The Best iPhone Gimbals for 2026 — Why Hohem Leads the Pack for iPhone 15, 16 & 17

Apple has done an impressive job with video stabilization on the iPhone 15, 16, and now the 17 series. Thanks to a combination of optical image stabilization (OIS), electronic image stabilization (EIS), and advanced computational processing, iPhones can capture surprisingly smooth footage straight out of the box.

But if you’ve ever tried filming while walking, panning quickly, or shooting in low light, you’ve probably noticed the limits. Small micro-jitters still show up in walking shots, handheld movement feels restricted, and EIS often struggles at night—introducing noise, cropping, or an artificial “floating” look.

This is where gimbals still play a critical role. A dedicated gimbal adds mechanical stabilization, smoothing motion before software gets involved. Hohem has built its reputation around pushing iPhone stabilization beyond what the phone alone can achieve, making it easier to create cinematic, professional-looking videos. In this guide, we’ll break down why Hohem gimbals stand out in 2026 and which options work best for different iPhone users.

What Makes Hohem Gimbals Perfect for iPhone 15 / 16 / 17

Modern iPhones use larger sensors to improve detail and low-light performance. While this is great for image quality, it also means the camera is more sensitive to movement. Hohem gimbals physically stabilize motion before EIS kicks in, resulting in smoother, more natural footage—especially when walking or tracking a subject.

High Payload Support for Heavier iPhones

iPhones are getting heavier with each generation due to larger batteries, advanced camera systems, and features like Tetraprism zoom. To keep footage stable, modern gimbals need stronger motors and higher load tolerance. Hohem gimbals are built with this in mind, with models like the Hohem iSteady M7 supporting payloads of up to 500g, giving creators plenty of headroom even with fully rigged setups.

This makes Hohem gimbals reliable for handling:

• Heavier iPhone Pro and Pro Max models
• Protective cases and battery grips
• ND filters, clip-on lenses, and external microphones
  

Perfect for Action Mode & ProRes Users

When shooting ProRes, LOG, or low-light handheld footage, slower shutter speeds are common. Gimbals help prevent motion blur in these situations, making them essential for creators who want maximum image quality from their iPhone.

AI Tracking That Works With Any App

Unlike app-locked tracking systems, Hohem’s dedicated AI tracking works independently. That means it can be used with:

• The native iPhone camera app
• Blackmagic Camera
• TikTok, Instagram, or livestream apps

This flexibility is especially valuable for solo creators.

Vertical Shooting for Social Media

Vertical video is no longer optional. Hohem gimbals support physical vertical rotation and hold heavier iPhones securely without drift—ideal for TikTok, Reels, and Shorts.

The 6 Best Hohem Gimbals for iPhone

Best Overall: Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra

• ~400g payload
• Strong balance of features and portability
• Built-in AI tracking module

This is an excellent all-around option for iPhone 16 and 17 users who add light accessories but still want mobility.

Best for Power Users: Hohem iSteady M7

• ~500g payload (top-tier support)
• Handles cages, ND filters, anamorphic lenses
• Full tilt range and remote-controlled movement

Best Compact Option: Hohem iSteady X3 SE

• Lightweight, foldable, and budget-friendly
• Great for travel vloggers
• Strong stabilization with a simpler feature set

Perfect for creators who want smooth footage without carrying bulky gear.

Best Value for Creators: Hohem iSteady V3 (Standard)

• AI face and object tracking
• Solid payload and portability
• A great middle ground for most creators

Best for Beginners: Hohem X-Series

• Easy setup and intuitive controls
• Optional remote control
• Built-in shooting guides for learning basic gimbal moves

Best for Social Media & Vertical Creators: V3 Ultra or M7

• Fast vertical switching
• Stable vertical shooting for heavier iPhones
• Ideal for TikTok and Reels creators using iPhone 16 or 17

Why Hohem Outperforms Other Gimbal Brands for iPhone

Higher Payload at Every Price Point

Hohem gimbals generally support heavier phone setups than many compact competitors, making them better suited for modern iPhones with accessories.

Better Tilt Range for Cinematic Shots

Many foldable gimbals limit tilt to save space. Hohem’s higher-end designs allow steeper angles and crane-style movements that feel closer to mirrorless camera gimbals.

AI Tracking Outside the Gimbal App

Hohem’s hardware-based tracking works across apps, which is a major advantage for creators who livestream or use third-party camera apps.

Longer Battery Life

With typical runtimes around 9–12 hours, Hohem gimbals are reliable for full-day shoots, travel, and events.

Better Value Without Sacrificing Performance

Hohem consistently delivers strong feature sets at more accessible price points compared to premium competitors.

How Hohem Enhances iPhone 15 / 16 / 17 Video Performance

• Cleaner walking shots with reduced micro-jitter
• Improved low-light footage by allowing slower shutter speeds without blur
• Smoother cinematic movement for parallax reveals, orbits, and hyperlapses
• A full creative toolkit, including inception rotation, motion-lapse, dolly zoom, and auto-tracking for solo creators

Together, mechanical stabilization and Apple’s software processing create noticeably more polished results.

Which Hohem Gimbal Is Right for Your iPhone?

• iPhone 15 users: X3 SE (budget) or V3 Ultra (balanced)
• iPhone 16 users: V3 Ultra (feature-rich) or M7 (advanced rigs)
• iPhone 17 users: M7 (maximum payload and control) or V3 Ultra (everyday creators)
  

Choosing the right gimbal depends on how much gear you use and how you like to shoot.

The Best iPhone Gimbals for 2026 Are Hohem

Even with Apple’s impressive stabilization, gimbals remain essential for creators who want smooth motion, better low-light performance, and true cinematic control. Hohem’s lineup is built specifically for modern iPhones, offering strong payload support, flexible AI tracking, and creative tools that grow with your skills.

If you’re serious about mobile filmmaking in 2026, the smartest upgrade isn’t a new phone—it’s the right gimbal.