When it comes to capturing smooth, professional-quality footage, gimbals are essential tools for videographers and content creators. With the rise of AI tracking gimbals, these devices have become more intuitive and powerful, making it easier to create stable and dynamic shots. However, choosing the right gimbal isn’t just about picking the one with the best specs—it’s about finding the one that fits your specific needs.
In this article, we’ll compare six leading AI tracking gimbals: the iSteady V3, Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI, Hohem M6, MT2, Feiyutech Scorp Mini 2, and Scorp 2. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and which one is best for you will depend on how you intend to use it. Let’s dive into the key features that set them apart and help you decide which gimbal suits your style of filming.
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Movement flexibility is one of the most important considerations when selecting a gimbal. After all, smooth movement is the primary reason for using one. Some gimbals, like the iSteady V3, have significant restrictions. While it’s a compact, portable gimbal, its design limits certain types of shots, particularly when transitioning from ground-level to higher angles. You can achieve these shots, but only by holding the gimbal awkwardly or flipping it upside down, which often results in unnatural footage. It’s a tradeoff for the convenience of a small, portable device.
On the other hand, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI and Hohem M6 provide far more freedom of movement. These gimbals allow you to execute a wider variety of shots effortlessly, without compromising stability. Both gimbals excel at fluid motion, making them great options for those who need versatility in their filming.
The Feiyutech Scorp Mini 2 and Scorp 2, which are designed for more professional use, offer unrestricted movement as well. These hybrid gimbals are capable of handling both smartphones and cameras, making them versatile tools for creators who need flexibility. If your filming often involves capturing dynamic, complex shots, these professional-grade gimbals will give you the flexibility you need.
Stabilization is what truly makes or breaks a gimbal. After all, the main reason to use one is to achieve smooth, stable footage. When it comes to smartphone gimbals, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI really shines. It offers superior stabilization, even better than the Hohem M6. Zhiyun has a well-established reputation for producing top-quality gimbals, and the 5S AI is no exception. Whether you’re shooting vlogs or professional-level content, the stabilization on this gimbal ensures crisp, smooth footage every time.
The Feiyutech Scorp Mini 2, though, is the standout when it comes to hybrid gimbals. It’s designed to stabilize both smartphones and cameras, making it a versatile tool for anyone who films with multiple devices. Whether you’re using a DSLR or a smartphone, the Scorp Mini 2 delivers reliable stabilization, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals.
For those who prioritize stabilization above all else, especially for multi-device use, the Scorp Mini 2offers the best performance. That said, if you’re strictly using a smartphone, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI will likely meet all your stabilization needs.
Choosing the right gimbal largely depends on your filming style. If you’re primarily working with smartphones, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI and Hohem M6 are excellent choices. Both handle smartphones exceptionally well and provide excellent stabilization without restricting movement. These gimbals are particularly well-suited for vloggers, YouTubers, and anyone who primarily shoots mobile content.
For hybrid filmmakers who work with both smartphones and cameras, the Feiyutech Scorp Mini 2 is a more professional option. Its ability to handle both device types makes it ideal for those who need flexibility. Whether you’re shooting with a DSLR one day and a smartphone the next, the Scorp Mini 2 has you covered.
Then there’s the Feiyutech Scorp 2, a larger gimbal that offers a higher payload capacity, making it perfect for heavier setups. If you’re using bigger cameras or heavier lenses, the Scorp 2 is built to handle the load without compromising on stabilization. It’s ideal for professional filmmakers who require a gimbal that can handle more robust equipment.
AI tracking is one of the key features that set these gimbals apart from traditional models. All six gimbals in this comparison offer some form of AI tracking, but how they execute this feature differs.
The iSteady V3, for example, has a detachable control unit that doubles as a remote. This allows you to make adjustments remotely, which is especially useful if you’re filming yourself or need to change the framing without manually interacting with the gimbal. This remote control is a nice touch for those who need a bit more control over their shots without being tethered to the device.
The Hohem M6 and MT2 also offer remote control options, giving users the ability to fine-tune their framing and positioning on the go. This feature is particularly helpful for vloggers and solo filmmakers who need to make adjustments without constantly moving back and forth between the camera and the filming area.
AI tracking on the Feiyutech Scorp Mini 2 and Scorp 2 is equally impressive, especially when working with larger setups. Both gimbals excel at keeping the subject in frame, even in dynamic environments, making them reliable tools for action shots or fast-moving scenes.
Each gimbal comes with unique features that make it suitable for different types of filmmakers. The iSteady V3, for instance, is incredibly portable and easy to pack for travel. Its compact design makes it convenient for on-the-go shooting, though it comes with the tradeoff of limited movement capabilities.
For smartphone users who need a gimbal that can handle heavier payloads, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI and Hohem M6 stand out. Both gimbals can support not only smartphones but also additional gear like filters and lenses, offering more versatility for creators who like to experiment with different setups.
Meanwhile, the Scorp 2 and Scorp Mini 2 are geared more towards professional filmmakers who need a tool that can handle a variety of equipment. The Scorp 2 is particularly well-suited for heavier cameras, while the Scorp Mini 2 is perfect for lighter, more compact setups.
Another area where these gimbals differ is in how they handle manual adjustments and third-party apps. Some users prefer to control aspects like motor speed and joystick sensitivity through the gimbal’s app, while others use third-party camera apps to take full control of their shots.
Most of the gimbals in this comparison can be paired with third-party apps, allowing users to fine-tune their settings to match their preferences. This is particularly useful for more experienced filmmakers who want precise control over their shots.
The Feiyutech Scorp Mini 2 stands out here for its ability to control camera settings directly from the gimbal’s small LCD screen. While it may not offer the same level of manual control as the Scorp 2, it still provides enough flexibility for most filmmakers.
Ultimately, the best gimbal for you depends on your specific needs and the type of content you create. For those focused on smartphone filmmaking, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI and Hohem M6 are excellent choices, offering great stabilization and flexibility without the bulk of larger gimbals. If you work with both cameras and smartphones, the Feiyutech Scorp Mini 2 provides the best of both worlds, with outstanding stabilization and support for multiple devices.
For professional filmmakers using heavier cameras, the Feiyutech Scorp 2 is a powerful tool that offers more payload capacity and flexibility, making it ideal for more demanding projects. Meanwhile, the iSteady V3 offers a budget-friendly, portable option for casual filmmakers who prioritize convenience over advanced features.
No matter which gimbal you choose, all of these models offer great stabilization and AI tracking, ensuring smooth footage every time. Your choice ultimately comes down to what type of filming you do and what features are most important to you.
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