Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra: A Powerful AI-Driven Smartphone Gimbal for Content Creators

I found a $170 mobile gimbal that rivals my DJI - and it's easy to set up

I do a lot of filming, in various situations and for different needs. Most of my filming is done with a cinema camera, but every once in a while, I can get away with shooting on my phone. But even with Android's built-in stabilization, I can't get the smooth footage I need while moving. That's where a gimbal comes into play. There are plenty on the market, but I've yet to see a brand as affordable and useful as those made by Hohem, so when I received the iSteady V3 Ultra, I was excited to put it through its paces. Also: This Android camera app alternative is better than what you're using I've used other Hohem gimbals, so I knew exactly what to expect. But this model is a considerable step up from the original iSteady V3, as the AI and stabilization have vastly improved. One thing I've always respected about Hohem's gimbals is how easy they are to use. I can unbox one, attach my phone, turn it on, start the Hohem app, and start filming. That's really all there is to it. Of course, when you want to make use of all the features (such as the AI follow), you're going to need to read the quick start guide. But even the AI tracking feature is easy to use. Simply flip a switch, stand in front of the phone, give the signal (an OK sign), and the gimbal will start following you. The iSteady V3 Ultra includes extendable legs to serve as a stand, so you don't have to purchase any other equipment. There's even a light that has 3 different color fills, so you can get the right footage in lower light. Also: Google Pixel 10 Pro vs. iPhone 16 Pro: I've tried both flagships, and there's an easy winner So how did this gimbal stand up to the competition? Now, to be fair, I mostly use a DJI RS 4 Pro gimbal, which costs nearly ten times that of the iSteady V3, so I won't t be comparing this gimbal to my main tool. Even so, the iSteady V3 Ultra is impressive. I already had the app installed, so it took me less than 2 minutes from unboxing to using. That's pretty impressive, as I've used phone gimbals that took considerably more time and effort. Beyond the bells & whistles, the single most important feature of a gimbal is its ability to produce smooth footage. I'm happy to report that the iSteady V3 achieves that goal quite well. I was able to produce quick footage that was so smooth, you would think I was a ninja. And the phone remains steady, no matter if you're in portrait or landscape mode. There was no wobble or drift, it just worked exactly how I expected it to, even while moving quickly. Also: Best vlogging cameras (and whether you need a flip screen) Without a gimbal, there would be no way I could capture such smooth movements with a phone camera. I might be able to manage it with a cinema camera (for short distances and on the right surface), but a phone is much more challenging to keep steady. Seriously, this is impressive. I've used other gimbals with AI follow, and the iSteady V3 Ultra was as accurate as I've ever experienced. No matter how fast the movement is, the iSteady stayed on me, even picking up the slightest movements. I've had similar gimbals that did a good job of horizontal follow, but this one is as accurate for vertical movement as it is horizontal. The AI follow as also impressive with matching speed. There was never any over-correction for fast movement or jerkiness for slow movement, it was smooth as butter. Keep in mind that this all comes at a $169 price, which is even more impressive. On top of that, you get a removable remote, so you can trigger record and even use the joystick when away from the gimbal. If you're looking to improve your mobile video shooting skills, the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra is the way to go. With very little setup time and barely any complications, you can be filming with this thing in minutes, and you'll might be as shocked as I was at the results. I've tested far more expensive phone gimbals and if given the choice, I'll probably pick this one first because of the results and the simplicity of use. If you're a creator shooting for mobile, or just on a budget, do yourself a favor and purchase this gimbal to start making outstanding videos.

The Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra is the best small smartphone stabilizer for subject tracking I've ever tested

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Find out more about how we test. Hohem's new smartphone stabilizer, the iSteady V3 Ultra, is the latest in the manufacturer's long-running range of mobile gimbals. Like most products of this type, clamping your phone onto the arm will keep its movements smooth and level while you're filming content - but here, the main selling point is the built-in AI-assisted tracking functionality. The iSteady V3 Ultra comes with a tracking module that, through the use of a built-in 2MP camera, is able to keep the attached phone constantly pointing at a tracked subject, no matter how much they move. The V3 Ultra's handle has 360 degrees of motion so, when set up on its built-in mini tripod, it can track a moving subject even if they circle right around it multiple times. And, unlike some of the other tracking modules, this one is able to follow not only human faces and bodies, but other objects too. I should also note that all of the above applies not only when capturing content using Hohem's own camera app, but also first-party and third-party camera apps like Zoom, TikTok, and Instagram. And, because the tracking module can be pointed forwards or backwards, it'll work with both the main rear camera(s) and front-facing camera of any smartphone. While testing the iSteady V3 Ultra, I found this tracking to be the clear standout feature. It's accurate and reliable, and surprisingly adaptable too. I was able to use the gimbal's joystick to manually adjust my position in the frame, and the module would continue tracking me while keeping me in the new position rather than just in the dead center of the frame, which is brilliant for those times you want to use the rule of thirds and keep yourself off-center. I should point out that you can also track using software, via the Hohem Joy app - but it will keep subjects centered at all times. I much preferred the versatility and adaptability of the module-based tracking. And as a nice bonus feature, the AI tracker module doubles as a fill light with a choice of cool, warm, and neutral tones, plus fully adjustable brightness. There's a lot to like about this stabilizer besides its tracking capabilities, too. The compact, folding design of the device isn't anything I haven't seen before on competitors or Hohem's own range, but it's easy to unfold and set up. The built-in mini tripod, which consists of three metal rods that are pulled out of the handle, is sturdy, and a standard tripod thread mount on the base means you can attach the entire thing to an even sturdier full-size tripod or similar should you wish. An extension rod, concealed in the handle, provides up to about 20cm of extra reach on the gimbal arm. It's useful if you want to fit more in the frame while using the iSteady V3 Ultra handheld. I'm also a big fan of the removable remote control module, which comes with a 1.22-inch touchscreen. I first encountered one of these on the Hohem iSteady M7, a larger and pricier smartphone stabilizer, and was pleased to see the concept transferred down the range to a more portable and affordable model. The controller has a wireless range of up to 10m / 33ft, and its joystick, button, and touchscreen let you adjust the gimbal arm angle, change settings, and stop/start recording from a distance. The screen also provides a live view from the AI tracker module's camera, so you can set tracking subjects remotely too. In my time with the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra, I've only encountered one major issue: sound from the gimbal's motor gets picked up by my iPhone 13's mic. This results in a quiet, but noticeable, background noise in all the videos I've recorded using the built-in mic; when I recorded using the DJI Mic 3 instead, the noise wasn't audible. It's an irritating issue, but it's not exclusive to this model. I went back and re-tested the Hohem iSteady M7 and Insta360 Flow Pro 2 with the same phone, and found the noise got picked up on these gimbals too. Still, if you're going to rely on your smartphone's built-in mic to record videos while using the iSteady V3 Ultra, do be aware that you'll likely hear this sound in the background. I've included a short video clip below so that you can hear it for yourself. While it's really the only major problem I have with the iSteady V3 Ultra, it's a fairly notable one. If you're using an external microphone for vlogging, it's not going to be an issue for you; if you're relying solely on your phone's mic, you may want to look elsewhere. The only other potential flaw with the V3 Ultra is that it uses a standard grip on the arm rather than a quick-release magnetic grip of the type seen on the recent DJI and Insta360 smartphone gimbals. This is more of a preference thing, however - some may prefer having the grip built into the gimbal arm, as it reduces the number of components required. All in all, I'm generally impressed with the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra. Its standout tracking skills and remote control make it the best small stabilizer around at the moment - although I expect the likes of DJI and Insta360 to offer strong competition in the near future. The iSteady V3 Ultra has an MSRP of $169 / £169 / AU$299 and is available to order now at Amazon or the Hohem online store. I'm also told by Hohem's PR representative that it will be sold at Best Buy from September 14, 2025. An Australian launch will follow - expect an update to this review once it's confirmed. Given the gimbal's specs and features, that feels like a competitive price to me. In comparison, the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro currently retails for $159.99 / £144.99 / AU$199.99, and the DJI Osmo Mobile 7P is $149 / £135 / AU$219, so you'll pay a slight premium for the iSteady V3 Ultra, but in my opinion, its tracking capabilities and remote control module make it worth the extra outlay. I used the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra for around a week in total, testing it out both handheld and set up on its built-in mini tripod. It was used with my Apple iPhone 13's front-facing and rear cameras, both indoors and outdoors, and I recorded video using a range of apps (the iPhone camera, Hohem Joy, Instagram) and both the iPhone's own microphone and a DJI Mic 3.

Meet the AI gimbal that outsmarts your smartphone

Smartphone cameras have come a long way but shaky footage can still ruin an otherwise great shot. Using a gimbal made for your mobile device is a great way to stabilize your footage. The Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra is not just as a stabilizer, but as what some might call an "Ultra AI Videographer." Smart tracking meets cinematic precision The iSteady V3 Ultra exceeds what a traditional gimbal can do, it's loaded with a suite of AI tools that feel straight out of the future. Its standout feature is the advanced multimodal AI tracker that benefits from training on millions of scenes, and effortlessly tracks pets, vehicles, or even hand gestures, making it ideal for dynamic situations like filming a playful pet or capturing action-packed moments. Paired with 360-degree infinite pan tracking, this will take filming your dog at the park or capturing a skateboard trick to the next level. A lot of that magic comes from the detachable 1.22-inch touchscreen remote, which doubles as a live monitor and control hub, enabling hassle-free group selfies or solo shots from a distance. This gives you the flexibility to compose your shots creatively without being physically behind the phone. From up to 33 feet away, you can select a tracking target with a quick tap, tweak gimbal movement, or even access built-in tutorials. You'll find this to be intuitive in a way that makes traditional app-tethered remotes feel outdated. Additionally, the built-in fill light offers warm, cool, and neutral tones so you can nail the lighting without lugging around extra gear. Frustrated trying to frame shots when using the rear camera for selfies? Never miss a perfectly composed moment with real-time monitoring. With so many features packed into the V3 Ultra, you'll be looking for any reasons to snap a shot or record a video. Built for creators on the move Stabilization is the name of the game, and Hohem delivers with its iSteady 9.0 anti-shake system. Paired with a 205mm extension pole, you get buttery-smooth footage that looks like it came from a pro rig. The design is foldable and compact, sliding easily into a backpack without the awkward bulk you may have experienced with other gimbals. If you prefer hands-free shooting, the gesture controls are reliable. A simple wave can trigger photo capture, start recording, or switch to portrait mode. This feature is perfect for vloggers and creators who don't want to fiddle with buttons mid-shot. Battery life is rated for about nine hours in balanced use, though heavy AI tracking and fill light cut that closer to four or five. That's still plenty for most shooting sessions. Compared to the competition, the iSteady V3 Ultra's versatility stands out. Other gimbals may offer person-tracking, but Hohem's native object tracking, detachable remote, and three-tone fill light set it apart. Add in the generous payload support, and it's not just another stabilizer, it's a true mobile production tool. If you're serious about creating polished, cinematic content without hauling around a full crew, the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra is the gimbal that delivers. The iSteady V3 Ultra will be available for purchase on the Best Buy online store starting September 14th, while hands-on experiences at participating Best Buy locations will kick off in mid-October, offering a flexible shopping experience that caters to both convenience seekers and those preferring tactile interaction.

3-Axis Stabilizer Review : AI Tracking, Touchscreen Remote & More

If you're looking for a compact, travel-friendly gimbal that doesn't compromise on professional features, I can definitely recommend checking out the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra. As someone who creates content regularly for social media and professional projects, I've put this gimbal through its paces in different environments, and the results have been consistently impressive. Connection to the phone application is Easy via Bluetooth, and there are plenty of options within the app that allow you to control your shots, resolutions, filters, and more. The addition of AI tracking is particularly handy, especially if you are a vlogger or would like to keep your subject in focus at all times. The iSteady V3 Ultra arrives in a small, compact box with the gimbal folded neatly inside, together with a charging cable and slip case, which will protect it while it's in your bag. Once you pick up the gimbal, you immediately feel the quality construction, and once powered o,n the integrated technology becomes apparent. The build quality is robust and offers premium functionality at an affordable price of under $200. At 400g maximum payload capacity, it handles my iPhone 15 Pro Max with ease, and the foldable design makes it genuinely portable -- a crucial factor for content creators on the go. I particularly like the way you can quickly change the orientation of your phone directly from the removable remote touchscreen control panel in the handle. Going from portrait to landscape as needed at the touch of a button on the touch screen interface. The standout feature that caught my attention immediately was the magnetic AI tracker module. This isn't just a gimmick; it's a genuinely useful tool that transforms how you approach mobile videography. The magnetic attachment system is both secure and convenient, with small release buttons providing the ability to quickly swap it from front-facing to rear-facing whenever required. The snap-on magnetic connection provides confidence that the tracker won't accidentally detach during use. Unlike traditional gimbals that require constant manual adjustment, the iSteady V3 Ultra's AI tracking system operates through intuitive gesture controls. Which can be enabled or disabled in the phone application. Working within the optimal range of 0.5 to 1.5 meters, the system responds reliably to hand gestures. To control the system if perhaps you have it on a tripod and are positioned a few feet away. The OK sign gesture activates tracking with a reassuring green light confirmation, while showing your palm stops tracking (indicated by a red light). What impressed me most was the double-L gesture for reframing -- this allows you to adjust composition mid-shot without breaking the tracking flow. The shutter control gesture works seamlessly, and the landscape/portrait switching gesture eliminates the need to physically adjust the gimbal orientation. Importantly, this AI tracking system works universally across all apps -- not just the Hohem Joy app. Whether I'm using the native camera app, Instagram, TikTok, or any video conferencing platform, the tracking functionality remains consistent. This universal compatibility is a significant advantage over competitors that lock you into proprietary ecosystems. The detachable remote controller with its color touchscreen interface is a fantastic addition and offers precise gimbal control. This isn't just an incremental improvement -- it's a complete reimagining of how users interact with their stabilizer. Having used previous Hohem models with traditional button navigation, the upgrade to a full-color touchscreen display is fantastic. The visual interface provides immediate access to manual orientation controls, working modes, and zoom functionality, all presented in an intuitive, graphical format that eliminates the guesswork of button combinations. You can even set up a color live feed that you can view directly on the mini handheld remote. The joystick integration is particularly well-executed. Pushing up and down tilts the gimbal accordingly, while left and right movements control pan. The long-press activation for the fill light feels natural and eliminates the need to memorize complex button combinations. During AI tracking sessions, being able to adjust composition using the joystick while maintaining tracking lock is incredibly useful. The shutter button's single-press functionality for both photos and video recording works flawlessly, and the tactile feedback provides confidence that commands have been registered. When attached to the handle, the remote powers the gimbal on and off simultaneously, creating a seamless user experience. The touchscreen's information display is comprehensive without being overwhelming. At a glance, I can monitor gimbal battery life, current working mode, AI tracking status, Bluetooth connectivity, and remote battery life. This real-time feedback eliminates guesswork and allows for better planning during shoots. Sliding right on the touchscreen reveals live feed monitoring options, while sliding left unveils advanced features that would typically require diving deep into app menus. The joystick parameters section allows fine-tuning of pan and roll rotation sensitivity, while quick access to panorama and timelapse modes streamlines workflow. The fill light functionality also deserves particular praise. Being able to adjust both temperature and brightness directly from the touchscreen, rather than relying on physical wheel controls, provides much more precise control. The language settings, gimbal sounds, and motor strength adjustments are all easily accessible, making the entire system highly customizable. The iSteady 8.0 stabilization algorithm delivers exceptional results across all four gimbal modes. Pan Follow mode is perfect for standard walking shots, providing smooth horizontal movement while locking vertical and roll axes. Pan and Tilt Follow mode adds vertical movement control, ideal for dynamic scenes requiring more complex camera movements. The POV (Point of View) mode unlocks all motors, allowing for creative roll movements that add cinematic flair to footage. Lock mode is invaluable for maintaining consistent framing while moving around subjects -- particularly useful for product demonstrations or interview scenarios. The trigger button's functionality is well-implemented: double-tap to recenter, triple-tap to flip between front and rear cameras, and hold for instant lock mode activation. The motor protection system provides peace of mind. For instance, if you accidentally grab the arm instead of the handle, the gimbal automatically shuts down to prevent damage. The 205mm extension rod, which slides out from the handle, transforms the gimbal's utility significantly. For group shots, pet photography, or capturing new angle shots or expansive landscapes, the extended reach eliminates the need for additional equipment. The ability to achieve high-angle shots or low-angle filming without uncomfortable positioning is a genuine workflow improvement. What strikes me most about this system is how such a compact, travel-friendly device maintains incredibly robust construction while delivering so many professional-grade features. The gimbal collapses down into a remarkably small form factor that's perfect for travel, yet unfolds to provide a wide variety of filming capabilities. The extendable tripod feet store neatly within the bottom of the handle, creating a neat design that allows perfect positioning at any height when recording from various surfaces. Whether I'm setting up for desktop vlogs or positioning the gimbal on uneven outdoor terrain, the extending tripod feature provides the stability needed for professional results. The AI tracking system truly excels in these scenarios -- even when I move around during recording, it consistently keeps my face in focus and properly framed. The 360° infinite pan tracking capability means there are no movement limitations, allowing for complete freedom during recording sessions. The AI live feed monitoring provides real-time feedback on tracking performance, ensuring optimal results throughout the shoot. The additional tripod mount at the bottom of the handle expands mounting options further, while the removable remote control becomes invaluable for making precise micro-adjustments without needing to physically touch the tripod or gimbal itself. With an effective range of up to 33 feet (10 meters), the remote provides genuine freedom for solo content creators who need to maintain distance from their setup. The upgraded fill light system delivers a 4%-100% brightness range, provides adequate lighting for most indoor scenarios, while the three-color temperature control (cool, warm, neutral) allows for proper color matching to ambient conditions. The side wheel control offers fluid brightness adjustment, though I found the touchscreen controls more precise for fine-tuning. Having three distinct color temperature options rather than just warm and cool provides more professional lighting control for different recording environments. The Hohem Joy app is available to download and install from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and requires Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity and serves as the gateway to advanced features within the comprehensive yet easy-to-use app. The application's interface is well-designed, offering both automatic and manual shooting modes. The manual mode's focus control capabilities provide professional-level control that's typically unavailable in smartphone apps. The pre-designed story templates are genuinely helpful for beginners, providing structured guidance for common shooting scenarios. The resolution and frame rate selection options cover all standard requirements, from social media content to professional production. The extensive compatibility list covers most major smartphones, though the notable exclusions of Xiaomi Ultra models seem arbitrary. The 400g payload limit and 12.5mm thickness restriction accommodate most devices, but users with heavy cases or unusual form factors should verify compatibility. The 58mm-98mm width range covers standard smartphones adequately, though the upper limit might exclude some tablets or unusually wide devices. During extended testing across various scenarios -- from outdoor vlogs to indoor product demonstrations -- the iSteady V3 Ultra consistently delivered smooth, professional-looking footage. The 9hr battery life easily supports full-day shooting sessions, and the USB-C charging with 5V-2A support provides reasonable charging speeds. The gesture recognition works reliably in good lighting conditions, though performance degrades in very low light or high-contrast situations. The AI tracking accuracy is impressive, maintaining subject lock even during rapid movements or partial occlusions. The Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra Gimbal Stabilizer offers a combination of magnetic AI tracking, touchscreen remote control, and comprehensive built-in features. That creates a complete, compact content creation solution that rivals much more expensive professional equipment. While the learning curve for mastering all features is steeper than basic gimbals, the investment in time pays dividends in creative flexibility and professional results. The universal app compatibility, innovative control interface, and thoughtful design details make this gimbal suitable for both casual users and serious content creators. For anyone serious about mobile videography, the iSteady V3 Ultra offers exceptional value and capability that justifies its position as a premium smartphone gimbal solution. The combination of innovation, build quality, and practical features makes it an easy recommendation for content creators seeking to improve their mobile filming capabilities. Physical Specifications: * Maximum Payload:400g (0.88lbs) * Smartphone Thickness: ≤12.5mm * Smartphone Width: 58mm-98mm (≤7 inches) * Extension Rod Length: 205mm built-in * Form Factor: Foldable and compact for travel * Built-in Tripod: Extendable legs with telescopic design * Additional Tripod Mount: Standard mount at bottom of handle Stabilization & Control: * Stabilization System: iSteady 8.0 algorithm with 3-axis stabilization * Pan Tracking: 360° infinite pan capability * Gimbal Modes: Pan Follow, Pan & Tilt Follow, POV, Lock Mode * Motor Protection: Automatic shutdown if improperly handled * AI Tracking Range: 0.5-1.5 meters (1.64-4.92 feet) * Remote Control Range: Up to 33 feet (10 meters) AI Tracking Features: * Magnetic AI Tracker: Detachable and reversible design * Universal App Compatibility: Works with all camera and streaming apps * Gesture Controls: OK sign, palm stop, double-L reframe, shutter control * AI Live Feed Monitoring: Real-time tracking feedback * Face Tracking: Automatic focus and framing maintenance Remote Control: * Type: Detachable color touchscreen interface * Display: Full-color touchscreen with intuitive controls * Joystick: Tilt and pan control with long-press fill light activation * Shutter Button: Single-press photo/video capture * Advanced Features: Swipe navigation for monitoring and parameters * Battery: Charges automatically when attached to the handle Fill Light System: * Maximum Illumination: 110 Lux * Brightness Range: 4%-100% adjustable * Color Temperature: Three options (cool, warm, neutral) * Control Methods: Side wheel and touchscreen adjustment Connectivity & App: * Charging: USB-C port with 5V-2A recommended * Battery Life: Full-day shooting capability * Firmware Updates: Available through the app Shooting Modes: * Manual and Automatic modes * Panorama: Clone me, 120°, 3×3 formats * Time-lapse: Fixed, custom, directional options * Additional Modes: Time warp, slow motion, moment capture * Pre-designed Templates: Story mode with guided shooting Compatibility: * iPhone: 15 Pro Max, 15 Pro, 15, 14 series, 13 series, 12 series, 11 series, XS Max, XS, XR, X * Samsung: Galaxy S23 Ultra, S21 Ultra, S21, S20 Ultra, S20, S10, S9 * Google: Pixel 6 Pro, 6, 5, 4 XL, 4 * Huawei: Mate 40 series, 30 series, P50 Pro, P40 series, P30 series, P20 series * OnePlus: 9 Pro, 8 Pro, 8, 7 Pro * OPPO: Reno6 series, 5 series, 3 Pro, Find X3, X2 series * VIVO: X70 series, X60 series, X50, X30 series * Note: Not compatible with Xiaomi Ultra models (11/12S/13/14 Ultra)