Differences Between Spyder X2 Versions
This article just summarises the key differences between the new Spyder X2 models.
The new X2 range models all use the same hardware. The differences between the two models are all in the software, and if you buy an Elite then you can upgrade to the Ultra later (we're told - we have not yet done this or seen how it works!).
The new X2 range uses lens based filters - so it would seem the issues of built in obsolescence that plagued the older models in the Spyder line have now been solved - which is great (if long overdue!).
We'll be evaluating these new units soon. In the meantime, this article should clarify the differences between the new options.
(The features are listed on the left with the options/offerings for each model in the other two columns).
User Profile
Description
Recommended User Profile
Spyder X2 Elite
- Photography
- Video
- Digital Design
- Content Creator
Spyder X2 Ultra
- Photography
- Video
- Digital Design
- Content Creator
- HDR Enthusiast
Experience Level
Description
Recommended user experience level
Spyder X2 Elite
Beginner-Advanced
Spyder X2 Ultra
Intermediate-Advanced
Benefits
Description
Unique benefits of each calibrator
Spyder X2 Elite
- Colour Accuracy
- Streamlined Workflow
- Fully Customizable Calibration Targets
Spyder X2 Ultra
- Colour Accuracy
- Streamlined Workflow
- Fully Customizable Calibration Targets
- High Brightness Calibration
Monitor Types Supported
Description
Supported monitor types
Spyder X2 Elite
- All-in-ones
- Industry Standard Laptops
- Desktops
- Projectors
Spyder X2 Ultra
- All-in-ones
- Industry Standard Laptops
- Desktops
- Projectors
- Most HDR Displays
Calibration Type
Description
Calibration types
Spyder X2 Elite
Colorimeter
Spyder X2 Ultra
Colorimeter
Software
Description
Name of software
Spyder X2 Elite
Spyder X2 Elite
Spyder X2 Ultra
Spyder X2 Ultra
Display Mapping & Analysis Tools
Description
Offers tools to check the quality of your display
Spyder X2 Elite
Advanced
Spyder X2 Ultra
Advanced
Calibration Setting Choices
Description
Total calibration options (combinations of gamma, white point and brightness)
Spyder X2 Elite
Unlimited
Spyder X2 Ultra
Unlimited
Expert Console Calibration
Description
All-in-one calibration control panel
Spyder X2 Elite
Yes
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
Video & Cinema Calibration Targets
Description
Calibration targets for motion work/dynamic imagery
Spyder X2 Elite
2 targets - Rec.709, Rec.2020
Spyder X2 Ultra
2 targets - Rec.709, Rec.2020
Soft Proof of Print Results
Description
Soft proofing with print output preview
Spyder X2 Elite
Yes
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
Projector Calibration
Description
Calibrates digital projectors
Spyder X2 Elite
No
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
Multiple Monitor Display Matching
Description
Defines a studio standard for all displays to be matched for simultaneous side-by side calibration (StudioMatch)
Spyder X2 Elite
No
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
Precisely Tune Side-by-Side Displays
Description
Visual fine tuning for side-by-side display match
Spyder X2 Elite
Yes
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
Single Click Calibration Capability
Description
Fast and easy calibration modes
Spyder X2 Elite
Yes
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
Multiple Monitor Calibration
Description
Supports calibration of multiple monitors
Spyder X2 Elite
Yes - supports calibration of multiple monitors. For 3+ displays using one computer, your video card must have 3 or more LUTs (Look-Up-Tables)
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes - supports calibration of multiple monitors. For 3+ displays using one computer, your video card must have 3 or more LUTs (Look-Up-Tables)
Ambient Light Monitoring
Description
Can adjust for room light changes
Spyder X2 Elite
Yes
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
Before and After Calibration Review
Description
Shows before & after comparison of display calibration
Spyder X2 Elite
Yes
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
High Brightness Workflow
Description
High Brightness Workflow
Spyder X2 Elite
No
Spyder X2 Ultra
Yes
Max luminance measurement
Description
Maximum luminesce (nits or cd/m2)
Spyder X2 Elite
750
Spyder X2 Ultra
2000
Backlight Options
Description
Backlight Options
Spyder X2 Elite
4
Spyder X2 Ultra
5
White Point Settings
Description
White point settings
Spyder X2 Elite
Unlimited
Spyder X2 Ultra
Unlimited
USB Connectivity
Description
USB connectivity type
Spyder X2 Elite
USB-C - (includes USB-A Adapter)
Spyder X2 Ultra
USB-C - (includes USB-A Adapter)
