Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra: The Best Small Smartphone Stabilizer for Tracking
▼ Summary
– The Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra is a compact smartphone stabilizer with excellent AI-assisted subject tracking that works with any app and both front and rear cameras.
– It includes a removable touchscreen remote control with a 10m range and a built-in fill light with adjustable brightness and color tones.
– The stabilizer features a folding design, built-in mini tripod, and an extension rod for extra reach, making it highly portable and versatile.
– A notable drawback is that the gimbal motor noise is picked up by the phone’s built-in microphone, requiring an external mic for clean audio.
– Priced at $169, it is slightly more expensive than competitors but offers superior tracking and remote control features.
When it comes to keeping your smartphone footage smooth and your subject perfectly framed, the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra stands out as a top-tier compact stabilizer. Its AI-powered tracking module delivers impressive accuracy, working seamlessly across various apps without locking you into proprietary software. A built-in fill light and a clever detachable remote with touchscreen control further elevate its appeal, though users should note that motor noise may require an external microphone for clean audio capture.
This smartphone gimbal excels in its core function: keeping moving subjects in focus. Thanks to a built-in 2MP camera within the tracking module, it follows not only people but also objects, maintaining a steady lock even as they circle the device. The 360-degree handle rotation and included mini tripod make it versatile for both handheld and stationary setups. What’s particularly impressive is that this tracking works with both front and rear cameras, and it’s compatible with popular apps like TikTok, Instagram, and Zoom right out of the box.
During testing, the module-based tracking proved more flexible than software alternatives, allowing off-center framing while still keeping the subject in view. The fill light, with its adjustable color temperature and brightness, is a thoughtful addition that enhances usability in low-light conditions.
Design-wise, the iSteady V3 Ultra folds down compactly and includes a retractable extension rod for extra reach. The removable remote control is a highlight, offering wireless operation up to 10 meters and a live view from the tracker’s perspective. This lets you adjust angles, start and stop recording, and even set tracking subjects from a distance.
One notable drawback is the motor noise picked up by the phone’s internal microphone. While this is a common issue among gimbals, it’s something to consider if you rely on built-in audio. Using an external mic like the DJI Mic 3 eliminates the problem entirely.
The grip uses a standard clamp rather than a magnetic quick-release system, which may be a minor inconvenience for some. Still, the overall build feels sturdy and well thought out.
Priced at $169, the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra sits slightly above competitors like the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro and DJI Osmo Mobile 7P, but its advanced tracking and included remote justify the premium for serious creators.
If you need reliable subject tracking, remote operation, and a portable design, this gimbal is an excellent choice. However, budget-conscious users or those unwilling to use an external microphone may want to explore other options. For now, it’s one of the most capable compact stabilizers available.
(Source: techradar)
