The 10 Best Vlogging Cameras for Youtubers

Did you know all you need is a good camera to kick start your vlogging career? If you’re a beginner looking to try out vlogging, settling for an affordable vlogging camera is the best option.

Many people often wonder what camera vloggers use. The cameras YouTubers use to vlog are often expensive and have many supporting equipment like a tripod and microphone. But you don’t need to have fancy and expensive equipment to make excellent vlogs.

The best cameras for vlogging are amazing to support your daily vlogging and shooting needs. The specialty of the vlogging cameras is that they are compact cameras that capture high-quality images effortlessly.

Did you know all you need is a good camera to kick start your vlogging career? If you’re a beginner looking to try out vlogging, settling for an affordable vlogging camera is the best option.

Many people often wonder what camera vloggers use. The cameras YouTubers use to vlog are often expensive and have many supporting equipment like a tripod and microphone. But you don’t need to have fancy and expensive equipment to make excellent vlogs.

The best cameras for vlogging are amazing to support your daily vlogging and shooting needs. The specialty of the vlogging cameras is that they are compact cameras that capture high-quality images effortlessly.

What is Vlogging

Did you know all you need is a good camera to kick start your vlogging career? If you’re a beginner looking to try out vlogging, settling for an affordable vlogging camera is the best option.

Many people often wonder what camera vloggers use. The cameras YouTubers use to vlog are often expensive and have many supporting equipment like a tripod and microphone. But you don’t need to have fancy and expensive equipment to make excellent vlogs.

The best cameras for vlogging are amazing to support your daily vlogging and shooting needs. The specialty of the vlogging cameras is that they are compact cameras that capture high-quality images effortlessly.

Vlogging is like a video version of blogging. So, you document your life in a series of video grabs. The intent behind is vlogging is very simple, and that’s the reason for its popularity.

Vlogging has exploded as a hobby and also as a means of personal expression. Many people like to vlog about their daily lives, behind the scenes of their venture, video content for social media, and many more.

Vlogging can be done through smartphones too. But the dedicated vlogging camera with mic allows creators to express their process in high-quality videos. A good vlogging camera is truly the only essential equipment you’ll need to take your vlogs to the next level.

Features to Consider When Buying a Camera for Vlogging


Looking for the best cameras for vlogging? Let’s go over some essential factors that you check off before you make your purchase!

Best Vlogging Cameras

Video Camera Resolution

The camera video resolution is not as important as you might think. However, as a rule of thumb, look for decent resolution cameras in 1080p, which is Full HD. Although 4K video is a popular resolution for blogging, 1080p is usually more than enough.

If you’re a beginner, then getting a 1080p resolution would be more than sufficient. You can even make do with the 720p video resolution, but that’s only if your budget is tight.

Battery Life

Vlogging usually takes more than a few hours. It’s a given that your vlogging camera with a mic has to have decent battery life.

After all, you wouldn’t want your camera to die down while you’re in the middle of a recording session. The best cameras for vlogging will support you throughout the experience. Look for cameras that have interchangeable batteries or ones that operate while charging.

In-Built Microphone Quality

Many people would rather put up a low-quality video with a great-quality sound than great quality video and poor sound. The best vlogging camera for beginners should have a decent quality microphone input. This is why you choose a vlogging camera with a mic so that you don’t have to depend on extra equipment like a microphone. Most compact cameras will not have this feature, so look for affordable microphone options to go with these.

Size of Camera

The size of the camera is a huge deal-breaker for vloggers. While most vloggers prefer the compact size, they compromise in the resolution or fixed lens. You should choose the best vlogging camera that is comfortable for your type of vlogging. The size of the camera is directly proportional to the size of pixel sensors that will collect the light.

Autofocus for Video

If you’re buying a camera for vlogging, this feature is a must! Most vloggers have personal vlogs, so they don’t have anyone to adjust the focus while recording. To manually adjust the focus while vlogging is also tedious. With an effective autofocus feature, you’ll be sure to be in focus for all your vlogs.

Low Light Performance

The best cameras for vlogging need to offer exceptional low light performance. The reason for this is because vloggers don’t have control over lighting when on the go. Low light performance is relative to the ISO setting on your camera. ISO setting makes your camera more sensitive to light. Higher the ISO, the more light your vlogging camera will capture.

Vlogging Camera with Flip Screen

It’s near impossible to shoot vlogs without a flip screen. Flip out screens help you see what the camera is capturing while recording. A cheap vlogging camera with a flip screen will help you layout your videos better and get the exposure right.

Lens Selection

If you go for a compact, pocket-sized camera, then you’ll have to settle with the lens that comes with the camera. Do you want to use a different lens on your camera for vlogging? Settle for mirrorless or DSLR cameras that come with interchangeable lenses.

Field of View

The field of view is basically how wide the video camera sees. A narrow field of view is great for close up vlogs. If your vlogs are going to have action scenes, then its best to settle for a wide-angle field of a view vlogging camera.

Benefits of Buying a Vlogging Camera

Many people prefer using their smartphones for vlogging. On the other hand, many find using the smartphone as very restrictive. A smartphone is like all devices in one. You can easily make do with smartphone vlogging. If you want to take your vlogs to the professional level, then consider investing in a decent vlogging camera. It will be your most prized possession for creating stunning videos. Let’s delve into other benefits of buying a vlogging camera.

Dedicated Camera

Having a dedicated camera for your vlogging will keep it separate from your other stuff. When you use your smartphone for vlogging, you might drain your battery easily. Invest in a cheap vlogging camera with a flip screen so that you can do vlogging without worrying about battery life.

Expandable Storage

he best vlogging camera 2020 comes with expandable storage. You can exploit the memory as much as you want by clicking some gorgeous pictures at the highest resolution. You don’t have to worry about the memory, just switch the SD cards, and you can continue capturing your lives best moments without any interruptions.

High-quality Video Output

Newer smartphone models have amazing camera quality. But the 4K quality and Full HD video resolution shooting are still better when captured on a vlogging camera. With a good vlogging camera by your side, you can click stunning pictures that are of the highest quality. Whether it is YouTube streaming or simple vlogging, the quality of your videos will help you make the right impression on the audience!

Unleash Your Creativity

Another benefit of investing in a vlogging camera is to experiment. The controls and picture settings on a smartphone are inadequate. If you want to push your creative boundaries, get a vlogging camera. The image controls and interchangeable lens will give you more control over how you record your vlogs and other video content.

Best Vlogging Cameras Under $300

To shoot the impeccable vlogs, there are many expensive and budget-friendly cameras. Why should you spend so much money when you can get the best options under $300?
Sale
Nikon Coolpix B500 Digital Camera (Black)
Nikon Coolpix B500 Digital Camera (Black)
16 megapixel 1/2.3 inches BSI CMOS sensor; Nikkor f/3.0 6.5 millimeter ED lens; 22.5 900 millimeter (35 millimeter equivalent)
Panasonic Lumix ZS50 Camera, Black
Panasonic Lumix ZS50 Camera, Black
12. 1 Megapixel sensor delivers high resolution photos with fewer image artifacts; Enhanced low light sensitivity for improved sharpness even without a flash
Sony Alpha A200K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens
Sony Alpha A200K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens
10-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 18 x 24-inch prints; Kit includes 18-70mm lens
GoPro Hero5 Session (Renewed)
GoPro Hero5 Session (Renewed)
Stunning 4K video and 10MP photos in single, burst and time lapse modes.; Durable by design, Hero5 Session is waterproof to 33ft (10M) without a housing.
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Black)
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Black)
16 megapixels Live MOS Image sensor; Fast AF with Touch screen shooting; TruePic VI Image Processor

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Let’s see some of the best cameras for vlogging under $300.

The Nikon Coolpix B500 is the best vlogging camera if you’re on a budget. It will capture a full HD video with a huge optical zoom of 40x. The optical focus will not deter even if you have zoomed into long subjects.

The video quality of the Nikon Coolpix B500 is simply unbeatable. It has a video resolution of 1080p at 30 fps rate. The Nikon Coolpix B500 is a cheap vlogging camera with a flip screen. The screen flips upwards and downwards so that you can click amazing selfie vlogs.

This camera also comes with a special BSI CMOS 16MP image sensor. Photography and videography in low light conditions become even more effortless and amazing. The compact and durable design of the Nikon Coolpix B500 is one of the reasons why it’s the best vlogging camera under $300.

The camera comes with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology so you can share the photos and videos to any compatible device.

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • 40x optical zoom to focus on faraway subjects
  • Large flip screen for vlogging
  • Stunning videos with 1080p quality
  • Good battery life
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • No manual controls
  • The panorama picture is poor resolution
  • Continuous use will lead to heating issues

If your vlogging style is travel-related or if you’re always on the go, then Panasonic Lumix ZS50 will be perfect. The super-compact design is pocket-friendly and makes for the best vlogging experience when you’re on the go.

Panasonic Lumix ZS50 has a smooth and sleek design, which makes it easy to hold for extended periods. This camera provides full HD resolution at a steady fps rate with no issues. The camera has an excellent fps rate of 60 at 1080p, which makes it stand out from other vlogging cameras.

You can easily zoom into long objects with a powerful 30x optical zoom. The Panasonic Lumix ZS50 also has a CMOS image sensor with the image processor. So, you can take stunning photos and videos of the highest quality!

The Panasonic Lumix ZS50 is nicknamed as a travel video camera because of the wide functionalities packed in a small size. Not only is this camera easy to hold but also it is affordable for anyone on a tight budget.

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Built-in eye viewfinder
  • Sleek and compact design
  • Affordable price
  • The ideal camera for outdoor vlogs

Cons:

  • No flip screen

The lightweight and compact shape will make your vlogging experience effortless. Click amazing videos with the 28x optical zoom and additional 56x dynamic zoom. Long-range photography and videography will be no-hassle when you have a Nikon Coolpix L340 on your side.

The video quality is HD resolution, which is quite frankly not that impressive. However, it is an average quality when compared to vlogging cameras with 4K video quality.

The Nikon Coolpix L340 is the best vlogging camera for beginners who want all the features at an affordable price. It also comes with built-in wireless connections so you can seamlessly share your footage across devices.

This stands out as one of the best cameras for vlogging because of its low light photography. The 20.2 MP CCD image sensor makes sure that you have sharp and bright videos and pictures, even in low-light situations.

Another special feature that Nikon Coolpix L340 has is optical image stabilization. This feature helps you take steady videos and pictures when you are moving.

Pros:

  • 28x Optical zoom for travel vlogs
  • External microphone jack
  • 20.2 MP CCD image sensor
  • Best vlogging camera for outdoor vlogs

Cons:

  • The highest resolution is 720p

If the convenience of use is your top priority, then the Canon PowerShot SX620 is perfect for you! Not only is this easy to use, but it also comes packed with features that will boost your productivity.

The Canon PowerShot SX620 is one of the best cameras for vlogging owing to its full HD resolution at a steady fps rate. You’ll be able to capture some of the most stunning views in high-quality 1080p resolution.

The Canon PowerShot SX620 has an optical zoom of 25x so that you can focus on the small objects. This camera is perfect for shooting close-ups and wide-angle videos.

The Canon PowerShot SX620 is a great camera for indoor vlogging. It is because of the 20.2 MP CMOS image sensor with a DIGIC 4+ image sensor that delivers sharp and bright images in low-light conditions.

Additionally, the camera also has connectivity options so you can share your videos and photos across all compatible devices.

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Full HD 1080p video quality
  • Huge 3 inch LCD screen
  • Updated image sensor for an enhanced experience
  • The ideal camera for indoor vlogs
  • Budget-friendly and compact design

Cons:

  • Optical stabilization not present
  • No Flip Screen
  • Heating issues

The Canon VIXIA HF R800 is a camcorder but can be handy for vlogging as well. Whether it is selfie videos or outdoor vlogs, this camera has proven its worth.

The sturdy and robust construction makes this camera durable. Your vlogging experience will drastically change for the better when you switch to the Canon VIXIA HF R800 camcorder!

One of the most amazing features of this camera is the 57x optical zoom. You’ll have no problem clicking stunning videos and pictures of faraway objects. Also, you will get depth in the small object photography.

The Canon VIXIA HF R800 camcorder has an HD 3.28 MP CMOS sensor, which is beneficial for low-light videography. You will be clicking pictures and shooting videos in full HD resolution with a steady fps rate.

You’ll be amazed at how convenient the Canon VIXIA HF R800 is to hold. If you make selfie vlogs or outdoor vlogs, you can rest assured this camera will not be a burden on your wrists!

Pros:

  • Full HD 1080p video quality
  • Lightweight and easy to hold
  • Cheap vlogging camera with flip screen
  • Super great 57x optical zoom
  • Perfect for both indoor and outdoor vlogs

Cons:

  • Battery life is very short
  • Photo quality not very impressive

Similar to the Canon VIXIA HF R800, this Panasonic Full HD camcorder is a good contender in the budget-friendly vlogging camera section. The Panasonic Full HD camcorder is the best option you can choose to make spectacular videos and gorgeous photos.

The sleek and smooth design of the camcorder is a coveted feature that makes it easy to handle. You’ll make amazing vlogs without any pixel shatters, glare, or glitches in full HD resolution and steady fps rate.

Another impressive feature of the Panasonic Full HD camcorder, which is far superior to any other vlogging camera, is optical zoom. This camcorder comes with the ultimate 50x-90x optical zoom to shoot clear footage of long-distance subjects.

Additionally, the Panasonic Full HD camcorder is a cheap vlogging camera with a flip screen that you can customize for better selfie vlogs. The camcorder is also packed with wireless connectivity options so you can seamlessly transfer videos and photos to your smartphone and laptop.

Pros:

  • Flip-screen vlogging camera
  • Wireless connectivity options
  • Full HD 1080p video quality

Cons:

  • BSI image sensor is not that great in low-light situations

If you want the flexibility of an interchangeable lens, then this budget-friendly Sony Alpha 200K DSLR is perfect for you. This feature-rich vlogging camera is the best vlogging camera for beginners just starting.

You’ll have an amazing time shooting splendid videos with the 10.2 megapixels. The super steady shot image stabilization of 18-70 mm f/3.5-5.6 lens produces HD pictures that are unmatched with other best cameras for vlogging.

The Sony Alpha 200K DSLR has a 2.7 inch LCD screen monitor so you can see how well you captured images and videos. The design is ergonomic and not easily damaged because it’s encased in a full metal body.

Another amazing feature of the Sony Alpha 200K DSLR is the fast Bionz image processor chip. It offers 3200 ISO maximum sensitivity to improve the sharpness of your images along with stable functioning.

The Sony Alpha 200K DSLR also comes with a decent battery life, which shows the remaining battery percentage so you can time your shots. This is the best DSLR camera under $300.

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Full metal body
  • Gorgeous and stable image quality
  • Lightweight
  • Easy-grip
  • Long battery life

Cons:

  • Flash coverage is poor at wide-angle
  • Slow startup and shut-down time

If you’re someone who doesn’t want to compromise on the video quality, then the GoPro Hero 5 is the vlogging camera for you. With amazing video and audio qualities, the GoPro Hero 5 takes amazing 4K video with the signature wide-angle field of view.

Like all GoPros, this vlogging camera also sports the digital image stabilization, which will keep your photos and videos clear. The Hero 5 automatically uploads all the footage to the cloud so you can start editing and posting it right away.

It also has an intuitive voice command that helps you shoot hands-free footage just by speaking to your camera. This might seem like a party trick, but it is amazing if you’re solo vlogging.

If you need your camera to accompany you for underwater adventures, then the GoPro Hero 5 will be a hassle-free option. Waterproof up to 33 feet deep, you can experiment with underwater shots.

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Pocket-sized professional camera
  • Perfect for any situation
  • Great Battery life
  • Wide-angle field of view
  • Waterproof up to 33 feet deep

Cons:

  • Fixed lens, no zoom
  • Controls aren’t very responsive

Mirrorless cameras give you the flexibility to use interchangeable lenses. The Olympus E-PL5 is pocket-sized and packs a lot of quality.

The picture quality that this camera produces is remarkable. It is great for people looking to experiment with interchangeable lenses. The 16.1 MP lens has fast shooting performance, which makes for the best vlogging camera for beginners.

The Olympus E-PL5 has a complete metal body that gives it a robust build. It also has a control ringside next to the capturing button to adjust the aperture and shutter speed. If you want your vlogging camera to have fast and responsive shooting, then you’ll love the Olympus E-PL5.

The Olympus E-PL5 vlogging camera can shoot up to 8 frames per second, which is very impressive. It makes this camera stand out in the affordable mid-range market. The Olympus E-PL5 is a masterpiece and truly one of a kind at such an affordable price!

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Complete metal body
  • Lightweight
  • Color variants available
  • Touch screen LCD
  • Fast shutter speed of 1/4000 seconds
  • Cheap vlogging camera with flip screen

Cons:

  • The menu options are confusing
  • No built-in flash
  • LCD brightness might go down in direct sunlight

The maker of the best action cameras, GoPro, has amazing vlogging cameras that are perfect for any occasion. The GoPro Hero 6 comes with 12 megapixels 4K HD touch screen. This is the most powerful budget-friendly action camera loved by travelers across the globe!

Rain, hail, or sunshine, your GoPro Hero6 will not falter! The plastic frame on the screen makes the camera lightweight. The construction of the GoPro Hero 6 is sturdy and waterproof. It will last you in all shooting conditions.

The GoPro Hero 6 can record videos of 4K resolution at 60 fps and 1080p resolution at 240 fps. This vlogging camera has a GP1 processor, which makes image stabilization possible while shooting 4K videos. The screen size is a compact 2 inches, which is considered to be the smallest touch-based user interface.

This GoPro Hero 6 is a perfect buddy for all your travel expeditions. It has the best image and video quality so that you can shoot magnificent footage.

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • 4K videos
  • Cloud Storage
  • Easy to use
  • HD images
  • Supports slow-motion video recording

Cons:

  • It takes patience to operate
  • Fixed lens

Vlogging Accessories you Need to Invest in

Now that you have decided which vlogging camera is perfect for you, it is time to accessorize! You might find some cameras coming with accessories in bundles, but a majority of them are often poor quality and useless.

It is recommended that you buy the camera just as it is and look for better accessories. Let’s see some of the essential vlogging accessories that you should try out.

SD Card

A large capacity SD card will store all your video footage safely. An SD card will be the essential thing after the camera, especially if your videos are going to be long. Consider keeping two SD cards handy in case you exceed the limit on one while recording/traveling.

Tripod

Purchasing a tripod is a no-brainer. A tripod will make sure your videos are stable. Tripods are also a great accessory if you’ll be filming your vlogs alone.

You can find all types and sizes of tripods that will suit your type of videography and vlogging!

Camera Case and Strap

If you want our camera to have a long life, then you should carefully handle your vlogging camera. Protect your camera from dust and other environmental factors by storing it safely in a camera case.

While using a tripod, make sure you double-check it with a camera strap so that you don’t lose your camera or accidentally drop it. You can also choose a waterproof case that will make your camera perfect for all conditions.

Backdrop

Are you going to shoot vlogs at home? It’s better if you invest in good backdrops so that your messy room doesn’t distract the audience from you. Just by adding a simple backdrop, you will transform your room into a studio for recording your vlogs!

Also, having a plain background will make your vlogs seem professional. You can easily customize the backdrop to switch it up for different types of vlogs!

External Microphone

The sound quality of the in-built microphone might not be the best. If you want to enhance the sound quality of your videos, then consider hooking up an external microphone. It will reduce the background noise so you can have high-quality audio for your videos.

Lighting

Lighting is very important, especially if your vlogging camera is not equipped to handle low-light conditions well. If you want to look good in every frame, make sure you buy additional lighting.

This is especially true if you’re going to have close-up shots. Having good lighting is essential to the whole experience of the vlog.

FAQS

How to reduce shaking while Vlogging?

Instead of holding the camera as it is, mount it on a tripod. This will give you the ease of handling the camera, and also you can experiment with different angles without putting too much strain on your hand.

Many cameras come with in-built image stabilization that will take care of the shakiness. Alternatively, you can also look for a high frame rate that will deliver a smooth video.

Should I use the camera mic for vlogging?

The internal microphones on the best vlogging camera are sufficient for close up vlogs. However, if sound quality is something you don’t want to compromise on, then attaching an external microphone is the best option.

As a rule of thumb, check the reviews of the microphone in the camera or test it out before you purchase a vlogging camera. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to try working with the built-in microphone before shelling out money for the external microphone.

How do I weatherproof my vlogging camera and equipment?

While many vlogging cameras like the GoPro have a sturdy background, you should consider shielding the camera from excessive damage. To do so, you can easily cover the vlogging camera, and an external microphone is connected by a plastic sheet.

This will keep your microphone dry and efficient for use during rainy days and also water splash rides.

What cameras do YouTubers use for vlogging?

If you’re a beginner, then here are some things you should look out for in the best camera for YouTube vlogging:

  •         Powerful Microphone
  •         Live Streaming options
  •         Good autofocus
  •         Flip Screen
  •         Built-in image stabilization

Here are some types of cameras that you can select based on your vlogging style:

  •         Mirrorless vlogging camera
  •         4K camera
  •         Full-frame camera
  •         Compact vlogging camera
  •         DSLR

Let’s look at a few of the best cameras for YouTube vlogging. Here are our top picks:

  • Sony ZV-1
  • Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III
  • Panasonic G100
  • Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
  • Canon EOS M6 Mark II
  • Panasonic G95 / G90
  • GoPro Hero 8 Black
  • Sony A6660
  • Fujifilm X-T200
  • DJI Osmo Pocket
  • Canon EOS 90D

Final verdict

Are you looking to excite your audience with your journey? Choose from the best cameras for vlogging to help you document it!

A good camera is a fundamental thing that you require to start as a successful vlogger. Choose from the range of feature-packed affordable products that are perfect for beginners.

If you’re an expert looking for affordable vlogging camera options, you can enjoy the additional features in the best DSLR for streaming!

Customize your vlogging bundle with vital accessories to take your vlogging game to the next level. Make this guide your holy grail for all your vlogging camera doubts!

Dwayne Graves Online is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program which is designed to provide an aid for the websites in earning an advertisement fees by means of advertising and linking to Amazon and products.

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