Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus vs Zhiyun Smooth 4: A Comprehensive Comparison

In the evolving world of smartphone videography, choosing the right gimbal can significantly improve the quality of your footage. Two popular choices among content creators are the Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus and the Zhiyun Smooth 4. Each of these gimbals comes with its unique features, pros, and cons. In this article, we will delve deep into the specifications, usability, and performance of both gimbals, allowing you to make an informed decision.

Overview of Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus

The Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus is designed for mobile videographers and offers various features that cater to both beginners and professionals. Weighing just about 300 grams, it’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it a great companion for outdoor shoots.

Key Features

• 3-Axis Stabilization: Ensures smooth footage even during fast-paced movements.
• Extended Battery Life: Up to 12 hours of continuous usage with a full charge.
• Smartphone Compatibility: Supports various smartphone sizes and weights.
• Multiple Shooting Modes: Offers modes like Inception Mode, Object Tracking, and Time-lapse.

Overview of Zhiyun Smooth 4

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 has established a reputation as one of the top contenders in the smartphone gimbal space. With a robust design and a plethora of features, it’s favored by serious videographers. The Smooth 4 weighs around 550 grams, providing a solid and steady grip during video shoots.

Key Features

• Advanced Control Panel: Offers access to all the features directly from the gimbal without the need to touch your phone.
• Zoom Control: A dedicated control for zooming in or out while recording.
• Long Battery Life: Can also last up to 12 hours, enabling full-day shooting.
• Creative Modes: Includes time-lapse, hyper-lapse, and object tracking capabilities.

Performance Comparison

When it comes to performance, both gimbals hold their ground well. However, their stabilization mechanisms differ slightly. The Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus has an impressive anti-shake function, ideal for action shots. In contrast, the Zhiyun Smooth 4, with its heavier build, offers a more stable experience, particularly beneficial for cinematic shots.

Stabilization Comparison

Stabilization is crucial for videography. The Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus implements a 3-axis stabilization system that includes roll, pitch, and yaw stabilization. This system makes it easier for users to shoot in moving scenarios, ensuring that footage remains smooth.

On the other hand, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 also utilizes a 3-axis stabilization mechanism but adds a layer of sophistication with its advanced algorithms. This means it can combat heavier vibrations and deliver unparalleled stability, particularly during complex shooting scenarios.

Ease of Use

Both gimbals prioritize user experience but achieve this in different ways. The Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus is user-friendly, especially for beginners. The straightforward setup allows users to start capturing immediately without in-depth knowledge.

Conversely, the Zhiyun Smooth 4, while slightly more complicated due to its extensive control panel, provides advanced users with a detailed manual to customize their shooting experience. The dedicated dials for zoom and focus are especially loved by professionals who want greater control over their shots.

Portability and Build Quality

Portability is another important factor in the decision-making process. The Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus, weighing a mere 300 grams, has a compact and foldable design, making it perfect for travel. You can easily slip it into a backpack and take it on all your adventures.

The Zhiyun Smooth 4, however, weighs about 550 grams and is less compact. But this extra weight contributes to its sturdiness, providing better handling in demanding recording situations. While it may not be as portable, it makes up for this with superior stability, which many videographers appreciate.

Battery Life

Both gimbals perform admirably in terms of battery life. The Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus offers an impressive usage time of around 12 hours, which is advantageous for long shooting sessions. Additionally, it can also double as a power bank to charge your smartphone, making it an excellent multi-functional tool.

Similarly, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 also provides around 12 hours of battery life. However, its battery is not as versatile, meaning users cannot charge their devices through the gimbal. This could be a drawback for videographers on extended shoots.

Price Point

When making a choice, price often plays a critical role. The Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus is generally priced lower than the Zhiyun Smooth 4. This affordability, combined with its robust features, makes it an attractive option for beginners or casual users.

The Zhiyun Smooth 4, being a premium product, comes at a higher price point. However, this price reflects its additional features and superior build quality, thus appealing more to professionals looking for enhanced performance.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

When deciding between the Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus and the Zhiyun Smooth 4, consider your filming style and needs. If you’re a beginner or an enthusiast looking for a great gimbal at an affordable price, the Hohem Isteady Mobile Plus will serve you well. It's lightweight, user-friendly, and packed with features to enhance your videography.

However, if you are a serious videographer or film professional who requires extensive control over your shots, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is worth the investment. Its advanced features and superior build quality provide an elevated shooting experience that can make all the difference in professional productions.

In the end, either gimbal will enhance your smartphone filmmaking, but choosing the right one will depend on your specific needs and budget.