10 Best Phone Stabilizers in the Philippines 2022 | DJI, Zhiyun, and More

A phone stabilizer, more commonly known as a gimbal, gives the user the freedom to shoot using a handheld recorder without fear of camera shake or vibrations, which can translate to the output video. These stabilizers are powered by brushless motors, keeping the camera parallel to the ground at all times, as the operator moves it.

The motors prevent any sudden movements, so you can produce smooth videos even if you are moving quickly. As mentioned earlier, most phones offer in-body stabilization but gimbals still produce smooth, buttery shots that feel like the camera is gliding through the air. 

This makes the gimbal a necessary accessory for vloggers and content creators when they shoot their videos, especially when outdoors.

Phone stabilizers have different stabilization technology, attachment options, accessories, and phone compatibility. Every stabilizer differs in user interface and construction, so how it can be handled and how it lasts throughout the day also matter. Let’s see below how all of these factors add up.

Nothing is more satisfying when your gimbal moves the way you want it to. This is important because the way you handle the phone stabilizer will affect the resulting video. Thus, the controls of a gimbal should be easy to follow and navigate.

The experience wouldn’t be a fun one if your phone stabilizer is a hassle to handle. It should be ergonomic and easy to set up. A tutorial should be able to explain most of the important features and controls. Once linked to your phone, it should elevate your phone's camera capabilities, with buttons that are easy to press and well-labeled.

Some gimbals also require a phone case and only works with certain models of phones. Others have a magnetic attachment that makes it suitable for any phone; this also makes it quite a breeze to detach.

Meanwhile, traveling with your phone stabilizer will be a less little tricky if it can be easily folded and comes with a case to protect them while in transit. 

Some gimbals offer interchangeable attachment options, making you switch among action cameras, DSLR, and phones. This is perfect for professional videographers who want to use their gimbal on their DLSR or mirrorless cameras. If that matters to you, check if the gimbal you’re planning to buy offers that option.  

If you are a techie and you need to have the best possible engineering design in your equipment, you might consider the stabilization technology of your gimbal. Stabilization is affected by the number of brushless motors used by the gimbal. Having 3 motors is the standard, but if your budget is tight, you might want to look at double and single-axis gimbals if it fits your need.

If you’re going for the best stabilization, more brushless motors for the head of your gimbal yields better results. The number of motors working in conjunction keeps the head unit of the stabilizer in alignment no matter what the movement. Side-to-side and up-and-down movements are nullified, keeping your videos steady and free of motion blur. Most of the gimbals available on the market sport this technology.

This type of stabilization is commonly found in cheaper gimbals as it only provides motors on two axes. What this means is that the head unit where the phone is attached can counteract sideways movement, but will have difficulty in smoothing out vibrations and movements that are directed up and down. 

Gimbals that have a single brushless motor can keep movement stable on only one axis. Most uses of single-axis gimbals are to keep the camera level to the ground. However, you need to keep your movement to a minimum as walking and running will induce motion blur to your videos. If you go this route, get one if you plan on shooting landscape and panoramic videos. 

Most phone stabilizer models come with an app that allows users to access all the features that come with the gimbal, especially its motors. Some brands have better apps than others, so do your research. Remember that the app should provide seamless control and view through your phone. Check for reviews and user comments to see if the app goes well with the gimbal.

Not only will it make your videos better, but it also improves the overall experience while filming. Having a well-paired app for your gimbal will also get your creative juices flowing due to the different shooting modes and possibilities that it offers.

If you plan on using the gimbal for an extended time, it is good to take note of its weight. Your stabilizer may feel light now, but prolonged usage will add up and make your arms tired from carrying that seemingly negligible weight. Heavier stabilizers are harder to keep steady but are more stable, while lighter ones will have more incidents of motion blur.

Different models of gimbals sport different battery life capacities. If your content consists of a long shot, it might be best to get a larger battery capacity to cover all bases. For your travel vlogging, generous battery life of about 12 hours is enough, just bring a power bank to keep it topped up. Some gimbals can charge while in use but take note that this will add weight while in use.

If you require more stability, some phone stabilizers have built-in tripod legs or base, which you can use for off-hand shooting. You can use this for timelapse or have it track you as you move around.

Other models offer a screw-on feature that you can attach to your existing tripod. Both have their merits and disadvantages, so weigh your options and choose what works best with your video-taking needs.

The use of accessories can have additional functionality to your phone stabilizer. If you prefer a full-blown recording set up with your phone, you can attach a shotgun microphone and additional lights for better video quality. You may need to check if your gimbal supports such attachments. This is great if you plan on using phones as your main equipment for shooting video content.

After learning all the factors you need to consider in choosing the right phone stabilizer, it is now time to purchase! Having a hard time choosing? Don't worry as we have scoured the internet for the top phone stabilizers in the Philippines. Have a look at them below!

**Prices may vary depending on the website and their campaign period**

Having a gimbal offers you different techniques, which can make your videos look like it was shot by a production house. Below are some of the basic techniques from Premium Beat that you can start applying to your videos.

To do a steadicam tracking shot, use a gimbal and follow your subject, making sure that your hand doesn’t experience any sudden movement. Keep the subject at the center of the frame and avoid unnecessary bobbing while following your subject.

For those shots where the camera pans or tilts, a tripod is usually needed. However, the stabilization offered by a gimbal can replicate a tripod. If your subject is moving, plant your body and point your phone in their direction, making sure they are in frame. For best results, move your body with the gimbal.

Still shots can be used to draw your audience in and have them a look at the surrounding environment in your video. To perform this, hold your phone stabilizer at the most stable position that you can. Start recording and try to minimize your movement due to breathing for maximum effect and stability.

It is an awesome shot when a camera moves from the bottom then finishes over the scene. Though you might not have a crane, you can replicate its movement through a gimbal. Sit down and start recording, making sure your hands are steady. Slowly stand up, taking care to have the subject that you want in focus. Extend your hand and if you want additional height, step on a chair!

A slider movement shot, which is the most common shot taken through a gimbal, gives depth and substance to the video. To perform this shot, keep the subject on one side of the frame. Walk slowly in one direction and slowly pan the gimbal to keep the subject at the same position of the frame. This is great if you have and beautiful backdrop to focus on.

Shooting amazing photos and videos has never been easier. Your skill and talent can only take you so far if you have entry-level equipment. Arm yourselves with the best camera gear that can enhance the creativity that you already have. Check out some of our top picks below to help you with your content creation journey.

A phone stabilizer is a great investment if you plan on taking your videography seriously. It's a nice step towards upgrading your gear when you're not yet ready to transition into full-featured cameras. With it, you can maximize the recording capability of your phone to replicate the footage or shots made by a professional production house. 

It offers new ways to shoot- hiking your creativity up a notch. Remember to consider its stabilization technology, attachment options, accessories, and phone compatibility for the best results. Whatever you choose, know that the perfect gimbal will make you feel that you’re creating something that the world will enjoy.

Author: Richard Martin

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