Having an external camera screen is helpful for videographers and still photographers. There are several advantages, including better screen resolution and visualization. And an external camera screen gives you a larger display and better viewing angle options.
The Atomos Ninja V is our top choice for external camera screens. You can record 4K video at 60 fps with internal playback. And it has all the features and ports you need for high-quality photography and video recording.
The Best External Camera Screen
An external camera monitor can be a game-changer for shooting video or stills. It gives you more freedom and flexibility. So they help improve your photography and videography.
First, you’ll see a quick rundown of our list of the best camera monitors. In the next section, we’ll look at each camera screen in more detail. And the final section looks at some key features you must consider when buying an external camera screen.
- 10-bit 4K / 60p recording with Pro-Res / DNxHR
- Assist tools for brightness, contrast, color, and focus
- 5" 1000-nit HDR touchscreen
- AtomX connectivity for add-ons and control
- Lightweight and durable aluminum body
- 4K Ultra HD resolution with anti-glare coating
- Wide viewing angle
- Adjustable backlight brightness with a 2200-nit limit
- 3D LUT (look up table) support to map colors
- HDMI and audio and visual inputs / outputs
- 5.5" 1920 x 1080 Full HD display
- Bright 1500 nits for outdoor use
- Built-in dual-channel HD-SDI / HDMI inputs
- Waveform, vectorscope, and False Color
- Touchscreen and Peaking Focus Assist
- 7" 1920 x 1200 IPS LCD panel
- 4K resolution with 10-bit color support
- HDMI, SDI, and mini-HDMI inputs
- High 400 cd/m2 brightness
- Rugged metal housing and sunshade
- 15.6" 4K Ultra HD resolution
- HDR capability for enhanced image details
- Supports both HDMI 2.0 and SDI connections
- Includes built-in scopes
- Has a built-in calibration sensor
- 15.6" IPS display with 4K resolution
- Multiple tools for precise color calibration
- Supports 4K HDMI input / output
- 300 cd/m2 brightness for clear visuals
- Includes sunshade for outdoor use
- 4K HDR monitor with 7” screen
- 1000-nit brightness for outdoor viewing
- 4K HDMI input / output
- USB-C power delivery
- Lightweight and portable
- Full HD resolution and supports 4K recording
- 178-degree wide viewing angle
- Bright 2600-nit screen for outdoor shooting
- Touchscreen with custom shortcut options
- Full of advanced features like histogram, vectorscope, and waveform
- 7" IPS panel with 4K Ultra HD resolution
- 10-bit color depth for improved accuracy
- Built-in 3D LUTs for color grading
- Dual-purpose sun hood for outdoor use
- 2x NP-F550 batteries for extended use
- 6" IPS LCD HD monitor
- 4K HDMI input/output
- Focus assist and false color
- Waveform and vectorscope
- Built-in battery and charger
- Crisp 1920 x 1200 IPS LCD display
- Supports 4K input with HDMI
- Lightweight and portable design
- Built-in histogram, false color, and focus assist
- Includes sun hood for outdoor use
- 7" HD monitor with 1280 x 800 resolution
- 1500-nit brightness for optimal viewing in any lighting
- 1/4 to 20" and 3/8 to 16" mounting points
- Built-in waveform and vectorscope tools
- Dual battery plate for Canon LP-E6 and Sony L-series
- Bright 5" 1920 x 1080 display
- Advanced focus tools for easier focusing
- Flexible mounting options
- Built-in scopes for easy exposure checks
- High-quality construction and durable design
1. Atomos Ninja V 4K Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
Atomos
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
8 x 6 x 6 inches / 20.3 x 15 x 15 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
360 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
5 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 9
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
1000 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
No
|
| Ports |
Ports
HDMI (2.0) 4K / 60p input and output, 3.5mm stereo microphone, 3.5mm headphone, remote jack
|
| Best For |
Best For
Enthusiast photography and videography, Panasonic Lumix cameras
|
The Atmos Ninja V is a popular monitor due to the well-calibrated HDR screen and support for the following:
- 4K video up to 60 fps
- 6K Apple ProRes RAW (from the Nikon Z6 and Z7)
- 10-bit 4:2:2 chroma subsampling
- H.265, also called HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding)
- DNxHR
- Log formats from ARRI, Canon, Panasonic, RED, and Sony
The maximum screen resolution is only 1080p. But it can still record 4K video at 60 fps and display anamorphic lens footage with 2x, 1.5x, 1.33x, or Panasonic’s 4:3 aspect ratio.
In fact, the Atomos Ninja V can even improve the quality of footage your camera can shoot! For example, if you have a Panasonic Lumix S5, you can shoot 12-bit RAW instead of 10-bit 4:2:2.
Many features are also available, including multi-level exposure tools and waveforms. There’s a built-in vectorscope. And you have tools for focus peaking, zebra stripes, and a false-color function.
It also has built-in playback options. So you can review your latest shots without exporting the media files to another device. And you have inputs for sound recording equipment.
The downsides are the lack of a touchscreen and the fan’s noise. But it’s a lightweight external camera screen for DSLR and mirrorless cameras. The performance is excellent. And the price is reasonable for the quality.
2. FeelWorld FW279 4K DSLR Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
FEELWORLD
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
5.6 x 3.4 x 1.1 inches / 14.2 x 8.6 x 2.8 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
365 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
7 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1200
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 10
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
2200 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
No
|
| Ports |
Ports
4K HDMI input and loop output, 3.5mm headphone jack
|
| Best For |
Best For
DSLR cameras, shooting in bright sunlight, camera rigs
|
The real strength of the FeelWorld FW279 is its large, bright screen. It’s contrasty and the high resolution is perfect for shooting outside in direct sunlight.
The color calibration settings allow excellent color rendition. There are plenty of monitoring tools, like focus assist, zebra stripes, and histograms. It’s also designed to work with most DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
It’s a lightweight external camera screen. That makes it easy to attach to your DSLR camera rig or stabilizer setup. And there’s no need to transfer the media first.
It also has built-in speakers. This lets you watch playback with audio. Or you can also use the headphone jack for better audio playback.
The display isn’t a touchscreen, which is a drawback. But you get a lovely 160-degree viewing angle. This wide-angle view gives you more viewing options. And it makes it easier to get the exact shot you need.
3. Portkeys BM5WR Touchscreen Field Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
Portkeys
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
5.7 x 4.7 x 1.8 inches / 14.5 x 12 x 4.5 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
351 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
5.5 inches
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 9
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
2200 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
Yes
|
| Ports |
Ports
HDMI and SDI input and loop output
|
| Best For |
Best For
Outdoor shooting, remote shooting, photography and videography
|
If you’re looking for a bright, contrasty on-camera monitor, then the Portkeys BM5WR may be the right choice. Its brightness rating of 2200 nits is only beaten by the Blackmagic Video Assist listed below.
Its screen is only 5.5 inches, and it can’t record video. But it offers excellent connectivity, supporting 3G-SDI, HDMI, HDMI-SDI cross-conversion, and Bluetooth.
Other valuable tools include precision waveform, zooming, color temperature, ARRI false-color mode, and improved focus peaking. It also has underscan, OSD flip, image capture, and 3D LUT features.
When used with the Blackmagic Design Pocket Camera 4K or 6K, the Bluetooth connection lets you remotely control settings. These settings include zoom, shutter speed, codec, focus, and screen resolution.
The BM5WR gives you a nice wide viewing angle of 178 degrees. And the bright display is a touchscreen. This makes it super easy to use.
It’s also made with toughened glass. This means you get a productive viewing angle and extra protection. It’s why it’s one of the best camera screens for outdoor shooting. Plus, the 1000:1 low-contrast ratio is another spec that improves its outdoor use.
4. Lilliput A7s 4K Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
LILLIPUT
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
7.5 x 31.5 x 0.8 inches/ 18 x 12.4 x 2 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
320 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
7 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1200
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 10
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
500 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
No
|
| Ports |
Ports
4K HDMI 1.4 input and loop output, 3.5mm headphone jack
|
| Best For |
Best For
Photographers and videographers on a budget, DSLR cameras, indoor shooting
|
The Lilliput A7s is the most affordable 7-inch on-camera monitor if you don’t need to record your footage. It has buttons and a scroll wheel rather than a touchscreen.
It also fits onto a DSLR hot shoe, can cope with 4K video (with loop-through HDMI output), and has two customizable function keys. It offers similar bells and whistles to more expensive on-camera monitors.
Advanced functions include the following:
- Audio Level Meters: You can check if the audio is in sync and if there is room for it to be louder.
- False Color: This helps you with proper exposure by showing colors and values.
- Color Bars: Provides a consistent reference for post-processing.
- Pixel Zoom: Allows a close-up view to see the focus distance and other small details.
There’s also focus peaking, a pixel-to-pixel scan, and an image flip. All these features are designed to make life easier for videographers.
The camera monitor has a good 170-degree viewing angle. It’s also lightweight yet durable. And it includes a Velcro sun hood, silicone case, and ball mount.
It isn’t the most advanced monitor. And it isn’t ideal for outdoor shooting. But it’s a good budget-friendly option for DSLR users.
5. Blackmagic Design HDR Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
Blackmagic Design
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
8.3 x 7.8 x 3.3 inches/ 21 x 19.8 x 8.3
|
| Weight |
Weight
410 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
5 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 9
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
2500 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
Yes
|
| Ports |
Ports
HDMI input and output, BNC, SDI input and output, 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C (3.1 Generation 1), UHS-II SD card slot
|
| Best For |
Best For
Professional video and photography, RAW shooting
|
The Blackmagic Design HDR monitor is at the top end of the market for on-camera monitors. Plus, it’s the only one that can capture Blackmagic’s RAW code video. (When you shoot with a model from its Pocket Cinema Camera range.)
The screen resolution is Full HD. So it’s an excellent external screen display. It’s a good option for high-quality video recording. This monitor allows you to capture 4K at 60 fps. And you can use it with pro-level DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
It has RAW compatibility. It has all the ports you need for professional recording. And it also offers 3D LUTs, professional scopes, exposure tools, and focus-assist features.
The screen is incredibly bright. The brightness adjustment goes all the way up to 2500 nits. This strong illumination helps you see all the details of your shot. It also helps when shooting in direct sunlight.
6. ANDYCINE A6 Plus 4K HDMI Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
ANDYCINE
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
7.7 x 5 x 4.1 inches / 19.5 x 12 x 10.4 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
235 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
5.5 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 9
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
450 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
Yes
|
| Ports |
Ports
4K HDMI input and loop output, 3.5mm stereo headphone jack
|
| Best For |
Best For
Beginner photographers and videographers
|
The ANDYCINE A6 Plus offers a lot of features at a low price point. The video assist options include a histogram, a false-color function, and peaking tools. Plus, there is 3D LUT support via an SD slot.
The Full HD display gives you good color and detail. But with a max brightness of 450 nits, you will struggle in bright sunlight.
The built-in arm does give good flexibility. It gives you a good view when shooting from any angle.
It attaches to the hot shoe at the top of your DSLR or mirrorless camera. And it’s compatible with Nikon, Canon, Fujifilm, and Sony cameras. You can also attach it to a camera rig or gimbal. It also has an SD card slot built-in.
The A6 Plus monitor comes with a sun hood, carrying case, and rechargeable battery set. And you can also use the 8V DC output to charge DSLR cameras. It’s the perfect camera monitor if you’re a beginner.
7. Atomos Shinobi 7-inch 4K Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
Atomos
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
9.6 x 7.2 x 3.9 inches / 24 x 18 x 9.9 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
577 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
7 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1200
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 9
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
2200 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
Yes
|
| Ports |
Ports
HDMI (2.0) 4Kp60 and 2Kp60 and input and output, 3.5mm stereo
|
| Best For |
Best For
Enthusiast videographers, photographers, and vloggers
|
The Atomos Shinobi 5-inch and Atomos Shinbi 7-inch monitors are the equivalents of the Ninja V. But you can’t use them as an external recorder.
This bright, 7-inch version has log conversion. So you can preview the look of RAW footage and upload LUTs from an SD card.
There aren’t many major differences between the Shinobi 5 and 7. But the bigger screen does give you a better image.
The Shinobi 7-inch is an excellent device when shooting photography in Live View. You can shoot from more angles. And its brightness allows you to shoot outside in bright sunlight. It also has HDR settings for even better image viewing.
8. Desview R7 II Camera Field Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
Desview
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
7 x 4.6 x 0.9 inches / 17.8 x 11.7 x 2.2 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
400 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
7 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1200
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 10
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
2600 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
Yes
|
| Ports |
Ports
4K HDMI Type-A (HDMI 1.4) input and output, 3.5mm headphone output
|
| Best For |
Best For
Photographers and videographers using DSLR cameras
|
The Desview R7 II is a big improvement from the original R7 monitor. The previous model only had a brightness of 450 nits. The R7 II has a brightness of 2600 nits. That’s incredible brightness. And it allows you to shoot outdoors in the brightest of sunlight.
We’re pleased to see this model has a touchscreen. That makes it simple and easy to use. You can also use it when wearing gloves, which is handy in cold weather. The menu systems are also straightforward and uncomplicated. And you can customize the shortcut buttons on the screen for quick access to your favorite features.
The external screen has Full HD resolution. And it supports 4K video recording. That’s ideal when using 4K DSLR cameras. You also get custom imports for 3D-LUT to help you preview the shooting image.
Other useful features include a histogram, waveform, and vectorscope. There are color temperature controls. And it supports HDR monitoring for better detail inspection.
The specifications are excellent. But it remains a compact and lightweight external camera screen. It’s more expensive than the original R7. But the Desview R7 II camera monitor is well worth the extra money if you can stretch your budget.
9. FeelWorld T7 4K Camera Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
FEELWORLD
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
7.1 x 4.7 x 0.7 inches / 18 x 12 x 1.8 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
320 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
7 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1200
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 10
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
450 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
No
|
| Ports |
Ports
4K HDMI input-output, 3.5mm stereo headphone
|
| Best For |
Best For
Beginner photographers and amateur vloggers
|
The FeelWorld T7 is a budget-friendly version of the FW279.
It doesn’t have 2200-nit brightness. But it makes up for it with a large screen, slim design, and wide 160-degree viewing angle. It is also a lightweight external screen. So it’s not a burden when attached to your rig.
Despite being lightweight and compact, it’s a durable camera monitor. And it has a strong aluminum frame. This is reassuring when compared to some of the plastic-framed competitors.
You also get an excellent range of monitoring tools. It includes color calibration technology, a focus peaking filter, a histogram, exposure controls, and a false-color function.
The low-brightness level does let you down when shooting outside. But the Full HD resolution is sharp and vivid. The T7 can also cope with higher video resolutions, so you can pair it with your 4K camera.
10. FeelWorld F6 Plus DSLR Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
FEELWORLD
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
5.7 x 3.4 x 1 inches / 14.2 x 8.7 x 2.7 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
235 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
5.5 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1080
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 9
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
500 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
Yes
|
| Ports |
Ports
4K HDMI and Type-C input, 4K HDMI and DC output, 3.5mm stereo
|
| Best For |
Best For
Canon Users
|
The Feelworld F6 Plus is specifically designed for professionals using Canon DSLR cameras. The display supports Full HD screen resolution. And the input-output ports cover all the most popular options.
It has a built-in tilting arm that rotates 360 degrees. This means you can view the screen from any angle. And its slim, lightweight design makes it highly portable. So it won’t add much extra weight to your DSLR setup.
The screen is smaller than the 7-inch versions. But the Full HD resolution gives you a crisp and clear image for Live View and playback. The battery life is disappointing for a camera screen at this price. But overall, the F6 Plus does offer good value for your money.
11. Neewer F100 Camera Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
Neewer
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
8.8 x 7.6 x 2.5 inches / 22 x 19 x 6.3 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
866g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
7 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1200 x 800
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 9
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
450 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
No
|
| Ports |
Ports
4K HDMI input-output
|
| Best For |
Best For
Beginners
|
The Neewer F100 is a basic monitor with a large screen. It’s ideal for beginner Canon cameras. It has various “extras,” including an AV-HDMI cable and a hot shoe ball head. You also get a shoe mount and a sun hood.
Screen resolution and brightness are limited. But this external camera screen does have a 1200:1 contrast ratio. It also offers basic features such as zoom assist, scanning, and focus peaking. These are excellent tools if you’re new to using an on-camera monitor for photography or video.
The F100‘s screen comes with a high-quality mental mount. It attaches to your camera’s hot shoe. And it’s strong and sturdy, so there’s no unwanted movement when viewing your picture.
It’s a basic camera monitor. But the build quality is strong overall.
12. SmallHD Indie 7 On-Camera Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
SmallHD
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
7.1 x 4.7 x 1.3 inches / 18 x 12 x 3.3 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
567 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
7 inches
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 10
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
1800
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
Yes
|
| Ports |
Ports
HDMI (Micro, Type-D), 3G-SDI input and output, 3.5mm headphone, USB 2.0, ethernet, SD card slot
|
| Best For |
Best For
Professionals shooting outdoors
|
The SmallHD Cine 7 is a 7-inch Full HD touchscreen monitor for professionals. It’s an all-in-one wireless monitoring or transmission solution. And it’s aimed at assistant cameras (ACs), solo shooters, and directors.
The bright, high-resolution screen is ideal for outdoor shooting. And its features include framing guides and 3D LUT overlays. The only problem is that it doesn’t support 4K recording.
The brightness and resolution give you an accurate display. And the color rendition is close to perfect.
Plus, you get a wide 160-degree viewing angle. And the touchscreen makes it easy to navigate through the menus.
There are four other versions available besides the basic Cine 7. There are various “kits” offering camera control for different models:
- Cine 7 RED RCP2 Kit (for RED KOMODO or DSMC3 cameras)
- Cine 7 Sony VENICE Kit
- Cine 7 ARRI Kit
- Cine 7 RED DSMC2 Kit
13. SmallHD Cine 5 Camera Monitor
| Brand |
Brand
SmallHD
|
| Dimensions |
Dimensions
7.1 x 4.7 x 1.3 inches / 18 x 12 x 3.3 cm
|
| Weight |
Weight
737 g
|
| Screen Size |
Screen Size
7 inches
|
| Screen Resolution |
Screen Resolution
1920 x 1200
|
| Aspect Ratio |
Aspect Ratio
16 • 9
|
| Brightness |
Brightness
1000 nits
|
| Touchscreen |
Touchscreen
Yes
|
| Ports |
Ports
HDMI (Type A) input and output, BNC (3G-SDI/HD-SDI) input and output, SDI and HDMI embedded audio, 1/8-inch (3.5 mm) headphone output, barrel (10 VDC) power input, and USB 2.0 (Micro-USB) input
|
| Best For |
Best For
Big-budget photographers and videographers
|
The SmallHD Cine 5 camera monitor boasts a large, bright, crystal-clear display. And most users will appreciate the responsive touchscreen display.
It also has various video assist tools such as professional image analysis, advanced pixel zoom, color correction, and unlimited real-time 3D LUTs.
The 1000-nit brightness and 1000:1 contrast ratio make it a good option for outdoor shoots. And the long battery life allows you to work for longer without interruptions.
The Cine 5 has in-house software for its on-camera monitors. This gives you enhancement and editing tools without buying additional software. It is an expensive external camera screen. But it’s a pro-level piece of equipment for photographers and videographers.
How to Choose an External Camera Screen
There are several factors to consider when choosing an external monitor. These include size, weight, screen resolution, and brightness. It is also good to look for a touchscreen, recording capabilities, and the number of input and output ports available.
Screen Size
This is a trade-off. A smaller camera monitor will be lighter and more portable. But a larger one will give you a better view of your pictures or log footage.
The on-camera monitors in this list are all 5 to 7 inches in size (measured diagonally). But you still need to consider other factors.
These include the size and weight of your camera and how you plan to connect them. And you also want to consider whether you generally shoot handheld, with a gimbal, or from a tripod.
Features
There are three important factors for the optical features of external monitors.
- Screen brightness: If you’re going to be shooting outdoors in bright sunlight, you want something offering at least 1000 nits and a 1000:1 contrast ratio. This way, you don’t get washed-out colors or have to dash into the shadows to see your footage!
- Resolution: This is essential. And we mean the camera monitor’s screen resolution and the footage’s resolution. Most monitors have a 1920 x 1080 (16:9) screen. But that doesn’t mean they can’t display or record 4K Ultra HD (UHD) video (a resolution of 4096 x 2160).
- Contrast
High-end DSLRs and mirrorless cameras now offer many monitoring tools to help videographers. They include zebra stripes and focus peaking. But an excellent external monitor will offer all that and more… plus the ease of use from a larger screen.
Two features that might be very important are touchscreen control and recording directly to the monitor. (The Atomos Ninja V, Blackmagic Design HDR, and the Atomos Shogun 7 can record.)
Wireless monitors have an added benefit. They allow you to walk around without being tied to the camera. Some even offer a “focus following” system. This lets you adjust the focus remotely from the camera monitor rather than the camera.
Connections
In photography, compatibility is a big issue. This is especially true when it comes to external monitors.
It’s no good buying one if it won’t “talk” to your camera. So it’s important to work out which video formats and codecs you’ll use.
You also need to know which microphones and headphones you’ll use. And you want to determine whether your external camera monitor has all the right connections.
Some monitors are specifically designed to be on-camera monitors mounted on the hot shoe of a DSLR or mirrorless camera. It’s convenient if the external camera screen has a built-in “tilt arm.” It lets you spin the monitor 360 degrees (both vertically and horizontally).
Alternatively, you can link the camera and external monitor with an HDMI cable. And most monitors also allow you to “loop” footage to other monitors or devices. This is handy if you’re working with an assistant on set.
Benefits of External Monitors
Are you still on the fence about buying an external monitor? Here are the main advantages:
- It’s easier to check composition, focus, exposure, etc.
- It offers flexible positioning, so you no longer need to stand next to the camera
- More suitable 16:9 aspect ratio than 3:2 camera LCDs
- Easier to watch log footage with other people on set
- Always visible if you’re doing a vlog with a fixed-screen camera
- Helps visualize final output using built-in look up tables (LUTs)
- Has monitoring tools that may not be available in-camera, e.g., waveforms and vectorscopes
- Better video recording quality (higher bit rates in some instances)
- Additional recording capacity
- It helps avoid camera overheating when filming for long periods
Conclusion: The Best External Camera Screen
The best external camera screen is the Atomos Ninja V 4K monitor. It provides a 5-inch, 1000-nit HDR display. And it gives you 10-bit color and a Full HD resolution. It offers great value. And all considered, it’s the best camera monitor right now.
We’ve provided plenty of camera screen options. There are options for indoor and outdoor shooting. And we have monitors for beginners, enthusiasts, and professionals. So you won’t fail to find a fantastic external camera screen that meets your needs!
