The Elgato Prompter has quickly become an essential tool in my content creation workflow as well as daily telecommute. As someone who regularly produces videos for various purposes as well as takes part in online meetings, I’m always searching for ways to enhance the quality of my presentations and engage my audience more effectively. The Elgato Prompter has undoubtedly delivered on that front, exceeding my expectations in several ways.
From the moment I unboxed it, I was impressed by the sleek design and user-friendly setup. The single USB-C connection for both power and data is a brilliant touch, eliminating the tangle of cables that often plague my workspace. Within minutes, I had the prompter connected to my MacBook Pro and was ready to start recording. The included step-up rings ensured compatibility with my camera lens, and the backplate provided added stability for my webcam, demonstrating the thoughtful design that caters to various camera setups.
The integrated design, with the screen seamlessly attached to the beamsplitter, is a game-changer. Gone are the days of fiddling with separate components and struggling to achieve perfect alignment. The text is always precisely positioned and effortlessly readable, allowing me to maintain natural eye contact with the camera and deliver my lines with newfound fluency. The 9-inch display is generously sized, and the text is crisp and clear, even when positioned at a comfortable distance. Some have said that the size of the display is a bit small but I believe that is completely use case-based. If you are sitting in your office creating content or hosting an online meeting, chances are that you will be close enough to the Prompter that the size will be ample. If you are trying to leverage the Prompter for a studio shoot when standing 5-10 feet from the Prompter, you might have to strain your eyes to make everything out clearly – or – increase the font of your script quite a bit.
One of the standout features of the Elgato Prompter is its intuitive software. It offers a comprehensive suite of customization options, allowing me to fine-tune the scrolling speed, adjust the text size, and even integrate with other applications like Twitch chat for real-time interaction with my audience. I particularly appreciate the ability to control the prompter with my Elgato Stream Deck, enabling hands-free operation and a more streamlined workflow. Being able to start and pause my script with the touch of one of its buttons is a match made in heaven. This integration showcases the synergy between Elgato products, creating a cohesive ecosystem for content creators.
Beyond the technical aspects, the Elgato Prompter has significantly impacted my on-camera presence. I’m no longer burdened by the pressure of memorizing scripts, which allows me to focus on my delivery and connect with my audience on a more genuine level. The prompter has instilled a newfound confidence in my ability to present information in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. It has undoubtedly elevated the professionalism of my videos, making them more polished and captivating.
Most people will probably purchase the Elgato Prompter for use in their content creation – and I have been using it for that purpose as well – however I also LOVE using it in my online meetings. I can bring relevant material to the display and scan it for talking points or even take notes on it. Overall, the increased eye contact makes for a much more engaging virtual meeting.
While the Elgato Prompter is a remarkable tool, there are a few minor considerations to keep in mind. The $279.99 price point, though competitive for its features, might be a hurdle for some content creators with limited budgets. Additionally, while the prompter boasts compatibility with a wide array of cameras, the design seems particularly optimized for DSLR cameras and Elgato’s own Facecam series. Other webcams may function adequately, but they might not achieve the same level of stability or seamless integration as those specifically catered to in the design.
In conclusion, the Elgato Prompter is a valuable investment for any content creator seeking to elevate their video production quality. Its user-friendly design, seamless integration, and professional-grade features make it a standout product in the market. Whether you’re a seasoned YouTuber, an aspiring streamer, or an educator crafting online courses, the Elgato Prompter empowers you to deliver your message with confidence, clarity, and captivating engagement. It has transformed my video creation process, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their on-screen presence.
Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros:
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
- Integrated design with perfect screen alignment
- High-quality display with clear text
- Versatile camera compatibility
- Improves eye contact and delivery
Cons:
- Design may favor DSLR cameras and Elgato Facecams over other webcams