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

In the realm of smartphone stabilization technology, gimbals have become indispensable tools for content creators and photographers. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus are two of the most popular gimbals on the market today. Both devices offer impressive features, but they cater to different needs and audiences. In this article, we'll delve into the specifications, features, advantages, and potential drawbacks of each gimbal, enabling you to make an informed decision for your next filming project.

1. An Overview of Smartphone Gimbals

Smartphone gimbals have transformed mobile videography, allowing users to capture steady, cinematic shots without the hassle of traditional stabilization equipment. With advancements in technology, these devices have become more compact, lightweight, and user-friendly, making professional-quality content creation accessible to everyone.

2. Key Specifications

2.1 Zhiyun Smooth 4

• Max Payload: 300g
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
• Weight: 547g
• Compatibility: Most smartphones (up to 3.6 inches in width)
• Features: Object tracking, time-lapse, and various shooting modes

2.2 Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus

• Max Payload: 400g
• Battery Life: 12 hours
• Weight: 300g
• Compatibility: Most smartphones (up to 3.5 inches in width)
• Features: Face tracking, 3D inception mode, and intelligent follow mode

3. Design and Build Quality

When selecting a gimbal, the design and build quality are crucial factors to consider as they affect usability and longevity. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is characterized by its solid construction, ensuring durability while still being relatively lightweight. It features an ergonomic grip that makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods, an essential factor for long shooting sessions.

On the other hand, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is lighter and boasts a more compact design. This feature makes it incredibly portable, appealing to on-the-go filmmakers and travelers. Despite its lightweight nature, the build quality is robust, providing a good balance between durability and accessibility.

4. Stabilization Performance

4.1 Zhiyun Smooth 4

Equipped with the latest stabilization technology, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 offers exceptional performance in various shooting environments. The 3-axis stabilization effectively counteracts shakes and jitters, ensuring smooth footage, even when on the move. The advanced algorithms in this gimbal also enhance tracking capabilities, making it a preferred choice for action shots.

4.2 Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus

The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus also excels in stabilization. With its impressive 400g payload capacity, it can accommodate heavier smartphones, providing enhanced stability during filming. The intelligent follow mode ensures that your subject remains in focus and centered while moving, a feature that can elevate documentary-style shoots or vlogs.

5. Features and Functionality

5.1 Advanced Shooting Modes

Both devices offer various shooting modes, allowing users to explore their creative potential. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 includes features such as time-lapse, hyper-lapse, and object tracking. Its focus pull and zoom capability help to achieve cinematic effects that can elevate any content.

In contrast, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus shines with its 3D inception mode, which enables users to create unique rotating shots. The face tracking feature is another standout function, especially beneficial for vloggers and content creators who interact directly with their audience.

5.2 User Interface and Control

The usability of a gimbal is significantly influenced by its user interface. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 has a well-designed control panel with intuitive buttons. Users can quickly switch between different modes, adjust settings, and even remember specific configurations for future use.

Conversely, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus presents an equally user-friendly interface, though it might require a bit of a learning curve for beginners. The joystick allows for smooth directional control, making it easy to fine-tune angles and shot compositions.

6. Battery Life and Charging

Both gimbals boast impressive battery life, with each offering around 12 hours of continuous use. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 features a USB-C port that allows users to charge their devices while filming. On the other hand, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus can charge your smartphone using its built-in power bank feature, adding an extra layer of convenience for long shooting days.

7. Price Point and Value for Money

Pricing is an essential consideration when investing in gimbals. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 typically falls within the mid-range price bracket, reflecting its extensive feature set and build quality. For those seeking a robust, all-around gimbal without breaking the bank, the Smooth 4 presents an attractive option.

The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus often comes at a slightly lower price point, making it a great budget-friendly choice for novice filmmakers. Its essential features and solid performance make it a value-oriented investment, particularly for those new to mobile videography.

8. Ideal Use Cases

Choosing between the Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus largely depends on your specific needs and filmmaking style. If you’re planning to shoot professional-quality content with intricate stabilization and advanced features, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 may be the better choice. Its enhanced stability and innovative shooting modes cater well to creative professionals.

In contrast, if portability, affordability, and ease of use are your main priorities, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus stands out as an appealing option. Its compact design and user-friendly features make it especially suitable for travel vloggers and casual shooters.

9. Final Thoughts

Both the Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus are exceptional gimbals designed to meet the demands of modern-day content creators. By assessing your particular requirements—such as weight, stabilization needs, and shooting style—you can choose the gimbal that best suits your ambitions, ensuring that your videos are as professional and appealing as possible.