Atomos unveils the latest Shinobi GO Monitor

Overview of the Atomos Shinobi GO Monitor
Atomos recently introduced the Shinobi GO Monitor, a sleek and lightweight 5-inch HDR monitor that boasts a brightness level of 1500 nits. Designed primarily for content creators and photographers, this new monitor aims to deliver high-quality visuals without compromising on portability.
Key Features of the Shinobi GO
The Shinobi GO is part of Atomos’s lineup that includes the previously released Shinobi II. While it shares some professional monitoring tools with its predecessor, it does come with a few limitations. Here’s a quick look at its features:
High-Quality Visuals: The monitor is noted for its excellent brightness levels, making it suitable for use in diverse lighting conditions.
- User-Friendly Design: Its compact size ensures easy handling and portability, ideal for on-the-go tasks.
Monitoring Tools Included
Even though the Shinobi GO lacks some advanced features, it still provides several essential monitoring tools:
False Color: This feature helps assess exposure quickly by showing different color levels based on brightness.
Zebra: Indicates the brightness levels on the display to prevent overexposure.
Histogram: Offers a graphical representation of the brightness levels across the image.
Waveform: Displays the exposure level to aid in accurate image capturing.
- Vectorscope: Helps in assessing color information accurately.
Limitations Compared to Shinobi II
While the Shinobi GO fits well within the monitoring needs of many content creators, it lacks some features that the Shinobi II offers. Here’s a list of what’s missing:
No Camera Control: Users cannot control their camera remotely through USB-C or LANC.
No ARRI/RED Options: There is no option to select ARRI or RED gamma settings from the Log/HDR input menu.
No Advanced False Color Systems: Lacks the ARRI false color and EL ZONE systems available in the Shinobi II.
No Anamorphic De-Squeeze: Users won’t find the anamorphic de-squeeze feature on this model.
No On-Device Calibration: Calibration options found in the Info menu of the Shinobi II are unavailable here.
- No 4K DCI Support: It does not support the 4K DCI input resolution of 4096 x 2160.
Powering the Shinobi GO
One of the practical features of the Shinobi GO is its power options. It can be powered using Sony NP-F type batteries or through a USB-C port connected to a power bank. This flexibility ensures that users can maintain usage during longer shoots without interruption.
Atomos CEO’s Statement
Jeromy Young, CEO of Atomos, described the monitor as a great tool for creators who do not require camera control. He emphasized that the Shinobi GO provides high-quality viewing in daylight conditions while being affordably priced.
Connection Options
The Shinobi GO comes equipped with a locking connector adapter for its HDMI and USB-C ports. When used with Atomos locking cables (available separately), these adapters help prevent accidental disconnections, ensuring a more reliable setup during shoots.
Compatibility with Accessories
Both the Shinobi GO and the Shinobi II share the same size sun hood and accessories, allowing users to reuse batteries, cables, rigs, and other attachments. This compatibility adds to the convenience for users transitioning from the Shinobi II to the new GO model.
Pricing and Availability
The Atomos Shinobi GO Monitor is priced at $249 USD (or equivalent pricing in EUR, GBP, and AUD). You can purchase it directly from the Atomos website or through authorized resellers. For comparison, the Shinobi II is priced slightly higher at $349 USD.
Specifications Overview
Here’s a summary of core specifications and features of the Shinobi GO Monitor:
- Display Size: 5-inch
- Brightness: 1500 nits HDR
- Battery Compatibility: Sony NP-F type batteries
- Power Options: USB-C power bank
- Monitoring Tools: False color, zebra, histogram, waveform, and vectorscope
Conclusion
The Atomos Shinobi GO fills a niche for entry-level content creators. With its lightweight design and high brightness, it can be a valuable asset for photographers and videographers alike. While it does omit a few advanced features found in higher-end models, it still retains core functionalities that most users need.
As the demand for accessible tools in the content creation space continues to grow, Atomos’s latest offering demonstrates its commitment to providing both quality and affordability for creative professionals.