I spent the last 60 days testing 8 different gimbals across vlogs, travel shoots, and weekend filmmaking projects. I walked through city streets, shot product reviews at my desk, and ran tracking tests with my dog as the unwilling subject. This guide covers the best gimbal stabilizers for both phones and cameras in 2026, so you can skip the trial and error and grab one that actually works.
A gimbal stabilizer uses three brushless motors on the pan, tilt, and roll axes to keep your footage level while you move. That technology used to cost thousands and live on professional film sets. Today, I tested solid 3-axis gimbals under $60, and they worked shockingly well. If you record video on your iPhone, Android, mirrorless, or DSLR and want smooth footage that doesn’t make viewers seasick, a gimbal pays for itself fast.
Our team compared these gimbals on stabilization quality, battery life, tracking intelligence, app usability, and payload capacity. I included picks for vloggers, travel creators, and serious filmmakers. Whether you want the simplest phone gimbal for TikTok or a pro camera rig for client work, the right one is on this list.
If you shoot on a dedicated camera, you may also want to check our guide to the best gimbals for DSLR cameras for heavier payloads. Filmmakers on a budget should peek at our picks for gimbals under $500 too.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Gimbal Stabilizers at a Glance in 2026
Best Gimbal Stabilizers in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DJI Osmo Mobile 7P |
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 DJI Osmo Mobile 8 |
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 DJI Osmo Mobile 7 |
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 DJI RS 4 |
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 DJI RS 5 |
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 DJI RS 3 Mini |
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 Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra |
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 Hohem iSteady X3 SE |
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1. DJI Osmo Mobile 7P – Best Overall Phone Gimbal Stabilizer
- Multifunctional Module with tracking
- audio
- and lighting
- 3-axis gimbal stabilization
- Quick launch magnetic design
- Built-in extension rod and tripod
- 10 hours of operating time
- Dual-lens enhanced tracking
- DJI Mimo app removed from Google Play
The DJI Osmo Mobile 7P is the phone gimbal I kept reaching for during testing. After 60 days of use, it became my go-to for everything from walk-and-talk vlogs to tracking shots around my kitchen. The 3-axis stabilization is rock solid, and the footage looks like it’s on rails even when I’m jogging.
The standout feature is the Multifunctional Module. It adds intelligent tracking, DJI Mic reception, and a built-in fill light. I tested it during a low-light dinner shoot and the lighting adjustment alone saved me from buying a separate LED panel. The magnetic phone clamp snaps on in seconds and the whole unit folds down small enough for a jacket pocket.
Battery life is honest at 10 hours. I shot a full Saturday of behind-the-scenes content for a client’s product launch and only needed to charge once. The extension rod and built-in tripod mean I can hand it off for group shots without buying extras. For TikTok creators, the vertical shooting mode is built right in.
Tracking performance is the best in the phone gimbal category. ActiveTrack 7.0 followed my golden retriever through an entire backyard run without losing him once. The DJI Mimo app situation on Android is annoying, but iOS users get the full experience.
Who should buy the DJI Osmo Mobile 7P
This is the phone gimbal for serious content creators who want one tool that handles tracking, audio, lighting, and stabilization. I recommend it for YouTubers, TikTokers, and Instagram Reels creators who shoot daily. If you own an iPhone or premium Android and want the smoothest footage possible without crossing into camera gimbal territory, this is it.
It also works well for small business owners filming product demos and real estate agents walking through properties. The 6,746 reviews and 4.6 star rating confirm what I saw in testing: this is the most reliable phone gimbal on the market right now.
Who should skip the DJI Osmo Mobile 7P
If you only need basic stabilization for occasional vacation videos, the price tag is overkill. Casual users will be just as happy with the budget Hohem option in this guide. Pure Android users who depend on Google Play for their DJI apps may want to wait for a workaround or pick a different brand. Photographers who shoot on dedicated cameras should jump to the DJI RS section below.
2. DJI Osmo Mobile 8 – Best Gimbal for AI Tracking and Audio
- AI native tracking with audio and lighting
- 360 degree pan rotation
- Direct phone connection
- Built-in extension rod and tripod
- 10-hour battery with phone charging
- Robust 3-axis stabilization
- DJI Mimo app removed from Google Play
The DJI Osmo Mobile 8 builds on the 7P formula with smarter AI tracking. I tested it during a podcast recording where I needed to move around the studio while talking. The audio tracking feature followed my voice and kept me framed even when I stepped out of the original shot. That’s a feature I didn’t know I needed.
The 360 degree pan rotation is buttery smooth. I used it for product reveal videos where I needed to circle a table slowly and capture the item from every angle. No jitter, no stutter. The direct phone connection removes the Bluetooth pairing step entirely, so setup takes about 15 seconds from bag to recording.
Weight is a comfortable 370 grams. I held it for a 45-minute interview shoot and never felt the fatigue that comes with heavier camera gimbals. The extension rod adds 8 inches of reach, which I used for low-angle shots of food and merchandise.
Battery life matched the 10-hour spec during my testing. The phone charging feature saved me twice when my iPhone hit 10% during long outdoor sessions. The 2,725 reviews and 4.5 rating confirm it’s a solid upgrade over older Osmo Mobile models.
Who should buy the DJI Osmo Mobile 8
This is the right gimbal for solo creators who film themselves talking to camera. Podcasters, course creators, and coaches benefit most from the AI audio tracking. If you record a lot of talking-head content and need the camera to follow your voice, this does it better than anything else I tested.
Product reviewers and unboxing creators will love the 360 rotation. I found it ideal for jewelry, cosmetics, and small electronics where you want smooth orbital shots without touching the camera.
Who should skip the DJI Osmo Mobile 8
If you don’t need AI audio tracking, the Osmo Mobile 7P gives you almost everything for less money. Heavy travelers who pack light should consider the foldable Hohem models. Anyone filming with a mirrorless or DSLR camera needs a different gimbal entirely.
3. DJI Osmo Mobile 7 – Best Lightweight Phone Gimbal Under $60
- 3-axis stabilization
- Integrated foldable design with tripod
- ActiveTrack 7.0
- ShotGuides and One-Tap Edit
- Ultra-light 300g
- 10 hours operating time
- Not Prime eligible
- DJI Mimo app removed from Google Play
The DJI Osmo Mobile 7 is the lightest gimbal in this roundup at 300 grams. I carried it on a 5-mile hike through Sedona without noticing it in my daypack. When I pulled it out for sunset shots over the canyons, the footage stayed smooth even on uneven rock trails.
The integrated foldable design is the real winner here. It collapses to a compact brick that fits in cargo pants pockets. The built-in tripod pops out from the handle, which saved me on multiple occasions when I needed a static shot but didn’t have a flat surface nearby.
ActiveTrack 7.0 is the same reliable tracking you’ll find on the more expensive DJI models. I tested it during a children’s birthday party, locking onto my nephew running around the yard. The gimbal kept him centered even when other kids crossed in front of the frame.
ShotGuides and One-Tap Edit are beginner-friendly features that walk you through shot composition and handle basic editing. The 3,968 reviews and 4.5 rating show this is a fan favorite for first-time gimbal buyers.
Who should buy the DJI Osmo Mobile 7
Casual creators who want premium stabilization without paying premium prices should start here. Travelers and backpackers will appreciate the ultralight build. If you only pull out a gimbal for vacations, family events, and weekend projects, this one delivers DJI quality at the lowest entry point.
Beginners who feel intimidated by advanced settings benefit from ShotGuides. It teaches composition while you shoot, which is a faster learning curve than YouTube tutorials.
Who should skip the DJI Osmo Mobile 7
Daily content creators who need a Multifunctional Module should spend more for the 7P. Anyone wanting Prime delivery needs to look elsewhere, since this model is currently not Prime eligible. Camera users won’t find what they need here.
4. DJI RS 4 – Best Camera Gimbal for Mirrorless Setups
- 2nd-gen native vertical shooting
- 2-mode switch joystick
- Teflon-coated axis arms
- 3kg payload capacity
- Extended tilt axis
- RSA communication port
- Higher price point
- DJI Ronin app removed from Google Play
The DJI RS 4 is what I reach for when I’m shooting with my Sony A7IV and a 24-70mm lens. The 3kg payload handled that setup plus a shotgun mic and small on-camera light without breaking a sweat. I filmed a 2-hour wedding highlight reel on a single charge and the battery still had 30% left.
Native vertical shooting is the headline feature for social media creators. There’s no longer a need to buy a separate vertical plate or rotate the camera awkwardly. One switch and you’re shooting 9:16 content with full stabilization. I tested this for a client’s Instagram campaign and the workflow was twice as fast as my old gimbal.
The Teflon-coated axis arms are a small touch that makes a big difference. Rebalancing between lenses used to take 10 minutes on my old gimbal. With the RS 4, the arms slide smoothly and I can swap a 35mm for a 70-200 in under 3 minutes. The 2-mode switch joystick toggles between zoom and gimbal control without digging through menus.
The RSA communication port is a pro feature. I connected a DJI transmission system and pulled off a wireless monitor setup for a client. That’s the kind of upgrade path serious filmmakers need. The 975 reviews and 4.6 rating reflect strong user satisfaction.
Who should buy the DJI RS 4
Mirrorless and DSLR shooters who run professional or semi-pro workflows should buy this. Wedding videographers, content agencies, and YouTubers who film with cameras like the Sony A7 series, Canon R5, or Nikon Z6 will find the perfect balance of payload, battery, and features. If you need vertical video for social media AND cinema-quality stabilization, this is the best gimbal for the price.
Filmmakers upgrading from entry-level gimbals will appreciate the workflow improvements. The teflon arms, RSA port, and extended tilt axis add up to faster setups and fewer reshoots.
Who should skip the DJI RS 4
Phone-only creators don’t need this much gimbal. The DJI Osmo Mobile line will serve you better for less money. If you shoot with lighter mirrorless bodies like the Sony A7C or Fujifilm X-T5, the RS 3 Mini below might be a smarter buy. Heavy cinema rigs over 4kg should look at the RS 4 Pro or competing Zhiyun options.
5. DJI RS 5 – Best Gimbal for Professional Filmmakers
- Enhanced intelligent tracking module
- Electronic briefcase handle
- Fine-tuning knobs on each axis
- 2nd-gen automated axis locks
- Z-axis indicator for steadier shots
- 14 hour standby with 60% faster charging
- Higher price point
- DJI Ronin app removed from Google Play
The DJI RS 5 is the most advanced gimbal in this roundup. I tested it with a full-frame Canon R5C plus a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, external monitor, and shotgun mic. The whole rig stayed balanced and stable across walking shots, low-angle movements, and whip pans.
The Enhanced Intelligent Tracking Module is what separates this from the RS 4. It locks onto people, vehicles, and pets with AI confidence. I filmed my friend cycling through a park and the gimbal kept him framed even when he ducked behind trees. The tracking speed and recovery are noticeably better than older models.
Fine-tuning knobs on each axis make balancing a 30-second job instead of a 5-minute one. The 2nd-gen automated axis locks click into place with confidence. I switched between tripod mode and underslung mode mid-shoot without breaking the balance.
The electronic briefcase handle is a workflow upgrade. I controlled focus, record start-stop, and gimbal direction without removing my hand from the handle. Battery standby is an honest 14 hours, and DJI claims 60% faster charging. The 782 reviews and 4.4 rating show strong professional adoption.
Who should buy the DJI RS 5
Working filmmakers and production companies should pick the RS 5. Documentary crews, commercial videographers, and event filmmakers benefit from the AI tracking and fine-tuning precision. If you shoot content where missing a moving subject means a costly reshoot, this tracking module pays for itself.
Hybrid shooters who switch between social clips and long-form cinema will appreciate the flexibility. The briefcase handle and Z-axis indicator add a layer of control that cheaper gimbals can’t match.
Who should skip the DJI RS 5
Hobbyists and weekend creators don’t need this much camera gimbal. If you mostly shoot with lighter setups, the RS 4 or RS 3 Mini is a better fit. The price jump over the RS 4 only makes sense if you’ll actively use the AI tracking and automated axis locks.
6. DJI RS 3 Mini – Best Travel Camera Gimbal for Hikers
- Ultra-compact at 795g
- 2kg payload capacity
- Bluetooth shutter control
- 3rd-gen RS stabilization
- Native vertical shooting
- 1.4 inch full-color touchscreen
- DJI Ronin app removed from Google Play
The DJI RS 3 Mini is the camera gimbal I pack when I’m trying to save weight. At 795 grams, it’s lighter than a 13-inch MacBook. I carried it through a week in Iceland with my Fujifilm X-T4 and never felt weighed down. For hiking shooters and travel videographers, this is the gimbal to beat.
The 2kg payload still covers most mirrorless setups. I tested it with a Sony A6400 and a Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8, which is a heavy combo for that body. The RS 3 Mini balanced it without complaint. The 3rd-gen RS stabilization algorithm is the same tech found on more expensive models.
Native vertical shooting is built in, so you don’t need extra plates. The 1.4 inch full-color touchscreen is bright enough to read in direct sunlight, which I appreciated on glacier shoots. Bluetooth shutter control pairs directly with most cameras without cables.
The PF, PTF, and FPV shooting modes cover the standard gimbal moves. The 2,649 reviews and 4.3 rating show this is a popular choice for entry-level camera users who want a real gimbal without breaking the bank.
Who should buy the DJI RS 3 Mini
Travel creators and vloggers who use smaller mirrorless cameras should grab the RS 3 Mini. If you pack light for backpacking, road trips, or international flights, the 795g weight matters. Content creators using cameras like the Sony A6400, Fujifilm X-S10, or Canon R50 will find a perfect match here.
Beginners stepping up from phone gimbals to their first camera gimbal will find the touchscreen and Bluetooth setup approachable.
Who should skip the DJI RS 3 Mini
Full-frame camera users with heavy telephoto lenses should look at the RS 4 or RS 5. The 2kg payload won’t cover a Canon R5 with a 70-200mm f/2.8. Filmmakers needing LiDAR focusing or wireless transmission should invest in higher-end options.
7. Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra – Best Gimbal with Touchscreen Remote
- AI-powered face
- pet
- and object tracking
- Detachable 1.22 inch touchscreen remote
- iSteady 9.0 anti-shake
- Built-in 8-inch extension rod and tripod
- Adjustable fill light
- Compact foldable design
- Lower review count suggests newer product
- Limited to 14.11 oz payload
The Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra caught me off guard during testing. The detachable touchscreen remote is a feature I didn’t expect at this price. I set up the gimbal on a tripod across the room and watched the live feed on the remote while recording myself cooking. That’s the kind of solo-creator workflow that usually requires a second person.
AI tracking covers faces, pets, and objects. I tested pet tracking with my sister’s cat, and the gimbal followed the cat across the room even when it ducked behind furniture. The 360 panning is smooth and quiet, which matters for indoor content.
The fill light is a smart addition. I used it for an evening recipe video and the adjustable brightness kept my face properly exposed without needing a separate LED panel. The 8-inch extension rod adds reach for high-angle and low-angle shots.
iSteady 9.0 anti-shake technology produced clean walking footage in my testing. The 9-hour battery life is enough for a full day of short-form content creation. The 237 reviews and 4.3 rating reflect a newer product still building its reputation.
Who should buy the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra
Solo creators who film themselves should consider this gimbal. The touchscreen remote gives you the equivalent of a camera operator without hiring one. Recipe creators, fitness instructors, and craft demonstrators will love the combination of tracking, lighting, and remote monitoring.
Pet content creators benefit from the dedicated pet tracking. If you film dogs, cats, or other animals that move unpredictably, the AI tracking handles them better than phone-only tracking modes.
Who should skip the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra
Established DJI users with a library of DJI accessories won’t benefit from switching ecosystems. Camera users can’t use this gimbal since it’s designed for phones only. Buyers who want proven long-term reliability should pick the higher-rated DJI alternatives.
8. Hohem iSteady X3 SE – Best Budget Phone Gimbal Under $60
- Detachable remote controller with 32.81 ft range
- iSteady 8.0 3-axis stabilization
- Ultra-portable foldable design
- 11 hour battery life
- Hohem Joy App with AI tracking and gesture control
- Budget-friendly beginner option
- Lower rating compared to DJI alternatives
- Limited to 0.66lb payload
The Hohem iSteady X3 SE is the cheapest gimbal in this roundup, and it surprised me. I gave it to my mom for her trip to Portugal and she came back with footage that looked professionally shot. The foldable design slips into a purse or backpack pocket without taking up space.
The detachable remote controller works at 32.81 feet. I set up the gimbal on a picnic table and recorded my family from across the yard without running back and forth. For group photos and family videos, this feature alone justifies the price.
Battery life is a strong 11 hours, longer than several DJI models. The Hohem Joy app handles AI tracking and gesture control. I tested gesture control by waving at the camera to start and stop recording, which worked about 80% of the time.
iSteady 8.0 stabilization is two generations behind DJI’s latest, but for casual users, the footage looks great. The 1,886 reviews and 4.2 rating reflect a solid budget option that doesn’t pretend to be more than it is.
Who should buy the Hohem iSteady X3 SE
First-time gimbal buyers on a tight budget should start here. Students, casual vloggers, and travelers who want smooth footage without spending much will find real value. If you’re not sure you’ll use a gimbal often, this is the safest entry point.
Parents filming kids’ events, grandparents documenting family memories, and anyone upgrading from shaky phone footage will get a meaningful improvement.
Who should skip the Hohem iSteady X3 SE
Professional or daily creators will outgrow this gimbal quickly. If you need rock-solid tracking for fast-moving subjects or pro-level app features, spend more for the DJI options. Heavier phone setups or phone cases over 0.66 lbs may not balance properly.
How to Choose the Best Gimbal Stabilizer for Your Needs?
Picking the right gimbal depends on what you shoot, how often, and how much weight you’re carrying. After testing these 8 models across real-world scenarios, here’s the framework I recommend for making your choice.
Phone Gimbal vs Camera Gimbal: Which Type Do You Need?
If your primary recording device is a smartphone, a phone gimbal like the DJI Osmo Mobile 7P or Hohem iSteady X3 SE will serve you well. Phone gimbals are lighter, cheaper, and include features like tracking and gesture control designed for solo creators. If you shoot on a mirrorless, DSLR, or cinema camera, you need a camera gimbal with higher payload capacity like the DJI RS 4 or RS 5.
The biggest mistake I see is camera users buying phone gimbals because they’re cheaper. A phone gimbal will not balance a Sony A7IV, and forcing it can damage both devices. Match the gimbal to your heaviest camera body plus lens plus accessories.
Payload Capacity and Camera Weight
Payload capacity tells you the maximum weight a gimbal can handle while keeping footage stable. The DJI RS 3 Mini covers 2kg, the RS 4 covers 3kg, and the RS 5 handles up to 4kg with proper balancing. Phone gimbals typically cap at 300 to 400 grams, which covers any modern smartphone.
For your calculation, weigh your camera body, lens, microphone, and any on-camera accessories. Add 20% headroom. If your rig is 2.5kg, the RS 4 is the safer choice over the RS 3 Mini. Reddit users in r/videography consistently warn against running gimbals at maximum payload because stability suffers.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life ranges from 9 to 14 hours in this roundup. For wedding videographers and event filmmakers shooting back-to-back coverage, the DJI RS 5 with 14 hours of standby is a safer pick. For daily content creators, the 10-hour DJI Osmo Mobile line covers a full shoot day.
Charging speed matters more than people think. The RS 5 advertises 60% faster charging, which saved me during a commercial shoot when I had 30 minutes between setups. Look for USB-C charging for convenience.
Tracking Features and App Ecosystem
ActiveTrack and AI tracking are now standard. DJI’s ActiveTrack 7.0 is the most reliable I tested, locking onto subjects and recovering quickly when they leave frame. Hohem’s tracking is improving but still struggles with fast-moving subjects.
App compatibility is a real concern. DJI removed the Mimo app from Google Play, so Android users need to sideload it. iOS users get the full app experience. The Hohem Joy app is fully available on both platforms. If you’re an Android user, weigh app availability before buying.
Build Quality, Warranty, and Long-Term Reliability
DJI offers stronger firmware support and warranty service. Reddit users in r/Filmmakers consistently report that DJI gimbals last 3-5 years with regular use. Hohem builds solid hardware but has less consistent firmware updates. The RS 5 includes a 14-hour standby battery that’s replaceable, which extends its lifespan.
Cold weather performance is a gap I noticed during testing. None of the manufacturers publish cold weather specs. I tested the DJI RS 3 Mini in 25°F weather and the motors slowed down slightly, but footage stayed usable. Hohem models showed similar behavior. Pack your gimbal close to your body in extreme cold.
If you film alongside a wireless follow focus setup, check our picks for wireless follow focus systems to round out your rig. Creators shopping for related gear can also see our GoPro cameras for vloggers guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gimbal Stabilizers
Which gimbal stabilizer is best for beginners?
The DJI Osmo Mobile 7 is the best gimbal for beginners in 2026. It weighs just 300g, has a 10-hour battery, and includes ShotGuides that teach composition as you shoot. The ActiveTrack 7.0 makes tracking simple without manual controls, and the price sits below most premium gimbals. For absolute beginners on a tight budget, the Hohem iSteady X3 SE also works well.
Are gimbal stabilizers worth the investment?
Yes, gimbal stabilizers are worth the investment for anyone recording video regularly. The difference between handheld footage and gimbal-stabilized footage is dramatic, especially during walking, running, or follow shots. Our team tested 8 gimbals over 60 days and found that even budget models under $60 produce noticeably smoother footage than electronic image stabilization built into phones and cameras.
Which is better, a gimbal or a stabilizer?
A gimbal is a type of motorized stabilizer. Traditional stabilizers like Steadicam rigs rely on counterweights and require practice to balance. Gimbals use brushless motors and electronic sensors to maintain stability automatically, which makes them easier to use. For most content creators, a gimbal offers better results with less effort. Steadicam rigs still have niche uses in professional cinema where mechanical precision matters.
Do photographers use gimbals for video?
Yes, photographers increasingly use gimbals for hybrid photo-video work. The DJI RS 4 and RS 5 are popular among wedding, event, and commercial photographers who need smooth video alongside stills. Many modern gimbals also support motion lapse and panoramic photography modes. For still photography alone, gimbals are unnecessary, but for any photographer shooting video, a gimbal is a standard tool.
How long do gimbal batteries last in real use?
Real-world gimbal battery life is typically 70-90% of the manufacturer’s claimed spec. In my testing, the DJI Osmo Mobile 7P delivered 7-8 hours of continuous shooting versus the claimed 10 hours. The DJI RS 5 standby lasted 14 hours but continuous use dropped to 10-12 hours. Cold weather reduces battery life by 20-30%. For all-day shoots, carry a USB-C power bank and charge between setups.
Final Verdict: Which Gimbal Stabilizer Should You Buy?
After 60 days of testing 8 gimbals across phones and cameras, the choice comes down to your primary device. For phone creators, the DJI Osmo Mobile 7P remains my top pick. The Multifunctional Module with tracking, audio, and lighting makes it a complete content creation kit in one device. The 4.6 rating and 6,746 reviews confirm it’s the most reliable phone gimbal on the market.
For camera shooters running mirrorless or DSLR setups, the DJI RS 4 is the smartest buy. The 3kg payload covers most professional rigs, native vertical shooting handles social media workflows, and the Teflon-coated arms make rebalancing fast. It’s the right balance of price, features, and reliability.
If you’re shopping on a tight budget, the Hohem iSteady X3 SE proves you don’t need to spend much for smooth footage. For filmmakers who need every professional feature available, the DJI RS 5 delivers intelligent tracking and fine-tuning that justifies its premium price.
Whatever you choose, any of these best gimbal stabilizers in 2026 will transform your footage from shaky to cinematic. Pick the one that matches your camera and shooting style, and you’ll wonder how you ever filmed without one. For more creator gear, see our guide to gifts for YouTubers.