When I first bought the Elgato Prompter, my goal was to use it as an external display so I could see myself while filming and maybe even read a script. It’s also one of the best teleprompters on the market for its simple design, features, and ease of use.
Pairing it with the RØDECaster Video, it felt like the next logical step. I assumed I could just run a simple HDMI cable from the RØDECaster into the Elgato Prompter and boom — I’d have a second display where I could monitor or read off content during shoots.
Turns out, it wasn’t that simple.
Why HDMI Alone Doesn’t Work
The Elgato Prompter is a great idea in theory, but it doesn’t function like a standard HDMI display. You can’t just plug in a video feed and expect it to show up. Instead, it relies on being recognized as an extended display from your computer.
That’s where the first snag happened. Plugging the RØDECaster’s USB-C cable directly into the Elgato Prompter did absolutely nothing. No image or connection. At first, I thought it was a settings issue, but after some digging, I realized this was just how the prompter was designed.
Elgato’s own documentation doesn’t offer a plug-and-play HDMI solution. Instead, you can really only use it from a PC or Mac.
The Solution: Capture Card + OBS
After some trial and error (and a bit of YouTube searching), I found a reliable solution. You’ll need a capture card like the camlink. — they go for around $100 online — and an HDMI cable. I prefer these color coordinated ones by rode.
Here’s how the setup works:
- Connect the HDMI out from the RØDECaster Video into the capture card.
- Plug the capture card into your computer or docking station.
- Open up OBS (Open Broadcaster Software), right-click on your video source, and choose Fullscreen Projector (Preview).
- Then select the Elgato Prompter as your display.
Once that’s done, the image from your RØDECaster will finally appear on the prompter.
It’s a bit of a hack, but it works.
The Need for a Docking Station
This setup introduces a new challenge: ports. With the RodeCaster Video you’ll find you need more ports and power by running multiple cameras, the SSD, your computer, the prompter setup, and all your audio gear.
In my case, I needed a solid all-in-one docking solution. That’s when I found the Fusion Dock Max 1 by iVANKY. It’s a high-performance dock that will power dual 4k displays while also powering my cameras, audio, and SSDs, all through a single interface with my computer.
It’s not cheap, and yes, it adds more money to the setup. But honestly, if you’re working with a device like the RØDECaster Video, you almost need something like this to keep everything powered.
Cable Management
One more thing. Don’t forget to get some cable management for the 10 new cables you’re adding to your desk. I prefer these ones that can screw into your desk or adhesive. You might also consider mounting your docking station under your desk.
The RodeCaster video is powerful and a useful tool for creators, but the number of cables added to your desk will quickly overwhelm you.
Final Thoughts
If you’re building out a video setup and plan to use both of these devices, be prepared to spend some time figuring out the right cables, connections, and software.
The Elgato Prompter and RØDECaster Video are both powerful tools for content creators, but getting them to work together isn’t exactly intuitive. While the workaround gets the job done, it’s one more reminder that even high-end gear can come with frustrating limitations.
Check out my video below to see my review of the Rodecaster Video and all the other problems I’ve experienced thus far.
