What it does
Datacolor Spyder combines a purchased USB colour-measurement sensor with desktop calibration software. The range covers basic monitor profiling and more advanced photo and video tasks, with SpyderPro adding display LUT export and device-preview tools.
Before a SpyderPro calibration, the quick-start guide calls for a warmed-up display, no direct light on the screen and automatic brightness disabled. Install and activate the software, connect the sensor and hang it against the display when prompted. The measured result becomes a custom profile used by the operating system and colour-managed applications.
For a compatible external video monitor, SpyderPro can export a .cube LUT to load onto the monitor. Its before-and-after view and calibration report help inspect the change. Device Preview simulates other outputs on the calibrated screen; it does not calibrate the phone or tablet being previewed.
The package includes a sensor and software activation serial. Software upgrades support specified newer Spyder hardware, while Spyder5 and earlier require a new device for SpyderPro.
Strengths
- Guided sensor placement leads to a usable display profile.
- SpyderPro adds a monitor LUT workflow and side-by-side calibration views.
Watch out for
- The workflow needs compatible physical hardware and a USB connection.
- Older Spyder models do not all qualify for a software-only upgrade.
Best for
- Photographers profiling their editing display
- Video creators preparing compatible external monitor LUTs
Sources
- Datacolor Spyder ecosystem (Oct 27, 2026)
- SpyderPro features, package and requirements (Oct 27, 2026)
- SpyderPro Quick Start Guide (Oct 27, 2026)
- Spyder ecosystem comparison and monitor-only calibration scope (Oct 27, 2026)