In 2025, smartphone videography continues to grow, and having a reliable gimbal is essential for capturing smooth, professional-quality footage. With many gimbals now available under $150, content creators no longer need to break the bank to stabilize their videos. These budget-friendly gimbals offer 3-axis stabilization, intelligent tracking, and versatile shooting modes, making them perfect for vloggers, travelers, and casual filmmakers. This guide highlights the best gimbals under $150, combining portability, battery life, and smart features to elevate your mobile videography.
1. DJI Osmo Mobile SE
DJI Osmo Mobile SE, 3-Axis Phone Gimbal, Portable and Foldable, Gimbal Stabilizer for iphone, Andriod, ShotGuides, ActiveTrack 6.0, Vlogging Stabilizer for...
The DJI Osmo Mobile SE is a compact, foldable 3-axis smartphone gimbal designed for smooth, professional-quality video stabilization. Compatible with most iPhone and Android devices weighing 170-290g, it features the latest ActiveTrack 6.0 technology for precise subject tracking, even in crowded or fast-moving scenes. Its magnetic quick-release phone clamp allows easy attachment and detachment, while the foldable design enhances portability for travel and vlogging. With up to 8 hours of battery life and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, it supports creative shooting modes and remote control via the DJI Mimo app and Apple Watch integration, making it ideal for content creators on the go.
Key Features:
- 3-axis stabilization with real-time compensation
- ActiveTrack 6.0 for reliable subject tracking
- Quick-release magnetic phone clamp
- Foldable and portable design
- Up to 8 hours operating time
- Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity
- Compatible with phones 6.9-10mm thick and 67-84mm wide
- Remote control via DJI Mimo app and Apple Watch
Pros:
- Smooth and stable footage even during movement
- Easy and fast phone mounting/detachment
- Compact and lightweight for portability
- Long battery life for extended shooting sessions
- Advanced tracking with ActiveTrack 6.0
Cons:
- Limited to smartphones within specific size and weight range
- Operating time may vary under heavy use
- Some users report occasional app connectivity issues
Why We Picked It:
The DJI Osmo Mobile SE stands out as a budget-friendly yet feature-rich gimbal that delivers professional stabilization and intelligent tracking for smartphone videographers. Its foldable design and magnetic clamp make it exceptionally user-friendly, while the integration with DJI’s apps and accessories offers creative flexibility, making it one of the best gimbals under $150 in 2025.
2. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus
hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer, 3-Axis Phone Gimbal w/Fill Light, 360° Infinite Rotation, Max Payload 280g, Android and Phone...
The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit is a versatile 3-axis smartphone gimbal designed for smooth, professional-quality video stabilization. It supports smartphones up to 280g and features the advanced iSteady 7.0 anti-shake algorithm for ultra-smooth footage from all angles. The kit includes a magnetic LED fill light with adjustable brightness and color temperature, perfect for low-light shooting. With 600° pan rotation, multiple creative modes like Inception and DollyZoom, and up to 13 hours of battery life, this gimbal is ideal for vloggers, content creators, and casual filmmakers seeking reliable, budget-friendly stabilization.
Key Features:
- iSteady 7.0 anti-shake algorithm with orthogonal 3-axis stabilization
- 600° pan, 320° tilt and roll rotation for dynamic shooting
- Magnetic LED fill light with 10 brightness levels and 3 color temperatures (3000K, 5500K, 6500K)
- Up to 13 hours battery life with quick 2-hour charging
- Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity with Hohem Joy app for face/object tracking, timelapse, and more
- Quick manual switch between landscape and portrait modes
- Payload capacity: up to 280g (supports most smartphones)
- Includes mini tripod and USB-C charging cable
Pros:
- Excellent stabilization with advanced iSteady 7.0 technology
- Long battery life suitable for extended shoots
- Versatile magnetic fill light enhances low-light filming
- Multiple creative shooting modes via app
- Lightweight and portable design
Cons:
- Fill light battery lasts about 1 hour per charge
- Some users report occasional app connectivity issues
- Charging cable for iOS devices (USB-C to Lightning) not included
Why We Picked It:
The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit stands out for combining powerful stabilization technology with a useful magnetic fill light, making it a comprehensive budget-friendly gimbal solution for creators who want professional-level video quality without spending over $150.
3. Hohem iSteady Pro 4 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer
3 Axis Gimbal Stabilizer for Gopro Hero 13/12/11/10/9, Handheld Stabilizer for Gopro for Video Recording, IPX4 Waterproof, Bluetooth Control, Compatible with...
The Hohem iSteady Pro 4 is a versatile 3-axis gimbal stabilizer designed specifically for GoPro Hero 5 through 13 and other similar-sized action cameras like DJI Osmo Action and Insta360 ONE R. Weighing just 365g, it offers excellent stabilization with its advanced iSteady 5.0 technology, ensuring smooth, shake-free footage even during high-intensity activities like skateboarding or skiing. Its IPX4 splash-proof rating means it can handle water splashes, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. With a powerful 3600mAh battery, it delivers up to 14 hours of continuous use and supports Bluetooth control for easy operation. The quick-release clip design simplifies mounting without screws, perfect for on-the-go filming.
Key Features:
- 3-axis brushless motor stabilization (pan: 600°, tilt: 320°, roll: 320°)
- IPX4 splash-proof design for outdoor use
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 5-13, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360 ONE R, Sony RX0
- 14-hour battery life with 3600mAh capacity
- Quick-release clip with spring buckle for fast mounting
- Bluetooth wireless control via Hohem app
- Operating temperature: -10°C to 45°C
Pros:
- Excellent stabilization with iSteady 5.0 tech
- Long battery life suitable for extended shoots
- Splash-proof for versatile outdoor use
- Quick and easy camera mounting system
- Compatible with a wide range of action cameras
Cons:
- Does not support no-load startup (must have camera mounted before powering on)
- Some users report occasional app connectivity issues
Why We Picked It:
The Hohem iSteady Pro 4 stands out as the best budget-friendly 3-axis gimbal for GoPro and other action cameras in 2025. It combines long battery life, robust stabilization, and weather resistance at a price point unmatched by competitors. Its ease of use and broad compatibility make it an excellent choice for both amateur and experienced filmmakers looking to capture smooth, professional-quality footage without overspending.
4. Zhiyun Smooth 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 is a professional 3-axis smartphone gimbal designed to deliver smooth and stable video footage for devices like the iPhone 14 Pro Max, 13 Mini, 12, and earlier models. It features advanced face and object tracking, timelapse capabilities, and an ergonomic design for comfortable use during extended shoots. This gimbal is ideal for vloggers, content creators, and filmmakers seeking high-quality stabilization without a steep learning curve. Its intuitive controls and robust motors ensure fluid motion capture, making it a versatile tool for creative video projects.
Key Features:
- 3-axis stabilization for smooth footage
- Face and object tracking technology
- Timelapse and motion-lapse modes
- Compatible with a wide range of smartphones including iPhone 14 Pro Max and earlier
- Ergonomic design for comfortable handling
- Responsive joystick and control panel
Pros:
- Reliable stabilization for professional-quality videos
- Advanced tracking features enhance creative shooting
- Easy to use with intuitive controls
- Compatible with most modern smartphones
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer for extended shoots
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
Why We Picked It:
The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 stands out for combining professional-grade stabilization and advanced tracking features at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for creators who want high-quality results without investing in premium models.
5. AOCHUAN Smart XE 3-Axis Gimbal
This 3-axis foldable smartphone gimbal stabilizer is designed for iPhone and Android users who want professional-grade video stabilization on the go. It features a precise focus wheel, allowing smooth manual focus adjustments ideal for TikTok, YouTube, and vlog creators. Its compact and foldable design makes it ultra-portable for travel and easy storage. Compatible with iPhone 12 through 16 Pro Max and most Android smartphones, it ensures buttery-smooth footage with 3-axis motorized stabilization, active object tracking, and multiple shooting modes like time-lapse and panorama. The long-lasting battery supports extended shooting sessions, making it perfect for content creators seeking creative, stabilized videos.
Key Features:
- 3-axis motorized stabilization for ultra-smooth footage
- Foldable and lightweight design for easy portability
- Manual focus wheel for precise control
- Compatibility: iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 Pro Max & Android smartphones
- Multiple shooting modes: time-lapse, panorama, motion tracking
- Long battery life supporting hours of continuous use
- Intuitive companion app with creative shooting tools
- Supports vertical/horizontal shooting and selfie mode
Pros:
- Excellent stabilization and smooth footage
- Long battery life suitable for extended shoots
- Versatile fill light enhances low-light recording
- Precise focus and zoom controls improve creative filming
- Compact and foldable for easy transport
Cons:
- Some users report a learning curve with advanced modes
- Requires regular charging for long shoots
- Heavier than basic handheld stabilizers
Why We Picked It:
This gimbal stands out for combining professional 3-axis stabilization with a foldable design and manual focus wheel, ideal for vloggers, TikTokers, and YouTube creators who want creative control and portability. Its broad compatibility and feature-rich app make it a versatile choice for high-quality smartphone videography in 2025
6. 3-Axis Phone Gimbal with Magnetic AI Active Tracker
This versatile 3-axis phone gimbal is designed for smartphone users seeking smooth, professional-quality video stabilization on a budget. It features a magnetic phone mount for quick attachment and detachment, AI-powered Active Tracking to keep your subject perfectly framed, and an integrated fill light ideal for low-light vlogging or TikTok videos. Compatible with both Android and iPhone devices, this gimbal supports various shooting modes including timelapse and panorama. Lightweight and portable, it’s perfect for content creators, vloggers, and casual users wanting steady footage without complex setups.
Key Features:
- 3-axis stabilization for smooth video
- Magnetic phone mount for easy setup
- AI Active Tracking for precise subject follow
- Built-in adjustable fill light for low-light shooting
- Compatible with Android and iPhone
- Multiple shooting modes (timelapse, panorama)
- Lightweight and portable design
Pros:
- Easy and fast phone mounting with magnetic system
- Effective AI tracking improves video quality
- Fill light enhances video in dim environments
- Good battery life for extended shooting sessions
- User-friendly for beginners and casual vloggers
Cons:
- Fill light brightness limited compared to professional lights
- May have occasional app connectivity issues on some Android models
Why We Picked It:
This gimbal stands out in the under-$150 category by combining advanced AI tracking and a useful fill light, features often missing in budget stabilizers. Its magnetic mount simplifies setup, making it ideal for creators who want quick, smooth, and well-lit smartphone videos without spending a fortune.
7. DJI OM 4 SE
The DJI OM 4 SE is a highly portable and foldable 3-axis smartphone gimbal designed to elevate your mobile videography. Featuring a magnetic phone mount, it allows for quick and secure attachment and detachment of your phone. The gimbal offers smooth stabilization, ActiveTrack 3.0 for precise subject tracking, and a variety of creative shooting modes like timelapse and panorama. With up to 15 hours of battery life, it’s perfect for vloggers, content creators, and casual users who want professional-quality footage on the go.
Key Features:
- 3-axis stabilization for smooth video
- Magnetic phone mount for easy setup
- ActiveTrack 3.0 for accurate subject tracking
- Foldable and lightweight design for portability
- Up to 15 hours of battery life
- Multiple creative shooting modes (timelapse, panorama, slow motion)
Pros:
- Quick and secure magnetic phone attachment
- Long battery life suitable for extended shoots
- User-friendly app with intelligent tracking
- Compact and foldable for easy transport
Cons:
- Slightly pricier than some budget models
- Limited compatibility with very large or heavy phones
Why We Picked It:
The DJI OM 4 SE combines premium stabilization technology with user-friendly features and portability, making it a top choice for anyone seeking professional-quality smartphone video stabilization under $150 (refurbished or discounted models). Its magnetic design and robust battery life set it apart in this price segment.
How to Choose the Best Gimbal Under $150
When selecting a gimbal in this price range, consider these factors to get the best value and performance:
- Compatibility: Ensure the gimbal supports your smartphone’s size, weight, and operating system (iOS/Android).
- Stabilization: Look for 3-axis stabilization to eliminate shakes and jitters for smooth footage.
- Battery Life: Longer battery life (8+ hours) allows for extended shooting sessions without frequent recharging.
- Tracking Features: AI-powered face or object tracking helps keep your subject in frame effortlessly.
- Portability and Design: Foldable and lightweight designs enhance ease of transport and use on the go.
- Additional Features: Built-in fill lights, extension rods, quick-release clamps, and app integration add creative flexibility.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive controls and user-friendly apps reduce the learning curve for beginners.
Choosing the best gimbal under $150 in 2025 is about balancing features, ease of use, and portability. The models reviewed here prove that affordable gimbals can deliver professional-level stabilization and smart tracking capabilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced content creator, these gimbals provide excellent value, enabling you to capture smooth, cinematic videos with your smartphone or action camera. Investing in one of these budget-friendly stabilizers will significantly enhance your video quality and creative possibilities without stretching your budget.