Zhiyun Smooth 5S vs Hohem iSteady M6 gimbal
let’s break down the Zhiyun Smooth 5S and the Hohem iSteady M6. Both are capable 3-axis smartphone gimbals aimed at serious mobile videographers, but they have distinct features and strengths.
Here’s a comparison:
Zhiyun Smooth 5S vs. Hohem iSteady M6
| Feature | Zhiyun Smooth 5S | Hohem iSteady M6 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stabilization | 3-Axis | 3-Axis | Both offer strong stabilization. Smooth 5S often praised for pro-grade motors. |
| Payload | Up to ~300-320g (depending on phone balance) | Up to 400g | M6 has a significantly higher payload capacity, better for heavier phones/accessories. |
| Build & Design | Robust, professional feel. Not foldable. | Solid build, ergonomic grip. Not foldable. | Both are relatively large, non-folding designs, suggesting durability over portability. |
| Built-in Light | Yes, integrated fill light (300 lumens). Also has magnetic contact points for additional magnetic lights (sold separately). | Yes, integrated magnetic fill light with AI Vision Sensor (CCT/RGB options). | M6 integrates the light with the AI sensor. Smooth 5S has a simpler built-in light but allows expansion. |
| AI Tracking | Requires Zhiyun’s ZY Cami app. | Built-in AI Vision Sensor for tracking without an app. Also supports app-based tracking. | Major difference: M6’s integrated AI sensor is a key selling point for convenience. |
| Controls | Joystick, mode button, record, menu button, prominent side wheel (focus/zoom), control panel with dial. | Joystick, mode button, record, trigger, multi-function wheel, small OLED display. | Smooth 5S has a more traditional camera-like control layout with the large wheel. M6 uses an OLED screen for status and integrates controls differently. |
| Rotation Range | Pan: 360°, Tilt: 349°, Roll: 300° | Pan: 360° Infinite (Inception mode), Tilt: 335°, Roll: 335° | M6 offers infinite 360° panning. |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours (theoretical, lab conditions) | Up to 18 hours (with AI/light off), 6-8 hours (with AI/light) | Smooth 5S boasts longer theoretical max battery life. Real-world usage varies. |
| Charging | USB-C charging. Can charge the phone (5V/2A output). | USB-C charging. Can charge the phone (reverse charging). | Both offer reverse charging for your phone. |
| App | ZY Cami | Hohem Joy | Both apps unlock advanced features (timelapse, dolly zoom, etc.). User experience can be subjective. |
| Key Standouts | Pro-grade motors, versatile control wheel, option for extra magnetic lights. | Integrated AI tracking sensor (app-free), high payload, 360° infinite pan, OLED display. | Highlights the unique selling points. |
| Price Point | Generally mid-to-high range for smartphone gimbals. | Generally mid-to-high range, often very competitive with the 5S. | Prices fluctuate, check current retailers. |
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Summary & Who Should Choose Which:
Zhiyun Smooth 5S pros and cons
No products found.
- Pros:
- Excellent stabilization with professional-grade motors.
- Robust build quality.
- Versatile control wheel ideal for precise focus/zoom pulls.
- Good built-in light with options to add more magnetic lights.
- Potentially longer maximum battery life.
- Cons:
- AI tracking is dependent on the ZY Cami app.
- Lower payload capacity compared to the M6.
- Can feel bulky; not foldable.
- Choose the Smooth 5S if: You prioritize a robust, professional feel, want that large control wheel for manual adjustments, value Zhiyun’s ecosystem (potentially adding more lights), and don’t mind relying on the app for AI tracking.
Hohem iSteady M6 pros and cons
No products found.
- Pros:
- App-free AI tracking via the integrated magnetic sensor/light module is very convenient.
- Higher payload capacity (400g) handles larger phones and accessories better.
- Integrated Fill Light (CCT/RGB) with AI sensor is a neat package.
- 360° infinite panning allows for creative shots (inception mode).
- Helpful OLED status display.
- Cons:
- Battery life might be shorter, especially when using the AI sensor/light.
- Build quality is good, but some might slightly prefer the feel of the Smooth 5S.
- Hohem Joy app might be considered slightly less mature by some users compared to ZY Cami (though constantly improving).
- Choose the iSteady M6 if: The convenience of built-in, app-free AI tracking is your top priority. You have a heavy phone or plan to use lens attachments/microphones (need the higher payload). You like the idea of the integrated light/sensor module and the creative potential of infinite panning.
Conclusion:
Both are excellent, feature-packed gimbals. The Hohem iSteady M6 stands out with its innovative integrated AI tracking sensor and higher payload, making it arguably more convenient and versatile for users who want reliable tracking without app dependence or need to carry heavier setups. The Zhiyun Smooth 5S counters with its pro-grade build and controls, particularly the large focus/zoom wheel, appealing to those who want a more tactile, traditional control experience and trust Zhiyun’s established ecosystem.
Your choice depends heavily on whether app-free AI tracking and payload (M6) or pro-level controls and build (Smooth 5S) are more important for your specific needs.
