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Black Flag Distribution
Aug 7, 2026

Which Autocue Teleprompter Should You Buy? Explorer vs Pioneer vs Navigator

Autocue Explorer teleprompter system

Which Autocue Teleprompter Should You Buy? Explorer vs Pioneer vs Navigator

Last updated: 7 August 2026. Prices are in AUD and correct at the time of writing, check the linked product pages for live pricing and stock.

The right Autocue teleprompter depends on how you work: Explorer for straightforward studio and field prompting, Pioneer for broadcast and complex workflows, and Navigator for conference and presidential speeches. Then you match monitor size, software tier and controller to the job. Here's the decision, step by step. For how the whole system fits together, see our complete Autocue guide.

Step 1: match the range to your work

If you do… Choose From (AUD)
Interviews, corporate, single-cam studio/field Explorer 17"/19" ~$5,899
Portable / field with a premium prompter Pioneer Portable 17" ~$11,999
Studio broadcast Pioneer Studio / Box Lens ~$12,949
Jib or PTZ / robotic cameras Pioneer Jib / PTZ ~$10,899
Conference / presidential speeches Navigator Conference ~$11,049
Simplest self-prompting Starter Series iPad ~$3,149

Step 2: Explorer or Pioneer? It's mostly the software

If two prompters look similar, the difference is what the software lets you do. Choose Explorer if you run one output and one controller, import scripts manually, and don't need PowerPoint or newsroom integration, it covers the vast majority of corporate and single-camera jobs. Choose Pioneer if you need multiple simultaneous outputs and controllers, live editing while prompting, newsroom (MOS/FTP) integration or PowerPoint triggering, the tools of a broadcast gallery. Pioneer also unlocks the extra hardware configurations (box-lens, jib, PTZ) and High Brightness monitors.

Step 3: pick your monitor size and brightness

Bigger monitors give the presenter a more comfortable read at distance; High Brightness versions stay legible under studio or daylight. A 17" suits most on-camera setups; step to 19" for a longer read distance or a lectern, and choose High Brightness if you shoot bright or outdoors. Prompter monitors are sold to match each range, Pioneer High Brightness and standard, or the value Explorer monitors.

Step 4: choose a controller

If the presenter self-prompts, a hands-free Wireless Foot Controller lets them pace their own read. If a dedicated operator drives the scroll, the ShuttleXpress is a compact, affordable desk control, while the wired Foot Controller suits a fixed gallery position.

Step 5: add talent feedback if needed

On larger shoots, add a 22" Talent Monitor below the lens so the presenter can see the program feed, a clock or notes while they read.

Quick recommendations

Corporate / interview studio: Explorer 17" or 19" with the ShuttleXpress. Broadcast news / multi-camera: Pioneer Studio with Pioneer software and a foot controller. Field with robotic or jib cameras: Pioneer PTZ or Jib. Events and keynotes: Navigator Conference package. One-person self-prompt: Starter Series iPad prompter with a wireless foot control.

Frequently asked questions

Should I buy an Autocue Explorer or Pioneer?

Buy Explorer for straightforward work, one output, one controller, manual scripts. Buy Pioneer if you need multiple outputs and controllers, live editing, newsroom integration or PowerPoint, plus configurations like box-lens, jib and PTZ and High Brightness monitors.

What size teleprompter monitor do I need?

A 17" suits most on-camera setups; choose 19" for a longer read distance or a lectern. Add High Brightness if you shoot in bright studio or outdoor conditions.

Which Autocue prompter is best for a PTZ or jib camera?

The Pioneer range includes dedicated PTZ and jib prompter configurations designed to mount on robotic and jib-mounted cameras.

What teleprompter is best for conference speeches?

The Autocue Navigator conference (presidential) packages use clear glass panels on stands beside the lectern, so a speaker can read while addressing the audience.

Do I need a foot controller or a hand controller?

Use a foot controller when the presenter self-prompts and wants their hands free; use a hand controller like the ShuttleXpress when a dedicated operator drives the scroll speed.

Where to buy in Australia

Black Flag Distribution is the official Australian distributor of the professional film, television and production brands featured in this guide. We supply an Australia-wide network of authorised retailers and stockists rather than selling direct to the public, so there is a local dealer who can help wherever you are. To check pricing and availability and to buy, use the Black Flag Distribution store finder to find an authorised retailer or stockist near you. Search our store finder to locate your nearest Australian stockist and purchase from an authorised dealer.

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