Introduction: Why You Need a Tripod or Stabilizer for Your Phone

Smartphone cameras are better than ever, making high-quality videography more accessible to everyday creators, vloggers, and professionals alike. But if you’ve ever tried to shoot steady footage handheld, you know how quickly shaky hands can ruin an otherwise perfect shot. Enter tripods and stabilizers—two essential phone accessories that can instantly elevate your storytelling by ensuring smooth, sharp, and professional-looking videos.

Whether you’re recording family moments, producing cinematic content, or streaming live on social media, having the right support gear will make a world of difference. In this post, we explore the best tripods and stabilizers for phone videography available today, what features to look for, and which options best suit your needs and budget.

Top Tripods for Phone Videography

A good phone tripod provides a sturdy base for your device and allows for hands-free shooting, time-lapses, group shots, and more. Here are our top recommendations for phone tripods in 2024:

1. Joby GorillaPod Mobile Mini

The Joby GorillaPod series is legendary among content creators, and the Mobile Mini is perfect for on-the-go videographers. Its flexible legs let you anchor your phone to almost any surface or wrap it around objects for unique vantage points. Weighing less than 2 ounces, it easily slips into any bag or pocket, making it ideal for travel, vlogging, and creative shoots.

• Ultra-portable and lightweight
• Rubberized feet for grip on uneven surfaces
• Compatible with most smartphones up to 3.6” wide

2. UBeesize 50” Extendable Tripod

If you prefer shooting at eye level or need a versatile height range, the UBeesize 50” Tripod is a great choice. This tripod extends from 16 inches to an impressive 50 inches, making it suitable for everything from tabletop filming to standing interviews. Plus, the wireless remote lets you start and stop recording from a distance.

• Adjustable height (16”-50”)
• Universal phone mount compatible with iOS and Android devices
• Includes Bluetooth remote for hands-free operation

3. Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod Kit

Sleek, durable, and versatile, the Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod is a favorite among photographers and videographers alike. Constructed with high-quality stainless steel and Adapto polymer, it strikes a perfect balance between strength and portability. Its push-button locking mechanism lets you quickly adjust the angle, making it ideal for dynamic shooting and time-lapses.

• Premium build quality
• Easy-to-use locking mechanism
• Supports a wide range of phone sizes

4. BENRO 3XS Lite 3-Axis Smartphone Gimbal/Tripod Hybrid

Combining the stability of a tripod with the advanced features of a gimbal, the BENRO 3XS Lite is perfect for those who want smooth pans, tilts, and cinematic motion. Its foldable design makes it easy to pack, and you can use it as a tabletop tripod or unfold the gimbal for stabilized action shots on the go.

• 3-axis stabilization for butter-smooth footage
• Compact and foldable design
• Tripod feet allow for stationary shots and time-lapses

Best Phone Stabilizers (Gimbals) for Smooth Footage

While tripods keep your shots steady when stationary, phone stabilizers—more commonly known as gimbals—ensure your handheld video looks smooth, no matter how much you’re moving. Here are the top stabilizers for stunning mobile videography:

1. DJI Osmo Mobile 6

The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is widely regarded as the gold standard for phone gimbals. With advanced 3-axis stabilization, intuitive controls, and a telescopic pole for high or low angles, it makes cinematic moves accessible to everyone. The DJI Mimo app also unlocks creative features such as subject tracking, dynamic zoom, and gesture controls.

• Powerful 3-axis gimbal stabilization
• Compact, foldable design with quick-deploy mechanism
• App features for auto-tracking, creative shooting modes, and editing

2. Zhiyun Smooth 5S

The Zhiyun Smooth 5S delivers professional-grade stabilization for serious content creators. Its motor power enables smooth handling of larger phones, even those with added lenses or cases. The built-in control panel and mobile app enable precise adjustments and advanced motion effects like vortex mode or time-lapse panning.

• Strong motors for all phone sizes
• Full-featured app with creative video options
• Excellent battery life (over 12 hours)

3. MOZA Mini MX2

If you’re a beginner or on a budget, the MOZA Mini MX2 offers competitive performance at a lower price point. Its lightweight, ergonomic design makes it comfortable to hold for long shoots, and the smart auto-sensing phone holder gives effortless device mounting. The MOZA Genie app provides access to creative shooting modes like inception, time-lapse, and slow motion.

• Affordable yet effective 3-axis stabilization
• Automatic phone clamp for quick setup
• Compact and travel-friendly design

4. Hohem iSteady Mobile+

Recognized for its easy-to-use controls and robust build, the Hohem iSteady Mobile+ is another fantastic choice. With built-in object tracking, face tracking, and time-lapse features, it empowers you to create dynamic and engaging content right from your smartphone.

• User-friendly, ideal for beginners
• Compatible with many phone models
• Intelligent shooting modes for creative projects

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Phone Tripod or Stabilizer

When shopping for a phone tripod or stabilizer, keep these criteria in mind to find the best fit for your videography needs:

• Compatibility: Ensure the mount fits your phone’s size and weight, including any case or accessories you may use.
• Portability: Lightweight, compact gear is easier to carry, especially for travel or vlogging in different locations.
• Stability: Look for robust construction and secure mounts to prevent wobbling or device slippage.
• Height / Adjustability: Tripods with adjustable heights and angles provide greater flexibility for creative shooting.
• Battery Life (for gimbals): Longer battery life allows for extended shoots without interruption.
• App Features: Apps that offer tracking, motion time-lapse, or creative shooting modes can enhance your videos.
• Budget: Higher-priced models deliver more features, but many affordable options still offer excellent performance.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Mobile Videography with the Right Accessories

Today’s smartphones are more powerful than ever, but their full creative potential is unlocked only with the right accessories. Whether you are a beginner wanting stable family videos or an aspiring filmmaker creating cinematic masterpieces, investing in a quality tripod or gimbal is a smart move. The devices we’ve highlighted—like the Joby GorillaPod, UBeesize Tripod, DJI Osmo Mobile 6, and Zhiyun Smooth 5S—stand out for their performance, portability, and versatility.

Updated for 2024, our picks cater to every style and budget, ensuring you can capture smooth, stable footage wherever your creativity takes you. Don’t forget: when paired with other essential phone accessories like external microphones or lenses, these tripods and stabilizers will truly transform your mobile video game.

Ready to bring Hollywood-level smoothness to your next shoot? Explore our curated selection of tripods and stabilizers and get started on your journey to professional-quality phone videography!