In November, DJI launched its latest smartphone gimbal, the Osmo Mobile 8, in multiple international markets. This gimbal is an excellent option for budding content creators seeking affordability, featuring user-friendly controls and seamless performance capable of elevating home videos.

The DJI Osmo Mobile 8 is a well-built smartphone gimbal

The Osmo Mobile 8 showcases robust construction, mainly composed of durable black plastic, with a slightly textured rubberized grip on the rear of the handle. This element appears redundant, as the material resembles the rest of the handle and doesn’t enhance grip significantly.

The seams interrupt the smooth, ergonomic sensation in the hand. A one-piece handle could have been preferable; the micro-channel surrounding the grip might collect dead skin and dirt. Nonetheless, the Osmo Mobile 8 leaves a favorable overall impression.

Included with the Osmo Mobile 8 are its multifunctional module, a phone clamp, and a storage pouch made of fabric. The phone clamp attaches to the gimbal arm via a powerful magnet, instilling user confidence. Additionally, there are two USB-C cables: a longer one for charging the Mobile 8 and a shorter one for connecting the module to your phone when utilizing a microphone.

Apart from these accessories, the Osmo Mobile 8 comes equipped with a built-in telescopic extension rod and a tripod, both of which are well-crafted. While the extension rod only adds approximately 8.5 inches, it suffices for group shots or a good selfie and can be stored neatly. You can completely extend it while utilizing the tripod, yet it feels somewhat unstable in windy conditions.

The tripod legs are housed within the handle of the Osmo Mobile 8, providing a compact and stylish design solution. The legs can be pulled out from the bottom and unfolded, secured with durable metal hardware.

There’s a notable amount of flex when downward pressure is applied to the Osmo Mobile 8 while the tripod is assembled, offering a slight bounce that indicates it’s unlikely to snap.

The tripod prongs terminate in large rubber feet, ensuring stability and grip, as well as protecting surfaces from scratches. It stands reasonably well on uneven terrain, although it’s not meant for extreme conditions.

DJI recommends acquiring its separately sold Grip Tripod accessory for stable setups of the Osmo Mobile 8 in uneven, windy environments.

Traveling with the Osmo Mobile 8 isn’t entirely convenient

In spite of its clever tripod storage, the Osmo Mobile 8 is bulky enough that transporting it for impromptu shooting feels unwieldy. The gimbal is more than twice as heavy as DJI’s well-known Osmo Pocket 3 gimbal camera, weighing around 370g, and although the mobile phone arm collapses, it still presents an awkward shape for carrying.

The fabric storage bag accompanying the Osmo Mobile 8 offers minimal protection and seems insufficient for transport. Many users may choose to leave the magnetic phone clamp attached to the gimbal when not in use. (DJI provides a