Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus vs Zhiyun Smooth 4: Which Gimbal Reigns Supreme?

In the world of mobile videography, having a reliable gimbal can make a significant difference in the quality of your footage. With many options on the market, two names that often come up are Hohem's iSteady Mobile Plus and Zhiyun's Smooth 4. Both these gimbals promise to stabilize your shots and enhance your filmmaking experience. However, their features, usability, and overall value can appeal to different types of users. This article will dive deep into each of these gimbals, comparing their specifications, design, performance, and usability, helping you to decide which one is the best fit for your needs.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice about both the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus and Zhiyun Smooth 4 is their sleek designs. The Hohem gimbal boasts a lightweight and ergonomic design. Weighing only 0.79 lbs, it offers a comfortable grip even during long shooting sessions. Its intuitive control panel allows for easy navigation, while the rotary knobs for zoom and focus are convenient for directors on the move.

On the other hand, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 weighs about 1.1 lbs, slightly heavier, but it makes up for it with its robust construction. Featuring a high-quality plastic shell and an improved stabilizer system, it feels solid in hand. The Smooth 4 is designed with a comprehensive control panel that integrates multiple functions, such as focus, zoom, and mode switching, directly into the gimbal without needing to touch the smartphone screen.

Stabilization Performance

Both gimbals provide impressive stabilization characteristics. The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus features a three-axis stabilization system that adeptly caters to most shooting scenarios. The gimbal's advanced algorithms help to eliminate shakes and jitters, allowing for smooth, cinematic shots even while walking or running. Additionally, it supports an array of movement modes such as follow mode, pan mode, and lock mode, allowing for creative control over your shooting style.

Meanwhile, Zhiyun Smooth 4 also has a three-axis stabilization system that is renowned for its precision. Its enhanced motor strength allows you to focus on shooting dynamic scenes without worrying about stabilization failures. The Smooth 4 also has several creative shooting modes, including object tracking, time-lapse, and motion lapse, which are easily accessible through its control panel, making it appealing for advanced users.

Battery Life

When you're out in the field shooting a film or a vlog, battery life is crucial. The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus offers an impressive battery life of up to 12 hours on a single charge, meaning you won't have to worry about it dying halfway through your shoot. Its battery can also be charged via a USB-C port, which adds to its user-friendliness.

In contrast, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 has a battery life of around 12 hours as well, which is on par with the Hohem model. However, it also provides a USB-C port for charging, making it easy to use while on the go. Both gimbals can effectively run for a significant amount of time, making them suitable for extended shooting sessions.

Camera Compatibility

When selecting a gimbal, it's essential to consider its compatibility with various smartphones and cameras. The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus supports a wide array of smartphone models, accommodating devices from 3.5 inches to 6.5 inches, making it highly versatile for mobile filmmakers.

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 could be considered slightly more restrictive, as it is also primarily designed for smartphones, but it can handle a broad range of devices, weighing up to 7 inches. Both options provide ample flexibility for different camera setups, but if you plan to use an action camera or a lightweight DSLR, the Hohem may provide better flexibility.

Ease of Use

The ease of use is another crucial aspect when considering these gimbals. The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus shines in simple controls and allows users to get started quickly without a steep learning curve. Its user-friendly design appeals greatly to beginners, making it an attractive option for casual videographers and travel enthusiasts alike.

Conversely, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 offers a more robust array of features but may require a bit of time to master, especially for first-time users. The comprehensive control panel, while powerful, can be somewhat overwhelming to navigate at first glance. However, for those willing to learn, its advanced features can significantly enhance the filming experience.

Price Point

Price is always an important factor in any purchasing decision. As of now, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus retails at approximately $99, making it one of the most affordable gimbals in its category. Its blend of features, stability, and usability makes it a strong contender for those looking to enter the world of mobile videography without breaking the bank.

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 typically goes for around $139, which is slightly higher. However, the additional price reflects its advanced features and build quality, making it a suitable investment for serious filmmakers looking for precise control and additional capabilities.

Final Thoughts on Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus vs. Zhiyun Smooth 4

No matter which gimbal you choose, it’s essential to consider what you need for your filming style. If you favor simplicity and affordability, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is an excellent choice. However, if you seek advanced features and don’t mind putting in a bit of extra work to master your equipment, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is worth the investment. Each gimbal has its unique strengths and appeals to different types of users, so your choice ultimately depends on your specific filming needs and preferences.

As technology continues to evolve and improve, both of these gimbals will likely remain strong options for filmmakers and content creators, ensuring that your videos can achieve the desired cinematic quality you envision.