The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 is a professional-grade 3-axis smartphone gimbal stabilizer designed for creators who want smoother, more controlled and more cinematic footage from a smartphone. It combines powerful stabilization motors with a physical control panel, joystick, focus/zoom wheel, multiple stabilization modes and support for ZHIYUN's ZY Cami ecosystem.

Unlike compact phone gimbals focused primarily on portability, the Smooth 5 is built more like a miniature professional camera gimbal. Its larger body, adjustable roll-axis arm and strong motors are designed to provide stable performance with heavier smartphones. ZHIYUN specifies a payload of up to 300g, while the official product documentation lists a device weight of approximately 615g including battery.

The Smooth 5 is particularly suitable for YouTube videos, filmmaking, travel vlogging, TikTok, Instagram Reels, product photography, cinematic B-roll and mobile content creation. It supports multiple operating modes including Pan Follow, Lock, Follow, POV, Vortex and Go modes.

For creators who want more than simple electronic image stabilization, the Smooth 5 provides physical controls for camera movement, zoom and focus, giving a smartphone a more traditional filmmaking workflow.

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Key Features

• Professional 3-axis mechanical stabilization
• Supports smartphones up to approximately 300g
• Powerful magnetic-steel motors
• 360° pan rotation
• Adjustable roll-axis arm
• Physical joystick
• Dedicated focus/zoom control wheel
• Zoom/focus switching
• Multiple professional shooting modes
• Pan Follow Mode
• Lock Mode
• Follow Mode
• Point of View Mode
• Vortex Mode
• Go Mode
• SmartFollow subject tracking
• Gesture control
• ZY Cami app support
• Magnetic fill-light support
• Optional magnetic fill light
• Four fill-light color filters with Combo package
• 1/4-inch tripod thread
• USB-C charging
• Power bank/output functionality
• Up to 25 hours standby/light-use runtime
• Approximately 4.5 hours with fill light at maximum brightness
• 2–4 hour charging time depending on charger
• Professional physical controls
• Suitable for horizontal and vertical smartphone filming
• Designed for mobile filmmakers and content creators

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Key Features in Detail

1. Professional 3-Axis Stabilization

The Smooth 5 uses a three-axis mechanical gimbal system to compensate for unwanted movements on the tilt, roll and pan axes.

This is especially useful when:

• Walking while filming
• Following a moving subject
• Shooting cinematic B-roll
• Recording travel videos
• Creating product videos
• Capturing events
• Recording interviews
• Shooting social-media content

Instead of relying entirely on the smartphone's electronic stabilization, the Smooth 5 physically moves the smartphone to counter unwanted motion.

ZHIYUN designed the Smooth 5 with high-performance motors and a wide phone clamp specifically for stable operation with modern smartphones.

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2. High Payload Capacity

The Smooth 5 is designed to accommodate relatively heavy smartphones.

ZHIYUN lists a payload of approximately 300g, making it suitable for many flagship smartphones and some setups using additional accessories.

This is important because modern smartphones can become considerably heavier when combined with:

• Protective cases
• Camera accessories
• Lens attachments
• Filters
• Other compatible accessories

Users should always balance the phone correctly before operation and check ZHIYUN's current compatibility documentation for their exact device. ZHIYUN maintains a dedicated camera/smartphone compatibility list for the Smooth 5.

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3. Adjustable Roll Axis

One of the most useful hardware features is the adjustable roll-axis arm.

The arm can be adjusted to help accommodate smartphones of different sizes and weights.

This also helps keep the gimbal structure away from the smartphone's camera field of view.

That is particularly useful with modern smartphones equipped with increasingly wide-angle camera systems.

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4. Dedicated Focus and Zoom Wheel

The Smooth 5 includes a physical focus/zoom control wheel on the side of the handle.

This gives the gimbal a more professional camera-like operating experience.

The wheel can be used for:

• Zoom control
• Focus control
• Smooth zoom transitions
• Manual focus adjustments

A central control allows users to switch between focus and zoom functionality when supported through the compatible application.

For creators who regularly shoot cinematic footage, this physical wheel can be much more convenient than reaching toward the smartphone screen.

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5. Professional Control Panel

The Smooth 5 features a dedicated control panel with physical buttons and a joystick.

You can control important functions without constantly touching the phone.

The hardware controls can provide access to functions such as:

• Camera movement
• Recording
• Mode selection
• Zoom
• Focus
• Follow modes
• Other supported camera controls

This makes the Smooth 5 feel closer to operating a compact filmmaking rig than a simple selfie stick.

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6. Multiple Stabilization Modes

The Smooth 5 supports multiple gimbal modes for different shooting situations.

Pan Follow Mode

The gimbal follows horizontal movement while maintaining control over the other axes.

Useful for:

• Walking shots
• Travel videos
• Tracking subjects

Lock Mode

The camera orientation remains locked while the user moves the gimbal.

Ideal for:

• Cinematic tracking shots
• Product videos
• Straight-line movements

Follow Mode

The gimbal follows movements more naturally across the supported axes.

Useful for:

• Vlogging
• Moving subjects
• General filmmaking

POV Mode

The phone follows the movement of the handle more dynamically, producing a more immersive perspective.

Vortex Mode

Vortex mode creates a rotating cinematic effect and can be used for creative transitions and dramatic shots.

Go Mode

Go Mode provides faster response for dynamic movement.

ZHIYUN's documentation and independent testing identify these modes as part of the Smooth 5's shooting system.

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7. SmartFollow Tracking

The Smooth 5 supports SmartFollow, allowing compatible software to track a selected subject.

This is particularly useful for:

• Vlogging
• Presentations
• Dance videos
• Fitness videos
• Tutorials
• Solo content creation

Instead of manually controlling the gimbal continuously, SmartFollow can help keep the selected subject positioned within the frame.

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8. Gesture Control

The Smooth 5 supports gesture-based operation through its compatible software ecosystem.

This can be useful when the smartphone is placed on a tripod and the creator is standing away from the camera.

For example, a creator can use supported gestures to control tracking or shooting functions without walking back to the smartphone.

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9. Magnetic Fill-Light Support

The Smooth 5 features magnetic connectors for compatible fill lights.

This is one of its standout accessories.

The magnetic light can be attached to the smartphone clamp and powered through the gimbal system rather than requiring a separate battery.

The light can also be positioned in different orientations, giving creators additional flexibility when lighting their subject.

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10. Fill-Light Filters

The Smooth 5 Combo package can include a magnetic fill light along with four color filters.

These filters allow creators to alter the character and color of the light.

This can be useful for:

• Portrait videos
• Vlogging
• Product videos
• Indoor shooting
• Creative photography
• Nighttime content

Important: The standard and Combo versions have different package contents. The fill light and filters are associated with the Combo package, not necessarily the standard package.

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11. 360° Pan Rotation

The Smooth 5 provides a 360° pan range, allowing the smartphone to rotate continuously around the pan axis.

This provides greater freedom for:

• Tracking shots
• Cinematic movements
• Vortex effects
• Subject transitions
• Creative camera movements

The official specifications list the pan mechanical range as -180° to +180°.

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12. Wide Mechanical Movement

The Smooth 5 also provides broad mechanical movement on its tilt and roll axes.

Official specifications list:

These ranges allow the gimbal to perform a wide variety of camera movements.

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13. ZY Cami App

The Smooth 5 works with ZHIYUN's ZY Cami app.

The app provides access to additional intelligent and creative features.

Depending on smartphone compatibility and software version, features can include:

• SmartFollow
• Dolly Zoom
• Panorama
• Clone Mode
• Time-lapse
• Hyperlapse
• Smart shooting templates
• Camera controls
• Filters
• Creative effects

ZHIYUN provides the ZY Cami application and official compatibility documentation through its Smooth 5 download center.

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14. Dolly Zoom

The Smooth 5 supports a Dolly Zoom creative effect through compatible software.

This effect changes the relationship between the subject and background to create a dramatic cinematic perspective.

It is especially useful for:

• Short films
• Reels
• TikTok
• YouTube intros
• Cinematic transitions

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15. Panorama and Clone Mode

The Smooth 5 can also be used for creative panoramic photography.

Supported panorama modes can include:

• 180° panorama
• 240° panorama
• Free-form panorama
• Clone Mode

Clone Mode can create images where the same person appears multiple times in a single composition.

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16. Long Battery Runtime

The Smooth 5 uses a rechargeable battery and is designed for extended shooting sessions.

ZHIYUN's official specifications list:

Maximum runtime: Up to 25 hours under specified light-use/standby conditions.

With the fill light operating at maximum brightness, the runtime can drop to approximately 4.5 hours.

Actual runtime depends on:

• Smartphone weight
• Motor activity
• Shooting mode
• Fill-light usage
• Bluetooth/app usage
• Environmental conditions

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17. USB-C Charging

The Smooth 5 can be charged through USB.

ZHIYUN specifies a charging time of approximately:

• 2 hours using 15W fast charging
• 4 hours using a 5V/2A adapter

Actual charging time can vary depending on charger, cable and environmental conditions.

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18. Smartphone Power Output

The Smooth 5 also provides a 5V output, allowing the gimbal to function as a power source for compatible accessories/phones under supported conditions.

This can help extend shooting sessions when smartphone battery life becomes a concern.

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19. 1/4-Inch Tripod Thread

The Smooth 5 includes a standard 1/4-inch threaded mounting point.

This allows it to be connected to compatible:

• Tripods
• Monopods
• Mounting accessories
• Other camera support equipment

This is particularly useful for creators who want to switch between handheld filming and stationary shooting.

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Specifications Chart

Official specifications are based on ZHIYUN's Smooth 5 documentation.

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Standard vs Combo Package

ZHIYUN's own product information identifies the Standard kit and Combo kit as different configurations, with the Combo adding the fill light, filters, bag and other accessories.

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Comparison Chart

ZHIYUN Smooth 5 vs Smooth 4 vs Smooth 5S

The Smooth 5 is positioned as a more professional, heavier-duty smartphone gimbal than the compact consumer-focused alternatives.

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Smooth 5 vs Smooth Q5 Ultra

Choose Smooth 5 if you prioritize physical controls, focus/zoom control and a more traditional professional gimbal workflow.

Choose Smooth Q5 Ultra AI Combo if you prioritize AI tracking, wireless remote operation, portability and hands-free solo shooting.

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Who Should Buy ZHIYUN Smooth 5?

YouTube Creators

The Smooth 5 is an excellent choice for YouTubers who want smoother walking shots, product demonstrations and cinematic B-roll.

Mobile Filmmakers

Its physical controls and broad mechanical ranges make it particularly attractive to users who want more control over smartphone cinematography.

Travel Vloggers

Use the gimbal for smoother walking footage, city tours, hotel videos, landscapes and travel documentaries.

TikTok Creators

The stabilization and creative shooting modes can significantly improve the visual quality of short-form content.

Instagram Reels Creators

The gimbal can produce smoother movement and more professional-looking vertical content.

Product Reviewers

The focus/zoom wheel and smooth movement make it useful for technology reviewers demonstrating:

• Smartphones
• Smartwatches
• Earbuds
• Laptops
• Gaming products
• Accessories

Small Businesses

Businesses can use the Smooth 5 for:

• Product advertisements
• Social-media videos
• Promotional reels
• Store tours
• Demonstrations
• Online marketing

Wedding & Event Videographers

For smartphone-based event footage, the Smooth 5 can provide considerably smoother movement than handheld shooting.

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Who Should NOT Buy Smooth 5?

The Smooth 5 may not be the best choice for someone who wants an extremely small and lightweight phone gimbal.

It is relatively substantial at approximately 615g, and independent reviews have noted that its larger size and weight can make it less convenient for users who prioritize portability.

It is also better suited to users who are willing to learn manual gimbal controls rather than someone looking for a completely automatic beginner setup.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ZHIYUN Smooth 5?

The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 is a 3-axis professional smartphone gimbal stabilizer designed for smooth and cinematic mobile video.

2. Is Smooth 5 a 3-axis gimbal?

Yes. It uses three-axis mechanical stabilization for tilt, roll and pan movements.

3. How much weight can Smooth 5 support?

ZHIYUN lists a payload of approximately 300g.

4. How much does the Smooth 5 weigh?

The official specifications list approximately 615g including the battery.

5. Does Smooth 5 have a focus wheel?

Yes. It has a dedicated focus/zoom control wheel.

6. Can I control zoom with Smooth 5?

Yes, supported camera/app combinations allow the physical control wheel to operate zoom.

7. Can the wheel control focus?

Yes. The wheel can be switched between zoom and focus functions where supported.

8. Does Smooth 5 support SmartFollow?

Yes. SmartFollow provides subject-tracking functionality through the compatible ZHIYUN software ecosystem.

9. Does Smooth 5 have a built-in light?

The gimbal itself supports a magnetic fill light. The fill light is included with the Combo package rather than the basic Standard configuration.

10. Does Smooth 5 include fill-light filters?

The Combo package includes fill-light filters. Exact contents should be checked against the specific TechShek.pk bundle.

11. Does Smooth 5 have a tripod mount?

Yes. It has a standard 1/4-inch threaded hole.

12. How long does Smooth 5 battery last?

ZHIYUN specifies up to 25 hours under its light-use/standby test conditions, while maximum fill-light operation can reduce runtime to around 4.5 hours.

13. How long does Smooth 5 take to charge?

Approximately 2 hours with 15W fast charging or around 4 hours using a 5V/2A adapter, under ZHIYUN's specified test conditions.

14. Does Smooth 5 support 360-degree rotation?

Yes. Its pan axis provides a 360° mechanical range.

15. Can Smooth 5 shoot in Vortex mode?

Yes. Vortex Mode is one of the supported creative shooting modes.

16. Does Smooth 5 support POV mode?

Yes. POV mode provides more dynamic movement between the phone and gimbal.

17. Does Smooth 5 support Dolly Zoom?

Yes. Dolly Zoom is available through compatible software features.

18. Can Smooth 5 be used for TikTok?

Yes. It is suitable for TikTok, Reels and other short-form video platforms.

19. Can Smooth 5 be used for YouTube?

Yes. It is particularly useful for YouTube vlogging, B-roll, product videos and mobile filmmaking.

20. Does Smooth 5 work with Android phones?

Yes, compatible Android devices are supported. However, features can vary by phone model, operating system and application compatibility. ZHIYUN provides a dedicated compatibility list.

21. Does Smooth 5 work with iPhone?

Yes, compatible iPhones can be used. Users should check ZHIYUN's current compatibility list for their specific model.

22. What app does Smooth 5 use?

The Smooth 5 works with ZY Cami.

23. Can Smooth 5 track a person?

Yes, SmartFollow provides subject-tracking functionality when used with compatible software.

24. Is Smooth 5 good for professional smartphone filmmaking?

Yes. Its mechanical stabilization, focus/zoom wheel, physical controls, high payload and wide movement range make it especially suited to users who want a more professional mobile-filmmaking workflow.

25. Is Smooth 5 better than a normal selfie stick?

Yes, if your priority is stabilization and cinematic camera movement. A normal selfie stick does not provide the same three-axis motorized stabilization.

26. Is Smooth 5 easy for beginners?

The hardware is capable, but beginners should expect a learning curve because it offers numerous physical controls and professional shooting modes. Independent reviews have specifically noted that the Smooth 5 has a more complex control system than simpler smartphone gimbals.

27. Does Smooth 5 fold?

It has a foldable/lockable design, although it remains relatively large compared with newer compact smartphone gimbals. ZHIYUN's specifications list approximately 311 × 168 × 52mm.

28. Can I use a phone case with Smooth 5?

Some phone cases can be used, but the total phone-and-case weight and dimensions must remain within the gimbal's compatibility limits. Thick or unusually shaped cases may require removal.

29. Is Smooth 5 good for travel?

Yes, especially if stabilization quality and manual control are more important to you than minimum size and weight.

30. Is ZHIYUN Smooth 5 worth buying?

For creators who want strong mechanical stabilization, physical camera controls, focus/zoom operation and professional mobile-filmmaking features, the Smooth 5 remains a capable option. Its main trade-off is that it is heavier and less convenient than newer compact gimbals.

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Conclusion

The ZHIYUN Smooth 5 is built for smartphone users who want to take mobile filmmaking more seriously. Instead of focusing only on portability and automatic operation, it provides a more traditional gimbal experience with three-axis stabilization, powerful motors, physical controls, a joystick, focus/zoom wheel and extensive shooting modes.

Its approximately 300g payload makes it suitable for many modern flagship smartphones, while the adjustable roll-axis design helps accommodate different phone sizes and camera configurations.

The ability to add a magnetic fill light, combined with SmartFollow, gesture control, Dolly Zoom, Panorama, Vortex and POV modes, gives creators plenty of creative options.

The Smooth 5 is therefore best suited to YouTubers, vloggers, mobile filmmakers, TikTok creators, Instagram Reels creators, product reviewers and businesses producing professional smartphone content.

If you want a lightweight AI-first gimbal, newer models such as the Smooth Q5 Ultra are more appropriate. But if your priority is manual control, robust stabilization and a camera-gimbal-style shooting experience, the Smooth 5 remains a compelling smartphone filmmaking tool.