3 Best PTZ Cameras in 2023

PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras are built with mechanical pieces that enable them to pan from left to right, tilt up and down and zoom in and out, all remotely.

In the film & TV industry, PTZ cameras can be used for a wide range of different projects, such as:

• Reality shows
• Prank shows
• Hidden camera shows
• Live sports
• Live concerts
• & much more

For example, using them for a prank show allows you to control multiple cameras without the subject knowing they’re being filmed.

PTZ cameras became even more popular throughout the COVID-19 pandemic as it allowed filmmakers to control cameras remotely.

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Panasonic AW-UE70

The Panasonic AW-UE70 is the film & TV industry’s first integrated 4K PTZ camera and has been our go-to PTZ camera for multiple years. Here’s why:

• 4K video quality
• 20x optical zoom
• High Dynamic Range (HDR) function
• Supports PoE (Power over Ethernet)
• Multiple camera control via a controller

These are just a few of the many reasons why we have used these cameras for a long period of time.

The AW-UE70 offers UHD 4K resolution with a frame rate of 29.97p/25p using an HDMI connection. It has the ability to stream 4K content over IP and can record 4K footage directly within the camera.

As stated above, you can control multiple (up to 4) cameras via a remote controller. We use the Panasonic AW-RP50 and it’s great.

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Sony FR7

The newest addition to Sony’s PTZ lineup is the FR7. Essentially, it’s a Sony FX6 in a PTZ camera body.

The FR7 is the industry’s first full-frame, interchangeable lens PTZ camera.

This is a game-changer for those who are looking for a PTZ camera with the capabilities of a cinema camera, such as the FX6.

The camera can be controlled via a mobile app or with their RM-IP500 remote controller.

It also offers a back-illuminated 4K full-frame CMOS sensor, similarly to the FX6.

Featuring 15mm rods for mountable accessories, we believe the FR7 has completely changed the game when it comes to PTZ cameras.

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Canon CR-N300

The CR-N300 features a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with 4K UHD resolution and a 20x optical zoom.

The camera uses a DIGIC DV6 processor, which enables improved low-light performance up to ISO 6400. This will be great if you’re filming a live concert and need reduced noise from your picture.

Featuring a firmware update later this year, the camera will be able to follow a subject's face (auto tracking) and repeat pan, tilt and zoom movements consistently (auto loop).

Combining high-precision contrast AF with high-speed hybrid AF, the camera is said to ensure rapid and accurate autofocus even in low-light situations.

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Conclusion

It’s evident that all three cameras offer a great solution for your filming needs, however, when choosing which camera to use for your next production, it boils down to personal preferences and requirements.

Having used Panasonic’s AW-UE70 for many years, we can confidently say that it has beautiful image quality combined with great low-light capabilities.

We’ve used the camera in every lighting condition and have been impressed with the AW-UE70s capability to adapt to each one.

On the other hand, Sony’s FR7 is a game-changer in the PTZ world with its interchangeable lenses and camera quality.

We’d suggest this camera to people who are looking to produce a cinematic look whilst filming remotely.

Lastly, Canon’s CR-N300 is a great option if you’re tracking a subject's face or looping the movements of the camera.

It also works extremely well in low-light situations due to the DIVIC DV6 processor and autofocus technology.

If you’d like to discuss options for your next project, or would like to hire any of these PTZ cameras, get in touch with us and we’ll provide you with a free, no-obligation quote.