Gear Shorts - Near Stream VM33 2K wireless camera

The Near Stream VM33 2K wireless camera is a versatile tool for content creators, offering high-quality optics, AI-powered autofocus, and up to 40 times hybrid zoom. While it lacks NDI support, the camera’s user-friendly app, portability, and potential for firmware updates make it a cost-effective option for streaming and recording in various settings.

The Near Stream VM33 2K wireless camera is a versatile tool for content creators, with applications in various settings such as classrooms, houses of worship, weddings, and events. It features a large battery with over 6 hours of runtime, high-quality optics, and a 2K sensor with AI-powered autofocus and up to 40 times hybrid zoom. The camera can be used on a tripod or as a webcam, and it performs well in low light conditions. It is also portable and can be easily set up for recording on the go.

The camera offers full control over zoom, focus, exposure, and creative filters through its app. It has an intelligent noise-canceling microphone array that delivers clear audio, and it also has a Micro SD slot for capturing physical backups. While it is not a camcorder or security camera, it can be used in similar roles and has the ability to stream to mobile devices or be paired with multiple cameras for different perspectives.

Setting up the camera is simple, with the app automatically connecting to the cameras via Bluetooth and allowing for firmware updates and Wi-Fi network selection. The app provides a preview of all the cameras and allows for easy switching between them during streaming. It also supports adding logos and branding, and can stream to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch.

The price of the Near Stream VM33 camera may be a concern for some, but it offers cost-effective features compared to similar cameras on the market. One drawback is the lack of NDI support, which is an encrypted video transfer protocol commonly used in the industry. However, the company is working on adding NDI support through a firmware update, which would allow for seamless integration with software like OBS and the ability to have up to four 2K feeds simultaneously usable for streaming.

Overall, the Near Stream VM33 2K wireless camera stands out with its unique features, including manual focus, high-quality sensor, and optical zoom. It is a plug-and-play solution with user-friendly software, and once NDI support is added, it has the potential to become a valuable tool for content creators.