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OBSBOT Tiny 4K Review Score
generalize
The OBSBOT Tiny 4K has the same unique appeal as its more affordable 1080P variant. This is great for anyone with a virtual presentation or meeting that requires you to get up and move around.
advantage
- The AI PTZ feature is very useful and unmatched by other brands.
shortcoming
- Video quality is ok, competitors may offer great video but no PTZ
I reviewed 1080p OBSBOT Micro Basically the same as the Tiny 4K last year, but with a better camera.
These cameras are quite unique in the webcam world. They both use PTZ gimbal and AI, which enables the camera to automatically track as you move around. This technology is often used in business-focused conference cameras, which cost a lot more, so it’s good to have something more attractively priced for anyone who regularly conducts virtual presentations.
OBSBOT Tiny PTZ 4K and OBSBOT Tiny Specifications
| OBSBOT Small 4K | OBSBOT Small | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (without stand): | 89.4mm x 58mm x 58mm | 89.4mm x 58mm x 58mm |
| Dimensions (with base): | 142mm x 58mm x 58mm | 142mm x 58mm x 58mm |
| Weight (without stand) | 147 grams | 146 grams |
| Weight (with stand) | 176 grams | 175 grams |
| Maximum video resolution: | [email protected]1080p/60fps, MJPEG, H264 | 1080p/30fps, MJPEG, H264 |
| soaring | 4 | 2 |
| Focus Type: | Autofocus/Manual focus | ? |
| HDR | yes | Do not |
| vision | 86° | 90° |
| microphone | Built-in dual omnidirectional microphone noise reduction | Built-in dual omnidirectional microphone noise reduction |
| 2-axis gimbal | Gimbal installation: non-removable Controllable range: translation: ±150°; Tilt: ±45° Structure possible range: translation: ±160°; tilt: ±90° Maximum control speed: 120°/s |
Gimbal installation: non-removable Controllable range: translation: ±150°; Tilt: ±45° Structure possible range: translation: ±160°; tilt: ±90° Maximum control speed: 120°/s |
OBSBOT Tiny PTZ 4K is more than just a 4K upscaling. It has improved digital zoom thanks to the increased resolution. Then it also has autofocus and HDR.
That might not seem like much of a change, but the webcam is mostly about image quality, and 4K HDR with autofocus is a huge upgrade.
set up
As far as settings go, there really isn’t much. The camera has a USB-C port and a DC port, but it should power itself via USB-C.
The camera comes with a monitor mount clip with a magnetic attachment. I have used the webcam on my laptop and Samsung C49RG90. The back of the Samsung display is slanted, and I’ve had issues mounting the camera securely on it in the past, but this webcam has no issues.
On my laptop, the camera feels a little clunky. I had to fiddle with it a bit to get it in a safe position.
You need to download OBSBOT small camera to access its full functionality.
Using the TinyCam app, you can also update the firmware.
March 2022 Firmware:
Last month, OBSBOT released a new firmware (v1.2.3.2) that seems to introduce some useful features:
1. Added [Face AE] Function
2. New [Noise Reduction] On/Off function that allows the user to turn off the microphone noise reduction
3. New [Device Auto Sleep] function to improve sleep-wake behavior
4. New [Screen Mode] Toggle function, you can switch to portrait mode
5. Reservation [Preset Position] Setting parameters
OBSBOT application
In addition to being able to update firmware, the TinyCam app also lets you manually control the camera and access various settings.
Under System Settings, you can enable/disable gesture controls, change how it tracks you, and configure video and HDR.
In-app controls allow you to directly control gimbal and zoom or turn on AI tracking. You can also set the preset position of the gimbal.
In Use – AI Tracking and Gestures
I don’t particularly need a PTZ webcam as I usually sit still during any video calls. However, it does make life easier. There is no mess in the camera placement. On my work computer, the camera sits high, and when the camera switches, the horizontal angle it is facing shows just above my head, and that’s it.
Using the TinyCam app, I can manually control the gimbal towards my head, or I can enable AI tracking, which automatically follows my face. Buying a PTZ camera just for this might be overkill, but it does make it easier to join a video call. I usually find the process frustrating, between setting up the mic and speakers, then aligning my camera, etc.
Gestures work the same way as the previous OBSBOT. Since I tend to sit close to my computer, I prefer to use the app, but if you’re standing and showing something, then this can be very useful. Open left hand will enable/disable AI tracking, then make an L shape with thumb and fingers to control zoom.
Image quality is good for a webcam. It has a Sony 1/2.8-inch sensor, which isn’t surprising considering phone camera sensors are close to 1-inch. A webcam has never had the best camera sensor, and I’d say it’s better than average. Video quality is excellent in good lighting, but there may be some white balance issues.
Price and Alternatives
OBSBOT Tiny PTZ 4K is priced at $269.00 (excl. VAT) when Buy directly from OBSBOT. 1080P model is $199.00 (excl. VAT)
Prices from Amazon UK are currently £239 and £149. However, the 1080P model is currently on sale, normally £199. Check out Keepa, which is discounted to £149 every few weeks, with a mid-range price of £179.
Similar to my previous OBSBOT review, there is no real equivalent. All PTZ cameras on the market are geared towards commercial use in meeting rooms and are priced accordingly. For example, the Logitech PTZ Pro 2 is over £500.
Alternative consumer options lacking PTZ include:
The Logitech Brio Ultra HD costs £159 and features 4K HDR, 5x digital zoom and three different FOV options, 90°/78°/65°.
Anker recently introduced the AnkerWork B600. For £184.99, it features a 2K camera, built-in speakers and built-in lights with automatic brightness and colour adjustment.
comprehensive
Like the previous OBSBOT Tiny review. This is an excellent camera with unique features that will appeal to anyone who can benefit from PTZ capabilities. Now that many of us are working from home, it would be very beneficial to be able to conduct virtual meetings or presentations without having to retrain to a fixed camera.
Last updated on April 8, 2022 / Affiliate Links / Image from Amazon Product Advertising API
