Hohem iSteady X2 review

The Hohem iSteady X2 is a compact smartphone gimbal which also serves as a powerbank

Hohem iSteady X2 review
(Image: © Adam Juniper/Digital Camera World)

Digital Camera World Verdict

The upgraded Hohem iSteady X2 brings steady video and a sensible app which vloggers (and indeed any filmmakers who love their phones) will be have no trouble carrying with them. Given the accessible price, good grip, and the completeness of the package, this should be shortlisted by anyone looking to do pieces to camera or get social-ready shots. High-end users, however, might well seek softer analogue zoom controls and a pro-style trigger switch (but they should be prepared to pay for them).

Pros

  • +

    Can be used as a power bank

  • +

    Remote control operates gimbal and start/stop

  • +

    Wide range of gimbal motion

  • +

    Accessories including stand, case and strap

  • +

    Light to hold, ideal for talking to camera

  • +

    App has effects, but remains uncluttered

Cons

  • -

    No built-in LED light

  • -

    Buttons make a loud click when pressed

  • -

    Level can drift on long shots

  • -

    No Lightning cable for power bank function

  • -

    Handle could be larger

  • -

    App seems to want personal data

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The Hohem iSteady X2 gimbal makes no bones about its target market being vloggers taking on social media, and given the quality of the phone cameras it can handle, why should it? It is the second in Hohem’s iSteady line and, against its predecessor, the X2 has gained two more hours' battery time, the bi-directional charging function, and an improved grip. Much of the mechanism is clearly the same but there is also now remote control in the box which was a paid-for upgrade for the previous edition. 

Specifications

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Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook