The 9 Best Teleprompters for Smooth Video Recordings (All Budgets)

Want to create professional videos effortlessly? As a content creator, you can use a rainbow array of tools to make filming a breeze. Investing in a teleprompter may be one way to go.

So, how can you get started? 

In the following guide, we will take a look at some of the best teleprompters you can buy and a handy alternative you may have yet to consider. Here’s everything that you need to know to get started with your scripts.

What Is a Teleprompter?

A teleprompter, also known as an autocue, is a display device used in broadcasting, filmmaking, and public speaking to help individuals read a script or speech while maintaining eye contact with the camera or audience. It consists of a mirrored screen that reflects the text onto a glass panel in front of the camera. 

If you are a content creator and want to make reading your script easier, you can use a teleprompter. As we will cover in this guide, there are many different teleprompters on the market — suitable for a range of budgets. However, to find the best teleprompters out there, you need to know what you are looking for in this handy device first.

It’s worth noting that there are two types of teleprompter out there — hardware and software. Hardware refers to teleprompter devices that include a screen with text. On the other hand, you can install teleprompter software on existing devices, such as smartphones or tablets.  

What To Consider When Choosing a Teleprompter

Thinking of getting one of these devices for your content creation? Before you do so, you need to know what you’re looking for. If you want to find the best teleprompters for your needs, you should do your research. Here’s what factors you should be considering: 

Compatibility

The teleprompter you choose must be compatible with your camera, lens, and other devices. It's also vital to ensure it works with other devices you plan to use, such as computers, tablets, or smartphones. Some teleprompters have specific requirements for the devices that can run their software.

Size and Portability

Consider the size and weight of the teleprompter. If you need to move it frequently or travel with it, a compact and lightweight model may be more suitable. However, this point matters less if it will be stationary.

Text Visibility and Adjustment

Ensure the teleprompter provides visible text size, font, and scrolling speed adjustment. Your exact requirements will depend on a whole range of things, including your vision and the speed at which you read.

Mounting Options

Check if the teleprompter offers multiple mounting options, such as tripod mounting, camera rig attachment, or standalone options. This flexibility can be essential if you plan on using various shooting scenarios.

Remote Control

Does the teleprompter have a remote control or foot pedal to control the text scrolling? Many people fail to consider this simple factor when looking at the best teleprompters. It’s a small thing that can make a big difference.

Price Range

Since teleprompters come in various price ranges, it's essential to consider your budget and balance it with your specific needs. In this guide, we will be looking at teleprompters for a range of different budgets.

Ease of Setup and Use

Choose a teleprompter that is easy to set up and operate. Complicated setups can lead to delays and frustration, particularly in fast-paced production environments. To determine whether the teleprompter has a quick and easy setup, it’s worth looking at the reviews on the sellers’ website first.

9 of the Best Teleprompters for Video Recordings

Looking for the best teleprompters? You’ve come to the right place. We look at some of the most popular on the market. We’ve also compared each of their overall cost, features, and compatibility. Here are nine options you may want to look into: 

1. Telmax G2-17

Price: $1,199

Compatibility: Compatible with DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, camcorders, and large broadcast cameras.

Portability: Less portable due to its larger size

The Telmax G2-17 is a professional-grade teleprompter with a selection of display sizes. It also includes a remote control and ZaPrompt Pro software, which makes it easy to control the teleprompter and scroll the text. 

Pros

•  It has a large and easy-to-read display
•  Suitable for studio use and larger video production setups

Cons

• Bulky and less portable
•  It has a higher price point
• It does not include a camera mount

2. Glide Gear TMP100

Price: $199 

Compatibility: DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, camcorders, smartphones

Portability: Fairly portable, with a collapsible design

The Glide Gear TMP100 is a tabletop teleprompter available in two screen sizes: 10 inches, 12 inches, and 17 inches. The teleprompter has remote control and variable speed control features, often including a smartphone or tablet mount.

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Compatible with smartphones, tablets, and a wide range of smaller cameras
• Affordable price point

Cons

• Not ideal for larger cameras
• Screen size quite small 

3. Desview T3 Teleprompter

Price: $89 

Compatibility: DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, camcorders

Portability: Can be easily folded up for easy transport

The Desview T3 Teleprompter is a high-quality teleprompter for smartphones, tablets, and DSLR cameras. This autocue is available in two sizes, 10 and 12 inches and has remote and variable speed control features. The adjustable base means that you can easily choose the angle that works for you while recording your content. 

Pros

• Adjustable base allows you to find the perfect viewing angle

• iOS and Android app for control

Cons

• Fewer features than competitors 
• Autocue is quite small 

4. Ambitful Teleprompter Kit

Price: From $45.53 (sale price)

Compatibility: Most smartphones and tablets

Portability: Can be folded up for easy transport

Looking for a teleprompter that is compatible with your smart device? The Ambitful Teleprompter Kit is a budget-friendly option. It is also available in two sizes, 10 and 12 inches, and has a dimming function and variable speed control features that make it easy to read the text. Use the affordable kit to create your own portable teleprompter. 

Pros

• Compatible with smartphones and tablets
• Highly portable when you’re on the move
• Affordable option

Cons

• You need your own smartphone to use it 
• Not as high-tech as other options

5. Padcaster Parrot Teleprompter

Price: $99.00

Compatibility: Most smartphones

Portability: Extremely compact and portable

This is one of the best teleprompters for people on a real budget. You can use the smartphone teleprompter with the free Padcaster Parrot Teleprompter app. It has a 7.5-inch screen with a dimming function, a variable speed control, and Bluetooth remote control features. It’s also super portable, which is great news when you’re on the go.

Pros

• It has an ultra-portable design
• Easy to set up and use

Cons

• Only compatible with the Padcaster
• The screen is not as large as some other teleprompters

6. Prompter People Ultralight

Price: From $299

Compatibility: Tablets and smartphones. It also has a universal mount for other devices, such as laptops and DSLR cameras

Portability: It's lightweight and compact, hence suitable for on-the-go use

The Prompter People Ultralight is a tabletop teleprompter that is both compact and lightweight. It includes a clear, bright screen with remote control and variable speed control features. The screen itself is 10, 12, or 15 inches, depending on your chosen model. 

Pros

• Compact and lightweight

• Adjustable text brightness

Cons

• Limited compatibility with larger cameras
• May require an additional smartphone or tablet to control the text

7. Autocue Starter Series

Price: $2,142 

Compatibility: DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, camcorders, broadcast cameras, smartphones, and tablets.

Portability: Not very portable

No matter which camera you have, this teleprompter is likely to fit the bill. The Autocue Starter Series is a 17-inch teleprompter, which is ideal for professional content creators. It comes with several accessories, such as a remote control, a variable speed control, and a carrying case, which makes it easy to transport the teleprompter.

Pros

• Adjustable to fit most cameras.
• Ideal for professionals
• High-quality glass screen

Cons

• Less portable for on-location shooting
• Higher price point 

8. Caddie Buddy Teleprompter

Price: From $159.99

Compatibility: Smartphones and smaller cameras

Portability: Fairly portable and suitable for smaller video productions

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The Caddie Buddy Teleprompter is a portable teleprompter available in two sizes: 10 inches and 12 inches screen displays. This teleprompter has a remote-control feature (for the 12-inch model only) and is ideal for smartphones and tablets. However, it is worth noting that this particular teleprompter doesn’t work with some of the large cameras on the market.

Pros

• Portable and easy to set up
• Includes a remote control function

Cons

• Limited compatibility with larger cameras
• The 10-inch model lacks the remote control feature

9. Datavideo TP-300

Price: $425

Compatibility: Camcorders, DSLR, and mirrorless cameras

Portability: The teleprompter is 1.9Kg, and so is quite portable

Lightweight and small, the Datavideo TP-300 is a compact teleprompter designed for small to mid-sized cameras. It also has a remote control, adjustable text speed, and brightness features. This is one of the best teleprompters for high-quality video productions. As a bonus, it also supports Microsoft PowerPoint for your scripts.

Pros

• Lightweight and small 
• Flexible control options
• Supports Microsoft PowerPoint

Cons

• Not compatible with all cameras 
• Can be harder to set up 

Is a Teleprompter Worth It?

A teleprompter can be valuable if you regularly create scripted content, such as news reports, educational tutorials, or professional presentations. It helps ensure the presenter delivers the script accurately and confidently while saving valuable time by eliminating the need for them to memorize the lines.  

However, investing in a teleprompter might not be worth it if you're on a tight budget and can achieve your content goals without one. Additionally, certain content styles, such as candid interviews, documentary-style videos, or content showcasing spontaneity, may not benefit from teleprompters. 

The Alternative: Teleprompter Software

Teleprompter software could be the answer. This refers to computer programs or applications that replicate the functionality of a traditional teleprompter. Users can read the script while maintaining eye contact with a camera or audience. They are an excellent alternative for people on a budget or when using a device that does not have a built-in teleprompter function, such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.

Better yet, you can try a platform that does it all. Riverside is a video creation platform with features for recording, editing and transcription. With a built-in teleprompter for video recordings, you don’t need any additional software or equipment to view your script during production. You can adjust the font size on your teleprompter and position it on the screen as you like. 

With Riverside, you can record in up to 4K video resolution, and invite up to 9 guests to join you. Among other features, with Riverside, you’ll get:

• Script and teleprompter straight in your video creation platform
• Offers local recordings so everything records directly on your device instead of relying on internet.
• Create ultra high-quality recordings with up to 4K video and 48kHz audio resolution
• Highly accurate AI transcriptions available in 100+ languages
• Text-based Editor where you can adjust your recording as easy as deleting text in a transcript.
• Separate audio and video tracks for all participants to give you more editing flexibility
• Automated editing tools to adjust your layout, background and audio
• Video captions which you can style and position onto your recording
• Magic Clips tool which uses AI to turn one recording into multiple shareable clips

Learn more or sign up to start experiencing all these benefits!\

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FAQs On The Best Teleprompters

Do Most YouTubers Use a Teleprompter?

The use of teleprompters on YouTube varies depending on the content and style of the creator. Some YouTubers prefer scripted content and may use teleprompters to help with delivery, while others prefer unscripted or more spontaneous formats, so they don't use them. YouTubers may also use teleprompter software to script their videos.

What Is The Best Teleprompter With Voice Recognition?

The PromptSmart Teleprompter has a built-in voice recognition system that allows you to control the speed of the scrolling text with your voice. 

What Is The Best Teleprompter App For iPhone While Recording?

BIGVU Video Teleprompter is an ideal app for iPhone users. It has a voice recognition feature to enable you to keep your hands free while you are recording. It also allows you to add images and videos to your script, which is helpful if you want to show your audience something that could be more easily explainable in words.