You’d be surprised how many fantastic YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram channels feature folks talking to a front-facing camera; with the best cameras for vlogging, it’s a simple way to deliver content to countless followers. Amateurs use the camera on their smartphones but nothing beats the crisp quality and user-friendliness of a vlogging camera, and we’ve compiled a list of the best models available.
Whether you’re looking for a camera to start your journey to internet stardom, or would just like to improve your video quality, this list of the best cameras for vlogging will not only capture you as you ham it up, but produce some seriously crisp content that you won’t have to patch up in editing.
— Best Overall: Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera
— Best for YouTube Vlogging: Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Camera
— Best for Outdoors: GoPro HERO10
— Best for Beginners: DJI Pocket 2 Creator Combo
— Best Premium: Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera
How We Picked The Best Cameras for Vlogging
The differences between a good vlogging camera and a bad vlogging camera can be subtle, especially at first glance. Plenty of cams look flashy and fancy, but will produce less than great quality. And if you’re going to buy a dedicated camera for vlogging, it should make shooting video easier, not harder.
Methodology
Video Quality: As far as we’re concerned, it’s 4K or it’s not worth buying. Even the more affordable offerings shoot in 4K these days. Some even go up to 8K, which is mostly overkill, but the extra definition may be just the ticket to stand out on various social media platforms. Plus, if you plan on uploading to YouTube, the algorithm adores everything 4K. When you're looking for the best camera for vlogging 4k, keep in mind that many cameras also come with preset lighting settings for shooting food, animals, sports, and night filming. This is always a welcome addition, so you can flip through presets on the fly, as needed.
User-Friendly: Point, click, shoot. It shouldn’t be any more complicated than that. And sadly, it often is. Some cameras made for vlogging get bogged down in plenty of “optional” features that make them feel as involved as DSLRs. Not that there’s anything wrong with DSLRs, but vlogging cameras are known primarily for being incredibly user-friendly. The extra configurable settings like FPS, video format, and lighting shouldn’t bog down the camera. A dedicated “Auto” mode should work smoothly, for easy, and reliable video recording.
Sound Capture: Oftentimes, wannabe videographers overlook a crucial element of production: audio. What good is 4K video capture if the audio quality sounds like traffic on a Los Angeles freeway? When you're looking for the best video camera for vlogging, there are a couple ways to ensure the sound comes in as clear as the picture. Some vloggers record with an external microphone and sync up the audio with the video. This is a little trickier than it needs to be and requires really good timing. The better cameras allow you to incorporate the microphone to record the audio as you record video through a USB or audio input. Even better is if the camera comes with its own dedicated microphone.
Portability: Every camera is portable to some degree, unless you’re lugging around a film-quality number or an ancient camcorder you purchased at a flea market. But how portable should a camera be? If it needs its own dedicated carrying case, is it really that portable? Plenty of models, especially with the lens removed, can fit snug in most pants pockets. It truly depends on your vlogging needs, but the more portable a camera is, the easier it will be to vlog on the go. You can also capture panoramic shots with the best 360 cameras.
The Best Cameras For Vlogging
Best Camera for Vlogging Overall: Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera
Why It Made the Cut: The Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera was built with creatives in mind, and it excels at being both a vlogging and content creation tool.
Specs:
— Dimensions: 4.3 inches L x 1.4 inches W x 2.6 inches H
— Weight: 0.65 pounds
— Camera Type: Digital camera
— Pixels: 20.1
— Aspect Ratio: 4:3 up to 4K
Pros:
— Built-in microphone is a game-changer
— Custom presets for different social media platforms
— Dynamic cinematic effects
Cons:
— No interchangeable lenses
Sony set out to make a digital camera just for creators, and they succeeded in spades. Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera’s built-in microphone optimizes sound to go along with the crisp 4K video capture.
Sony ZV-1 captures faces perfectly with some of the best and most responsive autofocus out there. The camera won’t wander once you start shooting or livestreaming but vloggers can shift focus to the background with a simple click. There’s even a dedicated Product Showcase setting that will use this camera’s autofocus power for still objects. The Background Bokeh setting can blur backgrounds just like a DSLR, to make faces and objects pop even more. And with countless picture effects and creative styles available to choose from, the visual possibilities are endless, even before you hit the editing bay. They’re so good, you can probably skip editing altogether. Video shot on the Sony ZV-1 can be shared to your smartphone wirelessly, where it can be further edited, optimized, and uploaded to all your favorite platforms. Aside from this, the camera has the usual vlogging features anyone should be looking for, including a flipout LCD screen and a light that flashes when you’re recording.
The one downside is that you’re stuck using the lens the camera came with. However, it may be more than enough for all your vlogging needs. The camera alone is great, but the combination tripod/selfie-stick in its accessory kit makes it perfect.
Best Camera YouTube Vlogging: Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Camera
Why It Made the Cut: Canon EOS M200 expertly blends useability with speed, making it a solid entry for vloggin’ YouTubers.
Specs:
— Dimensions: 1.4 inches L x 4.3 inches W x 2.6 inches H
— Weight: 0.65 pounds
— Camera Type: Digital single-lens mirrorless AF/AE camera
— Pixels: 24.1 megapixels
— Aspect Ratio: 3:2 up to 4K
Pros:
— Vertical video support
— Responsive touchscreen LCD panel
— Syncs up to phone for remote shooting or file transfer
Cons:
— No way to incorporate audio optimization
Firing up the Canon EOS M200 may be a little jarring. It’s one of the most responsive cameras out there, which makes it great for anyone with dreams of YouTube stardom and the best camera for YouTube vlogging.
As a dedicated 4K camera, Canon EOS M200 is as reliable as it is quick. Its manual focus is incredibly responsive when you go live, and will track everything from faces to food with a simple click on the touchscreen. The screen flips up and rotates, so you can watch yourself as you record, but even if you’re not that vigilant, you can rest easy knowing the Canon EOS M200 won’t miss a mark. It’s even fantastic as a still camera, letting you use presets before shooting or applying the visual effects after. Because it syncs up to a smartphone app (available on iOS and Android), fresh content can be quickly and easily uploaded to YouTube, Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram. This is especially true of video shot in the camera’s dedicated vertical mode.
The only thing that’s missing is a way to optimize audio through a companion microphone. Even Canon’s microphone won’t work here. But unless you’re uploading guitar covers, the built-in audio recording capabilities may be enough for most needs. Like the Sony ZV1, this camera pairs perfectly with a tripod that doubles as a selfie stick, complete with a wireless remote to operate it from afar.
Best for Outdoors: GoPro HERO10
Why It Made the Cut: GoPro cameras are synonymous with reliability, and the HERO10 comes with plenty of features for all kinds of vloggers.
Specs:
— Dimensions: 1.3 inches L x 2.8 inches W x 2.2 inches H
— Weight: 0.35 pounds
— Camera Type: Waterproof Action Camera
— Pixels: 23 megapixels
— Aspect Ratio: 4:3 and 16:9, up to 5K
Pros:
— Lightning fast processor
— Powerful, durable, and waterproof
— Compatible with 30 different mounts and accessories
Cons:
— Runs a little hot, occasionally overheats
GoPro cameras may be built with action shots in mind, but you don’t have to be a skater, surfer, offroader, or rugged outdoorsman to use this camera to its full potential. The GoPro HERO10 is also a great option for vloggers on the go.
The HERO10 packs a lot of power in a small space. Unlike other cameras, it’s waterproof up to 33 feet, and a good bit more durable than any other camera featured here. While it records up to 5K, it also lets you livestream in 1080p, so long as your connection is stable, the HERO10’s low-light, timelapse, and quick response are all thanks to its shiny new GP2 processor. And with HyperSmooth 4.0, the HERO10’s operation is silky smooth, with great stabilization from any angle. You can customize the HERO10 with plenty of optimized accessories, like a directional mic, wide lens, a larger display, and even a waterproof lighting attachment, to name a few of the countless ways to make the HERO10 your own.
Sadly, it does run a little hot, and some users even report the camera occasionally overheating. But even with these occasional inconveniences, it remains a pretty solid camera for vlogging. If you plan on vlogging outdoors near bodies of water, or even volcanoes, the GoPro HERO10 comes highly recommended. For more options, check out the best GoPro cameras.
Best Vlogging Camera for Beginners: DJI Pocket 2 Creator Combo
Why It Made The Cut: The DJI Pocket 2 is a fantastic standalone vlogging camera, but with everything in this kit, it’s everything a budding content-creator needs.
Specs:
— Dimensions: 5.98 inches L x 2.32 inches W x 2.99 inches H
— Weight: 0.25 pounds
— Camera Type: 3 Axis Gimbal Stabilizer with 4K Camera
— Pixels: 64 megapixels
— Aspect Ratio: 16:9, 4K
Pros:
— Truly pocket-sized and portable
— Tracks quickly moving subjects
— AI powered editor optimizes all content you shoot
Cons:
— Less than stellar privacy settings
Yes, the DJI Pocket 2 is in fact, a fully-fledged camera. While it may resemble a modified tripod, this handheld, ultra-portable stick packs serious video recording power. Combined with the extra accessories in its Creator Combo, it’s one of the best all-in-one content creation kits and best vlogging cameras for beginners.
The DJI Pocket 2 is a seriously smart camera. Its ActiveTrack 3.0 technology effortlessly tracks whatever you point it at, even if that’s just a bright, happy face. Whether you’re vlogging in 4K or taking a selfie, DJI Pocket 2 is incredibly reliable. The Creator Combo comes with tons of great accessories that optimize video recording quality. A control stick, wireless microphone, wide-angle lens, tripod, and smartphone adapter helps even total newbies shoot great video quickly and easily.
There is one downside, and depending on your feelings on the matter, it’s potentially a deal breaker. DJI will block you from using the camera after only five times, unless you activate it by connecting it to a smartphone app on Android or iOS. From there, DJI requires you to allow location settings. If you’re worried about privacy at all, this likely isn’t the camera for you. However, the value of the camera quality along with its accessories may be worth the trade for some.
Best Premium: Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera
Why It Made The Cut: Nabbing a Sony RX100 VII will require a massive investment, but it may just be the best vlogging camera ever.
Specs:
— Dimensions: 2.37 inches L x 4 inches W x 1.68 inches H
— Weight: 0.67 pounds
— Camera Type: Telephoto Camera
— Pixels: 20.1 megapixels
— Aspect Ratio: 3:2, 4K
Pros:
— Excellent color and texture reproduction
— Real-time AF for animals and people
— The best in low-light shooting
Cons:
— Astronomical price if it’s only used for vlogging
Do you know of any other camera with an OLED screen in its viewfinder? Superfluous? Maybe. But crystal-clear viewfinder aside, everything else about the Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera screams premium.
When it comes to finding the best camera for vlogging and streaming and recording in 4K, the RX100 leaves no guesswork, with some of the most user-friendly shooting features. The camera packs some seriously smooth auto-focus features to track both people and animals. Whether you’re recording from your desk or on-the-move, RX100 doesn’t falter for a second. Still, simply touching the screen lets you refocus objects as you record, depending on where you want the viewers attention to go. It even has enhanced stability so even shakier hands will feel at home operating the camera. This makes the Sony RX100 not simply a great camera for vlogging, but for full-blown content creation or even filmmaking. As easy to use and as glorious as its video capture capabilities are, it may be overkill if you’re primarily looking for a vlogging camera. Still, if you want the best of the best tech and are willing to make the investment, the Sony RX100 VII is as premium as it gets.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Vlogging Camera
Subject Matter
Vlogging is such a broad category, and comes with plenty of subgenres. You’d be surprised how many different ways you can stretch the concept of talking in front of a camera, especially on YouTube and TikTok. NikkieTutorials shows off the latest cosmetics and how to apply them. J. Kenji Lopez Alt walks you through making fancy dishes for you and your family directly from his kitchen. These two couldn’t be further apart, and yet could both qualify as vloggers. Before you decide which vlogging camera is right for you, you may want to consider what exactly you will be vlogging about. Singing covers of popular Disney songs will require a good microphone like the Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera. If you plan on getting off the beaten path and vlogging outdoors, the GoPro HERO10 may be a more prudent choice.
Location
It’s no question that vlogging is much easier to do if you decide to set up a rig in a home office or dedicated “studio” area. Controlling the scenery behind you is ideal for producing clean and professional-looking vlogging. There are countless vloggers out there, but even the ones spitting pablum in front of a camera have polished shooting situations. If you do plan on vlogging in different locations, having a secure and good quality carrying case for your expensive camera is a must. Luckily, just about every popular camera has a case available for purchase.
Necessity
We know what it’s like to catch the YouTube bug. But before you go investing in a big studio, editing software, and a new fancy camera, we advise you to use caution before you spend dollar one. Dip your toes in the water, start a channel on whatever platform you’ll use as your avenue to e-stardom, and read up on the algorithm. Sadly, quality content will only get you so far. But if you can tick all the boxes that various platforms like YouTube and Instagram look for, you may just be able to draw in a captivated audience. For your first few videos, you could probably get by using the camera inside your smartphone, especially if you’ve got a newer model. As long as it records in 1080p or above, video should come in pretty clear. After a month of solid content creation, if you haven’t burned out, you can invest in a solid vlogging camera to make your content all the more compelling.
Accessories
As we touched on previously, a solid video recording setup with a great vlogging camera is just the beginning of great content. There are a few accessories you can add into the mix to help personalize your video further. A collapsible green screen offers endless possibilities for where you’re shooting your vlog, whether it’s in the middle of an active volcano or the moon. A smart floor light also offers a way to mix up the background with a smack of color. Light is often the difference between good video and great video, regardless of how fancy your vlogging camera is. Luckily, the Lume Cube cordless ring light is within most budgets. And you can polish up your images with the best video editing software.
FAQs
Q: What is the best camera for vlogging?
The best camera for vlogging is easily the Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera because of its video and audio capture capabilities.
Q: What camera do YouTubers use for vlogging?
Not every YouTuber uses the same camera. A few popular cameras used by YouTube vloggers includes the GoPro HERO7 and the Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Camera.
Q: What is a good vlogging camera for beginners?
For those breaking into the vlogging game, the DJI Pocket 2 Creator Combo is a great camera for beginners. You could also use the camera in your smartphone before deciding to invest in a vlogging camera.
Q: What is the cheapest camera for vlogging?
Vlogging cameras run as low as $85 but are severely lacking in quality. GoPro cameras offer a slew of affordable options and are all fairly reliable.
Q: What equipment do vloggers use?
Along with a good camera, vloggers also use a lighting setup, and an external microphone for audio capture.
Q: How much is a vlogging camera?
Vlogging cameras run from a couple hundred dollars all the way to about $1,200. Our winner, the Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera, lies somewhere near the upper middle of the price range.
Q: What is the best camera for travel vlogging?
Without question, the best camera for travel vlogging is the GoPro HERO10 because it’s built for the outdoors. It’s a good bit more durable and waterproof than any of the other cameras in its category.
Final Thoughts on Cameras for Vlogging
Standing out in the din of social media isn’t impossible, but it is difficult to do. Conquering the ever-changing algorithm and producing eye-catching content is half the battle. Luckily when it comes to making good quality video, a solid vlogging camera makes producing, shooting and editing a little easier. The Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera is a clear winner in this regard, considering its microphone is built into the camera. Capturing audio won’t require any secondary accessories, or fussy editing in post. For aspiring vloggers with adventure in mind, the GoPro HERO10 is built for the big, beautiful world outside your door, and is customizable with a bevy of accessories.
This post was created by a non-news editorial team at Recurrent Media, Futurism’s owner. Futurism may receive a portion of sales on products linked within this post.
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