Insta360 Flow Vs Dji Osmo Mobile 6 Is The Dji Still Worth It

Choosing a smartphone gimbal in 2024 means navigating a rapidly evolving landscape. The DJI Osmo Mobile series has long dominated the market with its reliable stabilization and polished software. But Insta360’s entry with the Flow marks a serious challenge—offering bold design choices, AI-powered tracking, and seamless integration with action-oriented creators. So when comparing the Insta360 Flow and the DJI Osmo Mobile 6, is the DJI still the go-to choice?

This isn’t just about specs on paper. It’s about how each device performs in daily use—on city walks, vlogging trips, family events, or fast-paced adventures. Let’s break down the key differences and see which gimbal earns its place in your bag.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice is how each gimbal feels in hand. The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 maintains a familiar ergonomic profile—compact, balanced, and built for quick deployment. Its foldable arms make it easy to stash in a jacket pocket, and the magnetic mounting system (with optional Magnetic Phone Clamp) allows near-instant attachment for spontaneous shots.

In contrast, the Insta360 Flow takes a more futuristic approach. It features a telescopic handle that extends to position the phone higher, giving you cleaner low-angle shots without crouching. The build is slightly bulkier, but the extended grip improves stability during active movement. It also integrates a built-in stand—a small but meaningful detail for hands-free recording.

Tip: If you frequently shoot solo vlogs, the Flow’s extendable handle can eliminate the need for additional tripods in casual scenarios.

DJI wins on portability; Insta360 counters with versatility. For travelers who prioritize pack size, the Osmo Mobile 6 has the edge. For creators who value dynamic framing and self-recording flexibility, the Flow’s design offers tangible benefits.

Stabilization Performance

At their core, both gimbals deliver excellent 3-axis stabilization. Walking, jogging, or navigating uneven sidewalks—the footage remains smooth and jitter-free. However, subtle differences emerge under stress.

The Osmo Mobile 6 uses DJI’s RockSteady 3.0 and HorizonSteady stabilization modes. HorizonSteady is particularly impressive, keeping the horizon level even during aggressive rotation or tilting movements. This is invaluable when filming while turning corners or moving through tight spaces.

The Insta360 Flow leverages its own algorithm tuned for action-style shooting. While equally capable in standard conditions, it shows slight drift during prolonged lateral movement. That said, its performance in dynamic environments—like cycling or light hiking—is commendable, especially considering its larger form factor.

“Gimbal stability isn’t just about eliminating shake—it’s about preserving natural motion without over-correction.” — Marcus Lin, Mobile Cinematography Trainer

Real-World Example: Urban Vlogging Test

A creator filmed a 15-minute walk through downtown streets using both gimbals back-to-back. On cobblestone paths and crowded sidewalks, the Osmo Mobile 6 maintained tighter framing and less micro-jitter. The Flow delivered smoother wide turns but required minor post-crop due to slight horizon tilt during rapid panning. For professional-grade results, DJI edged ahead—but the difference was marginal for social media content.

Smart Features and Tracking

This is where the Insta360 Flow shines. It includes AI-powered subject tracking that works independently of your phone’s processor. Using a front-facing sensor array, it detects and follows your face even if you move out of frame and return. No app dependency. No lag from phone-based tracking.

DJI relies on its Mimo app for ActiveTrack 5.0, which is highly refined but limited by your phone’s camera view. If you step out of shot, tracking stops. You must re-initiate it manually. While reliable, it lacks the autonomy of the Flow’s hardware-driven solution.

The Flow also introduces gesture controls. A simple palm raise or peace sign triggers recording or starts tracking—ideal for solo creators. The Osmo Mobile 6 supports some gestures via the app, but they’re less responsive and require enabling multiple settings.

Feature	Insta360 Flow	DJI Osmo Mobile 6
Subject Tracking	Hardware-based AI, no app needed	App-dependent (ActiveTrack 5.0)
Gesture Control	Yes, palm/peace sign detection	Limited, app-based
Horizon Leveling	Software correction	HorizonSteady (up to 45° tilt)
Built-in Stand	Yes	No
Quick Magnetic Mount	No	Yes (with accessory)

Battery Life and Charging

Battery endurance matters when you're out all day. The Insta360 Flow boasts up to 14 hours of use—significantly more than the Osmo Mobile 6’s 6.5 hours. This isn’t a typo. Insta360 prioritized longevity, making it ideal for travel vlogs or full-day shoots without charging access.

However, the Flow takes about 2.5 hours to recharge fully. The Osmo Mobile 6 charges in just 2 hours and supports pass-through charging, meaning you can power your phone while filming (with compatible cables). This feature is critical for long live streams or GPS-heavy apps like navigation or time-lapse.

Tip: If you plan extended outdoor shoots without power, the Flow’s battery life gives it a decisive advantage. For urban creators with access to charging, DJI’s faster charge cycle may suffice.

Usability and Workflow Integration

DJI’s ecosystem remains unmatched. The Mimo app is intuitive, feature-rich, and tightly integrated with the hardware. Timelapse, hyperlapse, panorama, and story mode templates streamline content creation. Plus, DJI’s firmware updates consistently add functionality over time.

Insta360’s companion app (Insta360 GO) is improving but still feels secondary to its action cameras. Some users report occasional sync delays or UI hiccups. That said, the Flow’s standalone operation—especially for tracking—reduces reliance on the app, which can be a plus for minimalists.

One underrated aspect: setup speed. With the Osmo Mobile 6 and a magnetic clamp, attaching your phone takes seconds. The Flow requires manual balancing and clamping every time, adding 10–15 seconds per deployment. Over a day of shooting, that adds up.

Checklist: Choosing the Right Gimbal for You

• Choose the Insta360 Flow if: You shoot solo vlogs, value long battery life, want gesture control, and prefer an extendable handle for better framing.
• Choose the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 if: You prioritize compactness, need fast setup, rely on advanced app features, or film in dynamic motion with frequent direction changes.
• Consider the magnetic add-on for DJI if you hate fumbling with phone mounts.
• Test both with your heaviest phone case—some large phones exceed weight limits or cause imbalance.
• Check for firmware updates regularly—both brands improve performance post-launch.

Is the DJI Still Worth It?

Yes—but with caveats. The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 remains the most polished, well-rounded option for creators who value reliability, compact design, and ecosystem maturity. Its stabilization is class-leading, and the software experience is seamless. For most users, especially those already in the DJI ecosystem, it’s still the default recommendation.

But the Insta360 Flow isn’t just competitive—it redefines what a smartphone gimbal can do. Its autonomous tracking, superior battery life, and thoughtful ergonomics appeal to a new generation of creators who want less friction and more automation. It’s not perfect—bulkier, slower to deploy, and less refined in software—but it points to the future.

If you’re upgrading from an older Osmo model, staying with DJI makes sense. But if you’re new to gimbals or frustrated by app-dependent tracking and short battery life, the Flow deserves serious consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Insta360 Flow track pets or moving objects?

Currently, the Flow is optimized for human face and upper-body tracking. While it may follow pets intermittently, performance is inconsistent. DJI’s ActiveTrack handles non-human subjects slightly better due to more mature algorithms.

Does the Osmo Mobile 6 work with iPhones?

Yes, fully compatible with iPhone models, including Pro devices. Use the optional Magnetic Phone Clamp for fastest attachment. Note: Older iPhone cases may interfere with magnetic alignment.

Which gimbal is better for YouTube vlogs?

For talking-head vlogs with smooth walking shots, both perform well. The Flow’s extendable handle helps achieve flattering angles without a tripod. The Osmo Mobile 6 excels in quick cuts and dynamic scenes. Your workflow preference will decide the winner.

Final Verdict

The rivalry between the Insta360 Flow and DJI Osmo Mobile 6 reflects a shift in mobile filmmaking. DJI represents refinement—years of iteration culminating in a near-flawless tool. Insta360 represents innovation—willing to sacrifice compactness for smarter, more autonomous features.

The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is still worth it, especially for users who value portability, instant setup, and proven performance. But the Insta360 Flow proves that competition drives progress. If you want longer battery, independent tracking, and a fresh approach to vlogging ergonomics, the Flow isn’t just an alternative—it’s a legitimate upgrade path.

🚀 Ready to choose your next gimbal? Try both in person if possible—or rent one for a weekend. Real-world use beats specs every time. Share your experience and help others find their perfect match!