Using the best GoPro gimbal, you get incredibly smooth footage from your GoPro camera. You might not think you need a gimbal when recording with a GoPro, but they can make a huge difference. Many of the gimbals on this list are compatible with other devices, so they are great photography tools.
The Hohem iSteady Pro 4 is the best GoPro gimbal, easily taking the top spot on our list. It has a good range of shooting modes, is affordable, and is compatible with many types of cameras. This includes action cameras and GoPros.
What Is the Best GoPro Gimbal?
The best GoPro gimbal gives you ultra-smooth, professional-grade footage from your action camera. The Hohem iSteady Pro 4 is our top pick. But there are four other options you can choose from, including the Zhiyun Crane M3 Gimbal and the FeiyuTech G6 Max.
You might not think you need a gimbal stabilizer to record with a GoPro. GoPro cameras have one of the best camera stabilization systems, with Hypersmooth 6.0 stabilization. But this is designed for recording action footage when the camera is attached to a helmet or handlebars.
Getting smooth, shake-free footage can be difficult when recording handheld footage. That puts people off using the GoPro as a videography camera. It’s a shame because the 5.7K video from the GoPro HERO12 Black is so fantastic.
The GoPro’s cubic design lends itself to action photography. But it isn’t great for recording movie-style videos by hand. That’s why a gimbal’s ergonomic, handle-like design is so beneficial to those shooting with a GoPro.
The best GoPro gimbals also have specific shooting modes to help you capture certain types of shots. Some have modes like Pan Follow, 3D Inception, and Sports that improve your GoPro videography. Knowing a gimbal’s shooting modes will help you find the best one.
Here’s a quick rundown of all the best GoPro gimbals. We look at each gimbal in more detail in the section after. And we have a buyer’s guide at the end. If you need more information before you buy, we answer common questions about gimbals.
- Supports a wide range of action cameras
- iSteady 5.0 anti-shake tech and splashproof design
- Quick mounting with spring buckle release clip
- Remote control, one-click shooting
- Up to 14 hours of battery life
- Compact size with exceptional performance
- 3-second quick release for easy balancing
- Built-in touch screen and LED lighting
- Power Delivery Fast Charge for extended use
- Made of durable, lightweight, space-grade aluminum
- Advanced photo, video, zoom, and focus controls
- Splashproof and dustproof for action environments
- High-capacity 8-hour battery with reverse charging
- Works with GoPros, smartphones, DSLRs, mirrorless
- L-bracket included for low-angle shooting
- AI tracking and composition features
- 17-hour battery life from 3-hour charge
- Excellent range of shooting modes
- Small, lightweight, and foldable design
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 9-hour battery life
5 Best GoPro Gimbals
Now, we take a closer look at all the best GoPro gimbals. You can determine whether your action camera is compatible. We also list all the shooting modes of every gimbal. So you can decide which GoPro gimbal is right for you.
1. Hohem iSteady Pro 4
| Brand |
Brand
Hohem
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
GoPro HERO7 to HERO12, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360 ONE R, Sony XR0, SJCAM, Yi 4K
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
3-axis
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
11.8 x 5 x 2 inches / 30 x 12.7 x 5 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
0.8 lb / 365 g
|
| Battery Life |
Battery Life
14 hours
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
IPX4 water-resistant rating
|
| Best For |
Best For
Anyone shooting with a GoPro or action camera
|
The Hohem iSteady Pro 4 is the best GoPro gimbal. It’s a well-made piece of equipment. And it’s compatible with a wide range of action cameras. Along with its affordable price tag, it has excellent shooting modes for specialized video capture.
It’s compatible with all the latest GoPro models, going back to the Hero7. Considering we’re now at the HERO12, that gives you a lot of freedom. You don’t need the latest model to use this GoPro gimbal.
The iSteady Pro 4 is also compatible with other action cameras and GoPro alternatives. These include the DJI Osmo Action, Yi 4K, AEE, SJCAM, Insta360 One R, and Sony RX0.
The iSteady’s 5.0 Anti-shaking Algorithm provides excellent stabilization. It is almost on par with more expensive gimbals. The small motors are also very quiet, which is an obvious advantage.
The mini-USB port in the head lets you charge your camera while it’s mounted on the gimbal. Although, one downside of this model is that the head is fixed. That means you can’t swap it for a smartphone-compatible head.
It has plenty of features for creative filmmakers, including the various shooting modes listed below. It also has a 600-degree panning range. And the battery life gives you 14 hours of uninterrupted use when fully charged.
You connect the device to your camera using the impressive Hohem Gimset iOS/Android app. It manages the following functions:
- Gimbal Calibration
- Remote Control (shooting mode)
- Saved Profiles (a setup for action with a faster follow speed)
- Settings (sensitivity, speed)
- Firmware Update
- User Manual
There are also several buttons on the grip to help you control the camera:
- On/Off
- Mode Toggle
- Quick Lock
- Custom F1 and F2 Function (controlled via the app)
- Joystick
- Trigger (on the front)
Plus, there are various shooting modes:
- Pan Follow
- Pan and Tilt Follow
- All Lock
- All Follow
- 3D Inception
- Sports
- Time-Lapse
The Hohem iSteady Pro 4 is a must-have for filmmakers using a GoPro camera. It has all the shooting modes you need, letting you shoot any footage you need with your action camera. It’s easy to use and affordable. What’s not to like?
2. Zhiyun Crane M3 Gimbal
| Brand |
Brand
zhi yun
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
GoPros, action cameras, DSLR and mirrorless cameras, smartphones
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
3-axis
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
11 x 6.2 x 3 inches / 28 x 15.7 x 7.6 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
2.6 lb / 1.1 kg
|
| Battery Life |
Battery Life
8 hours
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Quick-release plate for cameras, mini tripod, Bluetooth connectivity
|
| Best For |
Best For
GoPro users, videographers who use a wide range of cameras
|
The Zhiyun Crane M3 Gimbal is a professional-quality, handheld, three-axis GoPro gimbal. It works with all GoPro HERO models, from HERO5 to HERO12. It is also compatible with mirrorless cameras from top brands like Sony, Fujifilm, and Canon.
The only problem with using it for your GoPro is that you need an adapter (included in the Combo package). And you get limited functionality. But the white, black, and red design looks and feels good. Plus, the build quality and stabilization are excellent.
Other features include a 1.2-inch color touchscreen. It has a built-in 800-lumen LED light with dual color temperatures and variable brightness. And the eight-hour battery life is another positive. This lets you work for long periods without stopping to recharge.
The built-in Bluetooth connectivity lets you operate the camera or GoPro without a wireless connection. But if you prefer, you can still control it through a cable.
You connect the device to your camera using the Zhiyun Play smartphone app (available for Android and iOS). There are also several buttons on the grip:
- Power Button
- Photo/Video Button
- M Button
- Fill Light Control Wheel
- Adjustment Wheel
- Joystick
- Trigger Button (on the front)
The touch screen is a little tricky to master. And sometimes, it can’t tell the difference between swipes and taps. But it’s divided into four convenient windows:
- Mode (to switch shooting modes)
- Balance (to see the balance status of the three gimbal axes)
- Info (to change language, see device information, or do a factory reset)
- Settings (including Auto Calibration, Parameter Settings, Parameter Reset, and Control Wheel customization)
There are also seven shooting modes:
- Pan Follow Mode
- Lock Mode
- POV Mode
- Follow Mode
- Go Mode
- Vortex Mode
- Portrait Mode
The Zhiyun Crane M3 is fantastic if you need a gimbal that works with different types of cameras. Its build quality is excellent, and it has pro-level functionality. And while it is a bit pricey, it will undoubtedly improve your video recording.
3. FeiyuTech G6 Max
| Brand |
Brand
FeiyuTech
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
GoPros, action cameras, compact cameras, DSLR and mirrorless cameras
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
3-axis
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
11.8 x 7.9 x 3.2 inches / 30 x 20 x 8 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
1.5 lb / 680 g
|
| Battery Life |
Battery Life
9 hours
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
GoPro and smartphone adapters, splashproof, USB-C charging
|
| Best For |
Best For
Videographers needing a full gimbal set with adapters and cables
|
The FeiyuTech G6 Max is a three-axis GoPro gimbal with adapters. It can mount action cameras, DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and smartphones. Its heavy payload is 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg).
It’s made of dustproof, splashproof aerospace aluminum alloy and silicone. So, the IPX4-level construction promises excellent durability.
It also boasts plenty of features, including an OLED screen and several shooting modes. It has a three-axis lock and reverse charging. And you get a healthy nine-hour battery life.
The gimbal also comes with a quick-release plate for quick installation. Mounting or dismounting your camera only takes a few sections.
It works with all GoPro models from HERO5 to HERO12 (although the GoPro HERO9 is “uncontrollable”). It also works with other action cameras, including the Sony RX0 and RX0 II, the SJ6 LEGEND, and the YI 4K.
You can connect the G6 Max to your camera by cable or Wi-Fi. And you can always use the Feiyu ON smartphone app. But the grip lets you control most operations with one hand, including shooting and mode selection. Here’s the list of buttons and dials:
- Power Button
- Magic Focus Ring 2.0 (for zoom, focus, 3-axis rotation, and adjusting ISO, white balance, exposure, etc.)
- Shutter Button
- Function Button
- Camera Mode
- Joystick
- Trigger (on the front)
The OLED screen displays the gimbal and camera settings. This includes the current working mode, power consumption, and Bluetooth status. It also controls vertical shooting, time-lapse, and the strength, hand wheel, and other camera settings.
There are various shooting modes:
- Pan Mode (default)
- All follow/POV
- Follow
- Lock
- Manual Lock
- Hunting
- Inception (four clockwise and anticlockwise options with real-time speed control via the joystick)
- Instant Vertical Photography
- Self-timer
- Motion Time-Lapse
The W6 Algorithm makes 10,000 calculations per second to stabilize the gimbal. That makes switching modes, panning, and general operation as smooth as silk with no video lag.
The FeiyuTech G6 Max isn’t exactly a budget option. But the price is justified thanks to the wide compatibility and the adapters that come with it. You have everything you need as soon as you get started.
4. Hohem iSteady MT2
| Brand |
Brand
Hohem
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
GoPro, action cameras, smartphones, compact cameras, DSLR and mirrorless cameras
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
3-axis
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
7 x 3.1 x 1.6 inches / 17.8 x 7.8 x 4 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
1.4 lb / 635 g
|
| Battery Life |
Battery Life
17 hours
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Quick-install system, L-bracket, AI tracking, fill light, mini tripod, Bluetooth connectivity
|
| Best For |
Best For
Experienced videographers who want a pro-level GoPro gimbal
|
The Hohem iSteady MT2 is a professional standard gimbal that delivers ultra-smooth footage. It’s compatible with GoPros and other action cameras. And you can also use it with compact cameras, full-frame DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras. You can even use it with smartphones.
Thanks to its excellent build quality, the gimbal feels sturdy when handheld. Its clever ergonomics make it comfortable to hold for long periods.
Installing GoPros and other cameras is quick and simple. This is because of the quick-release plate and the other mounts, which are straightforward. It also comes with an L-bracket, which helps you shoot at different angles. It lets you get low-angle shots without any trouble.
AI is everywhere these days. It’s even in this GoPro gimbal. It uses artificial intelligence to track subjects, keeping them perfectly framed as they move around the scene.
With built-in AI composition controls, you can use hand gestures to quickly frame your shots. You don’t have to spend ages making small adjustments to the camera and gimbal. The AI bot gives you a helping hand to speed up the process.
The built-in fill light is another fantastic feature. You can use standard white light. Or you can use red, green, and blue light to help you set the scene you want. It’s a handy feature that lets you work without additional lighting equipment.
These are the on-body controls on the iSteady MT2:
- Control wheel for focus, CCT/RGB switch, and roll control
- OLED display
- A-B motion buttons
- Trigger
The shooting modes are as follows:
- Pan Follow
- Pan & Tilt Follow
- All Lock
- All Follow
- Sport
- Inception mode
Professional videographers will love the Hohem iSteady MT2. You need a professional budget to buy one. But the quality and performance justify the price. And we haven’t even mentioned the 17-hour battery life. Professional filmmakers need to consider this GoPro camera gimbal.
5. INKEE Falcon Plus Gimbal
| Brand |
Brand
INKEE
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
GoPro HERO8 to HERO11
|
| Stabilization |
Stabilization
3-axis
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
2 x 5.9 x 9 inches / 5 x 15 x 22.9 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
0.66 lb / 300 g
|
| Battery Life |
Battery Life
9 hours
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Mini tripod, USB-C port, Bluetooth connectivity
|
| Best For |
Best For
Videographers looking for an affordable GoPro gimbal
|
The INKEE Falcon Plus is a compact three-axis GoPro gimbal. It supports the HERO8 to HERO11 and has a max payload of 7.1 oz (200 g). It works with GoPro HERO versions 5 to 12, DJI OSMO Action, Insta360 ONE R, and other similarly sized action cameras.
It’s not waterproof, which limits its appeal to extreme sports enthusiasts. But it’s small and lightweight with a foldable design.
The nine-hour battery life is a big positive. Reverse charging is another helpful feature. Plus, the quick and easy installation makes it easy for even inexperienced users.
You connect the gimbal to your camera using the Falcon app. But the app is limited compared to other companion apps, which is a shame.
The Falcon Plus‘s grip is small, so users with larger hands might find it uncomfortable if used for long periods. But the layout of the buttons is good:
- On/Off and Power Display Button
- Mode Button
- Time-Lapse Button
- REC Button
- Shoot Button
- Joystick Trigger (on the front)
There are various shooting modes:
- Pan Following
- Pan/Tilt Following
- Horizontal Lock
- Global Lock
- First Person View
- 3-axis All Following
- Vertical Mode
- Flashlight Mode
- Lock Mode
The Falcon Plus is a portable gimbal. It offers smooth footage, especially when paired with GoPro’s Hypersmooth stabilization. It’s also the only gimbal that works with GoPro Media Mod for better audio.
FAQs About the Best GoPro Gimbals
Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions about GoPro gimbals.
What Are Gimbals Used For?
Gimbals stabilize GoPro cameras. They make video footage look silky, smooth, and professional rather than jittery and jerky. They use quiet, brushless motors to dampen or prevent rotation. This is usually found in all three axes—pan, tilt, and roll.
There are different shooting modes. So you can choose how the camera moves. A typical function might be to use Lock Mode for tracking and keeping a runner in the same position in the frame. There are also other modes to make your video look more cinematic or disorienting.
How Do I Know If I Need a Gimbal?
The simple answer is to look at your GoPro camera footage. Does it look jerky and unstable due to camera shake? Does it look “boring” without any variety? Do you always shoot from the same point of view? If so, a gimbal will smooth your footage and offer a few neat tricks to spice it up!
GoPro cameras generally have wide-angle lenses. This means they don’t need as much stabilization as longer telephoto lenses used in photography. You also might like the raw, amateurish Blair Witch Project look of handheld, first-person video.
But it’s nice to have the option of a gimbal that produces silky-smooth footage if you need it. And some of the shooting modes available are a lot of fun to play around with.
What Should I Look For in a Gimbal?
The most important factor is compatibility. Not every gimbal works with every GoPro model, let alone other action cameras, smartphones, mirrorless cameras, or DSLRs.
That means you must determine which models are supported and what the payload is. Does the gimbal support the weight of your camera? It’s also best to see whether you need to buy any extra cables or camera accessories for the versatility you’re after.
After you’ve found a gimbal that works with your camera, it’s best to check the image stabilization. There’s no point buying a gimbal if it doesn’t do the job properly!
At a minimum, you should make sure it has three-axis stabilization. But it’s also best to look at how smooth you think your footage will be. And how responsive is the gimbal in tracking fast-moving subjects like athletes or animals?
It’s also important to consider the build quality, usability, and features. The gimbal should be built to last, but it should also be easy and comfortable to use for long periods. Finally, you want a few shooting modes to add some pizzazz to your videos!
Can You Use Gimbals to Take Pictures?
Yes, most gimbals let you take still photographs rather than videos. But it depends on the particular model and accompanying smartphone app. You might need to use the camera’s menu system and controls if you can’t do it via the gimbal or app.
Are Gimbals Waterproof?
Unfortunately, most are not. That means you should decide beforehand where and when you’ll use your action camera. If you’re unlikely to shoot video at the seaside or in bad weather, just about any gimbal will do.
But if you want an all-weather model, you must check the specifications carefully for the IPX rating. Here are the most common ones:
- IPX4 gimbals are splashproof or water-resistant.
- IPX7 gimbals can be submerged at a depth of one meter for half an hour. But they may still be damaged by a spray of water.
- IPX8 gimbals can be submerged deeper than one meter (depending on the manufacturer’s instructions). But may still be damaged by a spray of water.
What Is Pan, Tilt, and Roll in a Gimbal?
Pan, tilt, and roll are different ways of turning the camera around a particular gimbal axis:
- Pan: Turns the camera side to side around an imaginary vertical axis. This keeps the camera horizontal.
- Tilt: Points the camera up and down. This turns it around an imaginary horizontal axis without moving it from side to side.
- Roll: Spins the camera around an imaginary horizontal axis. This runs through the length of the lens so the horizon appears to tilt or even turn upside-down.
What Are the Different Shooting Modes in a Gimbal?
A gimbal offers four basic shooting modes that offer damped movement in certain directions:
- Follow (Full Follow) Mode: This mode lets the gimbal tilt up and down and pan from side to side, but it won’t let it roll. It’s useful when you want to be free to point the camera in any direction.
- Pan Follow Mode: This lets the camera turn left and right but not tilt up and down or roll from side to side. It’s suitable for “establishing shots” of a location or tracking a subject moving horizontally, like a runner or cyclist.
- Lock Mode: This is designed to track subjects. This keeps them in the same position in the frame. As a result, you can’t pan, tilt or roll.
- POV (Roll Rollow) Mode: POV stands for “point of view.” This lets the camera turn through all three different axes. The idea is to represent the point of view of an observer with full freedom to pan, tilt, and roll.
Manufacturers have also developed a few more specialized modes:
- Inception Mode: Makes the camera do a barrel roll through 180 or 360 degrees, either clockwise or anticlockwise.
- Selfie Mode: Turns the camera through 180 degrees so you can shoot a video of yourself.
- Push Mode: This lets you physically “push” the camera around to protect the gimbal’s motors.
- Underslung Mode: This mode lets you rearrange the handle to carry it low to the ground like a briefcase.
- Inverted Mode: This lets you flip the gimbal upside down so you can film from close to the ground.
- Sports Mode: Increases gimbal responsiveness when tracking fast-moving subjects like athletes.
Conclusion: The Best GoPro Gimbals
While GoPros have excellent built-in stabilization, using the best GoPro gimbal can take your footage to new levels. With specialist shooting modes and helpful features, gimbals make it easier to shoot pro-level videos with a GoPro camera.
In our opinion, the Hohem iSteady Pro 4 is the best GoPro gimbal. It’s user-friendly, affordable, has a decent collection of shooting modes, and is splash-resistant. Plus, it has a 14-hour battery life. It’s the perfect accessory if you want a gimbal for your GoPro camera.
