SmallRig has been releasing new products that cover a wide variety of production solutions. They introduced two collaborations with popular filmmakers, including Potato Jet (Gene Nagata) on a new tripod, and Brandon Li on a special, multi-use camera cage and case for the iPhone 16 Pro / Pro Max. Additionally, they released a heavy-duty fluid head tripod with a payload of up to 13.2 lbs (6 kg).

SmallRig Rotating Side Handle with Trigger REC – features

If you’re using select Blackmagic Design BMPCC series, Canon EOS, and Sony mirrorless cameras regularly, particularly handheld and without a camera cage, you may want to take a look at the new SmallRig Rotating Side Handle. It’s been ergonomically designed to comfortably and securely fit in your hand and will help reduce fatigue when shooting for extended periods.

One of the main features is the record button at the top, allowing for easy start and stop of recording while filming. The REC function works with select cameras that include Canon EOS and Blackmagic Design BMPCC series. Plus the Sony Alpha 1 / Alpha 7 / Alpha 9 series, and the FX3 and FX30.

It also recharges quickly via USB-C, although certain models, including the Canon EOS and BMPCC cameras, require an NP-F550 / F570 to power.

The full list of features include:

• Ergonomically designed secure grip for smooth filming, reducing hand fatigue with 360° rotation.
• Easily start and stop recording from the SmallRig Rotating Side Handle with the REC button. Includes a control cable for the camera.
• One-click stepless rotation makes it easy to adjust the Side Handle to fit your shooting needs.
• Cold shoe mount, 1/4”-20 thread holes, and a wrist strap slot. You can add a variety of accessories to the Rotating Side Handle.
• Adjustable NATO clamp with a width range of 16mm to 20mm (0.6” to 0.8”).
• USB-C power output supporting PD (power delivery). The charging is fast, so you’ll be able to get back to filming.
• For Canon EOS and Blackmagic Design BMPCC cameras, an NP-F550 / F570 battery is required to use the REC function. Note: The Canon EOS R5C and BMPCC 6K Pro are incompatible with powering.

Price and availability 

The Canon EOS and Blackmagic BMPCC series version of the SmallRig Rotating Side Handle with Trigger REC retails for $134.99 (NP-F550 / F570 batteries sold separately). The version for selected Sony mirrorless cameras costs $129.99. Get more information on the Blackmagic and Canon versions here, and the Sony version here.

Are you using any SmallRig products? What are your thoughts on the new Rotating Side Handle with Trigger REC? Let us know in the comments below!

At the beginning of September 2024, Canon announced the EOS C80. This compact camera features the same 6K BSI Full Frame image sensor as the Canon EOS C400, and it includes numerous Canon EOS C70 user feedback, including a new brighter built-in screen, the addition of a 12G-SDI output port, an improved autofocus system, a new triple base ISO, and so on. My colleague Johnnie did an entire review of the camera that you can watch here. The Canon EOS C80 was even elected as one of CineD’s cameras of the year.

As the camera starts to be delivered to content creators worldwide, more manufacturers are beginning to release their rigging solutions for it. Dutch manufacturer Vocas is joining the party by releasing a cage and top cheese plate for the Canon EOS C80.

Vocas cage for the Canon EOS C80

The Vocas cage for the Canon EOS C80 is a half cage entirely made of aluminum, which won’t add much weight to your camera package since it only weighs 250g/0.55 lbs. This cage attaches to your camera via five screws at the top and bottom, so it won’t twist or come loose. On the cage, you’ll find a plethora of 1/4″-20 Pin Lock and 3/8″-16 Pin Lock mounting points. Also, it has a cold shoe mount on the top’s right side.

At the top of the cage, you’ll find a 1/4″-20 mounting point with Canon’s anti-twist ridges, making it compatible with the stock top handle. Furthermore, the cage doesn’t obstruct the hot shoe at the back of the camera. Even if the Canon EOS C80 now has a built-in electronic level, Vocas included a built-in level at the back of the cage.

Even though the Canon EOS C80 now has a 12G-SDI output, it still has an HDMI output port. This Vocas cage has a right-angle HDMI adapter and clamp, so your camera’s HDMI connector stays safe and secure.

Vocas top cheese plate for the Canon EOS C80

If you want to keep your Canon EOS C80 more minimalistic but still benefit from extra mounting points, Vocas has a top cheese plate available. This plate secures your camera via two screws and gives you three 3/8″-16 Pin Lock and six 1/4″-20 Pin Lock mounting points, a cold shoe, and the same built-in level as the cage.

Price and availability

The Vocas cage for the Canon EOS C80 is available now for $320.27/€285.11, while the top cheese plate is €123.48. Of course, both products are compatible with other Vocas accessories, such as their top handles, baseplates, and RF to PL/LPL lens mount adapters.

For more information, please visit Vocas’ website here.

What do you think about these rigging options for the Canon EOS C80? Did you already receive your EOS C80? What is your go-to third-party accessory manufacturer? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!

The Accsoon TOPRIG BP-A battery plate doubles as a fast charger and a versatile power solution. It’s designed to keep your gear running and reduce the amount of gear you need to carry, whether you’re shooting on set or traveling light.

The Accsoon TOPRIG BP-A battery plate

The TOPRIG BP-A battery plate is more than just a battery adapter. It’s a power hub that combines fast charging, flexible outputs, and compact design.

With a USB-PD input, it can recharge a BP-A30 in 78 minutes or a BP-A60 in 120 minutes—three times faster than standard chargers. On set, the plate’s D-Tap, USB-C, and USB-A outputs allow you to power a wide range of devices, from cameras to monitors and even tablets.

This isn’t Accsoon’s first innovative power solution. Their TOPRIG 100W 4-Bay NP-F Fast Charger, recently covered by CineD, has already proven their dedication to simplifying workflows for filmmakers. The BP-A battery plate builds on that legacy, offering a versatile, lightweight alternative to bulkier power solutions.

Accsoon has already offered a similar solution for Sony batteries with their Accsoon ACC04 NP-F Battery Adapter. That product allowed NP-F batteries to power a variety of cameras and accessories, offering USB and DC outputs. The TOPRIG BP-A battery plate brings the same versatility to Canon BP-A batteries, catering to users who rely on Canon’s ecosystem of cinema and mirrorless cameras and giving them additional power output capabilities, too.

This new plate is ideal for mirrorless setups, but it’s also a natural fit for shooters using cinema cameras like the Canon EOS C400 or EOS C80. Its compact design and flexibility make it a standout tool for filmmakers looking to streamline their power options without sacrificing performance.

Accsoon TOPRIG BP-A Battery Plate specifications

The TOPRIG BP-A battery plate is packed with features to power your gear with ease:

• USB-C Input/Output:
  • Input: 20W max
  • Output: Up to 30W
• USB-A Output:
  • 15W max
• D-Tap Output:
  • 12V–16.8V, 60W max
• Battery Charging Speeds:
  • BP-A30: 78 minutes
  • BP-A60: 120 minutes
• Build: Durable ABS construction, gold-plated contacts rated for 8,000+ insertions
• Weight: 49g
• Mounting Options:
  • Hot shoe, 1/4″-20 screw, or gimbal adapter

Why Canon BP-A batteries?

Canon BP-A batteries, found in cameras like the EOS C400 and the recently introduced EOS C80, are known for their reliability and capacity. These batteries deliver plenty of power, with the BP-A30 offering 43Wh and the BP-A60 doubling that with 90Wh. Trusted on professional sets for years, they’re a standard in the Canon cinema lineup.

For shooters who combine cinema cameras like the EOS C400 with mirrorless setups like the EOS R5 C, the TOPRIG BP-A battery plate is a game-changer. It lets you use the same batteries across your entire kit, simplifying your workflow and ensuring you’re always prepared.

CineD recently highlighted the Canon EOS C400 and EOS C80 in their “Cameras of the Year 2024” article, noting their impact on the industry. The Accsoon TOPRIG BP-A battery plate makes these cameras even more versatile, allowing shooters to extend battery life across multiple devices.

For shooters using both cinema cameras like the EOS C400 or EOS C80 and mirrorless cameras like the R5 C, the TOPRIG BP-A battery plate simplifies power management. Sticking to a single battery system means fewer cables, chargers, and worries about running out of power mid-shoot.

Its flexible mounting options, including a hot shoe quick-release and gimbal adapter, make it easy to integrate into any rig. It also pairs perfectly with the Accsoon PowerCage II for iPads, turning your tablet into a fully powered monitoring setup.

Whether you’re working with a Canon EOS C400, an R5 C, or both, this device streamlines your workflow and reduces the clutter in your gear bag. It’s a reliable solution for powering cameras, accessories, and even your phone or tablet while on the go.

Price and availability

The Accsoon TOPRIG BP-A battery plate is a practical and budget-friendly accessory for filmmakers looking to simplify their power setups. Priced at just $39.99, it offers exceptional value for its combination of fast charging, versatile power outputs, and compact design.

The Accsoon TOPRIG BP-A battery plate will be available later this month through authorized dealers.

What do you think about this new power solution from Accsoon? Will it find a place in your kit? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We’d love to hear how you’d use it on your shoots.

The Blackmagic ATEM Advanced Panels offer a powerful solution for live production, such as broadcast news, sports, concerts, interviews, livestreams, and more. Along with advanced features, some of the ATEM models are portable, allowing for on-location broadcasts.

The ATEM Advanced Panels support 4K and 1080p, a variety of cameras, including those from Blackmagic, plenty of port options (SDI, AUX, USB-C, etc.), chromakey capabilities, and other professional features. Not too long ago, a broadcast switcher setup like this would have cost tens of thousands of dollars, if not hundreds of thousands.

Blackmagic ATEM Switchers 9.6.3 update – new features

The Blackmagic ATEM Switchers 9.6.3 update adds important new features, including:

• New menu that allows for control of Blackmagic Cameras directly from the panel.
• Camera controls include focus, iris, master RGB, black levels, and more.
• User profiles increase from 10 to 100, which saves button mapping and profiles for different shows or users. There’s no need to overwrite profiles.
• Performance and stability updates.

Supported Blackmagic ATEM Advanced Panel models

• ATEM 1 M/E Advanced Panel 10
• ATEM 1 M/E Advanced Panel 20
• ATEM 1 M/E Advanced Panel 30
• ATEM 2 M/E Advanced Panel 20
• ATEM 2 M/E Advanced Panel 30
• ATEM 2 M/E Advanced Panel 40
• ATEM 4 M/E Advanced Panel 40

If you’re using a Mac, you’ll need macOS 15 Sequoia or later, or macOS 14 Sonoma or later. Meanwhile, you’ll need Microsoft Windows 10 64-bit or Windows 11.

Price and availability 

The Blackmagic ATEM Switchers 9.6.3 update is available now as a free download. If you’re using any of the above Blackmagic ATEM Advanced Panel models, this could be considered a mandatory update. The ability to control cameras directly from the Panel and up to 100 user profiles, along with general performance and stability updates, will help to make broadcast switching more streamlined and enhanced.

Visit the Blackmagic support page to learn more and download. They also include instructions on how to install the 9.6.3 update.

Are you currently using a Blackmagic ATEM Production Switcher? Will you be updating to the ATEM Switchers 9.6.3 update? Let us know in the comments below!

The DJI Power 1000 can power multiple devices at once, such as batteries, a drone, a smartphone, a laptop, and much more. It’s quiet and perfect for filming on location or in the field when power is either unreliable or unavailable. Alongside the unveiling of the DJI Power 1000 was the DJI Power 500.

DJI Power Expansion Battery 2000 – features

The DJI Power 1000 features a 1024 Wh battery with a maximum AC output power of 2200 W. The device is quiet, too, generating only 23 dB of noise during standard recharging. This makes it ideal for filming compared to a generator charging batteries and devices. It’s also far more convenient than running to a car to recharge camera and monitor batteries.

Connecting the Power 1000 with up to five units of the Power Expansion Battery gives it five flexible options for power expansion. They include 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 kWh, resulting in 3,072 Wh, 5,120 Wh, 7,168 Wh, 9,216 Wh, and 11,264 Wh. It can also offer a consistent power supply of 2400 W and overclocked output at 2600 W.

Additionally, the DJI Power Expansion Battery 2000 allows the Power 1000’s recharging battery to reach 1500 W and 1024 kWh in only 46 minutes. This ensures power is available quickly, especially when filming in the field, in a remote area, or on location without a consistent or reliable power source.

The interface, screen, and buttons are located on the front of the unit. The sleek, compact design of both the DJI Power 1000 and the Power Expansion Battery 2000 allows them to be stacked, leaving a small footprint.

The DJI Home App is new and offers a streamlined user interface. The DJI Power 1000 can be monitored and controlled remotely with the app via the DJI Power Dongle and Bluetooth. This is a great way to keep an eye on the power station while filming without the need to step away.

Price and availability 

The DJI Power Expansion Battery 2000 retails for $1,169 and is available now on DJI’s website. Meanwhile, the DJI Power 1000 costs $699, and you can get more information here.

If you find yourself frequently filming on location, in the field, or a remote area, both the DJI Power 1000 and the DJI Power Expansion Battery 2000 are a reliable and quiet power source to recharge batteries and devices. It can also be used for personal use, such as at home if the power goes out (driving 99% of appliances) or while camping.

What do you think of the DJI Power 1000 and the Power Expansion Battery 2000? Could you use both for a consistent power source when filming in locations without reliable power? Let us know in the comments below!

Rigid.PRO also says that the Cinerig Base can help shooters working on set to have a more ‘professional-looking’ camera. While mirrorless cameras, along with DSLRs, have some amazing video technology that can rival larger cinema cameras, they are small – and in some cases, showing up at a shoot with a small camera could potentially cause an issue with the client.

Rigid.PRO Cinerig Base – features

The Rigid.PRO Cinerig Base comes with custom-designed aluminum cheese plates and attaches to a camera rig (not included). Once assembled, various accessories such as a monitor, rails, top handle, and more can be more easily added.

• Custom-designed aluminum cheese plates to mount a monitor, top handle, nato rails, etc.
• Bottom cheese plate (aluminum) has multiple tripod mounting points.
• Supports V-Mount or Gold Mount.
• Steel V-Mount bracket.
• Master power isolation switch.
• Battery voltage LCD display.
• Point-to-point wiring.
• Flip screen protection.

Rigid.PRO Cinerig-supported cameras

The Rigid.PRO Cinerig Base supports a number of popular cameras:

• Sony A7S III & A7 IV
• Sony FX30 & FX3 (plus Top Handle edition; Tilta V2 adaptor sold separately)
• Sony a6700
• Sony ZV-E1
• Panasonic LUMIX S5 II, S5 IIX, & G9 II
• Panasonic LUMIX GH6 & GH7
• Panasonic LUMIX S9
• Panasonic LUMIX S1H (includes cage bundle)
• FUJIFILM X-H2S

There is the added expense of a separate camera cage, such as the Tilta V2 Full Camera Cage, SmallRig 4183, and other supported cages. Prices are varied, but the Tilta V2 for the Sony FX3/FX30 costs $109 for the Full Camera Cage, so expect to add some extra to your budget.

A standard camera cage can support various accessories that would otherwise not fit well on these supported mirrorless cameras—the Rigid.PRO Cinerig takes it to the next level by turning it into a box-style cinema camera. It really does look like a cinematographer is filming on a high-end cinema camera such as an ARRI ALEXA or RED KOMODO.

The Camera Foundry CineBack™ is similar to the Cinerig and comes with top and bottom plates, a V-mount with quad D-Tap outputs, and more. It fits the Sony FX3/FX30, A7 Series, and cameras from Canon, FUJIFILM, Panasonic, and more coming soon.

Price and availability 

The Rigid.PRO Cinerig Base is available now and ships worldwide from their headquarters in Australia. Pricing for all rigs starts at $310, though the FX30/FX3 Top Handle Edition is priced at $455, and the Panasonic LUMIX S1H Cage and Cage Bundle retails for $376. Check out their website to learn more, plus view supported cameras, accessories, and requirements.

What do you think of the Rigid.PRO Cinerig – would you use it to make your smaller camera look like a professional cinema camera? Have you encountered any problems or judgment calls from a client when using a smaller mirrorless camera on a shoot? Let us know in the comments below!

CinCraft Scenario is a real-time camera tracking system for virtual production, VFX, and live compositing, and debuted in 2023. Developed by ZEISS and Ncam, which ZEISS later acquired, the software was made up of a mix of software and hardware components and only worked with ZEISS and ARRI/ZEISS lenses.

Earlier this year, version 2.0 added support for non-ZEISS cine and broadcast lenses, opening it up. It also came with pre-calibrated templates and the Lens Template Finetuner to adjust the lenses to specific instances. Additionally, CinCraft Export 1.0 allows data to be extracted from the proprietary herd file for import into apps like Nuke, Unreal Engine, and Maya.

CinCraft Scenario 2.1 – features 

CinCraft Scenario 2.1 has debuted, and ZEISS considers it a significant software update. With the ability to manually calibrate lenses without a pre-filled template, spherical prime and zoom lenses can be used with CinCraft. The update also improves compatibility with virtual production stages in addition to broadcast applications.

The details of the lens can be entered into CinCraft Scenario — focus, iris, and zoom — to perform an initial calibration with a chart and further fine-tune. The software makes it easy to create lens templates for tracking purposes, opening up support for any lens, including spherical.

The CinCraft Scenario 2.1 update also allows for measurements to be manually entered for the CamBar to main camera offset, improving efficiency and speed. There is no longer a need to use the ‘Offset Assistant’ automation, eliminating the need for a chart and the temporary use of a wide lens. Plus, frequently used offsets can be stored and later applied between known camera setups.

Finally, clip names on ARRI and Sony cameras are automatically detected and stored with tracking data by CinCraft Scenario. This makes it easier and smoother when matching the proper take in Export. If the camera doesn’t provide a clip name, it can be manually entered during filming.

CinCraft Export was updated to version 2.0, featuring Undistortion ST Maps to undistort camera plates, so there’s no need to film camera grids. Export Point Cloud provides camera position data to VFX artists, who can use the information in post-production to visualize the space around the camera, simplifying alignment. Point cloud will be available in PTS for Unreal Engine and FBX for Nuke.

CinCraft Scenario 2.1 builds upon the 2.0 update, which included adding more lens and camera support (including Sony Burano and RED KOMODO-X), import of Ncam Reality Lens Calibrations, a free Lens Template and Lens Template Finetuner, CinCraft Export, and more.

Price and availability

The ZEISS CinCraft Scenario 2.1 update is available now, and if you use the software for camera tracking in virtual production or other environments, it is worth updating. The software and hardware camera tracking system is configurable, and bundles are available. Here is how the pricing of the bundles breaks down:

• ZEISS CinCraft Scenario Base Bundle: $13,000.
• Advanced Bundle: $16,000.
• Advanced Broadcast Bundle: $43,600.

You can learn more about CinCraft Scenario on the ZEISS website.

What are your thoughts on the new update for CinCraft Scenario? Have you been using it or another tracking system? Let us know in the comments below!

Back in April, DJI launched Focus Pro, an affordable but pretty advanced lens control ecosystem combining the benefits of a traditional wireless follow focus system with those of LiDAR technology. In short, it allows you to turn cine manual lenses into autofocus ones while still retaining full manual control of focus (as well as iris and zoom) if needed. You can read all about it in our initial coverage here.

The complete DJI Focus Pro kit consists of a hand unit, a grip, motors for Focus/Iris/Zoom (FIZ), and the LiDAR unit – which needs to be carefully centered with the camera’s optical axis and, ideally, positioned as close as possible to the lens’ entrance pupil. However, the flimsy, short, cold-shoe mount that comes standard with Focus Pro sometimes makes it hard to accurately position the LiDAR module for optimal results. Hence, Kondor Blue came up with an alternative. Let’s take a look!

Kondor Blue Cage and Cine Mount for DJI Focus Pro LiDAR

This tiny, low-profile cage wraps around the DJI Focus Pro LiDAR module without adding much bulk or weight to your camera setup. Indeed, the cage measures 86x39x60mm / 3.39×1.54×2.36in and is featherlight, tipping the scale at only 56g/1.9oz.

The accessory provides 1/4”-20 mounting points with anti-twist holes at the top, rear, left, and right sides, plus a 3/8”-16 threaded hole at the bottom. Moreover, the bottom of the cage integrates a Mini Lock male interface that allows you to use the cage in combination with Kondor Blue’s popular quick-release plates. All this allows you to easily mount the LiDAR module in the perfect spot using your own magic arm or other rigging accessories.

However, the company also offers a Cine Mount kit that includes the cage, a 15mm rod clamp, a 15mm rod (10 cm) with a built-in bubble level, and a pivoting arm. This solution should make it even easier to center the LiDAR unit with the lens’ axis and adjust its height.

Finally, the company also has a new range of USB-C cables that can replace the original DJI one. These come in various lengths (6, 10, and 20″) to easily adapt to different lenses and camera setups.

Price and availability

The Kondor Blue Cage and Cine Mount for DJI LiDAR can be purchased or pre-ordered from the manufacturer’s website. Some of these items seem to be in stock and ready to ship, while others should become available by the end of this year.

Both the cage-only and the cine mount options are available in black or space gray finish. They are priced at $75 and $160, respectively. Lastly, Kondor Blue’s 6, 10, and 20” cables for DJI Focus Pro LiDAR retail for $14.99 each.

For more information, please visit Kondor Blue’s website here.

Have you ever worked with DJI’s LiDAR system? Do you think this cage can make it easier to use on set? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

SWIT is known for their variety of production products, including field monitors, SDI and HDMI wireless video and audio systems, lights, batteries, and more. The Transformable ARCA SWISS Plate with V-Mount allows for compatible and larger batteries, powering a camera and other devices for continuous filming.

SWIT Transformable ARCA SWISS Plate with V-Mount – features

Some of the highlights of the SWIT Transformable ARCA SWISS Plate with V-Mount include adopting the ARCA SWISS base standard, its versatile, compact, and lightweight design, 210° tilt and 360° rotate head, side and rear installation, using it with devices other than just a camera (via the 1/4″ screw thread), and the ability to turn it into a desktop tripod.

Adding a V-mount battery to the SWIT Transformable ARCA SWISS Plate attached to a mirrorless camera, for example, ensures longer battery life while filming. How many times have you been on a long shoot in the field and had to swap out the internal battery for a charged one?

The desktop tripod feature is interesting, as it gives shooters some creative options. This can aid in filming product shots or adding a macro lens for super close-up shots. It is very useful for a podcaster doing a livestream at their desk. Additionally, the SWIT Transformable ARCA Swiss Plate with V-Mount can also support a small field monitor or smartphone doubling as a monitor.

The full list of features includes:

• ARCA SWISS standard base adoption, with quick release; compatible with ARCA SWISS tripod heads
• Aluminum alloy construction, making it lightweight yet sturdy
• Fit V-mount batteries, allowing for up to a 2kg (4.41 lbs.) load
• 210° tilt and 360° rotate head
• Arca Swiss standard base
• 2×1/4″ bolts for cameras/devices
• V-wedge quick-release plate with 1/4 bolt
• Transform to desktop tripods
• Highly portable fold size 103×38×30mm (4.06″x1.5″x1.18″)
• Weighs only 120g (4.23 oz.)

Price and availability

The SWIT Transformable ARCA SWISS Plate with V-Mount is available now and retails for an extremely affordable $39.00. Visit SWIT’s website to learn more and make a purchase or two – the price makes it attractive for those working with multiple camera setups.

This is a product to really consider purchasing. It can fit easily on a camera that doesn’t natively support larger V-mount batteries. Its versatility lets it be used with small lights, wireless video and audio devices, small monitors, and more.

The size and weight of the SWIT Transformable ARCA SWISS Plate with V-Mount make it easy to fold and transport. The plate works well with smaller cameras, as it won’t weigh it down; however, a large V-mount battery will add weight.

Will you consider using the SWIT Transformable ARCA SWISS Plate with V-Mount for your shoots? Let us know in the comments below!

Portable storage is essential when filming in 4K, particularly on smartphones. While some devices come with capacities reaching 1TB, having an external storage option allows for more. We’ve already seen one recently from Lexar.

The Dockcase Smart MagSafe M2 NVMe SSD Enclosure allows for a magnetic attachment of the drive and plenty of capacity when you add an SSD. While it comes with 15W of power, it’s worth the upgrade to the 100W to allow for longer battery life.

Dockcase Smart MagSafe M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure – features 

The real highlight is attaching the Dockcase Smart MagSafe M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure magnetically and via USB-C to a compatible iPhone/Android smartphone or tablet, and using it for mobile filmmaking and photography allowing it to shoot 4K 60Hz ProRes video up to 150 minutes. Its aluminum alloy construction is sturdy and an advanced cooling system will keep it from overheating.

The Dockcase Smart MagSafe M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure can also be used as portable storage while organizing clips in the studio or out in the field. With data transfer speeds of 10Gbps via USB 3.2, it’s handy for doing some editing, as well.

The smart display seems like a good concept, but it only highlights read/write speed, drive health, and not much else. I’d be interested in knowing how much space has been taken up on the drive.

Full list of features:

• Lightweight aluminum alloy enclosure with an advanced cooling system.
• MagSafe allows for magnetic attachment (as opposed to using a camera or phone cage).
• Smart display that showcases SSD health, read/write speed, but no capacity available.
• Supports 2230 and 2242 M.2 SSDs.
• Triple data protection: Power loss protection (PLP, charging, and working), enhanced read-only mode, and SSD health monitoring.
• 4K 60Hz ProRes capture and storage, up to 150 minutes (iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max or newer), film in LOG, as well.
• Two USB-C ports, USB 3.2 with 10Gbps transfer speeds.
• Power: 15W auxiliary power supply and a 100W option so there’s no need to worry about losing power while working.
• Supports macOS, Windows, iOS, iPadOS, Android, Linux, ChromeOS, Harmony, and PlayStation 5’s operating system.

Small and portable

Portable storage for smartphones and cameras isn’t so portable if they’re large and cumbersome. The good news is the Dockcase Smart MagSafe M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure is both small and light, especially with its round, aluminum alloy construction.

It won’t weigh down the smartphone or tablet while filming, since it’s 2.33×0.57 inches/59.3mm x 14.5mm and only weighs just 1.86 ounces/53 grams (without the SSD).

Price and availability

The Kickstarter campaign for the Dockcase Smart Magsafe M.2 NVMe SSD Enclosure is live right now and has far exceeded its original goal. It ends November 8, 2024, at 9:00 am EST. There are a few available options with a tentative delivery of January 2025 (pricing is as of publication):

• EB-15W Glossy Silver and Matte Black are each $59 (25% discount, normally $79)
• KS-15W Matte Black and Glossy Silver are each $69 (13% discount, normally $79)
• EB-100W Matte Black is $79 (20% discount, normally $99). This option may be best for those filming. 

At the end of every crowdfunding-related article, we remind you to be aware of the risks when backing a project on a crowdfunding platform. Also, please read the platform’s use and remember there can be significant delays when delivering the product. Some projects don’t get delivered at all.

What do you think of the Dockcase Smart MagSave M.2? Will you use it for mobile filmmaking and photography, or portable storage while editing on the go? Let us know in the comments below!