While brands like SmallHD and Blackmagic Design might get the majority of the focus from those looking for on-camera monitors/recorders (and perhaps rightfully so), it never hurts an industry to have more competition and options to consider.
So it’s welcoming news to see that the Chinese monitor and wireless video solution company Shimbol has added another monitor/recorder to an already crowded marketplace for video creators with their new Shimbol Memory I Pro.
With 2000 nits, HDMI and 3G-SDI in and out, and support for Full HD MP4 video recording directly to an SD card, this 5.5-inch on-camera monitor is certainly worth considering for those looking to streamline their on-set video workflows.
Now let’s see what it offers and how it stacks up against the rest.
The Shimbol Memory I Pro
As mentioned above, Shimbol is not the biggest name on the external monitor for the video market. However, with their new Memory I Pro, we’re actually looking at a pretty decent spec sheet and build-out for this 5.5” HDMI & 3G-SDI touchscreen monitor/recorder which can view up to DCI 4K25 HDMI or 1080p60 3G-SDI video.
You can also apply your own custom 3D LUTs and view them on the 1920 x 1080 touchscreen display which features a 178-degree viewing angle, 1200:1 contrast ratio, and 2000 cd/m² brightness which should allow for solid visibility even on the brightest of sets.
The Shimbol Memory I Pro also includes HDMI and 3G-SDI inputs and outputs, a USB-C port for debugging, a 3.5mm headphone jack for embedded audio, and, of course, an SD card slot for onboard recording if that’s your thing. Plus, with multiple visual assist functions, you can seamlessly toggle your controls with improved UI and touchscreen options.
The Best On-Camera Monitors/Recorders
Credit: Shimbol
But how does this new monitor/recorder actually stack up with its competition?
As we’ve covered before, our list of the best video monitors for creators is heavier on brands more familiar to most video pros. And, if you want the reliability that comes with a trusted brand in this space, you might be better looking at brands like SmallHD, Atomos, or Blackmagic Design from the start.
In fact, here are three of our top options to at the very least look at before pulling the trigger on this new Shimbol Memory I Pro:
In particular, the Atomos Ninja V is probably the closest competitor to the Shimbol Memory I Pro with similar specs and a slightly cheaper price point. However, the Memory I Pro does look to indeed be brighter and perhaps better for certain on-set situations. So it’s certainly worth doing your research before any purchase.
Specs and Pricing
Credit: Shimbol
Here are the full specs and features listed for the Shimbol Memory I Pro as well as a link to purchase below:
- 1920 x 1080 Touchscreen Display
- Up to DCI 4K25 HDMI, 1080p60 3G-SDI
- 1080p60 MP4 File Recording to SD Card
- 2000 cd/m² Brightness
- Improved UI Interface, 3D LUT Support
- HDR Monitoring, Waveform
- Real-Time Focusing, Custom RGB Settings
- Cold Shoe Mount, 1/4"-20 Thread
- Embedded Audio, 3.5mm Headphone Port
- NP-F Battery Plate, DC Input
Price: $459.00
The Shimbol Memory I Pro is set to come with a tempered screen protector, an SD card, an HDMI cable, and an SDI cable and should be shipping soon.
How do you feel about this new monitor/recorder? Any interest in checking it out, or will you direct your gear needs elsewhere? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
