Insta360 Flow stabilization? Is it really that good?

Most smartphones already have pretty good stabilization, and many people have action cameras and 360 cameras with even better stabilization. Nevertheless, the Insta360 Flow is incredibly useful for at least two reasons: first, it allows for a longer focal length, which looks more cinematic. This improves the production value of the videos, making them look like they were shot by a camera crew.

Second, the Flow's tracking capabilities are insanely good. Using longer focal lengths is a bit of a challenge because you can easily get out of frame and have to reshoot. With the Insta360 Flow's tracking capabilities, I can track subjects reliably, so shooting at longer focal lengths is actually easy, even from absurd distances of as much as 60m.

Additionally, Flow has unique features that no other phone stabilization has (as of March 2023), including tracking in slow-motion video (up to 240 frames per second on the iPhone 13 Pro Max) and auto-zoom (it will automatically zoom in as needed to keep you in the frame). Auto-zoom keeps your head roughly at the top line of the rule of thirds, instead of dead center in the frame.

IS Insta360 Flow CONVENIENT AND PRACTICAL TO USE?

Using traditional phone gimbals is a pain, as they are not pocket-sized and usually require you to balance your phone before using it. The Insta360 Flow is pocket-sized and takes no more time to use than a selfie stick. The Flow has an innovative folding mechanism that allows you to unfold it in one motion. The phone clip can be left attached to the gimbal. You don’t have to worry about losing it.

RESTRICTIONS

The Flow’s biggest limitation is its limited tilt and pan angle. This is a trade-off with the foldable design, and all other foldable phone gimbals (including the DJI OM6) have similar limitations. Is it worth the trade-off? Definitely YES, and for now, we can say that this is one of the best gimbals on the market!

SUMMARY

Insta360 Flow is the first phone stabilizer that is both incredibly easy to use and incredibly useful. It's an easy and affordable way to make your videos look more cinematic.