If you are a professional photographer or a videographer, you will understand the importance of capturing the perfect shots. From focusing properly on the object of interest to getting the correct aspect ratio, you need to put in serious effort to capture the perfect shot. With the small screen of most cameras, it is extremely difficult to get the perfect frame: that is where the right camera field monitor is important. Camera field monitors are extra screens that can be attached to cameras. They have the right features to deliver fuller view and a more precise focus on subjects.
In this article, we will look at the top ten best field monitors you can buy right now and provide more information you will need to make the right choice right here.
Top 10 Best Camera Field Monitors
1. Feelworld T7
Feelworld is one of the top manufacturers of camera field monitors and other accessories. This is unarguably one of their best camera field monitors. Due to the good design and features of the monitor, users can be sure of great shooting experience and results on a consistent basis. Weighing just 320g, it is a lightweight and convenient camera monitor.
The Feelworld T7 7 inch has a screen size of 7″ and offers full HD 1920×1200 high resolution. Other impressive features include precise color, 1600 wide viewing angle that enables the user to have a clear view of subjects, brightness of 450cd/m2, contrast ratio of 1200:1, and backlight LED that all helps the user to shoot very well at any place. Also has Built-in Video/Audio/HDMI input format. The package comes with a number of accessories including 1x sunshade, 1x Hot Shoe Mount, 1x mini HDMI cable, 1x F970 Battery Plate, and 1x Operational Manual.
2. ESDDI F5
ESDDI is well known for its high-quality standard photography accessories. This particular camera field monitor has a durable construction and is highly rated by users. Though this device only weighs 142g, it can transform your shooting experience in any kind of difficult environment. It is also very convenient to use, thanks to the simple design.
Like other top quality camera field monitors, the ESDDI F5 5 Inch monitor has an ultra HD resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. This helps to make sure that users obtain excellent picture quality at all times. Also equipped with input and output HDMI, this is a very helpful camera accessory. It has a number of advanced functional features such as histogram, image freeze, safe frames, focus assists, zoom etc. The package comes with a NP-F550 7.4V 2200mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery pack, charging station, and USB charger.
3. Feelworld FW759
This is the second Feelworld camera field monitor in this guide. It is an excellent camera accessory that will help both mid-level and expert photographers obtain the best possible images. It will also make their shooting easier. Asides from its good design, this camera monitor features modern and advanced technology that will aid in making shooting easier and more effective. With the upgrade from HD to FHD or to UHD 4K resolution, users will get the best experience while shooting. It weighs just 300g, making it a convenient camera accessory.
With Feelworld FW759 7 IPS the operator is rest assured of getting the best image quality. In terms of its resolution, it offers 1280×800 pixels, which is just perfect. It has a screen size of 7″ IPS, Aspect Ratio of 16:10, Contrast Ratio of 800:1 and a Backlight LED. It has an 1X HDMI, 1X VIDEO, 1X OSD controller input and also support HDMI.
4. SmallHD 502
This device is one of the lightest 5-inch, 1080p full HD field monitor you will find on the market. In spite of the small size, it has standard features that will improve your photography experience. Judging from what verified buyers and users are saying, you are sure to get great image quality when shooting with this field monitor. It is a lightweight camera field monitor that is super-easy to use.
The SmallHD 502 On-Camera Monitor offers full HD 1920 x 1080 high resolution, screen size of 5 Inch, and an LCD panel. With a Pixel density (PPI) of 441, Active area of 5.0 in, color depth of 24 Bit (8bpc), and full viewing angle of 179-degrees, you are sure of getting everything right with your shots. It also has adjustable backlight with LED backlight. This device also supports input and output HDMI.
5. Atomos Ninja Flame
The Atomos Ninja flame 7″ is a top quality camera field monitor that enhances the shooting effect and tends to make the image perfect. This device is the best for mirrorless cameras that has a log output and an edge over the HDMI. This device enables the operator to have a specific details of the camera log that produces the natural color of the image taken. Weighing just 3.7 lbs, it is a very convenient camera accessory.
The Atomos Ninja Flame 7″ Recording Monitor features 1920×120 high HD resolution, 7.1″ PPI display size, aspect ratio of 16:9 native, pulldown conversion of 2:2. It also features output and input HDMI. This camera field monitor supports an ultra-high-definition cameras Logs that enables it to deliver high, better and perfect displays of HDR footages. It will also detect bright outdoor scenes because of its high bright SDR mode. It is difficult for the device to run out of power, because it has a swappable battery component that switches to the second battery when power gets exhausted.
6. Lilliput HD70HP
Lilliput HD70hp 7″ is one of the best recommended field monitor you can grab today. It is well-built and has all the features you will need to shoot the best photographs. Using this monitor, you will obtain crystal clear views that will help you take the best shots. It weighs just 542g/ 582g (with cover), allowing the user to handle the camera conveniently for the best shooting experience.
This device has a panel size of 7″ LED backlit, with a physical resolution of 800x480p that can also support up to 1920x1080P. The contrast ratio is 500:1 whereas the viewing angle is 1400/1200(H/V). With brightness of 450cd/m2, you will obtain clear detailed image of the subject. It supports 1 HDMI, 2 video, 1 audio inputs. This LCD field monitor also supports full HD, HD and SD. It is powered by a 2200mA/ 7.4 Li-ion battery that can last for several hours.
7. Marshall V-LCD50
This is a camera monitor device that has a high performance efficiency that is usually mounted to the top of a video DSLR or on the top of a camcorder with the aid of a shoe mount adapter. It gives a comprehensive sharp and bright image quality. Weighing just 250g, it is a lightweight camera field monitor that will work with all sizes of camera. It is also very convenient to use.
The Marshall Electronics V-LCD50-HIS Camera monitor offers versatile viewing angles and ranges, enhancing the photography experience in all kinds of environments. The size of the screen is 5″ diagonal, and it offers a resolution of 800x480P. With brightness of 300 cd/m2 and contrast ratio of 600:1, shooting with this camera field monitor makes things a lot more fun for the experienced photographer. It supports HDMI input.
8. SmallHD Focus
This is a professional grade camera field monitor that can be used with mirrorless or DSLR camera. It is a beautifully designed camera field monitor that will help you get the top quality images expected of professional photographers. It has a perfectly compact design and is lightweight (106g), making it a convenient camera accessory. The Daylight Viewable 5-inch Touchscreen is another wonderful feature you will love about this camera monitor.
While Daylight visibility is one of the most notable features of this camera field monitor, there are several other reasons to grab it. In addition to helping you take the right images, the monitor can conveniently power your mirroless or DSLR camera. Like other Focus monitors, it comes with a cold shoe mounted tilt arm that will let the user position the camera as required and view the display with more convenience. The resolution is impressive at 1280×720 IPS. Other impressive features include waveform, false color, focus assist, 3D LUTs, Pixel Zoom and more.
9. BESTVIEW S7
This is a professional camera field monitor that will greatly enhance your shooting experience. It is well-built and has the features to enhance your shooting experience and make your shots a lot better. It is compatible with almost all professional camera camcorders on the market and weighs just 400g. It is easy to mount on any camera and will be very convenient to use on all kinds of projects.
On the technical side, the BESTVIEW S7 4K is a dream camera field monitor. The screen size is 7-inches and offers a high resolution of 1920*1200. With a brightness of 450CD/M2, aspect ratio of 1100:1, and wide viewing angle, the images you will get from this monitor will always be great. It also uses hard screen technology and LED backlight of 50,000 hours.
10. Viltrox DC-70
This is another well-built camera field monitor that is compatible with different cameras including Sony, Canon, and Nikon DSLR camera camcorders. It is also compatible with mirrorless and digital HD camcorders with HDMI/AV ports. Weighing just 475g, the monitor is also very convenient to work with. Asides from being portable, it offers flexibility and high definition picture quality.
The Viltrox DC-70 features a 7-inch LCD screen that provides resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels for best image quality. The wide viewing angle LCD panel will help photo enthusiasts of any level to shoot high-quality HD video footage. It has two HDMI jacks, one AV jack, DC IN, and USB for input. You also have two options when it comes to powering the monitor: a power adapter or rechargeable NP-FM500H/QM71D/QM91D battery (not included). Included in the package are 1 x monitor with sun shield, 2 x hotshoe adapters, 1 x HDMI cable, 1 x carrying bag, and user manual (English & Chinese).
Buying Guide
Using camera field monitors will greatly improve the end product of any photography. The monitors also make it possible to take high quality photos and video footages with ease. It is important, however, to buy the best monitors since their quality will meaningfully influence the quality of shots you will take. Here, we will discuss how you can buy the best from the multitude of available options.
Factors to consider when choosing camera field monitors
If you are ready to buy a camera field monitor, here are the most important factors to consider:
Screen Resolution
The resolution is the first thing you need to check in a camera field monitor. Resolution is super important for graphics and photos, so you should prioritize it. The commonest and best resolution for them is 1920 x 1080, also referred to as 1080P.
Brightness
Brightness is expressed in cd/m2. The higher the number, the better the monitor is. You can adjust the brightness to meet varying shooting needs.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of camera field monitors matter a lot. Compact and lightweight design is desirable. Lightweight monitors are not only portable but convenient to use too.
Advanced Features
You need to consider such other features as signal format, touchscreen, viewing angle, contrast ratio and others too. They all contribute to the experience you will get using the monitor.
Budget
Your budget will also determine the quality of camera field monitor you can buy. While it is important to buy top quality monitors, you don’t need to break the bank for that. There are affordable ones to buy if you are on a budget.
Frequently asked questions about camera field monitors
Do I Really Need Field Monitors To Take Great Shots?
While it is possible to take great shots without camera field monitors, your chances of getting better shots are better with them. Under certain circumstances, they are absolutely necessary.
What Is The Role Of The Camera Field Monitors?
The camera field monitor replicates the picture being recorded by the camera on a larger display. It helps the photographer to see how the final images or footages will appear.
Do Field Monitors Drain Camera Battery?
Not really. Field monitors are mostly battery powered or powered directly through adapters. There are some models that will even power your camera.
Are Camera Field Monitors Also Needed For Still Photos?
Though they are most helpful in video recording, camera field monitors can also be used for still photography under certain circumstances.
What Are The Most Important Things To Look Out For In A Camera Field Monitor?
The most important things to look out for in a camera field monitor include screen size, resolution, brightness, input options, and overall weight.
Conclusion
We have reviewed the best camera field monitors you can get on the market. We have also discussed some important considerations you need to make before picking one and answered pertinent questions. We sincerely hope this detailed guide will help you buy the perfect camera field monitor for you.