Tired of shaky, unprofessional-looking smartphone videos? You’re not alone! In today’s visual world, smooth, stable footage can make all the difference, whether you’re vlogging, capturing family memories, or shooting your next short film. That’s where a high-quality smartphone gimbal comes in, transforming your phone into a powerful cinematic tool. Hohem has emerged as a frontrunner in this space, offering a range of innovative stabilizers designed to elevate your mobile videography.
One of their most popular and celebrated models is the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus smartphone gimbal, known for its robust stabilization and user-friendly features. But Hohem offers even more fantastic options beyond that flagship. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into seven of Hohem’s top smartphone gimbals, helping you find the perfect device to capture those buttery-smooth shots you’ve always dreamed of. Let’s get your creativity flowing!
1. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
The original Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is a true workhorse, setting the standard for mobile stabilization with its upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake technology. This gimbal is designed for creators who demand incredibly stable and smooth footage across various scenarios, from daily vlogs to dynamic sports shooting. It’s an ideal companion for anyone looking to eliminate blurry videos and transform their smartphone recordings into professional-grade content.
Key Features:
* Upgraded iSteady 6.0 Anti-shake technology for incredibly stable footage.
* Hohem Joy App with “Moment” video templates, Inception, Fantastic Rotation, CloneMe, Panoramic Video, Timelapse, and Dolly Zoom.
* 3D Fantasy Auto-rotation Mode (Inception Mode) for 360° spontaneous rotation.
* Sport Mode for smooth shots during fast-moving actions.
* Zoom/focus control and all pan and tilt tracking/locking modes.
* 1/4” screw hole for accessories like tripods or video lights.
* 13-hour long-lasting battery life with reverse charging capability.
* Universal compatibility with a wide range of iPhones and Android smartphones.
Pros:
* Excellent stabilization, even in dynamic situations.
* Feature-rich app with creative shooting modes.
* Impressive 13-hour battery life and power bank function.
* Intuitive controls for zoom and focus.
* Highly versatile for different shooting environments.
Cons:
* Requires initial balancing, which can take a moment to master.
* Some advanced features might have a slight learning curve for beginners.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise the iSteady Mobile Plus for its remarkable ability to eliminate camera shake, making their smartphone videos look far more professional. The long battery life is a common highlight, allowing for extended shooting sessions without worry. While the app offers many creative functions, some users note it takes a bit of practice to fully utilize them.
2. Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
Building on the success of the original, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus Kit elevates your mobile filmmaking with an integrated magnetic fill light, ensuring your subjects are always perfectly illuminated. This version is a game-changer for low-light environments and a must-have for vloggers and content creators who need versatile lighting on the go. Its increased motor torque also means it handles heavier phones with ease, making it a robust choice for any modern smartphone.
Key Features:
* Magnetic Fill Light with 3 color temperatures and 10 brightness levels.
* iSteady 7.0 technology for cinematic-level stabilization.
* 600° Inception Mode for incredible panoramic and dynamic shots.
* Max Payload 280g with 20% increased motor torque.
* 13-hour long-lasting battery life with reverse charging.
* Rapid switch to vertical filming without rebalancing.
* Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode with four-press trigger to avoid motor obstruction.
* Multi-functional ports for various accessories.
Pros:
* Integrated fill light is a massive advantage for varied lighting conditions.
* Enhanced motor strength supports larger, heavier phones.
* Improved iSteady 7.0 stabilization offers even smoother footage.
* Quick vertical shooting transition is highly convenient.
* Ultra-wide-angle mode prevents common gimbal motor obstructions.
Cons:
* Fill light battery life is shorter than the gimbal’s main battery.
* Balancing still requires attention, especially with heavier phones.
User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of the built-in fill light, calling it a lifesaver for indoor or evening shoots. The improved stability and ability to handle larger phones are also frequently commended. The seamless transition to vertical shooting is a popular feature for social media content creators.
3. Hohem iSteady Mobile+ Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
The Hohem iSteady Mobile+ Kit (another variant of the Mobile Plus series, often found with similar or overlapping features as the previous ‘Kit’) is engineered for ultimate creative freedom, particularly highlighting its Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode that banishes motor blockages from your shots. Combined with the advanced iSteady 7.0 Anti-shake technology and a magnetic fill light, this Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus smartphone gimbal variant is a powerhouse for capturing expansive landscapes and dynamic action without compromise.
Key Features:
* Ultra-Wide-Angle Mode activated by four-press trigger to prevent motor obstruction.
* Magnetic Adjustable Fill Light with cold, warm, and natural settings, ten brightness levels.
* Upgraded iSteady 7.0 Anti-shake technology for flawless stability, even with larger smartphones.
* 600° Inception Mode for unparalleled panoramic and creative rotations.
* Updated Sport Mode for capturing fast-paced adventures with stability.
* 13-hour battery life with reverse charging capability.
* Wide device compatibility, including the latest iPhone and Samsung models.
Pros:
* Eliminates motor obstruction in wide-angle shots, a significant advantage.
* Versatile magnetic fill light enhances shooting in any light.
* Robust stabilization handles intense movements and heavy phones.
* Excellent battery life doubles as a power bank.
* Great for sports, travel, and cinematic vlogging.
Cons:
* Features can be quite similar to other “Mobile Plus Kit” versions, making choice tricky.
* Learning the various modes and controls takes some dedication.
User Impressions: This version is praised for its ability to truly capture wide scenes without the gimbal itself getting in the way – a common frustration with other models. The stabilization quality, even when running, is a consistent highlight. The magnetic fill light adds practical value for varied shooting conditions.
4. Hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone
The Hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus stands out as a supremely portable and beginner-friendly option, perfect for solo creators and vloggers on the go. Its innovative detachable remote controller allows for remote shooting up to 32 feet away, giving you incredible flexibility. Plus, with a built-in 8-inch extendable selfie stick, it offers dynamic perspectives from low-angle pet shots to high-angle drone-like views, all while delivering ultra-smooth footage thanks to iSteady 8.0 technology.
Key Features:
* Detachable Remote Controller for remote shooting up to 32 feet.
* Advanced iSteady 8.0 Anti-shake Technology for ultra-smooth footage.
* Built-in 8-inch Extendable Rod (selfie stick).
* Compact and Foldable design, weighing only 0.85 lbs.
* Hohem Joy App with AI tracking and gesture control.
* 11-hour long battery life, fully charging in about 2 hours.
* Beginner-friendly and budget-friendly.
* One-Hand Operation with seamless landscape/portrait mode switching.
Pros:
* Extremely portable and easy to carry.
* Detachable remote offers great flexibility for solo shooting.
* Integrated extension rod is highly convenient.
* Excellent stabilization for its compact size.
* User-friendly for beginners.
Cons:
* Shorter battery life compared to the Mobile Plus series.
* Lower payload capacity than heavier-duty models (0.66 lbs).
* Prolonged stretching of the extension rod may cause deformation.
User Impressions: This gimbal is a hit with travel vloggers and casual users who appreciate its compact size and ease of use. The remote control and built-in extension rod are frequently cited as game-changers for capturing unique shots and group selfies effortlessly. Users also love its quick setup and general reliability.
5. Hohem iSteady M6 Kit Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone
The Hohem iSteady M6 Kit is a serious upgrade for content creators, featuring an innovative AI Tracker with an adjustable fill light that allows for seamless face/body tracking without Bluetooth or app limitations. Coupled with the 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm, this gimbal delivers unparalleled stability and opens up a world of creative possibilities with its unlimited shooting angles, including a 360° vertical inception mode. It’s truly designed to redefine mobile photography.
Key Features:
* Innovative AI Tracker with adjustable CCT/RGB fill light (no Bluetooth/App needed).
* 7th-Gen iSteady Stabilization Algorithm for unparalleled smoothness.
* Unlimited Shooting Angle: 360° vertical and infinite inception mode.
* Large payload of 0.88 lbs and four expansion ports for accessories.
* Multifunctional Joystick for easy control of sports mode, zoom, focus, etc.
* 18-hour long-lasting battery life with reverse charging.
* 0.91-inch OLED display for real-time power and status checks.
Pros:
* Groundbreaking AI tracking without app dependency is a huge advantage.
* Exceptional 18-hour battery life, ideal for prolonged shoots.
* High payload capacity supports heavier phones and external lenses.
* Abundance of expansion ports for professional setups.
* OLED display provides convenient real-time information.
Cons:
* Might be overkill for casual users who don’t need all the advanced features.
* Initial setup and balancing require careful attention to avoid motor overheating.
User Impressions: Users are blown away by the iSteady M6’s AI tracking capabilities, calling it incredibly precise and freeing. The long battery life and ability to power accessories are highly valued by professional and semi-professional creators. While feature-packed, it’s still considered relatively intuitive for the power it offers.
6. Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, Phone Gimbal
The Hohem iSteady M7 takes mobile stabilization to the next level with its detachable 1.4-inch touchscreen controller, offering advanced filming capabilities and real-time previews from up to 10 meters away. Paired with a magnetic AI tracker boasting 100% enhanced resolution and iSteady 9.0 Anti-Shake Technology, this gimbal ensures your subject is always perfectly tracked and your footage is flawlessly smooth. It’s a professional tool for vloggers, filmmakers, and content creators seeking ultimate control and stability.
Key Features:
* Detachable 1.4-inch Touchscreen Controller with AI-powered real-time previews.
* Magnetic AI Tracker with 100% enhanced AI resolution for superior precision.
* iSteady 9.0 Anti-Shake Technology with 360° rotation for crystal-clear footage.
* 12-hour battery life and reverse charging.
* Built-in Extendable Aluminum Rod (up to 7.6 inches/193mm).
* 360 RGB Lighting with CCT and RGB modes, adjustable remotely.
* 1.1 lbs payload capacity and accessory compatibility (lenses, mics, fans).
* Universal Smartphone Compatibility (fits 95% of phones).
Pros:
* Detachable touchscreen controller offers unprecedented control and preview.
* Highly precise and enhanced magnetic AI tracking.
* Top-tier iSteady 9.0 stabilization.
* Integrated RGB lighting is a huge bonus for creative shots.
* High payload and accessory support for professional rigs.
Cons:
* Premium features come with a potentially higher price point.
* The array of features might be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
User Impressions: Reviewers are particularly impressed by the detachable touchscreen, finding it incredibly convenient for monitoring and controlling shots remotely. The accuracy of the AI tracker and the sheer stability provided by iSteady 9.0 are consistently highlighted. The versatile RGB lighting is a favorite for adding a professional touch to videos.
7. Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, 3-Axis Gimbal
This variant of the Hohem iSteady M7 further emphasizes its professional-grade features, particularly the intuitive control offered by its detachable remote with a 1.4-inch full-color touchscreen and real-time preview. Designed with a robust built-in extension pole for unique angles and integrated RGB and CCT fill light for flexible illumination, this Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus smartphone gimbal (referring to the category of Hohem gimbals for smartphones) offers unparalleled freedom in camera movements with its orthogonal 3-axis design, providing 360° infinite pan rotation and a wide tilt range.
Key Features:
* Detachable remote with 1.4-inch full-color touchscreen for intuitive control and real-time preview.
* Robust built-in extension pole for various creative angles (e.g., aerial, pet’s eye view).
* Integrated RGB and CCT fill light with remote control for brightness and color temperature.
* Professional orthogonal 3-axis design with 360° infinite pan rotation and 325° wide tilt range.
* 12-hour battery life with reverse charging support.
* Wide compatibility with the latest iPhone and Android models.
Pros:
* Full-color touchscreen remote enhances user experience significantly.
* Built-in extension pole adds versatility for unique shots.
* Comprehensive lighting options (RGB and CCT) are remotely adjustable.
* Exceptional freedom of movement with 360° pan rotation.
* Reliable 12-hour battery life with phone charging capability.
Cons:
* Very similar feature set to the previous iSteady M7, making differentiation challenging without hands-on testing.
* The extensive features might still present a learning curve for new gimbal users.
User Impressions: Users appreciate the M7’s premium feel and the precision offered by its controls. The integrated lighting is a significant advantage, and the ability to extend the gimbal for different shot types is highly valued. It’s often described as a robust and reliable tool for serious mobile videographers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is a smartphone gimbal and why do I need one?
A: A smartphone gimbal is a handheld device that uses motors and sensors to stabilize your smartphone, counteracting unwanted movements (like shaky hands or walking). You need one if you want to capture smooth, professional-looking videos, especially for vlogging, action shots, or cinematic sequences, as it dramatically improves video quality compared to handheld shooting.
Q2: How do Hohem gimbals stabilize footage?
A: Hohem gimbals use a 3-axis mechanical stabilization system. This means they have motors on three axes (pan, tilt, and roll) that constantly adjust to keep your phone level and steady, regardless of your movement. Advanced Hohem models also incorporate software-based anti-shake algorithms (like iSteady 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0) for even smoother results.
Q3: Is the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus smartphone gimbal compatible with my phone?
A: Most Hohem gimbals, including the iSteady Mobile Plus series, are designed for universal compatibility. They typically support a wide range of iPhones (including the latest models like iPhone 15 Pro Max) and popular Android phones (like Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, Huawei P50 Pro) within specific weight and width limits. Always check the product’s specifications for exact dimensions and payload capacity.
Q4: What’s the difference between Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus and other Hohem models like M6 or M7?
A: While the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is a core model, newer series like the M6 and M7 often introduce more advanced features. The M6, for example, features a dedicated AI vision sensor for app-free tracking, while the M7 boasts a detachable touchscreen controller and even more refined stabilization (iSteady 9.0). The Mobile Plus series focuses on robust general-purpose stabilization, while the M-series often adds cutting-edge tech for professional creators.
Q5: How long does a Hohem gimbal battery last, and can it charge my phone?
A: Hohem gimbals typically offer excellent battery life, ranging from 11 to 18 hours on a single charge, depending on the model and usage. Many Hohem models also feature “reverse charging,” meaning you can use the gimbal’s battery to charge your smartphone, which is incredibly useful for long shooting sessions outdoors or when your phone’s battery runs low.
Q6: What are some creative modes available on Hohem gimbals?
A: Hohem gimbals are packed with creative shooting modes, often accessible through their companion “Hohem Joy” app. Popular modes include:
* Inception Mode: Rotates your phone 360° vertically for a spinning shot effect.
* Sport Mode: Increases motor speed for quick reactions to fast-paced movements.
* Dolly Zoom (Vertigo Effect): Zooms in or out while moving away or closer to the subject, creating a dramatic visual.
* Timelapse/Motion Timelapse: Condenses long events into short, sped-up videos.
* Panoramic Video: Captures wide, sweeping shots.
* Face/Object Tracking: Automatically follows a selected subject.
Q7: How do I balance my phone on a Hohem gimbal?
A: Balancing your phone on a Hohem gimbal is crucial for optimal performance and battery life.
1. Clamp your phone: Place your phone securely in the clamp.
2. Adjust horizontally: Slide the phone clamp left or right until your phone is roughly balanced horizontally when the gimbal is off.
3. Adjust vertically: Move the phone up or down within the clamp until it stays horizontal on its own, without tipping forward or backward.
A well-balanced phone puts less strain on the gimbal motors, ensuring smoother footage and longer battery life. Refer to your specific model’s manual for detailed instructions.
