Datacolor Spyder X2

X2 Ultra measures up to 2000 cd/m2

Setting up your screen [19mins video]

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Datacolor Spyder X2 monitor calibrator

Monitor calibration/profiling with the Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra

The Spyder X2 allows for calibration of monitors and projectors.

The X2 Ultra version supports screens up to 2000 cd/m2 [2000 nits] for HDR and projection. The example here shows monitor calibration at the very low colour temperature of 4000K to match ambient room lighting for print matching and recording video with a screen in it.

The Ilfolux print viewing light has its own video review.

For a longer written review looking at profiling and the software see:

• Datacolor Spyder X Elite review

I’ve used Datacolor Spyder devices over the years. For all reviews and product news see the Datacolor category in the dropdown list at the right.

Features

• Lens-based, expanded X2 sensor capabilities allows for enhanced color/brightness range calibration in today’s HDR/high-brightness monitor market, up to 2000 nits.
• Ideal for both photo and video, as well as digital design, content creation and HDR content production and consumers with high brightness monitor/advanced calibration needs.
• Adaptable X2 sensor ensures precision calibration for today’s high-brightness monitors, connected TVs and projectors plus ensures ongoing functionality with future technical advances in HDR/high-brightness monitors.
• Remastered software provides a cleaner more concise user interface (UI) experience.
• New hardware with native USB-C connection. Also includes USB-A adaptor for added convenience.
• Ultimate color control capabilities (High Brightness Workflow; Video & Cinema Targets (Rec. 709, Rec.2020); Advanced Display Mapping & Analysis; unlimited calibration settings; Soft Proofing; Studio Match for multiple monitor calibration.
  Note: Make sure HDR mode is turned off before calibrating your monitor to avoid inaccurate results.

Datacolor Spyder X2 Specifications

WHAT’S IN THE BOX

• Datacolor Spyder X2 colorimeter
• USB-C to USB-A Adapter
• Welcome card with link to software download and warranty information
• Unique serial number to activate software
• Link to on-line demonstrations, user guide, videos and support

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

• Windows 10 32/64, Windows 11
• Mac OS X 10.14, 10.15, 11 (Big Sur), 12 (Monterey), 13 (Ventura)
• Monitor resolution 1280×768 or greater, 16-bit video card (24-bit recommended), 1GB of available RAM, 500MB of available hard disk
• Internet connection for software download

Why you need monitor calibration

One of the simplest means to improving the consistency and quality of your photo editing workflow is to make sure that your monitor is properly calibrated.

The profiling/calibration process is a simple one and aims to get your screen to a known state.

At its simplest, is the white on your screen properly white? A slight magenta cast may not be noticeable, since our eyes rapidly adapt, but try and print the image or send it off for printing and that magenta cast of your screen may well lead to a greenish cast to your prints?

Why? Well in an attempt to get good looking colour for your photos on your screen you may edit them a ‘bit too green’ to compensate for the magenta cast. That’s fine on your uncalibrated screen, but that green you’ve added appears in your prints.

Then you wonder – “Is my printer not quite right?”

In truth, you don’t know where the problem might be. My key reason for using colour management is that it lets me be ‘right first time’ more often. Note I make no mention of ‘correct’ colours here, that’s a notion that has many issues in of itself – I just want to do better.

One other reason to calibrate your screen – having a screen set too bright is one of the commonest causes of prints coming out too dark. See my Top ten reasons your prints look wrong for more