Best Canon PTZ controllers: RC-IP1000 vs RC-IP100 vs SKAARHOJ RC-SK5

Canon's PTZ controllers provide streamlined control of your remote cameras. Using the Canon RC-IP1000, RC-IP100, SKAARHOJ RC-SK5 or the free Remote Camera Control Application for Windows and Mac, a single operator, is able to make accurate adjustments to the movement and settings of multiple PTZ cameras. 

But which Canon PTZ controller is the best option for you? What do the hardware controllers allow you to do that the software solution doesn't? And why would you choose the RC-IP1000 over the RC-IP100?

• How to choose the best Canon controller for your needs
• Best PTZ camera for high-end broadcast
• Best entry-level PTZ controller
• Best versatile PTZ controller
• Canon RC-IP100 vs RC-IP1000

The kit, explained: The  Canon RC-IP1000  is a powerful, broadcast-level PTZ controller for high-end applications. 

RC-IP1000 highlights: The RC-IP1000 PTZ controller includes IP video and input monitoring, a PC-less camera setup, and an expansive range of professional connectivity options – including SDI and HDMI output. The RC-IP1000 also includes a multi-function joystick.  

Compatibility with other cameras: The RC-IP1000 provides the ergonomic control that camera operators working in high-end live events and TV studios need. It pairs effortlessly with professional PTZ cameras, such as the  Canon CR-N700  and  CR-N500, as well as the Canon EOS C70, Canon EOS C300 Mark III, Canon EOS C500 Mark II and Canon XF605 camcorder thanks to firmware updates. Since 2024, a new structure and XC Protocol API allows expanded capability of integrating with 3rd party solutions too.

IP video and input monitoring: In addition to SDI and HDMI connectivity, the RC-IP1000 supports POE+ over LAN, enabling the controller to be powered without a 12-volt power input. It features five RS-422 Serial ports, an SDI input, and GPIO inputs for tally control.  

As the world's first PTZ controller to offer IP video and input monitoring, the RC-IP1000 makes for a more efficient remote camera workflow.  

The LCD touchscreen: "Previously you would have had to connect an external monitor to see the feed. But the RC-IP1000 controller allows you to monitor all your feeds on its 7-inch LCD touchscreen. [With the RC-1P1000], you have different views available too, so you can choose a full-screen display, or 2x2 and 3x3 views.” Since

But you can still hook up to additional external monitors if you want to, says Matthew.
“The SDI and HDMI outputs also enable you to monitor the full feed live on an external screen, should you wish to do so."

Since a 2024 firmware update, users can also output the Multi View displayed on the LCD screen to an external display through its 12G-SDI/HDMI Out, allowing you to see all of your camera feeds in greater detail. The same firmware update allows you to view your pre-sets through thumbnail images on external displays, allowing you to easily and confidently switch between them.

Touch AF: The touchscreen also offers enhanced functionality, such as letting you select the AF point using Touch AF.

"Canon PTZ cameras have Dual Pixel CMOS AF or Hybrid AF, which is one of their major strengths," Matthew points out.

With the RC-IP1000, you can tap on the touchscreen, as it displays the live feed, where the camera should focus. Thanks to a 2024 firmware update, users can now select a tracking subject on the touchscreen, and a new Focus Guide is viewable on the LCD screen to show whether a subject is in focus or not - perfect for those who prefer to focus manually. This feature is only available on Canon CR-N700 and Canon CR-N500 PTZ cameras, as well as cameras and camcorders with Dual Pixel AF, such as the Canon EOS C300 Mark III, Canon EOS C500 Mark II, Canon EOS C70 and Canon XF605.

"Obviously, a PTZ camera doesn't have a viewfinder or screen that enables you to manually select an AF point in the same way that you can on a mirrorless or DSLR camera, but the RC-IP1000's touchscreen solves that problem."

Compactness and control. The compact  Canon RC-IP100  provides control of up to 100 cameras over IP connection. Like the  RC-IP1000, it's equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen that allows cameras and settings to be switched easily.

Two user-assignable buttons, two dedicated function buttons and a customisable control knob on the joystick enable the RC-IP100 to be configured for different shooting scenarios, and a professional zoom rocker gives smooth wide-to-tele adjustments.

Ideal for small multi-camera setups. "The RC-IP100 is a really good controller for a small- to medium-sized multi-cam setup where only basic functionality is required – such as panning the camera, switching between cameras and activating a couple of presets" Matthew explains.

Used by small tv studios. "This PTZ controller is perfect for this type of work because it's so clean and streamlined from a user interface point of view.

The touchscreen control-panel display provides easy access to menus, and you've got five customisable buttons that you can use to tailor the controller to how you like to work – whether you're using it for corporate video, education, start-up live events or houses of worship."

It's equally at home in smaller TV studios, Matthew adds, as its use by Slovakian channel, TV JOJ, attests.

Overview: 

SKAARHOJ RC-SK5 is a brand-new mid-range PTZ controller, a perfect midway in comparison to higher end and low-end models by competitors. With a paid Pro License, connectivity is expanded from Canon/SKAARHOJ devices to allow integration with other third-party cameras, giving users endless amount of choice and guaranteed compatibility when thinking about which camera to use alongside this PTZ.

Compatibility: The SKAARHOJ RC-SK5 is fully compatible with Canon XC Protocol, with physical buttons/dials to control Focus, Iris, WB, Gain, PT Speed, Zoom Speed, Presets and more.  

Affordability and usage: This controller is perfect for the mid end customer base. It can be used with Canon cameras but also other brand cameras when upgraded with a Pro License.

The ergonomic design of the SKAARHOJ RC-SK5 joystick delivers a responsive link to each camera, bringing intuitive control and precision. Alongside the LCD screen, there are dedicated physical buttons for Iris, Focus, R and B gain, Master and Pedestal - allowing a satisfyingly tactile control over your PTZ cameras.

Why use it over other PTZ models?  

The SKAARHOJ RC-SK5, designed by SKAARHOJ, is an industry favourite. It’s customisable buttons and ergonomic joystick, give it that extra edge over its counterparts. Not only this but with an additional paid licence via SKAARHOJ, customers can also control 3rd party cameras. If part of a multi-camera set-up, then the controller can also control these.  

What setup is this PTZ most suitable for?  

Whilst the RC-IP1000 is most suitable for TV studios and live music concerts, the SKAARHOJ RC-SK5 is best suited for broadcast marketing on a smaller scale, anything from small studios to corporate events and everything in between. Consider the SKAARHOJ RC-SK5 alongside the RC-IP100 - depending on your preference, the former offers more physical buttons and the latter offers a touch-panel-based design.

Ultimately, choosing between the  Canon RC-IP1000, the  RC-IP100 and SKAARHOJ RC-SK5 comes down to your budget and whether the type of production you're working on demands the sophisticated control and expandability of the RC-IP1000.

Regardless of which you choose, you can be assured that a Canon PTZ hardware controller will give you the capability to run a multi-cam setup with more precision and efficiency than a software solution alone.