Looking to level up your mobile videography? A good smartphone gimbal can transform shaky home videos into smooth, professional-looking footage. Hohem is a big name in the game, and their iSteady M7 and M6 series gimbals are incredibly popular choices for content creators, vloggers, and anyone who loves capturing life’s moments with their phone. But with several models across both lines, deciding between the Hohem iSteady M7 vs M6 can feel a bit overwhelming.
Don’t sweat it! We’re here to break down the differences and help you pick the perfect Hohem gimbal for your needs. We’ll explore what makes each model tick, highlighting their unique features, pros, cons, and user impressions. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Hohem iSteady M7 or M6 is your ideal creative companion.
Let’s dive into the best Hohem iSteady gimbals on the market!
Product Reviews
1. hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, Phone Gimbal…
This Hohem iSteady M7 model truly stands out with its innovative detachable touchscreen controller and magnetic AI tracker. Imagine having a mini control center right at your fingertips, letting you frame shots and track subjects from up to 10 meters away. It’s a game-changer for solo creators, ensuring your content is always on point and perfectly stable.
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Key Features:
- Detachable 1.4-inch touchscreen controller for remote operation and real-time previews.
- Magnetic AI Tracker with enhanced 100% resolution for precise subject tracking.
- iSteady 9.0 Anti-Shake Technology for buttery-smooth 3-axis stabilization and 360° rotation.
- 12-Hour Battery Life with reverse charging capability to power your phone.
- Built-in Extendable Aluminum Rod (up to 7.6 inches) for dynamic perspectives.
- 360 RGB Lighting with CCT and RGB modes, adjustable remotely.
- 1.1lbs (500g) Payload capacity and accessory compatibility (lenses, mics, fans).
- Universal Smartphone Compatibility (fits 95% of phones, 2.28″ to 3.54″).
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Pros:
- Superior AI tracking and remote touchscreen control offer unmatched flexibility.
- Excellent stabilization ensures professional-grade footage.
- Integrated lighting and extension rod add significant creative versatility.
- Robust payload capacity supports various smartphone setups.
- Can charge your phone on the go, a huge plus for long shoots.
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Cons:
- Battery life (12 hours) is good, but some M6 models offer more.
- Price point might be higher due to advanced features.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the convenience of the detachable remote and the accuracy of the AI tracking, making vlogging and solo shoots a breeze. The built-in lighting is a frequently praised addition for improving video quality in different environments.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, 3-Axis Gimbal…
Another strong contender in the Hohem iSteady M7 vs M6 debate, this M7 variant focuses on intuitive control and versatile shooting angles. Its detachable remote with a full-color touchscreen brings real-time preview and control right to your hand, making complex shots feel effortless.
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Key Features:
- Detachable remote with 1.4-inch full-color touchscreen for intuitive control and real-time preview.
- Robust built-in extension pole for creative high and low-angle shots.
- Integrated RGB and CCT fill light for flexible front and rear illumination, with remote brightness/color control.
- Professional orthogonal 3-axis design with 360° infinite pan rotation and 325° wide tilt range.
- 12-hour battery life with reverse charging support for your phone.
- Broad phone compatibility including latest iPhones and Samsung Galaxy models.
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Pros:
- Detachable touchscreen simplifies controls and shot monitoring.
- Integrated extension pole and fill light enhance creative options.
- Impressive 360° pan rotation offers ultimate shooting freedom.
- Long battery life with reverse charging is great for extended use.
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Cons:
- Lacks explicit mention of the magnetic AI tracker found in other M7 models, potentially relying solely on touch tracking.
- 12-hour battery life is decent, but not the longest in the Hohem lineup.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the smooth stabilization and the convenience of the remote control. The built-in fill light is a major bonus for those shooting in varying lighting conditions, providing a professional touch.
- See it on Amazon here
3. hohem Adjustable Sling Handgrip Gimbal Sling Handle for…
While not a gimbal itself, this adjustable sling handgrip is an essential accessory for anyone serious about optimizing their Hohem iSteady M6 or M7 experience. Its ergonomic design dramatically reduces arm fatigue, allowing you to shoot for longer periods comfortably and achieve those crucial low-angle shots with enhanced stability.
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Key Features:
- Ergonomic design for a comfortable and secure non-slip grip.
- Enhances stability and control, reducing hand fatigue.
- Portable and lightweight, easy to carry with your gear.
- Specifically designed for hohem M6, M7, and MT2 gimbals.
- Supports up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) and features a longer arm bracket for versatility.
- Quick and easy installation with no additional tools needed.
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Pros:
- Significantly improves comfort and extends shooting duration.
- Boosts stability for smoother, more precise movements.
- Lightweight and compact, making it travel-friendly.
- Compatible with both M6 and M7 series gimbals.
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Cons:
- An additional purchase, not included with the gimbal.
- Only compatible with specific Hohem gimbal models.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this sling handgrip for its ability to transform their shooting experience, making long sessions much more manageable and enabling professional-looking low-angle footage without strain.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, Magnetic…
This Hohem iSteady M7 takes AI tracking to the next level, making it a standout choice for dynamic content creators. Its upgraded on-device AI can track not just people, but also pets, buildings, and even cars, directly through your phone’s native camera or any live streaming app. This expanded tracking capability sets it apart, offering incredible flexibility for diverse filming scenarios.
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Key Features:
- Upgraded On-Device AI for tracking various subjects (people, pets, buildings, cars) with native camera and apps.
- Detachable Touchscreen Remote for easy target selection (double tap/drag-select) and up to 10-meter control range.
- Upgraded 500g Payload capacity and three expansion ports for professional accessories.
- 360 Lighting Colors with integrated RGB and CCT fill light, remotely controllable.
- Built-in Extension Pole for high and low-angle shots.
- New safety locks design for secure AI tracker attachment.
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Pros:
- Advanced AI tracking works seamlessly with native camera and third-party apps.
- Detachable touchscreen remote offers precise and intuitive control.
- Higher payload capacity allows for more robust phone setups and accessories.
- Comprehensive lighting options enhance visual quality.
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Cons:
- Battery life not explicitly stated in features, though typical M7 is 12 hours.
- May be considered premium-priced due to its cutting-edge AI features.
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User Impressions: Users are particularly impressed with the versatility of the AI tracking, noting how it adapts to different subjects flawlessly. The ability to use it with native camera apps and live streams is a huge selling point, making it a favorite for many.
- See it on Amazon here
5. hohem iSteady M6 Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone,…
When it comes to the Hohem iSteady M7 vs M6, the M6 Kit truly shines as a feature-packed alternative, particularly with its innovative AI tracker that works without Bluetooth or app limitations. This means you can get incredible face and body tracking simply with gestures, giving you unparalleled freedom and ease when shooting.
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Key Features:
- AI Tracker with adjustable CCT/RGB fill light (no Bluetooth/App required) and gesture control.
- 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm for unparalleled smoothness.
- Unlimited 360° Inception mode and wide rotation angles (335° for roll/pitch).
- Large 0.88 lbs (400g) payload with four expansion ports for accessories.
- 18-Hour Long Lasting Battery Life with reverse charging.
- Multifunctional Joystick for easy sports mode, ultra-wide angle, zoom, focus, and A-B movement.
- 0.91-inch OLED display for real-time status updates.
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Pros:
- Revolutionary AI tracking without app dependence offers ultimate freedom.
- Superior 18-hour battery life for all-day shooting.
- Enhanced 7th-Gen stabilization delivers incredibly smooth footage.
- Inception mode provides dynamic, creative shot possibilities.
- Integrated fill light is a major convenience for various lighting conditions.
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Cons:
- Payload (0.88 lbs/400g) is slightly less than some M7 models.
- Doesn’t have the detachable touchscreen remote found in M7 series.
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User Impressions: This gimbal is highly praised for its exceptional battery life and the “set-and-forget” convenience of its app-free AI tracking. Users love the advanced stabilization and the creative possibilities opened up by the Inception mode.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Hohem iSteady M6 Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer 3-Axis…
This version of the Hohem iSteady M6 Kit truly understands the needs of modern content creators, integrating a magnetic fill light with an AI vision sensor for flexible “Follow You” capabilities. It’s perfect for ensuring you’re always perfectly lit and in frame, whether you’re using your front or rear camera.
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Key Features:
- Magnetic fill light with AI vision sensor for flexible “Follow You” (front/rear camera).
- iSteady 7.0 stabilization algorithms for shake-free creations.
- 400g payload, compatible with most smartphones.
- OLED Display for quick visual checks of gimbal status, battery, and mode.
- Ultra-Wide-Angle Shots Made Easy with unobstructed view when phone faces roll motor.
- Versatile Control Wheel for roll axis rotation, focus, and cold/warm/RGB light adjustment.
- AI Tracking in all mobile apps for full camera control.
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Pros:
- Magnetic AI and fill light offer superior tracking and illumination.
- iSteady 7.0 stabilization provides flawless, smooth footage.
- OLED display offers convenient real-time information.
- Designed for optimal ultra-wide-angle shooting.
- Versatile control wheel streamlines adjustments.
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Cons:
- Battery life not explicitly listed, but typical M6 is 18 hours.
- AI vision sensor might rely on phone placement for optimal “Follow You” flexibility.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the integrated lighting and smart AI tracking, which simplifies shooting significantly. The OLED display is a big hit for its clarity and ease of use, keeping users informed about their gimbal’s status at a glance.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Hohem iSteady M6 Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, 3-Axis…
The core Hohem iSteady M6 model is a robust and reliable choice for anyone seeking top-tier stabilization and long-lasting performance. Its standout feature is the intuitive 0.91-inch OLED display, which puts all critical gimbal statuses right in front of your eyes, ensuring you’re always aware of your settings and battery life without fumbling through apps.
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Key Features:
- 0.91 inch OLED display for quick checks of gimbal parameters, Bluetooth, battery, and mode.
- Up to 400g Payload capacity with three powerful motors and four 1/4″-20 UNC ports for accessories.
- Reverse-Charge Technology and up to 18 hours of continuous battery usage.
- iSteady 7.0 stabilization algorithms for precise, shake-free footage.
- Versatile Control Wheel for roll axis rotation, focus, and light adjustments (if external light is used).
- Buttons for A-B motion for motion timelapse shooting without app/Bluetooth.
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Pros:
- Clear OLED display offers excellent usability and transparency.
- Impressive 18-hour battery life with convenient reverse charging.
- Strong 400g payload capacity supports a range of smartphones and accessories.
- Advanced iSteady 7.0 stabilization ensures professional-grade video.
- Manual A-B motion for timelapses is a fantastic feature for creative shots.
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Cons:
- This base model doesn’t include the built-in AI tracker or fill light found in the “Kit” versions.
- Requires external lighting if you need fill light for your shots.
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User Impressions: Many users praise the M6 for its rock-solid stabilization and impressive battery longevity. The OLED screen is consistently highlighted as a valuable feature for quick status checks, making it a reliable workhorse for everyday content creation.
- See it on Amazon here
Hohem iSteady M7 vs M6: Key Differences & Your Choice
So, when looking at the Hohem iSteady M7 vs M6, what’s the bottom line?
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Hohem iSteady M7 Series: Generally represents the newer, more premium models. Their standout features often include a detachable touchscreen remote for enhanced control and real-time preview, and frequently more advanced magnetic AI tracking that can track a wider variety of subjects (not just people) and sometimes even work with native camera apps. They might have a slightly higher payload capacity (around 500g) but a slightly shorter battery life (around 12 hours).
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Hohem iSteady M6 Series: These gimbals, especially the “Kit” versions, offer incredible value with top-tier features. The M6 Kit models boast an innovative AI tracker that often works without Bluetooth or app limitations, a superb 18-hour battery life, and a built-in OLED display for quick status checks. While their payload capacity is typically 400g (slightly less than M7), their 7th-Gen iSteady stabilization is just as impressive.
Which one should you pick?
- Go for an M7 if: You prioritize ultimate remote control and real-time visual feedback via a detachable touchscreen, and desire the most advanced AI tracking capabilities that work seamlessly across various apps and subjects. If a slightly shorter battery life (12 hours) isn’t a deal-breaker and you appreciate the higher payload, the M7 is your go-to.
- Opt for an M6 (especially a Kit model) if: Battery life is paramount (18 hours is fantastic!), you love the convenience of an app-free AI tracker, and an OLED display for quick status checks appeals to you. The M6 Kit still offers superb stabilization and integrated lighting, making it an excellent all-rounder for serious content creators on a budget or those who need long shooting sessions.
Ultimately, both series offer fantastic stabilization and features. Your choice depends on whether the M7’s cutting-edge remote display and versatile AI or the M6’s longer battery life and app-free AI tracking align better with your workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the main difference between Hohem iSteady M7 and M6 series gimbals?
A1: The main differences lie in their control methods, AI tracking capabilities, and battery life. M7 models often feature a detachable touchscreen remote and more advanced AI tracking (sometimes compatible with native camera apps) with around 12 hours of battery. M6 models (especially the Kits) boast an OLED display, an innovative AI tracker that can work without Bluetooth/app, and an impressive 18 hours of battery life.
Q2: Do these gimbals work with both iPhone and Android phones?
A2: Yes, generally all Hohem iSteady M7 and M6 gimbals are designed for universal smartphone compatibility. They feature adjustable clamps that fit a wide range of phone sizes, including the latest iPhone and Android flagships. Always check the specific product’s clamping range for your phone model.
Q3: What is “AI Tracking” and how does it help me?
A3: AI Tracking uses artificial intelligence to automatically follow a designated subject (like a person, pet, or object) as it moves. This frees you from manually controlling the gimbal, allowing you to focus on your performance or capturing the moment, ensuring your subject always stays in the frame and in focus.
Q4: Can I use external microphones or lights with these gimbals?
A4: Yes! Many Hohem iSteady M7 and M6 models, particularly the “Kit” versions, come with multiple expansion ports (e.g., 1/4″-20 UNC threads) allowing you to attach accessories like external microphones, LED fill lights, and even cooling fans to enhance your professional video setup.
Q5: What is “iSteady 7.0” or “iSteady 9.0” anti-shake technology?
A5: These numbers refer to Hohem’s proprietary stabilization algorithms. Higher numbers (like 7.0 or 9.0) indicate newer, more advanced algorithms that provide even smoother and more stable footage, effectively counteracting shakes and jitters from your movements for cinematic results.
Q6: How long do the batteries last, and can they charge my phone?
A6: Battery life varies: Hohem iSteady M7 models typically offer around 12 hours, while many Hohem iSteady M6 models boast an extended 18-hour battery life. Both series commonly feature “reverse charging,” allowing you to use the gimbal’s battery to charge your smartphone, which is incredibly handy during long shoots or when you’re on the go.
Q7: Is the detachable remote control necessary, or can I just use the gimbal’s built-in controls?
A7: The detachable remote, found primarily on M7 models, offers added convenience and versatility, especially for solo vlogging or remote shooting, letting you control the gimbal from a distance and even preview your shot. However, all Hohem gimbals have intuitive on-device controls (joysticks, buttons, sometimes an OLED screen) that are perfectly capable for most everyday shooting scenarios.
