The best PTZ camera will improve the quality of your video production, web conferencing, and streaming.
PTZ cameras come with motorized stands that can be operated remotely, automatically using artificial intelligence, or both. It’s not surprising that they have experienced a rise in popularity. A camera that can follow you can be beneficial in almost any situation where a webcam can be useful, including Zoom calls with presentations and streaming content on social media, especially if you like to use the entire space.
In this blog post, you will get to know about the best PTZ cameras available in the market.
10 Best PTZ cameras
1. Sony SRG300H
The Sony SRG300H is a high-performance surveillance camera designed to meet the demands of various security applications. Equipped with a 1/2.8″ Exmor CMOS sensor, this camera delivers exceptional image quality with low light capabilities, boasting a remarkable sensitivity of 1.4 lux at 50IRE, f/1.6, and 30 frames per second.
Pros:
- Classy style
- Lengthy throw zoom
- Analog and Digital (VISCA) remote control systems
Cons:
SDI output is an add-on option (300SE)
The SRG300H offers seamless remote control with its pan, tilt, and zoom functions, enabling users to precisely adjust the camera’s view from a distance. Its impressive 30x optical zoom ensures that no detail goes unnoticed, making it ideal for scenarios requiring close monitoring of specific areas or subjects. With its infrared connectivity technology, the SRG300H can operate effectively in low-light conditions, and it is an excellent choice for surveillance applications where night-time visibility is critical.
The Sony SRG300H is a reliable and feature-rich security camera designed to enhance surveillance and monitoring solutions. Its brand reputation, coupled with the advanced technology of the Exmor CMOS sensor, positions it as a versatile choice for a variety of surveillance scenarios. The camera’s remote pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities provide flexibility in adjusting the viewing angle, while its 30x optical zoom allows for close-up inspection of distant subjects. This camera’s exceptional low-light performance, with a sensitivity of 1.4 lux, makes it suitable for applications where illumination is limited. Whether you need to monitor indoor or outdoor areas, the Sony SRG300H offers the quality and functionality necessary to meet your surveillance requirements.
2. Panasonic AW-Ue70
The Panasonic AW-UE70KPJ is a versatile and feature-rich security camera tailored to meet the specific demands of surveillance applications. This camera’s advanced specifications include a 1/2.3″ Type MOS sensor, providing exceptional image quality and performance. The AW-UE70KPJ boasts 4K UHD/HD capture capabilities, ensuring that even the finest details are captured in high resolution.
Pros:
- Maximum lens of a PTZ camera
- Integrated web browser management system
- Able to serve as a webcam
Cons:
- IP streaming is limited to 1080P
- Most Panasonic software are incompatible with Mac system
Equipped with PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) technology with 20x optical zoom, this camera offers precise control over the field of view, making it perfect for scenarios that require close monitoring or detailed examination of subjects. What sets the AW-UE70KPJ apart is its portability, allowing for flexible deployment in various locations. Additionally, this camera can operate in low-light conditions with its night vision feature, providing round-the-clock surveillance capabilities. It’s a wired camera, and it can be powered via PoE+ for convenient installation and setup. Furthermore, it supports UHD output over HDMI, USB, and IP, making it compatible with a range of devices and systems, ensuring seamless integration into your surveillance setup.
The Panasonic AW-UE70KPJ is a top-tier choice for security applications, offering an array of impressive features. With its high-quality 4K UHD/HD capture, the camera guarantees crisp and detailed video footage, making it ideal for scenarios where image clarity is paramount. The 20x optical zoom, coupled with PTZ technology, provides users with the flexibility to precisely adjust the camera’s view, ensuring that no detail goes unnoticed.
Whether monitoring indoor or outdoor environments, the AW-UE70KPJ is ready to deliver, thanks to its night vision capability that ensures visibility in low-light conditions. This wired camera can be conveniently powered via PoE+, simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter. Its compatibility with UHD output over HDMI, USB, and IP adds versatility to its connectivity options, ensuring seamless integration into your security system. The Panasonic AW-UE70KPJ stands out as a portable and adaptable solution for all your surveillance needs.
3. PTZOptics 12X-SDI 2.12MP
The PTZOptics 12X-SDI 2.12MP camera is a high-definition video solution designed for clear and detailed video capture. With its lossless 12X optical zoom, this camera allows you to zoom in on subjects, providing the ability to see and interact with your team with remarkable clarity. It delivers crystal clear 1080p video quality, ensuring that every detail is vividly captured.
Pros:
- Highly adaptable
- Superior lens quality
- Options for comprehensively adjusting image quality
Cons:
- Uncomfortably small resolution dial
The PTZOptics 12X-SDI offers maximum flexibility in video output, as it can simultaneously send out 1080p video via HDMI, 3G-SDI, and h.264 or H.265 IP Streaming. The 3G-SDI connectivity is particularly useful for transmitting 1080p video over long distances, making it a preferred choice for scenarios that require extended cabling. Furthermore, the camera’s wide field of view, combined with the ability to zoom down to a narrow 6.9-degree angle, ensures versatile coverage and precise focus on subjects. For seamless integration into larger control systems, the PTZOptics camera includes in/out RS-232 ports and RS-485, utilizing VISCA commands. This feature enables compatibility with control systems such as Crestron and Extron, enhancing its adaptability and usability in professional settings.
The PTZOptics 12X-SDI 2.12MP camera is a top-tier solution for capturing high-definition video with ease and versatility. Its 12X optical zoom and 1080p resolution provide exceptional video quality, allowing you to engage with your team or subjects in a detailed and interactive manner. The camera’s multi-output capability, supporting HDMI, 3G-SDI, and IP streaming, ensures maximum flexibility in connecting to various devices and systems. Thanks to its 3G-SDI connectivity, it is well-suited for long-distance video transmission.
The wide field of view, complemented by precise zoom capabilities, further enhances its versatility and adaptability to different scenarios. Lastly, the integration-friendly design, featuring RS-232 and RS-485 ports using VISCA commands, makes it an excellent choice for professional setups, ensuring compatibility with larger control systems like Crestron and Extron. The PTZOptics 12X-SDI is a reliable and feature-rich camera for high-quality video capture and seamless system integration.
4. OBSBOT Tiny 2
The OBSBOT Tiny 2 is a groundbreaking webcam that ushers in a new era of video conferencing and content creation. It features a 1/1.5″ CMOS Sensor, the largest and most advanced sensor in the webcam industry. This sensor dramatically improves image quality and low-light sensitivity, ensuring you look your best even in dark environments.
Pros:
- Mounted magnetically
- USB type-c works with macbooks.
- Electricity used from a usb link
Cons:
- The use of hand gestures requires practice.
The Tiny 2’s AI tracking capabilities have been significantly upgraded, offering superior tracking performance with a reaction speed that surpasses 99% of its competitors. With four auto-tracking modes, including upper body, close-up, hand tracking, and zone tracking, it caters to a wide range of user needs. Additionally, the Tiny 2 introduces groundbreaking voice and gesture control, allowing you to control the camera with simple voice commands like “Hi, TINY” or “Track Me.” Its gesture control is now more responsive, making it even more user-friendly.
One of the standout features of the OBSBOT Tiny 2 is its industry-leading 0.3-second all-pixel autofocus, capturing your image four times faster than other webcams. It also offers customization options, including beauty mode, desktop mode, whiteboard mode, portrait mode, and group mode, making it suitable for various scenarios such as meetings, presentations, live streaming, and teaching. For camera enthusiasts, the Tiny 2 supports SDK, OSC, Stream Deck, and Global Hotkey functions, allowing you to create a personalized webcam experience.
This versatile 4K PTZ camera is compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs, laptops, Macs, tablets, and is ideal for streaming, video calling, conferences on platforms like Skype, Zoom, FaceTime, Teams, and TikTok. Please note that due to its powerful performance, the Tiny 2 may generate heat during use, which is a normal phenomenon and will not affect the camera’s functionality.
5. Sony FR7
The Sony FR7 camera features a Sony E lens mount, providing compatibility with a wide range of Sony E-mount lenses for versatile shooting options. It is equipped with a CMOS sensor, which offers excellent image quality, and the sensor boasts an actual resolution of 12.9 megapixels with an effective resolution of 10.3 megapixels.
Pros:
- Potentially excellent for Sony E-mount users.
- Sync connector using TC.
- SD or Dual CFexpress A cards.
- 4K at up to 120 fps is supported by 12G SDI.
Cons:
- Possibility of high costs.
- Only a small number of lenses provides powered zoom.
This sensor configuration ensures high-quality still images and video recording. The camera is designed with mounting options in mind, featuring two 1/4″-20 female threads for tripod attachment, enabling stable and flexible positioning during shooting. In terms of its physical dimensions, the Sony FR7 measures 11.4 x 9.2 x 8.9 inches (289 x 233 x 227 mm) without protrusions, making it a compact and portable choice for a variety of photography and videography applications.
The Sony FR7 camera is a versatile and compact imaging device with features that make it suitable for different shooting scenarios. Its Sony E lens mount offers compatibility with a range of lenses, while the CMOS sensor ensures high-quality image and video capture.
The inclusion of dual 1/4″-20 female threads for tripod mounting enhances stability and positioning options, and the camera’s compact dimensions, measuring 11.4 x 9.2 x 8.9 inches (289 x 233 x 227 mm) without protrusions, make it a practical choice for photographers and videographers seeking a portable solution for their creative needs.
6. Logitech PTZ
The Logitech PTZ camera is an excellent choice for professional video applications, including conference rooms, training environments, large events, and more. It excels in delivering outstanding image quality, boasting brilliantly sharp image resolution, exceptional optical accuracy, and vivid color reproduction. The camera features enhanced pan, tilt, and zoom motor performance, resulting in smoother transitions between preset positions.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- USB capability
Cons:
- Unreliable remote control
- Autofocus might be annoying.
With a wide field of view, it ensures that everyone in the frame is clearly visible. The camera’s zoom capabilities allow you to easily switch between wide shots and close-ups, making it perfect for capturing objects, whiteboard content, and fine details. Moreover, its advanced camera technology optimizes bandwidth usage by processing video within the PTZ camera itself. This innovation results in a smoother video stream, particularly beneficial in applications like Microsoft Skype for Business, where high-quality video is essential for effective communication.
The Logitech PTZ camera is a versatile and reliable solution for professional video applications. Its exceptional image quality, pan/tilt/zoom capabilities, and advanced camera technology set it apart as an ideal choice for conference rooms, training environments, large events, and more. Whether you need to capture wide shots or focus on intricate details, this camera delivers exceptional optical accuracy and outstanding color reproduction. With bandwidth optimization, it ensures a smooth video stream, enhancing the quality of video conferences and presentations, particularly when using platforms like Microsoft Skype for Business.
The Logitech PTZ camera offers the performance and features required for a wide range of professional video applications, making it a valuable asset for businesses and organizations.
7. DataVideo PTC-140
The DataVideo PTC-140 is a feature-packed PTZ camera designed to meet the needs of professional video production and live streaming applications. This camera offers both HD and SD-SDI as well as HDMI outputs for versatile connectivity options. It comes in a sleek black color and includes an IR remote controller, ceiling mount brackets (A and B), and all the necessary hardware for secure installation.
Pros:
- Helpful in dim lighting.
- Provide the option for dual streaming.
- Best features at reasonable price.
Cons:
- Soft digital zoom
The camera operates on a DC 12V power supply and includes a power cord for your convenience. With a comprehensive 3-year limited warranty (1 year + 2 years with registration), it provides peace of mind to users.
The DataVideo PTC-140 excels in providing stunning Full HD resolution for exceptional video quality. Its impressive 20x optical zoom and additional 10x digital zoom allow you to capture clear and detailed shots, even from a distance. The camera is equipped with advanced 2D/3D noise reduction functions to ensure clean and sharp images.
Moreover, it supports H.264/H.265 video compression, making it well-suited for live streaming applications, where efficient video encoding is essential. Whether you’re in the world of professional video production or live streaming, the DataVideo PTC-140 offers the features and quality you need to capture and broadcast content with excellence.
8. Canon CR-N300
The Canon CR-N300 is a high-performance PTZ camera that delivers stunning video quality for professional applications. Equipped with a 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor and a DIGIC DV 6 image processor, this camera provides exceptional 4K 30p and Full HD 60p video output. Its Hybrid AF ensures fast, reliable, and precise auto-focus, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.
Pros:
- 4K UHD capture.
- Reduced format for simpler installation.
- AF hybrid.
- A PoE LAN.
Cons:
- The Canon RCI controller is reserved to Canon.
- Unsuitable for 4K broadcast is 3G SDI.
The camera features a 29.3mm lens with 20x optical zoom and a 65.6° wide horizontal viewing angle, coupled with optical image stabilization, ideal for capturing expansive indoor and outdoor events. Aspheric lens elements minimize aberrations over the entire zoom range, ensuring consistently high image quality. The CR-N300 is also equipped with a responsive PT (Pan, Tilt) drive mechanism, offering variable incremental Pan speed from .2° to 300°/sec and Tilt speed from .2° to 170°/sec for smooth and precise PT movement. It includes four scene modes: Portrait, Sports, Low Light, and Spotlight, which allow for creative and effective video capture, including sharp focus, blurred background effects, fast-moving sporting events, low-light situations, and stage performances.
The camera supports multiple professional video production interfaces, such as USB, IP via RJ-45, SDI, and HDMI, with IP multi-stream video distribution and RTMP streaming capabilities. It also supports various video production interface protocols, including NDI|HX2, Standard, and Canon SX. The CR-N300 offers multi-connection support with IP and HDMI outputs for capturing UHD 4K at 30p or Full HD at 59.94p, SDI for capturing high-quality, 59.94p Full HD video, and USB for full HD web conferencing. It includes a 3.5mm mini jack mic terminal and a serial RS-422 terminal for connecting third-party controllers.
Additionally, it can be used as a powerful PTZ webcam with Canon’s Webcam Driver, offering automatic camera detection, up to 4K 30P video output, embedded audio (AAC-LC), and support for up to 5 cameras, making it an ideal choice for video conferences, lectures, and various other network-based applications. The Canon CR-N300 is a versatile and high-quality PTZ camera designed for professional video production and streaming, offering advanced features and stunning image quality.
9. Sony BRC-X1000
The Sony BRC-X1000 is a high-performance PTZ camera designed for professional video production applications. At its core, it features Sony’s impressive 1.0 type back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor and a powerful image processing engine. This combination results in an outstanding sensitivity of 1.7 lux minimum illumination, ensuring high-quality imaging even in low-light conditions.
Pros:
- Offers video resolution in 4K
- A big 1-inch sensor.
Cons:
- Zoom range is not as wide as others
The camera excels at capturing uncompromised broadcast-quality color pictures in stunning 4K resolution at 30p, offering four times the pixel count of Full HD. It also provides excellent low-light sensitivity, making it ideal for a wide range of video production scenarios. Furthermore, the BRC-X1000 is capable of recording in Full HD at 60p, making it a versatile choice for capturing fast-moving sports action with precision and clarity.
The Sony BRC-X1000 is equipped with advanced features that enhance its usability and performance. It offers precise Pan, Tilt, and Zoom control, making it easy to re-frame shots or track moving subjects with smooth, near-silent remote control of these functions.
The camera provides low-speed zoom and a slow pan/tilt mode, ensuring judder-free and precise camera movements. The PTZ Trace Memory feature allows you to memorize and recall a sequence of camera movements, eliminating the need for a cameraman and reducing production costs. Additionally, the PTZ Motion Sync feature blends separate pan, tilt, and zoom movements seamlessly, resulting in professional-looking transitions.
With a high-speed 30p HD mode, the Sony BRC-X1000 excels at capturing fast-paced footage, making it an excellent choice for live sports coverage and other dynamic video production needs. The camera’s advanced sensor, 4K capabilities, and versatile PTZ functions make it a valuable asset for professionals in the video production industry.
10. OBSBOT Me
The OBSBOT Me is an innovative smart AI camera tracking tripod that sets new standards for auto tracking. Powered by an advanced neural network, it achieves exceptional AI tracking capabilities.
With a brush-less motor, OBSBOT Me offers a swift starting speed, ensuring that you’re always in the frame without any concerns about being out of the picture. Say goodbye to the hassle of constantly adjusting the camera, as OBSBOT Me delivers an incredibly convenient experience.
Pros:
- Utilize the quality of your phone’s camera.
- No app is needed
- Perfect for B-roll on vlogs
Cons:
- Quite difficult to use the resolution dial.
- unable to tilt.
It introduces gesture control and auto framing, allowing you to effortlessly keep yourself in the frame. A simple hand gesture is all it takes to have the camera recognize you and smoothly follow your movements, maintaining you at the center of the video frame with stability and precision.
What sets OBSBOT Me apart is its independence from additional apps or Bluetooth connections. Thanks to its built-in wide-angle camera and AI image processor, OBSBOT Me handles all tracking algorithms on its own, eliminating the need for extra apps or Bluetooth connections. You have the freedom to use any app you prefer while OBSBOT Me takes care of the tracking. Notably, the camera attached to OBSBOT Me is a sensing camera and doesn’t record anything, ensuring your privacy.
The camera offers adjustable shooting angles, facilitated by a universal joint and rotatable holder, allowing you to capture your life from the best perspective. With a 120° wide-angle sensing area, it provides an extensive visible area, giving you the freedom to move naturally.
The foldable and extendable design of OBSBOT Me makes it highly portable, fitting effortlessly in your pocket at 68 x 58 x 139mm. It’s always ready to track and capture every moment of your dynamic life. Furthermore, it features a 1/4″ standard interface that enables you to mount it on a tripod and adjust its height, ensuring you can easily capture the results you desire. OBSBOT Me is a versatile and user-friendly camera accessory that enhances your video shooting and tracking experience, offering a new level of convenience and performance.
