Thinking about stepping up your smartphone videography game? A good gimbal stabilizer can make all the difference, transforming shaky home videos into smooth, cinematic masterpieces. When it comes to reliable and feature-packed options, Hohem has consistently been a strong contender, with popular lines like the iSteady Mobile Plus and the iSteady X. But with so many models and iterations, picking the right one can feel like a head-spinning task!
You’re probably asking: what’s the real difference between the hohem iSteady Mobile Plus vs iSteady X? And how do newer models, like those in the M series, stack up? Well, you’ve landed in the right spot! We’re diving deep into some of Hohem’s best smartphone gimbals, breaking down their features, pros, and cons to help you decide which is your perfect creative companion. Get ready to shoot like a pro!
Let’s explore some of the top contenders.
hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone
The Hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus is a fantastic entry point into the world of gimbal stabilization, especially if you’re a solo creator or just starting out. What truly makes it shine is its innovative detachable remote controller, giving you the freedom to capture dynamic shots from a distance without needing an extra hand. Pair that with its built-in extendable rod, and you’ve got a versatile tool that transitions effortlessly from a selfie stick to a low-angle shooter, making it perfect for capturing everything from pet antics to sweeping panoramas.
- Key Features:
- Detachable Remote Controller (up to 32 feet)
- Advanced iSteady 8.0 Anti-shake Technology
- Built-in 8-inch Extendable Rod
- Compact and Foldable Design (0.85 lbs)
- Hohem Joy App with AI Tracking & Gesture Control
- 11-Hour Long Battery Life
- Beginner-Friendly One-Hand Operation
- Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- Remote control adds great flexibility for solo shooting.
- Excellent stabilization for its class.
- Long battery life reduces charging anxiety.
- Easy to use, ideal for first-time gimbal owners.
- Cons:
- Payload limit (0.66 lbs) might restrict some heavier phones with bulky cases.
- Extension rod needs careful handling to prevent deformation.
- AI tracking is app-dependent.
- User Impressions: Users often praise the X3 SE Plus for its incredible portability and ease of setup. Many highlight the remote control as a game-changer for vlogging and group shots, appreciating how quickly they can get stable footage without a steep learning curve. The battery life is also a consistent winner among reviewers.
- See it on Amazon here
Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is an upgraded classic, designed for those who demand professional-grade stability and creative control from their smartphone gimbal. With its newly enhanced iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake technology, it practically eliminates shaky footage, allowing for incredibly smooth multi-scene shots. But what truly sets it apart is the “3D Fantasy Auto-rotation Mode,” or Inception mode, enabling mesmerizing 360° vertical rotations for a truly cinematic effect. This is the tool for budding directors looking to add that extra flair to their mobile productions.
- Key Features:
- Upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake Technology (3-axis stabilization)
- Hohem Joy App with “Moment” templates (Inception, CloneMe, Timelapse)
- 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation Mode (360° vertical rotation)
- Sport Mode for fast-paced action
- Zoom/Focus Control & Accessory Screw Hole
- 13-Hour Long Lasting Power & Reverse Charging
- Wide Universal Compatibility
- Pros:
- Delivers exceptionally smooth and stable video.
- Creative modes like Inception open up unique filming possibilities.
- Long battery life, plus doubles as a power bank.
- Robust build and excellent balance.
- Ideal for various professional and casual shooting scenarios.
- Cons:
- Can be a bit heavier and larger than the more compact X series.
- Might require a bit more balancing setup than simpler models.
- No built-in extendable rod or remote (requires app for advanced features).
- User Impressions: Customers love the iSteady Mobile Plus for its sturdy build and reliable stabilization, often noting a significant improvement in their video quality. The Inception mode is a fan favorite, though some users mention a slight learning curve for mastering all the app’s features. Its long battery life is also frequently applauded.
- See it on Amazon here
hohem iSteady Mobile+ Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
Building on the success of the Mobile Plus, the hohem iSteady Mobile+ Kit takes things up a notch by addressing common creator needs. Its standout feature is the Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode, which intelligently prevents motor blockages in your frame, ensuring you capture every detail without obstruction – a crucial benefit for landscape and dynamic scene shots. Plus, the inclusion of a magnetic adjustable fill light (with multiple color temperatures and brightness levels) means you’re always perfectly lit, elevating your content from casual to captivating, day or night.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode (no motor blockages)
- Magnetic Adjustable Fill Light (cold, warm, natural, 10 levels brightness)
- Upgraded iSteady 7.0 Anti-shake Technology (20% more motor torque)
- 600° Inception & Sport Mode
- Extended 13-Hour Battery Life & Power Bank Function
- Wide Device Compatibility (iPhone 15 Pro Max supported)
- Pros:
- Solves the common motor obstruction issue for wide-angle shots.
- Integrated fill light is a massive bonus for diverse lighting conditions.
- Enhanced stabilization handles even heavier smartphones.
- Versatile creative modes for dynamic content.
- Excellent battery life with reverse charging.
- Cons:
- The ‘kit’ means more accessories to carry, albeit useful ones.
- Still a robust size compared to ultra-compact gimbals.
- Magnetic fill light is an add-on, not integrated internally.
- User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the fill light’s impact on their footage, especially in low-light situations. The ultra-wide-angle mode is also frequently highlighted as a significant improvement, ensuring cleaner shots. Users appreciate the gimbal’s ability to handle larger phones with ease while maintaining superior stability.
- See it on Amazon here
hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
This Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit emphasizes enhanced convenience and lighting capabilities, making it a dream come true for vloggers and on-the-go content creators. Its core magnetic fill light offers incredible versatility with three color temperature settings and ten brightness levels, allowing you to perfectly illuminate your subject in any environment. Coupled with the classic 600° Inception Mode for mind-bending panoramic shots and a rapid vertical filming switch, this gimbal streamlines your workflow, letting you focus on creativity rather than fiddling with settings.
- Key Features:
- Magnetic Fill Light with 3 colors & 10 brightness levels (60-min battery)
- Multi-Functional Ports for accessories (extension rods, mics, lights)
- 600° Inception Mode (no app needed for basic function)
- Max Payload 280g (20% increase in motor torque)
- 13-Hour Long-lasting Battery & Reverse Charging
- Rapid Vertical Shot Master (rotate handle)
- iSteady 7.0 Anti-shake & Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode
- Pros:
- Versatile and convenient magnetic fill light.
- High payload capacity supports heavier phones.
- Quick switch to vertical shooting is incredibly efficient.
- Multi-functional ports for expanding your setup.
- Excellent battery life with power bank capability.
- Cons:
- The fill light needs separate charging.
- Still on the larger side compared to some compact alternatives.
- Users must balance the phone correctly for optimal performance.
- User Impressions: Many users love the magnetic fill light for its convenience and effectiveness, especially for selfies and indoor shoots. The ease of switching between landscape and portrait mode without rebalancing is a big hit, simplifying the workflow for social media content. Its robust build and long battery life are also consistent positives.
- See it on Amazon here
hohem iSteady XE Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
The hohem iSteady XE Kit is all about powerful stabilization in an incredibly lightweight, beginner-friendly package. Billed as the lightest stabilizer on the market at just 0.57 lbs, it’s designed for effortless on-the-go shooting. But don’t let its size fool you – it packs a punch with the advanced iSteady 7.0 3-axis stabilization system, offering three times more anti-shake performance than its predecessors. The included magnetic adjustable fill light makes it a complete solution for getting clear, well-lit footage anywhere, anytime.
- Key Features:
- Upgraded iSteady 7.0 3-axis stabilization (3x more anti-shake)
- Magnetic Adjustable Fill Light (10 levels brightness, 3 color temps, 180° rotation)
- Ultra-lightweight (0.57 lbs) and Foldable Design
- Easy to Use (no complicated leveling)
- 8-Hour Battery Life
- Hohem Joy App with Face & Object Tracking, creative templates
- Enhanced Motor (30% rise in torque), Max Payload 0.62 lbs
- Pros:
- Exceptionally lightweight and portable, fits anywhere.
- Superior stabilization for its compact size.
- Fill light is a huge value-add for varied lighting.
- Very user-friendly, great for beginners.
- Strong motor for a compact gimbal.
- Cons:
- Shorter battery life (8 hours) compared to some larger models.
- No built-in extension rod.
- Fill light is an attachment, not integrated.
- User Impressions: This gimbal receives high marks for its featherlight design and how easy it is to carry around. Users are consistently impressed by the stabilization despite its small size, and the magnetic fill light is frequently cited as a game-changer for spontaneous shooting. It’s often recommended for travel vloggers and casual users.
- See it on Amazon here
hohem iSteady M6 Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
The hohem iSteady M6 Kit is a serious upgrade for content creators, redefining what a smartphone gimbal can do. Its crowning glory is the innovative AI tracker, which allows for smooth face and body tracking without Bluetooth or app limitations – simply use gestures! This, combined with an adjustable fill light offering CCT/RGB ambient colors, makes it an incredibly powerful tool for professional-level shooting in any environment. The iSteady M6 is clearly built for those who demand ultimate precision and creative freedom.
- Key Features:
- AI Tracker (gesture-controlled, no app/Bluetooth limitation)
- Adjustable Fill Light (CCT/RGB colors, brightness)
- 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm (iSteady 7.0)
- Unlimited Shooting Angle (360° infinite vertical rotation, 335° tilt)
- Large 0.88 lbs Load & Four Expansion Ports
- Multifunctional Joystick (Sport Mode, Ultra-Wide, Zoom, Focus)
- 18H Long Lasting Battery & Reverse Charging
- 0.91-inch OLED Display for real-time status
- Pros:
- Standalone AI tracking is incredibly convenient and precise.
- Versatile fill light with RGB options for creative lighting.
- Market-leading 18-hour battery life.
- High payload capacity and multiple expansion ports for pro setups.
- Intuitive OLED display and unlimited rotation angles.
- Cons:
- Higher price point reflects its advanced features.
- Larger and heavier than entry-level gimbals.
- Requires proper balancing for optimal performance.
- User Impressions: Users are absolutely blown away by the M6’s AI tracking, praising its accuracy and independence from the app. The long battery life and the ability to add multiple accessories also receive high praise, making it a favorite among professional mobile filmmakers and serious vloggers.
- See it on Amazon here
Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone
The Hohem iSteady M7 introduces a new level of control and flexibility for iPhone users with its detachable remote that features a 1.4-inch full-color touchscreen. This isn’t just about remote control; it’s about real-time preview and intuitive adjustments right from your hand, making complex shots feel effortless. Its robust built-in extension pole and integrated RGB and CCT fill light further enhance its versatility, allowing for creative angles and perfect illumination in any shooting scenario.
- Key Features:
- Detachable Remote with 1.4-inch Full-Color Touchscreen & Real-Time Preview
- Robust Built-in Extension Pole
- Integrated RGB and CCT Fill Light (remote brightness/color control)
- Professional Orthogonal 3-axis Design (360° infinite pan, 325° tilt)
- 12-Hour Battery Life with Reverse Charging
- Wide Phone Compatibility (including latest iPhones)
- Pros:
- Touchscreen remote provides unparalleled control and preview.
- Built-in extension pole adds reach for unique perspectives.
- Versatile integrated RGB/CCT fill light.
- Infinite pan rotation allows for limitless creative shots.
- Solid battery life with power bank function.
- Cons:
- The detachable remote is a feature you need to keep track of.
- It’s a more premium model, reflected in its cost.
- Some users might prefer a more compact design without the extension pole.
- User Impressions: Users love the touchscreen remote for its ease of use and the ability to preview shots directly. The integrated light and extension pole are also highly valued for their convenience and functionality, making it a strong contender for those who need an all-in-one solution for their iPhone videography.
- See it on Amazon here
hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, Phone Gimbal
This iteration of the Hohem iSteady M7 truly elevates the mobile filming experience with an emphasis on advanced AI tracking and superior stabilization. The detachable 1.4-inch touchscreen controller now offers AI-powered real-time previews and automatic subject tracking up to 10 meters away, ideal for solo vloggers or event organizers. Paired with the iSteady 9.0 anti-shake technology providing 360° rotation and the massive 1.1lbs payload capacity, this gimbal is a powerhouse designed for professional-grade, high-quality content creation, regardless of movement or environment.
- Key Features:
- Detachable Touchscreen Controller with AI-powered Real-Time Previews & Auto-Tracking (up to 10m)
- Magnetic AI Tracker (100% enhanced resolution, precise tracking)
- iSteady 9.0 Anti-Shake Technology (3-axis, 360° rotation)
- 12-Hour Battery Life & Reverse Charging
- Extendable Aluminum Rod (up to 7.6 inches)
- 360 RGB Lighting (CCT & RGB modes, remote adjustment)
- 1.1lbs Payload Capacity & Accessory Compatibility
- Universal Smartphone Compatibility (95% of phones, enhanced motor torque)
- Pros:
- Highly accurate, app-independent AI tracking.
- Detachable touchscreen remote provides unmatched control.
- Superior iSteady 9.0 stabilization technology.
- High payload capacity allows for external lenses and heavy phones.
- Versatile 360 RGB lighting and built-in extension.
- Cons:
- Top-tier price point.
- The AI tracker is magnetic, requiring secure attachment.
- The range of features might be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
- User Impressions: This M7 model is highly regarded for its robust build and exceptional stabilization, with many users highlighting the magnetic AI tracker’s precision as a standout feature. The integrated lighting and extendable rod are also frequently praised for adding immense value and flexibility to their shoots. It’s a strong choice for serious content creators.
- See it on Amazon here
hohem iSteady XE Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, 2023
The 2023 hohem iSteady XE redefines portable power, offering professional-grade stability in an ultra-compact, foldable design. It boasts the iSteady 7.0 3-axis stabilization, delivering three times more anti-shake performance than previous X series models, ensuring your footage is always butter-smooth. Designed for beginners, it eliminates tedious leveling, allowing you to just clamp and shoot. The enhanced motor handles larger smartphones with ease, making this one of the lightest yet most capable gimbals for on-the-go content creation.
- Key Features:
- iSteady 7.0 3-axis stabilization (3x more stable than X series)
- No-threshold Operation (easy install, no tedious leveling)
- Hohem Joy App with Face & Object Tracking, creative templates
- Inception mode (180° fantasy, no app limits for basic function)
- Enhanced Motor, Max Payload 0.62 lbs (supports iPhone 14 Pro Max)
- Perfect for Portability (0.57 lbs, foldable, 8-hour battery)
- 1/4″ universal screw hole
- Pros:
- Incredibly portable and lightweight.
- Significant stabilization improvement over older X series models.
- Super easy to set up and use, perfect for beginners.
- Handles larger phones well for its size.
- App-independent Inception mode is a nice touch.
- Cons:
- Shorter battery life (8 hours) compared to M or Mobile Plus series.
- No built-in fill light or extension rod.
- Advanced features like AI tracking require the app.
- User Impressions: Users frequently express surprise at the XE’s stability given its diminutive size and weight. Its “clip and go” simplicity is a major plus for casual users and travelers. The ability to handle larger phones without sacrificing performance is also a consistent highlight, making it a solid all-rounder for everyday use.
- See it on Amazon here
Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, Magnetic
The Hohem iSteady M7 Magnetic continues the M series’ trend of innovation, particularly excelling in its upgraded on-device AI tracking. This allows the gimbal to track any subject – people, pets, buildings, cars – with your phone’s native camera and even in live streaming apps, all secured by new safety locks. Combine this with the detachable touchscreen remote for simple target selection and comprehensive control up to 10 meters, and you have a powerhouse for dynamic, hands-free videography.
- Key Features:
- Upgraded On-Device AI Tracker (tracks any subject with native cam & live apps)
- Detachable Touchscreen Remote (double tap & track, 10m range)
- Upgraded 500g (1.1 lbs) Payload & Multiple Expansion Options
- 360 Lighting Colors (integrated RGB/CCT fill light, remote control)
- Built-in Extension Pole for high/low-angle shots
- Pros:
- Revolutionary AI tracking that works with native camera and live streaming apps.
- User-friendly touchscreen remote for quick subject selection.
- High payload capacity supports professional accessories.
- Integrated, remote-controlled RGB/CCT lighting.
- Built-in extension pole for versatile shooting angles.
- Cons:
- Premium price point.
- The AI module is a separate magnetic attachment.
- Might be considered overkill for very casual users.
- User Impressions: This M7 model garners immense praise for its “smart” features, especially the AI tracking that works seamlessly with various apps. The touchscreen remote is a massive hit for its intuitive control. Users investing in this model find it to be a robust, feature-rich tool that truly enhances their mobile filmmaking capabilities.
- See it on Amazon here
hohem iSteady Mobile Plus vs iSteady X: The Ultimate Showdown!
So, how do the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus and iSteady X series stack up against each other, and where do the newer M series gimbals fit in? It’s all about balancing your needs with their core strengths.
The Hohem iSteady X Series (e.g., X3 SE Plus, XE):
The iSteady X line is Hohem’s answer to portability and beginner-friendliness. These gimbals are typically ultra-compact, foldable, and incredibly lightweight, making them perfect for stuffing into a small bag or even a pocket. They prioritize quick setup and ease of use, often featuring one-hand operation and simplified controls. While they deliver excellent stabilization for their size (especially with iSteady 7.0/8.0 tech), they might have slightly lower payload capacities and fewer advanced physical controls or expansion options compared to their larger siblings. The focus here is on convenience, travel, and getting good, stable shots with minimal fuss.
The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Series (e.g., Mobile Plus, Mobile+ Kit):
The iSteady Mobile Plus series represents a step up in robustness and creative features. These gimbals are generally sturdier, designed to handle a wider range of heavier phones with better motor torque. They excel in offering more advanced “Moment” modes, like the iconic 360° Inception mode, and often include dedicated zoom/focus wheels. The “Kit” versions push this further with practical additions like magnetic fill lights and ultra-wide-angle modes that prevent motor obstruction. If you’re looking for a more professional feel, greater creative control, and higher payload capacity for accessories, the Mobile Plus line is a fantastic choice.
The Hohem iSteady M Series (e.g., M6, M7):
The M series is Hohem’s premium, feature-packed offering, often incorporating the latest advancements like integrated AI tracking (on-device, app-independent), sophisticated touchscreen remotes, and high-quality integrated RGB lighting. These gimbals boast even higher payload capacities and multiple expansion ports for serious videography setups (external mics, lenses, etc.). They combine the best of both worlds – advanced stabilization and creative features – with groundbreaking conveniences like AI tracking that works with native camera apps. If you’re a serious content creator, professional vlogger, or just want the absolute best and most versatile tool for mobile filmmaking, the M series is where Hohem truly shines.
In essence:
* iSteady X: Best for portability, casual use, and beginners.
* iSteady Mobile Plus: Great for enhanced creative control, stability with heavier phones, and practical accessory integration.
* iSteady M: The top-tier choice for professional creators who need cutting-edge AI features, ultimate control, and maximum versatility.
Deciding between the hohem iSteady Mobile Plus vs iSteady X ultimately boils down to how you plan to use it and what features you value most. Do you prioritize ultimate portability and simplicity, or are you looking for more robust features, higher payloads, and creative flexibility? And if your budget allows, the M series truly offers a glimpse into the future of mobile videography.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between 2-axis and 3-axis gimbals?
A1: A 2-axis gimbal stabilizes pitch and roll, meaning it compensates for up-and-down and side-to-side tilting. A 3-axis gimbal adds yaw stabilization (left-to-right panning), providing much smoother and more professional-looking footage by counteracting movement in all three dimensions. All the Hohem gimbals reviewed here are 3-axis, offering superior stabilization.
Q2: Do I need a specific app to use Hohem gimbals?
A2: While many Hohem gimbals can perform basic stabilization and mode switching without the app, features like AI tracking, advanced creative modes (Inception, Dolly Zoom), firmware updates, and fine-tuning controls often require the “Hohem Joy” app. Newer M-series gimbals with on-device AI tracking offer some app-independent functions for convenience.
Q3: Can these gimbals charge my phone?
A3: Yes, many Hohem gimbals, particularly those in the iSteady Mobile Plus and M series, come with a “reverse charging” feature. This means they can act as a power bank, allowing you to charge your smartphone directly from the gimbal’s battery, which is incredibly useful during long shoots.
Q4: Are these gimbals compatible with all smartphones, including larger ones like iPhone Pro Max or Samsung Ultra?
A4: Hohem gimbals are designed with broad compatibility in mind. They typically have adjustable clamps to fit a wide range of smartphone sizes. Newer models, especially the iSteady Mobile Plus Kit, XE, M6, and M7 series, feature upgraded motors and higher payload capacities (e.g., up to 0.62 lbs or 1.1 lbs), specifically designed to handle heavier and larger flagship phones like the iPhone 15 Pro Max or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra without compromising stabilization. Always check the maximum payload and clamp width specifications.
Q5: What is AI tracking, and how does it work on Hohem gimbals?
A5: AI tracking uses artificial intelligence to automatically recognize and follow a subject (face, body, or even objects like pets) as it moves. On some Hohem gimbals (like the M6/M7), this tracking is “on-device,” meaning the AI module is built into the gimbal or attached magnetically, allowing it to work independently of the app and even with your phone’s native camera or live streaming apps. Other models might rely on app-based AI tracking. It’s fantastic for solo creators who need to stay in frame without an operator.
Q6: What does “Inception Mode” do, and is it hard to use?
A6: Inception Mode, also sometimes called 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation, is a creative filming technique that automatically rotates your phone 360° along its roll axis while filming. This creates a mesmerizing, swirling effect, giving your videos a professional, cinematic feel. While it looks complex, Hohem gimbals (especially the Mobile Plus series and some XE models) make it easy to activate, often with just a tap in the Hohem Joy app or even a button press on the gimbal itself for basic 180° rotations.
Q7: How important is a built-in fill light or extension rod?
A7: A built-in or magnetic fill light is incredibly useful for improving your video quality in low-light conditions or for adding professional-looking catchlights for vlogging and selfies. It ensures your subject is always well-lit. An extension rod, on the other hand, allows you to capture higher-angle “drone-like” shots, low-angle perspectives, or wider group selfies, adding versatility to your shooting angles without needing extra accessories. Both features significantly enhance creative possibilities and convenience.
