Hands-On Review: SmallHD FOCUS Monitor

Upgrade Your Camera with SmallHD’s 5″ FOCUS Monitor

All images via PremiumBeat.

If you’re shooting tutorials, vlogging, or working without a cameraperson, SmallHD’s FOCUS monitor is a game-changer. This 5-inch, 800nit display offers a bright and clear view, making shooting in the middle of the day or in intense lighting conditions a breeze. Let’s take a closer look.

Introducing the SmallHD FOCUS

SmallHD proudly calls this monitor “the monitor you can see outside.” I put it to the test on a scorching 100-degree summer day in Texas, and I can confirm that the screen performs exceptionally well in bright sunlight. As someone who shoots with a Sony a7S II, which isn’t known for its clear display in daylight, the FOCUS is an absolute must-have for visibility.

One of the biggest advantages of the FOCUS is its ability to clearly show what’s in focus and what’s not. With features like Focus Assist and Peaking assists, as well as color customization options, achieving perfect focus has never been easier. The monitor is also touch-sensitive and offers quick reaction times, making it a significant improvement over previous SmallHD models.

Customize Your SmallHD FOCUS Monitor

In addition to controlling the live image, the FOCUS allows you to toggle your image display and offers various customization options. You can adjust brightness, aspect ratio, image rotation, pixel zoom, and even control the volume for your headphones. The monitor also features a cold shoe mount and three 1/4″ 20 mounts for attaching additional equipment.

If you shoot with Canon cameras, you’ll appreciate the FOCUS’s ability to scale up with these models, ensuring you see the entire image.

One of the standout features of the FOCUS is its swipe feature for different setups. Whether you’re shooting in different locations or lighting conditions, you can have all your custom pre-made settings ready to go.

Enhance Your Workflow with SmallHD FOCUS Tools

The touch screen on the FOCUS allows you to touch-zoom in to check your focus and control the display. Each tool can be easily toggled on or off with a simple tap and swipe motion. Once you’ve set proper exposure, focus, and aspect ratio, you can swipe left or right to access additional correction and adjustment options. You can even customize the tools by changing the color of exposure and focus points.

With the FOCUS, you can simultaneously check the waveform, false colors, histogram, and focus assist to ensure your shots are perfect.

The FOCUS also includes a headphone jack, allowing you to monitor audio directly from an attached microphone. It also features an SD card slot for uploading custom LUTs to the monitor, saving you time on your next shoot. Additionally, the FOCUS can power your camera through an auxiliary out cable, helping to keep your camera cool and extend its battery life.

SmallHD FOCUS Price and Bundles

The SmallHD FOCUS monitor is available for $499 USD, which includes the micro HDMI and USB cables, cable clips, and tilt arm. However, you will need to purchase an L series battery separately. SmallHD also offers camera-specific bundles,