Ever noticed how some YouTubers speak so confidently that it looks unscripted, even though they’re reading verbatim from a script? The secret? A teleprompter: a tool that puts your lines right in front of you while making the camera think you’re speaking off the cuff.
How does a teleprompter work for YouTube? In this guide, we’ll break down the mechanics of teleprompters, explore their benefits, and share tips for choosing and using one effectively.
How does a teleprompter work for YouTube videos: Key components explained
A teleprompter consists of two main parts: a horizontal screen (often an iPad, tablet, or small monitor) that shows the script, and a transparent glass panel set at a 45-degree angle in front of the camera lens. The screen’s text is reflected onto the glass, making it visible to the speaker while keeping their gaze directed at the camera. Behind the glass, the camera records the scene unobstructed.
Here’s an overview of its main components and explains how a teleprompter works.
Teleprompter glass: It reflects scripts clearly and allows camera lens to shoot through it
This specialized glass has a reflective coating that ensures text is visible to you but doesn’t obstruct the camera. It’s lightweight, durable, and engineered for clarity.
Teleprompter glass, often called a beam splitter glass or teleprompter mirror, is a special type of semi-transparent glass used in teleprompters.
It has a dual property:
Reflective on one side, so the presenter can see the script displayed from a screen below.
Clear on the other side, so the camera behind it can record through the glass without picking up the reflected text.
This glass is usually set at a 45° angle in front of the camera lens, allowing the speaker to read while still looking directly into the camera.
Display screen and software: They work together to show the scripts of YouTube videos
The display screen shows your YouTube content scripts using a teleprompter app. The display can be a tablet, PC, or Mac. The apps allow you to adjust scrolling speed, font size, and other settings to ensure a seamless reading experience.
Camera mount: It places the camera behind the glass to capture YouTube footage and ensure natural eye contact
The camera is mounted directly behind the teleprompter glass and aligned with your eyes. It captures footage that appears as though you’re speaking naturally while keeping eye contact with viewers.
Why you need one: It saves YouTubers time and effort to ensure regular content uploads
Teleprompters are widely used in television news and talk show studios, but they’re also valuable for YouTube and TikTok creators. Being able to read a script while maintaining eye contact with the camera helps capture the right footage in fewer takes, saving time during both filming and editing.
For YouTubers, efficiency is key to producing content consistently — a must for building an audience. Many top creators post at least one video per week, with some releasing three or more. Planning scripts in advance and batch-recording several videos in one session makes this process much easier, and a teleprompter speeds it up even further.
What to use: Choose between teleprompter devices and apps for YouTube videos
Once you’ve decided to use a teleprompter, the next step is choosing the right hardware. Some models are standalone units with their own built-in screen and stand, but these often rely on basic or outdated software.
Others are designed to hold your own device, such as a tablet or phone. These are typically more affordable, lightweight, and portable, while letting you choose your preferred teleprompter app.
When selecting software, look for essentials like smooth text scrolling (voice-activated or automatic) along with a modern, user-friendly interface, device syncing, script organization, and team collaboration features if you’re producing with others.
The Moman MT12 is a portable option in this case. It features a sturdy metal build and spacious 12-inch HD beam-splitter glass. It supports tablets up to 12.9″ and even smartphones, while an adjustable reflection angle ensures clear readability whether you're standing or sitting.
Setup is quick and portable—thanks to its foldable, one-piece design—making it ideal for creators who shoot in different locations. Its accompanying app and wireless remote add smooth control over scrolling speed, font size, color, and even a countdown timer. They are essential tools for solo creators aiming for polished, uninterrupted delivery.
How to use a teleprompter for YouTube: 4 tips to follow
Delivering naturally and engagingly with a teleprompter isn’t just about skill and practice — setup plays a major role. A proper setup can improve comfort, readability, and your overall on-camera presence. Below is a guide for arranging the teleprompter for YouTube videos, along with technical tips to keep things running smoothly.
Properly position the teleprompter for YouTube video recording
💡Eye Level: Align the teleprompter with your eyes to avoid looking up or down, which can appear unnatural and disconnect you from viewers.
💡Camera Placement: Keep the teleprompter glass as close to the camera lens as possible. This preserves the illusion of direct eye contact, creating a more personal connection.
Adjust lighting setups for good on-camera looks and text clarity
💡Even Lighting: Good video lighting is crucial for a pro look on the camera and text clarity on the beamsplitter glass. Use soft, consistent lighting that brightens your face without causing glare on the glass.
💡Shadow Control: Place lights so they don’t cast shadows on the teleprompter, which can make text harder to read and distract you mid-delivery.
Adjust font & screen settings for comfortable reading
💡Font Size: Choose a size that’s easy to read without straining your eyes. Adjust it based on your distance from the screen.
💡Contrast & Brightness: Increase contrast for better visibility, but keep brightness at a level that prevents glare and eye fatigue.
Experiment with camera distance and glass angle for a natural look
💡Camera Distance: The ideal distance varies based on the teleprompter’s size and the camera’s framing. Position the teleprompter roughly 5–6 feet away, then fine-tune to balance legibility and natural appearance.
💡Glass Angle: Adjust the glass tilt to reduce reflections and ensure your eyes are clearly visible. The ideal angle depends on your lighting and camera setup, so some adjustments may be needed to achieve the best result.
