Smartphones have simplified the way we capture videos, bringing high-definition videography right into our pockets. This technological advancement has brought about the rise of mobile phone gimbals, which have become indispensable tools for vloggers, content creators, and anyone aiming to record professional-grade videos.
These compact handheld devices are cost-effective alternatives to camera gimbals, without compromising on the quality of the footage. A key player in this sector, Hohem, has been crafting stabilization systems for smartphones, action cameras, and DSLR and mirrorless cameras since 2014. Their latest release, the Hohem iSteady M6, comes loaded with impressive features. But does it deliver value for its price? Let’s dive into our detailed review of this phone gimbal stabilizer.
Premium Build and Ergonomics
The Hohem iSteady M6 boasts an elegant design that gives it the feel of a high-end product. Though designed for mobile phones, it doesn’t skimp on build quality. Made from high-performance composites, it weighs just 551g, battery included. The in-built 2600mAh battery, nestled within the handle, can last for a full day of filming after just 3 hours of charging, making it a reliable partner for content creators.
Balancing your phone on the gimbal is a breeze; all it takes is a simple adjustment of the roll-axis arm until your phone is level with the ground. The process is quick and hassle-free. The comfortable handle provides an excellent grip, while the unit’s ergonomics let you access the gimbal’s controls with ease. Whether you’re right or left-handed, the iSteady M6 is designed for effortless use.
The sharp, easily readable OLED display pops up as soon as you power on the device, showing your modes and any forgotten unlocks. This mobile phone gimbal is housed in a slim, protective case which fits snugly into your camera bag, providing secure transportation.
Advanced Controls and Features
All the controls are conveniently located at the top of the handle, allowing for comfortable one-handed operation. The smart phone gimbal boasts a 360-degree pan with infinite rotation, a 335-degree roll axis, and a similar tilt axis, giving ample room for creative exploration. Beyond its basic gimbal functions, the iSteady M6 offers an array of additional features when paired with its dedicated app via Bluetooth.
The phone gimbal stabilizer provides numerous controls at your fingertips, including mode switches, tilt and pan controls, zoom lever, shutter button, and a multifunctional control wheel for adjusting focus, roll control, and the brightness of the RGB light. An AI tracking sensor, mounted magnetically on the gimbal, follows your movements smoothly, keeping you perfectly framed. The sensor comes with a small RGB LED light for illumination, which can be controlled and adjusted via the control wheel.
Hohem Joy App Integration
While the phone gimbal stabilizer operates perfectly with a Bluetooth connection, pairing it with the Hohem Joy App opens up a world of extra features. Though there might be occasional connection issues, they can be resolved easily by rescanning for Bluetooth devices.
Stellar Performance
The Hohem iSteady M6 gimbal is not just a product; it’s a comprehensive filmmaking tool. To see it in action, I headed out to my usual filming locations with my dogs for company. After an hour of filming, I can vouch for the gimbal’s battery life and stability.
Besides, the iSteady M6 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 18 hours in static mode or 6 hours in full-function operating mode. It also has the capacity to serve as an emergency power supply for your smartphone, ensuring your device is always powered up when you need it.
The Good and the Potential Improvements
Some standout features of the Hohem iSteady M6 include its quick balancing, myriad control features, time-lapse function, ease of use, AI tracking, gesture controls, user-friendly app, and comfort during extended use. From my experience, there’s little room for improvement in terms of functionality. Hohem has always been an innovator, and I hope it can bring more surprises in the future.
Wrapping Up
I am generally easily impressed, but also discerning when a product fails to meet its claims. The Hohem iSteady M6 gimbal, however, exceeded my expectations considering its price tag. It’s a robust, premium product packed with features you wouldn’t anticipate at this price point.
In essence, a mobile phone gimbal like the Hohem iSteady M6 is a must-have for anyone looking to record smooth, stable footage using their smartphones. Given the ever-improving quality of smartphone video recording, it’s important to have a tool that aids with stabilization, panning, and titling. This gimbal for phone does all that and more, making it a worthy investment for anyone passionate about mobile content creation.
