Videography can quickly become an expensive endeavor, with all the cameras, lenses, mics, and other accessories people need. However, Portkeys aims to make the barrier to entry a bit less daunting with its new 7-inch entry-level monitor, which costs just $99.
Sure, for under $100, users won’t get pro-level features across the board, but the new Portkeys HD7H monitor offers a lot of bang for your buck. The monitor’s 7-inch display has a 1,280 x 720 resolution, a 1,000:1 contrast ratio, and a maximum brightness of 1,000 nits, which is pretty bright and should work well in most outdoor shooting scenarios.
The HDMI-only monitor accepts video signals up to 4K UHD/30p or 4K DCI at 24p. It also has a 3.5mm audio out, a built-in speaker, and an AV input. The HD7H is powered via a single Sony NF-P style battery or 7.4V-24V input.
The 8-bit display offers tools like a luma histogram, false color, and focus peaking to help users monitor their audio and video. It also has anamorphic de-squeeze (1.33x, 1.5x, 2x, and custom ratios).
Additional features include zooming, image flip, gridlines, clip guides, display adjustment (contrast, sharpness, tint, color temperature, brightness, and more), and custom function settings.
Given that it doesn’t accept 6K or 8K inputs nor deliver a super-bright, high-res display, the HD7H is not designed for high-end cinematic workflow. However, given its lightweight design and palatable price point, it is built for a run-and-gun shooter on a budget. Not every user needs every possible feature.
Portkeys is no stranger to affordable monitors for videographers. The company’s LH5P II touchscreen monitor is also a popular. However, that model has a smaller screen (5.5 inches) and is four times more expensive ($399). Users get Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) resolution and a much brighter (2,200 nits) display with a full 10-bit HDR preview for the extra outlay.
For users looking to dip their toes in on-camera video monitoring, the Portkeys HD7H is available to order now for $99. It ships with a removable sunshade, side covers, a monitor mount, HDMI cables, and a power cord.
Image credits: Portkeys