Photographers and filmmakers put a lot of work into capturing the best shots for their visual portfolios. It takes a lot of trial and error to do so, especially if they can’t get the perfect frame after a few hours on-field. What’s more, these professionals will need the best aspect ratio or precise focus on their subjects. In such cases, they’ll need more than just their DSLR’s screen to get great shots. Fortunately, many brands now offer multiple options an external camera screen or on-camera monitors.
These devices come with numerous features that benefit pro photographers and filmmakers alike, including a fuller view and a more precise focus on subjects. So whether you’re working on a big-budget film, adding a field monitor to your music video production gear, or looking for a bigger camera display, we’ve listed down some of the best on-camera monitors for you.
What is an external camera screen or on-camera monitor?
An external camera screen or on-camera monitor takes the video and audio signal from a camera and displays it on a separate monitor. The two most common systems to send those signals from your camera to the monitor are HDMI and SDI.
HDMI is much more common on DSLR and mirrorless cameras and SDI is much more common on larger cinema cameras. While HDMI can transmit both video and audio, it doesn’t have the ability to lock into a port like SDI does. On the other hand, SDI only transmits video information and not audio.
The Best External Camera Screen & On-Camera Monitors
Atomos Ninja Ultra
The Atomos Ninja Ultra is designed for use with DSLR or mirrorless cameras, offering advanced monitoring abilities and RAW recording never before seen on an Atomos monitor-recorder. It can capture in ProRes RAW up to 8K 30P, 6K 60P & 4K 120P, and has flexible codec options also including ProRes, DNxHD & H.265 (HEVC). It can even record simultaneously in ProRes RAW and H.265 for those looking to utilize a Camera to Cloud workflow.
This monitor-recorder also features the new AtomOS 11 operating system, which has improved memory management and response times compared to other Atomos models. You’ll also have a stronger connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E and RemoteView availability for optimal viewing wherever you are.
- Display Size: 5.2″ / 13.20cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen brightness: 1000nit
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 427 ppi
- Video Input/s: 1x HDMI (2.0)
- Video Format/s: up to 8Kp30
- Weight: Without batteries & media: 12.7 oz (360g)
- Battery Time (based on 2x 7.4V): 5200mAh – up to 2hrs (monitor & record 4K 60p), or 7800mAh – up to 3hrs (monitor & record 4K 60p)
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
This is the latest release from Atomos and offers the best operating system and connectivity options in its class. The Ninja Ultra is the best option for large sets, and can easily share footage to stakeholders who aren’t on set with you.
Atomos Ninja V
The Atomos Ninja V is a touchscreen video monitor and recorder. Even though it is super compact, it is still extremely powerful. It is able to record signals from your camera all the way up to 4K 60p 10-bit HDR video. If your cameras you can send out a RAW video signal straight from the sensor to this recorder, you may actually be able to record better footage than you get straight from your camera.
The screen is super bright, sporting over 1,000 nits of brightness. This is more than enough to see in bright daylight. It is also has over 10 stops of dynamic range, meaning you can clearly see subtle distinctions in your image.
One other major selling point is that the media for this recorder, the AtomX SSDmini is small and very affordable, coming in at only $199 for 500GB and $399 for 1TB.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 5” / 12.7 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1200
- Screen brightness: 1000nit (+/- 10% at center)
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 427 ppi
- Video Input/s: 1x HDMI (2.0)
- Video Format/s: Up to 4Kp60
- Weight: Without batteries & media: 320g (11.29 oz)
- Battery Time (based on 2x 7.4V): 5200mAh – up to 2hrs (monitor & record 4K 60p); 7800mAh – up to 3hrs (monitor & record 4K 60p)
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
The Ninja V is a sophisticated videography tool that introduces professional monitoring capabilities into your workflow at an affordable price. The ability to load up to eight LUTs for previewing how your final footage will look is a game-changing perk.
Beginners who prefer to buy a fully functioning touchscreen monitor rather than rent one will love the Ninja V.
Atomos Sumo19 SE 19″
The Atomos Sumo 19 SE is the newer version of the company’s excellent field monitor-recorder-switcher. This is the big boy at 19” and it is a hugely versatile monitor that has more than a few party tricks. The Sumo 19 can now record the input from your camera at any of the following: ProRes RAW at up to 5.7kp30, 4kp120 DCI/UHD and 2kp240 DCI/HD. CDNG supports up to 4Kp30 DCI. It can accept inputs from several cameras and be used as a quad-view live switcher and recorder for your multi-cam shoots. This is amazing, especially at this price point.
Aside from the recording features, the Sumo 19 SE is more than bright enough for daylight use at 1200nits. It has HDR with over 10 stops of dynamic range and accepts both HDMI and SDI. This is a powerful field monitor that will for sure serve you well on set.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 19” / 12.7 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen brightness: 1200nit (+/- 10% at center)
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 120 ppi
- Video Input/s: 1x HDMI (2.0) 4k p60, SDI: 2x 12G & 2x 3G
- Video Format/s: Apple ProRes RAW up to 6k
- Weight: 14.46 oz (409.9g)
- Battery Time: Battery Dependent
- Touchscreen: Yes, SuperAtom IPS panel (capacitive touch)
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
For large-scale video productions and independent films with a modest budget, the Sumo19 SE really stands out. Whether you’re reviewing dailies on location or using it as an HDR monitor for post-production, you’ll love its brightness, clarity, and dynamic range.
As a unique feature, you can view four different feeds simultaneously on the expansive 19-inch screen during multi-cam shoots.
Blackmagic Design Video Assist 5″ 12G-SDI HDMI HDR
The Blackmagic Design Video Assist 5″ 12G-SDI HDMI HDR allows you to record and monitor using both HDMI as well as SDI inputs. Not only that, but you can also use an external drive as a recording device using the USB-C port. This is great to keep your workflow simple. You can shoot directly to a hard drive and then edit straight away.
This newest version of the Blackmagic Video Assist has a much brighter screen and comes with 12G-SDI. It allows you to pump high levels of data to the recorder and comes with native Blackmagic RAW recording, which is available with select cameras. This codec is very efficient and edits very well in most modern editing programs. It can sometimes allow you to get around recording in the already compressed H.264.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 5” / 12.7 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen brightness: 2500nits
- Video Input/s: 1x HDMI 2.0a, SDI: 1x Micro BNC
- Video Format/s: Up to 4K DCI
- Weight: 14.46 oz (409.9g)
- Battery Time: Battery Dependent
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
Blackmagic has a well-earned reputation for reliable and intuitive equipment, and this monitor is no exception.
While other camera monitors require additional investments for storage media, the Blackmagic Design Video Assist 5” works with any USB-C external hard drive. That means you can get started using this monitor without other costly investments, allowing you to rely on the gear you already have in your kit.
Atomos Shogun 7
If you are going the Atomos route and trying to decide between the Atomos Shogun 7 and the Ninja V, the Shogun adds quite a bit of functionality for the extra price. It also features a bigger 7-inch display. You get four SDI ports, which allows for multi-cam switching. It also has a second battery slot, which is very useful, as this bigger monitor is obviously more power-hungry.
The Shogun is also a brighter screen at 1500nits vs the 1000nits of the Ninja V. This is very useful for viewing the expanded contrast range of HDR video. The Shogun also has around 15 stops of dynamic range versus the approximately 10 of the Ninja.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 7” / 17.78 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen brightness: 1500nit (+/- 10%)
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 325ppi
- Video Input/s: 1 x HDMI (2.0), Quad Link 4 x 3G/6G SDI*, 4 x 3G-SDI, 2x 12G single link SDI
- Video Format/s: Up to 4Kp60
- Weight: 25 oz (709g) without batteries
- Battery Time (based on 2x 7.4V): 5200mAh – up to 1.5hrs (monitor & record 4K 30p; 7800mAh – up to 2.2hrs (monitor & record 4K 30p)
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
It’s always refreshing when brands focus on improving their products for a smoother and more functional user experience without requiring expensive upgrades or purchases. And that’s exactly what Atmos did with its free 10.4 firmware upgrade, which adds multi-camera switching functionality to this already-robust piece of video equipment.
Whether you’re recording footage for later or broadcasting a live stream, this monitor will simplify your process.
SmallHD 702 Touch 7″
The SmallHD 702 Touch 7″ is a rugged monitor built for tough productions. Whereas many of the lower priced monitors are made of plastic, the Touch 702 is made from aircraft grade aluminum and has a unibody design so it has a much more robust build quality.
It is much improved over its predecessor the SmallHD 702 Bright in a few key ways. It is now 50% brighter and has incredible colors. The screen covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, meaning you are getting extremely accurate color reproduction which is very important for determining your look in camera. It also now has a responsive touch screen, making it quicker and much easier to navigate the well-known page interface.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 7” / 17.78 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1200
- Screen brightness: 1500nit
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 32 ppi
- Video Input/s: 1x BNC (3G-SDI) Input/Output, 1x HDMI Type A Input
- Video Format/s: Up to 1080p
- Weight: 18.9oz (535.81g)
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
The SmallHD Touch 7” ticks all the boxes when it comes to monitoring your work. It’s efficient on battery power, extra bright even in full daylight, lightweight, and its clarity will boost your confidence that you’re nailing focus in every shot.
This monitor also offers plenty of power flexibility to work in any environment. Choose from the included Sony L-series plate, or use a V-Mount, Gold Mount, or DC power.
SmallHD Cine 7
Building on the Touch 702, the SmallHD Cine 7 is geared to the highest level of cinema production and is made to work well with cinema cameras. Like the 702 Touch, it covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, giving you accurate color reproduction. It’s built from the same aircraft grade aluminum in a unibody style.
Where this makes its case as the best 7-inch monitor is in the increased brightness at 1,800nits which means it is very useable even in bright daylight. The Cine 7 can also control select cinema cameras, such as the ARRI Alexa Mini, through the touch screen interface using the Ethernet port. It also accepts a 2-pin power input, which allows you to power the monitor when it is attached to a cinema camera. There is also the option to attach different battery plates to the monitor to power it by batteries such as Sony L series batteries, and Gold or V-mount batteries.
The Cine 7 is an all-around, top-of-the-line monitor which is clearly demonstrated by its price. The combination of brightness, ease of use with the SmallHD modules that allow you to switch between different views, insane color accuracy, robust build, and camera control along with lemo power options make this easily a top external camera screen for cinematographers working at the high end.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 7” / 17.78 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1200
- Screen brightness: 1800nits
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 322ppi
- Video Input/s: 1x HDMI, 2x 3G SDI
- Video Format/s: 4K & HDR compatible
- Weight: 20 oz (566.9g)
- Battery Time: Depends on battery used
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
While other monitors exist purely to monitor your footage or switch between feeds, the Cine 7 acts like an extension of your camera. Connect to either an ARRI or a RED cinema camera via the ethernet port, and you can toggle between pages of adjustable camera settings for a more streamlined shooting workflow. Plus, the multiple mounting ports add to the convenience of adding this monitor to your rig.
Feelworld F568 5.5″
Going to the other far end of the price spectrum, the Feelworld F568 5.5″ is one of the more affordable external camera screen options. Just because it has a low price doesn’t mean it doesn’t include most of the features you need from a monitor.
Like many of its higher-priced brethren, it has a 1080p resolution, a very high 1000:1 contrast ratio, and standard focus and exposure assist tools such as focus peaking, histogram, and anamorphic mode. The feature I love the most is most often missing from DSLRs and mirrorless cameras: false color.
This monitor is extremely light at only 60oz, and is therefore great for working on top of a camera flying on a gimbal. It takes either Sony NP-F L series or Canon LP-E6 batteries and even allows you to power your camera from the monitor using a DC output port. The F568 also ships with a cold shoe mounted tilt arm so you are pretty much ready to go out of the box. What more could you expect from such an affordable monitor?
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 5.5” / 13.97 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen brightness: 500cd/sq. m
- Video Input/s: 1 x HDMI
- Video Format/s: Up to 4K DCI
- Weight: 6.17 oz (175g)
- Power Consumption: <=9W
- Touchscreen: No
Why did we choose this external camera screen?
Fans of DSLRs and mirrorless cameras alike can benefit from the functionality and affordability of this field monitor. When you’re looking for a simple and straightforward upgrade to your camera’s rear display screen with a few bonus features, the F568 is an easy choice.
If you’re already shooting with a Sony or Canon camera, you’ll love the ability to use your existing batteries to power your monitor.
Atomos Shinobi 7″
The Atomos Shinobi 7″ is an extremely well-priced 7-inch external camera screen. Unlike the previously mentioned Atomos monitors, this does not have recording functionality. However, it is an excellent monitor with excellent specs and a trick up its sleeve in the ability to cross convert SDI to HDMI or the other way around. Sometimes you get external client monitors that only accept HDMI and your camera may only be able to output SDI.
This monitor has seriously impressive brightness — a whopping 2,200nits, in fact. Now something that bright often needs a bigger fan which can lead to more noise. But Atomos thought of this issue. You can decide whether you need max brightness or lower fan noise. Lower fan noise is better for indoor situations where you usually don’t need the full brightness. Full brightness is more useful in outdoor situations where a slightly louder fan isn’t disruptive.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 7” / 17.78 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen brightness: 2200nits
- Dots/Pixels per Inch:
- Video Input/s: 1x HDMI (2.0) 4Kp60 & 1x 3G SDI – 2Kp60
- Video Format/s: Up to 4K DCI
- Weight: 1.04 lbs (577g)
- Battery Time: 5200mAh – up to 2hrs, 7800mAh – up to 3hrs
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this external camera screen?
When you’re looking for a straightforward external screen for perfecting your focus and framing, and you don’t need recording functionality, this is a terrific monitor. Features like focus peaking, Zebra, framing guides, active histogram, and vectorscopes ensure you always get the shot you’re looking for. It also lets you control a range of camera settings for most popular camera models.
Atomos Ninja V+ 5”
If you need a monitor/recorder with 8k recording from cameras like the Canon R5, the Atomos Ninja V+ 5″ is going be your go-to monitor. The body is the same as the Ninja V, but the “+” part of this recorder monitor is because of the powerful new processor that allows this updated model to record much higher resolutions and frame rates.
The Ninja V+ can now record up to 8K and all the way up to 4K 120p. This is great for pairing with the Sony FX6 or FX9. This recorder can also now record to RAW, but just be aware that it only does so to ProRes RAW. Another great feature is that this monitor can take an SDI module, allowing you to use it on more professional setups.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 5” / 12.7 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen brightness: 1000nits
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 423 ppi
- Video Input/s: 1x HDMI Type A (HDMI 2.0) Input
- Video Format/s: ProRes RAW recording over HDMI up to 4Kp120 with Z Cam E2 and E2-M4
- Weight: 12.7 oz (360g)
- Power Consumption: 10 W (Typical), 22 W (Maximum)
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
Many 8K capable cameras, like the Canon R5, still deal with overheating issues when shooting in 8K for a prolonged period. The Ninja V+ 5” eliminates this problem with a helpful workaround. Using the Ninja V+ 5” and recording to SDI or to an external storage device via HDMI will help you record for considerably longer stretches. No more waiting for an overheated camera to cool off!
SmallHD Indie 7
The SmallHD Indie 7, like all SmallHD monitors, is built like a tank while still being compact and light at only 26 ounces. It is bright, at 1,000nits, has 10 bit color, very responsive touch controls with SmallHD’s great menu user interface, and is able to have useful add-on accessories.
With the ability to control the RED DSMC2 and the RED Komodo cameras (via licensed software upgrades), this is great for mid- to upper-end filmmakers. This also gives you options other than simply using the offerings from RED. You can also add on a Bolt 4K RX monitor module that will give you the ability to use this monitor as a wireless director’s viewfinder with a range of up to 750ft.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 7” / 17.8 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1900 x 1200
- Screen brightness: 1000 cd/sq.m
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 323ppi
- Video Input/s: 1x HDMI Type A Input & 1x BNC (3G-SDI/HD-SDI) Input
- Video Format/s: Up to UHD 4K/30p
- Weight: 26 oz (737g)
- Power Consumption: 17.3 W
- Touchscreen: Yes
Why did we choose this camera monitor? Tk tom is here editing
Flexibility is key when choosing a workhorse camera monitor for long-term use, because it allows your gear to adapt as your filmmaking goals expand. Between the durability of the monitor’s aluminum case, the wide range of image controls for perfecting your exposure and focus, and the ability to upgrade to the Bolt 4K RX module as your needs change, this monitor will help you future-proof your kit.
Lilliput A7S 7″ IPS Full HD HDMI Field LED Monitor
As Lilliput’s first 4K input monitor, the A7S features a Full HD LCD panel with Ultra 4K support. The display boasts a 1920 x 1200 resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio for sharper images. A 4K HDMI output port is also present in the A7S, enabling connections between the monitor and HDMI-capable devices.
The A7S offers different tools and functions for editing footage. These functions range from timecodes to image flip tools. You won’t have a problem with charging and mounting this field monitor to your DSLR. It has dedicated battery plates for select Sony, Canon, and Panasonic models, a shoe mount adaptor, and ¼” BSW thread holes.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 7” / 17.8 cm
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1200
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: 324 ppi
- Video Input/s: 1 HDMI Input
- Video Format/s: HDMIRGB (Ultra 4K)
- Weight: 11.3 oz / 320 g
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
Even with an ultra-low price tag, this monitor is anything but basic. Customizable function keys provide relief from menu scrolling so you can quickly access the controls you need most often. You can also use a variety of DSLR batteries by swapping out the battery plates as needed. Plus, the Lilliput A7S comes with a lens hood and a rugged rubber case for protection and easy use right out of the box.
Feelworld 7″ HD IPS Ultra-thin HDMI On-Camera Field Monitor
With the IPS panel in Feelworld’s seven-inch video monitor, photo and video pros working in different perspectives will get stunning images with natural details. This monitor also reproduces colors accurately, delivers high-quality images, and achieves full color through its 1280 x 800 resolution. It even features HDMI, audio/video, and other inputs, as well as DSLR and camcorder compatibility.
The FW759 is not only functional; it’s also ultra-thin and portable for easier shooting in various conditions. So no matter where you shoot, the monitor will deliver sharp and detailed images. It even features an HDMI lock that helps you transmit video signals from your camera without running into any possible issues.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 7”
- Screen Resolution: 1280 x 800
- Dots/Pixels per Inch: Unknown
- Video Input/s: 1 HDMI Input & 1 Standard Video Input
- Video Format/s: HDMI up to 4K UHD
- Weight: 14 oz / 400 g
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
When you’re just getting started with video recording, the cost of investment can be a major barrier to entry. The Feelworld 7” monitor is the least expensive option on this list, so it’s perfect for students. Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or compact camcorder, this monitor makes it easy to see what you’re working on in any environment.
Lilliput 667GL70NP/H/Y 7″ Camera-Top LED Monitor
The 667GL from Lilliput comes in a 7-inch package — the same size as its predecessor, the 668GL. It features a 16:9 aspect ratio that displays HD footage in their entirety. You can also plug compatible cameras into the monitor’s component and composite inputs. The 667GL includes a special input for HD-SDI devices as well, which helps it transmit video signals in the format.
You’ll get true colors on your footage with this on-camera monitor’s 500:1 contrast ratio. This ratio delivers full and vivid hues all over your image. The monitor also features a matte display with anti-glare and reflection protection. You won’t have to worry about viewing footage in harsh sunlight as the 667GL boasts 450 cd/m2 brightness. This feature gives your video a less washed out appearance.
Key Specifications:
- Display Size: 7” / 17.8 cm
- Screen Resolution: 800 x 480
- Video Input/s: 1 HDMI Input, 1 Component Input, & 2 Composite Inputs
- Video Format/s: HDMI
- Weight: 1.1 lb / 510 g (Without Sunhood)
Why did we choose this camera monitor?
With this 7” widescreen LCD field monitor, Lilliput prioritized affordability and functionality without requiring you to invest in a bunch of add-on accessories. Though it’s a relatively simple and barebones monitor, it is loaded with perks. They include both Sony L-series and Canon LP-E6 battery plates, a shoe-mount adapter, a snap-on sunshade, an IR remote control, and an HDMI cable.
What to Consider When Buying an External Camera Screen
If you plan to work with an external camera screen, there are a few key characteristics to consider. Ideally the product you choose will work seamlessly with your gear and provide all the features and benefits you need. The more information you can keep track of and display as you shoot, the better.
Wireless
The ability to work wirelessly when transmitting footage from your camera to your monitor can help in a variety of situations. For example, when working with a drone, a wireless monitor is a must have. Any time you may need a little distance between the camera and the monitor, wireless is a great addition to your feature set.
Recording Abilities
Some monitors only display footage, while others can record directly from the monitor. Recording monitors are helpful because they let you store your footage on a second device. They also create a consistent type of video file regardless of the camera you use.
Size and Weight
If you’ll attach your external monitor to your camera via the hot shoe or a bracket, it helps to select a lightweight product. After a day of filming, the added weight will certainly increase camera operator fatigue. That said, it’s a good idea to choose a display big enough for you to see everything you need to on the screen.
Resolution
A higher resolution monitor will provide a more accurate idea of how your footage will appear. But if you’re just tracking exposure and framing, consider a slightly lower resolution monitor to save money. The monitor will scale your resolution down for viewing, but your original footage will still be as high quality as ever.
Input/Output
Different cameras offer different output and input options for external monitors. When shopping for a monitor, make sure you purchase a model compatible with the cameras you’re most likely to use. If you use a variety of cameras, it’s a good idea to choose a monitor with a few different input and output ports for maximum compatibility.
Why do you need an external camera screen?
When you have a DSLR or Mirrorless camera your camera comes equipped with a small screen that can make it difficult to determine precise focus, framing, and exposure. Having an external monitor on your camera gives you much greater screen real estate to perform all these tasks. You can easily determine focus because you now have many more pixels to tell the difference between what is in focus and what is out of focus. Framing is much more precise and you can notice smaller details. A larger monitor also makes for a much more comfortable and precise experience.
Aside from the benefit of having a bigger screen, an external camera monitor adds functionality that is often not present on cameras. You get exposure tools including false color, which allows you to have a visual overlay that shows you the different exposure values in your image using different colors for different values.
