Whether you are an amateur or a professional, when it comes to vlogging, you want to have the best camera for the value. Vlogging doesn’t just require engaging content but also quality visuals and audio, so a good camera should be a priority if you want to be a successful Vlogger.
There are just too many video cameras to choose from, and without the technical knowledge, you’ll end up being frustrated. You may also end up spending way more on a camera than what you really need. Here, we break down our top 10 picks of the best cameras for vlogging on Youtube, Instagram, and other similar social media platforms. This guide will help you get the most bang for your buck if you’re aiming to become a successful Vlogger.
Top 10 Picks – Cameras for Vlogging
- Best Camera for everything: Panasonic Lumix GH5 “one of the most versatile and dynamic cameras in terms of tools and vlog production.”
- Best Budget Camera: Canon PowerShot SX740 “A very affordable Canon model with a 20.3-megapixel CMOS chip!”
- Best Vlogging Camera under $100: Sony DSCW800/B 20.1 MP “ For a great Vlogging camera under 100 bucks, this would be my first pick for sure.”
- Best for Live Streaming for Vlogging: GoPro HERO7 Black “Has the ability to record amazing and top notch 4K with needle point precision.”
- Best Vlogging Camera for 4K: Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 IV “Great image quality, compact design and 20 megapixel images for pro quality”
- Best Camera for Instagram: Olympus PEN E-PL9 “The best camera for shooting and capturing the moment at an added value.”
- Best Budget Camera for Vlogging: Canon PowerShot SX740 Digital Camera “ You can’t do much better than the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS for price and value!”
- Best compact and pocket camera for Vlogging: DJI Osmo Pocket “A great compact camera with smooth video quality and better yet it fits in your pocket.”
- Best Daily Vlog Compact Camera: Canon G7X Mark II “Excellent low and mid ISO image quality especially the fine detail setting for incredible picture style.
- Best Scenery and focus camera: Nikon D850 “Incredible 3.6x digital zoom that allows vloggers to get up and personal with their subjects on Vlogs.”
Top 10 Cameras with Detailed Reviews
<Best Camera for everything>
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Panasonic Lumix GH5
The Panasonic camera is a powerhouse for the price and what you get overall. Why? Because the image quality is amazing and pristine. Also, the camera is full of custom buttons to give you ultimate control of your recording experience. Some other dynamic features include focus peaking, which is amazing when shooting at f1.4 to f0.95 when you're changing focus during a shot. Image stabilization is highly valued on this camera as well. For example, with any shooting problems, this camera fixes all the frustrations and upgrades the image amazingly.
The Panasonic camera is great for photos, videos, and has spectacular features, like the post focus. The high frame rate capabilities and the uncompressed video is the best thing about this camera. This camera is highly recommend if you want to spend the money. In summary, the Panasonic GH5 is certainly one of the most versatile and dynamic cameras in terms of tools and vlog production.
In conclusion, the camera has a great quality that it hard to beat and compare to most cameras. The biggest problem you’ll face is with special circumstances in regards to lighting. In addition, you will have to invest in tools and accessories.
Why We Like It:
- One of the most versatile and dynamic cameras in terms of tools and vlog production.
Why We Hate It:
- The camera has issues in low-light and needs additional accessories.
<Best Budget Camera for Vlogging>
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Canon PowerShot SX740 Digital Camera
Because the Canon’s most up to date travel zoom compact camera features impressive quality and things that are a necessity for vloggers on the go. The Canon PowerShot itself is small, so it is handy and easy to carry for vloggers always on the move. This Canon model has a 20.3-megapixel CMOS chip, which has gotten great customer feedback. Another positive aspect of this camera, the Canon has the capacity to record in the 4k time lapse mode. Moreover, in the 4k mode, there is way to do cropping for using still images from video clips. However, on the negative side, the Canon PowerShot SX740 has problems with shooting at night, so it is a good value camera with notable issues.
Finally, what makes this camera wonderful is the ease of use for vloggers. Once you are ready to publish your vlog then the Canon really shines. Basically, transferring the footage is super easy through Canon’s camera connect app or you can also just WiFi.
Why We Like It:
- The price is right. You can’t do much better than the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS for price!
Why We Hate It:
- You have to use a Sony program to download your photos, so this may be a big turnoff.
<Best Camera for Live Streaming for your Vlogging>
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GoPro HERO7 Black
The Gopro Hero7 Black camera is great for vlogging in a variety of ways. In the ever popular realm of immediate access and constant communication with your viewers then you need the right camera. Some of the bigger names of vlogging use cameras like this of course, so another reason to consider the GoPro Hero7 Black camera.
What makes this camera so special? The GoPro Hero7 Black camera is very special because it also lets you live stream to a number of the premier and exclusive social media platforms directly like YouTube and much more.
Also, this camera offers exceptional recording quality that will go a long way to make your videos and vlogs more professional. Because the GoPro Hero7 camera has the ability to record amazing and top notch 4K with needle point precision and video stabilization. There, regardless of if you’re biking, skiing, or just walking around, or of course running, your videos will be smooth and appear stable in presentation.
In summary, the video capabilities are top quality and similar to what you would find in many similar models. The possibilities of making a top of the line vlog with instant access are limitless with the GoPro Hero7 Black camera. The cost of the camera may seem quite steep at $399 though so keep that in mind.
Why We Like It:
- The GoPro Hero 7 lets you live stream to a number of the premier and exclusive social media platforms directly like YouTube.
Why We Hate It:
- The cost of the camera is pricey, so you will need to be sure before buying.
<Best Camera for 4K video Vlogging>
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Sony Cyber Shot RX100 IV
In terms of other characteristics, you can take the Sony Cyber Shot anywhere, as it is very portable and compact. The ease of this camera is apparent for sure. Another important thing to point out is that the combined optical and electronic stabilization are intuitive. Basically, you can this in handheld mode, so this is wonderful for vloggers. Also, the LCD screen has the ability to flip up a full 180 degrees. Ultimately, you are able to provide top of the vlogging angles while walking and talking.
The biggest downfall of the Sony Cyber RX100 is that it has no external microphone input. This camera records audio via a built-in microphone, however the Sony Cyber Shot will not perform well in environments with lots of background noise.
Why We Like It:
- Provides wonderful 20-megapixel images. The Sony Cyber Shot features a 1-inch-type sensor, which means great detail.
Why We Hate It:
- No external microphone input and the camera is pricey.
<Best Camera for Instagram>
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Olympus PEN E-PL9
A thing to remember about this Olympus camera is that it is the ideal camera for someone who had been using a smartphone for vlogging. The Olympus E-PL9 is considered a good starter camera because it has a 16 Megapixel mirrorless camera offered at an affordable price. Moreover, this Olympus model is the next step for any vlogger wanting to explore their more creative photographic side.
Specifically, the Olympus Pen EPL9 camera, which is common among PEN and OMD models mostly, the EPL9 is based on the Micro Four Thirds standard, offing a multitude access to the largest selection of native mirrorless lenses around.
Why We Like It:
- Considered possibly the best camera for shooting and capturing the moment.
Why We Hate It:
- No built in viewfinder or no external viewfinder option.
<Best compact and pocket camera for Vlogging>
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DJI Osmo Pocket
When handling the camera, make sure to handle the camera to flip it around for a multitude of features and effects. The DJI Osmo has a 25.7mm focal length, so you have a rock steady camera that fits in your pocket and does a lot. The size of the camera is the selling point of this camera in many ways because as a vlogger you want to use something that is easy to use and compact.
The negatives are mainly in regard to the sound quality and usability of the camera. So, you’ll need a microphone adaptor and an external mic, which is seen as a drawback. Overall, there is a need to buy accessories to make this camera fully functional for vloggers.
Why We Like It:
- A great compact camera with smooth video quality and better yet it fits in your pocket.
Why We Hate It:
- The downside of this camera has to do with the sound quality and usability, so you need an external microphone.
<Best Daily Vlog Compact Camera>
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Canon G7X Mark II
Moreover, night shooting is fantastic, and it's very easy to do timelapses and do pristince images at night and other times.
The Canon GX7 has excellent low and mid ISO image quality especially the fine detail setting for picture style. Many are happy with detailed sharpness and punchy, great-looking colors of this Canon model. Furthermore, this Canon model feature a raw processing, which can be useful for photo and video geeks.
The positives outweigh the negatives for someone looking for a maximum usage camera for vlogging. The biggest disadvantage is that the battery is simply not capable of supporting what this camera can do. The Canon would do better with a battery twice its size, so buy at least one extra battery.
Why We Like It:
- Excellent low and mid ISO image quality especially the fine detail setting for incredible picture style.
Why We Hate It:
- The battery is simply not capable of supporting what this camera can do.
<Best DSLR Camera for Vlogging>
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Canon EOS 80D
This Canon model really delivers the goods for DSLR, digital single lens reflex camera, so you will be more than satisfied. One of the best features of this Canon model is the touch screen, so it gives you ultimate control. Because the Canon 80d has fantastic autofocus, that provides the touch screen for maximum ease. Great if you want to do some focus pulls and make videos. In addition, the screen of the Canon model is also articulating and dynamic for multi-use in photo and of course videos.
Also, this Canon model has a fairly large LCD screen, especially compared to a smaller camera like the Sony A6300. This Canon D series was one of the most popular video cameras over the last 2 years for a variety of reasons. Why? Because you’re able to quickly pull focus using the touch screen and do successful face tracking for creative and live videos.
Finally, compared to other Canon cameras, the 80d has added on the side, a headphone jack. This is ideal for monitoring audio and recording your video.
Now, despite many advantages, the con is pretty big. This Canon model has no 4K just 1080p HD only on the 80D. The camera is seen as being too heavy among certain vloggers, so keep this in mind.
Why We Like It:
- The Canon model has an incredible touch screen, so it gives you ultimate control along with fantastic autofocus.
Why We Hate It:
- No 4K just 1080p HD only on the 80D model.
<Best Vlogging Camera under $100>
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Sony DSCW800/B 20.1 MP Digital Camera
The Sony DSCW800 camera is a vlogger’s dream. Why? The price is right for one, and secondly the features it offers are really quite impressive. This Sony camera features a 20.1MP Super HAD CCD Sensor which captures dynamic and sharp video. Another quite big advantage of having a HAD CCD sensor is that its has much greater contrast and clarity compared to similar models. This gave me great results when recording in a wide range of environments.
The amount of Amazon reviews testifies to the huge popularity of this camera. Better yet, the camera has an average rating of 4 stars. If I had to decide on a Vlogging camera for under 100 bucks, this would be my first pick. Also, to note, there is a 20.1MP Super HAD CCD Sensor which captures vibrant and detailed video.
Some of the negatives are more irritating than technical. For example, you have to use a Sony program to download your photos and videos to your computer. Also, the battery takes a while to fully charge.
Why We Like It:
- This camera features a 20.1MP Super HAD CCD Sensor which captures dynamic and sharp video.
Why We Hate It:
- You have to use a Sony program to download your photos, so this may be a big turnoff.
<Best Scenery and focus camera>
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Nikon D850
Another ultra-popular vlogger option, the Nikon D850 is an ideal solution for amateurs or professionals who want to capture 4K video footage. If you want autofocus then this is the camera that you want because you are able to do the hyper fast autofocusing at (0.05 seconds) plus 24fbs for continuous shooting.
The biggest advantage of the Nikon D850 camera is the ability of the 3.6x digital zoom. This zoom feature allows vloggers to be intimate and get up and personal with their subjects while vlogging. Furthermore, reviewing footage is a bonus feature, which is powered by Nikon’s three-inch Xtra fine LCD display. Also, the Nikon features a lensview that swings up 180 degrees and down 45 degrees, so vlogging is made easy. The Nikon camera really shines for vloggers who want dynamic and crisp video footage.
All in all, the Nikon D850 is a piece of equipment you need to get to know. The camera offers a lot of features, but you need to sit down and learn how to maximize certain popular settings like ISO and white balance.
Why We Like It:
- Incredible 3.6x digital zoom that allows vloggers to get up and personal with their subjects on Vlogs.
Why We Hate It:
- The screen is not touch sensitive, so this may waste time and more importantly it is very expensive.
How to choose a Vlogging Camera
When you vlog, you want a camera that is adaptable, high quality, and able to easily and effortlessly showcase your vlogging adventures. No matter how tempting it is to vlog on your smartphone, it’s not a good idea in the long run for creating successful and engaging vlogs. You will want to buy a camera just for vlogging because it will allow you to create more high-quality videos that will help bring in a wider audience.
Some primary features to be aware of when picking out a camera include: the lens, video quality, microphone input, stabilization, autofocus, and WiFi. For example, any vlogger will want to have a camera with an LCD screen that is able to flip back and forward to the front, so that you have the ease and ability to see yourself while you're filming. There are so many cameras out on the market, each with slightly different specifications, that it’s often hard to figure out exactly which one is best for your specific vlogging needs.
Important Features for Vlogging Cameras
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Video Quality:
Video resolution is crucial. Why? Simply because good quality videos are expected. Of course, you'll see 720p, 1080p, and 4K in most, but make sure the quality holds up.
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Microphone Input:
You need to be heard and audio quality is key. Of course having good visuals is crucial, however wonderful sound will keep your vlogs appealing. Therefore, for ideal quality sound, pick a camera that lets you connect an alternate microphone. A camera needs to be upgradable and flexible for change in the audio department.
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Stabilization:
Whether you are a vlogger who sits in front of the camera or not, you will need a camera that optimize stabilization. Because when you make videos with action and movement then built-in optical image stabilization is vital. So, this feature will guarantee that your videos will come out smooth no matter what you're doing.
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Autofocus:
This is important because vloggers tend to work alone, so ultimately autofocus is essential. Therefore, a camera with an effective and quick autofocus system is needed. Autofocus enables the camera to always keep you in focus while you’re recording. Fast and effective autofocus is key.
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Wi-Fi:
This is crucial for any vlogger because you have to film, record, and upload many vlogs. WiFi is a feature that you need. As a vlogger, you’ll need to film and upload lots of vlogs. A camera that comes with built-in Wi-Fi can automatically upload your videos and make vlogging much easier. The Wi-Fi feature will be especially useful if you plan to upload your vlogs to YouTube, which can automatically sync with many modern cameras.
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Lens:
The lens is crucial because you are then able to capture more light with the appropriate lens. A wide aperture lens is also wonderful for improving the design, look, and feel of the vlog you create. For example, if you are creative, you can allow the lens to simulate a blurred background effect for your vlogs.
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Flip Screen:
This is an important component for your camera if you are doing vlogging alone. The flip screen makes your camera handy while maintaining good video quality.
Types of Cameras for Vloggers
There are a variety of wonderful and not great cameras for vlogging, so knowing what you want is half the battle. Here are some of the different types of cameras you want to learn about to understand fully what and why makes a camera recommendable.
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DSLRs:
The DSLR camera, which is a digital single-lens reflex camera, combines the optics and the mechanisms of a single-lens reflex camera with a digital imaging sensor, as opposed to photographic film. This camera offers the best options and flexibility when it comes to capturing both photos and video. If you are keen on multimedia or want to mix photography and vlogging, the pick a camera that can do both well.
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Action Cams:
This type of camera is the most suitable for bloggers who want to do action and adventure based vlogging. If you are doing vlogging on the move, then action cams are an important option to consider.
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Cameras that require interchangeable lenses:
Some cameras require a lot of practice or study. So, if you’re a novice, use a simple and affordable camera before investing in expensive equipment that you might not need or use.
