Atomos Ninja and Ninja Ultra Breakthrough

 Atomos has just unveiled its cutting-edge monitor/recorders, the Ninja and Ninja Ultra, representing the latest evolution in this technology.

A significant 13 years have passed since the debut of the original Ninja in 2010. Back then, having a monitor/recorder capable of recording ProRes to a removable SSD was groundbreaking for DSLR shooters. While internal recording capabilities have advanced, external recorders remain essential for many, especially users of mirrorless hybrids and lower-cost digital cinema cameras lacking internal RAW recording.

Ninja and Ninja Ultra

The new Ninja and Ninja Ultra showcase a distinctive 'camo' color polycarbonate body, featuring advancements such as 6K ProRes RAW, ProRes, DNxHD, and H.265—previously available as a paid option. It's intriguing that the camo color is the sole choice, with no standard back options provided.

Both the Ninja and Ninja Ultra maintain the same screen and body as their predecessors externally. However, the real transformations occur beneath the surface.

The new Ninja targets mirrorless hybrid owners, while the Ninja Ultra caters to those wanting to maximize camera-to-cloud technology and leverage Atomos Connect workflows.

The Ninja lineup introduces a range of codecs at no cost:

  • Apple ProRes
  • Apple ProRes RAW
  • H.265
  • DNx (QuickTime)
  • DNx (MXF)*, expected in 2023

Apple ProRes comes pre-activated for immediate use. Activating H.265 and DNx codecs is a straightforward process through my.atomos.com. To enable the Apple ProRes RAW codec, a small additional step is needed via the my.atomos.com portal, requiring the connection of a compatible RAW camera—a one-time procedure.

Let's delve into the specifics of the Atomos Ninja 5.2" 4K HDMI Recording Monitor. With enhanced functionality, including an upgraded operating system, HDR monitoring, and RAW recording capabilities, this 5.2" on-camera monitor and recorder is equipped to handle DCI 4K HDMI footage and support ProRes RAW up to 6K from compatible cameras. It retains the form factor of its predecessors for compatibility with existing Atomos monitor accessories.

Atomos Ninja 5-inch HDR Monitor Recorder

Key features include a 1920 x 1080 touchscreen display, 10-bit exterior viewable monitor, 4K HDMI 2.0 input/output, 6K30 ProRes RAW compatibility with select cameras, AtomOS 11 Operating System, 1000 cd/m² brightness, and support for multiple log formats, ProRes, and DNxHR/HD recording. A RecordAssist function allows scheduling recording start times, ideal for pre-arranged events and simultaneous recording in multiple locations with multiple Ninjas.

Now, let's turn our attention to the Atomos Ninja Ultra 5.2" 4K HDMI Recording Monitor. Its HDMI input and output ports support up to DCI 4K video at 60 fps in various modes, with support for 3.5K RAW at 60 fps footage with select cameras. Impressively, over 55 different cameras support RAW recording over HDMI with the Ninja Ultra, reaching up to 8K at 30 fps.

Atomos Ninja Ultra HDR Monitor Recorder

Key features include a 1920 x 1080 touchscreen display, 10-bit exterior viewable monitor, 4K HDMI 2.0 input/output, 8K30 ProRes RAW compatibility with select cameras, AtomOS 11 Operating System, 1000 cd/m² brightness, and support for multiple log formats, ProRes, DNxHR/HD recording, and recording to Master Caddy II/III Hard Drive. The Ninja Ultra can record ProRes RAW up to 4K 60p while simultaneously recording HD 60p to H.265. It supports automatic matching filenames, timecodes, and recording from ARRI, Canon, and RED cameras, with more camera support anticipated in the future.

An exciting addition is the Ninja Ultra's 4K camera-to-cloud mode, enabling the recording and upload of higher quality bitrate H.265 video with increased framerates. H.265 files, being half the size of H.264 media, are suitable for camera-to-cloud workflows and immediate use on social media, sports reporting, or news gathering.

The Atomos Connect expansion module, compatible with both the Ninja and Ninja Ultra, introduces Atomos RemoteView technology. This groundbreaking feature allows live views from the Atomos screen to be shared wirelessly with other Atomos monitors, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs—a game-changer for remote production. For the Ninja Ultra, the Atomos Connect module enhances connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E, providing lower latency and higher throughput.

Atomos takes a step further with the introduction of AtomOS 11, a completely revamped operating system. Described as cleaner, fresher, and faster, AtomOS 11 includes features like EL Zone exposure-referenced colorized image, ARRI False Color, and new scheduled playback & recording tools. Notably, standardized false color is a welcome addition, addressing a user concern over the last 13 years.

In summary, Atomos has raised the bar with the Ninja and Ninja Ultra, offering advanced monitor/recorders designed to meet the evolving needs of filmmakers and content creators. With innovative features, expanded codec support, and technologies like Atomos RemoteView, these devices are set to become indispensable tools in the professional videography landscape.

Related Products:

Ninja V+ 8K
Ninja V+
Ninja V

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