With the release of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, Apple has once again raised the bar for mobile videography. Featuring the ability to record video in Apple ProRes at up to 4K resolution and 60 frames per second (fps), these devices empower creators to produce cinematic-quality content straight from their pocket. However, unlocking the full potential of ProRes 4K video capture requires more than just the right iPhone—it demands an external storage device that supports speeds of at least 220MB/s and a maximum power draw of 4.5W.
What Is ProRes 4K Video and Why Is It Important?
Apple ProRes is a professional video codec developed by Apple to deliver exceptional image quality while maintaining manageable video files. It enables multistream real-time editing, better performance while delivering professional image quality, and fewer compression artifacts compared to Efficiency Video Coding HEVC. With ProRes 4K video capture, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro models allow users to record video in Apple ProRes directly to a storage device that supports high bandwidth.
ProRes enables multistream real-time editing, making it ideal for creators handling multiple angles or high-frame-rate content on the go.
ProRes enables content creators to record ProRes files in supported resolutions and frame rates, including 4K at 60 fps and 4K120 ProRes recording sessions on iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This makes it ideal for professional videographers and creators using iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
Why Internal Storage Isn’t Enough for ProRes Recording
Recording ProRes video in Apple ProRes format generates massive files. For instance, 4K at 60 fps ProRes video files can exceed 6GB per minute. Apple has limited max support for ProRes recording at higher resolutions and frame rates only when using an external storage device connected via USB-C. This is necessary because internal storage on iPhones, even on iPhone 16 Pro models, cannot sustain the high write speeds and power requirements.
The external storage device must deliver consistent speeds of at least 220MB/s and draw no more than the second and maximum power threshold of 4.5W. Without this, users may receive a slow recording speed message or experience dropped frames during video capture.
What Kind of Portable SSD Do You Need?
To record video in Apple ProRes, your portable SSD must meet specific requirements:
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Write speeds of at least 220MB/s sustained
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USB-C or USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 support
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Power draw under 4.5W (the maximum power draw allowed)
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Format your external storage using exFAT or APFS
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Optimized for use with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max
Using a slower external storage device will result in performance issues and the inability to record ProRes 4K at higher fps.
Why Digiera Magnetic Portable SSD Is Ideal
Digiera’s Magnetic Portable SSD is engineered for high-performance ProRes 4K video capture. It’s an external storage device that supports speeds of up to 2000MB/s read and 1800MB/s write—far above what ProRes video capture demands.
Key benefits:
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Magnetic attachment for secure fit on iPhone 15/16 Pro Max
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Compatible with ProRes recording at all supported resolutions and frame rates, including FPS iPhone 15 Pro and FPS iPhone 16 Pro
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Low power draw that stays within Apple’s 4.5W limit
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Portable SSD form factor that suits mobile workflows
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Supports apps that support ProRes such as Mac Final Cut Pro and iMovie on iPhone, iPad, and Mac
Whether you’re editing on iPad Mini 6th generation or transferring video files to Mac OS X 10.6 and later, Digiera provides an external storage device that maintains performance while delivering professional quality.
How to Record ProRes Video Using an External Storage Device
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Format your external storage to exFAT or APFS
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Plug the Digiera SSD into your iPhone’s USB-C port
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Navigate to Settings > Camera > Formats, enable Apple ProRes
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Start recording in video mode – your footage is now being captured in ProRes directly to the SSD
This process ensures you avoid limitations from internal storage and use ProRes with Photos, iMovie, or Final Cut Pro for seamless editing workflows.
Top Use Cases
Mobile Filmmakers
Record ProRes 4K video with an external storage device connected to iPhone 16 Pro models. Take advantage of high-resolution video capture and edit a ProRes file directly on your iPad or Mac.
Professional Content Creators
Whether recording interviews or YouTube content, ensure reliable write speed for ProRes video without hitting power limits.
Corporate Teams and Field Creators
Capture multistream ProRes sessions on the go with Digiera’s external storage device that supports all iOS and macOS editing apps.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Using a slower external storage device can cause:
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Failed recording sessions
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Inability to record ProRes video in Apple ProRes
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Warning messages about slow recording speed
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Dropped frames and overheating
Always use a storage device that supports high write speeds and maximum power efficiency.
Conclusion: The Must-Have Gear for ProRes
Recording ProRes 4K video capture on iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max requires more than just a powerful phone—it requires the right external storage device. Digiera’s Magnetic Portable SSD meets all requirements, offering reliable speeds, low power draw, and seamless iPhone integration.
From capturing 4K at 120 fps to editing Apple ProRes files on Mac Final Cut Pro or iMovie, this portable SSD enables creators to manage their ProRes files smoothly, avoid recording interruptions, and produce professional-grade content from anywhere.