Choosing the right smartphone gimbal can feel like navigating a maze, especially with so many great options out there. If you’ve been eyeing a Hohem iSteady, you’re on the right track – they’re known for their impressive stabilization and user-friendly features. But what about the specifics? Many wonder about the differences, perhaps asking, “What’s the deal with hohem isteady v2 vs mobile plus?”
While “iSteady V2” might refer to an earlier iteration or a general evolution, Hohem’s lineup, particularly the “Mobile Plus” series and the newer “M” series, truly showcases how far smartphone stabilization has come. In this article, we’ll dive deep into some of Hohem’s most popular models, including the Mobile Plus, the Mobile+ Kit, the M6 Kit, and the M7, helping you understand their unique strengths and decide which one is your perfect filming companion. Let’s get started!
1. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Gimbal Stabilizer
The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is a classic in the smartphone gimbal world, offering robust stabilization for those looking to elevate their mobile videography without breaking the bank. It’s built to transform shaky phone footage into smooth, professional-looking content, making it a favorite for daily vlogging, travel adventures, or even capturing special events. With its focus on core stabilization and creative modes, it’s a solid entry point into the world of Hohem gimbals.
-
Key Features:
- Upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake Technology
- Hohem Joy App integration with “Moment” video templates
- 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation (Inception mode)
- Sport Mode for fast-action shots
- Basic zoom/focus control, pan/tilt tracking/locking modes
- 13 hours of long-lasting power & reverse charging capability
- Universal compatibility with a wide range of smartphones
-
Pros:
- Excellent stabilization for its generation
- Intuitive app for creative effects and control
- Long battery life doubles as a power bank
- Sport mode effectively handles fast movements
- Affordable entry point for serious phone videography
-
Cons:
- iSteady 6.0 is an older stabilization version
- Lacks advanced features like built-in AI tracking or fill light
- May require more manual balancing compared to newer models
User Impressions: Users often praise the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus for its ease of use and significant improvement in video stability. Many found the Hohem Joy app helpful for unlocking creative shots, making it a great tool for beginners and casual creators. The long battery life is a consistent highlight, allowing for extended shooting sessions.
2. Hohem iSteady Mobile+ Kit Gimbal Stabilizer
The Hohem iSteady Mobile+ Kit takes the beloved Mobile Plus foundation and amps it up with key upgrades, making it an even more versatile tool for content creators. What truly makes this model stand out is its commitment to solving common filming frustrations, like motor blockages when shooting wide-angle, and providing impeccable lighting right out of the box. It’s a compelling evolution for anyone comparing hohem isteady v2 vs mobile plus and looking for the latest in the Mobile+ line.
-
Key Features:
- Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode to avoid motor blockages
- Magnetic Adjustable Fill Light with cold, warm, and natural settings (10 levels)
- Upgraded iSteady 7.0 Anti-shake Technology
- 600° Inception & Sport Mode for creative shots and fast-paced action
- 13 hours of extended battery life, doubling as a power bank
- Wide device compatibility, supporting larger smartphones
-
Pros:
- Solves ultra-wide-angle obstruction issues
- Integrated magnetic fill light is a game-changer for diverse lighting
- Enhanced stabilization with iSteady 7.0
- Robust build and higher motor torque for heavier phones
- Continues to offer excellent battery life
-
Cons:
- The “Kit” version adds to the cost compared to the basic Mobile Plus
- Still relies on manual phone balancing
- No built-in AI tracking (requires app)
User Impressions: Customers rave about the upgraded iSteady Mobile+ Kit, particularly loving the magnetic fill light for its convenience and effectiveness in various lighting conditions. The ultra-wide-angle mode is frequently mentioned as a huge plus, finally allowing them to use their phone’s full camera capabilities without obstructions. Its solid performance and thoughtful additions make it a strong contender.
3. Hohem iSteady M6 Kit Gimbal Stabilizer
Stepping into a new league, the Hohem iSteady M6 Kit is for creators who demand more intelligence and flexibility from their gimbal. Its standout feature is the innovative AI Tracker, which offers hands-free subject tracking without relying on Bluetooth or app connections. This means your subject stays perfectly in frame, allowing you to focus on your performance or creative vision. The M6 truly redefines mobile videography with its advanced capabilities and robust design.
-
Key Features:
- Innovative AI Tracker with adjustable CCT/RGB fill light (no app needed)
- 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm (iSteady 7.0)
- Unlimited 360° Inception Mode for dynamic shots
- Large 0.88 lbs (400g) payload and four expansion ports
- Multifunctional Joystick for easy control of zoom, focus, and modes
- 18 hours long-lasting battery life with reverse charging
- Large 0.91-inch OLED display for real-time status
-
Pros:
- Built-in AI tracking is revolutionary for solo creators
- Higher payload capacity supports more phone setups
- Longest battery life among the reviewed models
- OLED display provides convenient status updates
- Excellent stabilization with iSteady 7.0
-
Cons:
- Higher price point than the Mobile Plus series
- AI tracker is a separate module, adding a bit of bulk
- Might be overkill for casual users who don’t need AI tracking
User Impressions: The Hohem iSteady M6 Kit receives high marks for its AI tracking capabilities, which many users describe as a game-changer for vlogging and capturing dynamic scenes. The extended battery life and additional expansion ports are also frequently praised, allowing for a more professional setup. It’s seen as a powerful tool for serious content creators.
4. Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer
The Hohem iSteady M7 represents the pinnacle of Hohem’s current smartphone gimbal technology, integrating cutting-edge features for the most demanding creators. Its detachable touchscreen controller and enhanced magnetic AI tracker offer unparalleled control and precision, while the iSteady 9.0 anti-shake technology delivers the smoothest footage imaginable. If you’re comparing hohem isteady v2 vs mobile plus and want to see the absolute latest and most advanced in Hohem’s lineup, the M7 is it.
-
Key Features:
- Detachable 1.4-inch Touchscreen Controller (up to 10m range)
- Enhanced Magnetic AI Tracker (100% improved resolution)
- iSteady 9.0 Anti-shake Technology with 360° rotation
- 12-hour battery life with reverse charging
- Built-in Extendable Aluminum Rod (up to 7.6 inches)
- 360° RGB Lighting with CCT and RGB modes
- 1.1 lbs (500g) payload capacity and accessory compatibility
- Universal smartphone compatibility (95% of phones)
-
Pros:
- Detachable touchscreen offers ultimate control and remote filming
- Superior stabilization with iSteady 9.0
- Integrated extendable rod for diverse shooting angles
- Built-in RGB lighting for cinematic effects
- Highest payload capacity for professional rigs
- Enhanced AI tracking for superior subject following
-
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Battery life is slightly less than the M6 (still very good)
- Might be more features than a beginner needs
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed with the iSteady M7’s advanced features, particularly the detachable touchscreen controller and the highly accurate AI tracking. The integrated extendable rod and RGB lighting are also big hits, enabling more creative and professional shots. It’s widely regarded as a top-tier gimbal for serious filmmakers and influencers.
Which Hohem iSteady is Right for You?
When considering the “Hohem iSteady V2 vs Mobile Plus” question, it’s really about understanding the evolution and different tiers of Hohem’s excellent gimbals. The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus series (including the Mobile+ Kit) offers fantastic foundational stabilization and core features for general use. The Mobile Plus with iSteady 6.0 is a great budget-friendly option, while the Mobile+ Kit with iSteady 7.0 and a magnetic fill light is a solid upgrade for improved lighting and wide-angle shooting.
Stepping up, the Hohem iSteady M6 Kit introduces advanced AI tracking and increased payload capacity, making it ideal for solo creators or those who frequently use external accessories. Finally, the Hohem iSteady M7 is the flagship, providing a complete professional setup with its detachable touchscreen, superior iSteady 9.0 stabilization, integrated extendable rod, and powerful RGB lighting.
Your best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and how much you plan to grow your mobile videography setup. Each of these Hohem gimbals promises to make your smartphone footage smoother and more cinematic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the main difference between iSteady 6.0, 7.0, and 9.0 anti-shake technology?
A1: Each version represents an iteration of Hohem’s stabilization algorithm, offering incremental improvements in smoothness, responsiveness, and motor torque. iSteady 6.0 provides solid core stabilization. iSteady 7.0 enhances this further, often allowing for better handling of heavier phones and more dynamic movements. iSteady 9.0 is the most advanced, offering superior precision, 360° rotation capability, and even finer control over stabilization for truly cinematic results.
Q2: What is an “AI Tracker” in a Hohem gimbal, and do I need it?
A2: An AI Tracker is a built-in vision sensor that allows the gimbal to automatically track a face or body without needing a Bluetooth connection or the companion app. If you’re a solo content creator, vlogger, or frequently film yourself in motion, an AI tracker is incredibly useful for keeping you perfectly in frame without manual adjustments.
Q3: Can these gimbals charge my phone?
A3: Yes, most modern Hohem gimbals, including all the models reviewed here (Mobile Plus, Mobile+ Kit, M6 Kit, M7), feature reverse charging. This means they can act as a power bank to charge your smartphone directly from the gimbal’s battery, which is incredibly convenient for long shooting sessions outdoors.
Q4: Are Hohem gimbals compatible with both iPhone and Android phones?
A4: Absolutely! Hohem gimbals are designed for universal smartphone compatibility. They typically have adjustable clamps that fit a wide range of phone sizes, including the latest iPhones and Samsung Galaxy models, as well as many other Android devices. Always check the specified width and payload capacity to ensure your phone fits.
Q5: What is “Inception Mode,” and how do I use it?
A5: Inception Mode (also sometimes called 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation or 600° Inception) is a creative shooting mode that allows the gimbal to rotate your phone along its roll axis, creating a dramatic, spinning shot effect. You can typically activate it with a button press or through the Hohem Joy app, adding a cinematic flourish to your videos.
Q6: What’s the benefit of a magnetic fill light?
A6: A magnetic fill light is a convenient accessory that attaches directly to the gimbal, providing adjustable lighting (cold, warm, natural, or RGB colors) for your subject. It’s incredibly beneficial for shooting in low-light conditions, improving skin tones, and adding a professional polish to your videos and selfies without needing external lighting setups.
Q7: Is it worth upgrading from an older Hohem gimbal to a newer model like the M6 or M7?
A7: If your current gimbal lacks features like AI tracking, integrated lighting, an extendable rod, or struggles with heavier phones, upgrading to an M6 or M7 could significantly enhance your workflow and creative possibilities. The advancements in stabilization and smart features offer a noticeable leap in performance and convenience for serious mobile videographers.
