Professional PTZ camera market in decline, yet opportunities lie ahead

The global professional PTZ camera market endured a third consecutive year of volume and value contraction in 2023, according to a new industry report from Futuresource Consulting. However, the specialist research firm also predicts a positive outlook, with a return to growth as the market moves forward.

“We’ve seen governments, financial institutions and commercial enterprises feel the pain of elevated inflation rates,” says Shubham Kumar, Senior Analyst, Futuresource Consulting. “The economic strain, stemming from a swathe of geopolitical factors, has led to restricted budget allocations across North America, Europe and APAC regions. And this has had a direct and resounding effect on the PTZ market.”

Value and volume impacted, but outperforming pre-pandemic levels

Last year, PTZ market shipments declined by 15% and value was down 17%. The Rest of World and European regions were hit the hardest, however, Futuresource notes that performance still exceeded pre-pandemic levels. This suggests a permanent expansion of the pro PTZ market, due to an activation of demand from new verticals during the pandemic.

Panasonic in command

Looking to the brands, Panasonic led the pack in 2023, in both volume and value terms, gaining three percentage points of value share year-on-year. Next up was Sony, with low double-digit share of both volume and value, and an increase in value share of one percentage point.

Close up on the tech

In terms of the tech, 1/3” sensor products accounted for the vast majority of market volume in 2023, despite shedding four percentage points. 1/2” sensor products gained three percentage points, yet the segment was still 85% smaller than 1/3” sensors.

HDMI and SDI video output both gained single-digit share, and 4K pro PTZs gained 11 percentage points in volume share, to account for more than half of total market volume.

A lucrative future for PTZ cameras

“Despite the challenges, pro PTZ cameras will remain a popular choice, due to their affordability and versatility,” says Kumar. “Moving forward, we expect further decline this year, as the market stabilises. But from 2025 onwards, volumes will grow and momentum will be maintained throughout the forecast period.

“This will be driven mainly by the increase in investment from broadcast, corporate and education verticals. Our research also suggests that Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar have allocated significant budgets to their video production industries, which will further support annual volume and value growth for PTZs.

“What’s more, there’ll be plenty of value growth coming from the broadcast vertical in 2026. This will be in preparation for the FIFA World Cup, as high-end premium products are purchased by broadcasters, particularly in North America.”

Futuresource Consulting’s Professional PTZ Camera Market FY2023 report assesses the current state of the market and provides an outlook on the shape of the sector over the next five years. For more information or to make a purchase, please contact Ben at ben.thrussell@futuresource-hq.com.