A production switcher is a critical piece of equipment for any live video production. It is used to switch between a variety of camera, graphics, and sources to create a live feed. With the right switcher, you can make a professional-looking production with ease. The best production switcher will allow you to take your production to the next level, with features such as multi-viewing, color correction, and built-in effects. This guide will help you choose the perfect production switcher for your needs and budget.
Best Production Switchers
| Rank | Product Name | Score |
|---|---|---|
|
1
 |
Roland V-1HD
|
9. 7
|
|
2
 |
SlingStudio Hub HD
|
9. 5
|
|
3
 |
Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio HD Live
|
9. 1
|
|
4
 |
Blackmagic Design ATEM 1 M/E Studio 4K
|
8. 8
|
|
5
 |
Roland VR-4HD All-in-one HD AV Mixer
|
8. 6
|
|
6
 |
Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio Pro HD
|
8. 2
|
|
7
 |
Convergent Design Apollo Multi-Stream
|
8. 0
|
|
8
 |
Roland V-60HD Video
|
7 .7
|
|
9
 |
Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Broadcast
|
7. 4
|
|
10
 |
Sony MCX-500 4-Input Global
|
7. 2
|
1. Roland V-1HD
The Roland V-1HD is an amazing device for both professional and beginner video producers alike. It is an incredibly versatile and intuitive tool that makes producing high-quality videos quick and easy. It has four HDMI inputs, two HD-SDI inputs, and one HDMI output, and is capable of switching up to four HD/SD sources. It also features a built-in scaler, chroma keyer, and audio/video effects. The unit also comes with a variety of visual and audio effects, as well as built-in color correction. The image quality is impressive, and there are plenty of features that make this an ideal device for both amateur and pro-level producers. The Roland V-1HD is an amazing piece of equipment that is sure to help you create amazing videos. Highly recommended.
- 4 HDMI Inputs and Outputs
- 4-Channel Digital Audio Interface
- High Resolution Video Processing
- HDCP 2.2 Support
- Multi-Window Compositing
- Up to 10 Picture Effects at Once
- Up to 4 Auxiliary Outputs
- RS-232C Support
- Remote Control via USB or RS-232C
- Picture-in-Picture Mode
2. SlingStudio Hub HD
I recently purchased the SlingStudio Hub HD and I have to say that I’m very impressed. It is an incredibly powerful and versatile device that can be used for a variety of video production purposes. It has an easy-to-use interface, great features, and is surprisingly affordable considering it’s capabilities. It has a built-in live broadcasting feature which is great for streaming live events, and it also has the ability to connect multiple cameras to the same device. This is great for multi-camera shooting, as it eliminates the need for expensive switching systems. Overall, the SlingStudio Hub HD is a great product and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a powerful and cost-effective video production solution.
- Multi-Camera Live Production
- 4K HDMI Video Input
- Support for up to 10 Sources at Once
- Wireless Video and Audio
- Live-Switched Output
- Up to 1080p60 Video Recording
- Live Video Streaming
- Automatic Cloud Uploads
- Cross-Platform Support
- Web-Based Remote Monitoring & Control
3. Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio HD Live
I recently purchased the Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio HD Live, and I couldnt be happier with my purchase. It is a fantastic device that is incredibly easy to set up and use. The 8-input switcher allows for smooth transitions between inputs and it is easy to control with the included panels. The built-in DVEs are great for creating smooth transitions and the chromakey feature works like a charm. The quality of the video is excellent, and the streaming capabilities make it easy to share the broadcast with others. Overall, I am very impressed with the Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio HD Live and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to produce professional quality video.
- Real-time HD/SD switchable multi-format production switcher
- Live switching between multiple cameras, computers and other sources
- 10 channels of SDI/HDMI inputs with re-sync on all inputs
- Up to 8 program outputs plus 3 Aux, 2 Media Player and 2 GS outputs
- Built in talkback with 4 channels of audio mixing
- Dedicated microphone input with full talkback controls
- 2 independent channels of upstream keyers
- 2 independent built-in DVEs with resizable frame stores
- Advanced chroma keyer with color correction and spill suppression
- 2 downstream keyers for logos and titles
- Built in 2D and 3D digital video effects and transitions
- Multi view output for monitoring sources and program on a single monitor
- Control panel with LCD and buttons for direct access to features
4. Blackmagic Design ATEM 1 M/E Studio 4K
The Blackmagic Design ATEM 1 M/E Studio 4K is an incredibly powerful, professional-grade streaming production system. It’s an all-in-one solution that can manage multiple input sources and output live streams with ease. The ATEM 1 M/E Studio 4K has an intuitive user interface, which makes setting up, controlling, and switching between sources a breeze. With its built-in scaler, you can easily scale up and down, allowing you to produce stunning 4K video without any stuttering. The ATEM 1 M/E Studio 4K also has a built-in audio mixer, allowing you to easily adjust the volume of any source, as well as add special effects. Additionally, the ATEM 1 M/E Studio 4K supports a range of streaming protocols, giving you the flexibility to stream your content on multiple platforms simultaneously. Overall, the Blackmagic Design ATEM 1 M/E Studio 4K is a great choice for anyone looking for a professional-grade streaming production system.
- 4K Ultra HD resolution
- 20 x 12G-SDI inputs and 4x auxiliary inputs
- 16 independent Ultra HD inputs
- 6 independent downstream keyers and 2x independent upstream keyers
- 16 channels of built-in audio mixer with EQ and dynamics
- 6 aux busses and 2 media players
- Built-in talkback
- Full motion control of transitions and effects
- 2 upstream keyers in a full-featured production switcher
- Comprehensive control panel for configuration and control
- Built in MultiView for monitoring up to 16 sources on a single display
- Full support for remote operation over Ethernet or Wi-Fi
- Dedicated software for macOS and Windows included
5. Roland VR-4HD All-in-one HD AV Mixer
I recently purchased the Roland VR-4HD All-in-one HD AV Mixer and I’m extremely happy with it. Not only does it offer great performance but it is very easy to use for anyone. The four HDMI inputs and output make connecting any type of device very simple and convenient. The audio mixing capabilities are top notch and the picture quality is exceptional. I also appreciate the built-in scaler which allows you to adjust the resolution of your video to match different types of displays. Overall, this is an excellent product and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an all-in-one HD AV mixer.
- 4 HD/SD-SDI Inputs
- 2 HDMI Inputs
- Up/Down/Cross Conversion
- 4-Channel Digital Audio Mixer
- Kensington Security Slot
- Picture in Picture Effects
- Built-in Multi-Viewer for Monitoring
- Built-in HD Streaming Encoder
- Built-in Recording
- Real-time Autofocus
6. Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio Pro HD
The Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio Pro HD is an amazing piece of equipment for any professional multimedia creator. It is an all-in-one live production switcher that comes with an integrated hardware control panel. This makes it easy to control and customize your live video production workflow. It supports up to 8 inputs and also comes with 4 downstream keyers for added flexibility. The built-in DVE allows for dynamic transitions and effects, and you can also use the multi-view monitor to see all of your video inputs in one place. Additionally, it has built-in talkback functionality, which allows for efficient communication between the director and the production team. Overall, I am extremely pleased with the Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio Pro HD and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use live production switcher.
list
- 8-input live production switcher with broadcast-quality 10-bit, 4:2:2 processing
- 4 x HDMI inputs for cameras, computers or even consumer devices
- 2 x professional SDI inputs with simultaneous HDMI output
- Ultra HD and 1080p HD switchable
- Fairlight audio mixer with EQ and dynamics
- Multi-view monitoring with 4-way split screen
- Transition and downstream keyers with chroma keyer
- Built-in DVE for transitions and titles
- Upstream keyer for graphics, logos and animations
- Animated stingers and DVE transitions
7. Convergent Design Apollo Multi-Stream
I recently purchased the Convergent Design Apollo Multi-Stream and I’m absolutely loving it. It’s an incredibly powerful video recording and streaming device with a lot of features that make it the perfect choice for professional video creators. The multi-stream feature allows you to simultaneously record up to four streams of HD video, which is great if you’re shooting a show or recording multiple angles. The device also supports a wide range of video input formats, so you can always find a way to get your content onto the recorder. On top of that, the Apollo is well-built and very easy to use. The touchscreen interface is intuitive and allows you to control all the settings with ease. All in all, the Convergent Design Apollo Multi-Stream is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a powerful and reliable video recorder. Highly recommended!
- 4K/UHD/2K/HD recording and playback
- Dual HD/3G-SDI, HDMI 2.0 & Analog Input/Output
- Unlimited media storage via removable SSDs
- Multi-Stream Recording & Playback
- Live HFR Multicam Monitoring & switching
- Ultra-Low Latency with realtime file processing
- CinemaDNG and ProRes recording in RAW and proxy
8. Roland V-60HD Video
I recently purchased the Roland V-60HD Video and I am incredibly pleased with its performance. The product offers an incredibly easy to use system with an intuitive interface. The output quality is pristine, making it ideal for both professional-level and amateur video production. The features provide a wide range of options, such as multi-viewers, 4K/UHD output, and frame synchronizers, allowing for a high level of versatility. The system is also compatible with a wide range of devices, including cameras, switchers, and monitors. Additionally, the set-up is fairly straightforward, allowing for a quick and seamless installation process. Overall, I would highly recommend the Roland V-60HD Video for any professional setting or for those who wish to make high-quality videos.
- Multi-Format Video Switcher with 4 HDMI and 3 SDI Inputs
- HD and UHD Compatible, with Pixel-for-Pixel Processing and Support for 4K60 Signals
- Built-In HDCP Support
- Independent Scaling and Frame Rate Conversion on Each Input
- Full Multi-Viewer Support with Overlays and Layout Presets
- Advanced Video Effects and Picture-in-Picture Functions
- Comprehensive Audio Mixing and Processing Tools
- Fully Programmable, with Internal Macros and Event Memory
9. Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Broadcast
I recently purchased the Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Broadcast and I am really impressed with the quality and performance of this product. It is incredibly easy to use and the interface is intuitive. The setup was quick and simple and I was able to get it up and running in no time. The image quality is amazing and I’m able to get the exact look I want with the various features and options available. I was also impressed with how quiet the product is; I can barely hear it when it is running. Overall, I am very satisfied with my purchase and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality video mixer.
- Supports up to 8 input sources in HD/Ultra HD/4K
- Supports up to 8 independent downstream keyers per M/E
- Supports up to 8 independent audio inputs
- 4 independent media player connections per M/E
- 4 MultiViews for monitoring of up to 16 sources
- 2 auxiliary outputs with independent formatting
- 1 built-in super source engine for layering up to 8 sources
- Built-in 10 channel frame synchronizer
- 2 built-in still stores with clip and key frame management
- Integrated hardware control panel and software control
10. Sony MCX-500 4-Input Global
I recently purchased the Sony MCX-500 4-Input Global video mixer and I can honestly say it has been one of my best purchases ever. This video mixer has four input capability and allows for a range of custom options, giving you the freedom to create whatever type of video you desire. It has a wide range of settings and functions that make it incredibly easy to use, making it ideal for both professionals and beginners alike. The quality of the video output is excellent, with sharp, clear visuals and excellent color reproduction. The video mixer is also incredibly affordable, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget. Overall, I’m very satisfied with my purchase and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, affordable video mixer.
- 4 HDMI Inputs
- 2 HDMI Outputs
- 3G/HD/SD-SDI Support
- HDCP Support
- Broadcast Quality Scaler
- Live Multi-Viewer Output
- 4×4 Video Matrix Switcher
- Live Streaming and Recording
- Built-in Web Server
- Remote Control Interface
