Are you tired of shaky, unprofessional-looking videos from your smartphone? With the rise of short-form video content, a reliable gimbal has become an essential tool for creators. But not all gimbals are created equal. Enter the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra – a compact powerhouse that’s turning heads in the world of smartphone videography. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a tiny gimbal really deliver giant features without compromising on performance? Let’s dive in and find out.
The Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their smartphone videography. While smartphone gimbals have been around for a while, this one stands out with its impressive array of features at an astonishingly affordable price. Hohem generously provided me with the gimbal for this review, and I’ve been putting it through its paces.
First impressions matter, and the iSteady V3 Ultra doesn’t disappoint. One of the biggest challenges for video creators is achieving steady footage while being in front of the camera or focusing on their subject. This gimbal solves that problem effortlessly. Its compact design allows it to fold into a pocket-sized unit, making it perfect for on-the-go creators. Weighing just 15.1 ounces (428 grams), it’s lightweight yet sturdy, and it comes with a soft cloth storage pouch for added convenience. Compatible with smartphones ranging from 2.3 to 3.9 inches (5.8 to 9.8 cm) in width, it’s a versatile tool for both Apple and Android users. The three powerful motors handle phones up to 14.1 ounces (400 grams), ensuring even the heaviest devices, like my iPhone 17 Pro Max, remain rock-solid during use – even while walking at a brisk pace.
Setting up the iSteady V3 Ultra is a breeze. The strong clamp securely holds your phone, eliminating worries about it slipping during movement. Balancing is equally simple: just slide the phone into the clamp until it’s centered, and you’re ready to go. Handy instruction stickers on the gimbal guide you through folding and touchscreen controls, while a QR code links to a helpful video tutorial. And this is the part most people miss: its self-contained design requires no wires, making it a truly hassle-free experience.
The gimbal’s 1600 mAh battery, built into the handle, provides up to 9 hours of use on a single charge. While this drops to 4-5 hours when using the fill light and AI tracker, it’s still impressive. Charging takes just 2.5 hours via the included USB-C cable, though it doesn’t come with a power brick. The iSteady V3 Ultra also includes a detachable remote control screen and a magnetic AI tracker with an adjustable color temperature fill light, both of which can be stored directly on the gimbal.
Now, let’s talk about the detachable touchscreen remote control – a feature that’s both impressive and incredibly useful. With its 1.2-inch screen, you can command the gimbal and view live footage from your smartphone. The joystick and side wheel control the gimbal’s movements and fill light, respectively, giving you precise control. It works up to 32.8 feet (10 meters) away, and additional settings include lighting control, shooting modes, quick tracking, and subject reframing. Presets like auto roll and pan, panorama, and time-lapse make it even more versatile.
Gesture control is another standout feature. When the gimbal is on a table or tripod, simply hold up an ‘OK’ sign to start the AI tracker, or use a palm-forward gesture to stop it. Gestures can also adjust composition, start or stop recording, and switch between portrait and landscape modes. This makes it incredibly easy for creators to be in the shot without needing an assistant.
Speaking of portrait and landscape modes, switching between them is a breeze with the iSteady V3 Ultra. Unlike other gimbals that make this process cumbersome, a single tap on the touchscreen or a gesture does the trick. It doesn’t get easier than this!
Mounting options are plentiful. The gimbal features a small integrated tripod and a 1/4-20 standard socket for compatibility with tripods or light stands. One of its most innovative features is the built-in 3-section extension pole, perfect for overhead shots or selfie-style videos. The pole includes a joint at the top for tilting the gimbal into the desired orientation. However, here’s a potential point of contention: with heavier phones like the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the joint can slip during sudden movements. Hohem includes a hex wrench to tighten it, but there’s no dedicated storage spot on the gimbal, which can be inconvenient.
The iSteady V3 Ultra’s AI features are where it truly shines. With a simple gesture or command on the remote, the gimbal automatically tracks your subject, delivering smooth, professional-quality shots. Whether you’re filming a workout at the gym or tracking a friend walking beside you, the AI tracker handles the work while you enjoy the results. Hohem’s tutorial videos make it easy to master these features, covering everything from setup to advanced techniques.
Editor's Choice: I love it and use it! The iSteady V3 Ultra earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. Its AI tracking module, which doubles as a fill light, is a standout feature, and the motors handle even the heaviest phones with ease. Its compact, foldable design and included storage pouch make it perfect for travel, though the built-in battery means it must be carried in your carry-on luggage. Unfolding, attaching, and balancing your phone is quick and intuitive, and Bluetooth connectivity ensures you don’t need to re-pair your device. The gimbal controls most of your phone’s camera functions, though zooming requires the Hohem Joy app, which can be jerky and lacks support for the full zoom range of devices like the iPhone 17 Pro Max. It also doesn’t support Apple ProRes or Cinematic mode, though it does shoot 4K video at 60 fps.
While I have minor gripes – like the lack of storage for the hex wrench and the app’s limitations – these are small trade-offs for an otherwise exceptional gimbal. But here’s the question: Is the iSteady V3 Ultra the ultimate gimbal for smartphone creators, or are its limitations a deal-breaker? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
Lastly, don’t forget to check out the second annual Visual Storytelling Conference, happening March 10-13, 2022. This free, four-day online event features interactive training sessions with experienced photographers and content creators. It’s a fantastic opportunity to level up your skills!
Posted on November 18, 2025
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