Elgato Prompter XL review: large, durable, perfect for professionals
In the evolving landscape of content creation, having the right tools can significantly elevate the quality of production. The Elgato Prompter XL stands out as an essential device for creators seeking a professional teleprompter solution that doesn’t require a hefty investment in traditional broadcasting equipment. With its innovative features and robust design, it's engineered to meet the demands of professionals.
Elgato has carved a niche for itself by making studio-grade tools accessible for home users and small businesses. Following the success of the original Prompter, the Prompter XL emerges as a formidable upgrade, specifically designed for those using DSLR, mirrorless, and studio cameras. This larger model caters to a variety of creators, from YouTubers to corporate presenters, who require enhanced screen space and versatility during shoots.
Enhanced design for professional use
The Elgato Prompter XL boasts a significant upgrade in screen size and sturdiness. The device features a 15.6-inch Full HD display that outputs an impressive 600 nits of brightness, ensuring readability from distances of up to 15 feet. This is particularly beneficial during large presentations or shoots where the distance between the speaker and the camera can be substantial.
Moreover, the screen is designed to detach magnetically, simplifying the cleaning process—a crucial feature for busy professionals. Its aluminum frame can accommodate lenses up to 22 centimeters long, providing compatibility with a wide range of camera setups. This robust construction enhances stability, making it ideal for various shooting conditions.
Digital and physical applications
The Prompter XL is versatile in its mountability; it can be affixed to either a tripod or a C-stand, ensuring stability during use. Additionally, it includes a cold-shoe rail for attaching accessories such as microphones or lights. Instead of relying on outdated mobile apps, the Prompter connects through Elgato's advanced Camera Hub software, streamlining the user experience.
One of the standout features of the Prompter XL is its live script editing and scrolling capability. The Voice Sync feature allows the prompter to follow the user’s speech dynamically, making presentations feel more natural. Furthermore, the screen can double as a secondary monitor, enabling users to display Twitch chat or video feeds, which is essential for interactive streaming.
- Mountable on tripods or C-stands for flexibility.
- Cold-shoe rail for accessories enhances functionality.
- Live editing and scrolling capabilities for seamless presentations.
- Voice Sync feature for dynamic script following.
- Can serve as a secondary monitor for additional content.
iPhone and Mac compatibility
The Prompter XL is designed to integrate seamlessly into a variety of workflows, from YouTube content creation to corporate presentations. It connects via a single USB-C cable, which simplifies setup by carrying both power and data. The software is compatible with macOS, Windows, and Android platforms, eliminating the need for additional capture cards or external power sources.
However, it's important to note that according to Elgato's documentation, the Prompter XL does not support iPhones or iPads as display sources. Users can still mount an iPhone using the provided backplate or a custom 3D-printed holder, but this setup is limited to mechanical support and does not integrate with the display functionality.
For Mac users, the integration of the Prompter XL is particularly robust. It works seamlessly with Elgato's Camera Hub software on macOS, facilitating live script editing, Voice Sync, and screen management on Apple Silicon Macs. This compatibility extends to utilizing DisplayLink technology, allowing the Prompter to function as both a teleprompter and a secondary display, which is crucial for maintaining eye contact during recordings or presentations.
Pricing and availability
Elgato has positioned the Prompter XL as a premium tool, making it clear that this is not a budget option but rather a serious investment for professionals who rely on camera work. Priced at $599.99 in the U.S., it comes with a complimentary Cam Link 4K for a limited time, enhancing its value for creators looking to elevate their production quality without venturing into enterprise-grade prices.
Available directly through Elgato and authorized retailers, the Prompter XL appeals to those who seek a larger, cleaner teleprompter that bridges the gap between amateur gear and professional studio hardware. It’s designed for creators who want to enhance their workflows and produce high-quality content efficiently.
For a closer look at what the Prompter XL can offer, check out this insightful video that showcases its capabilities:
In conclusion, the Elgato Prompter XL represents a significant leap forward in teleprompter technology, making it a vital tool for content creators aiming to achieve professional results. With its combination of advanced features, sturdy design, and compatibility across multiple platforms, it meets the needs of today’s diverse creators.
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