Tired of shaky, unprofessional-looking smartphone videos? You’re not alone! In today’s mobile-first world, capturing smooth, cinematic footage on your phone is a game-changer for content creators, vloggers, travelers, and anyone who loves to document life’s moments. That’s where a high-quality gimbal stabilizer comes in, and the hohem iSteady mobile plus range has consistently been a top contender.
These devices transform your phone into a professional camera rig, offering incredible stability, creative shooting modes, and extended battery life. But with several models and even alternatives on the market, how do you pick the best one for your needs? We’re here to help you navigate the options and find the perfect hohem iSteady mobile plus or a fantastic alternative that will elevate your mobile videography.
Let’s dive into our top picks!
1. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Gimbal Stabilizer (2024 Edition)
The 2024 updated version of the hohem iSteady mobile plus sets a new standard for smartphone stabilization. What truly makes this model stand out is its innovative Ultra-Wide-Angle feature, which intelligently moves the gimbal motor to eliminate interference in your wide shots. This means you can truly capture those expansive landscapes or group photos without the gimbal motor getting in the way – a common frustration with older models. Coupled with the powerful iSteady 7.0 stabilization, it’s designed to deliver buttery-smooth footage even with larger, heavier phones like the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-Wide-Angle Feature: Eliminates motor interference for clear, expansive shots.
- Enhanced iSteady 7.0 Stability: Delivers cinematic-grade, uninterrupted video with 20% increased motor torque.
- Hohem Joy App: Offers “Moment” video templates, Inception, CloneMe, Panoramic, Timelapse, and Dolly Zoom modes, plus face/object tracking.
- 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation Mode: Achieve 360° spontaneous rotation (Inception mode) for dynamic, professional-looking shots.
- 13H Long Lasting Power & Universal Compatibility: Extended battery life and power bank function, compatible with a wide range of iPhones and Android phones.
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Pros:
- Superior stabilization with iSteady 7.0.
- Innovative ultra-wide-angle mode is a major improvement.
- Robust compatibility with large smartphones.
- Excellent battery life with reverse charging.
- Feature-rich app enhances creativity.
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Cons:
- Might be overkill for very casual users.
- Requires a bit of a learning curve to master all app features.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the significant improvements in stability and the groundbreaking ultra-wide-angle mode, calling it a game-changer for mobile filmmakers. Many appreciate its ability to handle larger phones with ease and the creative potential unlocked by the Hohem Joy app.
2. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
The hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit takes the already impressive Mobile Plus and adds a crucial accessory for content creators: a magnetic fill light. This kit is perfect for vloggers and anyone shooting in varied lighting conditions, ensuring your subject is always well-lit. The fill light offers multiple color temperatures and brightness levels, magnetically attaching to the gimbal for ultimate convenience. Beyond the light, it retains the core strengths of the Mobile Plus, including robust stabilization and versatile creative modes.
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Key Features:
- Magnetic Fill Light: Includes a detachable fill light with 3 color temperatures and 10 brightness levels (up to 60 mins battery life).
- Multiple Creative Modes & Multi-Functional Ports: Features 600° Inception Mode and ports for accessories like extension rods and microphones.
- Max Payload 280g & Universal Compatibility: Handles heavy smartphones with a 20% increased motor torque.
- 13H Long-lasting & Vertical Shot Master: Ultra-long battery life, power bank function, and quick vertical shooting switch.
- iSteady 7.0 & Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode: Provides cinematic stability and eliminates motor obstruction for wide shots.
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Pros:
- Integrated fill light is excellent for low-light shooting.
- Strong iSteady 7.0 stabilization.
- Highly versatile with accessory ports.
- Quick switch to vertical mode is very convenient.
- Long battery life is a big plus.
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Cons:
- Slightly higher price point due to the included light.
- The fill light is an additional item to charge.
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User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of the built-in light, finding it indispensable for vlogging and indoor shooting. The overall stability and ease of use, combined with the additional lighting, make it a favorite for those serious about their mobile content.
3. DJI Osmo Mobile SE, 3-Axis Phone Gimbal
While our focus is on the hohem iSteady Mobile Plus, the DJI Osmo Mobile SE is a formidable alternative from a leading brand in gimbal technology. It shines with its incredible portability, magnetic quick-release design, and the updated ActiveTrack 6.0, which offers superior subject tracking. If you’re looking for a compact, intuitive gimbal with excellent tracking capabilities and seamless integration with the DJI ecosystem, the Osmo Mobile SE is definitely worth considering. Its user-friendly interface and robust app features make it a strong contender.
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Key Features:
- Portable, Foldable, and Magnetically Quick: Compact design with easy snap-in/out magnetic phone clamp.
- Stay on Point with ActiveTrack 6.0: Upgraded tracking tech for reliable subject following.
- Remote Control With Watch: Control gimbal and camera from Apple Watch via DJI Mimo app.
- Effortless Editing: ShotGuides and LightCut app templates for easy post-production.
- Smooth Footage: 3-axis stabilization with next-gen control algorithm.
- Landscape and Portrait: Seamless switching between horizontal and vertical shooting.
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Pros:
- Extremely portable and quick to set up.
- Best-in-class subject tracking.
- Magnetic clamp is incredibly convenient.
- Excellent app integration and editing features.
- Ergonomic, non-slip grip.
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Cons:
- Might be slightly pricier than some Hohem models.
- Battery life (not specified, but often less than Hohem’s 13H).
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User Impressions: Users praise the Osmo Mobile SE for its simplicity, quick setup, and the effectiveness of ActiveTrack. It’s often recommended for beginners and those who prioritize ease of use and portability for everyday shooting.
4. Hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone
The Hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus offers a compelling package, particularly for those who value versatility and remote control. Its standout feature is the detachable remote controller, allowing you to operate the gimbal from up to 32 feet away – perfect for solo vloggers, group shots, or creative angles. Furthermore, it boasts an 8-inch built-in extendable rod, transforming it into a selfie stick and offering unique perspectives. While not a hohem iSteady mobile plus, it provides excellent stabilization with iSteady 8.0 technology in a compact, travel-friendly design.
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Key Features:
- Detachable Remote Controller: Control shots remotely via Bluetooth up to 32 feet away.
- Advanced iSteady 8.0 Technology: Ensures ultra-smooth, stable footage even in fast-paced scenarios.
- Extendable Rod: Built-in 8-inch selfie stick for diverse shooting angles (low, high, group selfies).
- Compact and Foldable: Weighs only 0.85 lbs and folds easily for portability.
- Unlock your Creativity with the Hohem Joy App: Supports AI tracking and gesture control.
- 11-Hour Long Battery Life: Quick 2-hour charge for extended filming.
- Beginner-Friendly Stabilizer: Easy to use with one-hand operation for seamless landscape/portrait switching.
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Pros:
- Detachable remote is a fantastic feature for solo creators.
- Integrated extendable rod adds great versatility.
- Latest iSteady 8.0 stabilization for superior smoothness.
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- AI tracking and gesture control are very useful.
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Cons:
- Slightly shorter battery life compared to the Mobile Plus (11H vs 13H).
- Payload limit (0.66 lbs) might be less for very heavy phones with bulky cases.
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User Impressions: Users love the X3 SE Plus for its dual functionality as a gimbal and selfie stick, along with the convenience of the remote. It’s highly recommended for travelers and vloggers who need a flexible, all-in-one solution that’s easy to carry and operate.
5. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Gimbal Stabilizer (Classic Version)
This iteration, often referred to as the classic or 2022 updated version of the hohem iSteady mobile plus, remains a solid choice for those seeking reliable smartphone stabilization. It features the upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake technology, delivering impressive smoothness across various shooting scenarios. If you’re looking for a dependable, feature-rich smartphone gimbal without necessarily needing the absolute latest ultra-wide-angle optimization or a bundled light, this model provides excellent value. It’s a workhorse for daily recording, vlogs, and even sports.
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Key Features:
- Upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake: Provides stable and smooth multi-scene shots, eliminating blur.
- Hohem Joy App: Access to “Moment” video templates like Inception, Fantastic Rotation, CloneMe, Panoramic, Timelapse, and Dolly Zoom.
- 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation Mode: Inception mode allows 360° vertical phone rotation for creative effects.
- Professional Director Features: Basic zoom/focus control, pan and tilt tracking/locking modes, and a ¼ screw hole for accessories.
- Sport Mode and Perfect Balance: Optimized for fast-moving action, with highly sensitive 3-axis variable speed adaptation.
- 13H Long Lasting Power and Universal Compatibility: Extended battery life and power bank function, compatible with a wide range of iPhones and Android phones.
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Pros:
- Proven iSteady 6.0 stabilization is highly effective.
- Robust 13-hour battery life with charging capability for your phone.
- Excellent range of creative modes via the Hohem Joy App.
- Dedicated Sport Mode for dynamic shooting.
- Universal compatibility with most smartphones.
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Cons:
- Lacks the specific ultra-wide-angle optimization of the 2024 model.
- iSteady 6.0, while good, isn’t the absolute latest (7.0 or 8.0).
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User Impressions: Many users find this version to be an incredible value, praising its solid performance for everyday use and its ability to significantly improve video quality. It’s often recommended for those new to gimbals due to its straightforward operation and effective stabilization.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is a gimbal stabilizer and why do I need one for my smartphone?
A gimbal stabilizer is a device that uses motors and sensors to keep your smartphone level and steady, even when you’re moving. You need one to eliminate shaky footage, create smooth cinematic shots, and enable advanced filming techniques like hyperlapses, object tracking, and creative rotations that are impossible to do handheld.
Q2: How does the hohem iSteady Mobile Plus compare to other Hohem models like the iSteady X3 SE Plus?
The hohem iSteady mobile plus series (including the 2024 and classic versions) generally focuses on robust, traditional 3-axis stabilization with a strong emphasis on battery life and creative app features. The iSteady X3 SE Plus, while still a great stabilizer, adds unique features like an extendable rod and a detachable remote controller, making it more of an all-in-one vlogging tool for specific use cases. The “Plus” often indicates enhanced features or payload capacity within Hohem’s naming scheme.
Q3: Is the hohem iSteady Mobile Plus compatible with my iPhone 15 Pro Max / Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra?
Yes, most recent hohem iSteady mobile plus models, especially the 2024 updated version, are designed with increased motor torque and wider clamps to handle larger and heavier smartphones like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Always check the specific product’s payload capacity and phone clamp width for definitive compatibility.
Q4: What is the “iSteady” stabilization technology mentioned in the features?
“iSteady” refers to Hohem’s proprietary stabilization technology. Different versions (e.g., iSteady 6.0, 7.0, 8.0) indicate ongoing refinements and improvements in their motor algorithms and anti-shake capabilities, leading to even smoother and more precise footage with each iteration.
Q5: Can I use the Hohem Joy app with any Hohem gimbal?
The Hohem Joy app is designed to work with most Hohem smartphone gimbals. It provides advanced features like face/object tracking, various filming modes (Inception, Timelapse, Dolly Zoom), and editing templates. It’s recommended to download the app and ensure your gimbal model is supported for the full range of features.
Q6: How long does the battery typically last on a hohem iSteady Mobile Plus?
The hohem iSteady mobile plus models are known for their impressive battery life, often lasting up to 13 hours on a single charge. Many models also feature reverse charging, meaning you can use the gimbal’s battery to power up your smartphone, which is incredibly useful during long shooting sessions outdoors.
Q7: Is it easy for beginners to use a hohem iSteady Mobile Plus?
Yes! Hohem gimbals, including the hohem iSteady mobile plus series, are generally designed to be beginner-friendly. They often feature intuitive controls, quick balancing steps, and modes that simplify complex shots. The Hohem Joy app also has “Moment” templates that allow beginners to create professional-looking videos with just a few taps.
