Zhiyun Smooth-XS
Smartphone Stabilizer | Review by Dave WilliamsVideo comes hand-in-hand with photography, and as gear-junkies we’re often
looking for things to help us capture better images without breaking the budget.
To stabilize video footage shot on our smartphone and iron out the bumps, the
Zhiyun Smooth-XS collapsible gimbal does a pretty good job. This pocket-sized
gimbal features a foldout tripod incorporated into the handle, so it can fit in compact
spaces amidst our gear. Coming in at $74.99, it’s fair to say you get decent value
for your money.
The rock-steady footage this gimbal allows is just what you need in most cases,
and it’s uncanny to watch the phone stay balanced when you rock the handle from
side to side. The Smooth-XS doesn’t do much for vertical stabilization—for that you’d
need the next model up—but for lateral motion, it’s spot-on.
Combined with the ZY Cami app, the controls on the gimbal allow you to zoom
in and out, as well as turn the camera or set a tracking point. These controls
are intuitive, which makes everything a little bit easier when it comes to control,
particularly when shooting in selfie mode when it can be more important at times
to allow your thumb to work on autopilot. Without the app though, these controls
won’t do anything.
In the box, you’ll find the Smooth-XS along with a USB-C charging cable, a wrist
strap, and a soft pouch. The tripod element is detachable, and there’s a tripod thread
as well so you could attach it to a conventional tripod or a selfie stick, if you so
desire. In addition, the handle slides out by 10 " for a little extra reach. The phone is
attached to a spring-loaded grip which is sufficient for most smartphones in cases.
Overall, the construction of the Zhiyun Smooth-XS is obviously plastic, but for
this price, it’s a great tool. nCompany: ZhiyunPrice: $ 74.9 9Hot: For its price, it’s ideal; the
gimbal performs without
a hitchNot: The gimbal controls won’t
function without the app REVIEWSPHOTOSHOP USER
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