At first glance, the teleprompter seems like a tool reserved for media outlets and official communication channels, but it doesn't have to be that way. Even a simple presentation can be improved with a teleprompter or “autocue,” and the good news is that the web offers some free alternatives for personal use. Today we’ll share two of them.
Why Use an Online Teleprompter?
The teleprompter doesn’t have the best reputation. When a politician or public official uses one, it’s automatically associated with a lack of naturalness, too much coaching, limitations in memorizing or conveying simple messages, and more. However, this technology can be very useful as a “memory aid” (yes, it’s a real word—check the dictionary), indicating essential points during a presentation.
The best part is that you don’t have to invest thousands of dollars to access a basic teleprompter. The web offers very interesting free alternatives, and today we’ll mention two.
Teleprompter-Online
Despite its partial Spanish translation, Teleprompter-Online has exactly everything we need: speed and duration control, font size control, audio recording support, mirror mode, and reverse mode, in case we have to place the monitor in an unusual position. Teleprompter-Online also works well with fullscreen, and I recommend it regardless of screen size.
CuePrompter
If you feel you need extra options for your online teleprompter, you’ll definitely find them in CuePrompter. In addition to text size, speed, and special modes, its interface allows us to adjust the margin, text color, background color, and something very important like justification. The available options are two (center and left), but I imagine many users will be happy to see them there. If for some reason the standard editing doesn’t load correctly, CuePrompter keeps a “legacy” version.
In Summary
I have no doubt there are more online teleprompters out there, but these two cover the vast majority of cases. Of course, a professional environment shouldn’t think twice and acquire appropriate tools; however, “Teleprompter-Online” and “CuePrompter” will do a good job in personal sessions. Good luck!
