Hohem iSteady M7 Review: The Ultimate Smartphone Gimbal for Solo Creators in 2025

Hohem iSteady M7: Smartphone filmmaking has surged in popularity, with creators leveraging powerful devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max to produce cinematic videos. However, even the best smartphones benefit from a gimbal to achieve professional-grade stabilization and dynamic shots.

Enter the Hohem iSteady M7, a flagship smartphone gimbal designed for solo creators, vloggers, and professional filmmakers. Packed with advanced features like AI-powered tracking, a detachable touchscreen remote, and a 500g payload capacity, the iSteady M7 stands out as a game-changer in 2025.

In this detailed review, inspired by hands-on insights from tech creator Jason (JSL newsletter), we’ll explore why the iSteady M7 is the best gimbal for solo creators, its standout features, and how it compares to competitors like the DJI Osmo Mobile and Insta360 Flow 2 Pro. Whether you’re a YouTuber, TikTok creator, or travel vlogger, this SEO-friendly guide will help you decide if the iSteady M7 is worth the $269 investment.

Why Choose the Hohem iSteady M7 in 2025?

The Hohem iSteady M7 succeeds the popular iSteady M6 and introduces groundbreaking features that cater to professional and solo creators. Unlike entry-level gimbals like the Hohem iSteady V3, which Jason praised for beginners, the M7 is tailored for those seeking pro-level control without a crew. Its robust design, intuitive controls, and app-agnostic AI tracking make it ideal for:

• Solo Filmmakers: Remote control and AI tracking simplify self-shooting.
• Vloggers: Smooth stabilization and gesture controls enhance on-the-go content.
• Professional Creators: High payload and accessory support handle heavy setups.

Price: $269 (use code 9TO5TOYS for discounts at select retailers like Amazon)
Availability: Amazon, Hohem Store, B&H Photo
Sources: Insights from Jason’s review, Wired, DroneDJ, and Hohem’s official site

Design and Build: Robust and Professional

The iSteady M7’s design screams durability and functionality, setting it apart from compact gimbals like the DJI Osmo Mobile 6. Here’s a breakdown of its build:

• Ergonomic Grip: The textured rubber handle offers a secure, comfortable hold, ideal for extended shoots. Its thicker design feels more substantial than entry-level gimbals, as Jason noted.
• Weight and Size: At 629g (1.4 lbs) and 13.2 x 6.2 x 2.2 inches (folded), it’s bulkier than the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro. However, it includes a hard carrying case for safe transport.
• Color and Aesthetic: Vibrant orange accents contrast the industrial black, giving it a modern, professional look.
• Tripod and Locks: A screw-on mini tripod (included) allows stable mounting on flat surfaces, perfect for solo run-and-gun filming. Axis locks secure the motors during storage, reducing wear.
• Payload Capacity: Supports up to 500g (17.6 oz), accommodating large phones like the iPhone 16 Pro Max with cases, mics, or lenses without balance issues.

Pro Tip: The M7’s high payload makes it ideal for creators using foldable phones (e.g., Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6) or heavy accessories, unlike lighter gimbals limited to 300g.

Drawback: Its size and weight (25.6 oz with tripod) make it less pocketable than the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro, requiring a backpack for travel.

Key Features: What Makes the iSteady M7 Stand Out?

The iSteady M7 is packed with innovative features that elevate smartphone videography. Here’s why it’s a top choice for solo creators in 2025:

1. Advanced AI Tracking with Magnetic Module

The M7’s detachable AI tracker is a standout, offering app-agnostic subject tracking without Bluetooth or proprietary apps. Key features include:

• Versatile Tracking: Tracks people, pets, vehicles, or objects (e.g., cars, buildings) with a 2MP camera and advanced algorithms. It recovers tracking even if the subject is briefly blocked.
• Gesture Control: Use hand signals (OK to start, palm to stop, thumb to switch orientation) for hands-free operation, ideal for solo shoots.
• Magnetic Design: The reversible tracker attaches magnetically, supporting both front and rear camera shots.
• App-Free Operation: Works with native camera apps (iOS/Android), FaceTime, TikTok, or Instagram, unlike competitors like Insta360 Flow, which rely on Apple DockKit for limited third-party tracking.

Why It’s Great: As Jason highlighted, the AI tracker locks onto subjects reliably, even during fast movement, making it perfect for dynamic vlogs or action shots.

2. Detachable 1.4-Inch Touchscreen Remote

The M7’s 1.4-inch full-color LCD touchscreen remote is a game-changer for solo creators, offering:

• Real-Time Preview: Displays the AI tracker’s feed, letting you frame shots without checking your phone. Note: It shows the tracker’s view, not the phone’s exact camera feed, which may cause minor autofocus discrepancies.
• Remote Control: Adjust settings, trigger recordings, or control fill lights from up to 10 meters (32.8 ft) away.
• Intuitive Interface: Navigate gimbal modes, joystick speed, or motion timelapses via taps and swipes. Users with larger fingers may need practice for precision.
• Wireless Operation: Detaches magnetically and charges when attached to the handle, reducing cable clutter.

Why It’s Great: Jason called this a “game-changer” for solo filmmakers, as it acts like a second pair of eyes, ensuring perfect framing when using rear cameras.

3. Superior Stabilization with iSteady 9.0

The M7’s orthogonal 3-axis stabilization (pitch, yaw, roll) delivers cinematic smoothness, rivaling professional camera gimbals:

• Range of Motion: 360° infinite pan, 325° tilt, and ±45° roll for unrestricted shots.
• High-Torque Motors: Handles heavy phones and accessories, maintaining stability during walking, running, or sudden turns.
• Modes:
  • Pan Follow: Stabilizes left-right movement, ideal for vlogging.
  • Pan and Tilt Follow: Smooths pan and tilt, great for B-roll.
  • POV Mode: Unlocks all axes for FPV-drone-like shots.
  • Lock Mode: Fixes all axes for pull or dolly shots.
  • Inception Mode: Triple-press the M button for a 360° spin in flashlight position, creating dynamic footage.
• Wide-Angle Mode: Press the trigger four times to reposition the arm, preventing it from obstructing wide-angle lenses.

Why It’s Great: DroneDJ’s tests confirmed rock-solid stabilization, even during quick movements, making it ideal for action-packed shoots.

4. Built-In Fill Light

The AI tracker module includes an RGB and CCT fill light:

• RGB: 360° color options for creative effects.
• CCT: Adjustable from 2700K to 6500K for warm-to-cool lighting.
• Control: Adjust brightness and temperature via the side wheel or remote, perfect for low-light conditions.

Why It’s Great: Eliminates the need for separate lighting gear, saving space for mobile creators.

5. Integrated Extension Rod and Tripod

• 193mm Extension Pole: Telescopes from the handle for high/low-angle shots or selfies, adding versatility without extra bulk.
• Mini Tripod: Screws into the 1/4″-20 thread for stable hands-free shots.

Why It’s Great: Jason praised the pole for enabling creative angles that are typically hard to achieve solo.

6. Long Battery Life and Reverse Charging

• Battery: 3200mAh, up to 12 hours (8 hours with AI tracking, 3-4 hours with tracking and fill light).
• Reverse Charging: Powers your phone via USB-C, ideal for long shoots.
• Charging Ports: Two USB-C ports (one for gimbal, one for phone).

Why It’s Great: The 12-hour battery supports all-day shooting, and reverse charging is a lifesaver for extended sessions.

7. Accessory Support

• Mounting Points: Three 1/4″-20 threads (phone clamp and handle) for mics, lights, or counterweights.
• Compatibility: Supports accessories like DJI Mic 2 with a Vello Dual Cold Shoe Bracket.

Why It’s Great: Perfect for creators using professional setups with external lenses or wireless mics.

8. Hohem Joy App

While the M7’s AI tracking is app-agnostic, the Hohem Joy app (iOS/Android) unlocks:

• Creative Modes: Panorama, timelapse, slow motion, and Moment templates for cinematic effects.
• Object Tracking: Select targets on-screen for precise tracking.
• Tutorials: Guides for specific shots, ideal for beginners.

Why It’s Great: The app enhances creativity, though most features are accessible without it, reducing reliance on software.

Performance: How Does the iSteady M7 Hold Up?

In hands-on tests by Jason, DroneDJ, and Wired, the iSteady M7 excelled in real-world scenarios:

• Stabilization: Delivered smooth footage while walking, running, or panning, even with heavy phones and accessories.
• AI Tracking: The magnetic tracker locked onto subjects (people, pets, objects) with precision, even during rapid movement or partial obstruction.
• Solo Filming: The touchscreen remote and gesture controls streamlined self-shooting, making it ideal for vloggers or travel creators.
• Creative Shots: Inception mode and the extension pole enabled dynamic, professional-grade footage, like 360° spins or low-angle action shots.

User Feedback: X posts praise the M7’s ability to handle heavy phones and its advanced tracking, with creators like @UpsideLens calling it unmatched for bulky setups.

Comparison: Hohem iSteady M7 vs. Competitors

How does the M7 stack up against other top gimbals in 2025? Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Hohem iSteady M7	DJI Osmo Mobile 6	Insta360 Flow 2 Pro
Price	$269	$149	$179
Payload Capacity	500g	290g	300g
Battery Life	12 hours	6 hours	10 hours
AI Tracking	App-agnostic, magnetic	App-dependent	DockKit-dependent
Touchscreen Remote	Yes, detachable	No	No
Extension Rod	Built-in, 193mm	Built-in, 215mm	Built-in, 200mm
Weight	629g	309g	365g
Foldable	Semi-foldable	Fully foldable	Fully foldable

Why Choose the M7?

• Best for Heavy Phones: Its 500g payload handles large devices and accessories, unlike DJI or Insta360.
• Solo Creator-Friendly: The touchscreen remote and app-free tracking outshine competitors for self-shooting.
• Drawbacks: More expensive and less portable than DJI or Insta360, making it overkill for casual users.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional 3-axis stabilization with iSteady 9.0 technology.
• App-agnostic AI tracking with gesture control.
• Detachable touchscreen remote for real-time framing.
• High 500g payload for large phones and accessories.
• Built-in extension rod, tripod, and fill light.
• 12-hour battery with reverse charging.
• Multiple mounting points for professional setups.

Cons

• Bulky and heavy (629g), not pocketable.
• Touchscreen navigation may be tricky for users with large fingers.
• Higher price ($269) compared to budget gimbals like DJI Osmo Mobile 6.
• Remote shows AI tracker feed, not phone camera feed, which may cause minor framing issues.

Who Should Buy the Hohem iSteady M7?

The iSteady M7 is ideal for:

• Solo Creators: Vloggers, YouTubers, or TikTokers shooting without a crew.
• Professional Filmmakers: Those using heavy phones or accessories for cinematic projects.
• Travel Vloggers: Creators needing durable, versatile tools for dynamic shots.
• Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want cutting-edge features like AI tracking and remote control.

Skip It If: You’re a casual user needing a compact, budget-friendly gimbal (try the Hohem iSteady V3 or DJI Osmo Mobile 6) or don’t need advanced features.

Pricing and Availability

• Price: $269 (₹35,990 in India).
• Discounts: Use code 9TO5TOYS for $30 off at select retailers (e.g., Amazon).
• Where to Buy: Amazon, Hohem Store, B&H Photo, or DesignInfo.in (backorders for April 2025).
• Bundle Options: Available with accessories like a briefcase handle, MIC-01, or quick-release tripod.

Conclusion: Is the Hohem iSteady M7 Worth It?

The Hohem iSteady M7 redefines smartphone gimbals with its professional-grade features, making it the ultimate tool for solo creators in 2025. Its AI-powered tracking, detachable touchscreen remote, and robust 500g payload capacity set it apart from competitors like the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 and Insta360 Flow 2 Pro. While its bulkier design and $269 price may deter casual users, the M7’s versatility, stabilization, and solo-friendly features make it a worthwhile investment for vloggers, filmmakers, and content creators aiming for cinematic quality. As Jason from JSL noted, it’s a “feature-packed tool” that elevates smartphone video to a new level, especially for those shooting alone.