Ever tried shooting a video with your smartphone, only to end up with shaky, wobbly footage that makes you dizzy? You’re not alone! Our phones have incredible cameras these days, but handheld recording often falls short of that smooth, professional look. That’s where a good smartphone gimbal comes in, transforming your everyday videos into cinematic masterpieces.
Hohem has made a name for itself in the world of mobile stabilization, offering a range of gimbals that promise steady shots and creative freedom. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Well, you’ve landed in the perfect spot! We’re diving deep into the world of Hohem gimbals, focusing on what makes each one tick. If you’re looking for a comprehensive hohem isteady mobile plus review or just trying to find the best Hohem mobile stabilizer, keep reading. We’ve rounded up seven of their top contenders to help you make an informed decision and elevate your mobile videography game.
Let’s get those cameras rolling!
1. hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone,…
The Hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus is a fantastic entry point for anyone serious about improving their smartphone videos without breaking the bank or navigating a steep learning curve. What truly makes this gimbal stand out is its innovative detachable remote controller, letting you step into your own shots or capture dynamic angles from up to 32 feet away. Coupled with its built-in extendable rod and the cutting-edge iSteady 8.0 anti-shake system, it’s a versatile tool that helps beginners and casual users achieve impressively smooth and professional-looking footage with ease.
- Detachable Remote Controller: Control your shots remotely up to 32 feet away.
- Advanced iSteady 8.0 Technology: Delivers ultra-smooth, stable footage even in fast-paced scenarios.
- Extendable Rod: Built-in 8-inch selfie stick for varied perspectives.
- Compact and Foldable: Weighs only 0.85 lbs, ultra-portable.
- Hohem Joy App Integration: Features AI tracking and gesture control for hands-free operation.
- 11-Hour Long Battery Life: Extended shooting time with quick 2-hour charging.
- Beginner-Friendly: Easy to use, designed for professional-grade content without a steep learning curve.
- One-Hand Operation: Seamless switching between landscape and portrait modes.
Pros:
– Excellent portability and lightweight design.
– Detachable remote offers great flexibility for solo creators.
– Long battery life for extended shooting sessions.
– Intuitive and user-friendly, ideal for novices.
– Effective stabilization for smooth video.
Cons:
– Payload limit might be restrictive for very large or heavy phones with thick cases.
– Extension rod needs to be retracted after use to prevent deformation.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise its portability and the convenience of the detachable remote, calling it a “game-changer” for vlogging and travel. Many appreciate how easy it is to set up and start shooting, making it a favorite for those new to gimbals.
2. hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone (2024 Updated)
This 2024 updated version of the hohem iSteady Mobile Plus truly redefines what you can capture with your smartphone. Its star feature is the “Ultra-Wide-Angle Feature,” which smartly eliminates motor interference that often plagues wide shots, letting you capture a broader, unobstructed view with a simple trigger press. Combined with the enhanced iSteady 7.0 stabilization and a robust 13-hour battery that doubles as a power bank, this gimbal is built for serious content creators who need reliability and creative flexibility on the go.
- Ultra-Wide-Angle Feature: Eliminates motor interference for broader, unobstructed views.
- Enhanced iSteady 7.0 Stability: Delivers cinematic-grade, uninterrupted video with 20% increased motor torque.
- Hohem Joy App Integration: Offers one-click “Moment” video templates like Inception, CloneMe, Timelapse, and Dolly Zoom.
- 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation Mode: Features a “creative inception mode” for 360° vertical rotations.
- 13-Hour Long Lasting Power: Extended battery life, also functions as a power bank.
- Universal Compatibility: Supports a wide range of iPhones and Android smartphones.
Pros:
– Dedicated ultra-wide-angle mode is a significant advantage for specific shots.
– Improved motor strength handles larger, heavier smartphones effortlessly.
– Extensive creative modes available through the Hohem Joy app.
– Long battery life with convenient power bank functionality.
– Robust stabilization for professional-looking footage.
Cons:
– Some advanced features might require a bit of a learning curve with the app.
– Might be overkill for very casual users who just need basic stabilization.
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the ultra-wide-angle capability and the incredibly smooth footage. The battery life is consistently highlighted as a major plus, allowing for all-day shooting without anxiety.
3. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone (2022 Updated)
The 2022 update of the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus remains a formidable tool for mobile filmmakers, bringing an upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake technology to the forefront. This model focuses heavily on delivering incredibly stable and smooth footage across various scenarios, from daily vlogging to intense sports shooting. It’s designed for those who aspire to professional mirror movements and want a reliable gimbal that can transform shaky home videos into captivating, fluid content. Its intuitive “Sport Mode” further sets it apart for capturing fast-paced action.
- Upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake: Ensures incredibly stable and smooth multi-scene shots.
- Hohem Joy App Integration: Offers “Moment” video templates, Inception, Fantastic Rotation, CloneMe, Panoramic Video, Timelapse, and Dolly Zoom.
- 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation Mode: Allows for 360° vertical phone rotation for creative “inception” shots.
- Professional Director Features: Basic zoom/focus control, pan and tilt tracking/locking modes, 3/4 screw hole for accessories.
- Sport Mode and Perfect Balance: Optimized for smooth shots during extreme movements like running or cycling.
- 13-Hour Long Lasting Power: Functions as a power bank for your phone.
- Universal Compatibility: Wide range of iPhone and Android phone support.
Pros:
– Excellent anti-shake performance, especially with iSteady 6.0.
– Sport mode is highly effective for dynamic action shots.
– Robust app features for creative filming.
– Long battery life with power bank capability.
– Versatile for various shooting scenarios.
Cons:
– May not have the latest anti-shake tech (compared to iSteady 7.0 or 8.0).
– No explicit mention of ultra-wide-angle motor interference solution.
User Impressions: Customers often remark on the significant improvement in video stability and the ease of use with the Hohem Joy app. The Sport Mode receives particular praise for capturing clear footage during active scenarios.
4. hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer,…
The hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit is more than just a gimbal; it’s a comprehensive setup designed for vloggers and content creators who need to be ready for anything. Its standout feature is the magnetic fill light, offering three color temperatures and ten brightness levels, making it a godsend for low-light environments. Paired with iSteady 7.0 stabilization and an ultra-wide-angle mode that truly works, this kit ensures your footage is not only stable and smooth but also perfectly lit and creatively composed, even when you’re on the go.
- Magnetic Fill Light: Detachable, offers 3 color temperatures and 10 brightness levels for various lighting conditions.
- Multiple Creative Modes: 600° Inception Mode for panoramic shots without an app, various multi-functional ports.
- Max Payload 280g: Increased motor torque (20%) to handle heavier smartphones.
- 13-Hour Long-lasting & Vertical Shot Master: Ultra-long battery life, reverse charging, rapid vertical filming switch.
- iSteady 7.0 & Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode: Cinematic stability and effortless ultra-wide-angle shots without motor obstruction.
- Phone Mounting & Balancing Tips: Clear instructions for optimal setup.
Pros:
– Integrated magnetic fill light is incredibly convenient and enhances video quality.
– High payload capacity for larger phones.
– Rapid vertical shooting is a huge time-saver.
– Excellent stabilization with iSteady 7.0 and an effective ultra-wide mode.
– Long battery life and power bank feature.
Cons:
– The kit might be slightly pricier than the standalone Mobile Plus models.
– Fill light battery life (60 minutes) is shorter than the gimbal’s.
User Impressions: Users love the added value of the fill light, describing it as “essential” for professional-looking videos, especially in challenging lighting. The ease of switching to vertical mode is also frequently highlighted as a major convenience for social media content.
5. hohem iSteady M6 Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone,…
For those seeking the pinnacle of mobile videography, the Hohem iSteady M6 Kit is a game-changer. What truly sets it apart is the innovative “AI Tracker with Adjustable Fill Light,” which can track faces and bodies without Bluetooth or app limitations, ensuring your subject is always perfectly framed. With its 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm, “Unlimited Shooting Angle” for 360° vertical rotation, and a colossal 18-hour battery life, this gimbal is built for serious content creators who demand advanced features, unparalleled stability, and complete creative freedom.
- AI Tracker with Adjustable Fill Light: Hands-free face/body tracking without Bluetooth/app, adjustable CCT/RGB fill light.
- 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm: Upgraded 3-Axis stabilization and iSteady 7.0 anti-shake for unparalleled smoothness.
- Unlimited Shooting Angle: Newly developed “Inception” mode for infinite 360° vertical phone rotation.
- Redefine Mobile Photography: Large load capacity (0.88 lbs), four expansion ports for accessories (mics, LEDs).
- 18-Hour Long Lasting Battery & Reverse Charging: Longest battery life in the lineup, doubles as a phone power bank.
- 0.91-inch OLED Display: Real-time power and working status updates.
Pros:
– AI tracking is incredibly smart and works independently.
– Superior stabilization with 7th-Gen iSteady tech.
– Longest battery life for extended professional shoots.
– High payload and multiple expansion ports for a complete setup.
– Intuitive OLED display for quick status checks.
Cons:
– Higher price point compared to other Hohem models.
– Might be considered overkill for casual users.
User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the AI tracking feature, calling it “revolutionary” for solo content creation. The robust build and extended battery life also receive high praise, cementing its reputation as a reliable professional tool.
6. Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone,3-Axis Gimbal…
The Hohem iSteady M7 is designed for creators who demand intuitive control and expansive shooting capabilities. Its defining feature is the “detachable remote with a 1.4-inch full-color touchscreen,” offering not just control but also real-time preview, which is incredibly handy for precise adjustments. Combined with a robust built-in extension pole for dynamic high and low-angle shots, integrated RGB and CCT fill light, and 360° infinite pan rotation, the M7 provides a comprehensive solution for achieving professional-grade cinematic footage with unparalleled flexibility.
- Detachable Remote with 1.4-inch Full-Color Touchscreen: Intuitive control and real-time preview.
- Robust Built-in Extension Pole: Supports creative shooting at various angles, including aerial and pet’s eye views.
- Integrated RGB and CCT Fill Light: Flexible illumination for front/rear shots, remote brightness/color temperature control.
- Professional Orthogonal 3-Axis Design: Provides 360° infinite pan rotation and a 325° wide tilt range.
- 12-Hour Battery Life & Reverse Charging: All-day shooting capability, doubles as a phone’s backup power source.
- Broad Phone Compatibility: Supports a wide range of current and past iPhone and Android models.
Pros:
– Touchscreen remote offers superior control and visual feedback.
– Built-in extension pole adds versatility for unique shots.
– Integrated fill light is a major plus for diverse lighting conditions.
– Infinite pan rotation allows for incredibly dynamic footage.
– Solid battery life with charging capability.
Cons:
– The detachable remote is a separate piece to keep track of.
– Might be slightly heavier due to the integrated features.
User Impressions: Users love the remote’s touchscreen, saying it makes operating the gimbal incredibly easy and precise. The integrated light and extension pole are also frequently praised for enhancing versatility and convenience during shoots.
7. Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, Magnetic…
Another fantastic iteration of the Hohem iSteady M7, this model takes smart tracking to the next level with its “Upgraded On-Device AI.” Unlike app-dependent systems, this AI can track any subject (people, pets, buildings, cars) and works seamlessly with your phone’s native camera and all your live streaming apps. Add to that a “Detachable Touchscreen Remote” for simple target selection, a higher “Upgraded 500g Payload” capacity, and stunning “360 Lighting Colors,” and you have a powerhouse gimbal designed for ultimate creative control and professional results.
- Upgraded On-Device AI: Tracks any subject (not just people) with native camera and app compatibility.
- Detachable Touchscreen Remote: Easy double-tap/drag-select target selection with up to 10m control range.
- Upgraded 500g Payload: Higher load capacity for professional accessories like phone lenses, mics, and fill lights.
- 360 Lighting Colors: Integrated RGB and CCT fill light with seamless remote brightness/color temperature control.
- Built-in Extension Pole: Sturdy support for high and low-angle shots.
- New Safety Locks: Keeps the AI tracker securely attached.
Pros:
– Highly versatile AI tracking that works with native camera and other apps.
– Increased payload capacity for heavier phone setups and accessories.
– Touchscreen remote provides excellent control and precision.
– Rich, customizable lighting options with 360 RGB colors.
– Extension pole enhances shooting versatility.
Cons:
– Might be a premium option in terms of price.
– Advanced features may take some time to fully master.
User Impressions: The upgraded AI tracking receives universal acclaim, with users calling it “uncannily accurate” and a “game-changer” for diverse content. The ability to track with native apps is also a huge plus, simplifying workflows for many creators.
Conclusion
Picking the right Hohem iSteady gimbal depends entirely on your needs, budget, and creative ambitions. Whether you’re a beginner seeking simple, stable shots with the iSteady X3 SE Plus, a vlogger wanting comprehensive kit features like the Mobile Plus Kit, or a professional aiming for advanced AI tracking and high payload capacity with the iSteady M6 or M7, Hohem has a solution for you. Each hohem isteady mobile plus review and model we’ve covered offers unique strengths, all promising to elevate your smartphone videography from shaky amateur clips to smooth, cinematic narratives. So, go ahead, choose your weapon, and start capturing your world like a pro!
FAQ Section
Q1: What is a smartphone gimbal and why do I need one?
A: A smartphone gimbal is a motorized stabilizer that holds your phone steady, counteracting shaky hand movements. You need one to achieve smooth, professional-looking video footage, especially when walking, running, or moving, transforming your casual recordings into cinematic content.
Q2: How do Hohem gimbals compare to other brands?
A: Hohem gimbals are highly regarded for their balance of affordability, robust stabilization technology (like iSteady 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0), and innovative features such as AI tracking, detachable remotes, and integrated fill lights. They offer strong competition to other leading brands by providing excellent value and performance.
Q3: What’s the main difference between Hohem iSteady 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0 stabilization?
A: These numbers represent generations of Hohem’s anti-shake technology, with higher numbers indicating more refined and powerful stabilization algorithms. iSteady 8.0 (found in the X3 SE Plus) is their most advanced, offering superior smoothness in even more dynamic scenarios, while iSteady 7.0 (Mobile Plus 2024, M6) offers excellent performance with increased motor torque, and 6.0 (Mobile Plus 2022) is a solid, reliable foundation.
Q4: Can I use a Hohem gimbal with any smartphone?
A: Hohem gimbals are designed for universal compatibility with most smartphones, including iPhones (like the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max) and a wide range of Android models (Samsung Galaxy, Huawei, etc.). However, always check the specific gimbal’s payload capacity and clamp width to ensure it supports your phone, especially if you use a bulky case.
Q5: How long does a Hohem gimbal battery typically last?
A: Battery life varies by model, but most Hohem gimbals offer impressive longevity, ranging from 11 hours (iSteady X3 SE Plus) to up to 18 hours (iSteady M6 Kit). Many models also feature reverse charging, allowing them to double as a power bank for your smartphone, ensuring you don’t run out of juice mid-shoot.
Q6: What is AI tracking on a Hohem gimbal and how does it work?
A: AI tracking is a feature that uses artificial intelligence to automatically identify and follow a subject (person, pet, object) within the camera’s frame. Some Hohem models (like the iSteady M6 and M7) have an on-device AI vision sensor, meaning it works independently without Bluetooth or app connection, ensuring your subject stays in focus even if they move around.
Q7: Are Hohem gimbals easy to use for beginners?
A: Yes, many Hohem gimbals, particularly models like the iSteady X3 SE Plus and the iSteady Mobile Plus, are designed with beginner-friendliness in mind. They often feature intuitive controls, simple balancing procedures, and user-friendly apps (Hohem Joy) with one-click templates, making it easy for newcomers to achieve professional-looking results quickly.
Q8: How do I balance my phone on a Hohem gimbal?
A: Balancing is crucial for optimal performance. Generally, you loosen the knob on the gimbal arm, slide the phone clamp to the leftmost position, and rotate the clamp to securely hold your phone. Then, adjust the phone’s position (sliding it up/down or left/right within the clamp) until it’s roughly balanced and level, allowing the motors to work efficiently without strain. Always balance your phone before powering on the gimbal.
