At first glance, PTZ cameras may seem unrelated to streaming, but they actually play a significant role. They transmit videos over the internet in real-time and provide essential features such as remote control for panning and zooming.
With numerous options available, selecting the right one can be challenging. Therefore, I decided to test several models and share my thoughts on each. In my opinion, the best PTZ camera for live streaming is AVKANS AV-CM20 due to its excellent zoom and video resolution.
If you would like to learn more about this model and a few others, please continue reading!
Best PTZ Camera for Live Streaming
 | Top Choice AVKANS AV-CM20
| |
 | Zowietek Pro Camera
| |
 | Logitech PTZ Pro 2
|
How a PTZ camera enhances my streaming experience?
The most obvious answer is that it is specifically designed for streaming video. The manufacturer assumes that their cameras will stream the footage they record over the internet as a standard feature. This is particularly true for newer models, which I will discuss in this article.
Additionally, they can provide an advantage when recording in conditions that are deemed hazardous for humans.
Most of them feature automatic motion tracking, allowing them to autonomously pan and follow a subject without any human presence.
Without further delay, let’s explore what the world of PTZ cameras has to offer.
Table of Contents
1. AVKANS AV-CM2
The top choice
Stefan’s Take:
This model had everything I was looking for – great resolution, records at 60 FPS, amazing zoom, and multiple connectivity options.
Of course, nothing can beat my DSLR camera but I was still quite amazed by the quality of the video recorded with this small camera and overall built quality.
| Resolution | 10 |
|---|---|
| Zoom | 10 |
| Controllability | 9 |
| Autofocus | 10 |
Why do I believe that the AVKANS AV-CM2 is the best option among these?
It is the most practical option to use, featuring the best specifications: impressive zoom and video resolution.
Let’s examine its specifications more closely.
Key Features
The AV-CM20 provides all the features one would expect from a PTZ camera. It is a 1080p60 broadcast PTZ camera, which means it transmits full HD video at 60 frames per second.
In addition to 60fps, you can reduce the frame rate to 50, 30, or 25fps if you wish to conserve space while recording or bandwidth while streaming.
You can find various options for purchasing this camera – with or without a mount, 20x optical zoom or 30x optical zoom, and so on. I chose the one with 30x optical zoom.
Connectivity is specified as USB; however, the USB port is limited to recording only. The other three options (HDMI/3G-SDI/IP streaming outputs) are exactly what their names imply – outputs that can stream.
Moreover, what makes it the best are the Tamron lenses. Tamron is a brand that many photography enthusiasts will recognize. It is available in two variants: 20x and 30x optical zoom.
Pros
- Affordable
- An all-in-one package
- Image stabilization
- High optical zoom
Cons
- None
2. Zowietek Pro Camera
PTZ Camera with the Best Resolution
Stefan’s Take:
I wanted to test the Zowietek PTZ camera because it had quite similar specs to the previous model, making it easy to compare them. What stood out to me was how quiet it was – moving smoothly from one position to another.
And while 20x zoom is amazing, the resolution is even better, I lost my patience when setting it up. It was too much of a hassle.
| Resolution | 10 |
|---|---|
| Zoom | 9 |
| Controllability | 10 |
| Autofocus | 9 |
The Zowietek Pro provides many of the same features as its predecessor, but with enhanced performance and a corresponding increase in price.
Zowietek is regarded as an off-brand camera, despite its quality being evident.
Key Features
It includes a mount that tilts from approximately -30 degrees to +90 degrees and pans within a 170-degree range.
While the mount is easy to install on a wall, setting up the camera on any other surface is not as straightforward.
Setting it up will require some knowledge of internet protocols and related topics, or a willingness to learn.
Its panning and tilting speeds are quite fast—up to 60 degrees per second for panning and 30 degrees per second for tilting. This is a useful feature for quick transitions between different shots.
Of course, there is a remote control option, but you can also use an Xbox 360 joypad as a controller, which is a rather unique feature.
Pros
- High level of versatility
- Good image quality
- 30X optical zoom version
Cons
- Locked IP and needs a dedicated PC to work
3. Logitech PTZ Pro 2
Ideal for low-light conditions
Stefan’s Take:
The feature that impressed me the most was the performance in low-light conditions. And while the video quality did drop slightly in low light, I was still quite pleased with just how clear it is.
I was also skeptical about the Advanced Camera Technology feature and how well it processes videos, but it was another pleasant surprise. However, the remote control didn’t work the best, and I got numerous complaints that I was out of focus during my stream.
| Resolution | 10 |
|---|---|
| Zoom | 9 |
| Controllability | 9 |
| Autofocus | 9 |
This is a good and very affordable PTZ camera. It provides almost all the functionality of a higher-priced camera, albeit with some high-end trade-offs.
Those trade-offs are sacrifices that anyone not seeking a high-quality PTZ camera would willingly accept to obtain a more affordable product that will certainly meet their needs.
Key Features
It’s ideal for conference room meetings or classrooms. Its panning and zoom capabilities are sufficient for a meeting of about 20 people, give or take.
It connects to your laptop or desktop’s USB port for the easiest access possible. This enables it to operate more smoothly and likely far better than your integrated or store-bought webcam would.
It includes a special feature that provides a clearer image in low light conditions, making it ideal for nighttime surveillance.
One of its most important features is called Advanced Camera Technology. This feature enables the camera to process the video it records internally, significantly freeing up your bandwidth.
It was evident that Logitech considered individuals with a limited budget when designing this remarkable piece of video recording equipment.
Pros
- Low-light camera
- USB is a nice way to connect
- Covers all basic needs
Cons
- Autofocus can mess up a bit
- Dodgy remote control
4. OBSBOT Tiny PTZ 4K Webcam
The most affordable option
Stefan’s Take:
When I saw the Gesture control, I had to get this camera – and while it took some getting used to, I liked how easy it was to change the angle or adjust the zoom.
However, the overall quality is a bit disappointing – I’m not a big fan of digital zoom, and the video quality is lower than the previous three models. Overall, I would recommend it only to people on a tight budget since it’s significantly cheaper than other models.
| Resolution | 9 |
|---|---|
| Zoom | 9 |
| Controllability | 9 |
| Autofocus | 9 |
On paper, this PTZ camera provides nearly all the features of a significantly more expensive PTZ camera; however, upon closer inspection, some drawbacks become quite apparent.
It’s a webcam that employs PTZ technology to follow you as needed. This feature makes it ideal for users such as Twitch gamers, YouTubers, or anyone else who needs to record themselves speaking.
Functions like any traditional web camera—connecting through a USB port and offering plug-and-play convenience, eliminating the need for driver installation and complicated setup.
Key Features
What makes this camera somewhat revolutionary is its use of AI to locate and track its subject (you).
The IndieGoGo-backed company chose to incorporate a high-quality Sony 1/2.8” sensor into the OBSBOT Tiny PTZ 4K Webcam.
Another intriguing feature it offers is the ability to control the pan, tilt, or zoom options using pre-defined hand gestures! This sounds incredibly futuristic and enjoyable, but it does take some time to get accustomed to.
At times, those gestures resemble your own mannerisms, and I often accidentally panned or zoomed the camera, particularly in the beginning.
The camera also features a privacy mode, which is quite intuitive – you simply push the camera downwards.
There is one significant downside to this camera, though.
It can only zoom in digitally.
Digital zoom is not suitable for those expecting a sharp and clear image when zoomed in. The image will likely appear very pixelated, depending on the level of zoom applied.
This may not be an issue if you plan to use the camera in a small room with only a few people.
Pros
- 4K video
- Good sound
- AI-assisted camera control
Cons
- Digital zoom
- Hand gestures can be wonky
5. FoMaKo PTZ Camera
PTZ Camera with the Best Zoom
Stefan’s Take:
FoMaKo PTZ Camera is the camera with the best zoom – 30X optical zoom works amazing, keeping the quality of the image even when fully zoomed. Also, autofocus adjusts quite quickly, and I received zero complaints about videos and streams being out of focus.
The issue I had was with the setup – the manual was unclear, and connecting the camera took too much time.
| Resolution | 9 |
|---|---|
| Zoom | 10 |
| Controllability | 8 |
| Autofocus | 8 |
The Chinese have significantly improved their technology in gadgets like these. In the past, a Chinese camera was synonymous with poor performance.
After using the phones and cameras of newer generations, I can confidently say that stereotype is a thing of the past.
This PTZ camera exemplifies how the country of origin can have little impact on performance. It is a high-quality camera, and you will find that almost all your needs are met once you have it.
Key Features
This camera is fully capable of covering even a large room, such as a church or a spacious conference room.
The 30x optical zoom option excels at capturing small details in an otherwise expansive scene.
Simultaneous 3G-SDI, HDMI, and IP streaming ensure that you will have plenty of options for any type of streaming web conferencing video equipment you possess.
It can wirelessly transmit its signal up to a distance of 100 meters, while the H.264/H.265 video compression feature provides a smooth streaming experience, even in low bandwidth conditions.
Unlike some other future brands and cameras on this list, this camera pans and tilts almost silently.
While that may not be a relevant feature for everyone, there are circumstances in which it is one of its key attributes.
Pros
- High zoom capability
- Various controllers
- Can record and store video
- Multiple compression formats
Cons
- The user manual can be a little hard to understand
6. PTZOptics 12X SDI GEN2
Best High-End PTZ Camera
Stefan’s Take:
Dedicated OBS controls stood out about this model – it’s not really a must in a PTZ camera, but it made streaming quite easier.
On the other hand, it does have poor zoom (only 12X), and the videos don’t have the best resolution. I did manage to get a decent-looking video after playing with the settings a bit. However, considering the price, I do think it should perform better.
| Resolution | 9 |
|---|---|
| Zoom | 8 |
| Controllability | 9 |
| Autofocus | 8 |
PTZOptics is a reputable brand in the digital camera industry, so expect to pay a bit more for their products.
The PTZOptics 12X SDI GEN2 is one of their most renowned products, providing greater reliability than competitors that engage in various other market niches.
In addition to their expertise in PTZ cameras, they also enjoy creating their own innovative software. They have developed applications for both PC and Mac that are dedicated to camera control.
They also created a dedicated OBS plugin and made it entirely open-source. This introduced several useful features that are not commonly found in other, more traditional brands of broadcast equipment.
Key Features
If you are primarily interested in connectivity features, this camera is for you! On its backside, you will find a multitude of sockets for every connectivity-related need you can imagine.
You can monitor your video on a separate screen via an HDMI cable while simultaneously streaming over SDI or LAN.
Their latest low-noise CMOS sensor provides excellent overall 2D and 3D noise reduction. The approximately 72-degree angle ensures wide coverage, making it suitable for larger rooms or conference halls.
The 12x optical zoom is sufficient for capturing smaller details that are located a bit farther from the camera.
It could benefit from additional features, and PTZOptics offers 20x optical zoom and 30x optical zoom versions of this camera.
Pros
- Great optics
- Versatile
- Versatile controls over image quality
Cons
- 12X zoom
- The resolution dial can be a little off
What Key Features to Look for Before You Add to Your Wish List?
As with all cameras, image quality is crucial. However, there are certain contextual situations where this may not hold true, and I will attempt to address all of these different criteria.
Durability
Some of these cameras will ultimately serve as surveillance cameras. Some of those will, in turn, monitor an outdoor area.
One of the key features of a camera like this is its durability, and perhaps even weather-sealing, allowing it to perform its job effectively over a long period, unaffected by external factors.
However, durability like this isn’t a significant factor if you’re searching for an indoor camera.
Image Quality
This is crucial in nearly every situation where you require a camera like this.
There are certain situations where image quality is a crucial feature of the camera, which is what makes the best PTZ camera for live streaming truly the best.
These situations include worship streaming in churches and other live events, such as concerts, where a good and clear zoom option is essential.
This means you should prioritize cameras that provide a significant optical zoom and high-quality optics overall.
However, those options are rarely found in a PTZ camera, particularly at a cinematic level. To achieve that level of performance, you’ll need a significant amount of money and a camera that is not included on this list.
If you simply want your conference video to appear polished, that’s fine, but you shouldn’t anticipate creating a blockbuster movie with any of these.
Low light visibility is another key feature in this section.
You should look for cameras with a minimum illumination of 0.5 lux, as these perform well in low-light conditions.
Mobility
A broader range of mobility for panning and tilting can be highly beneficial. A narrow-angle lens has its limitations, but if you can adjust its position, it can cover much more area.
Combine that with extensive zoom capabilities, and you’re all set!
Optical Zoom
The larger the optical zoom, the better.
I’m focusing solely on optical zoom, as there are, as mentioned earlier, significant drawbacks associated with digital zoom.
For nearly any application, optical zoom is the essential feature of a PTZ camera and one of its most important attributes.
Price Range
Of course, depending on your needs, there are no compelling reasons to purchase an overpriced, state-of-the-art PTZ camera.
Unless you are seeking a serious piece of equipment for a professional TV or movie production, consider exploring some of the more affordable options. Particularly those included in this list.
Controllability
Some are controlled using an IR remote, while others utilize various types of controllers.
Most of them include an IR remote, but it can often be somewhat unreliable, as it requires a direct line of sight between you and the camera.
Other control options, such as LAN control, are proving to be more reliable; however, they come with the downside of requiring cables.
Conclusion
There you have it – the 6 best PTZ cameras for live streaming. The three that impressed me the most are:
I hope you have found a model that meets your needs and that you are pleased with the new gadget. Enjoy streaming, and I’ll be sure to stop by!
FAQ
Are PTZ Cameras good for live streaming?
Yes, absolutely. It’s been a long while since any of these cameras didn’t have an output suitable for internet streaming, but that’s not what their main forte is. Aside from streaming, they offer some serious automatization of the very process of filming. Whether you need help in panning and zooming smoothly, or you’re just too busy to constantly keep an eye on what the camera is filming, this is the thing you need. That makes them perfect for beginners as well as seasoned pros who only want to relieve their workflow of some unnecessary responsibilities.
How do I live stream with a PTZ camera?
Either very easy, or a little bit more complicated, but the answer is always – via their various possible outputs. These outputs include USB, LAN, Wi-Fi, and others, which are all readily available in all the best PTZ cameras. It’s imperative to have your bandwidth in mind when opting for your camera of choice, especially if you plan to use a Wi-Fi connection to stream your footage. Aside from that, in the vast majority of cases, you’ll need a computer to do so. So keep that in mind, too.
How do I know which PTZ camera is best for me?
Pretty easy, actually. It all depends on what you need it for. Here’s a little key for that kind of dilemma. If you need a webcam that will be able to follow you around for your Zoom meeting or your Twitch stream, even the cheapest ones will do the trick. If you want to stream a big conference, and you want all of the people to be seen, you’ll need something with a wider u003ca href=u0022https://streammentor.com/what-is-the-best-webcam-angle-for-streaming/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022u003ecamera angleu003c/au003e of coverage and a more powerful optical zoom. Those are immediately a little bit more expensive, and there are a couple of great deals on this list for this kind of purpose. If you want to automatize and replace your camera operator on a film set, a large-scale live event, or a big concert, the cameras you’ll need go up towards a big 4-figure price or more. Those cameras are not included in this list.
