Have you ever wished your charger could express its deepest, most heartfelt emotions? Perhaps you wondered how it really feels while it juices up your devices? OK, maybe you haven’t. But even so, the UGreen Uno Charger 100W is sure to put a smile on your face with its charming expressions and super-fast charging, which make it a standout product in a competitive market.
Something that’s amazing about the UGreen Uno Charger 100W is that you get four charging ports, three of which are USB-C with the other being USB-A. This means that even if your phone, laptop, wireless headphones and tablet (just for example) need juicing up, you can get all of them back to life simultaneously. It’s worth mentioning, however, that the UGreen Uno Charger 100W doesn’t come with any charging cables, so you’ll need to acquire these separately.
So how does it fare charging-wise? Very well indeed. I attempted to charge the Samsung Galaxy A35 via a USB-C port while charging three other devices in the remaining slots. And luckily, it got back to full power in the expected timeframe of one hour and 30 minutes – that’s in-line with some of the best iPhone chargers and best Android phone chargers. However, if you’re not using all of the ports, power output can scale to fit your device’s requirements. For instance, the top two USB-C ports can deliver up to 100W each (if only one is being used at a time), making this a great choice if you want to charge more demanding devices.
But I’ll be honest, reader, I know why you’re here…you want to hear about the Uno Charger’s emotive display. And it works very nicely. The charger is bursting with emotions – from joyful, through surprised, to flushed. And there are a few more too, for instance, the Uno Charger sometimes assumes an eating animation when in-use or displays a ‘cool’ emoji when a device is fully charged. Am I easily amused? Perhaps so, but given this is nothing but a charger, I appreciated the personality UGreen injected into this product.
Other design choices are strong too. The placement of USB ports on top of the robot is practical and it’s a decently compact charger overall given the amount of power it can supply. And although prongs aren’t foldable, you can insert them into something of a sheath – or should I say the robot’s lower half. That’s right: when you remove the charger from the lower half you’re actually taking away his legs and feet. A bit mean really.
So, I actually have very little in the way of complaints. I would argue that the display isn’t super-bright, so at more awkward angles it might be slightly harder to ascertain the robot’s emotion. It could be fun too, if there was a button to manually change emojis, or perhaps even see power usage between the different ports – but these are very nitpicky complaints/suggestions.
Finally, I know this may not be the cheapest charger on the market, but when it comes to value it performs nicely. For instance, the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) has one less port, the same maximum power output, but lacks any kind of display – not to mention it has a considerably higher list price. So overall, you’re getting a stellar product with the UGreen Uno Charger 100W – great performance, versatile charging options, strong value, and a fun, original design. It really doesn’t get much better.
(Image credit: Future)
UGreen Uno Charger 100W review: Price & specs
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the UGreen Uno Charger 100W?
Buy it if…
You want super-fast, multi-port charging The UGreen Uno Charger 100W boasts four charging ports, one of which is USB-A, the rest USB-C. On top of that, it has a very solid maximum power output of 100W, meaning you’ll be easily able to bring multiple devices back to life in no time.
You’d like a splash of personality It’s quite rare that a wall charger exudes any kind of personality and I love the originality from UGreen here. There’s a fun selection of emojis available here, including eating, smiling and blushing and I can’t lie, I got a lot of joy out of watching these play out.
Don't buy it if…
You only need to charge your phone If you only need to revitalize your handset after a long day of scrolling, there’s no need to spend this much money. There are a bunch of high-quality chargers out there for less than half the price of this robotic guy – one of my personal picks would be the excellent Anker Nano USB-C Wall Charger (30W). If you really want emojis though, it may still be worth splashing the cash on the Uno Charger 100W.
You’re on a very tight budget This charger has a list price of $59.99, and even if that’s solid value-wise, it’s still a fair amount to shell out for a charger. There are some decent, cheap multi-port options out there too, for example, the UGreen USB-C 40W.
UGreen Uno Charger 100W review: also consider
Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) In terms of basic functionality, this is very similar to the UGreen Uno Charger 100W. Anker’s alternative only has three ports and costs a bit more too, but it does have excellent build quality with sturdy outer casing. So, if you’re not a fan of the quirky robo-display, this could be a more appropriate choice for you. Read our full Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) review.View Deal
Not even a year since Insta360’s original Flow Pro smartphone stabilizer arrived on the market, and it already has a successor in the shape of the Flow 2 Pro. The new gimbal (perhaps unsurprisingly given the timeframe) doesn’t represent a huge leap forward, however – merely a logical progression in a few key areas.
This is another compact handheld gimbal for keeping an attached smartphone level and its movements smooth, enabling the user to capture more stable and professional-looking video footage while on foot or, with the gimbal perched on a flat surface thanks to its integrated tripod, use their phone like an automated camera operator, moving around while the gimbal uses its software to track and follow their movements, keeping them in the frame.
All the key advantages of the original model either remain untouched or improved upon, thankfully. The lightweight folding design, for instance, makes the Flow 2 Pro one of the most portable smartphone stabilizers around, just like the Flow Pro. And, like the Flow Pro, it features a magnetic clamping system that makes mounting your phone and deploying the gimbal and a refreshingly quick and painless process. The clamp grips securely to the sides of your phone, accommodating devices between 64mm and 84mm wide, and then simply sticks to the gimbal arm via its strong magnet, fixing into place with a satisfying ‘thunk’.
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
I think the design is even better this time around, though, because the Flow 2 Pro’s construction is tougher and more durable than that of its predecessor, even down to the built-in tripod legs being less awkward to pull out and providing a more stable platform for hands-free stabilization.
In its folded state the Flow 2 Pro is impressively small. I was even able to lug it around in my coat pocket, which isn’t something I could say for many of the other best smartphone gimbals. The basic bundle comes with a soft cloth drawstring bag for storage in such situations, but Insta360 also sells an optional hard-sided carry case with snug cut-outs for the gimbal, magnetic clamp and (also optional) fill light. This case, which comes with a removable shoulder strap and netted compartment space inside the lid for storing cables and other small accessories, is the ideal way to store the Flow 2 Pro when not in use, and I’d have liked it included in the basic package – but I suppose keeping it as an optional upgrade does hold the overall cost down for those who want to get in at the lowest price point.
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
As for the smartphone stabilization itself, I have no significant complaints at all – it all works brilliantly, and the Flow 2 Pro feels much more comfortable in my hand than the original Flow Pro. The three-axis gimbal can support handsets up to 300g in weight, stabilizing them using one of three modes: Follow (which follows both the pan and tilt movements of the user but keeps the roll axis fixed); Pan Follow (similar, but keeps both the tilt and roll axes fixed); and FPV (which follows the user’s movement on all three axes).
There’s also an Auto mode, which follows tilt and pan movements and adapts its sensitivity automatically in real-time, plus the option to fix all axes in place at any time by holding down the trigger on the handle. The sixth and final mode is Active Plus, which adds extra sensitivity and responsiveness to the above modes and is engaged by tapping, then holding down the trigger.
You can also manually move the gimbal using the on-handle controls, with the thumb stick supporting tilt and pan motion and, in FPV mode, the jog wheel controlling roll axis movement. Single tapping the trigger turns subject tracking on and off, double tapping resets the phone to a level central position and triple tapping spins the phone through 180º so that it faces the opposite direction to its current facing.
The minimalist circular control setup is similar to the Flow Pro’s, albeit with a few tweaks to aid ergonomics. It’s now slightly more tactile and the four mode lights for Auto, Follow, Pan Follow and FPV are situated at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock on the circle rather than in a row at the top. The green indicator light, which pops on to tell you that tracking is in progress, is retained from the Flow Pro, as is the NFC tap point above it, which can be used for first-time one-tap pairing for both Android and Apple phones.
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
The 21cm extension stick, which expands out from the handle to create extra distance between the user and the phone, is retained from the previous model but a new Free Tilt option expands the Flow 2 Pro’s repertoire of motion. It moves the arm out of the way, which allowed me to capture upwards and downwards tilting shots I wouldn’t otherwise have been able to get.
On the software side of things, the Flow 2 Pro retains its Apple DockKit support, which means it can track subjects in over 200 iPhone camera apps, including the likes of BlackMagic Camera, TikTok and the iPhone’s own native camera app. Obviously this leaves Android users feeling a little short-changed in comparison, as the only way they can track on the Flow 2 Pro is via the Insta360 app.
However, the app is great – and I think delivers by far a smoother, smarter and more responsive tracking experience than any apps that use the DockKit integration. New tracking features added for the Flow 2 Pro include the ability to track groups of people, track while zoomed up to 15x and the Pro Framing Grid, which can modify tracking to keep the subject off-center in the frame for a more pleasing ‘golden ratio’ composition.
The app also includes support for Dolby Vision and Apple ProRes video recording, a new teleprompter option to help content creators stick to the script and support for remote control of the gimbal via a second smartphone or an Apple Watch. I like the idea of a remote control but having to pull out a second smartphone isn’t really ideal – so hopefully Insta360 will take inspiration from the Hohem iSteady M7’s integrated remote control for future stabilizers.
I did get the opportunity to try out a couple of the optional accessories such as the MagSafe mount, which is a much more elegant and slick mounting option than the spring-loaded magnetic grip and the LED fill light, which slots directly onto the gimbal arm’s USB-C output (which can also be used to top up your phone’s battery) and provides either warm, neutral or cool light in one of three intensities. It’s not as flexible as the LED that comes included on the Hohem M7, but it’s powerful enough to enable night-time vlogging, and can face both forwards and backwards.
With up to 10 hours of battery life, the Flow 2 Pro delivers roughly the same amount of use on a full charge as the original model. By the standards of small stabilizers, it’s good – and significantly longer than the 6.5 hours offered by the DJI Osmo 6 Mobile, its closest rival.
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro: Price and Availability
The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro is available to order from its launch day, 16 January 2025, in two bundles and two color finishes: Stone Grey and Summit White.
The Standard Bundle costs $159.99 / £144.99 / AU$239.99, and includes the Flow 2 Pro itself plus a magnetic clamp, USB-A to USB-C charging cable and soft storage back. The Creator Bundle costs $189.99 / £169.99 / AU$289.99, and includes all of the above plus a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, a magnetic phone mount for MagSafe iPhones and the Spotlight, a small fill light that clips directly to the gimbal arm.
This launch price is slightly higher than the launch price of original Flow Pro (which arrived in July 2024); taking into account inflation, however, I’d consider it roughly the same – although I would expect the original Flow Pro to fall in price now that its successor has arrived – the Flow 2 Pro’s most established rival, the DJI Osmo 6 Mobile, has already.
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro: specs
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro: Also Consider
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 We think DJI’s small folding gimbal feels nicer in the hand than the Flow 2 Pro, but in other areas the Insta360 has it beat thanks to longer battery life and, for Apple users at least, that all-important ability to track using third-party camera apps. We’d expect the upcoming Osmo Mobile 7 (or equivalent) to up its game sharply, however.
Hohem iSteady M7 While significantly pricier and bulkier than the Flow 2 Pro, the M7’s impeccable stabilization can balance phones up to 500g in weight. Even better, it comes with app-agnostic tracking via an AI camera module that doubles as a fully customizable fill light, plus a touchscreen module that works as a remote control.
*Our Hohem iSteady M7 review is in progress
Should I buy the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro?
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Buy it if...
You want the best small gimbal for iPhone The Flow 2 Pro’s Apple DockKit support grants it far more utility for iPhone users than its folding, compact competitors, allowing human subject tracking for over 200 iOS camera apps.
You travel light With its folding, lightweight build, which also manages to be reassuringly sturdy, the Flow 2 Pro is the perfect stabilizer with which to document your day trips and weekend breaks. It works as a power bank, selfie stick and tripod too!
Don't buy it if...
You want the best all-round tracking gimbal Larger, pricier stabilizers like the Hohem iSteady M7 and Zhiyun Smooth 5A AI feature AI tracking modules that allow them to track human subjects with any app for both Android and iPhone.
You already own the original Flow Pro The improvements here are notable, but not so valuable that it’s worth ditching your nearly new Flow Pro for the upgrade. If you own the original, our advice would be to wait until the Flow 3 Pro (or equivalent) comes along.
How I tested the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro
One week of use
Tested with iPhone 13 and various iOS apps
Used inside and outdoors both on tripod and in hand
I used the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro in and around my home for a week, using it to record footage both on the move and with it fixed it place via its built-in tripod. I tested it with my Apple iPhone 13 and a variety of camera apps – including the Insta360 app, BlackMagic Camera and the iPhone’s own native camera – to record b-roll and vlog-style videos.
Not even a year since Insta360’s original Flow Pro smartphone stabilizer arrived on the market, and it already has a successor in the shape of the Flow 2 Pro. The new gimbal (perhaps unsurprisingly given the timeframe) doesn’t represent a huge leap forward, however – merely a logical progression in a few key areas.
This is another compact handheld gimbal for keeping an attached smartphone level and its movements smooth, enabling the user to capture more stable and professional-looking video footage while on foot or, with the gimbal perched on a flat surface thanks to its integrated tripod, use their phone like an automated camera operator, moving around while the gimbal uses its software to track and follow their movements, keeping them in the frame.
All the key advantages of the original model either remain untouched or improved upon, thankfully. The lightweight folding design, for instance, makes the Flow 2 Pro one of the most portable smartphone stabilizers around, just like the Flow Pro. And, like the Flow Pro, it features a magnetic clamping system that makes mounting your phone and deploying the gimbal and a refreshingly quick and painless process. The clamp grips securely to the sides of your phone, accommodating devices between 64mm and 84mm wide, and then simply sticks to the gimbal arm via its strong magnet, fixing into place with a satisfying ‘thunk’.
Image 1 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 2 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 3 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 4 of 4
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
I think the design is even better this time around, though, because the Flow 2 Pro’s construction is tougher and more durable than that of its predecessor, even down to the built-in tripod legs being less awkward to pull out and providing a more stable platform for hands-free stabilization.
In its folded state the Flow 2 Pro is impressively small. I was even able to lug it around in my coat pocket, which isn’t something I could say for many of the other best smartphone gimbals. The basic bundle comes with a soft cloth drawstring bag for storage in such situations, but Insta360 also sells an optional hard-sided carry case with snug cut-outs for the gimbal, magnetic clamp and (also optional) fill light. This case, which comes with a removable shoulder strap and netted compartment space inside the lid for storing cables and other small accessories, is the ideal way to store the Flow 2 Pro when not in use, and I’d have liked it included in the basic package – but I suppose keeping it as an optional upgrade does hold the overall cost down for those who want to get in at the lowest price point.
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 3 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
As for the smartphone stabilization itself, I have no significant complaints at all – it all works brilliantly, and the Flow 2 Pro feels much more comfortable in my hand than the original Flow Pro. The three-axis gimbal can support handsets up to 300g in weight, stabilizing them using one of three modes: Follow (which follows both the pan and tilt movements of the user but keeps the roll axis fixed); Pan Follow (similar, but keeps both the tilt and roll axes fixed); and FPV (which follows the user’s movement on all three axes).
There’s also an Auto mode, which follows tilt and pan movements and adapts its sensitivity automatically in real-time, plus the option to fix all axes in place at any time by holding down the trigger on the handle. The sixth and final mode is Active Plus, which adds extra sensitivity and responsiveness to the above modes and is engaged by tapping, then holding down the trigger.
You can also manually move the gimbal using the on-handle controls, with the thumb stick supporting tilt and pan motion and, in FPV mode, the jog wheel controlling roll axis movement. Single tapping the trigger turns subject tracking on and off, double tapping resets the phone to a level central position and triple tapping spins the phone through 180º so that it faces the opposite direction to its current facing.
The minimalist circular control setup is similar to the Flow Pro’s, albeit with a few tweaks to aid ergonomics. It’s now slightly more tactile and the four mode lights for Auto, Follow, Pan Follow and FPV are situated at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock on the circle rather than in a row at the top. The green indicator light, which pops on to tell you that tracking is in progress, is retained from the Flow Pro, as is the NFC tap point above it, which can be used for first-time one-tap pairing for both Android and Apple phones.
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 2 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Image 3 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
The 21cm extension stick, which expands out from the handle to create extra distance between the user and the phone, is retained from the previous model but a new Free Tilt option expands the Flow 2 Pro’s repertoire of motion. It moves the arm out of the way, which allowed me to capture upwards and downwards tilting shots I wouldn’t otherwise have been able to get.
On the software side of things, the Flow 2 Pro retains its Apple DockKit support, which means it can track subjects in over 200 iPhone camera apps, including the likes of BlackMagic Camera, TikTok and the iPhone’s own native camera app. Obviously this leaves Android users feeling a little short-changed in comparison, as the only way they can track on the Flow 2 Pro is via the Insta360 app.
However, the app is great – and I think delivers by far a smoother, smarter and more responsive tracking experience than any apps that use the DockKit integration. New tracking features added for the Flow 2 Pro include the ability to track groups of people, track while zoomed up to 15x and the Pro Framing Grid, which can modify tracking to keep the subject off-center in the frame for a more pleasing ‘golden ratio’ composition.
The app also includes support for Dolby Vision and Apple ProRes video recording, a new teleprompter option to help content creators stick to the script and support for remote control of the gimbal via a second smartphone or an Apple Watch. I like the idea of a remote control but having to pull out a second smartphone isn’t really ideal – so hopefully Insta360 will take inspiration from the Hohem iSteady M7’s integrated remote control for future stabilizers.
I did get the opportunity to try out a couple of the optional accessories such as the MagSafe mount, which is a much more elegant and slick mounting option than the spring-loaded magnetic grip and the LED fill light, which slots directly onto the gimbal arm’s USB-C output (which can also be used to top up your phone’s battery) and provides either warm, neutral or cool light in one of three intensities. It’s not as flexible as the LED that comes included on the Hohem M7, but it’s powerful enough to enable night-time vlogging, and can face both forwards and backwards.
With up to 10 hours of battery life, the Flow 2 Pro delivers roughly the same amount of use on a full charge as the original model. By the standards of small stabilizers, it’s good – and significantly longer than the 6.5 hours offered by the DJI Osmo 6 Mobile, its closest rival.
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro: Price and Availability
The Insta360 Flow 2 Pro is available to order from its launch day, 16 January 2025, in two bundles and two color finishes: Stone Grey and Summit White.
The Standard Bundle costs $159.99 / £144.99 / AU$239.99, and includes the Flow 2 Pro itself plus a magnetic clamp, USB-A to USB-C charging cable and soft storage back. The Creator Bundle costs $189.99 / £169.99 / AU$289.99, and includes all of the above plus a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, a magnetic phone mount for MagSafe iPhones and the Spotlight, a small fill light that clips directly to the gimbal arm.
This launch price is slightly higher than the launch price of original Flow Pro (which arrived in July 2024); taking into account inflation, however, I’d consider it roughly the same – although I would expect the original Flow Pro to fall in price now that its successor has arrived – the Flow 2 Pro’s most established rival, the DJI Osmo 6 Mobile, has already.
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro: specs
Insta360 Flow 2 Pro: Also Consider
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 We think DJI’s small folding gimbal feels nicer in the hand than the Flow 2 Pro, but in other areas the Insta360 has it beat thanks to longer battery life and, for Apple users at least, that all-important ability to track using third-party camera apps. We’d expect the upcoming Osmo Mobile 7 (or equivalent) to up its game sharply, however.
Hohem iSteady M7 While significantly pricier and bulkier than the Flow 2 Pro, the M7’s impeccable stabilization can balance phones up to 500g in weight. Even better, it comes with app-agnostic tracking via an AI camera module that doubles as a fully customizable fill light, plus a touchscreen module that works as a remote control.
*Our Hohem iSteady M7 review is in progress
Should I buy the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro?
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Buy it if...
You want the best small gimbal for iPhone The Flow 2 Pro’s Apple DockKit support grants it far more utility for iPhone users than its folding, compact competitors, allowing human subject tracking for over 200 iOS camera apps.
You travel light With its folding, lightweight build, which also manages to be reassuringly sturdy, the Flow 2 Pro is the perfect stabilizer with which to document your day trips and weekend breaks. It works as a power bank, selfie stick and tripod too!
Don't buy it if...
You want the best all-round tracking gimbal Larger, pricier stabilizers like the Hohem iSteady M7 and Zhiyun Smooth 5A AI feature AI tracking modules that allow them to track human subjects with any app for both Android and iPhone.
You already own the original Flow Pro The improvements here are notable, but not so valuable that it’s worth ditching your nearly new Flow Pro for the upgrade. If you own the original, our advice would be to wait until the Flow 3 Pro (or equivalent) comes along.
How I tested the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro
One week of use
Tested with iPhone 13 and various iOS apps
Used inside and outdoors both on tripod and in hand
I used the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro in and around my home for a week, using it to record footage both on the move and with it fixed it place via its built-in tripod. I tested it with my Apple iPhone 13 and a variety of camera apps – including the Insta360 app, BlackMagic Camera and the iPhone’s own native camera – to record b-roll and vlog-style videos.
UGreen Nexode Pro 65W Ultra-Slim 3-Port charger review
The UGreen Nexode Pro 65W Ultra-Slim 3-Port charger is a pretty unique-looking wall plug. This super thin charger skips out on the cube-like structure favored by most of its competitors, making it ideal for use in tight spaces. Imagine you have a desk pressed close to your wall or bed for instance – this is the perfect, stealthy charger you need to juice up your devices, even if you’re short on space.
Of course, the UGreen Nexode Pro 65W Ultra-Slim 3-Port charger (quite the mouthful) has a maximum power output of… well 65W. And that will be enough for a lot of users, with USB-C Port 1 able to charge up to 65W when charging a single device or 45W with two or three plugged in at once.
When I tested charging performance, I wasn’t surprised to find that this thing got the job done, no questions asked. I charged the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE alongside the LG Tone Free T90S earbuds and FiiO M11S hi-res music player and the Samsung phone was brought back to full health from 0% in around 80 minutes – as fast as I’d expect from some of the best iPhone chargers and the best Android phone chargers.
Of course, if you want to charge three more power hungry devices, such as modern Chromebooks or Macbooks, simultaneously, this may be a little underpowered – especially as USB-C Port 2 only offers up to 20W of power in Two-Port Charging mode – but if you don’t need perfectly optimized power output, that won’t be too much of an issue.
I did find a couple of slight issues when charging, however. Firstly, this thing wasn’t the most secure when plugged in. After slotting in the UK plug adapter, I moved my USB-C cable around a bit and found the charger’s body shook a bit. This wasn’t really a big issue, but I’d prefer a more secure fit. On top of that, the model got fairly warm after 30 minutes of charging in Single Port charging mode. Again – that’s not the end of the world – and this is still a safe-to-use charger, but if you want top-tier performance with zero hiccups, you may not quite get what you want from this UGreen charger.
Having said that, this model still performs well in bringing your devices back to life. But that’s not where the good stuff ends. This plug is very nicely designed and you can really reap the benefits of its almost flat design. At just 0.6 inches (16mm) thick, it’s ideal for when you’re on-the-go and in a tight space. On top of that, this charger comes with interchangeable plugs for US, UK and EU ports – it doesn’t get much more travel-friendly than that. The only potential issue of this charger’s build is that it’s still fairly long – so if your sockets are close to a surface or the ground, it may not be the best fit – especially as the USB ports are on the bottom of the charger. But for most environments, it will slot in perfectly.
It also comes in an attractive silver color, as do the rest of the plugs in UGreen’s Pro line. One positive difference, though, is that the attached adapter looks a bit more discreet than it does on other models. Like its siblings, this model also uses GaN technology to ensure a compact, energy efficient build. The use of GaN, inclusion of three ports and fairly high power output mean you’ll have to pay a fair amount for this charger, of course. It has a list price of $55.99 / £45.99 (about AU$90), though I’ve already seen it available for less than $40 / £40 – that’s great value. Overall, there’s a lot to love about this ultra-slim charger and it’s my pick of the entire UGreen Nexode Pro line.
Should I buy the UGreen Nexode Pro 65W Ultra-Slim 3-Port charger?
Buy it if…
You want a travel charger If you’re looking for a wall charger to take on your travels, this is a fantastic option. You get interchangeable plugs for US, UK and EU use all in the box, which is a huge plus. On top of that, it’s super compact, making it ideal for taking around in a small bag, or even your pocket.
You want to charge multiple devices simultaneously If you need to get multiple devices back to life, you can with this tri-port charger, which has two USB-C and one USB-A ports. You can get up to 45W from USB-C Port 1, even with Port 2 and the USB-A slot in use too, so you’ll have enough power for most modern handsets, for instance.
Don't buy it if…
You’re looking for a powerhouse of a charger With a maximum power output of 65W, this charger will likely have enough to charge one power-hungry device. But if you want to charge two or three more demanding devices at once, this might not be the best option for you. The Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger is an excellent alternative if you need a bit more power.
Your socket is close to the floor or a surface If your power socket is a little close to the ground or a separated surface, you may find that this charger is a tad long. It’s ideal if you’re in a space where the charger is close to a bed or sofa, however.
UGreen Nexode Pro 65W Ultra-Slim 3-Port charger: Also consider
UGreen Nexode Pro 65W 3-Port charger This charger is massively similar to the Ultra-Slim alternative from UGreen. It has the same maximum power output, list price and port configuration. The key difference here is form – this is a thicker, yet more cube-shaped charger, so it will be suited to different kinds of spaces to the Ultra-Slim variant. The ports face towards you, rather than being located under the charger too, which some may find preferable. Read our full UGreen Nexode Pro 65W 3-Port charger review.
If you need high-speed, multi-device charging, the UGreen Nexode Pro 100W 3-Port Charger is sure to get the job done. This is a tri-port charger – with two using USB-C and the other USB-A. It boasts a very solid maximum total power output of 100W, so is up-to-the task if you have a modern laptop or handset with significant power demand.
In fact, 100W will likely give you enough juice to fast-charge your phone, even with all three slots in use. That’s because USB-C Port 1 has a solid maximum output of 65W when triple charging, while the other two are able to provide up to 15W each. You can also use Port 1 on its own to get up to 100W of power, ideal if you have a highly demanding device, like the Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch.
And luckily, the UGreen Nexode Pro 100W offered strong charging performance when I put it to the test. I plugged the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE into USB-C Port 1, the Soundcore Space One Pro into USB-C Port 2 and the Motorola Moto G55 5G into the USB-A slot. While all three of these were charging, the Samsung phone was still able to go from 0%-100% in the expected timeframe of approximately 80 minutes – exactly what you’d hope to get from some of the best iPhone chargers and best Android phone chargers.
In addition, this is a fairly compact plug – it doesn’t stick out too far out of the socket, like the default Macbook chargers, for instance, making it a strong option if you’re in a tight space. That’s partially because this model harnesses GaN technology, which delivers superior energy efficiency within a more compact body compared to typical silicon chargers. Like the 65W variant, though, this plug’s prongs aren’t foldable. That’s an issue if you want to carry it in your pocket, as you may well find the prongs poke into your body – surely no one wants that. And I’d also argue that this isn’t the most beautiful charger on the market. The charger’s body is made up of a neat looking silver cuboid, but the adapter at the front is attached in a slightly clunky looking way. That’s because there are visible lines where it’s connected to the charger’s body, making for a slightly rigid design.
Despite that, this is still a good-quality, speedy charger that makes for a decent multi–charging option. Its list price of $74.99 / £59.99 (about AU$120) is by no means cheap – especially if you consider that the UGreen Uno Charger 100W is typically $59.99 / £55.99 (about AU$80) and has an additional port as well as a display. But overall, this is a competent charger with strong build quality and you’ll almost certainly be satisfied performance-wise.
(Image credit: Future)
UGreen Nexode Pro 100W 3-Port Charger review: Price & specs
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the UGreen Nexode Pro 100W 3-Port Charger?
Buy it if…
You need a multi-device charger This charger has three ports, two of which are USB-C and one is USB-A. That means you can use various cable types and get three devices back up to speed in no time. Even if you only want to focus on one device, you can get 100W charging via USB-C Port 1, so if speed is what you need, this is a strong option.
You want a step-up power-wise A lot of phone chargers won’t be able to rival this plug’s maximum power output of 100W. If you want to charge a more power-hungry device, that means the UGreen Nexode Pro 100W is more than up to the task.
Don't buy it if…
You’re looking for a cheap option If top-tier value is what you’re after, this probably shouldn’t be your first port of call. There are cheaper triple port chargers out there and even UGreen’s own Uno Charger 100W boasts the same amount of power but with an extra port and a smaller price tag.
You want ultimate portability This thing is decently compact for a 100W charger, sure. But something that’s slightly frustrating is the exclusion of foldable prongs. A lot of competitors offer foldability, which is better if you want to pocket a charger without the fear of being poked into by pesky prongs.
UGreen Nexode Pro 100W 3-Port Charger: Also consider
Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) Well well well…if it isn’t UGreen’s arch-nemesis, Anker. Just kidding, I’m sure they’re friends really. Probably. Anyway, the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger is a high-calibre charger that also dons three ports. It has the same double USB-C and single USB-A configuration and maximum power output, but here’s the difference – this thing has foldable prongs. This one also uses GaN, intelligent temperature monitoring and has an excellent build quality so there’s a lot to love. Unfortunately, it’s a tad more expensive than this UGreen charger, so it may be worth picking it up in a sale. Read our full Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports) review.
The ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger is available at a list price of $24.99 / £22.49 / AU$37.49 on the official ESR website, but at the time of writing it has a lower list price at Amazon, so it's worth checking in there in case there's a saving to be made.
This ESR charger is a similar price to the Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad, which was more comfortable to hold when attached to the back of my phone but lacked the reinforced cable that the ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger possesses.
Due to its light weight, the ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger naturally moves about on surfaces if knocked or the cable is pulled. However, its flat base provides a bit more stability than the curved base of the Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad. The downside of this flatter design with sharper edges, in contrast to the Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad, is that it isn't as comfortable to hold as the curved shape of the Anker charger. Despite this, it was still easy to handle, even with my smaller-than-average hands, and makes a nice alternative to a bulky power bank.
However, the ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger has the advantage over many of the best wireless chargers when it comes to cable integrity. It features a reassuring length of reinforcing cable cover where it meets the charging pad and braided nylon around the wiring. I'm not really a fan of integrated cables: I prefer one that I can remove to make a charger easier to pack away, but at least the robust-looking cable gives me some confidence that it isn't going to get easily damaged in my overnight bag. The magnet strength was also reassuring, passing the dangle test with ease when I hung the pad by the wire with an iPhone 13 Pro attached.
It took the ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger two hours and eight minutes to fully charge an iPhone 13 Pro, which is near enough the same amount of time it took for the Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad to do the same.
In summary, this isn't the charging pad I'd choose if my priority was comfort as I continue to use my phone. However, if I planned to take it between locations regularly, the ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger would be my top choice due to the reinforced cable design. The charging time was good for the price, and a teeny bit quicker than the comparable Anker charging pad, so aside from the not-so-comfortable design, the ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger would definitely be my pick of the two.
If you're not certain that a wireless charging pad is the best format for your needs, we have a range of other options to check out in our guides of the best wireless chargers and best iPhone chargers.
(Image credit: Future)
ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger review: Price & specs
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger?
Buy it if…
You want to save space One positive of wireless charging pads over a charging station is that it won't take up room on your desk or nightstand, and can easily be picked up and placed whenever you need to use your phone.
You need reinforcement One downside to integrated power cables is that they can take a battering when placed in bags or drawers, causing the cable to deteriorate over time. But with the robust sleeve and braided cable on this ESR charger, it's likely to deal with a lot more stress than an unreinforced alternative.
Don't buy it if…
You don't want cables to get in the way If this isn't going to be your main charger and you're just looking for something easy to hold so you can use your phone as it's charging, a wireless power bank may prove a more convenient option.
You want your phone to stay put This charging pad doesn't possess the weight or anti-slip elements it needs to hold its own on a busy desk. If you want your phone to stay in one place then a wireless charging stand might be a better choice.
ESR Qi2 Mini Wireless Charger review: Also consider
Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Pad If you regularly use your phone while it's charging, then you might be interested in this more ergonomic charging pad. The design isn't quite as robust as the ESR charger, but I could forgive this as it was really comfortable to hold, even in my smaller-than-average hands.
ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) review
The ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) costs a reasonable $39.99 / £35.99 / AU$59.99 and is available direct from ESR, or at Amazon. This is cheaper than many alternatives I've tested, which may give it an edge over other models.
As per many other in-car chargers, the ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) is available in black on the ESR website, but at Amazon (US only) it also comes in grey and titanium colors, curiously. The front face of the charger is 3.1 x 3.1 inches / 80 x 80mm, which felt a little oversized considering I've tested slimmer alternatives that held just as well. Even so, it's not visible past the edges of an iPhone 12 Pro, or an iPhone 13 Pro; it's perhaps just personal preference that I'd rather have something smaller that isn't so obvious when a phone isn't in situ. I wasn't a fan of the shiny circular MagSafe charging area either; I didn't like that it could reflect light, plus it gathers dust.
(Image credit: Future)
The ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) comes with two attachment options. It has a sticky pad to apply it to the dashboard, and a separate clip-on attachment so it can be fixed onto the air vents. I found this to work well; the clip is stiff to open but I managed to open it enough to slide it on. It has a handy little stability arm that folds down, stopping it from bouncing about while I drive, which even some of the best iPhone chargers for in-car usage don't offer. The charger comes with a USB-C cable, which I powered through an adapter in my car's cigarette lighter.
As was the case with the Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 I tested, the hanging cable proved a bit obtrusive as it comes from the bottom of the charging pad, meaning it hung in front of the dash controls and proved an occasional irritation as I shifted gear. As I already had the Pitaka in place, I simply hoiked the ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) over that to get it out of the way, but in the long term, I would look to use some stick-on cable tidy clips.
Something I noticed – which I also encountered with the similarly designed ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Watch Wireless Charging Set – is that the phone gets warm while it charges. This may explain why ESR has released another of these charging sets with CryoBoost, for an additional cost.
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Speaking of warm things: my commute to work is a bit of a trial by fire for the in-car accessories I review, with an obstacle course of potholes and some aggressive speed bumps to contend with. The ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) proved a worthy adversary to these challengers, however, keeping a tight hold on my phone and holding its position valiantly.
The ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) charged an iPhone 13 Pro from 0% to 40% in half an hour, meaning that in that time frame it charged the phone an extra 10% compared to the Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2.
Overall, despite the dustiness and the fact it warms the phone while charging, this is a fast-charging and reliable in-car charger. If you're looking for recommendations on other variants of MagSafe chargers to use at home or on the go, why not check out our pick of the best wireless chargers.
ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) review: Price & specs
Should I buy the ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock)?
Buy it if…
You want a reliable holder Even through turbulent commutes, this ESR wireless charger kept a tight grip on my iPhone – and it didn't have an easy ride. Miles more efficient than a standard phone cradle, it stays where you want it as it charges your phone.
You want versatility The two included attachment mounts give peace of mind when ordering, as you have another option if one mount doesn't provide the ideal placement for your phone. The air vent clip was my personal favorite, but it's great to have the option to stick it on too.
Don't buy it if…
You don't want a dust magnet This is only a minor negative, which may not bother some, but I didn't like how much dust the protruding circular charging area collected, and its reflective surface proved to be a bit of a dust magnet too.
You don't want to get cable-tied This will vary depending on the position of the charger and your car, but I found the cable proved obtrusive at times, getting in the way of the radio controls and occasionally proving irritating when shifting gears.
ESR Qi2 Magnetic Wireless Car Charger (Halolock) review: Also consider
Pitaka MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 If you'd prefer a slimmer and more subtle profile, and you're willing to spend a little more, then I highly recommend this Pitaka hook-on car charger. Attached to your air vents, it offers a strong hold and easy repositioning on the move. Check out the full Pikata MagEZ Car Mount Pro 2 Qi2 review to learn more.View Deal
Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station review
The Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station is a budget-priced iPhone and AirPods charger, with a list price of $39.99 / £29.99 / AU$59.99 at Amazon. This is the cheapest MagSafe charging stand I've tested to date, albeit the majority of these wireless chargers have charged three devices rather than two. It's certainly nice to have a 2-in-1 option available though, if you're yet to be tempted by an Apple Watch.
In terms of design, the Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station is simple but has some attractive little details. Aside from the charging pad and the top of the base, it has a slightly metallic charcoal grey finish, with dark mirrored sections at either end of the pencil-thin post. The only thing that lets it down aesthetically is the cheaper-looking black plastic finish of the top face of the base.
I was pleased that the circular charging pad sits on a robust-feeling hinge, so I could change the viewing angle easily. Some chargers lack this ability, such as the ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Watch Wireless Charging Set (HaloLock), despite it being around double the price – though this extra expense is reasonable enough considering the much faster charging speeds and added Apple Watch charger.
The charger proved suitably heavy and sturdy despite the compact circular base and skinny charging post. The charging pad has a soft matte finish that collects dust, but other than that it looks and feels nice. The base of the charger has a USB-C input for the included USB-C cable, and there's an inset AirPods charging area towards the front. There's also a small indicator light to indicate the charger has been powered on, and to act as a status light for AirPods or other compatible wireless earbud case charging.
The Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station can charge iPhones 12 to 16, and AirPods 2 to 4. Unfortunately, it has been one of the slowest MagSafe chargers I've tested to date, taking three hours to fully charge an iPhone 13 Pro, making it over an hour slower than the average charging speed of the many wireless chargers I've tested. That being said, it's the cheapest charging stand I've reviewed so far, and by some margin, so if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, perhaps slow charging can be forgiven.
Overall, the Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station is an option worth considering if you're keen to get your hands on a MagSafe charging stand without breaking the bank, or if you don't need an Apple Watch charger. If the Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station isn't quite ticking your boxes, we've got a bunch of other recommendations over in our best wireless charger guide, and it's worth checking out our pick of the best iPhone chargers too.
(Image credit: Future)
Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station review: price & specs
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Should I buy the Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station?
Buy it if...
You want a compact charging station Some charging stations like to make a statement, and take up room while doing it, but this Ugreen 2-in-1 charger has a satisfyingly small footprint while remaining reassuringly stable.
You only want to pay for what you need There are a bunch of 3-in-1 MagSafe chargers out there, so it pays to have a cost-effective charging option designed to juice up just the devices you own.
Don't buy it if...
You don't like to be kept waiting There's no denying it, this is far from the fastest MagSafe charger out there. It was left straggling behind the other wireless chargers I tested, taking a leisurely three hours to fully charge an iPhone 13 Pro.
You want a high-end finish The design of this charger is by no means cheap and nasty, but the budget-looking black plastic finish at the top of the base plus the dust-collecting and slightly poor-fitting charging pad surface doesn't exactly scream premium quality.
Ugreen MagFlow 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Station review: also consider
Mous MagSafe Compatible 3 In 1 Portable Charger If cheap and compact are a priority in your quest for a new wireless charger, then this Mous charger might just be of interest. For a bit more investment you can get this charger that has the benefit of Apple Watch charging capability, plus it folds down to a satisfyingly small size, so it's effortlessly easy to carry with you on the go. You can check out the full Mous MagSafe Compatible 3 In 1 Portable Charger review here.
Headline 2: Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand review: a speedy and stable 3-in-1 MagSafe charger
Headline 3: Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand review: a speedy and steadfast 3-in-1 MagSafe charger that's perfect for the chronically clumsy
Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand review
The Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand has a list price of $99.99 / $89.99 / AU$199.95, making it considerably cheaper than the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe, which takes over half an hour longer to charge an iPhone 13 Pro. It's available to purchase from the official Anker site in the US, UK, and Australia and is also available at Amazon, but only in the US and UK at the time of writing.
I was very impressed when the Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand charged up an iPhone 13 Pro in just 1 hour and 38 minutes thanks to Anker's signature wireless fast charging, Wireless PowerIQ. This makes it the fastest MagSafe charger I've tested, and I've tested a lot of them! It also proved the fastest at charging my Series 9 Apple Watch, taking just 1 hour and 4 minutes to juice it from 0% to 100%, making it a worthy contender to win a spot in our pick of the best iPhone chargers. It also had no problem charging AirPods Pro 2, and Motorola Moto Buds+ cases.
(Image credit: Future)
Although I like the black version I tested, in all honesty I prefer the look of the Shell White Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand. Still, it made an attractive addition to my desktop as I like its minimalist yet interesting aesthetic. However, quite quickly the circular base was starting to show dust, which made it somewhat less attractive. This may not be a bother for some but I wouldn't want to have to wipe down my charger regularly, and the silicone-type material of the earbuds charger seemed to become rather attached to the aforementioned dust, and wasn't keen on letting go.
It isn't exactly the most compact 3-in-1 charger you could buy though, with a base size of 5.5 x 5.5 inches / 140 x 140mm, so you'd need the space for it. The charger is available in Shell White and black on the official Anker site for the US and Australia, but it would appear it's only available in black for the UK, however, you can buy it in Shell White at Amazon UK.
(Image credit: Future)
Due to its wide base, I had no concerns about accidentally knocking this 3-in-1 stand over, and, even after some provoking, my phone just swiveled on the charger rather than falling off, which scored this charger some brownie points as I'm chronically clumsy. All three devices are easily accessed, unlike some other 3-in-1 chargers, such as the ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Travel Wireless Charging Set, which hides the watch and earbuds chargers behind the MagSafe phone mount. One little niggle I had with it was the firmness of the hold when I tried to use my phone as it charged. It swivels more than other MagSafe chargers I've tried out, not to a ridiculous extent, but at times it proved a little irritating. It does, however, make it super easy to change the phone's orientation from portrait to landscape, so it's not all bad.
In a nutshell, though, the Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand had a surprisingly fast charging time and was strong and sturdy enough to withstand my sometimes chaotic desk environment. While the price is higher than alternatives such as the ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Watch Wireless Charging Set, it has a more attractive aesthetic, provides easier access to all three devices, and charges a bit quicker too. If you want to look at other wireless charging options before making a decision, I recommend checking out our selection of the best wireless chargers to see what else is out there.
Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand review: Price & specs
Should I buy the Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand?
Buy it if…
You want something a bit fancier If you're tired of boring black desktop charging sets, then this Anker 3-in-1 charger might be what you've been searching for. With a large circular base and its shiny silver post and charging arms, it makes for something a little different, without being too "out there".
You want a quick charger I was thoroughly pleased with the charging speeds delivered during testing. This is the fastest MagSafe charger I've tested so far, and trust me, I've tested a lot of them. If you want to juice up your iPhone or Apple Watch in under two hours then this is the charger for you, just make sure you're using the included plug for the best result.
Don't buy it if…
You want something compact As sturdy and efficient as this charger is, it may prove too much of a space invader for people who don't have much room to spare on their desk or nightstand. If this sounds familiar, I have a space-saving recommendation in the Also Consider section below.
Dust gets you down I can't comment on how noticeable it would be on the Shell White variant, but in the first few minutes of having the charger on my desk, I started spotting pesky specs of dust on the black circular base.
Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station 3-in-1 Stand review: Also consider
ESR Qi2 3-in-1 Watch Wireless Charging Set A more compact solution to your desktop charging needs, this ESR charger features an earbud charger in the square base, a MagSafe charger on a post, and a clip-on watch charger behind. It's still a bit of a dust magnet, especially the shiny surface of the charging pad, but considering it only took fourteen minutes longer to charge an iPhone 13 Pro than the Anker charger, plus it's a fair bit cheaper, I think I can forgive that.View Deal
Smartphone stabilizers, which use a self-levelling gimbal to keep a mounted phone movement’s smooth, steady and shake-free while it captures video, have become an essential part of many content creators’ toolkits. As a result, there are now dozens of options for anyone who wants to transform their smartphone into a cut-price Steadicam – and Zhiyun has as much experience in this sector as any of its rival manufacturers.
The Smooth 5S AI is Zhiyun’s current flagship mobile stabilizer, putting it in direct competition with models like the Insta360 Flow Pro and DJI Osmo Mobile 6. As its name suggests, it’s an upgraded version of the Smooth 5, sporting a very similar design but incorporating a few improvements – most notably an AI-powered tracking module that I think represents its most appealing selling point.
I’ll get into why shortly, but in terms of general design I found the Smooth 5S AI to be pretty impressive. Constructed of lightweight but sturdy black plastic, it sports a professional look that suggests it’s built for serious creative work. The handle is textured to aid grip and I was pleased by the way the control layout puts a remarkable number of buttons and dials within easy, comfortable reach when it was in my hand. While a tripod attachment allows the gimbal to stand on a flat surface, there’s no extension rod to increase its length (something you get with many rival stabilizers), which makes it less useful for self-shooting vlog recording.
When not in use, the Smooth 5S AI’s gimbal arm can be locked in place. Part of me wishes it folded down as well as the Insta360 Flow Pro and DJI OM 6 (which are both verging on pocket-size when not in use) but Zhiyun would doubtless argue that the Smooth 5S AI’s larger, more complex gimbal offers a greater range of movement and stability than these competitors’ equivalents (NB: Zhiyun also offers a smaller folding stabilizer, the Cinepeer CQ5, for those that require something more portable than the Smooth 5S AI).
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To use the stabilizer, your phone is placed within the ‘jaws’ of a gripping mechanism; the hold is secure, but mounting and dismounting is much quicker and easier with the magnetic clamp method used by the DJI and Insta360 stabilizers. The Smooth 5S AI’s clamp can hold phones up to 10mm thick and 300g in weight and can be manually rotated 90º to switch between capturing portrait and landscape content. Some balancing is required on the gimbal’s roll axis arm once your phone is in place, to improve stabilization performance, but it takes only a few seconds.
When the gimbal is powered on, it’ll automatically self-balance, holding the phone level with the horizon; it’ll also connect to the phone via Bluetooth, provided it’s already been paired before. If you feel the levelling is slightly off, you can manually adjust it using the ZY Cami companion app (more on this later) or ask the app to recalibrate things automatically. I found that I did need to manually adjust to get it satisfactorily level, but once set up properly I didn’t need to touch it again.
Stabilization works very well – to a point. The 3-axis gimbal succeeded in keeping my iPhone 13 level and followed my movements smoothly, but if I tilted the handle more than around 40 degrees in either direction the gimbal would abruptly give up, and the phone would tilt too. This isn’t too much of an issue as long as you’re aware of it, but I was expecting a little more robustness in the stabilization.
There are several stabilization modes to choose from. I generally found Pan Follow, which follows your movements while preventing the phone from tilting up and down, to be the most useful for standard vlog or b-roll content, but other users might enjoy the more dramatic movements offered by the Point Of View or Vortex modes.
Gimbal movement can also be adjust manually using the on-board thumbstick control, while tapping the trigger on the front of the handle twice resets it to its standard position; tapping it three times flips the phone around to face the opposite direction. Other controls of note include an on/off button for the useful front-facing LED fill light and a chunky wheel which can be used to adjust camera zoom and gimbal tilt.
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The app-agnostic tracking is what really sets the Smooth 5S AI aside from its competitors. Thanks to a small magnetic ‘AI’ module with a built-in camera, which sits on the clamp and can be faced either towards or away from the user, the gimbal is able to track human faces when using any app. Some rival models, like the DJI OM 6, will only track people when using their own companion app, while the Insta360 Flow Pro’s DockKit-enabled tracking means it can track while using the native iPhone camera app (and many third-party apps), but the Smooth 5S AI’s tracking is hardware-based, which means it’ll work with any phone or camera app around.
That’s great for anyone who’d rather use third-party apps, of course, but I’d caution that the tracking is noticeably smoother and more responsive when using the ZY Cami app than it is when using with the AI module. With the latter, the gimbal movements are jerkier and more delayed, which does take the shine off the AI module somewhat (interestingly, the same is true of the Insta360 Flow Pro’s DockKit tracking versus its companion app tracking).
The AI module supports gesture controls: make the ‘OK’ sign to start tracking (a green light indicates that it’s locked onto you), hold up your palm to stop tracking and use the ‘victory’ sign to start and stop recording. These all worked well, in my experience.
The ZY Cami app can be used for capturing video and photos, offering several special shooting modes like panorama, dolly zoom and slow motion. It also allows you to adjust image quality, add beauty filters, adjust gimbal settings, share content via social media and more. I found it to be a decent enough camera app, and using it isn’t a huge disadvantage over, say, the iPhone’s built-in camera app.
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Finally, a quick word about battery life. It’s impressive, with Zhiyun claiming seven hours of use with the AI tracker and fill light on – and my real-world testing suggests that figure is accurate. You can also use the Smooth 5S AI as a power bank, using a second USB-C port on the gimbal arm to top up your phone’s battery while it’s mounted.
While I find the simpler and more compact likes of the Insta360 Flow Pro and DJI Osmo Mobile 6 more appealing on the usability and portability fronts, the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI is undoubtedly an impressive alternative with solid stabilization and, via its AI tracking module, better built-in subject tracking than either of its rivals.
Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI: price and availability
The Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI costs $249 / £169 / AU$309 and is available now. Do look out for cut prices, as we do see this gimbal on sale from time to time. You can see the live prices in the links above.
Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI: specs
Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI: Also consider
Insta360 Flow Pro Insta360’s compact foldable gimbal feels like the pick of the current mobile stabilizer bunch. With excellent battery life, a handy power bank function and the ability to subject track when using third-party iPhone apps (or the native iPhone camera), it’s an impressive all-rounder – and cheaper than the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI.
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 While only able to track subjects when using its Mimo companion app, the OM 6 offers a more ergonomically pleasing and slicker user experience than both the Smooth 5S AI and the Insta360 Flow Pro; it just feels better in the hand and smoother with its movements. Its 6.5-hour battery life isn’t quite as long as either, however.
You need a stabilizer that’ll track with any app Some stabilizers only track with certain camera apps. Not this one: its AI module allows it to keep you centred in the frame no matter what app you’re using to film yourself.
You need a fill light built-in The integrated LED light makes filming in dark conditions possible without the need to add additional light modules (although these are sold separately if you want things even brighter).
Don't buy it if...
You need an ultra-portable stabilizer While it does lock up for storage, the Smooth 5S AI doesn’t fold over to an almost pocketable size. You’ll need a fairly large amount of bag space to transport it.
You’re a vlogger who wants to walk and film With no extension rod inside the handle, it’s harder to film yourself while walking and holding the Smooth 5S AI than with some other mobile stabilizers. Vloggers beware.
How I tested the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI
One week of use
Tested with iPhone 13
Used for B-roll and vlogs
I used the Zhiyun Smooth 5S AI in and around my home for a week, using it to record footage both on the move and with it sat on a desktop using its tripod. I tested it with my Apple iPhone 13 and a variety of camera apps including Zhiyun’s own ZY Cami and the native iPhone camera app, and used the phone’s front and rear cameras to record b-roll and vlog-style videos.
