If you've just started out in video, on-camera monitors may seem like a luxury. Experienced videographers will tell you otherwise.
Also known as field monitors, some of the more high-end on-camera monitors not only increase the size of your display but can improve your camera's video functionality. For example, when shooting with a Panasonic Lumix S5 and an Atomos Ninja V external recorder, you can shoot 12-bit RAW instead of 10-bit 4:2:2 with its internal recording option. On-camera monitors are also great additions if your camera lacks features such as a fully articulating screen such as the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K.
Even if you have features turned on such as focus peaking, zebra lines, and false colors, an on-camera monitor lets you apply frame monitors which can reveal flickers that smaller monitors might not. They also enable you to proof content and show other people on set without having to cram around a small screen.
In this list, we run through the best external monitors and video recorders around so you can get the big-picture experience before you hit your editing suite and it’s too late to re-shoot.
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Best on-camera monitor overall
(Image credit: Adam Duckworth/Digital Camera World)
Since the release of the Atomos Ninja V back in 2018, it has become pretty much the industry standard in monitor recorders. It's a popular choice among both budding and professional videographers and filmmakers thanks to its beautifully calibrated 5-inch HDR display and its ability to support 4K 60p ProRes HQ, H.265, 4:2:2 ad DNxHR.
The Ninja V will also support 6K Apple ProRes RAW and it's the only monitor of this size to do so thanks to a deal between Apple and Atomos. Other features include pro-level monitor tools such as waveforms, false colors, HDR monitoring, and LUT support.
If your camera doesn't support 4K, the Ninja V might be a bit overkill as you won't make the most out of the features you're paying for. If you're just after a monitor so that you can view your video easier, the Atomos Shinobi would be a better option and it will save you money.
Alternatively, if you're shooting some serious projects and need something even bigger, the Atomos Shogun which appears later in this list sports a massive 7-inch screen, perfect for use with the best cinema cameras.
Size may not be everything, but the Blackmagic Video Assist 7 12G HDR boasts a sharp and vibrant 7-inch touchscreen that's an absolute delight to use. With its large, clear display and up to 2500 nits of brightness, it's hard to imagine going back to a standard 3-inch camera screen.
In addition to the user-friendly interface, the built-in scopes for exposure and focusing assessments make achieving precision a breeze. Furthermore, it offers the capability to record up to 4K 60fps broadcast quality Raw footage with the option to overlay or hard-code LUTs into Blackmagic Raw. While there's a lot to love about this device, it may not be suitable for everyone.
The 7-inch monitor adds significant weight when combined with lenses, a camera cage, and other accessories attached to your camera. For those who find this setup too cumbersome, there's a 5-inch version – the Blackmagic Video Assist 5 12G HDR – which is ideal for run-and-gun handheld shooting, where size and weight are key considerations.
No locator pins - won't work with all Ninja accessories
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Plastic body
If you're just looking for an external monitor and don't need recording capabilities, the Atomos Shinobi delivers the display quality of the Atomos Ninja V but at a fraction of the price. It's the perfect choice for vloggers who shoot with a camera with limited screen articulation such as the Sony A7 III or the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K which has a fixed display.
You can easily view waveform and histogram information thanks to its intuitive menu. With its centrally mounted battery, the Shinobi is nicely balanced which is perfect for when you need to shoot with a gimbal.
Whether you're a photographer or videographer, the screen on the Shinobi will be able to accurately display HDR pictures which a camera's native screen won't be able to do. The standard model comes with HDMI connectors but you can choose to go for the Atomos Shinobi SDI which has lockable SDI sockets.
With the built-in camera control for various Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Blackmagic, and even Z Cam cinema cameras, this is a great option for anyone wanting a monitor that will help a filmmaker get the shot and be a very helpful visual aid in the composition process.
For a reasonable price, you get a great package that is built to withstand the vigorous day-to-day life of a filmmaker while on set, in the studio, or for on-the-go shooting.
Paired with a tough travel case for ease of transport between shoots, great monitor features, and the ability for onboard audio monitoring, the PortKeys LH5P II is a great 5.5” monitor for anyone looking to up their game in the cinematography world.
With a larger bright 7-inch screen, it's perfect for using with more advanced projects
Specifications
Screen size: 7-inch
Screen tech: LCD
Screen resolution: 1920 x 1200
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Recording capabilities: Yes
Batteries: 2x Sony L-series NP-F
Touchscreen: Yes
HDR: Yes
Brightness: 1500 nits
Reasons to buy
+
Super-bright 7-inch screen
+
Built-in video recorder
+
Feature-packed
+
SDI inputs/outputs
Reasons to avoid
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2.5in SSD drive costs extra
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No buttons
This is essentially the 7-inch version of the Atomos Ninja V and is the perfect solution for those who need an external video recorder with a large built-in screen for monitoring footage. Offering real-time recording to 4K formats including ProRes RAW and CinemaDNG, the bigger screen will help you monitor the footage better – allowing you to check focus precisely right across the frame.
You can also monitor exposure accurately, thanks to built-in presets that allow the screen to give an accurate translation of the camera manufacturer's Log video formats. With a bright 1500nit and over 15 stops of real dynamic range, this screen is suitable for use on location as well as in studio settings. This a powerful unit for both cinematographers and multi-camera streamed productions.
A brilliant alternative to Atomos if you're on a tight budget and want an external monitor
Specifications
Screen size: 7-inch
Screen type: LCD
Screen resolution: 1920 x 1200
Aspect ratio: 16:10
Recording capabilities: No
Batteries: Sony L-Style battery slots
Touchscreen: No
HDR: No
Brightness: 500 nits
Reasons to buy
+
Includes Velcro sun hood
+
Includes ball-mount
Reasons to avoid
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Less bright than most LCDs
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No touch display
If you want the most affordable big-screen option around, then the Lilliput A7s offers sensational value, ingesting 4K content despite costing less than £200. It includes all the overlays and features you’d expect from an external monitor like focus-peaking, levels, histogram, and more. In the box, the A7s come with a silicone case for added protection, a sun hood, and a sturdy metal ball mount.
Unlike the pricier monitors in our list, its screen isn’t touch-sensitive, so all interaction relies on the buttons, though thanks to an ergonomic scroll wheel, it doesn’t feel too cumbersome. In turn, if you’re okay with old-school inputs and want the biggest screen-to-dollar ratio to proof your footage or photos, the Lilliput is a no-fuss option that’s both functional and affordable
Best budget on-camera recorder
(Image credit: James Abbott / Digital Camera World)
The Blackmagic Video Assist 5 3G is definitely a solid monitor with excellent build quality and a significant upgrade from the typical 3-inch LCD screens found on most cameras. The larger 5-inch screen greatly enhances focusing, composition, and exposure adjustments.
However, it's worth noting that the monitor's limitation to 1080p video capture might be a setback for some, especially in the current era where 4K has become the standard for many high-end productions.
Nevertheless, for individuals primarily working with 1080p video, the monitor remains a compelling option, especially with its ability to capture Raw video footage. Nonetheless, it's important to acknowledge that the resolution limitation might make the Video Assist 5 3G feel somewhat outdated, so considering a more advanced and pricier model could be a wise move for seasoned users and industry professionals looking to future-proof their equipment.
This excellent value monitor comes with a tilt arm for easy positioning
Specifications
Screen size: 5.5-inch
Screen type: LCD
Screen resolution: 1920 x 1080
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Batteries: Sony L-Style Battery slot
Touchscreen: No
HDR: No
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent value
+
Comes with tilt arm
Reasons to avoid
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Plastic frame
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No touchscreen
The most affordable monitor we’d recommend is the Feelworld FW568 5.5, a compact monitor capable of displaying 4K content on its 500-nit Full HD display. Complete with a sun shade and tilt arm in the box, at under $200/£200, it represents fantastic value. Just like the Lilliput A7s, with no touch display, it’s less intuitive for indoor shoots, but the benefit of buttons can’t be overstated when out and about and shooting with gloves on.
Additionally, the FW568 has plenty of tricks up its sleeves, from the histogram, false color, and exposure-peaking overlays through to an Anamorphic mode and a headphone output. Weighing just 175g, its plastic construction doesn’t feel super-premium, but the low weight does make this monitor a great addition to a run-and-gun gimbal setup.
How to choose the best on camera monitor
As you'd expect, there are a number of different factors that contribute to the decision-making process. The first is the size of the monitor, with most in the range of 5 and 7 inches. Generally, the larger the screen, the heavier your setup is going to be. That brings me to the second consideration, that of weight. If you are a pure run-and-gun, then pick a super lightweight option, as you don't want to carry around any unnecessary weight.
Not all monitors let you record from the device itself, so if that's important to your workflow, then make sure this is included.
Why should i both with an on-camera monitor?
These types of external monitors provide so many additional benefits. More often than not, they are larger than the display on your video camera, so instantly you'll be able to see your work in greater detail. This provides the added benefit of being able to focus on objects more accurately. It is also possible to notice issues with the shot before it's too late.
Does it matter what video my camera outputs?
Yes. It absolutely does. Your camera output and the monitor input must match. This includes both the resolution of the video and the frame rate you're recording at. If, for example, you do a lot of slow motion videography but you buy a monitor that can only display up to 30 frames per second, then you're not going to be able to see your work accurately.
How we test on camera monitors
We look at three key elements when reviewing on-camera monitors, including key features, build and handling, and performance.
By looking at the key features first, we're able to see what sets each monitor apart from its rivals. Every company is looking for an edge to be first in people's hearts and minds, so considering these first is important.
We then move on to the quality of the actual unit itself. Monitors need to be rugged and robust, so we're taking the time to check what the build quality is like and whether it'll stand the test of time.
Finally, we obviously want to assess the ability of the monitor to perform as it should. This involves using the monitor in real-world situations and using all its features.
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Having studied Journalism and Public Relations at the University of the West of England Hannah developed a love for photography through a module on photojournalism. She specializes in Portrait, Fashion and lifestyle photography but has more recently branched out in the world of stylized product photography. Hannah spent three years working at Wex Photo Video as a Senior Sales Assistant, using her experience and knowledge of cameras to help people buy the equipment that is right for them. With eight years experience working with studio lighting, Hannah has run many successful workshops teaching people how to use different lighting setups.
