Zhiyun Smooth 4 vs Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus: The Ultimate Gimbal Comparison

In the fast-paced world of mobile videography, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. Gimbals have become an essential accessory for filmmakers and content creators alike, allowing for smooth and steady shots even in dynamic environments. Today, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at two popular gimbals on the market: the Zhiyun Smooth 4 and the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus. We will examine their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Overview of the Gimbals

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus cater to a wide range of users, from casual videographers to professional filmmakers. Both gimbals promise exceptional stabilization but come with their own unique set of features and user benefits. Let's dive into what makes each of them stand out.

Design and Build Quality

Both gimbals flaunt a user-friendly design that puts functionality at the forefront. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 features a solid build, with ergonomic handles that allow users to maintain a comfortable grip during extended shooting sessions. Its layout includes an intuitive control panel right on the handle, making it easy to adjust settings without letting go.

On the other hand, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is slightly lighter, which could be appealing for those who prioritize portability. Its minimalistic design is both sleek and practical, and it also incorporates a multitude of buttons for various controls that can be customized according to user preference.

Performance and Stabilization

When it comes to stabilization, both gimbals perform admirably, thanks to advanced motor technology that counteracts unwanted movements. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 employs a high-precision algorithm that provides exceptional stabilization even during fast-paced action shots. Users have reported impressive results, claiming that even running with the gimbal results in remarkably smooth footage.

Conversely, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus showcases its capabilities with advanced AI algorithms that enhance stabilization and balance, ensuring your smartphone camera remains stable even while traversing uneven terrain. Users have often noted the impressive responsiveness of the iSteady system, effectively tracking subjects with remarkable accuracy.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any filmmaker, and both gimbals do not disappoint. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 boasts an impressive runtime of up to 12 hours on a single charge. This extended usage is particularly advantageous for those long-day shoots where you want to minimize downtime for recharging.

The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus, while slightly less powerful in terms of battery life—around 8 hours—offers quick charging capabilities that allow filmmakers to get back to shooting sooner. For users who may find themselves frequently swapping locations, this feature is a valuable asset.

Features and Functionality

Both gimbals offer a range of unique features that enhance the shooting experience. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 comes equipped with a host of creative shooting modes, such as Object Tracking and Time-lapse functionality, which can help bring a cinematic touch to your videos with minimal effort. The companion app offers additional features, including a focus pull and zoom function that operates seamlessly with different smartphone models.

The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus, while also featuring object tracking and time-lapse, goes a step further by introducing an innovative "Smart Follow" that allows the gimbal to automatically track subjects in real-time using its advanced AI technology. This feature is perfect for action shots where you need to maintain focus on a moving subject without adjusting the gimbal manually.

Smartphone Compatibility

Both gimbals are designed to support a range of smartphone models. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 supports devices weighing up to 240 grams, making it compatible with a broad selection of smartphones on the market. Its adjustable phone holder ensures that larger devices are also accommodated without any issues.

Similarly, the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus is compatible with most smartphones up to 280 grams. Users have praised the versatility of its mounting system, which can securely hold devices of varying sizes while maintaining the required balance for optimal operation.

Pricing and Value for Money

In terms of pricing, both gimbals fall within a similar range, which can make the decision more difficult. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 typically comes at a slightly higher price point, reflecting its advanced features and reputation within the industry. However, many users consider the investment worthwhile due to the quality of footage it produces and the innovative features it offers.

The Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus offers a more budget-friendly option while still providing solid performance and unique features that cater to everyday users and aspiring filmmakers. For those who want a good balance between price and performance, the iSteady Mobile Plus stands as a commendable choice.

User Experiences and Reviews

User reviews can offer valuable insight into the everyday performance of these gimbals. Many users of the Zhiyun Smooth 4 have reported exceptional results, particularly praising its intuitive controls and advanced features. Filmmakers have noted increased production quality and greater creative possibilities when shooting, thanks to the gimbal's stability and versatility.

On the other hand, users of the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus commend its ease of use and excellent battery performance. First-time gimbal users have expressed satisfaction with the learning curve and appreciate how quickly they can produce high-quality shots. The lightweight nature of the gimbal also allows for prolonged use without fatigue.

Final Thoughts on Both Gimbals

Both the Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus have unique strengths that make them popular choices within the gimbal community. Your choice between these two devices will likely depend on your specific needs, budget, and level of expertise in mobile videography.

As technology continues to evolve, gimbals like these will become even more refined, making it an exciting time for content creators looking to elevate their filmmaking skills. Whether you choose the Zhiyun Smooth 4 for its advanced features or the Hohem iSteady Mobile Plus for its practicality, you're sure to enhance your videography experience.

Ultimately, the choice boils down to what features resonate most with your personal shooting style—both gimbals promise to enhance your ability to create stunning, cinematic footage.