DIY Teleprompter vs Professional Setup: Which Is Right for You?

Are you a content creator looking to up your on-screen game? Are you torn between investing in a professional teleprompter setup or going DIY? We get it and in this post we’ll help you decide between a DIY teleprompter and a professional teleprompter setup. We’ll also look at affordable teleprompter setups and simple teleprompter setups so you can make the right choice for your content creation.

Understanding Teleprompters

Let’s define first, what a teleprompter is and why it’s a must-have for content creators across all industries. A teleprompter setup is a display device that delivers scripts on camera seamlessly. You read from a screen while looking at the camera and it creates a more engaging and authentic connection with your audience.

In a professional teleprompter setup you have dedicated hardware for this purpose. It includes a prompter glass that reflects the text, a frame to hold the glass, a cover to prevent unwanted reflections and a platform for your camera.

The Advantages of a Professional Teleprompter Setup

The primary advantage of investing in a professional teleprompter is its ability to maintain direct eye contact with your viewers. As the text is reflected on the prompter glass, it appears right in front of your camera lens. When you read your script, your eyes naturally focus on the lens, creating the illusion of genuine eye contact. This connection enhances the authenticity and credibility of your message, making it more compelling and memorable.

Professional Teleprompter Features to Consider

If you opt for a professional teleprompter setup, consider the following features to maximize its benefits:

1. Adjustable Glass Angle: Look for a setup that allows you to adjust the angle of the reflective glass to suit different filming angles and camera heights.
2. Remote Control: A remote control can help you scroll through the script smoothly without having to reach for the device.
3. Compatibility: Ensure the teleprompter is compatible with your camera and other recording equipment.
4. Portability: If you film in various locations, a portable teleprompter setup can be beneficial.

The DIY Approach to Teleprompters

For those on a budget, a DIY teleprompter may seem like an appealing option. DIY setups often involve using everyday materials such as smartphones, tablets, or even cardboard to create a home teleprompter. However, they come with certain limitations, with the primary one being the challenge of achieving proper eye contact.

With simple teleprompter setups that you make yourself, the text might be positioned below or above the camera lens. This can lead to the speaker's eyes appearing to divert away from the audience, which is not ideal for maintaining engagement. Authentic eye contact is crucial because it fosters a connection with your audience, builds trust, and conveys confidence.

How to Build Your Own DIY Teleprompter Project

Building a DIY teleprompter can be a fun and cost-effective project. Here's a basic guide to get you started:

1. Materials Needed: Gather a clear glass or acrylic sheet, a tablet or smartphone, cardboard or a picture frame, some adhesive or tape, and a stand to hold your setup steady.
2. Construct the Frame: Create a frame using cardboard or repurpose a picture frame to hold the glass at a 45-degree angle.
3. Build a DIY Teleprompter Stand: Ensure your setup is stable by creating a DIY teleprompter stand. You can use a sturdy box or a tripod to hold the frame and glass securely in place.
4. Position the Device: Place your tablet or smartphone at the base of the frame, reflecting the text onto the glass.
5. Secure Your Camera: Position your camera behind the glass, ensuring it captures you through the transparent screen.

Content Creation Goals

When deciding between a DIY teleprompter and a professional setup, it's essential to consider your specific content creation goals. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What type of content are you producing? If you're creating professional-grade videos, a high-quality teleprompter can elevate your production value. For casual content or vlogs, a DIY setup might suffice.
• How frequently will you use the teleprompter? Regular use might justify the investment in a professional setup, while occasional use might make a DIY option more practical.
• ‍What is your budget? Determine how much you're willing to invest and explore options that fit within your financial constraints.

The Teleprompter App Solution

If you find yourself tight on budget but still want the benefits of a teleprompter, consider using a teleprompter app. Our Teleprompter App allows you to scroll through your script while recording. You can position it just below your smartphone camera to create the illusion of using an actual teleprompter device. 

The beauty of this app is its versatility: you can switch from vertical to horizontal recording by tilting your phone, making it suitable for various content platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Even though recording with your phone camera can slightly reduce resolution, our teleprompter app supports recording in 4K for enhanced quality.

Wrapping Up

In the battle of DIY teleprompter vs. professional setup, the latter clearly has the upper hand when it comes to maintaining authentic eye contact with your viewers. While investing in a quality teleprompter may require some financial commitment, it's worthwhile if you aim to consistently deliver polished and engaging content.

We hope this comparison has shed light on the importance of eye contact and the benefits of using teleprompter hardware. Remember, experimentation is key, and you should choose the setup that aligns with your content creation goals and budget.