The Blackmagic Design Video Assist 5 12G is a professional, high-resolution monitor and recorder designed to expand the capabilities of cameras by adding advanced monitoring tools and high-quality recording formats. It features a bright, high-contrast seven-inch touchscreen display with excellent visibility even in challenging outdoor lighting conditions, making it suitable for on-set use.

This unit is distinguished by its robust recording capabilities, supporting up to 12G-SDI input, which allows it to capture Ultra HD and DCI 4K video at high frame rates directly from professional cinema cameras and broadcast equipment. It can record to widely adopted codecs such as Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHR onto affordable, removable SD UHS-II and CFast 2.0 media cards, providing flexibility for different workflow requirements and budgets. The Video Assist 5 12G also functions as a comprehensive field monitor, offering a suite of professional scopes and tools for critical focus and exposure assessment, including focus peaking, zebra patterns, false color, and waveform monitors.

Its connectivity is extensive, featuring both 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 inputs and outputs with support for high dynamic range workflows, including HDR10+ and HLG. With its durable metal construction, built-in stereo speakers, and comprehensive input/output options, it serves as an all-in-one solution for directors of photography, camera operators, and independent filmmakers seeking to enhance their monitoring and recording pipeline with a reliable, standalone device.