I tested this $1,200 PTZ camera that's got creators buzzing, and it didn't let me down

When it comes to the creator space, cameras are integral to the content-making process. But not all cameras are applicable for every creator. For example, a New York City vlogger is less likely to use a high-end cinema camera to capture their footage, as the fast-paced movement (and chaos) doesn’t make for the friendliest shooting environment.

Creators need the correct tool for the job. 

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Obsbot has done a fascinating job offering various cameras for creators and non-creators alike. All at a great value. A few weeks ago, I visited Obsbot in their booth at NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) to get a look at their camera offering for creators. In particular, I was curious to see the Obsbot Tail 2 PTZR

When you first see the Tail 2 PTZR or any of the other camera models from Obsbot, you’d think you’re looking at an object found on a Pixar R&D desk. The camera has a bit of a bell-shaped design, coupled with a smooth panning gimbal and tilting head. 

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The build quality isn’t a cheap plastic feel, but more of a solid mix of sturdy plastics and metallic composite. When you’re charging more than $1,000 for a camera, this hardware should be a minimum. It’s an elegant piece of equipment. But, how well does it work for creators? 

The tech that you’re getting

The Tail 2 I/O includes two USB-C ports for power and data transfer, an Ethernet port for network connectivity and power over Ethernet (PoE), an SDI port, and a full-size HDMI port. It touts a 1/1.5-inch image sensor capable of recording up to 4K video at 60 frames per second locally on a MicroSD card, or over HDMI output. 

But the Tail 2 also offers SDI output up to 1080p 60 frames per second, NDI up to 4K 60 frames per second. This is great news for creators who are looking for a camera beyond the standard “webcam” look and feel. 

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For audio, there’s a 3.5mm port for TRS microphones. Everything is pretty standard as far as a camera is concerned, but the added SDI and Ethernet jacks are a game-changer for some workflows.

How the Obsbot Tail 2 PTZR performs

This camera is well-suited for creators looking to step up their livestream or broadcasting operations. The image quality is beautiful and clear. If you’re a broadcaster with a “talking head” format, the Tail 2 PTZR will make you look great with optics that allow you to have a mechanical zoom to show off a wider view of your set, or a more intimate, tighter frame for when you’re looking to make a point in your conversation. 

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The I/O makes it easy to integrate into your set via USB or your HDMI video switcher, which most creators use these days as a multicam setup. Just mount the camera on a tripod and run your cabling accordingly. 

If your set allows you to add your cameras to your local area network, you’re in great shape with the Tail 2. This camera offers Ethernet connectivity and is compatible with NDI. The NDI standard allows for seamless integration and control of audio/video equipment within a broadcast environment of any level. 

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This integration is great for handling exposure settings and even panning, tilting, or zooming with almost no latency — hence the “PTZR” in the model name. It’s a great workflow built right into the Tail 2. But for those creators who can’t connect their camera over ethernet, the mobile app works great to offer these same controls.

Let’s talk about the AI

In this day and age, it’s hard to find a tech product that doesn’t mention artificial intelligence (AI). And most of the time, said AI is average at best. To Obsbot’s credit, the AI integrated into its camera is solid. The current version 2.0 of the AI offers much better subject detection and tracking capabilities. 

I’ll admit, the original Obsbot tail had pretty good motion tracking. I previously tested the original camera and tracking system five years ago and was pleasantly surprised at how well the tracking was. Version 2.0 does not disappoint. As part of my testing and challenge, I again leaned on my pet dog. This time, “Biscuit” was tracked in my studio setting. 

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I mounted the camera at a low angle on my studio floor. Close to random cables running into my desk and around other tripods on my set. When I tasked the Obsbot software to track my dog, it handled it effortlessly. Regardless of his moving around and through the studio. Even when he left the frame for a few minutes, upon his return, the Tail 2 immediately locked onto him, allowing him as if he had never left the room. 

The AI really does a great job of auto-framing and zooming in on the subject. The combination of AI and great hardware is harmonious. Thanks to the Tail 2’s smooth, gliding gimbal. In extreme cases, the integrated gimbal even allows for rotation to keep the camera perfectly level. I don’t think this feature is necessary for most broadcasters, but it’s available. Hence the “R” in “PTZR.”

ZDNET’s buying advice

The Tail 2 PTZR is a massive upgrade over the other camera models offered by Obsbot. This camera focuses on the creator who not only wants to engage with their audience in a quick livestream, but also the creator who is looking to elevate the image quality of their multicam broadcast set. 

It’s an ideal choice for interviews or multi-person podcast videos. What really seals the deal with the Tail2. PTZR for me is the professional-grade I/O, which elevates the value camera as it gives creators more flexibility in its use. You can preorder the Tail 2 PTZR right now for $1,199, and it’s expected to ship at the end of May 2025.