SWIT is well-known for their lineup of compact on-camera monitors, such as the CM-S75F we reviewed here. The company also makes production monitors, and they recently released the stellar BM-U325 and BM-U326MD 4K/8K monitors. However, with respective price tags of $19,000 and $26,000, these high-end monitors are not aimed at everybody.

SWIT has released an updated version of their FM-21HDR, which was released in 2021: the FM-215HDR. The FM-21HDR looks quite similar to the OSEE LCM215-HDR+ (my review here), which isn’t surprising as SWIT is the parent company of OSEE.

SWIT FM-215HDR – features

The SWIT FM-215HDR is a 21.5-inch production monitor with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080. The monitor has a contrast ratio of 1000:1 and a large viewing angle of 178°, so you should be able to use it outside without any problems.

The monitor has an 8-bit panel but uses the 8+2 FRC technology to emulate 10-bit. This is a widespread “trick” amongst all manufacturers, as genuine 10-bit panels are expensive. According to SWIT, the FM-215HDR covers 97% of the DCI-P3 color space. SWIT also mentions that the monitor supports PQ/HLG/S-Log3 HDR monitoring.

Also, the FM-215HDR can be color-calibrated using the “Atheros X-rite I1 Pro OEM and JETI Specobos1211 color probes directly connected to the monitor via USB.”

As you can tell, the monitor comes with an aluminum flight case, which is handy for transporting and protecting it, something essential for a production monitor. However, please keep in mind that the unit measures 57 x 26 × 40.5cm/22.4 x 10.2 x 15.9in and weighs 7.28kg/16 lbs, so it’s not the kind of monitor that you always bring with you as a one-man-band filmmaker, for example.

Input and output ports

At the back of the SWIT FM-215HDR, you’ll find:

• Three 3G-SDI and one 12G-SDI video input ports.
• One 3G-SDI and one 12G-SDI video output port.
• One HDMI 2.0 input port.
• There are three RS-485 ports: one is a GPI (tally) input, and two are for TSL3.1/4.0 UMD dynamic source name input/output.
• There is a built-in speaker and a 3.5mm audio output.
• A 4-pin XLR 12V power input and a regular mains power input.
• A USB port at the front for firmware update and load custom LUTs.

Even if the FM-215HDR has a 1080p display, it supports 4K input/output signals at up to DCI 4K60p.

The FM-215HDR can also be powered via V-Mount batteries and has a built-in battery plate. If you want to mount this production monitor to a light stand, there are VESA 100×100 mounting points at the back. However, the FM-215HDR doesn’t come with a light stand bracket, so you’ll have to buy it separately.

Monitoring tools

The SWIT FM-215HDR has multiple function buttons at the front, so you can quickly adjust your brightness/contrast/source/saturation settings. It also has five user-assignable function buttons and four user profiles.

The monitor has multiple video inputs, so it supports quadview monitoring, two picture-in-picture, and two picture-by-picture monitoring. You can also view two inputs vertically (9:16) in a direct crop mode for social media shootings.

The FM-215HDR also has built-in monitoring tools, including waveform tools, peaking, R/G/B mono, histogram, zebra, false color, marker, and audio signal.

Pricing and availability

The SWIT FM-215HDR is available now for $1,799/€1,999. The monitor comes with two accessory plates, a screen protector, and an aluminum flight case.

For more information, please visit SWIT’s website here.

What do you think about the FM-215HDR? Do you often use production monitors? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!

When shooting a multi-cam project or simply having multiple crew members out on a set, a reliable intercom system can save a lot of time and stress. Aside from established professional and rather expensive solutions, there have been quite a few affordable offerings emerging in recent years. One of the recent examples is the Hollyland Solidcom C1 Pro system.

Another Chinese company, CAME-TV is not a newbie in the intercom systems market either. For instance, back in 2018, we reported about the CAME-WEARO headset. Today, CAME-TV launches a new, much more compact full-duplex wireless intercom system called CAME-NANO. Let’s take a quick look at its features and specs.

CAME-NANO – compact full-duplex intercom system

There are two types of CAME-NANO devices – master and host. For the communication to work, you always need one master unit which can then control up to four host units to create a full duplex connection for up to five people.

A quick side note – in case you’ve never heard this term, “full-duplex” simply means there is no need to press a button to speak as every device can receive and send audio at the same time (much like regular cell phone calls). The technology used in this device is a Time Division Duplex (TDD).

As the name already implies, CAME-TV, above all, emphasizes the overall compact size of the devices. Each CAME-NANO weighs 64g/2.25oz and its dimensions are 7x6cm/2.75 x 2.36in. In line with the minimalistic design, the body of the CAME-NANO features three buttons only (volume up, mute, volume down). The design of the master and host unit is almost identical, the only difference being the color of the symbols on the buttons (master – red with an “M” printed on the front, host – white). The power button is on the side.

The device features a built-in microphone and speaker, and it also offers a 3.5mm TRRS audio input/output port for connecting an external headset. Each CAME-NANO device has a built-in battery (3.7V, 1100mAh) that can last for up to 15 hours (master up to 8 hours) of uninterrupted talk time, according to CAME-TV. For charging, there is a USB-C port, so it can also be charged using a power bank (5V, 500mA).

The system features noise reduction for clear voice delivery. CAME-TV also claims the audio connection has zero latency (zero delay). When it comes to range, CAME-TV claims the Nano can achieve up to 335m/1100ft line-of-sight connection (distance from the main pod). The frequency in which the system works is 1881.792-1897.344 MHz (CE, Europe) or 1920-1930 MHz (FCC, USA).

The CAME-NANO offers a variety of carrying options – hanging, clipping, or handheld use. The device comes with a removable clip that can also be used with the included velcro strap or lanyard.

Larger groups or multiple independent groups

For larger groups (between 6 and 8 people), you can connect two master devices via a 3.5mm audio cable. Each master then controls up to 4 host devices. When connected this way, it seems the master device itself cannot be used for audio in/output anymore, but only for controlling and connecting other host devices.

For even larger crews, CAME-TV also offers a hub that can control additional CAME-NANO devices to create a full-duplex connection for up to 20 people. The good thing is that the new CAME-NANO is cross-compatible with other existing CAME-TV communication systems as well.

Price and availability

CAME-NANO intercom system can be ordered now, and you can choose between US and EU versions depending on where you will be using the device. CAME-TV offers many different kits (each device comes with a headset, strap, and lanyard):

• CAME-NANO intercom master unit – $163
• CAME-NANO intercom host unit – $163
• CAME-NANO intercom 2-kit (master and host) – $317
• CAME-NANO intercom 4-kit (master and 3 hosts) – $625
• CAME-NANO intercom 5-kit (master and 4 hosts) – $688
• CAME-NANO intercom 7-kit (hub, master, 6 hosts) – $1,099
• CAME-NANO intercom 10-kit (2 masters, 8 hosts) – $1,375
• CAME-NANO intercom 10-kit (hub, master, 9 hosts) – $1,485
• CAME-NANO intercom 14-kit (2 hubs, 2 masters, 12 hosts) – $2,198
• CAME-NANO intercom 20-kit (2 hubs, 2 masters, 18 hosts) – $2,970

For more information and to purchase a kit, please have a look at their website.

Which solution do you use for communication with your team on set? What do you think about the new CAME-TV Nano intercom? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section underneath the article.

Building on the success of the original HD SeeMo, this new model introduces UHD 4K HDMI input. The original SeeMo adapter was introduced in 2022 (here’s our video review in case you missed it) with the SeeMo Pro following in 2023, which offered some significant changes and additions. Now, the newly released SeeMo 4K has been introduced, which can transform iPhones (iPhone 8 and later) and iPads into high-resolution on-camera monitors that support 4K streaming capabilities. Integration is straightforward: connect the SeeMo 4K to the camera via HDMI, attach your iOS device using the included Lightning or USB-C cable, and launch the Accsoon SEE app.

4K streaming – streamlined

The SeeMo 4K simplifies live streaming workflows. Users can directly stream high-resolution video to social platforms like YouTube and TikTok using a 4K camera, the SeeMo 4K, and an iPhone. The adapter runs on a Sony NP-F type battery that can also charge your iPhone or iPad when connected. There is also an additional USB-C output so low-power USB devices like mics can be powered as well.

Here’s the breakdown

The SeeMo 4K is compact, lightweight, and can be carried in your pocket or a bag. It serves as a link between your camera (HDMI output) and iPhone (Accsoon SEE app), enabling professional monitoring, recording, and live streaming. The SeeMo 4K accepts 2160p at 23.98/24/25/29.97/30fps, 1080p up to 60fps, and 720p up to 60fps. The app displays a low latency image closely matching traditional monitors. 

The unit has an SD card reader that lets you transfer photos, videos, and other files to and from a USB-C iOS device. Please note that videos cannot be directly recorded to the SD card from the SeeMo 4K – it is for transfer purposes only.

Recordings are captured in H.264 format at up to 20 Mbps and saved directly to your iPhone’s camera roll. They can then be shared or backed up using email or various apps, including WhatsApp, iMessage, Airdrop, and more. The connection cable between SeeMo 4K and iPhone provides uninterrupted internet access and keeps Wi-Fi and data free for streaming and uploading content, separate from the video signal.

SEE App updates

The latest version of the SEE App has several important new features:

• 90-degree, 180-degree, or 270-degree video rotation for recording and streaming – helpful for social media users who want vertical video options.
• The ability to ‘burn’ a custom LUT to Log-encoded footage before recording or streaming from your iOS device.
• A secondary calibration LUT can be loaded for viewing purposes for those with access to high-end calibration equipment, giving them the most precise color accuracy possible on their iOS devices. (This operates independently of any creative LUTs you might be using.)
• SRT protocol has been added for advanced users seeking higher quality, low-latency video streams.

The specs

Price and Availability

The SeeMo 4K is priced at $179 and will be available to purchase from authorized Accsoon dealers in April 2024. For more information and to compare the various SeeMo models, have a look at their website.

Do you see some new doors opening with this SeeMo 4K adapter? Do you own any of the other SeeMo devices? Let us know in the comments below!

As better codecs and formats trickle down to various hybrid and cine cameras, better, faster, and more spacious memory cards are required. While most low to mid-range cameras can do with UHS-II SD cards, high-end hybrid cameras often require faster cards. CFexpress type B cards are probably the most common in the premium segment.

Ironically enough, it’s mostly the non-Sony crowd who will benefit from the new 240GB and 480GB TOUGH cards. Type B is absent from most of the Sony line, which opted for the more compact CFexpress type A for the hybrid Alpha line. But if you own a Canon R5, R5C, or R3, a FUJIFILM X-H2 or X-H2s, a Nikon Z 8 or Z 9, or a Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K, these cards are worth your attention.

TOUGH build

As with all Sony’s TOUGH series, these cards are built to the highest physical standards. Resistant to bends, drops, X-rays, UV exposure, and extreme temperatures, the TOUGH duo operational range spans from -13 to 158°F / -25 to 70°C and the storage range goes as far as -40 to 185°F / -40 to 85°C. Sony makes many claims regarding the cards’ rigidity but I couldn’t find any verified information about weather resistance. While most cards are pretty sturdy and don’t usually go out in harsh conditions, bear this in mind.

High speed

The new CFexpress type B TOUGH duo boasts impressively high read/write speeds. This is the case with most CFexpress cards, but those two are fast even compared with this segment. PCIe 3.0 x2 Bus helps bring the max write speed of the 240GB and the 480GB to 1600 MB/s and 1750 MB/s respectively. While no minimum writing speed is specified, it seems that these cards will handle rather extreme requirements. Read speed is also on the high side at 1850 MB/s for the fastest data offloads. While more relevant for high-end video, these specs will also help stills photographers, especially with the recent crop of high-res / high-speed flagships like the Sony a1, Leica SL3, etc.

Alternatives

Memory card alternatives are naturally numerous, and CFexpress type B has been a standard for premium memory cards for quite a while, so many of these are readily available. These two new cards face rather stiff competition from the likes of Sandisk and Pro Grade, both offering competitive pricing and specs. The ProGrade 512GB CFexpress 4.0 Type B Gold offers higher speeds with a max write speed of 3000 MB/s and a min write speed of 2400 MB/s. It’s also significantly more affordable at $179. Sandisk also offers its 512 Extreme PRO CFexpress option for $139, but it’s a slightly slower card compared with Sony’s current TOUGH duo with a max write speed of 1400 MB/s. The Sandisk card is also on sale as this article is published, so pricing may vary depending on the time of reading. Both the Pro Grade and Sandisk cards aren’t tested to the same extreme conditions as the TOUGH series. While memory cards are relatively resilient compared with other filmmaking gear, Sony went the extra mile with the TOUGH series.

Price and availability

Both cards are available for preorder with expected shipping on May 9th-10th. The 240GB version will be priced at $200 while the larger 480GB will set you back $320, a better price-capacity ratio.

Will you opt for such fast cards for your next video production? Are such speeds overkill, or would you rather use the more efficient external recording options? Let us know in the comments.

Tiffen is a well-known and established American company founded in 1938. Their lens filters are popular among amateurs and professional filmmakers, and it was only a matter of time before we could see big companies like this stepping into the iPhone accessory market. The new Tiffen Smartphone 58mm Filter Mount opens up a world of possibilities to tweak and control the images produced with the iPhone.

A quick look at the Tiffen Smartphone 58mm Filter Mount

The Tiffen Smartphone 58mm Filter Mount is a straightforward accessory, easy to install and attach to the iPhone thanks to Apple’s MagSafe Technology. The mount secures to the back of the iPhone magnetically and is ready to thread on any Tiffen 58mm filter. 

Earlier this year, Tiffen released a set of filters for the DJI OSMO 3 Pocket. On this occasion, instead of releasing specific filters for the iPhone, they decided to release an adapter to use their standard 58mm filters. Aside from the fact that we can now use Tiffen professional filters easily on our iPhone, another advantage is that we can use the same filters as with our 58mm camera lenses. With the mount installed, we can now control our images with neutral density filters, UV protectors, polarizers, Pro-Mist filters to remove the iPhone digital edge, etc. The list of filters is infinite, so you can take a look at Tiffen’s catalog or use the filters you may already have with the 58mm diameter. 

The Tiffen Smartphone 58mm Filter Mount is lightweight (only 0.15 lbs) and made of black anodized aluminum. You can use it with the iPhone 14/15, 14/15 Pro, 14/15 Plus, and 14/15 Pro Max models. For content creators looking for cinematic images, while keeping a small setup, this accessory could be a nice add-on to their kit. 

Price and availability

The Tiffen Smartphone 58mm Filter Mount sells for $29.99, and different kits will also be available. For more information, please visit this link.

What do you think of the Tiffen Smartphone 58mm Filter Mount? Would you use it for your shootings? Let us know in the comments!

Roughly three years ago, Kessler launched the kOS app for the first time to provide a control interface for their motion control products, such as the Kessler Second Shooter or the CineShooter. Now, the company has announced a new version v5.1 that brings a few interesting upgrades. Let’s take a quick look at what is new.

Kessler kOS v5.1

The new update of the Kessler kOS app follows the recent launch of the Kessler CineShooter+ motion control system, which introduced several improvements over its predecessor, for instance, an Unreal Engine tracker-less integration. This feature is also included in the recent kOS version v5.1. It will now be possible to synchronize the camera’s motion in the Unreal engine-generated scene with the Kessler motion controller without the need for a tracker. Kessler published a useful tutorial on how this integration works.

Please note that for the Unreal integration, the paid Premium kOS version is required. The full kOS v5.1 release notes include the following:

• Added support for Unreal Engine (see documentation in app).
• The horizontal location (time) of multiple key frames on the graph can now be adjusted simultaneously.
• Device names can now be changed by right-clicking (or long pressing) on a device button.
• When selecting a Time Lapse or Stop Motion Exposure amount, additional choices have been added in five-second intervals up to two hours.
• Added support for Logitech Gamepad 310 (Windows version only).
• Various bug fixes and UI/performance improvements.

Kessler kOS functionality overview

In case you are not familiar with the Kessler kOS app, here is a brief overview of the supported functions:

• Movement
  • Live Motion
  • Event Mode
  • Timelapse
  • MultiLapse
  • Stop Motion
  • GigaPixel
  • Analog Control
• Compositing
  • Repeatable Moves – CineShooter+ is a nodal head with accuracy and repeatability, suitable for visual effects.
  • Same Move, any Duration – You can play the same move for 4 seconds or even 4 months. The move will always be the same.
  • Audio Sync – Easily sync audio with your move with built-in visual features. 
  • Flash Mark/Bloop Align – Use visual or audio-based marks for aligning takes for visual effects.
• Interactive Graph
  • 20 Keyframes per Axis – With kOS Premium you can program up to 20 keyframes per axis/motor.
  • Bezier Curves- Add and customize ease-ins and ease-outs to every keyframe for smooth moves.
  • Precise Positioning – Input an exact position directly.
  • Looping – Simply select one-time or continuous looping.
  • Bump Buttons – Useful for quickly moving the motors into the desired position.
  • Scrub through Move – Scrub through your move live to preview or to go to a spot on the graph instantly.
• Other
  • Camera Control – control your camera’s shutter or start and stop recording.
  • Delay – add an amount of time before or after the move or set a specific start time/date.
  • Multiple Tabs – have access to more than one move at a time.
  • Pre & Post Roll – program your camera to start recording before the move starts or to keep recording after the move ends.
  • Load & Go – load your move so that it’s ready to start instantly.
  • Save Moves – save your move for future use.
  • Pre & Post Photos – program your camera to take photos before or after your timelapse move has started or ended.
  • Fast Mode – allows the motors to move at their maximum speed.
  • Quiet Mode – this option automatically limits the motors to run at a low RPM and be quiet when sound is crucial.
  • DragonFrame – Kessler CineShooter+ & Second Shooter Pro support DragonFrame stop motion and live motion.

The Kessler kOS app is available for devices running Windows, macOS, or iPadOS systems. It now also supports client mode. This allows CineShooter+ (or Second Shooter Pro, Second Shooter Plus) and your device to connect to a location’s Wi-Fi network rather than connecting directly to the hardware’s own network. This can extend the connected range, and (if your existing network is connected to the internet) allow for easier multitasking.

Price and availability

The price of the Kessler kOS app depends on the type of licensing:

• Lite version – completely free of charge, but imposes a few limitations (no multi-lapse, Event mode, or Gigapixel, no Dropbox support, a maximum of 1 tab, and others). For the full list of differences, please refer to the Kessler webpage.
• Premium version – priced at $9.95/month, $99.95/year, or $199 for a perpetual license. It is worth noting that with the purchase of a CineShooter+, you will get 1 free year of kOS Premium.

For reference, the new Kessler CineShooter+ retails for $3,200.

Have you ever used any of the Kessler motion control systems for your work? What do you think about the new CineShooter+ and the kOS app? Do you use Unreal Engine for your productions? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section underneath the article.

Ulanzi’s lineup of lightweight travel tripods, including the Video-Go, the F38, and the Zero Y, prioritized portability. Now, they’ve expanded their range by introducing a heavy-duty tripod with quick-release functionality, the VideoFast Heavy Duty Tripod.

The tripod has a maximum weight capacity of 25kg/55lb to handle various shooting equipment and long-lens setups. It folds down to 88.6cm/34.8in and comes with a carrying bag for easy transport.

One-click setup and 5 angles

The VideoFast tripod has a one-click setup process. With one click, the legs are extended and locked. The tripod has three leg sections, each measuring 51cm/20in, which can be independently adjusted at 21°, 24°, 27°, 30°, and 33° angles. The 5-section tubes and an expanded joint connection provide a high level of stability in various shooting environments, plus, there is a 5-step mid-level spreader to fine-tune angles and provide extra stability. Additionally, the tripod has interchangeable non-slip rubber feet, steel spikes, and a built-in bubble level. 

From tripod to handheld – a quick switch

There is a quick-release plate on the tripod and a universal quick-release plate on the head to attach and detach the camera quickly when switching between the tripod and handheld shooting. The secure locking mechanism can be disengaged with one press. The tripod also has a removable center column and adjustable leg angles via the gear mechanism.

The hydraulic head

The Ulanzi VideoFast’s hydraulic head features a dynamic balancing system, helping to minimize camera shake and smoothly return the head to a level position after pans or tilts. The 6+6+10 adjustment system allows for fine-tuning camera movement through 6 levels of damping (smoothness) on both the tilt and pan axes and the 10-level counterbalance ensures precise camera leveling after tilting. It also features 360° panning and +90°/-45° tilting. The ⌀75mm detachable bowl head has a load capacity of up to 10kg/22 lbs.

Ulanzi VideoFast Heavy Duty Tripod – Specs

The tripod

• Materials: Carbon Fiber or Aluminium Alloy
• Dimensions: 88.6x17x16.5cm/ 34.88 x 6.69 x 6.50in
• Net Weight (Carbon Fiber Versions): 4.8kg/10.5 lb
• Net Weight (Aluminium Alloy Versions): 5.3kg/11.6 lb
• Height (with the fluid head included): 78.5cm -164cm/30.9-64.5in
• Collapsed Height (with the fluid head included): 83cm/32.6in
• Load Capacity for Fluid Head: 10kg/22 lb
• Load Capacity for Tripod Leg: 25kg/55 lb

The hydraulic head

• Materials: Aluminium Alloy
• Dimensions (without the handle): 27x13x12cm/10.63 x 5.12 x 4.72in
• Handle Length: 40cm/15.75in
• Net Weight: 2.2kg/4.85lb
• Fluid Head Load Capacity: 10kg/22lb
• Bowl Base Diameter: 75mm/2.95in
• Counterbalance: 10 steps
• Tilt Damping: 6 steps
• Pan Damping: 6 steps

Price and availability

The Ulanzi VideoFast Heavy Duty Tripod kit includes the tripod with the fluid head, a carry handle, a pan/tilt handle, an Allen wrench, a storage bag, and a user manual. The carbon fiber tripod retails at $599 (Early-Bird price is $499 from March 25-April 8, 2024), and the aluminum tripod retails at $499 (Early-Bird price is $399 from March 25-April 8, 2024).

You can purchase the VideoFast tripod and find more on their website here.

What do you think about the Ulanzi VideoFast Heavy Duty Tripod? Could you use something like this in your kit? What tripod are you currently using? Let us know in the comments!

The iPhone 15 Pro was released in September 2023, and thanks to its switch to a USB-C port instead of the well-known Lightning port, it offered new possibilities for content creators and filmmakers. Indeed, the iPhone 15 Pro can shoot in Apple ProRes HQ internally, it has the Apple Log picture profile, you can upload a LUT to it, and you can record externally via the USB-C port.

With these new filmmaking capabilities, many camera accessory manufacturers launched handy solutions to make your life easier, including the MagSafe recording module by Kondor Blue and Angelbird, the Eon Electronics MagDisk, and the upcoming Tilta Khronos, to list a few. Another small American company is now joining the party: the Galileo MagDrive.

Galileo MagDrive – features

The Galileo MagDrive is a MagSafe-compatible clamp that attaches magnetically to the back of your iPhone. The beauty of MagSafe accessories is that they can attach to your phone regardless of whether you have a case on it.

The MagDrive is made entirely out of aluminum. At the back, on the MagSafe connector, you’ll find a USB Type-C port. This port is used to charge your iPhone.

On top of the clamp, you’ll find a cold shoe mount to attach lightweight camera accessories.

At the bottom, there is also a 1/4″-20 mounting point so you can attach the MagDrive to a tripod. There are also multiple 1/4″-20 on the left and right sides of the Galileo MagDrive.

The Galileo MagDrive is compatible with multiple SSD drives with a width ranging from 40 to 58mm/1.57 to 2.28in. It is compatible with the widely popular Samsung T5/T7 SSD drives.

The unit comes with a 20gbps data cable and one 1.5m/4.92ft charging cable to record 4K60p ProRes footage externally right out of the box. Indeed, the iPhone 15 Pro requires a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 to record ProRes footage externally, so it’s nice that they include it.

Price and availability

The Galileo MagDrive is available now for €84,95/$84.99.

For more information, please visit Galileo’s website here.

What do you think about this MagSafe SSD holder? Do you often record footage externally with your iPhone 15 Pro? What is your go-to external recording solution? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!

By now, CFexpress has become ubiquitous as the de facto memory card standard for professional photography and filmmaking applications. Last summer, this standard even got a boost with the introduction of the CFexpress 4.0 specification, which brings speed benefits to both CFexpress Type A and Type B cards.

A few months later, OWC seized the opportunity to update their Atlas Pro and Ultra CFexpress memory card lineup to the new 4.0 protocol. Now, the company is completing the series with a dedicated USB4 card reader. Let’s take a quick look!

OWC Atlas CFexpress 4.0 Type B card reader – features

According to the company, their new Atlas CFexpress 4.0 Type B card reader can ensure real-world offloading speeds of up to 3300MB/s, thus making it 4x faster than any USB 3.2 reader. Additionally, the reader is also retro-compatible with CFexpress 2.0 cards, which are supported at their maximum speed capabilities.

The device can be connected to a laptop or mobile device via USB-C and supports USB4 and USB3, as well as Thunderbolt 4 and 3 connections on Mac machines. Moreover, the reader is bus-powered, meaning it doesn’t require an external power source.

The device features a simple, portable design. The enclosure is made of aluminum, has anti-slip rubber feet, integrates a status LED, and packs a high-efficiency, silent heat sink cooling system.

Lastly, the reader is compatible with the company’s proprietary Innergize software (available for Mac and PC), which allows you to monitor the health status of your cards, clean and restore their performance, and update their firmware.

Price and availability

The new OWC Atlas USB4 CFexpress 4.0 Type B memory card reader is now available to order from B&H. The official retail price is $99.99.

For more information, please visit OWC’s website here.

Do you already use CFexpress 4.0 Type B cards? What is your go-to choice when it comes to storing your valuable files? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

At the end of the day, whether the budget of your project is just a few thousand or even tens of thousands of dollars, the entire value of a photo or video production flows into the files generated by your camera(s) and saved on your memory cards. So, when you’re out in the field, you’d better have a strategy to quickly offload and securely store your media once it’s full.

Camera accessories manufacturer PGYTECH recently came up with a 2-in-1 reader/case solution that allows you to store a mixture of CFexpress and SD cards, while also offering the ability to transfer files with blazingly fast speeds. Let’s take a closer look!

PGYTECH CreateMate Card Reader/Case for CFexpress and SD cards

The PGYTECH CreateMate card reader/case exists in two versions: CFexpress Type-A and CFexpress Type-B. Depending on the model you choose, you can simultaneously store up to:

• 3x CFexpress Type-A or 2x CFexpress Type-B cards;
• 3x SD cards;
• 4x Micro SD cards;
• 2x Nano SIM cards.

Additionally, an eject pin is slotted inside the case. This can come in handy to eject cards from their slots, but can also act as a tiny screwdriver in case you need to tighten the screws on your camera setup.

When it comes to transferring files, the reader has two slots – one for CFexpress (again, Type-A or Type-B) and the other one for SD cards. However, keep in mind that you will need an SD to Micro SD Card Adapter if you want to offload your Micro SD cards.

The device connects to a laptop, or even some of the latest iPhone/iPad models, via a built-in USB-C cable. The connection relies on USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology to ensure maximum theoretical transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps for CFx cards (or 312MB/s for SD and Micro SD cards). The reader doesn’t normally require external power to work, but you can still feed it a 5V/2A power input if you want to be 100% sure of having stable data transfer speeds.

Overall, this hybrid solution by PGYTECH seems to be a “must-have” item for outdoor photographers and filmmakers shooting with multiple cameras in remote locations. For example, if you’re a videographer traveling with a Sony Alpha/FX-line camera and a drone, then you can store and offload all your CFx Type-A, SD, and Micro SD cards using a single device with minimal footprint.

Size, weight, and design

The core structure of the case is made of aluminum wrapped by a black or moss-green silicon protection layer on the outside. The accessory measures 130x75x27mm / 5.12×2.95×1.06in. weighs 198g / 6.98oz, and is claimed to be IP54 rated – which should make it drop-, dust-, and splash-resistant.

The case also has a little carabiner that enables you to clip it to a backpack, for example. Honestly, I would never attach a card case on the outside of my camera bag, as shown in the picture below. But still, this can be an extra safety feature if you have a velcro loop inside your backpack, for instance.

Price and availability

The new PGYTECH CreateMate card reader/case for CFexpress Type-A/Type-B and SD/Micro SD media is now available to order on B&H for $99.95.

For more information, please visit PGYTECH’s website here.

How do you store and offload your memory cards when you’re out in the field? What do you think of this hybrid solution by PGYTECH? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!