Zhiyun Smooth 5S Review
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The Zhiyun SMOOTH 5S is the upgraded version of the SMOOTH 5, and it comes with some pretty impressive features. Notably, it now has a built-in fill light, stronger motors, and a 24-hour battery life—yes, you read that right, 24 hours!
There are two versions available:
Standard: $169, includes the gimbal and a small tripod.
Combo: $219, adds a carrying bag, wrist strap, and an extra removable fill light (you can add up to two).
Build Quality and Handling
This gimbal feels sturdy, not cheap like some other phone gimbals. The solid build gives the impression it could handle even a small camera. It has lots of physical buttons that work with Zhiyun’s apps, making control over your phone’s camera much easier. You get buttons for power, functions, recording, menu access, and more—plus a jog wheel to control zoom, focus, or light intensity.
Features
Can support most phones (2”–3.5” in width).
Built-in fill light plus optional external lights.
Extra USB-C port to charge your phone while shooting.
360-degree pan capability.
Multiple modes like pan follow, POV, vortex, etc.
Setup Considerations
It’s not quite a grab-and-go gimbal. You might need to pre-balance your phone, especially if it’s larger. Vertical mode requires some manual adjustments, and unlike some other gimbals, there’s no extendable selfie stick. The stronger motors make it heavier and slightly bulkier.
Pros
Smooth, high-quality footage thanks to stronger motors.
Lots of features and manual control options.
Built-in and removable fill lights.
Long-lasting battery and phone charging capability.
Sturdy, durable design.
Cons
Slightly heavier and larger than compact alternatives.
Setup requires a few extra steps (balancing, locking axes).
No built-in extendable selfie stick.
Might be overkill for casual users or travelers who prioritize portability.
Who Should Get It?
If you’re serious about smartphone filmmaking and want strong motors, smooth footage, and a durable gimbal, the SMOOTH 5S is an excellent choice. If you’re upgrading from the SMOOTH 5, it might not be necessary unless you need the added light or longer battery. If you want something compact for travel, a smaller gimbal like the SMOOTH Q4 could be a better fit.
