Datacolor launches two lightning-fast color calibrators

Datacolor has launched the next generation of its color calibrators. The company says that with the Datacolor Spyder X2 Elite and Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra, you can now calibrate your monitor in under two minutes.

New hardware

The Spyder X2 Elite and X2 Ultra systems include a hardware sensor that you attach to your monitor and testing software. Both systems come with the new X2 sensor with a native USB-C connection. There is also an included USB-A adaptor if you need it.

HDR

The new X2 sensor has expanded capabilities compared to the previous generation. This means you can calibrate HDR/high-brightness monitors up to 2000 cd/m2 (nits) with the X2 Ultra. You can’t use the X2 Elite for HDR work out of the box even though it comes with the same sensor. However, Datacolor says that you can upgrade to the Spyder X2 Ultra software if you want to calibrate HDR/High-brightness monitors in the future.

New software

The Datacolor X2 Elite and X2 Ultra have re-engineered software for a more concise user interface and advanced calibration features. The software is also designed for users with various skill levels and needs. If you are new to calibration, you can use the expert-recommended calibration presets. However, if you are more experienced, you can use the X2 Elite’s and X2 Ultra’s advanced calibration features. These include video and cinema targets for Rec. 709 and Rec. 2020. In addition, you can also access advanced display mapping and analysis, along with unlimited calibration settings. If you use multiple monitors, the Studio Match feature is designed for side-by-side display calibration.

What we think

When you work with video and photos, it’s vital that the colors you see on your screen are correct. Unfortunately, unless you pay thousands of dollars, most monitors aren’t accurate enough to rely on for color grading. However, using the Spyder X2 Elite and X2 Ultra, you can ensure that you can rely on the colors of your display device. It’s also useful to be able to upgrade the X2 Elite to HDR capabilities if you want to save a few dollars on your initial purchase. If your work requires a color-accurate monitor, then the Spyder X2 Elite and X2 Ultra could be just what you need.

Pricing and availability

The new Datacolor Spyder X2 color calibrators are available now. The Spyder X2 Elite costs $269, and the Spyder X2 Ultra is $299.


Pete Tomkies
Pete Tomkies
Pete Tomkies is a freelance cinematographer and camera operator from Manchester, UK. He also produces and directs short films as Duck66 Films. Pete's latest short Once Bitten... won 15 awards and was selected for 105 film festivals around the world.

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