Buyers’ Guide: PTZ cameras

Since their introduction, pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras have revolutionised the media industry, becoming essential for producing reality TV shows, broadcasting live sports and news and capturing concerts. They have also played a key role in the gaming and livestreaming realm.

Popular for their versatility, cost-effectiveness over multiple fixed cameras and superior coverage, they offer flexibility, high-quality imaging (often 4K) and auto tracking, reducing equipment needs and human intervention.

Whether you’re seeking a high-end PTZ for professional remote productions or broadcast operations, or you want a more accessible option for amateur live streaming, there are a variety of models tailored to different needs. Below is a guide of some of the best options on the market.

 

Sony ILME-FR7

The FR7 provides smooth pan, tilt and zoom control. Focal length and shallow depth-of-field provide creative freedom and combine with remote PTZ control capability to open a new world of creative potential. The camera is an ideal choice for high-end live events, studio productions and cinematic applications.

Key Features:

• Cinema Line features
• Interchangeable E-mount lenses
• Full-frame image sensor

Panasonic AW-UE150A 

The AW-UE150A 4K PTZ camera has been designed to meet the needs of professional broadcasters and content creators, delivering advanced video quality, operability and efficiency in studio-based video productions. Its enhanced Optical Image Stabiliser minimises image shake during pan and tilt operations.

Key Features:

• Built-in auto tracking
• Optical low-pass filter
• High-sensitivity 1.0-type sensor supports 4K/60p recording

PTZOptics Move4K 

The Move 4K is PTZOptics’ latest PTZ camera, designed with intelligent auto tracking to streamline modern video production workflows. With strong low-light performance, PoE+ support and an integrated tally light, the Move 4K is built for reliable, professional use. Move 4K cameras can be controlled remotely from anywhere in the world using a variety of tools.

Key Features:

• Features SDI, HDMI, USB, and IP output
• Compatible with a wide range of software solutions
• Up to 4K resolution at 60fps

Birddog X1 Ultra 

The X1 and X1 Ultra are Birddog PTZ cameras designed for versatile, high-quality content creation and offer smooth motion, 4K video and advanced features including AI-powered framing, NDI HX3 integration, built-in Wi-Fi, an E-Ink display for status info and Halo Tally for clear on-air indication.

Key Features:

• AI tracking technology
• X1 and X1 Ultra are the world’s first PTZ cameras featuring an NDI HX Decoder
• E-Ink display

Canon CR-N400

The Canon CR-N400 4K boasts professional-quality performance into a compact black design. It delivers smooth 4K/60p HDR video, offers flexible connectivity including 12G-SDI and dual XLR inputs and features a powerful 40x zoom in Full HD. With auto tracking and colour-matching support, it’s a great fit for studios and live productions.

Key Features:

• Hybrid autofocus
• 4K/60p image quality
• Flexible connectivity

Yealink UVC86 

The Yealink UVC86 is a 4K dual-eye tracking camera that is designed for medium to large meeting rooms and delivers a clear and comprehensive view of every participant and detail. The camera boosts your meeting experience by capturing moments with excellent precision and clarity. Also featuring a wide 90° field of view and smooth mechanical pan and tilt, the UVC86 can be easily controlled via remote or Yealink camera.

Key Features:

• AI-driven features including presenter tracking, speaker tracking, auto framing, and picture-in-picture
• Built-in dual 4K camera
• Offers flexible installation options

Logitech PTZ Pro 2 

The PTZ Pro 2 is the ideal solution for classrooms, auditoriums and large meeting rooms. The camera delivers premium optics and life-like video to create the experience of sitting together in the same room, even if you are a thousand miles away. At half the price of comparable models, the PTZ Pro 2 is also an affordable choice for those with a smaller budget.

Key Features:

• USB plug-and-play connectivity makes the PTZ Pro 2 a breeze to deploy and use
• Multiple mounting options
• Can be operated from a remote location with downloadable software

Sony BRC-AM7 

The Sony BRC-AM7 is a compact and lightweight 4K/60p PTZ camera featuring built-in AI for auto framing and subject tracking, using human pose, face and other data for smooth, autonomous operation. It is ideal for live production, events and virtual sets where it integrates seamlessly with Sony’s ecosystem.

Key Features

• Enhanced functions for VR/AR systems
• Exmor RS image sensor and Bionz XR processing engine
• Built-in variable ND filter