Zhiyun Smooth 4 vs Hohem iSteady X: The Ultimate Gimbal Showdown

In recent years, smartphone filmmaking has taken off, allowing content creators to produce stunning videos without the need for cumbersome equipment. Central to this trend are gimbals, designed to stabilize your smartphone while you shoot. Among the most popular models currently on the market are the Zhiyun Smooth 4 and the Hohem iSteady X. This article will explore the features, performance, and usability of these two gimbals, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your filmmaking needs.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, both the Zhiyun Smooth 4 and the Hohem iSteady X are sleek, lightweight, and portable options. The Smooth 4 boasts a more robust build, providing a sense of durability that many users appreciate. It features an ergonomic grip with an intuitive design that aligns well with a filmmaker’s needs. The included control panel—with its multiple buttons and dials—allows for easy access to various shooting modes, making it an excellent choice for professional-grade filming.

The iSteady X, on the other hand, is pronounced for its lightweight and compact design. Weighing only 259 grams, it claims to be one of the most portable gimbals available. This makes it a fantastic choice for travelers or vloggers who prioritize mobility. However, some users find that its lighter build may sacrifice stability when handling larger smartphones or during more intense movements.

Stabilization Performance

Stabilization is a primary function of any gimbal, and both the Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Hohem iSteady X offer impressive capabilities. The Smooth 4 utilizes a 3-axis stabilization system that can manage various filming environments, whether you’re walking, running, or moving on uneven terrain. Its advanced algorithms ensure that your shots remain smooth and jitter-free, which is especially noticeable during dynamic actions.

The iSteady X also sports a 3-axis stabilization system but with a lighter build and its unique algorithms designed to optimize stabilization for handheld shooting. Users have reported that it performs adequately during smooth movements, but users who require high-intensity stabilization may find the Smooth 4 more reliable in high-action scenarios. Overall, both gimbals are effective, but each has its strengths and weaknesses in different filming conditions.

Battery Life

Battery life can make or break your day of shooting, and both the Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Hohem iSteady X have competitive options in this area. The Smooth 4 is equipped with a 26350 mAh built-in battery. Depending on usage, this powerful battery can provide up to 12 hours of continuous operation. Moreover, it supports reverse charging, allowing you to use it as a power bank to charge your smartphone. For those long days on set, this feature can turn your gimbal into an essential multi-functional tool.

In contrast, the Hohem iSteady X offers about 8 hours of battery life on a single charge. While this is commendable, it may not be enough for filmmakers who shoot long events or projects without access to charging stations. While the iSteady X’s battery management is good for most casual users, the extra hours of the Smooth 4 can be invaluable for professionals.

Features and Functionality

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is packed with features aimed at enhancing your shooting experience. It includes various shooting modes such as object tracking, time-lapse, and motion lapse. The focus pull and zoom capabilities are particularly appreciated by professional videographers who require precise control over their shots. Moreover, the Smooth 4 comes with a dedicated app that expands its functionalities, offering manual controls, filters, and video editing tools.

On the flip side, the Hohem iSteady X is also equipped with impressive features for its price point. It includes multiple shooting modes, such as Sports Mode and Inception Mode, allowing for creative filming options. However, it lacks the level of advanced features found in the Smooth 4, and users may also notice a steeper learning curve when trying to get the most out of its capabilities. The companion app for the iSteady X is user-friendly, making it accessible for newcomers to videography.

Pricing and Value

When it comes to price, the Zhiyun Smooth 4 is generally positioned at a slightly higher price point than the Hohem iSteady X. This can be attributed to the extensive features and robust build quality of the Smooth 4. However, for many users, especially hobbyists, the iSteady X offers great value for money, providing effective stabilization and essential features at a more budget-friendly cost.

Ultimately, the choice between these two gimbals comes down to what you prioritize in your filming. If you are a professional or a serious content creator, the investment in the Zhiyun Smooth 4 may be worthwhile for its superior features and durability. Conversely, if you are a casual user or need something compact and lightweight for travel, the Hohem iSteady X serves as a solid option.

Usability for Vloggers and Content Creators

For vloggers, the ease of setup and running time is crucial. Users have praised the Zhiyun Smooth 4 for its quick setup process and responsive controls, although the weight may be a factor when using it for extended periods. The hohem iSteady X’s lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, and its battery life suits casual shoots, making it a versatile choice for vloggers on the go.

Feedback from videographers suggests that using either gimbal leads to improved production quality and stability. They both allow for creative transitions and smooth shots that elevate content significantly. The choice, therefore, becomes less about which gimbal has more features and more about how each user will employ their gimbal in practical settings.

Wrapping Up the Gimbal Battle

The Zhiyun Smooth 4 and Hohem iSteady X both offer unique features and strengths to cater to different types of users. The Smooth 4 delivers premium quality, advanced functionality, and unmatched battery life, making it an excellent choice for experienced content creators. In contrast, the iSteady X provides great value for the casual filmmaker looking for portability and simplicity in operation.

Ultimately, deciding between these two esteemed gimbals should come down to your specific filming needs, style, and budget considerations. With either choice, you’re assured of stepping up your filmmaking game.