It’s not easy to find a gimbal that balances size, stability, and smarts—especially if you’re using a large phone. That’s where the Hohem iSteady M7 steps in. This 3-axis gimbal is built with content creators in mind, whether they’re filming TikToks, vlogging on YouTube, or shooting slick cinematic footage on the fly. The M7 doesn’t just make stabilization easy—it turns your smartphone into a portable production studio.
Designed to handle the growing size and weight of flagship phones, the iSteady M7 brings pro-level features like 360° infinite spin, advanced tracking, and customizable lighting options. It works with or without the app, making it a surprisingly versatile choice. From fast setup to buttery-smooth pans, this is a gimbal that doesn’t flinch under pressure.
Built for the Big Screens: A Gimbal That Gets It
The Hohem iSteady M7 was clearly designed with larger smartphones in mind. It supports devices up to 400g in weight—enough to handle the biggest iPhones and Android flagships, even with lenses or cases attached. Most gimbals choke under the weight, but the M7 holds firm.
What immediately stands out is the upgraded motor torque and stabilization algorithm. Movements feel natural, transitions are smooth, and whether you’re walking, running, or riding, the footage stays balanced. The M7 offers five different working modes: Pan Follow, Pan & Tilt Follow, All Lock, POV, and Inception Mode. These modes make it easy to switch between cinematic looks, all without touching the app if you don’t want to.
The handle grip is ergonomic and thoughtfully laid out, featuring a joystick, trigger, zoom/focus wheel, and mode button. One standout is the quick-release phone clamp with magnetic alignment, which makes mounting your phone feel effortless. And when it comes to filming in low-light situations? The M7’s modular fill light with RGB effects (sold separately) is magnetically attachable and brings studio vibes right to your handheld rig.
Creative Control with or Without the App
One of the biggest advantages of the iSteady M7 is that it doesn’t force you into app dependency. Yes, the Hohem Joy app offers full control and extra functionality—like face and object tracking, gesture controls, and timelapse programming—but even without it, the hardware is more than capable.
The app is relatively intuitive and connects easily via Bluetooth. Within it, users can access preset shooting templates, creative filming modes, and editing tools. The built-in AI tracking feature is impressively responsive and follows subjects with minimal lag, even as they move quickly or change directions.
For content creators who rely on speed, this is a plus. Shooting, saving, and uploading can be done straight from the default camera app while still enjoying mechanical stabilization from the M7. That means less time fiddling and more time creating.
Pro-Level Features Without the Intimidation
The Hohem iSteady M7 doesn’t just talk the talk—it brings advanced features that feel practical, not overwhelming. Its Inception Mode offers 360° rotation on the roll axis, letting users pull off those high-drama rotating shots you usually see in music videos or action flicks. It’s a feature usually reserved for expensive rigs, but here it’s just a button away.
Another highlight: the multifunction wheel. You can control focus or zoom electronically, which is particularly helpful when trying to maintain cinematic control in mobile footage. For creators shooting reels, interviews, or product videos, this gives your content a polished look without post-production fuss.
Battery life also impresses—lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge. And because the M7 supports reverse charging, you can use it as a power bank in a pinch. That’s a rare, thoughtful addition that shows Hohem understands what life is like behind the lens.
What’s in the Box: Extras That Actually Matter
Right out of the box, the iSteady M7 feels like a full kit. Included are the gimbal, tripod base, charging cable (USB-C), storage pouch, and a detailed quick-start guide. The optional RGB magnetic fill light accessory adds another layer of creative possibility and is worth considering for creators who shoot in dynamic or dim conditions.
The tripod base screws securely into the bottom and is sturdy enough to support the gimbal upright on most surfaces. It’s perfect for group shots, time-lapses, or hands-free content.
Also notable: the included storage pouch is soft, sleek, and compact. Many gimbals toss in a half-hearted case, but this one actually feels like it belongs in your gear bag.
Package Options & Bundles: Choose Your Shooting Style
Hohem has made it easier for creators to find the setup that best suits their filming needs by offering multiple configurations of the iSteady M7. Whether you’re looking to start simple or dive right into a full-featured creative setup, the available bundles give you options without overwhelming you with unnecessary accessories.
M7 Standalone Version
This is the base model and includes the iSteady M7 gimbal, a basic tripod, USB-C charging cable, and a soft storage pouch. It’s perfect for creators who already have external gear or those who want a lightweight, out-of-the-box stabilizer without any extras.
M7 with PLight & Briefcase Handle
This bundle includes the RGB PLight (magnetically attachable fill light) and a briefcase handle for low-angle shooting. Ideal for cinematic creators who want to enhance lighting control and film from dynamic perspectives like ground-level pans or low tracking shots.
M7 with Briefcase Handle
A more compact bundle that includes just the M7 and the briefcase handle. This is great for users who prefer enhanced grip and control—especially helpful for extended handheld sessions and those shooting action content close to the ground.
M7 with MIC-01 & Briefcase Handle
This combo adds the Hohem MIC-01 shotgun microphone to the mix, along with the briefcase handle. It’s geared toward vloggers, interviewers, and mobile filmmakers who need high-quality directional audio without syncing external tracks later.
M7 with MIC-01 & Quick-Release Tripod
Here, you get the MIC-01 mic and an upgraded tripod with a quick-release system. This is a great choice for creators who shoot both handheld and on a stable surface, allowing quick transitions between shooting styles while keeping the audio sharp.
M7 with PLight & MIC-01
A creator’s dream kit: this bundle pairs the RGB PLight and the MIC-01 microphone for both advanced lighting and audio support. Whether you’re streaming, recording, or vlogging, it covers your key sensory bases—ideal for creators who shoot in variable lighting and want clearer sound pickup.
M7 with Quick-Release Tripod
For those who want the convenience of easy setup and repositioning, this package includes the gimbal and a quick-release tripod—no mic, no fill light, just enhanced mobility for users who need to move fast and shoot smart.
These bundles make it easy to scale your gear as your content grows. Rather than locking users into one fixed path, Hohem gives creators the flexibility to start where they’re comfortable—and expand later without compatibility issue.
Pros and Cons of the Hohem iSteady M7
Pros
Handles devices up to 400g with ease—even with external lenses and heavy cases.
Full stabilization and key modes are available without needing the app.
Adds a dramatic, pro-level flair to footage with just a tap.
Offers extended shooting time and even doubles as a power bank.
RGB lighting attaches magnetically for cinematic lighting effects.
Durable, ergonomic, and ready for all-day shoots.
Cons
The magnetic light module must be purchased on its own.
Beginners may need time to get comfortable with features like Inception Mode and POV.
Like most gimbals, it doesn’t handle rain or moisture well.
Audio capture is limited to what your phone can record or external Bluetooth mic setups.
Real-World Use: A Gimbal for All Creators
Whether it’s filming tutorials, skateboarding reels, travel vlogs, or even just capturing family moments, the iSteady M7 shows up strong. The balance and motor calibration are tuned to absorb footstep motion and hand jitters without that robotic overcorrection some gimbals display.
Social media creators will appreciate how easily the M7 switches to vertical shooting—a must for Instagram and TikTok. It locks the phone in place confidently, and the stabilization holds up even while walking or performing quick moves.
Pair that with the long battery life and the ability to shoot in any lighting condition (especially with the optional fill light), and the iSteady M7 starts to look like a real powerhouse. It’s not just a stabilizer—it’s a handheld film toolkit.
Battery, Charging, and On-the-Go Usability
The iSteady M7 boasts an 18-hour runtime, thanks to a 2600mAh battery that charges via USB-C. That’s a serious edge over competitors, especially when shooting all day at events, on vacation, or during back-to-back content sessions.
Fast charging ensures you’re never out of commission for long, and the inclusion of reverse charging means your gimbal can top off your phone in emergencies. For mobile creators who constantly burn through battery, that’s a smart solution.
Another practical feature is the built-in indicator lights that show power and mode status. You’ll always know when it’s time to recharge or shift into a different filming mode—no guesswork required.
Durability and Build Quality: Rugged Without the Bulk
The iSteady M7 strikes a great balance between robust construction and portability. Its sleek black chassis has a professional, no-nonsense vibe, and it feels good in the hand. Despite its powerful motors and sturdy frame, it’s lightweight enough to carry for extended periods without fatigue.
The locking arm design allows for easier transport—just fold and lock, then slide it into a bag or pack. Every piece of hardware feels intentional, from the responsive buttons to the anti-slip grip.
Unlike budget gimbals that rattle or wear down quickly, the M7 stays silent and smooth. It gives off the confidence of a tool built to last, even in the hands of ambitious users.
Final Thoughts
The Hohem iSteady M7 is one of the best all-around smartphone gimbals available today—especially for creators using bigger phones. With its powerful motor system, pro-level features, and incredible battery life, it punches way above its price point.
Whether you’re a YouTuber, an IG Reel regular, or just someone who wants professional-looking video without lugging around a DSLR, the M7 delivers. And because it works well with or without the app, it adapts to both casual and advanced workflows.
Sure, you’ll need to grab the fill light separately if you want the full RGB experience, but the core product is solid, smooth, and satisfying. For under $150, it’s an impressive package that easily competes with pricier alternatives.