Welcome to our in-depth comparison of two popular smartphone gimbals: the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and the Zhiyun Smooth 4. In this article, we will examine every aspect of these gimbals and help you decide which one is the better choice for your smartphone videography needs. So let’s dive right in and start with an introduction to both gimbals.
Introduction to Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 4
The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and the Zhiyun Smooth 4 are both handheld smartphone gimbals designed to stabilize your smartphone footage and enhance your videography experience. They come with a range of features and functions that make filming smoother, easier, and more professional-looking. However, there are some key differences between the two, and we will explore those in detail in the following sections.
One of the key differences between the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is their design and ergonomics. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 features a foldable design, making it compact and easy to carry around. It also has a comfortable grip that allows for extended use without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 has a more traditional design with a larger handle, providing a more stable grip for those who prefer a bulkier feel. Both designs have their advantages and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Design and Build Quality Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
When it comes to design and build quality, both gimbals have their strengths. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 features a foldable design, making it highly portable and easy to carry around. Its build quality is solid, with a durable construction that can withstand regular use. On the other hand, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 has a more traditional design, with a non-foldable frame. It is still lightweight and well-built, but not as compact as the Osmo Mobile 3. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your preference for portability versus a more traditional form factor.
In addition to their design and build quality, both the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 4 offer a range of features that enhance their usability. The Osmo Mobile 3, for example, has a dedicated button for switching between portrait and landscape modes, making it easier to capture different types of shots. It also has a built-in zoom slider, allowing for smooth and precise zooming in and out. On the other hand, the Smooth 4 offers advanced control options, such as a focus pull wheel and a mode switch button, which provide more flexibility and creative possibilities. These additional features can greatly enhance the overall shooting experience and should be considered when making a decision between the two gimbals.
Features and Functions Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
Both gimbals offer a wide range of features and functions to enhance your smartphone videography. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 boasts a variety of intelligent shooting modes, including ActiveTrack 3.0, which allows you to track subjects with ease. It also features a Gesture Control function, allowing you to control certain features using hand gestures. The Zhiyun Smooth 4, on the other hand, comes with a more extensive set of controls, including a focus pull & zoom capability and various creative shooting modes. It also has a dedicated dial for seamless zooming and focusing. While both gimbals offer impressive features, the Smooth 4’s wider range of controls gives it a slight edge in this category.
In addition to their advanced shooting modes and controls, both the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 4 offer excellent stabilization capabilities. The Osmo Mobile 3 utilizes a 3-axis gimbal system to ensure smooth and steady footage, even when walking or running. It also has a Sport Mode, which increases the gimbal’s responsiveness for capturing fast-paced action. The Smooth 4, on the other hand, features a 4th generation motor, which provides even more precise and stable stabilization. It also has a PhoneGo Mode, which allows for quick transitions and dynamic movements.
When it comes to portability, the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 takes the lead. It is designed to be foldable and lightweight, making it easy to carry around in your bag or pocket. It also has a comfortable grip and ergonomic design, ensuring a comfortable shooting experience. The Zhiyun Smooth 4, while not as compact as the Osmo Mobile 3, still offers a relatively portable solution. It has a solid build quality and a comfortable handle, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions.
Performance and Stabilization Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
When it comes to performance and stabilization, both gimbals excel in their respective ways. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 utilizes an advanced 3-axis gimbal system, which provides smooth and stable footage even during fast movements. It also comes with an active track algorithm that ensures accurate subject tracking. Similarly, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 offers excellent stabilization, thanks to its advanced stabilization algorithm and 3-axis motorized gimbal. It also provides various stabilization modes, including a lock mode for more precise control. Ultimately, both gimbals deliver exceptional stabilization performance, making them suitable for professional use.
In addition to their impressive stabilization capabilities, both the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 4 offer additional features that enhance their overall performance. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 features a foldable design, making it highly portable and easy to carry around. It also has a comfortable grip and intuitive controls, allowing for effortless operation. On the other hand, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 boasts a focus pull and zoom capability, enabling users to create professional-looking videos with ease. It also has a dedicated smartphone app that offers advanced shooting modes and creative functions. These additional features further contribute to the overall performance and versatility of both gimbals.
Battery Life Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
When it comes to battery life, both gimbals offer decent performance. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 boasts a built-in rechargeable battery that provides up to 15 hours of continuous shooting. It also supports charging your smartphone on the go, thanks to its power bank function. The Zhiyun Smooth 4, on the other hand, comes with two rechargeable 2000mAh batteries, providing a total runtime of up to 12 hours. While the Osmo Mobile 3 has a slightly longer battery life, the Smooth 4’s extra battery can be a convenient backup option during longer shooting sessions. It is important to note that actual battery life may vary depending on usage and settings.
In addition to their battery life, both the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 4 have features that help conserve power. The Osmo Mobile 3 has an intelligent sleep mode that automatically activates after a period of inactivity, helping to extend battery life when not in use. The Smooth 4, on the other hand, has a power-saving mode that can be enabled to optimize battery usage during shooting.
Furthermore, both gimbals offer options for charging their batteries. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 can be charged via USB-C, allowing for convenient charging with compatible devices or power banks. The Zhiyun Smooth 4, on the other hand, comes with a dedicated battery charger, allowing users to charge the spare battery separately while using the gimbal with the other battery.
Control Options Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
When it comes to control options, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 offers a more extensive range of controls compared to the Dji Osmo Mobile 3. It features a dedicated control panel with a variety of buttons and a large focus wheel for precise control over your camera settings. It also comes with a companion app that allows you to control parameters such as ISO, white balance, and exposure compensation. While the Osmo Mobile 3 has a simpler control layout, it still provides intuitive control options through its companion app. If you prefer more manual control over your camera settings, the Smooth 4 might be the better choice for you.
In addition to its extensive control options, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 also offers advanced stabilization features. It utilizes a 3-axis gimbal system that helps to eliminate camera shake and produce smooth, professional-looking footage. This can be particularly beneficial when shooting in challenging environments or capturing fast-paced action.
On the other hand, the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 excels in terms of portability. It is designed to be lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and use on the go. This can be especially advantageous for travel photographers or vloggers who need a stabilizer that can easily fit into their bag or pocket.
Compatibility with Smartphone Models: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
Both gimbals are compatible with a wide range of smartphone models, including the latest iPhone and Android devices. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 supports smartphones with a width of up to 3.5 inches, while the Zhiyun Smooth 4 supports smartphones weighing up to 7.4 ounces. It is worth noting that some larger smartphones or smartphones with additional accessories may not fit perfectly in either gimbal. It is recommended to check the compatibility details for your specific smartphone before making a decision.
When considering the compatibility of the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 4 with your smartphone, it is important to note that both gimbals have certain limitations. While they are designed to accommodate a wide range of smartphone models, some larger smartphones or smartphones with additional accessories may not fit perfectly in either gimbal.
For example, if you have a smartphone with a width exceeding 3.5 inches, it may not be compatible with the Dji Osmo Mobile 3. Similarly, if your smartphone weighs more than 7.4 ounces, it may not be suitable for use with the Zhiyun Smooth 4.
Therefore, it is recommended to check the compatibility details provided by the manufacturers for your specific smartphone before making a decision. This will ensure that you can fully utilize the features and benefits of either gimbal with your smartphone.
Price Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
In terms of price, the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 is generally more affordable than the Zhiyun Smooth 4. However, it is important to consider the features and functionality that each gimbal offers. If you require more advanced control options and a wider range of shooting modes, the Smooth 4’s slightly higher price may be justified. On the other hand, if you are on a budget and looking for a reliable gimbal with essential stabilization features, the Osmo Mobile 3 is a great choice.
Another factor to consider when comparing the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is the build quality. The Osmo Mobile 3 features a lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry around and use for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Smooth 4 has a more robust build with a higher weight, which may be preferred by users who prioritize durability and stability.
User Interface and Ease of Use Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
When it comes to user interface and ease of use, both gimbals provide a user-friendly experience. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 features a simple and intuitive interface, with easy access to essential functions through its companion app. It also comes with gesture control options, allowing you to perform certain actions by simply using hand gestures. The Zhiyun Smooth 4, on the other hand, has a more complex interface due to its extensive control options. However, its companion app offers a straightforward user interface with customizable settings, making it easy to adjust the gimbal to your specific needs.
In addition to their user-friendly interfaces, both the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 4 offer advanced features that enhance the overall ease of use. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3, for example, has a quick switch button that allows you to easily switch between portrait and landscape modes, making it convenient for capturing different types of shots. It also has a built-in zoom slider, enabling you to smoothly zoom in and out while recording videos. On the other hand, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 offers a focus pull and zoom capability, which allows for precise focusing and zooming control. This feature is particularly useful for achieving professional-looking shots with depth of field effects. Overall, both gimbals excel in providing a user-friendly experience while offering additional features that enhance their usability.
Image and Video Quality Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
Both gimbals offer excellent image and video quality, thanks to their advanced stabilization systems. The Dji Osmo Mobile 3 utilizes its 3-axis gimbal system to deliver smooth and stable footage, resulting in professional-looking video capture. It also enables features like slow-motion recording and hyperlapse. Similarly, the Zhiyun Smooth 4’s advanced stabilization algorithm ensures precise stabilization, allowing for high-quality video capture. Both gimbals provide exceptional image and video quality, making them suitable for a wide range of videography applications.
Portability and Ease of Travel Comparison: Dji Osmo Mobile 3 Vs Zhiyun Smooth 4
When it comes to portability and ease of travel, the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 has a clear advantage due to its foldable design. It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a bag or even a pocket. The Zhiyun Smooth 4, while not foldable, is still relatively lightweight and can easily fit into a backpack or camera bag. If portability is a top priority for your videography needs, the Osmo Mobile 3’s compact design is a great advantage.
Pros and Cons of the Dji Osmo Mobile 3
Pros:- Foldable design for enhanced portability- Excellent stabilization performance- Intuitive user interface- Long battery lifeCons:- Limited control options compared to the Zhiyun Smooth 4- Some larger smartphones may not fit perfectly
Pros and Cons of the Zhiyun Smooth 4
Pros:- Extensive control options for precise camera settings- Manual zoom and focus capability- Decent battery life with an extra battery as a backup optionCons:- Non-foldable design- Slightly higher price compared to the Dji Osmo Mobile 3- Bulkier compared to the Osmo Mobile 3
Verdict: Which Gimbal is Better for Smartphone Videography – Dji Osmo Mobile 3 or Zhiyun Smooth 4?
Choosing between the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and the Zhiyun Smooth 4 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value portability and ease of travel, along with a more affordable price, the Osmo Mobile 3 is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you require more advanced control options and manual settings, along with a slightly better battery life, the Smooth 4 is the better option. Both gimbals offer exceptional stabilization and image quality, making them reliable tools for capturing professional-looking smartphone footage.
Final Thoughts on the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and Zhiyun Smooth 4
Both the Dji Osmo Mobile 3 and the Zhiyun Smooth 4 are top contenders in the smartphone gimbal market, offering impressive features and performance. Whether you prioritize portability, control options, or image quality, there is a gimbal that suits your needs. Before making a final decision, we recommend considering your budget, smartphone model compatibility, and desired shooting experience. Both gimbals will undoubtedly enhance your smartphone videography and take your content creation to the next level.
