Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out shooting your own GoPro videos, then a 3 Axis Gimbal is definitely something that you should be looking at when you want to film silky smooth footage, without the annoying camera shakes.

With all of the handheld GoPro gimbals available today, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to compare and decide between the various models. Battery life, features, and prices can vary a lot, and some gopro gimbals are not worth buying.

Good news for you, we’re here to make this decision as easy as possible for you!

On this page, you can find a Comparison & Buying guide for the best GoPro gimbals available on the market today. We reviewed most brands and products to help you make a smart purchase decision.

Update: GoPro Hero 8 is upon us, and with that I have updated the below list to accommodate the new GoPro Hero 8. Since the footprint has not changed since the GoPro Hero 7, you can still use some of the same Gimbals. The only really difference is the GoPro Hero 8 weighs 14Oz less and will work gimbals motors less. I will mark which gimbals no longer work.

Last update 10/24/2019

1 – Gopro Karma Grip – Official Accessory (No Gopro 8)

You can buy the Official GoPro Karma Grip on Amazon , the first and best in class go-pro gimbal directly from the company that created the hero action cameras will help you to take crystal clear pictures and footage so that you never need to worry about those shaky videos.

The Karma Grip Gimbal is an official GoPro product, it is very well made and offers a great support and warranty should you need to replace the device or any parts.

The Karma Grip is smaller, and the battery life is not very long: 2-3 hours maximum.

If you choose this one, it will be a good idea to pick up a few spare batteries so that you can quickly change them while you are out shooting.

Specifications:

Tilt Working Angle:-90 ~ 180° (vertical handheld)

Roll Working Angle: -45°~ +45°

Heading Working Angle (vertical handheld): -135 °~ +135°

Heading Working Angle (leveled handheld): -45°~ +45°

Weight: 12.7oz /361g

What’s in the box:

3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Camera Stabilizer *1

18350 LIPO Battery *2

Battery Charger * 1

Micro USB Cable *1

Charging Cable for go pro *1

Velcro Strap *1

Warranty Card *1

Manual *1

Comparability

Gopro Hero 4, 5, 6, 7. (All models with the exception of larger model.

GoPro hero 8 is NOT supported. Please checkout the Evo GP-Pro For that.

1 – EVO GP-PRO 3 Axis GoPro Gimbal with 3.5mm AV Output

If you are on the lookout for the absolute best handheld gimbal that is compatible with GoPro HERO, and other action cameras. then you have found an awesome camera stabilizer in the EVO GP-PRO 3 Axis Gimbal (on Amazon).

Like its older sibling, the EVO GP gopro stabilizer, the frame is made from the same Aluminium as aircrafts are made from, giving the gimbal a great robust look.

The GP-PRO gimbal for GoPro has a lot of customized add-ons, such as the thumb 2-axis joystick on the handle and thread also built into the rear end of the handle so that the gimbal can be hooked up to a wide-range of products such as extension poles and tripods.

There is also a port connector on the device allowing the GP-PRO to connect to external monitors should you wish to stream or record any live images.

The images are always super smooth, even when flipping between any of the four modes, something other models struggle with.

If this isn’t enough for you, EVO have even given you the option to purchase an add-on such as the EVO Pro mount for smartphones (on Amazon).

This extra is excellent, especially if you are looking to use this evo extension pole set (on Amazon) to get closer to the action.

You can use your smartphone as a monitoring screen, and connect it at the bottom of the handle.

This naturally helps improve your videos as you are not shooting “blind”. Everything about the EVO GP-PRO oozes quality.

We think that in 2018, it is the best handheld GoPro gimbal so far, we hold it in that much regard. With most EVO products like the EVO SS & others ryou would typically expect excellent quality, but with the GP-PRO they have really pushed GoPro stabilization to the next level.

Compatibility:

GoPro Hero3, GoPro Hero3+, Hero5 Black*, Hero 6

GoPro Hero4 Silver, GoPro Hero4 Black

Yi Action Cam, Yi 4K Action Cam, SJ4000-SJ6000*

GoPro Hero Session, GoPro Hero5 Session*

Garmin Virb Ultra 30

Nikon KeyMission 170**

2- Feiyu G6 – Splashproof and Outstanding battery life

Feiyu has made some big improvements with the updated version of their flagship GoPro model. The Feiyu G6 splashproof gimbal is a 3-Axis stabilizer with great battery life, excellent overall performance, and intuitive controls.

You have a number of great stabilization modes to choose from, include Lock Mode, Pan Following Mode, Selfie Mode, Trail Timelapse Mode, and Panoramic Mode.

A full 360° of tilting and panning range plus a 320° rolling range help you get a wider range of shots.

No matter the mode, this gimbal offers liquid smooth motion and superior stabilization.

This gimbal works with almost every action camera on the market and it’s quite easy to mount various cameras.

For the Sony RX0, you need to buy a special mount but for most action cameras, the existing mount will work just fine with a gopro. You can also buy this special mobile mount (on Amazon) for use with smartphones.

A newly improved app can be used to control the gimbal which expands your creative possibilities when shooting.

That said, this app will only work ideally with certain action cameras.

One of the few negatives about this gimbal is that you will get a bit of motor noise picked up on your audio when you use your camera’s microphone.

The placement of the camera right by the gimbal’s motor makes this unavoidable.

That doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, though, because a side threaded mount on the handle is ideal for adding an external microphone. Ultimately, this will result in better sound quality anyway.

All in all, the Feiyu G6 is the new gimbal to beat when it comes to action camera gimbals. Especially if you primarily shoot with a GoPro Hero 5 or 6, this gimbal will meet all of your needs and then some.

Other 3-Axis Gimbals for Go-pro Hero Worth Mentioning

Feiyu Tech FYG5

The Feiyu G5 is one of the first waterproof handheld steadicams and has been designed for the GoPro Hero 5 (although it is compatible with previous GoPro hero cameras).

If you are looking to take some professional videos around any water or snow then the G5 is a must have gimbal stabilizer, it is as simple as that. Not only is the G5 waterproof, it comes with lots of add-ons and features that the earlier models could only dream about.

With its upgraded “Unibody arm” delivering a more precise steady camera motion to its excellent rubberized look and it touchscreen monitor, you really get the feel that Feiyu has pushed the boat out with this gimbal.

As far as handheld gimbals go, you will be hard-pressed to find one with as many features as the G5 for anywhere near the price!

In our opinion, if you are planning a trip by boat or skiing in the mountains and you are looking for a handheld gimbal that won’t mind taking a few wet splashes, and will deliver you awesome, smooth footage while your boat or ski’s take the inevitable bumps then the Feiyu G5 is the obvious starting point for you.

Specifications:

Splash-Proof design

Upgraded uni-body arm

Handgrip with built-in, easy to operate joystick and mode buttons

Battery life up to 8 hours

Compatible mainly with GoPro HERO4 but can connect to other cameras around the same size.

Self-timer feature allowing for great selfies

What’s in the box:

Feiyu G5 Gimbal

Carrying bag for the gimbal

Rechargeable battery

USB charging cable

Cleaning cloth for splashes

Feiyu WG2 PRO Edition

The Feiyu WG2 Pro is a gimbal that is ready to help you take great stabilized video in a variety of situations.

It works with most action cameras, including the GoPro 4, the GoPro 3 +, the YI 4K, the SJCAM, and the Hero 4/5 Session.

As long as it’s about the size of a typical action camera and underneath the maximum weight of 130 g, this gimbal should be a good fit. You can use the WG2 as a wearable steadicam or with a number of mounts. A tripod is included and it will also be compatible with a variety of GoPro mounts like a suction cup mount or a clamp mount.

It’s also possible to use the WG2 as a handheld gimbal.

Capturing great stable video is easy with the Feiyu wearable stabilizer, thanks to its four modes.

These are the pan mode, lock mode, panning and tilting mode, and auto-rotation mode. These let you capture a number of different kinds of footage. The Feiyu WG2 stands out from other gimbals especially because of the unique auto-rotation mode.

This lets the user set a starting point and an ending point and then the gimbal will slowly and smoothly move your camera from one point to the other. This lets you capture really dynamic motion time-lapses, among other things.

Something that makes the WG2 really exciting is that it is fully waterproof stabilizer for GoPro cameras, with a verified rating of IP67.

This means it can handle submersion of up to 1 m of depth. This makes the WG2 an ideal gimbal for people who do water sports like rafting and fishing as well as for people who do winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Even if you’re just out in the rain, you don’t have to worry about this gimbal getting damaged or not working properly.

All in all, the Feiyu WG2 is a solid choice of gimbal especially for those doing wearable action videography and for those who work around water.

Removu S1 waterproof GoPro gimbal

Removu is a new brand in the gopro footage stabilization space. They came to the market with the first ‘waterproof’ Gimbal – the Removu S1.

With 4 to 5 Hours Battery life, a detachable wireless joystick, and the possibility to detach the brushless motors module from the handgrip, There’s a lot to like about it.

Not really designed to be fully submerged under water, the Removu S1 is more ‘rainproof’ than waterproof. Designed to work well with the standard go-pro housings, it offers 4 stabilization modes and rather good performance.

This is a high-end gimbal, with a price tag close to Evo’s GP pro offering. As this is still a new product, we are waiting for more customer feedback to come in this year. It might be at the top of this list in 2018!

DOBOT Rigiet (Go-Pro & Smartphones)

The DOBOT Rigiet offers a number of modes. The auto-tracking mode is a really useful tool that keeps the camera smoothly focused on a selected person or object. Even if there is a lot of action, it will remain stable and focused where you want. The gimbal operates on 3 different axes and you can move it either manually with the joystick or use one of the many available modes.

This gimbal works with almost every iOS and Android smartphone and most action cameras, as long as they are under 230g in weight. This includes iPhones, Samsung phones, and GoPro cameras, among many others.

Although videography is the best use for the Rigiet, you can also use it to take great pictures. There are three different panorama modes. There is also a great time-lapse mode which you can use for either photos or videos.

Live streaming is a perfect use for this gimbal. You could even stream live for 24-hour continuous shooting. This is because you can supplement that already long-lasting battery with an external power source without stopping filming.

The DOBOT Rigiet may not be the very best gimbal on the market, but it’s a very solid gopro gimbal, especially for the price. It will give you superior stabilization and professional quality footage.

Hohem iSteady Pro: The Most Affordable Option

The Hohem iSteady Pro gimbal is an affordable way to up your video game, offering excellent stability and smooth motion. With a unique one-piece design and an ergonomically sound handle, this gimbal is comfortable to hold.

In addition to comfort, this design also adds to the overall stability. With four different stabilization modes and a number of additional shooting options, the iSteady Pro is the perfect partner for just about any shooting situation you can come up with.

The gimbal makes sure that motion is buttery smooth. As it moves, there is a remarkable lack of motor noise like you get with some gimbals. This gimbal has a corresponding app that makes it easy to adjust a number of settings, including speed and motor torsion.

You can also use the app as a remote control to manage the gimbal’s movement from a distance. The app has been known to be somewhat buggy but it does seem like they fix problems fairly quickly.

Compatible with the majority of action cameras, the iSteady Pro also makes it easy to add accessories like microphones and lights using the 1/4″ thread mounts. Another example of convenience is the 2-way charging system.

When fully charged, the battery lasts for around 12 hours but you can also keep it going with an external power source like a power bank. Alternatively, you can use the gimbal’s power to charge your camera, even while continuing to use the gimbal. Ultimately, the stabilization of the Hohem iSteady Pro is very good, especially for the price point.

It might be an entry-level and relatively basic model in terms of performance and functionality but the stability it offers will be more than good enough for most users.

Zhiyun Evolution

Pros:

The Zhiyun Evolution is compatible with several GoPro HERO models, including the GoPro HERO 4, 3+, 3, 2, and 1.

This particular gimbal is BacPac supported, which will make shooting an easier process overall.

The Zhiyun does exactly what it is meant to do; it stabilizes your GoPro footage and keeps movement smooth and precise.

This go pro gimbal is pretty reasonably priced, with customers saying that it is a first-rate product and well worth the money to stabilize action footage.

Cons:

There have been some complaints about this gimbal starting out working correctly but losing its functionality over time.

If you attempt to power up your gimbal without both the GoPro and the batteries properly installed, then it will try to compensate for the missing weight and could possibly malfunction.

Neewer NW-Z1-Rider2 3-Axis Portable Steady Multi-Function stabilizer

The Neewer NW-Z1 Rider2 3-Axis GoPro Gimbal is yet another device that gives you almost perfect stabilized GoPro videos without any video blemishes.

Three different modes are available on the NW-ZI Rider2 (also available as zhiyun rider under the zhiyun z1 name), these are, pan following only (no tilt), pan and tilt follower and no pan or tilt (locked off).

There are two buttons on the control stick for modes “tilt in” and “roll in”.

Another great feature of the Neewer Gimbal is the chest mount option and the fact that it comes with its own extension rod that helps to achieve long-distance shooting.

The battery life lasted us an incredible 4 hours and was still going strong when we finished shooting!

Specifications:

Working voltage: 8.4V

Working current: 120mA

Battery Capacity: 900mAh (18350 LIPO)

Tilt Working Angle:-90 ~ 180° (vertical handheld)

Roll Working Angle: -45°~ +45°

Heading Working Angle (vertical handheld): -135 °~ +135°

Heading Working Angle (leveled handheld): -45°~ +45°

Tilt Speed: 1°/s ~50°/s

Heading Speed: 1°/s ~ 80°/s

Max Battery Operation Times (25°C, 2*900mAh): 5h

Operation Temperature: -20°C ~ +45°C

Weight: 12.7oz /361g

What’s in the box:

3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Camera Stabilizer *1

18350 LIPO Battery *2

Battery Charger * 1

Micro USB Cable *1

Charging Cable for GoPro *1

Velcro Strap *1

Warranty Card *1

Manual *1

EVO GP 3 Axis Handheld Gimbal

The EVO GP 3 Axis Handheld Gimbal, is one of the very few Gopro Gimbals that the software is already configured, therefore, you literally take it out of the box, hook it up to your go pro hero and you are ready.

A 5-minute job!

The EVO GP screams quality with its robust metal frame that is really easy on the eye.

It comes with three modes – head-follow mode, head and pitch follow mode, inverted, and lock mode and all 3 modes can be operated from the “tilt and mode” buttons on the handle of the Gimbal.

The battery life lasts over 4 hours.

We would say that this is one of the best products on the market at the moment for a great price.

Specifications:

Works with GoPro Hero3/3+/4 or Garmin Virb XE (requires counter weights)

Strong High Torque Motors Stabilization Accuracy ±0.01°.

No Complex Setup – Mount Camera, Power, and Play

Extends GoPro Battery Life with Included Charging Cable

Up To 7 Hours of Extend Battery Life

Compatible with GoPro LCD BacPac or Battery BacPac

4 Modes – Heading Follow Mode, Heading Lock Mode, Heading & Pitch Follow Mode, Inverted Mode

Supports Remote Control Functions through Remote Extension Cable (optional)

1 Year USA Warranty

Zhiyun Smooth-Q

The Zhiyun Smooth Q GoPro & Smartphone Gimbal is a model designed for smartphones, but it does work the GoPro, thanks to a special plate that is included to attach your GoPro Hero 3/4/5. It is very affordable considering what you are getting!

This gimbal provides 3-axis stabilization and supports 360 degrees of rotation.

It can track you or keep the image steady and stable even as the gimbal gets moved around, like while on a run or a bumpy ride. The joystick controls are easy to use and let you smoothly pan in any direction.

Extreme temperatures and less than stellar weather conditions are not problems for the Smooth Q, so it’s perfect to use for shooting outdoor adventures.

This GoPro gimbal has an impressive battery life and you can even use it to charge your phone or GoPro. You can purchase add-on accessories like external microphones or lights without affecting the performance, at least up to the maximum weight limit of 220g.

This impressive tool has a lot of bang for the buck, as it’s priced much lower than comparable models on the market while performing at least equally as well.

If you’re looking to take your GoPro videos to the next level, you should definitely check out the Zhiyun Smooth Q, it is probably the best one you can get in 2018 at this price level.

Lanparte LA3D

Pros:

The Lanparte LA3D has a detachable handle with means you can use it as a hand-held gimbal or mount it wherever you would usually mount a GoPro.

One of the greatest benefits of owning the Lanpart LA3D is that it has a built-in power port for charging your GoPro while filming. This incredibly convenient premium feature will mean fewer cords and less mess to take with you filming.

This stabilizer also uses two different types of batteries (18350 and 18650) for multiple means of power sourcing.

Users rave about the overall quality of this product, saying that it is made well and lasts a long time. This is one of a perfect gimbals according to user feedback.

Cons:

No part of this model is water-resistant or waterproof, rainproof. It is paramount to avoid moisture when using this product if you purchase it.

There have been some complaints about the stabilization of shots, and with some GoPro models, some buttons may be inaccessible when attached to this gimbal.

IKAN fly X3 Plus

Pros:

The Ikan features 3-Axis stabilization, which is optimal for eliminating shakiness in your shots.

This gimbal is made of high-quality material, which means it is relatively durable and has the potential to last (hardware-wise) for a long while.

Cons:

Users have complained that this particular brushless gimbal can be difficult to balance properly.

This gimbal is a bit more expensive than other models on this list.

Redfox 3 Axis Gimbal

Pros:

The Redfox 3 Axis Gimbal has the capability to run for up to 12 hours at a time.

This gimbal is incredibly easy to set up. You can begin to use it pretty much right out of the box.

The Redfox has a unique, clean design and is very aesthetically pleasing. Most gimbals appear to be made from some variation of metal, but this particular gimbal has a white aluminum finish.

A Bluetooth remote control comes with the purchase of the Redfox 3 Axis gimbal, which is useful for controlling your stability from a distance.

Cons:

Use caution when updating the firmware. Consumers have complained that updating recessed the Gimbal’s usability.

What is a Gimbal?

Well, a Gimbal for gopro hero is a lovely little device sometimes called a stabilizer.

The word Gimbal can be used to describe something that is designed to keep a GoPro Hero or similar action cameras level, the more fashionable term to describe a Gimbal would be a camera stabilizer and anti-vibration device.

Handheld Gimbals are designed for exactly that purpose, to ensure that when you are filming your footage, the camera is focusing directly on what you are aiming at without any interference such as unwanted vibrations and shakes.

Handheld Gimbals use powerful Brushless Motors that are very quiet and last a long time when fully charged.

The gyroscopes are designed to adjust the position of your go pro camera in a free-flowing way to combat any vibrations you could encounter while you are shooting.

A 3-axis stabilizer can be described as “multidimensional” as the Gimbal can operate the camera – Left and right, Up and Down, and backward and forwards.

Why do you need a Gimbal to shoot GoPro videos?

Gimbals are designed to give you a “butterfly” motion video that is smooth as silk.

Have a look at this video stabilized with a Feiyu Tech G4:

Most handheld Gimbals are designed for your Smartphone or most GoPro cameras such as the HERO collection.

GoPro was founded back in 2002 and has since become a powerhouse company for filming technology, especially in extreme-action videography.

A lot of people nowadays are taking up extreme sports such as Skydiving, snowboarding, rock climbing, base jumping or powerboating and a lot of the thrill seekers want to take videos and post them to their websites or video channels such as YouTube.

A Handheld stabilizer will ensure the footage is the best it can be for the viewer.

Let’s be honest, who is going to subscribe to and website or video channel that makes you feel sea sick when watching the videos?

These days, video quality is paramount for anyone serious about making videos.

The different types of GoPro handheld stabilizers

There are two main kinds of handheld Gimbals, the 2 axes, and 3-axis.

The 2 axis gyroscope only stabilizes on the “pitch and roll” axis, while the 3 axis offer “yaw, pitch, and roll.”

The best gopro gimbals use 3 axis stabilization, it is considered the better option as it will eliminate the jittery filming when moving horizontally (in the Yaw axis).

With that being said, sometimes people will opt for the 2 axis Gimbal especially if they are looking to connect it up to a Drone, as the 2 axis Gimbal has one less motor than the 3 axes, therefore, is much lighter for the drone to carry, hence ensuring a longer battery life.

You can also find non-motorized gimbals, like the famous official roxant pro, these are much more affordable but won’t get you the same smooth footage as proper gimbals with built-in stabilization motors and batteries.

Handheld Gimbals usually have between 1 and three modes.

The most basic is being just the one “follow me” mode and the higher end handheld Gimbals have Pan Following Mode that locks tilt and roll axes, so the camera smoothly pans to follow the direction of the device.

Tilt and Pan Following Mode locks on the roll axis so that the camera smoothly follows the pan and tilt motions of the handle.

The Axis Lock setting locks the pan, tilt, and roll axis of the camera into position when the mode is activated.

The higher-end gimbal stabilizers normally have 3 easy to operate buttons on the handle so you can flip between modes while in motion. It can take a bit of getting used to, but it is an extremely useful assist to have once you have mastered it.

You can also buy a 1 Axis gimbal, a lighter and cheaper option, such as the Feiyu Tech FY-WG Lite, which can be sufficient for your needs and still significantly improve your GoPro Hero footage.