In the dynamic world of mobile videography, choosing the right gimbal can make all the difference between shaky, amateur footage and smooth, professional-looking content. For years, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 has been a benchmark for many, praised for its tactile controls and robust performance. However, Hohem has emerged as a strong contender, consistently pushing boundaries with innovative features and user-friendly designs. If you’re weighing up options like the hohem isteady mobile plus vs zhiyun smooth 4, or simply exploring top-tier phone stabilizers, you’re in the right place.
This article takes a deep dive into some of Hohem’s most impressive smartphone gimbals, including the versatile Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus, highlighting what makes them stand out in a crowded market. While we won’t be doing a direct feature-by-feature battle for the hohem isteady mobile plus vs zhiyun smooth 4 in this review (as our focus is on these fantastic Hohem models), we’ll help you understand if a Hohem gimbal is the perfect fit for your mobile filmmaking ambitions, offering compelling features that rival, or even surpass, what you might expect from a classic like the Smooth 4. Let’s get your creative juices flowing and find the perfect stabilizer for your next masterpiece!
1. hohem iSteady X3 SE Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, Phone…
The hohem iSteady X3 SE stands out as an incredibly user-friendly and portable gimbal, perfect for those just dipping their toes into mobile videography or travelers who need a lightweight solution. Its pocket-sized, foldable design makes it a true grab-and-go companion, ensuring you’re always ready to capture life’s moments with buttery-smooth footage, thanks to its advanced iSteady 8.0 technology. What truly sets it apart for ease of use is the detachable magnetic remote controller, giving you freedom and flexibility like never before.
Key Features:
* Detachable magnetic remote controller for control up to 32.81 feet away.
* Advanced iSteady 8.0 Technology for upgraded 3-axis stabilization.
* Portable and foldable design, weighing only 0.79 lbs.
* Seamless integration with the Hohem Joy App for AI tracking, gesture control, and creative templates.
* 11-Hour Long Battery Life on a 2-hour charge.
* Beginner-friendly with easy-to-use controls.
* High payload capacity of 0.66 lbs, compatible with large-screen smartphones.
* Quick horizontal and vertical screen switching for social media content.
Pros:
* Extremely lightweight and compact, ideal for travel.
* Remote control adds significant convenience for solo creators.
* Excellent battery life for extended shoots.
* Very intuitive for new gimbal users.
* Affordable entry point into stabilized mobile video.
Cons:
* May feel less “pro” than heavier, more feature-rich gimbals.
* Payload capacity, while good for most phones, might be limiting for some accessories.
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise the iSteady X3 SE for its incredible portability and ease of setup. Many highlight the remote control as a game-changer for capturing group shots and hands-free vlogging. Users find the stabilization surprisingly effective for its size, making it a favorite for casual shooters and social media content creators.
2. Triple Cold Shoe Gimbal Microphone Mount, Mic Led Light…
While not a gimbal itself, this Triple Cold Shoe Gimbal Microphone Mount is an essential accessory for any mobile videographer looking to elevate their audio and lighting game. In the world of content creation, good sound and proper illumination can transform your video from ordinary to extraordinary. This compact, robust aluminum alloy mount provides the perfect solution, allowing you to attach a microphone and an LED light simultaneously to your existing smartphone gimbal. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about upping their production value, no matter if you’re comparing the hohem isteady mobile plus vs zhiyun smooth 4, or using any other popular gimbal.
Key Features:
* Made of quality aluminum alloy with CNC processing and anodized finish for durability.
* Compact size, weighing only 56 grams, doesn’t add significant burden.
* Triple cold shoe mounts allow simultaneous attachment of microphone and video light.
* Multiple 1/4 and 3/8 screw holes for additional accessories like mini tripods or magic arms.
* 1/4 socket on the bottom for wider compatibility.
* Compatible with most smartphone gimbals featuring a 1/4 screw hole on the bottom (e.g., Zhiyun Smooth 4, DJI Osmo Mobile, Hohem gimbals).
Pros:
* Significantly improves audio and lighting possibilities for mobile video.
* Extremely lightweight and compact.
* Durable, well-built construction.
* Highly versatile with multiple mounting options.
* Universal compatibility with many popular gimbals.
Cons:
* An accessory, so requires an existing gimbal.
* Might add a bit of bulk when fully loaded with accessories.
User Impressions: Videographers love this mount for its solid construction and the sheer convenience of attaching multiple accessories to their gimbal. Many users report a noticeable improvement in their video quality once they started using this mount for external mics and lights, making their mobile setup much more professional.
3. hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer,…
The hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit is designed for vloggers and content creators who demand more versatility and power from their mobile gimbal. This isn’t just about stabilization; it’s about unlocking creative potential. With its impressive 600° Inception Mode for mind-bending panoramic shots and the revolutionary magnetic fill light, the Mobile Plus ensures your subjects are always perfectly lit, even in challenging low-light conditions. It also boasts a significant motor torque increase and a 13-hour battery life, making it a powerhouse for all-day shoots. For those debating the hohem isteady mobile plus vs zhiyun smooth 4, the iSteady Mobile Plus certainly presents a compelling argument with its integrated light and raw power.
Key Features:
* Magnetic Fill Light with 3 color temperature settings and 10 brightness levels (up to 60 mins battery life).
* Multiple Creative Modes, including 600° Inception Mode (no app needed).
* Multi-Functional Ports for various accessories like extension rods and microphones.
* Max Payload of 280g (0.62 lbs) with 20% increased motor torque for heavier phones.
* 13-Hour Long-lasting Battery Life with reverse charging capability (power bank function).
* Rapid vertical shot switching by rotating the handle.
* iSteady 7.0 Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode for cinematic stability and unobstructed shots.
* Quick and easy phone mounting and balancing process.
Pros:
* Integrated magnetic fill light is a huge advantage for various shooting conditions.
* Exceptional battery life with convenient reverse charging.
* Robust payload capacity handles most modern smartphones with ease.
* Innovative Inception Mode and ultra-wide-angle optimization.
* Effortless switching between portrait and landscape modes.
Cons:
* Slightly heavier than some ultra-compact models.
* Initial balancing requires attention, though instructions are clear.
User Impressions: Users rave about the integrated fill light, calling it a game-changer for vlogging indoors or at night. The long battery life is consistently praised, allowing creators to shoot all day without worry. Many find the increased motor torque handles their larger phones without issue, appreciating the smooth, stable footage even in active scenarios.
4. hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, Phone Gimbal…
The hohem iSteady M7 takes mobile stabilization to the next level with its focus on advanced control and intelligent tracking. What truly sets it apart is the detachable 1.4-inch touchscreen controller and the magnetic AI tracker, offering unparalleled precision in following your subject without the need for an app. This makes it ideal for dynamic shoots where you need to be both behind and in front of the camera, ensuring perfect framing every time. Combine that with iSteady 9.0 anti-shake technology and 360° RGB lighting, and you have a professional tool for serious mobile content creation.
Key Features:
* Detachable 1.4-inch touchscreen controller for remote control up to 10 meters.
* Magnetic AI Tracker with 100% enhanced AI resolution for precise subject tracking (app-free).
* iSteady 9.0 Anti-Shake Technology with 3-axis 360° rotation for smooth footage.
* 12-Hour Battery Life & Reverse Charging feature.
* Built-in extendable aluminum rod (up to 7.6 inches/193mm) for dynamic perspectives.
* 360 RGB Lighting with CCT and RGB modes for customizable illumination.
* 1.1 lbs (500g) payload capacity and accessory compatibility (external lenses, mics, fans).
* Universal Smartphone Compatibility (fits 95% of phones, 2.28″ to 3.54″ width).
Pros:
* Advanced AI tracking is incredibly precise and works without an app.
* Detachable touchscreen controller offers full control and real-time previews remotely.
* Integrated extendable rod provides more versatile shooting angles.
* 360 RGB lighting is a premium feature for creative lighting.
* High payload capacity and wide compatibility with accessories.
Cons:
* Higher price point compared to entry-level gimbals.
* The array of features might be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
User Impressions: Professional videographers and serious vloggers laud the iSteady M7 for its robust build and high-end features. The AI tracker is a standout, consistently praised for its accuracy in keeping subjects in frame. The integrated lighting and extendable rod are also frequently highlighted as valuable additions for creating more polished and diverse content.
5. hohem iSteady V3 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, 3-Axis Phone…
The hohem iSteady V3 represents the pinnacle of compact, feature-rich smartphone gimbals, combining the best of portability with professional-grade capabilities. Its standout feature is the 2024 upgraded magnetic AI tracker, offering smooth, app-free face and body tracking that can be activated by simple gestures. This means you can be both the subject and the filmmaker effortlessly. Add to that an innovative detachable remote, a built-in extendable rod, and a magnetic fill light, and the iSteady V3 becomes an all-in-one powerhouse for travel, vlogging, and everyday content creation.
Key Features:
* Upgraded Magnetic AI Tracking for app-free face/body tracking with gesture control.
* Ultra-Smooth 3-Axis iSteady 8.0 anti-shake system with extended roll arm for wide-angle shots.
* Innovative Detachable Remote Controller for quick storage and magnetic handle charging.
* Integrated Extendable Rod (up to 8 inches) and Tripod for creative angles.
* Magnetic Fill Light with cold, warm, natural light options and side-wheel brightness adjustment (4%-100%).
* Long-lasting 13-Hour Battery for extended shooting sessions.
* Creative Shooting Modes with Hohem Joy App (panorama, timelapse, slow motion, Moment templates).
* Portable and Foldable Design for pocket-sized convenience.
Pros:
* Top-tier app-free AI tracking for ultimate convenience.
* Comprehensive feature set in a highly portable design.
* Detachable remote and integrated rod/tripod enhance versatility.
* Excellent battery life and versatile magnetic fill light.
* Ideal for solo content creators and travelers.
Cons:
* The array of features might require a learning curve to master fully.
* Premium price reflects its advanced capabilities.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the iSteady V3’s ability to seamlessly track subjects without an app, calling it a truly revolutionary feature for solo creators. Its compact size paired with the extensive features like the fill light and extendable rod make it a highly recommended choice for those who want professional results on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the main difference between a 2-axis and a 3-axis gimbal stabilizer?
A 2-axis gimbal stabilizes on two axes (usually tilt and roll), correcting for up-and-down and side-to-side movements. A 3-axis gimbal, however, adds a third axis (pan), correcting for left-and-right rotation as well. This provides superior stabilization, leading to much smoother and more professional-looking footage, especially during complex movements.
Q2: How important is payload capacity for a smartphone gimbal?
Payload capacity refers to the maximum weight a gimbal can safely and effectively stabilize. It’s crucial because if your phone (or phone with accessories like a case or external lens) exceeds the gimbal’s payload, it won’t be able to balance or stabilize properly. Always check your phone’s weight and add a little buffer for accessories when choosing a gimbal.
Q3: Can I use my phone’s native camera app with these Hohem gimbals?
Yes, most Hohem gimbals allow you to use your phone’s native camera app for basic stabilization. However, to unlock advanced features like AI tracking, specific shooting modes (e.g., inception, timelapse), gesture controls, and firmware updates, you’ll typically need to use the Hohem Joy app.
Q4: Is the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus a good alternative to the Zhiyun Smooth 4?
The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is definitely a strong contender if you’re comparing it to the Zhiyun Smooth 4. While the Smooth 4 is known for its physical controls and cinematic focus, the iSteady Mobile Plus offers modern conveniences like an integrated magnetic fill light, reverse charging, and advanced iSteady 7.0 stabilization. It’s designed for modern vloggers who need power, versatility, and excellent lighting in a single device, making it a very compelling alternative.
Q5: What are LSI keywords and why are they important for SEO?
LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are words and phrases that are semantically related to your main keyword. They aren’t just synonyms; they’re concepts and terms that frequently appear together in high-quality content about a particular topic. For example, for “smartphone gimbal,” LSI keywords might include “video stabilization,” “vlogging,” “mobile filmmaking,” “battery life,” and “AI tracking.” Using them naturally helps search engines understand the full context and relevance of your content, improving its ranking for a wider range of related queries.
Q6: What does “AI tracking” mean in a gimbal, and how does it benefit me?
AI tracking on a gimbal allows the device to automatically detect and follow a subject (like a face or body) as it moves, keeping it perfectly framed without manual intervention. This is a huge benefit for solo content creators, live streamers, and anyone who wants to record themselves without needing a separate camera operator. Some advanced models, like the Hohem iSteady V3 and M7, even offer app-free AI tracking for ultimate convenience.
Q7: How crucial is battery life for a mobile gimbal?
Battery life is super important, especially if you plan on extended shooting sessions, live streaming, or traveling without easy access to charging points. Gimbals with long battery lives (10+ hours) like the Hohem models reviewed here ensure you can film all day without interruption, reducing anxiety about running out of power during critical moments. Many even offer reverse charging, letting you power your phone from the gimbal, which is a massive bonus!
