Ever wondered how some people manage to capture such incredibly smooth, professional-looking videos with just their smartphone? The secret often lies in a fantastic piece of gear: a mobile gimbal. For aspiring vloggers, content creators, or just anyone wanting to elevate their family videos, a hohem gimbal isteady mobile 3-axis handheld stabilizer for smartphone is a game-changer. These clever devices eliminate shaky footage, making your videos look like they were shot on a much more expensive setup.
Hohem has made a name for itself by offering innovative and user-friendly smartphone gimbals that pack a punch without breaking the bank. But with several great options available, how do you pick the right one for your needs? We’re here to help! We’ve dived deep into 5 of the best Hohem iSteady models to give you the lowdown on their features, what makes them tick, and who they’re perfect for. Let’s get your mobile videography journey started!
1. hohem iSteady X3 SE Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, Phone…
The hohem iSteady X3 SE stands out as an incredibly user-friendly and budget-friendly option, making it a perfect entry point for anyone new to the world of smartphone gimbals. What truly sets it apart is its included detachable magnetic remote controller, giving you the freedom to capture selfies and videos from a distance – ideal for group shots or solo travel adventures where you can’t always reach your phone. Coupled with advanced iSteady 8.0 technology, this stabilizer promises remarkably smooth footage, even if you’re on the move, proving that professional-looking results don’t require a steep learning curve or a hefty investment.
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Key Features:
- Detachable magnetic remote controller for remote shooting (up to 32.81 feet).
- Advanced iSteady 8.0 3-axis stabilization for ultra-smooth footage.
- Portable and foldable design, weighing only 0.79 lbs.
- Seamless integration with the Hohem Joy App for AI tracking, gesture control, and creative templates.
- Long 11-hour battery life on a 2-hour charge.
- Beginner-friendly and budget-conscious design.
- High payload capacity (0.66 lbs) for various smartphones.
- Quick horizontal and vertical screen switching.
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Pros:
- Excellent stabilization for its price point.
- Extremely lightweight and travel-friendly.
- Remote control adds significant convenience for solo creators.
- Long battery life supports extended shooting sessions.
- Easy to set up and use, even for beginners.
- Versatile for both landscape and portrait shooting.
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Cons:
- Might lack some advanced features found in higher-end models.
- Payload capacity, while good, might be restrictive for very heavy phone/case combos.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the iSteady X3 SE for its ease of use and impressive stabilization for the price. Many highlight the remote control as a major bonus, making it easy to capture content solo. It’s often recommended as an ideal first gimbal, perfect for casual users and new vloggers.
2. hohem iSteady XE Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone…
The hohem iSteady XE Kit truly redefines portability without compromising on performance, making it the lightest 3-axis smartphone gimbal at just 259g – that’s roughly the weight of your smartphone! This pocket-sized powerhouse is perfect for creators who are always on the go, folding down to an incredibly compact form factor. But don’t let its size fool you; it boasts a powerful magnetic fill light with 10 levels of adjustable brightness, ensuring your shots are perfectly lit even in challenging conditions. This fill light can even rotate 180 degrees or function independently, offering incredible versatility for any shooting scenario.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-lightweight (259g) and highly compact, foldable design.
- Improved motor torques (+30%) for compatibility with larger smartphones.
- Magnetic fill light with 10-level adjustable brightness and 180-degree rotation.
- Upgraded iSteady 7.0 stabilization algorithm for smooth, anti-shake footage.
- Quick Roll Switch for instant landscape/portrait mode changes.
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Pros:
- Unbeatable portability; truly pocketable.
- Magnetic fill light is a brilliant, versatile addition for better lighting.
- Stronger motors accommodate a wider range of phones.
- Impressive stabilization for its size and weight.
- Quick mode switching enhances user experience.
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Cons:
- Battery life isn’t explicitly stated but might be less than heavier models.
- Might feel less robust than larger gimbals, though still durable.
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently amazed by the iSteady XE Kit’s tiny footprint and powerful performance. The built-in magnetic fill light is a major hit, offering convenience and enhancing video quality in low light. It’s often praised as the ultimate travel companion for smartphone videography.
3. Hohem iSteady V3 Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, 3-Axis…
The Hohem iSteady V3 stands out with its innovative AI tracking sensor, which liberates you from app connections or needing someone else to operate the camera. This magnetic AI module accurately tracks your movements, ensuring you’re always in frame, even with three fill light modes to conquer dim lighting. This hohem gimbal isteady mobile 3-axis handheld stabilizer for smartphone also features a detachable remote, a built-in tripod, and an extendable selfie stick, offering unparalleled versatility for solo filmmakers and group shots alike. It’s designed for those who want advanced features and maximum flexibility in their mobile video creation.
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Key Features:
- Magnetic AI tracking sensor with three fill light modes (no app connection needed).
- Detachable remote control (up to 32.8ft range).
- Integrated tripod and extendable selfie stick (max 205mm).
- iSteady 8.0 3-axis stabilization for clear, smooth footage.
- Supports gesture control and four gimbal working modes.
- Compact, foldable design with a long 13-hour standby time (2.5-hour charge).
- High payload capacity of 300g (0.66 lbs).
- Compatible with iOS/Android phones (width 58–98mm, thickness ≤ 12.5mm).
- Extensive pan (330°), roll (330°), and tilt (80°) ranges.
- Hohem Joy App for creative templates (Dolly Zoom, Timelapse).
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Pros:
- AI tracking without an app is a major convenience for solo creators.
- Integrated tripod and selfie stick eliminate the need for extra accessories.
- Excellent battery life for extended shoots.
- Robust stabilization ensures professional-grade video.
- Wide compatibility with various smartphones.
- Detachable remote adds flexibility.
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Cons:
- The AI tracking sensor is a separate module, albeit magnetic, which could potentially be misplaced if not attached.
- Might be slightly larger than the “XE” series due to integrated features.
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User Impressions: Users love the iSteady V3’s all-in-one design, particularly praising the convenience of the built-in tripod/selfie stick and the revolutionary AI tracking. It’s seen as a highly capable gimbal for those who want a versatile tool for vlogging, live streaming, and general content creation, simplifying complex shots.
4. hohem iSteady XE Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone (with different product_image)
This iteration of the hohem iSteady XE Kit truly ups the ante in stabilization, boasting an impressive 3 times more anti-shake performance than previous X series models, thanks to its re-upgraded iSteady 7.0 3-axis stabilization algorithm. What makes this version particularly compelling is its commitment to ease of use: it’s designed as the perfect first phone stabilizer for beginners, requiring no tedious leveling – just clip and shoot! Additionally, its integrated magnetic fill light, offering three color temperatures and ten brightness levels, ensures you’re always perfectly lit, whether for selfies or capturing others. This makes the XE a fantastic blend of cutting-edge stabilization and user-friendly design.
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Key Features:
- iSteady 7.0 3-axis stabilization providing 3 times more anti-shake performance.
- Magnetic fill light with 3 color temperatures and 10 brightness levels (60-minute battery life).
- “Quick Start, No Threshold” design for easy setup and use.
- Hohem Joy App integration for face/object tracking and creative templates.
- Lightest stabilizer on the market (0.57 lbs / 259g) with a foldable design.
- 30% increase in motor torque, supporting a max payload of 0.62 lbs.
- 8 hours of battery life.
- 1/4″ universal screw hole for accessories.
- One-button activation for Inception mode, phone rotation, and mode switching.
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Pros:
- Exceptional stabilization for its compact size.
- Integrated fill light is a major plus for versatile shooting conditions.
- Incredibly easy to set up, ideal for beginners.
- Extremely lightweight and portable.
- Stronger motors support a good range of smartphones.
- Intuitive controls and useful app features.
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Cons:
- 8-hour battery life, while good, is less than some other models on this list.
- Fill light battery life (60 mins) is separate and might need recharging more frequently than the gimbal itself.
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User Impressions: Users rave about this iSteady XE’s seamless stabilization and how simple it is to get started. The convenience of the magnetic fill light and the “no leveling required” setup are frequently cited as favorite features. It’s highly praised by those who want a reliable, easy-to-carry gimbal for everyday content creation.
5. hohem iSteady M6 Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone…
The hohem iSteady M6 Kit is the professional’s choice, packing a punch with its innovative AI Tracker that works flawlessly without Bluetooth or app connections, ensuring your subject is always perfectly framed. This top-tier hohem gimbal isteady mobile 3-axis handheld stabilizer for smartphone also features an adjustable CCT/RGB fill light, offering incredible control over lighting for any scenario, from cool tones to vibrant RGB ambient colors. What truly sets the M6 apart is its upgraded 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm, delivering unparalleled smoothness, and its unique “Inception” mode that allows for continuous 360° vertical rotation – a dream for dynamic, creative shots. With an 18-hour battery life and reverse charging, it’s built for all-day professional production.
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Key Features:
- Innovative AI Tracker for face/body tracking (no Bluetooth/App needed).
- Adjustable CCT/RGB fill light with cool, warm, and 360 RGB ambient colors.
- 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm (iSteady 7.0 anti-shake technology).
- Unlimited 360° vertical “Inception” mode shooting angle.
- Large load capacity (0.88 lbs) and four expansion ports for accessories (mic, LED lights).
- Multifunctional Joystick for easy control (sports mode, ultra-wide angle, zoom, focus, A-B movement).
- Impressive 18-hour long-lasting battery life with reverse charging.
- 0.91-inch OLED display for real-time status updates.
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Pros:
- Advanced AI tracking offers superior subject following.
- Versatile fill light with CCT and RGB options.
- Exceptional stabilization for the smoothest footage.
- “Inception” mode provides unique creative possibilities.
- Massive battery life with convenient reverse charging.
- High payload and multiple expansion ports for professional setups.
- OLED display provides useful real-time information.
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Cons:
- Higher price point compared to entry-level models.
- Its robust feature set and larger size might be overkill for casual users.
- Requires proper mounting and balancing to prevent motor overheating.
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User Impressions: Professionals and serious content creators absolutely love the iSteady M6 Kit. The AI tracking, superb stabilization, and the sheer number of creative possibilities (especially the Inception mode) are highly praised. Users appreciate the build quality, long battery life, and the ability to expand with accessories, making it a true workhorse for mobile filmmaking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is a 3-axis gimbal and why do I need one?
A 3-axis gimbal uses motors to stabilize your smartphone across three axes (pan, tilt, and roll). This means it actively counteracts any shakes, bumps, or unintended movements from your hand, resulting in incredibly smooth, cinematic footage. You need one if you want to eliminate shaky videos, improve video quality, and capture professional-looking content with your smartphone for vlogging, travel, or everyday moments.
Q2: How do I connect my smartphone to a Hohem gimbal?
Most Hohem gimbals connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth. You’ll typically download the “Hohem Joy” app, turn on your gimbal and phone’s Bluetooth, and then pair them within the app. The app often provides a clear, step-by-step guide for initial setup.
Q3: What is “AI tracking” in a gimbal, and how does it work?
AI tracking allows the gimbal to automatically detect and follow a subject (like a face or body) as it moves. This means you can film yourself or others without manually adjusting the gimbal. Hohem gimbals with AI tracking often use a built-in sensor or the phone’s camera via the app to identify and keep the subject perfectly centered in the frame.
Q4: Can I use a Hohem gimbal with any smartphone?
Hohem gimbals are generally compatible with a wide range of smartphones, both iOS (iPhone) and Android. However, each model has specific weight and size (width/thickness) limits. Always check the product specifications to ensure your particular phone, especially if it’s very large or in a bulky case, fits within the gimbal’s supported dimensions and payload capacity.
Q5: How long does the battery last on Hohem gimbals?
Battery life varies by model, but Hohem gimbals are known for their decent to excellent battery performance. As seen in our reviews, some models offer 8-11 hours, while premium models like the iSteady M6 boast an impressive 18 hours. This typically provides enough power for extended shooting sessions. Many also feature reverse charging, allowing you to power your phone from the gimbal.
Q6: Do I need the Hohem Joy app to use the gimbal?
While some basic functions (like manual stabilization) might work without the app, to unlock the full potential of your Hohem gimbal, including features like AI tracking (for models that require the app), gesture control, creative shooting modes (Dolly Zoom, Timelapse, Inception), firmware updates, and fine-tuning settings, you will need to use the Hohem Joy app.
Q7: What’s the difference between a 3-axis and a 1-axis or 2-axis gimbal?
A 3-axis gimbal provides stabilization across all three axes (pan, tilt, roll), offering the smoothest and most comprehensive shake reduction. A 1-axis gimbal only stabilizes one axis (usually tilt or roll), and a 2-axis gimbal stabilizes two axes (e.g., tilt and roll). For truly professional-looking, buttery-smooth video, a 3-axis gimbal is always recommended as it eliminates shake from every direction.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hohem gimbal isteady mobile 3-axis handheld stabilizer for smartphone really depends on your needs, budget, and how you plan to use it. Whether you’re a beginner just starting your mobile videography journey with the user-friendly iSteady X3 SE, a minimalist creator who values portability with the iSteady XE Kit, or a seasoned pro seeking ultimate versatility and advanced features with the iSteady M6 Kit, Hohem offers a fantastic solution.
Each of these gimbals brings something unique to the table, but they all share Hohem’s commitment to delivering smooth, stable footage that elevates your smartphone videos. Pick the one that resonates most with your creative ambitions, and get ready to capture some truly incredible moments!
