When presenting or performing a longer script to the camera, a decent teleprompter is a must. Depending on where you shop, these things can be prohibitively expensive. This post will run through some of the best cheap teleprompter options out there.
We’ll also discuss some teleprompter apps that can help give your best performance.
Best Budget-Friendly Teleprompters: Our Top Picks
The list below contains some of the best teleprompters for professionals on a budget.
1. Padcaster Parrot Teleprompter
First on our list is a portable teleprompter from Padcaster. The Parrot Teleprompter can be attached to most modern smartphones for convenient, on-the-go teleprompting. Flexibility is the name of the game here; this device clips effortlessly onto most DSLR cameras and phones.
The 70/30 beam splitter glass is surprisingly high-quality considering the price point. Your text will be displayed cleanly and clearly. If you’re wondering how you’ll display your script on a smartphone, the Padcaster Parrot comes with a link to a handy app that is completely free.
Text scaling and display are all handled very well. As the app is purpose-built for this device, you should have no trouble getting your teleprompter kit up and running. As far as affordable options go, this is one of the best teleprompters out there.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Works with most smartphones and DSLRs
- Free app
Cons:
- The free app has not yet been updated to support iOS 14
2. Caddie Buddy
This is a fantastic teleprompter kit for professionals who need a portable teleprompter. The 70/30 beam splitter glass reflects a perfect image of your script for simple, no-fuss presenting. The aluminum case that comes with this model is a nice touch.
It gives tons of confidence when carrying your kit from place to place. The Caddie Buddy is refreshingly easy to set up and is compatible with virtually all smartphones and tablets. What stands out with this portable teleprompter is the quality of the materials used.
Each part of the Caddie Buddy has been “proudly made in the USA”. Everything from the included hood to the attachment clips seems well-made and durable.
Pros:
- Great build quality
- Simple to set up
- Included carry case
Cons:
- You’ll need to use a third-party app for your scripts
3. Glide Gear TMP100
This option from Glide Gear comes with a number of considerations that make the life of a professional much easier. Everything from the high-quality beam splitter to the optional carry case has been well considered on this teleprompter.
This Glide Gear teleprompter is collapsible for easy transport with a significantly smaller footprint. Moving from set to set will be no problem thanks to the optional carry case with adjustable straps. The protective design should keep things safe while you’re moving around.
Glide Gear has built a decent reputation as a reliable name in the industry and this model certainly lives up to the family name. If you’re looking for an affordable teleprompter with minimal compromises, this is a great option.
Pros:
- Collapsible teleprompter design
- High-quality beamsplitter glass
- Optional carry case is protective and comfortable
Cons:
- The teleprompter glass is fixed at a 45-degree angle which is quite low for some people
4. PT Elite Ikan Teleprompter
The PT Elite is a universal teleprompter from Ikan that represents phenomenal value for money in our opinion. It’s a touch pricier than some other options on this list, but it’s worth the money if it’s within your budget.
The mount design on this teleprompter is universal, meaning it can accommodate virtually any compact tablet that works with a third-party teleprompter app. The baseplate on this model uses the industry standard 15mm size so you shouldn’t encounter many compatibility issues no matter what gear you use.
The PT Elite also doubles as a reliable camera support system when you don’t need a teleprompter. If you already know you need a camera mount for your workflow, this teleprompter could save you a fair bit of money by doing two jobs in one.
Pros:
- Doubles as a camera support system
- Universal teleprompter
- Excellent build quality
Cons:
- Set up takes longer than with other models
5. Leeventi Teleprompter v3.0
This is an ultra-affordable teleprompter with an included remote control and stable design. While the cheaper price tag does come with some compromises, this is still a brilliant option for beginners or professionals who really need to cut back their budget.
This Leveenti teleprompter kit is compatible with nearly any tablet or smartphone and packs away flat when not in use. The remote control on this model deserves a mention.
This teleprompter comes with a year’s license to use Leeventi’s proprietary software that allows you to control the flow and direction of your script with ease.
This is particularly useful in rehearsals or with multiple takes where it’s much more convenient to quickly scroll back to the top of your script without fiddling around with your tablet. The teleprompter glass on this model is well-designed and allows for perfect light transmission when filming your presenter.
While setup with this teleprompter takes a little longer than we’d like, it represents excellent value for money in our opinion.
Pros:
- Super-low price point
- The remote control works well
- The screen projects easy-to-read text
Cons:
- The license for the included software only lasts a year
- Setup takes a few steps
6. iLight Pro Teleprompter
This is a great mid-range teleprompter with professional features and phenomenal build quality. The aluminum build of the iLight Pro makes for a durable device that’s lightweight and portable. The foldable design of this teleprompter adds a further boost to portability.
The included remote works very well and is laughably easy to set up. It works with an app that is available on both iOS and Android. An important aspect of performing to a teleprompter is making sure you have the angle set just-right.
The teleprompter glass on this model is completely adjustable, meaning you’ll always have your script reflecting at precisely the angle you need. Overall this is a great choice for those who can’t stretch to a high-end teleprompter but need something a little more premium.
Pros:
- Foldable design
- The included remote is easy to set up
- Adjustable teleprompter glass
Cons:
- Assembly is a little fiddly if you’ve never used it before
7. Desview T2 Teleprompter
Ideal for vloggers or teachers working remotely, this portable teleprompter packs a number of handy features into a surprisingly small package. The Desview T2 works with most smartphone and DSLR camera brands and reflects crisp, easy-to-read text onto a high-definition display.
Like some of the other teleprompters on this list, this model uses a free smartphone and tablet app that lets users control their scripts with the included bluetooth remote. Features like this are fantastic for working professionals, as they can significantly improve the efficiency of your workflow.
The adjustable lens on this teleprompter allows it to seamlessly accommodate a wide variety of devices and cameras. For a flexible, effective teleprompter that won’t break the bank, consider this option from Desview.
Pros:
- Handy remote
- Adjustable lens for many different devices
- High-definition display
Cons:
- The affordable price comes with some compromises in build quality
8. AMBITFUL Teleprompter Kit
The tripod mount on this teleprompter is a bare-bones solution that works remarkably well. This simple approach allows AMBITFUL to price this model very competitively. While you won’t find all the features of a high-end teleprompter here, this should be more than enough to get the job done for most people.
The mounting system for this teleprompter is compatible with most modern smartphones and reflects an image that is clear and effective. If you’re a beginner and need something simple that is easy to set up, clear down and understand, this is the teleprompter for you.
Pros:
- Great for beginners
- Included remote
- Works with most smartphones
Cons:
- The recommended smartphone app is only available on Android
9. KEA YISOFINE Q2 Mini Teleprompter
The compact footprint of this teleprompter allows it to fit snuggly on top of even the smallest desks. If you’re a YouTuber or content creator with limited space, this one won’t let you down. The construction is surprisingly well-thought-out for a device that costs so little.
Light bumps and jostling shouldn’t put you out of action. Whether you’re using a smartphone or a compact tablet, the YISOFINE Q2 will hold it snuggly in place while you present your clearly legible script.
It’s quick and easy to adjust the orientation of this teleprompter; both landscape and vertical shooting is just a few moments away. An optional tripod mount and DSLR accessory can be added for an additional fee.
Pros:
- Compact design
- Simple adjustments for vertical or horizontal shooting
- Well constructed
Cons:
- You’ll want to use a third-party app; the recommended software isn’t great
10. Large Portable Teleprompter
This model combines affordability and quality perfectly. The industry-standard design is durable and remarkably easy to use. Even a complete beginner should get to grips with this device relatively quickly.
The simple design of this prompter can provide some much-needed confidence when presenting to camera. Most smartphones and tablets fit effortlessly, and the foldable design of this option makes this device a joy to carry with you from job to job.
This may be the last item on our list, but it’s certainly not the least.
Best Teleprompter Apps
Many teleprompters come with their own recommended apps designed to work in tandem with the specific device you’ve purchased. It’s worth mentioning, though, that there are plenty of third-party options out there. In some cases, these apps may work much better than the proprietary offerings.
The options below are some of our favourite apps for teleprompters.
PromptSmart Lite
This is a free version of the PromptSmart app. It’s available on iOS for iPad users and does a fantastic job of presenting your script clearly. The free version provides users with a bare-bones-but-effective suite of tools for working with your text.
Pro users can upgrade and access features like intelligent voice tracking and unlimited document uploads.
Simple Teleprompter
This is a refreshingly uncomplicated Android app that gives you everything you need and nothing you don’t. A simple settings screen allows users to tweak things like scroll speed and delay. If you’re using an Android smartphone or tablet with your teleprompter, this is a great option.
Selvi App
If you’re constantly jumping between different devices and need an app with a bit more flexibility, Selvi might be the answer. This
option works for both Android and iOS and comes with a decent amount of control in the settings menu.
Parrot App
This app is built by Padcaster for their specific line of products, but it works great with other teleprompters too. It’s available on both Android and iOS and comes with a level of polish that other apps struggle to reach. You’ll be up and running with your script in no time.
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Final Thoughts
The best teleprompter is the one that fits your needs. It’s best to closely consider how much money you can afford to spend on a new piece of kit. If you’re just starting out and need something to help you learn, an uncomplicated budget option will probably be the way to go.
If you’re a seasoned pro looking for a backup prompter, one of the mid-range options from the list above won’t disappoint. Whichever product you choose, we hope you’re camera-ready on the night!
