Summary
- Blackmagic Design announced the UltraStudio Express 3G series
- The lineup includes the Recorder 3G and Monitor 3G
- Both support 3G-SDI and HDMI in SD and HD up to 1080p60
- They connect via USB4 or Thunderbolt 4
- Each model is priced at $175
Blackmagic Design has announced the new UltraStudio Express 3G series, with two portable solutions for capture and playback over USB4.
The new family includes the UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G and UltraStudio Express Monitor 3G, two separate devices for video input and output respectively, with 3G-SDI and HDMI support for SD and HD standards up to 1080p60.
The announcement matters for creators, editors, colorists and live production teams, as it brings professional SDI/HDMI connectivity in a compact form factor, powered through the same USB cable, at a price that remains very accessible for the category.
Two models for different needs
The UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G is designed exclusively for signal capture. It accepts video from 3G-SDI and HDMI sources and sends it to the computer for recording, streaming or editing.
The UltraStudio Express Monitor 3G performs the opposite task. It takes the signal from the computer and sends it to professional monitors or other devices via 3G-SDI and HDMI.
Blackmagic Design separates the two core workflows, allowing each model to remain small, simple and affordable.
USB4 and Thunderbolt 4
Both models connect to Mac, Windows and Linux computers equipped with USB4 or Thunderbolt 4. Power is delivered through the same cable, making the devices practical for laptop-based use in field productions, off-site editing or portable streaming setups.
The use of USB4 provides high bandwidth for professional workflows, while Thunderbolt 4 compatibility makes the devices easier to integrate into modern post-production systems.
Support up to 1080p60
UltraStudio Express 3G supports SD and HD standards, including 525i59.94, 625i50, 720p, 1080i and 1080p up to 1080p60.
For 3G-SDI connections, users can switch between Level A and Level B, an important feature for compatibility with different broadcast equipment.
The devices support 10-bit 4:2:2 YUV or RGB, in both uncompressed and compressed workflows, with formats such as Apple ProRes, DNxHD and 10-bit uncompressed, depending on the software used.
Compatibility with popular software
The series is based on the DeckLink API, which is widely used across Blackmagic Design’s capture and playback products. This means the new models can work with applications such as DaVinci Resolve, Final Cut Pro, Avid Media Composer, Adobe Premiere Pro, Fusion, After Effects, Photoshop and OBS.
Blackmagic also provides a free SDK for Mac, Windows and Linux, allowing developers and companies to integrate the devices into custom solutions.
Price and availability
The UltraStudio Express Monitor 3G and UltraStudio Express Recorder 3G are available now through Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide, priced at $175 for each model.
The price refers to the US market and does not include local taxes or shipping costs.
What we think
The new UltraStudio Express 3G series appears to target users who need reliable SDI/HDMI capture or monitoring without high cost or bulky hardware. Splitting the two functions into separate models may not suit everyone, but it keeps the price low and the setup cleaner for specific workflows.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the two models?
The Recorder 3G is used to capture a signal from 3G-SDI or HDMI into a computer, while the Monitor 3G is used to output a signal from a computer to a monitor or another device.
Do they support 4K video?
No, UltraStudio Express 3G supports SD and HD standards up to 1080p60.
Do they require external power?
No, they are powered through the same USB cable used to connect them to the computer.
Which operating systems are supported?
Blackmagic Design lists compatibility with Mac, Windows and Linux, through USB4 or Thunderbolt 4.
How much do they cost?
Each model is priced at $175 in the US market, excluding taxes and shipping.
