Ever wished your smartphone videos looked as smooth and professional as those shot with high-end cameras? You’re not alone! Shaky, blurry footage is a common problem when shooting handheld, but thankfully, a good smartphone gimbal can transform your mobile videography. Hohem is a brand that consistently delivers top-notch stabilizers, and their iSteady series, particularly the hohem gimbal iSteady Mobile Plus, has become a favorite among content creators, vloggers, and casual users alike.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into the best Hohem gimbals on the market, focusing on the popular hohem gimbal iSteady Mobile Plus and a few other stellar models that offer incredible value and performance. Get ready to banish shaky footage and unleash your inner cinematic genius!
Why a Hohem Gimbal is a Game-Changer
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s briefly touch on why investing in a Hohem smartphone stabilizer is such a smart move. These devices use advanced 3-axis stabilization technology to counteract unwanted movements, ensuring your shots remain incredibly smooth, even when you’re walking, running, or capturing dynamic scenes. They also come packed with smart features like tracking, various shooting modes, and impressive battery life, making professional-looking content more accessible than ever.
Ready to find your perfect match? Let’s explore the top contenders!
1. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
The original hohem gimbal iSteady Mobile Plus sets a high bar for smartphone stabilizers, offering a robust and reliable platform for capturing incredibly stable and smooth footage. It’s designed to make professional-level videography accessible to everyone, from daily vloggers to those shooting special events. Thanks to its advanced anti-shake technology, you can say goodbye to shaky videos and hello to cinematic fluidity. This model is perfect if you’re looking for a solid all-rounder that delivers on its promises.
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Key Features:
- Upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake Technology for incredibly stable shots.
- Hohem Joy App with “Moment” video templates (Inception, CloneMe, Panoramic, Timelapse, Dolly Zoom).
- 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation “Inception” mode for dynamic 360° rotations.
- Sport Mode for smooth filming during fast-paced action.
- Zoom/focus control and accessory screw hole (3/4 inch).
- 13-hour long-lasting battery life with reverse charging capability.
- Wide compatibility with most iPhones and Android phones (e.g., iPhone 15/14/13 series, Samsung Galaxy S22/S21, Huawei P50/P40).
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Pros:
- Excellent stabilization, even for dynamic movements.
- Feature-rich Hohem Joy App enhances creativity.
- Long battery life is ideal for extended shoots.
- Can charge your phone, acting as a power bank.
- “Inception” mode adds a unique, professional touch.
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Cons:
- May require some initial balancing for optimal performance.
- Some advanced features might have a slight learning curve for beginners.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise the iSteady Mobile Plus for its impressive stabilization and ease of use once balanced. Many highlight the creative modes within the Hohem Joy app as a significant bonus, turning everyday videos into something special. It’s often recommended as a great value-for-money option for budding videographers.
2. hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
Taking the fantastic foundation of the iSteady Mobile Plus, this “Kit” version elevates your mobile videography with thoughtful additions, most notably a magnetic fill light. If you frequently find yourself shooting in less-than-ideal lighting conditions or just want that extra pop for your vlogs, this kit is designed with you in mind. It’s an excellent option for content creators who need versatile lighting solutions on the go.
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Key Features:
- Magnetic Fill Light with 3 color temperatures (natural, cool, warm) and 10 brightness levels.
- Multiple creative modes, including 600° Inception Mode for panoramic shots without an app.
- Multi-Functional Ports for attaching accessories like extension rods, tripods, and microphones.
- Max Payload of 280g with 20% increased motor torque for heavier phones.
- 13-hour long-lasting battery life with reverse charging.
- Vertical shot master mode for quick switching to portrait format.
- iSteady 7.0 technology for cinematic-level stability.
- Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode to avoid motor obstructions in wide shots.
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Pros:
- Integrated fill light is a huge advantage for various lighting scenarios.
- Increased motor torque handles heavier phones with ease.
- Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode is excellent for unobstructed shots.
- Magnetic light is convenient and easy to use.
- Retains the long battery life and reverse charging capability.
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Cons:
- Slightly higher price point due to the included accessories.
- The fill light battery life (60 minutes) is shorter than the gimbal’s.
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User Impressions: Reviewers love the added versatility of the magnetic fill light, calling it a game-changer for indoor or night-time shooting. The improved iSteady 7.0 stabilization is also frequently praised, making it a favorite for vloggers who are constantly on the move and need crisp, shake-free video.
3. hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone
The Hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus is for those who prioritize portability and ease of use without sacrificing advanced features. This compact and foldable phone gimbal is a dream for solo creators and travelers, thanks to its built-in extendable rod and detachable remote control. If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly smartphone stabilizer that you can easily carry anywhere, this one should be high on your list.
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Key Features:
- Detachable Remote Controller for shooting up to 32 feet away.
- Advanced iSteady 8.0 Technology for ultra-smooth and stable footage.
- Built-in 8-inch Extendable Rod for versatile shooting angles (low-angle, high-angle, selfies).
- Compact and Foldable design, weighing only 0.85 lbs.
- Hohem Joy App with AI tracking and gesture control.
- 11-Hour Long Battery Life with 2-hour fast charging.
- Beginner-Friendly Stabilizer with one-hand operation and easy landscape/portrait switching.
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Pros:
- Extremely portable and travel-friendly.
- Remote control adds great convenience for solo shooting.
- Built-in extendable rod eliminates the need for a separate selfie stick.
- iSteady 8.0 offers top-tier stabilization.
- AI tracking via the app keeps subjects in focus hands-free.
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Cons:
- Slightly lower payload capacity compared to the Mobile Plus series.
- Battery life is good but a bit less than the 13-hour options.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the iSteady X3 SE Plus’s incredible portability and the convenience of the detachable remote. It’s frequently recommended for beginners due to its intuitive design and smooth learning curve. The extendable rod is also a big hit, providing surprising versatility for a compact gimbal.
4. hohem iSteady Mobile+ Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
This iteration of the hohem gimbal iSteady Mobile Plus kit is specifically tailored to address some common pain points in mobile videography, primarily focusing on ultra-wide-angle shooting and superior lighting. If you love capturing expansive scenes or need to ensure your frame is always clear of motor obstructions, this kit is a standout performer. It’s a fantastic option for those serious about their content creation.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode to eliminate motor blockages in your frame with a quick trigger action.
- Magnetic Adjustable Fill Light system with cold, warm, and natural light settings and ten brightness levels.
- Upgraded iSteady 7.0 Anti-shake technology with 20% more motor torque.
- 600° Inception Mode for unparalleled panoramic freedom and Sport Mode for fast-paced action.
- Extended 13-hour Battery Life, doubling as a power bank.
- Wide device compatibility with various iPhones (e.g., iPhone 15/14/13/12 Pro Max) and Samsung/Huawei models.
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Pros:
- Dedicated ultra-wide-angle mode is a major advantage for modern smartphones.
- Excellent magnetic fill light enhances shooting in diverse conditions.
- Robust iSteady 7.0 stabilization handles even larger phones easily.
- Long battery life and power bank function are highly practical.
- Inception and Sport Modes offer creative versatility.
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Cons:
- Might be overkill if you rarely use ultra-wide-angle lenses.
- Balancing can take a moment for larger phones initially.
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User Impressions: The ability to shoot in ultra-wide-angle without the gimbal motors getting in the way is a huge plus for many users. The magnetic fill light also receives high praise for its effectiveness and convenience. Many consider this mobile stabilizer a significant upgrade for serious vloggers and content creators due to its comprehensive feature set.
5. hohem iSteady M6 Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
For the ultimate mobile filmmaking experience, the Hohem iSteady M6 Kit is arguably Hohem’s most advanced smartphone stabilizer to date. This powerhouse features an innovative AI tracker that works without Bluetooth or app limitations, a remarkable 18-hour battery life, and an intuitive OLED display. If you’re a professional content creator or an enthusiast who demands the best performance and cutting-edge features, the iSteady M6 Kit is built to impress.
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Key Features:
- AI Tracker with Adjustable Fill Light (CCT/RGB) that works without Bluetooth or App connection.
- 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm for unparalleled stability and smoothness.
- Unlimited 360° “Inception” Mode and wide 335° rotation in other directions.
- Large 0.88 lbs payload capacity and four expansion ports for accessories (microphones, LED lights).
- Multi-functional Joystick for easy control of zoom, focus, sport mode, and ultra-wide-angle.
- Impressive 18-hour Long Lasting Battery Life with reverse charging.
- 0.91-inch OLED display for real-time status and power information.
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Pros:
- Groundbreaking AI tracker is a standout feature for solo shooting.
- Superior 7th-Gen iSteady stabilization.
- Exceptional 18-hour battery life, best in class.
- OLED display provides clear status updates.
- High payload and expansion ports make it highly versatile for professional setups.
- Unlimited 360° Inception mode is truly unique.
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Cons:
- Higher price point, but justified by its advanced features.
- Might be more complex for absolute beginners due to its professional-grade features.
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User Impressions: The iSteady M6 Kit consistently receives rave reviews for its revolutionary AI tracker, which users describe as incredibly accurate and reliable. The extended battery life and the smooth, professional footage it produces are also frequently highlighted. It’s seen as a powerful tool that significantly elevates mobile videography for serious creators.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a smartphone gimbal, and why do I need one?
A: A smartphone gimbal is a motorized device that uses sensors and motors to stabilize your phone, preventing shaky and blurry footage. You need one to capture smooth, professional-looking videos, especially when you’re moving, walking, or shooting dynamic scenes. It transforms everyday phone videos into cinematic quality.
Q: How do I balance my Hohem gimbal before use?
A: Balancing is crucial for optimal performance and to prevent motor strain. Generally, you loosen the knob on the gimbal arm, slide your phone into the clamp, and adjust its position (up/down, left/right) until it stays relatively level on its own without the motors powered on. Always balance your phone before powering on the gimbal. Refer to your specific Hohem model’s manual for detailed instructions.
Q: Are Hohem gimbals compatible with both iPhone and Android devices?
A: Yes, most Hohem gimbals are designed for universal compatibility. They typically support a wide range of smartphone sizes and weights, including the latest iPhones and popular Android models from Samsung, Google, Huawei, etc. Always check the maximum payload and phone clamp width specified for the particular model you’re interested in.
Q: What’s the “Inception Mode” on Hohem gimbals?
A: Inception Mode is a creative shooting feature that allows your phone to automatically rotate 360 degrees along a specific axis while filming. This creates a captivating, spinning effect often seen in professional films, adding a dramatic and dynamic flair to your videos. It’s a fantastic way to make your content stand out.
Q: How long does the battery last on Hohem gimbals, and can they charge my phone?
A: Battery life varies by model, but most Hohem gimbals offer excellent endurance, typically ranging from 11 to 18 hours on a single charge. Many models, like the hohem gimbal iSteady Mobile Plus and iSteady M6, also feature “reverse charging” capabilities, meaning you can use the gimbal’s battery to charge your smartphone while on the go – a lifesaver during long shooting sessions!
Q: What is AI Tracking, and how does it work on a Hohem gimbal?
A: AI Tracking is an advanced feature that allows the gimbal to automatically follow a designated subject (like a face or body) as it moves. Some Hohem models utilize the Hohem Joy app for this, while advanced models like the iSteady M6 feature a built-in AI vision sensor that works independently of the app and Bluetooth. It’s incredibly useful for solo content creators as it keeps you or your subject perfectly framed without manual intervention.
Q: Is it difficult for beginners to use a smartphone gimbal?
A: While there’s a slight learning curve, Hohem gimbals are generally designed with user-friendliness in mind. Models like the iSteady X3 SE Plus are particularly beginner-friendly. Basic balancing and operation are intuitive, and the accompanying Hohem Joy app often provides tutorials and simplified modes to help you get started quickly. With a little practice, you’ll be shooting smooth, professional-looking videos in no time!
Conclusion
Choosing the right smartphone gimbal can truly elevate your content, turning ordinary videos into cinematic masterpieces. Whether you’re a casual user looking to improve family videos or a dedicated vlogger aiming for professional quality, there’s a Hohem gimbal for you.
From the reliable hohem gimbal iSteady Mobile Plus that provides excellent core stabilization to the advanced iSteady M6 Kit with its revolutionary AI tracking, Hohem offers a range of options packed with innovative features. Consider your specific needs – portability, advanced lighting, extended battery life, or ultimate stabilization – and pick the model that best suits your creative aspirations. Happy shooting!
