Doors continue to open as home video evolves in a very empowering way. While the medium was once reserved for large studios the power has been given to almost anyone with a limited technical expertise. With Live Streaming taking the online video world by storm, it was certainly time for the hallmark of mobile cameras. Logitech recently introduced the Logitech Broadcaster, a mobile device promising not only easy use but Live Streaming in a compact grab-and-go format.
Is this the device you’ve been looking for? Is this the the evolution of the web camera?
There are plenty of solutions for mobile live streaming, though I never felt someone really took the time to research all areas of this dilemma. In my mind the relevant factors are:
- Ease of Use
- Mobility
- Picture Quality
- Flexiblity.
Let’s start by talking about the device as a whole and two major areas: Mobility & Flexibility. I own a webcam, and when I have used it for Live Streaming events one of the biggest problems I had was the wire. Since I was essentially tethered to the monitor, there was never the ability to really try any neat camera angles or tricks – just squeeze everyone into frame and hope that will work.
Mobility is one of the key features of the Logitech Broadcaster. The device is wireless and can link up to either a Mac or an iOS Device (such as an iPad or iPhone) connecting you to the UStream service. A small initial setup is required, but once it’s done it’s simply turn on the Broadcaster App and your camera and you’re good to go.The wireless functionality really helped the camera’s flexibility, allowing me to take those difficult shots.
Also featured with this device is its carrying case and sudo stand. The Logitech Broadcaster includes what looks to be a cylindrical tube to hold the camera. The tube is rather strong and can be easily tossed into a bag for easy storage. The tube also can be used as a stand, as the top of the tube is a small cup to which the camera is magnetically linked. This is the simplest way to record, but the flexibility doesn’t just stop there. If you remove the top of the tube, there is a tripod mount on the bottom of it, allowing easy attachment to existing tripods.
My only issue with this was that while it’s easy to link it magnetically, it’s not necessarily secure. Someone can easily snatch the camera and go, and the camera could easily detach and fall off if the tripod fell. In most circumstances I’ve used the camera in a secure area but it was still something that I was aware of.
The Logitech Broadcaster also comes with a charge cable, which is a Micro USB and a DC Outlet. Another nice feature is a Mic Input, allowing to stream audio from a Mixer or any other input device. It uses the standard 3.5 Headphone jack but seemed an easy fit.
Device setup is pretty simple. To begin you’ll want to download either the App from the iTunes Store or the Broadcaster Program from Logitech, depending of course on which device you plan to connect. Be sure to charge the device before attempting the setup. Once you are ready to begin, turn on the App/Program and wait for the on-screen instructions. You essentially need to take a picture of a QR Code to enter the Wireless Password information and then you should be all set up to start recording. The giant cloud button atop of the device begins streaming or recording the videos.
Picture quality was impressive. In the past most webcams had decent quality, but I really liked the Broadcaster’s framerate. I used it to record our Live version of Comic Issues, a 2-hour test run without any issues. There was always a steady connection and it was really convenient to see the screen via the iPad. We always knew when we were in frame and could easily tell the picture quality. Please keep in mind that the quality is based on your internet connection.
Overall
A really solid addition into the already long standing quality of Logitech Webcams. The Broadcaster’s wireless and ease of use are its top selling points, and its ease of transportation and rugged design are impressive. I look forward to more updates as I hope it supports YouTube Live streaming in the future.
All in all, this is a very pro-consumer camera that almost anyone can learn pretty quickly, providing the ultimate in flexibility for your video needs.