Hohem iSteady V2 vs Mobile Plus: Which Gimbal is Right for You?

The rise of mobile videography has transformed the way we create and share content. With the advent of powerful smartphones equipped with high-resolution cameras, capturing professional-quality video has never been easier. However, shaky footage can ruin even the best of clips. Enter smartphone gimbals—devices designed to stabilize your video recording, ensuring smooth and professional results. In this article, we will compare two popular gimbals on the market: the Hohem iSteady V2 and the Mobile Plus gimbal. Both offer impressive features, yet they cater to different needs and preferences.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to gimbal design, both the Hohem iSteady V2 and the Mobile Plus have their unique aesthetics and build qualities.

Hohem iSteady V2

The Hohem iSteady V2 features a sleek and ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods. It's lightweight, coming in at just 0.44 lbs (200g), making it easy to carry around on shoots. The gimbal is constructed from high-quality materials that provide durability while ensuring a premium feel. The foldable design of the iSteady V2 means it can easily fit into your backpack or bag, making it ideal for travel.

Mobile Plus

On the other hand, the Mobile Plus offers a more robust construction. While it’s a bit heavier at 0.71 lbs (320g), it compensates with extra stability. Its design is also foldable, which is a plus for portability. The handling of the Mobile Plus is enhanced by its rubberized grips that further improve user comfort during long shooting sessions.

Stabilization Technology

At the core of any gimbal is its stabilization technology. This is crucial for producing smooth footage and avoiding shaky videos.

Hohem iSteady V2

The Hohem iSteady V2 employs a 3-axis stabilization system that effectively counteracts unwanted movements, allowing for fluid motion and stable video. It also features various modes, including Follow Mode and Lock Mode, giving users creative freedom to experiment with their shots. Additionally, the iSteady V2 offers a commendable battery life of up to 12 hours, ensuring that it lasts through your entire shooting session.

Mobile Plus

The Mobile Plus also utilizes advanced 3-axis stabilization technology. However, it takes the experience a step further with built-in algorithms that detect movement more swiftly. This means it can keep up with fast-paced action better than many of its competitors. The battery life on Mobile Plus is slightly lower, offering about 10 hours, but it’s still impressive and perfect for a day of shooting.

Features and Functionality

In terms of features, both gimbals have a lot to offer, catering to different types of filmmakers.

Hohem iSteady V2

The iSteady V2 shines with its user-friendly interface and multiple modes such as "Inception" mode, allowing for 360-degree rotations. It also includes a time-lapse feature, which is excellent for those who want to capture stunning transitional shots over time. With the remote control feature via smartphone, you can easily track movements and switch shooting modes without touching the gimbal, providing a seamless experience.

Mobile Plus

Mobile Plus focuses heavily on smart features, including a built-in motion control option that allows you to connect with your smartphone app for advanced functions. The app also supports a range of camera functions like panorama shooting and face tracking. This makes it an excellent choice for vloggers and YouTubers who benefit from these automated capabilities.

Compatibility with Smartphones

One of the key factors to consider when choosing a gimbal is its compatibility with various smartphones.

Hohem iSteady V2

The Hohem iSteady V2 supports a wide range of smartphones, accommodating devices up to 6.7 inches in length. This gives you the flexibility to use your gimbal with both traditional phones and the larger models available today. Its adjustable phone holder ensures a secure fit regardless of your device size.

Mobile Plus

Likewise, the Mobile Plus can handle various smartphone sizes and weights, making it a versatile choice for users. However, it does have a slightly narrower range for larger models, which may be a consideration for those using the latest flagship smartphones that exceed standard dimensions.

Price Point

While discussing gimbals, the price is always a point of consideration. Both of these devices fall within a competitive price range, making them accessible for both beginners and seasoned videographers.

Hohem iSteady V2

The iSteady V2 tends to be on the more affordable side without compromising quality. Its pricing strategy makes it an attractive option for newcomers to videography who want a reliable tool without breaking the bank.

Mobile Plus

The Mobile Plus, while slightly more expensive than the iSteady V2, offers additional smart features that justify its price. For serious creators who want advanced options and improved stabilizing technology, the investment might be worthwhile.

User Experience and Reviews

Ultimately, user experience can significantly impact your choice between the two gimbals. User reviews generally highlight the ease of use and operational simplicity of both gimbals.

Hohem iSteady V2

Users appreciate the straightforward setup of the iSteady V2 and its lightweight design, which makes it perfect for everyday use. Many have pointed out that it takes minimal time to learn the controls, making it suitable for beginners.

Mobile Plus

Fans of the Mobile Plus often praise its advanced features and overall performance. Users love the smoothness of the footage captured in various conditions and have noted the effectiveness of its smart tracking abilities.

Final Thoughts

Deciding between the Hohem iSteady V2 and the Mobile Plus ultimately depends on your needs as a creator. If you are a beginner looking for an affordable and dependable gimbal without too many bells and whistles, the iSteady V2 is a fantastic option. However, if you are a more experienced user seeking smart features and enhanced stabilization for complex shots, the Mobile Plus may be worth the investment. In either case, both gimbals stand as reliable tools that can elevate your mobile videography experience, turning your everyday captures into cinematic masterpieces.