Which ATEM Mini Is Best For Streaming & Recording?

[@tombuck]

Check out my full ATEM Mini review for a complete feature breakdown and a quick history of broadcast switchers (which explains why I think the ATEMs are so awesome): kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJ6caoRog9x9iKM

[@MattFromSMM]

Really been appreciating your videos lately. Very helpful. Thanks!

[@tombuck]

Thanks Matt! I really appreciate the kind words!

[@KimJimenez]

Thanks, Tom!! This video was exactly what I was looking for as we decide which ATEM to go for. 🙌🏻

[@tombuck]

Awesome! It can be confusing so I’m glad it was helpful 🙌

[@ykhemani]

So, I ATEMpted to resist getting an ATEM, but ultimately accepted that resistance is futile, and I am absolutely loving the ATEM Mini Pro! I was able to easily switch repeatedly between a slide deck on my computer and a whiteboard on my iPad during a workshop yesterday. The transition was more seamless than changing screen shares in Zoom, and this allowed me to go to my whiteboard more frequently than I might have otherwise. It's all your fault, Tom! Thank you, once more!

[@tombuck]

Glad you're loving it! I'm happy to take the blame/credit for this one 😁 I didn't mention it in the video, but it's also just super FUN to switch between inputs using physical buttons. I don't know what it is, but it's just a ton of fun.

[@ykhemani]

@@tombuck someone keep this man away from the buttons! ;)

[@DocMicrowave]

After many years of using an ATEM 1 m/e 4k switcher, I finally purchased my fist ATEM Mini last year. I went with the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO SDI, as it best matched the capabilities of my old switcher. For my work flow, those 4 outputs are quite handy to have. Best all around switcher in my opinion.

[@anders9006]

Fake switching… 0:24 No HDMI cables connected to the Atem :)

[@tombuck]

“Movie Magic!”

[@ChristmasClatter]

Thanks!! I needed this breakdown. You saved me some money, I was on the fence about getting one, however it’s not what I need just yet.

[@tombuck]

I’m glad it helped! I get this question a lot, so I know it can be confusing.

[@twolinesslotcars]

This is great stuff Tom! Nice run down on the differences. It really clears up any confusion on the models.

[@tombuck]

I hope so! I get this question a lot, so I thought the video might be helpful.

[@johnrichards7985]

Very nicely done, sir. Brief, and to the point. I quickly learned what I needed to know. Thanks!

[@tombuck]

Glad to hear it!

[@HomesickMac]

Great comparizon! I agree that the Atem Mini Pro is the wisest choice…. ’cause I’ve got one. Seriously, I paid it around $750 when it came out and I’m so happy with it. It helped me in the beginning to gasp what the heck an HDMI switcher was, I cut my teeth on Picture In Picture and learned to tame the built in mic preamps. My client work became very efficient by being able to use 2 cameras, switch and have two angles ready, the audio came in through a Røde Wireless Movie Maker Kit - and it was recorded directly onto a Samsung T5 SSD. In with it into FinalCut Pro for some cutting and adding titles or whatever was needed, and I was done. I’m using it also with Ecamm as the 3rd camera input since its a hassle with an M1 MacMini and despite having two top notch Thunderbolt 4 docs, I have to use the both USB inputs on the MacMini, and then bring the third camera with the Atem Mini Pro. Yet another advantage of this is that I can, if I want, connect my iPad or a computer into the Atem Mini Pro, use the PiP and I can build a scene where the only input used is the Atem, but it’s not using any of the computer’s resources to run a presentation of whataver I want to show. In any case, I’m extremely happy with my Atem Mini Pro.

[@tombuck]

You're setup is absolutely stunning, so this is great insight!

[@HomesickMac]

@@tombuck Thank you good sire!

[@technomage116]

Keep in mind its really hard to find webcams that have HDMI, so you'll be buying expensive cameras. My Atem Mini has sat on my desk, largely unused for a year and a half. I saw tom's initial video, got excited and then hit this wall. It's bizarre how few webcams have HDMI connections. I'm trying to find the cheapest way to use this thing, and thanks Tom for your video.

[@Theballroomgreenhills]

Awesome review. My question is I'm watching this in 4k res on YT and you're clearly using multicam. Any insights on your setup for making that work?

[@tombuck]

Yup! I edit all the multicam stuff together in Final Cut. I recently made a video about the process here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIq9c2prd5aEoZo

[@Theballroomgreenhills]

@@tombuck thanks! I'll check it out now. I was referring to your using the ATEM for multicam and it only recording in HD vs this vid's 4k output res. I'm guessing the linked vid talks about that?

[@thenestpodcast]

@@Theballroomgreenhills wondering the same thing!

[@brownmantx]

Greetings Tom, I’d like to use the Atem Mini Pro with my MacBook Pro (13 inch). My question is charging my MacBook Pro: How do you use the Atem Mini Pro (which has a power source), and charge the MacBook Pro? Is there a risk of too much power with two power sources connected to my MacBook Pro?

[@BasicFilmmaker]

Totally agree. For the "normal" KZbin type creator, the ATEM Mini Pro and the way to go. :)

[@tombuck]

It’s really great!

[@tedz2000]

Anyone watching I'll wait til the next one come out... coming sooner rather than lately hopefully....Good stuff Tom always..

[@tombuck]

I know NAB is coming up, so maybe there will be updates then. I’m sure a 4K ATEM is in the works at some point.

[@hartzogLovesScience]

You and Aaron are my editing gurus! I agree, for I am using the ATEM Pro. As a high school teacher, I have not gone beyond the ATEM Pro’s limitations.

[@tombuck]

I'm honored to be names alongside the master himself 🙏

[@braxtongilbert]

Fantastic bro. I have used SO many of your videos to be able to set my studio up. THANK YOU.

[@tombuck]

Oh man, I’m so happy to hear this! Thanks Braxton!

[@Kilmej78]

Same here bought a rodcaster and a atem mini pro based on your recommendation.

[@PatrickRambles]

Great video, Tom! I wish Atem would change the frequency in their backlighting, our frame rates no likey 😅

[@tombuck]

Definitely frustrating whenever I film it 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@PatrickRambles]

@@tombuck same here 😅

[@SoundSpeeds]

Do the ATEMs power cameras via HDMI?

[@tombuck]

They do not 😬

[@aroncontinuousconversation]

I can totally picture this 2:51 "shut up! I'm trying to work here" haha

[@tombuck]

It’s very annoying at times 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@Yellowjacket1977]

Hey Tom. I am about to make my selection and purchase a multi-switcher. I have this video (and your videos on the Black Magic gear), and am very impressed. But, I saw a video on some of the new Roland gear (Roland AeroCaster Livestreaming System). I like it because it uses XLR mic inputs and all of the video inputs are wireless, all done through wi-fi. Have you done a video on any of the Roland gear? The prices are about the same. Thanks! Love your channel!!

[@keithlancaster5489]

Can you explain (or point me at a video you made) that discusses how you use an ATEM in conjunction with Ecamm? When using Ecamm, are you using the Atem to change camera angles, for example, or are you doing that within Ecamm?

[@tombuck]

For me it's both. The ATEM handles most of the input switching, while Ecamm switches between scenes. This isn't exactly what you're looking for, but it shows some of the workflow: kzbin.info/www/bejne/anm1pZ2bdrZ3odU

[@keithlancaster5489]

@@tombuck Thanks. Do you stream directly from Ecamm or do you use the streaming function in the Atem? If the Atem, how do you accomplish that?

[@johnheiser2604]

I bought the pro several weeks ago and am busting to get a chance to sit down and work my way through it.

[@tombuck]

There's so much to learn with these things!

[@c.z.johnson3266]

So, I am looking for a device similar to this, that can be used to switch between cameras and such. Primarily I need this for my podcast as I'm hoping to start filming my show (I use MaonoCaster for audio) so having the ability to switch camera angles on the fly would be really nice for the podcast and a lot less editing. I am also looking for a device like this for my Film projects, so that I'm not editing basically 3-4 films into one, again less editing. So what do you suggest I get for each, or is there something that would work great for both? Thanks!

[@tombuck]

The ATEM seems like it might be right up your alley. You might also want to check out the YoloBox Pro, which is really great for mobile streaming, or streaming without needing to be connected to a computer.

[@c.z.johnson3266]

@@tombuck Sweet! Thanks for the advice!

[@rss_thms]

Great video. Question: do you have any recommendations for HDMI cables, splitters, etc? We're just getting into live streaming at work and have a limited budget, so don't wanna purchase the 'wrong' stuff.

[@johnniejay4458]

Hey Tom I have been watching videos to see how to connect with the RodeCaster Pro II the ATEM Mini Pro...I haven't found that video yet...

[@frankfengzhu]

Awesome video Tom! We are also releasing our third product model tomorrow: YoloBox Mini!! I haven't wrote to you mainly because it's not that "NEW". Maybe I should still write to you!

[@tombuck]

Mini?! That sounds super cool! I’d love to know more!

[@frankfengzhu]

@@tombuck Perfect! Even more, if you are interested, we'd love to invite you and Heather to join the Giveaway I sent on Instagram earlier. We'll have a live panel to announce the winner at the end of the month, if you are interested!

[@baileystone8395]

@@frankfengzhu I thought I should just mention that the KZbin studio app gets really confused with comment replies, so Tom might not be able to see your reply to him, even though it is posted. I’ve entered for the giveaway, and would love to review the Mini too because I haven’t used any yoloboxes, so it’d be super cool

[@ykhemani]

Thanks for the overview, Tom! How stable have you found the ATEM Mini Pro? Can you leave it powered all the time? We used an SDI video DA from Blackmagic a few years back, left it powered on all the time, and had it flake during a live event. Someone suggested afterwards that the Blackmagics should be power-cycled periodically, which, as you mentioned, wasn't a design consideration given the absence of a power switch. (it was later replaced with a DA from Kramer) Can you leave the ATEM Mini Pro powered on all the time, or should you periodically power cycle it? Thanks!

[@tombuck]

I don’t usually leave mine on all the time, but they’ve both been pretty stable. No issues there (sometimes I do forget to turn them off).

[@ykhemani]

@@tombuck great, thank you so much!

[@stephenlewis9436]

Tom the Man! Love the review videos as always! Quick question for you. Do you cover your microphone and cameras when you are not recording (dust covers etc)?

[@tombuck]

I keep all my cameras in drawers and I have Decksaver covers for my ATEM and Rodecaster 👍 Plus I just clean a lot 😬

[@toriless]

If it changes doing that you have defective bearings that are than shifted into a quieter alignment.

[@tombuck]

That makes perfect sense. Thank you!

[@djgonz123]

Tom Buck- The King of puns. Love your content. Been deciding recently which atem to get and the algorithm came in clutch for me with your video. Thank you.

[@tombuck]

Oh nice! I love the hear that!

[@djgonz123]

@@tombuck decided to go for the atem mini pro due to the multiview option and able to stream directly. Thank you for the great info .

[@HeresMo]

My extreme iso has never randomly ramped up the fan. Although it stays on all the time. I usually run it in 2-3 hour sessions.

[@tombuck]

That's good to know! I really do think it's just mine being weird since I haven't heard of anyone else having this problem.

[@ListenWeekly]

I know this is an older video, yet hopefully this can be answered. It sounds like the Atem mini Pro can record to an external drive OR to a computer. If you use a splitter could it record to both? Thanks

[@tombuck]

It has two USB ports, so you can do both simultaneously 👍

[@pakiparler]

Quick question. Can i use m50 for longer podcast with Atom mini Pro or do i need a camera with intervalometer ?

[@tombuck]

The M50 is a little tricky. You can connect it to an ATEM, but since it doesn't have clean HDMI out, you'll still have the focus box on screen. I THINK switching to manual focus can make it go away, but I might be wrong.

[@pakiparler]

I’m less worried about the auto focus and more about the 30 min record limit on the camera. Would it work?

[@Casuallz]

I enjoy your Videos and your puns are silly but fun. You probably get thousands of questions, and this is a older video but I will ATEMpt anyway. As of now February 2, 2023 is it still possible to get Davinci Resolve Studio with the purchase ATEM Mini Pro ISO. Do I need to do anything particular to get a studio license? Thank you for your content even if you don’t get to respond.

[@mkushin]

I still haven't been able to really get recording quality that I'm happy with through the ATEM Mini and a Sony a6300. I had visions of using OBS to record videos, but I can't get the same quality out of it as I can with my Camlink. This is a great break down.

[@MrBolterrr]

I need a device like this to use with my 5-6 4k USB Cams ( Elgato Facecam Pro). My PC is always cutting off and resetting, and its just a hassle. Suggestions? Need help

[@TanLay1]

Hi Tom - there's no simultaneous recording + streaming option right?

[@tombuck]

The Extremes have two USB ports so you can record/send an output to stream simultaneously. I haven't tried it, but you should also be able to send a stream signal via the ethernet port too. Fortunately most streaming software also lets you stream and record at the same time- I do that a lot with Ecamm Live.

[@TheSquash]

Quick question! So at some point I’ll be picking up an ATEM, and I was wondering if the unit converts the resolution and frame rates of the sources being put into it or if the resolution and frame rate of the input would need to be set to match the ATEM’s parameters. My wacky mad scientist idea was to game on my 2k 144hz monitor and take that monitor’s HDMI output and send it to the ATEM instead of using resource taxing software capturing methods in OBS. Would this be efficient in offloading the video processing?

[@johnniejay4458]

@tombuck I am grateful for you and your channel. I have made decisions to purchase several items because of you and the way you deliver the messages I need to move forward. I do however have a question about that phone on thing...I can't find your vid...a lot of content to go through...help me once again!?

[@johnniejay4458]

I am doing various podcasts...but we will be producing a mental health podcast very soon

[@tombuck]

It's so funny you ask this because I'm literally working on that video RIGHT NOW 😁 The new Blackmagic Camera app lets you send a clean HDMI signal from an iPhone, which means you can then connect it to an ATEM (the app is free, by the way). There are a few hiccups with latency, but I'll dive into that in the video.

[@johnniejay4458]

@@tombuck Awesome! Also, if you could link me to the video or tell me what app that was you were using to talk to your wife in a "Caller/Interview" session. I would appreciate it...(When you have a moment)

[@tombuck]

@@johnniejay4458 we usually use Ecamm Live, but sometimes just the phone option on the Rodecaster 👍

[@johnniejay4458]

@@tombuck Thank You So Much!

[@mattwruff]

I setup a couple for customers and what can I say they are in fact amazing but to sell at that price they are cheap, I think you know what I mean. I don't do live stream (yet) but I more interested in the look and fill of the Epiphan Pearl/nano/mini boxes that are defiantly more expensive but I like there build quality and operations. I will be looking next year so who know what will happen between now and then!

[@tombuck]

I think that’s been Blackmagic’s MO for a while now: put a ton of great features in something but sacrifice build quality to make it affordable.

[@PeteBreen]

Have an Atom X Cast, but debating an ITEM at the moment - thanks for this video Tom.

[@tombuck]

I haven’t heard of the Atom! I’m happy that there are lots of competing products in this space though.

[@justathought256]

Hey Help!!! before I make a purchase on BM Design I no longer see the atem mini.. all i see is the atem mini pro, pro iso and extreme.. I want the pro at 295 now but I dont see the atem mini at all is it discontinued and they dropped the price of the pro?????!!!!! MEDIC!!!!!!

[@tombuck]

Wow it looks like they really did lower the prices! That's awesome. The ATEM Mini Pro at $295 is an absolute steal.

[@JasonTaylor-po5xc]

The lack of 4k is the biggest issue for me. I have moved to a full 4k workflow and I really don't want to go back.

[@tombuck]

The higher end ATEMs (the bigger ones made for broadcast) do have some 4K options, but they’re more expensive.

[@DissertationAcademy]

Tom I have the same problem with the fan! Very annoying! The only way to turn it off is by switching the extreme iso off and on! I was planning to actually post about this on reddit (blackmagic group) as it is an issue when you are delivering a keynote!

[@tombuck]

Interesting to know I'm not the only one! I've tried different firmware versions to no avail. The fact that it responds to a physical bump makes me think it's a defect. Sometimes it does rev up in the middle of a stream though and is super distracting. Other times it doesn't make a sound for several weeks on end 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@DissertationAcademy]

@@tombuck Exactly like mine. Mine tends to happen more when I am recording in ISO onto the SSD, but not necessarily. Mine also gets extremely hot. Apparently you should have all the 8 inputs with cables attached to the ATEM as it is part of the cooling system - some of the heat is dissipated through the hdmi cables (I don't do this now but had it like this in the past).

[@ygiagam]

Excellent Video -- I love the puns.

[@JihadPowell]

So which one did you use in the making of this video because I have it it's 4K

[@technomage116]

I got an ATEM mini at your recommendation. Now I can't find any affordable webcams that have an HDMI out. Is there a way to convert USB to HDMI so I can switch with the ATEM? I don't want to buy an expensive camera right now, but strangely enough, whenever I search Amazon or Google, they give me HDMI female to USB males. I can't find any USB female to HDMI male. really bizarre.

[@tombuck]

USB to HDMI is a tricky thing, and I don't personally know of any solutions. Fortunately most other cameras have some sort of HDMI output. I've used everything from broadcast cameras to GoPros/point and shoot cameras with the ATEMs and they've all worked pretty well. They've talked about allowing the USB port to act as a webcam input with a future firmware update, but as far as I know, it hasn't happened yet.

[@localliquidators]

is this also a way to bypass the record limit in cameras?

[@tombuck]

Yes, it can definitely help since the camera doesn't have to actually be recording.

[@localliquidators]

@@tombuck one more question.. You said on the atem mini extreme iso had two microphone inputs, does that mean it will only take two mics and couldn't connect the other guests mics too?

[@blakepace]

So Tom, are you a FAN of the sounds coming forth as you powerfully VENT (RANt?). Oh well, back to the video. Lessee, where was i? Oh yeah, 3:05. P.S. keep those puns and letters coming.

[@computerjantje]

I still cannot get used to the breaking of video basics rule to both watch in the camera and at another (fictional) person but you cannot mix this. You know this mistake is typical KZbin because it started here with the amateur broadcasters who didn't know anything about video right? Also the flickering of the atem lights in the video is easy to avoid (frame rate of the camera). Normally I would not nag about this but your lighting is pro, your audio is pro, your composition is pro and your presentation is pro and this is a channel about video equipment so these little mistakes are expected :)

[@Slipsch]

@tom are you going to review Roland V-600UHD?

[@tombuck]

I haven't been able to try the Roland yet, but their older mixers that I've used in previous jobs were quite good (although expensive), so I would bet they've done a nice job.

[@Slipsch]

@@tombuck Roland needs to send you some of their products man. Sennheiser sent you the MKH50 and you single handedly converted many of us including myself into MKH50 users. I'm looking at the Roland UVC-02. It's very similar to the Rode Stream X but with just 1080p, granted that it came out a year ago at least. But the Roland seems more robust in terms of build quality.

[@LokeyTavs]

Thanks, Tom!

[@tombuck]

You're welcome!

[@ejazmir409]

Can atem mini pro be used as a keyboard for desktop core i9 PC?

[@tombuck]

No, despite all the buttons it's not assignable like a Stream Deck or something along those lines would be.

[@RPMusicStudios]

The Buck stops at Tom

[@tombuck]

Unfortunately my bucks don't stop at my wallet 🫠

[@RPMusicStudios]

@@tombuck I hear ya on that my friend. I just started my channel a year ago and my credit score is not getting any better. Lol

[@jalabi99]

If only they had 4K streaming output, they would be perfect. But that Yolobox Pro though... Decisions are hard! XD

[@tombuck]

There is a higher end 4K ATEM, but it's significantly bigger than the Minis. I'm sure they'll update the Minis with 4K at some point though.

[@zgle]

Do these units still have the issue with the USB-C port outputting full range 0-255 video instead of having an option of 16-235? This is is crushing blacks when used as a webcam source for at least browser based apps.

[@tombuck]

Honestly, I can't say for certain. What I can say is that the image coming from the ATEM matches what I see on the camera really well, so it doesn't seem to degrade the signal.

[@carlopisciotta4333]

Hi. How do I record multicam 4K? Do you know any alternative?

[@tombuck]

You can check out the Elgato CamLink Pro or Blackmagic DeckLink Quad capture cards. They're not physical switchers, but they each have 4 separate 4K inputs. If you have a PC, it can just slide into a card slot, but if you have a Mac, then you'll need to get an external enclosure for them.

[@beardedkirby]

I cannot get my Sony zv e10 to show up on any hdmi port on the pro any suggestion?

[@tombuck]

The first thing I always check is the cable- sometimes they just go bad or aren't compatible. I can't remember for sure, but there may also be a menu setting in the ZV-E10 where you need to enable HDMI output.

[@AgusHin]

Hi from Indonesia 🤩

[@tombuck]

Hi from California!

[@Dyils]

What is that mixer?

[@tombuck]

The Rodecaster Pro

[@ROBOTRIX_eu]

..in the future, maybe!

[@tiniarjem5961]

Kawan baru nyimak videonya sampai selesai kk 👍👍 tetap semangat dan sukses selalu

[@tombuck]

Terima kasih atas kata-kata yang baik!

[@prisual]

ATEM Mini is most suitable for live streaming and recording with prisual ptz camera😁

[@treffensaintjohnllc2913]

I cannot recommend this product, the ATEM mini series. The HDMI output has a history of failing. I bought a unit a year ago and the HDMI output had gone bad after a dozen or so uses. Then recently I bought another one. This brand new unit out of the box had the same problem after a single day - I sent it back to B&H this morning. Next, I was getting some equipment at a broadcast rental house in Tempe Arizona and my sales contact had an ATEM Mini on his desk with the same problem. To top it off, my video engineer had an ATEM Mini that was flickering on the HDMI yesterday - he told me these ATEM Minis are prone to this problem. I'm moving to another manufacturer, probably Roland. Not worth the risk using ATEM products. They will go down for sure.

[@tombuck]

I've been using these for years and I haven't had that issue, but I'm glad you shared your experience so that others know to at least be aware of it.

[@practicemanager3640]

I like your puns😊👍🏻

[@tombuck]

Hey thanks! Lots of people don't 😅

[@harsha345155]

They should make a 4k version. 1080p is getting outdated.

[@tombuck]

There is a 4K ATEM, but it's not part of the Mini lineup (it's a much bigger unit). I'm sure they'll add a 4K Mini at some point though.

[@J-Dawg-1]

The ATEM mini Pro is now $295.

[@sintituloporalguien]

We are all fans of the fan

[@WaltherLigtvoet]

The extreme seems to me like extremely complicated

[@tombuck]

The buttons are fun!

[@jenspraest]

don't care about the information, just here for the jokes

[@kishorijubhagwatrasdhara735]

Sir plz change the language dabbing hindi language my full helpfull

[@jaspermauriceoenema3624]

First!!!