If you are looking for an alternative to Blackmagic Design’s popular Atem Mini Pro switcher, you might not want to look any further than the YoloBox Pro or new YoloBox Mini “all-in-one” multi-cam live streaming & switching systems.
One of the bigger selling features that Yolobox switchers offer is a built-in monitor, something that you would have to purchase separately for the Atem Mini Pro and other similar products.
Another advantage is that YoloBox offers three different ways to connect and stream your content,
- Via the built-in Wi-Fi
- Via Ethernet cable
- Over 4G LTE via a modem or hotspot
Both units also boast a built-in battery, making them truly portable and ready to use anywhere, regardless of an external power source being available, whereas, the ATEM Mini Pro is powered via a DC adapter or special adapter (not included).
The Pro and Mini models also feature the ability to be powered via a USB-C cable attached to a portable power bank when necessary.
In terms of price, you will pay more initially for the Yolobox Pro and Mini switchers than you would for the ATEM Mini Pro, but when you factor in not having to purchase an external monitor, other accessories, and having the advantage of it being an all-in-one solution, it’s actually a great deal.
Keep reading below for more information about each unit.
View YoloBox Pro Pricing and Availability at Vistek
YoloBox Pro
The first thing you will notice about the Pro version is it’s large 8″ LCD touchscreen that is both bright (400 nits), easy to view and allows the unit to be controlled directly without the need for any additional equipment such as a computer.
Next, is the number connection options available.
The Pro features three HDMI inputs, one HDMI output, two USB-C port, (one for charging and another for source connection), one USB-A port (to connect a webcam) as well as a separate Line-In and Mic-In input to connect external sound sources and a headphone out port.
There is also an SD card slot for recording and/or loading graphics or video, as well as a SIM card slot which allows you to wirelessly connect to the internet when no other option is available.
In terms of features, the Pro offers picture in picture, as well as built-in graphics, image overlay, lower thirds and countdown options.
The built-in green screen option allows you to change the background to show an image or video and the built-in audio mixer allows you to select and control audio levels, source and more.
When live streaming, the Pro supports Facebook, YouTube and Twitch as well as custom RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol) endpoints.
It can also be set up to show live chat comments within the unit when streaming out over YouTube!
If you are looking to stream out over multiple platforms the Pro offers CBR (Constant Bitrate), CQ (Constant Quality) or VBR (Variable Bitrate) encoding options.
Finally, the Pro model offers up to1080p live broadcast resolution using the H.264 codec.
Key Features
- Multi-camera Encoder/Streamer/Switcher/Monitor/Recorder
- GoPro / drone Compatibility
- Ethernet / WiFi / 4G Connection
- Type-C 3.0 Interface
- 1/4″ screw hole Attachment
- 8″ LCD Display
- 400 nits Brightness
- 10000 mAh Battery Capacity (up to 4.5 hrs)
- Up to 12 V Output
View YoloBox Mini Pricing and Availability at Vistek
YoloBox Mini
The YoloBox Mini offers the same features as the Pro model, as well as a couple of upgrades, in a body that is roughly the size of an iPhone.
Unlike the larger Pro model, the Mini offers a single HDMI and USB connection for video input along with one HDMI out and a separate Mic-In and Line-In input.
There is also a headphone input for monitoring audio and the single USB-C port is used only for charging.
Like the Pro model, there is also a single SD card slot for recording and/or loading graphics or video, as well as a SIM card slot allowing the Mini to wirelessly connect to the internet when no other option is available.
An ethernet port is also available providing a hardwired connection to the internet.
The bright (500 nits) 5.5 inch LCD touchscreen is easy to view and allows the unit to be controlled directly without the need for any additional equipment such as a computer.
Thanks to it’s smaller size, it can also be used as a camera mounted monitor/recorder by switching it to camera monitor mode.
This allows you to record and save footage (with all the same features) when you aren’t using it to live stream.
The Mini offers up to 1080p 60fps broadcast quality resolution, and supports streaming to Facebook, YouTube and Twitch as well as custom RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol) endpoints.
Key Features of YoloBox Mini
- 1 x HDMI, 1 x USB In for video input; 1 x SD card for video recording; 1 x HDMI out; Mic-in & Line-In;
- Go live in 1080p 60fps;
- Direct integration with YouTube/Facebook/RTMP(s)
- Built-in multi-streaming
- Stream via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, LTE 4G
- Add and edit customizable scoreboard, built-in lower-thirds
- Add logos/watermarks/rolling captions to the stream
- Feature comment overlays to the Stream
- Records internally to SD card
- Battery life up to 3 hours
- Keep evolving with constant free software and firmware updates