A PTZ camera is a camera capable of remote directional and zoom control. PTZ is the abbreviation for pan, tilt, and zoom, reflecting the movement options of this type of cameras.
They are sometimes also referred to as “robos”, or “robotic cameras”. This is a reference to PTZ cameras’ ability to be controlled remotely or even by automation.
This feature makes PTZ cameras popular for surveillance, video conferencing, live production, and, lately, streaming. Their automated function makes it possible for streamers to easily operate as a one man crew.
If you are considering getting a PTZ camera, we have ranked some of the best PTZ auto tracking camera for live streaming for you.
The Best PTZ Camera for Live Streaming
5. Logitech PTZ Pro 2: $674.02
Video capturing resolution: 1080p | Frame rate: 30 FPS | Field of view: 90 degrees | Zoom: 10x
This one is ideal for classrooms or even a small conference room. Its setup is fairly easy and it’s verified for some of the most popular video conference apps. You just need to plug it to your computer’s USB port through its very generous 10-foot long cable and you are good to go.
The Logitech PTZ Pro 2 includes a simple remote control. Also, Mac and PC users can control PTZ and image settings through a downloadable app.
+Affordable price
+USB output
-Remote of dubious quality
4. Panasonic AW-UE4: $895.00
Video capturing resolution: 4k | Frame rate: 30 FPS | Field of view: 111 degrees | Zoom: 4x
The Panasonic AW-UE4 is not a PTZ camera in the conventional sense. Instead, it is what some would call a VPTZ (virtual PTZ). What this means is that this camera digitally zooms and pans into portions of the captured image.
The camera’s lack of motors makes it completely silent. It also has the ability to draw power from USB or Ethernet.
+PoE (Power over Ethernet)
-Restricted image movement
-Cropped pan affects quality
3. PTZOptics 12x SDI Gen2: $1,599.00
Video capturing resolution: 1080p | Frame rate: 60 FPS | Field of view: 72.5 degrees | Zoom: 12x
The PTZOptipcs 12x SDI (also available with 20x and 30x lenses) offers a wide array of connectivity options. These include: HDMI, Ethernet, SDI, RS232 pass, RS485, and USB. It also offers great remote options with apps available for both the Android and iOS systems.
+Amazing lens quality
+Adaptable
– Resolution dials a little fiddly
2. Sony SRG-300H: $1,965.06
Video capturing resolution: 1080p | Frame rate: 60 FPS | Field of view: 65 degrees | Zoom: 30x
The Sony SRG-300H thoughtful design adds a touch of professionalism to whatever set you film on. Beneath all the aesthetics, you’ll find yourself with an amazing camera with one of Sony’s EMOR sensors coupled with its XDNR digital noise reduction, which produces great stream-friendly video.
+Excellent zoom
+Digital (VISCA) and analog remote systems
-SDI output optional
1. Sony BRC-X1000: $8,794.00
Video capturing resolution: 4k | Frame rate: 30 FPS | Field of view: 64.6 degrees | Zoom: 12x optical / up to 24x digital
This is a professional-level PTZ camera capable of capturing 4k videos at 30 FPS. It features a 1 inch back-illuminated Exmor-R CMOS sensor and a 9.3-111.6mm optical zoom. It also features HDMI, Ethernet, RS232, and RS422 output.
You can control the streaming camera with remote control and the panning, tilting, and zooming speeds are adjustable. Although this camera’s zoom isn’t as large as others its Sony’s Clear Image Zoom Technology extends it to 18x in 4k and 24x in HD.
+4k
+Very adaptable
-Less zoom than others
Conclusion
As you can see there are plenty of good options to choose from when it comes to the best PTZ camera for live streaming.
If you are looking for the most high-quality, we recommend the Sony SRG-300H or Sony BRC-X1000, depending on whether you are looking for HD or 4k. However, it is only you who can decide which camera better suits your needs and finances!
