Difference Between Gimbal and Stabilizer: A Quick Guide

I get it – choosing between a gimbal and a stabilizer can be confusing. I’ve faced the same challenge when trying to get smooth, professional-looking shots. Look, the difference between gimbal and stabilizer comes down to how they work. 

Gimbals use motors for precise stabilization, while stabilizers rely on manual balancing for simpler setups.

To give you a broader view, I’ll walk you through —

• The key differences in performance, price, and portability
• Pros and cons of each option
• How to choose the right one for your project

Let’s find the perfect fit for your filming style!

The Key Ideas

• Gimbal vs. Stabilizer Technology: Gimbals use motorized, electronic stabilization for smooth, dynamic shots, while stabilizers rely on manual balancing and are ideal for simpler, steady footage.
• Ease of Use & Versatility: Gimbals are easier to use with automatic controls, allowing for more camera angles and complex movements. Stabilizers require more manual adjustments but are quicker to set up for basic shots.
• Portability & Power: Gimbals are lighter, more compact, but need batteries. Stabilizers, though bulkier, require no power and are often more affordable.

What is Gimbal? 

A gimbal is a stabilization tool designed to keep your camera steady while you move. It works by balancing the camera across different axes, allowing you to capture smooth, shake-free footage or photos. 

Whether I’m panning across a scene or shifting directions, the gimbal helps keep the shots level. There are two main types of gimbals you can choose from manual and automatic. 

With a manual gimbal, I have to guide the camera with my hands the whole time. On the other hand, automatic gimbals use motors to stabilize the camera without me needing to control it constantly.

Some devices even offer a hybrid mode, which combines both manual and automatic features for more flexibility.

Pros of Using a Gimbal

• Helps achieve smooth, steady footage
• Ensures professional-looking results
• Allows flexible movement in shots
• Provides versatile use across projects
• Helps with longer, continuous shots

Cons of Using a Gimbal

• Adds weight to your setup
• Programming instructions may be needed for gimbals

Read Also: How to Calibrate Gimbal DJI Mini 3 Pro?

What is Stabilizer?

A camera stabilizer is a tool designed to keep your camera steady while shooting. It helps reduce unwanted movements that can make your photos or videos look shaky or unprofessional. 

By balancing out these movements, a stabilizer ensures smoother, more stable shots. They often use gimbals to keep the camera level, and you should choose one based on your camera’s weight for the best results. 

Whether you’re capturing stills or filming, a stabilizer can greatly improve the quality of your shots by providing more control and stability.

Pros of Using a Stabilizer

• Ensures smoother handheld footage
• Allows fluid movement during tracking
• Helps reduce micro jitters in post
• Provides professional, polished results
• Ensures consistent stabilization in action

Cons of Using a Stabilizer

• Can be expensive upfront
• Limits mobility in tight spaces

Difference Between Gimbal and Stabilizer: Comparison Chart

Deciding between a gimbal and a stabilizer for your videos can be hard. Look, you can use a gimbal and stabilizer for smooth footage. However, they have different strengths. 

So, here’s a table that helps you understand the differences and pick the right tool for your needs.

Features	Gimbal	Stabilizer
Technology	Motorized, electronic stabilization	Manual balancing
Ease of Use	Easy to use with automatic controls	Requires manual adjustments
Power Requirement	Requires battery power	No power needed
Weight	Generally lighter and more compact	Bulkier due to physical components
Price	Generally more expensive	More affordable
Performance	Superior for dynamic, complex shots	Ideal for simple, steady shots
Learning Curve	Lower due to automated features	Higher, requires practice
Versatility	Works with various camera angles and movements	Limited to basic movements
Portability	Compact, easy to carry	Larger, less portable
Maintenance	Requires periodic battery charging and updates	Minimal maintenance needed

In-Depth Difference Between Gimbal and Stabilizer

A gimbal and a stabilizer both help keep your shots smooth, but they work differently. So, I’ll show you a comprehensive difference between them to help you decide which one fits your shooting style better.

Size

Whether you’re selecting a gimbal to balance your camera or a stabilizer for smooth shots on the move, the right size can make all the difference. 

Size of Gimbal

You need to choose a gimbal that fits your camera perfectly. For instance, smaller ones like Insta360 Flow work great for my smartphone or compact camera.

However, I need a bigger one for my DSLR or mirrorless camera. So, it’s important to get the right size so everything feels balanced.

Size of Stabilizer 

The size of my stabilizer really matters, especially since I’m often on the move. Compact options, like monopods, are much easier to carry around. However, they don’t always give the same stability as bigger setups like tripods or shoulder rigs. 

Weight

Weight matters a lot when equipment for photography and videography

Weight of Gimbal

Gimbals’ weight is a critical factor. Heavier ones are steadier, but they can be a pain to carry around for a long time. On the contrary, lighter ones are easier to take with me, but they might not give smooth shots when I’m moving.

Weight of Stabilizer

The weight of the stabilizer matters too. If it’s heavier, it can help steady the camera by reducing small shakes. However, it might also make longer shots more exhausting. 

On the other hand, lighter stabilizers are easier to manage, though they might not offer as much stability. It’s especially true when you’re holding the camera by hand.

Price

Price is a key factor when selecting gimbals and stabilizers, with options ranging from budget-friendly to premium.

Price of Gimbal

Gimbals can cost anywhere from $30 to over $600, but I’ve found that I don’t need to spend a lot to get smooth, stable shots. There are plenty of affordable options out there. 

Take the Zhiyun Smooth 4 for instance. It provides great stabilization without putting a big dent in my wallet.

Price of Stabilizer

Stabilizers vary in price, typically starting at about $50 and going up to $300 or higher. The pricier ones often have extra features, like smoother movement or more flexibility. 

However, if you choose carefully, even a more affordable stabilizer can give you excellent results.

Compatibility

You must pick a gimbal or stabilizer that works with your camera. Many of these devices can be used with different camera models.

Compatibility of Gimbal

Most gimbals work with a wide range of camera models. However, I’ve noticed that some are made specifically for certain brands, like Panasonic or Nikon. So, before you buy one, always double-check that it’s fully compatible with your camera.

That way you can avoid any problems while you’re shooting.

Compatibility of Stabilizer

Not every stabilizer fits every camera setup. Some are made for specific camera models, while others are more versatile. So, you must double-check that the stabilizer works with your camera.

Versatility

Your equipment should be easy to use and versatile so you can work efficiently and creatively.

Gimbals’ Flexibility

Gimbals do more than just keep things steady. Many models can also mimic gear like sliders, jibs, or dollies! Now, that gives you more creative options when you’re filming. 

That’s why I like to think about which extra features might suit my filming style and help me get the shots I want.

Stabilizers’ Flexibilty

Stabilizers can be simple or more complicated to use. Some are easy to set up and need just a few tweaks. Meanwhile, more advanced rigs may take more time and practice to master. 

Therefore, you need to think about how much time you want to spend adjusting your gear when you’re on set.

User Experience and Practicality 

Choosing the right tool to keep your camera steady can make a huge difference in how smooth your video turns out. Reddit users have shared their thoughts on whether gimbals or traditional stabilizers are better for the job, sparking an ongoing debate.

• User Experience: Gimbals win in terms of automation and precision. However, stabilizers are more user-friendly and set up faster, making them great for smaller projects.
• Practicality: Gimbals work wonders for professional, action-packed filming, but might be overkill for simpler tasks. Stabilizers, while manual, are affordable and reliable for everyday shooting needs.

Gimbal vs Stabilizer: Which One You Should Choose?

If you want high-tech stabilization, a gimbal might be your go-to. Take the DJI RS2, for example. Many Reddit users love how it smooths out shaky footage and keeps things steady, even when you’re shooting handheld or moving.

Gimbals are perfect for those looking for smooth, cinematic shots. But, there’s a catch—some people feel they’re a bit over-the-top for smaller cameras or basic shoots.

On the other hand, if you’re after something simple and easy to use, traditional stabilizers could be just what you need. They might not be packed with tech, but many users appreciate how quick they are to set up and use in various situations. 

Stabilizers may not handle intense motion like gimbals, but for more static or slower-moving shots, they get the job done!

Pro Tp: I ditch the tripod wheels to prevent those annoying vibrations while filming.

Final Words

After weighing the difference between gimbal and stabilizer, I’ve realized it’s all about what you need for your shoot. 

Gimbals are perfect for complex, dynamic filming, giving you automated control and versatility. If you’re after more high-tech precision, go for a gimbal. 

Meanwhile, stabilizers keep things simple and steady for smaller, straightforward projects. So, if simplicity and affordability are what you need, a stabilizer gets the job done. Learn more about camera stability techniques in our guide on How to Stabilize Camera Without Gimbal?

FAQs

Should I turn off lens stabilization when using a gimbal?

Yes, you should turn off lens stabilization when using a gimbal. Image stabilization can conflict with the gimbal’s movement, causing unwanted results or improper compensation for shake. Disabling it ensures the gimbal can provide smoother, more consistent footage.

Do I need a gimbal for still photography?

For still photography, a gimbal isn’t necessary. Most photographers use tripods or monopods for stability. However, if you need both control and smooth motion, a gimbal head can be a useful addition, particularly for tracking or panning shots.

Is image stabilizer really necessary?

Image stabilization is helpful, especially when shooting at slower shutter speeds or in low light. While it won’t replace fast shutter speeds for moving subjects, it reduces camera shake, making it useful for clearer shots in tricky lighting or when handheld.