Video content is more prevalent and important than ever in business, marketing, social media and more. Moreover, the quality expectations of the video content is higher than ever. This is especially true for vloggers on Youtube and other platforms. If you’re looking to up your quality for vlogging but you don’t want to overpay for features that you don’t need, then this is the article for you. Here’s an updated list of the best cameras for vlogging.
What do the best Vloggers Use?
One great thing about finding the best cameras for vlogging is that the best vloggers themselves often disclose the gear that they use. With a little bit of research, you can easily find the best match for your style based on what others are using. Here’s a list of some notable vloggers and their cameras of choice:
- Mark Weins – Food and Travel Youtuber with Over 7M Subscribers – Lumix GX8
- Casey Neistat – Youtuber with Over 12M Subscribers – Sony A7S III
- Lost LeBlanc – Travel Youtuber with over 1.8M Subs – Lumix GH4 (and others)
- Sawyer Hartman – Youtuber with over 1.8 Subs – Canon EOS M50 (and others)
So one possible way of shopping for the best camera for your vlogging experience is to identify the style that you’re looking for, find existing content creators with that style, and then research the cameras and gear that they use. Obviously this isn’t the only thing you should do and you shouldn’t follow blindly, but it’s a good starting point.
After that, we recommend considering the cameras below based on the following categories:
- Best Mirrorless Cameras for Vlogging
- Best Compact Cameras for Vlogging
- Best Webcam and Live Streaming Cameras
- Best Smartphone Cameras for Vlogging
We are not including any DSLRs in our list of best cameras for vlogging. In general, we believe that the best vlogging cameras are mirrorless and compact cameras, as they generally offer all the features you need for vlogging in smaller, more lightweight bodies than DSLR cameras.
What to Look for in a Vlogging Camera
Let’s first start with what features and specs to look for in your vlogging camera with a couple of tips for vlogging camera shopping.
- Match Your Intent – Perhaps the most important tip is to ensure that you’re getting the right vlogging camera for your needs. Size and portability might be your highest priority if you’re trekking around the globe. In contrast, overall quality might be your top priority if you’re in more controlled environments and your audience expects beautiful footage. Try your best to nail down the style and the uses of the camera prior to shopping.
- Level Up Over Time – If you’re just starting out, then you may not know the exact direction of your style and needs. As such, we always recommend sticking to the bare minimum for your needs, upgrading and adding as you need it. Moreover, camera technology changes and improves each year, so holding out for the big splurge is often a wise decision. For example, the new iPhone 14 offers massive improvements over the iPhone 13 and might be an even more viable vlogging option for most needs.
Mirrorless Cameras for Vlogging
The best cameras for vlogging are mirrorless cameras. These are the cameras that all of the major camera manufacturers are pouring their latest technology into and offer incredible features for a versatile set of needs.
Sony A6400or A6600: A Solid Base Model with High Resolution
Stable, fast, versatile, and compact, the Alpha a6400 from Sony is an APS-C-format mirrorless camera that has a ton of full-frame features. See our full review of the Sony A6600 here.
Camera Features and Specs
- Front-facing screen
- 4K video
Type: Mirrorless
Resolution: 24.2 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III: Best Lightweight with Ultra-Features
Packing a wealth of features and functions within an especially compact design, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera with an abundance of speed, precision, and versatility.
Camera Features and Specs
- 4K video at 30 FPS
- Incredible image stabilization
Type: Mirrorless
Resolution: 20.4 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Panasonic Lumix G100: Best for Stable Video with Enhanced Audio
A well-rounded bundle for the aspiring vlogger or content creator. The G100 is a high-quality camera that has an approachable button layout. It’s perfect for anyone, from vloggers to creatives who want great looking videos with no hassle and even people uninterested in the technicalities of capturing video will be able to get results!
Camera Features and Specs
- 4K video at 30 FPS
- Incredible image stabilization
Type: Mirrorless
Resolution: 20.3 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Fujifilm X-T200: Best Flip-Out Screen
This sleek and lightweight mirrorless camera features a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor for capturing high-resolution images and video. The Fujifilm X-T200 has versatile features and excellent build.
Camera Features and Specs
- Ergonomic design
- 4K video up-gradation
Type: Mirrorless
Resolution: 24.2 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Fujifilm X-T4: Best for vLoggers Need High-Quality Videos
Combining outstanding video capabilities and stills with improved workflow and functionality features. This compact mirrorless camera from Fuji brings you the best of both the photo and video worlds.
Camera Features and Specs
- Great video quality
- IBIS for video
Type: X-mount mirrorless range
Resolution: 26.1 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Canon EOS M50: Best for Affordability
Comprising a versatile feature-set to suit both stills and video applications, the EOS M50 Mirrorless Digital Camera leads the pack with UHD 4K video recording, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, and improved Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detection AF.
Camera Features and Specs
- Vari-angle touchscreen
- Incredible Dual Pixel Autofocus
Type: Mirrorless
Resolution: 24.1 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Panasonic Lumix S5
The Best Option for vLoggers Who Need Highly Customizable Videos
Well-rounded, lightweight, and sleek, the Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 combines impressive video and photo capabilities with a portable body design.
Camera Features and Specs
- Lightweight and compact
- Most versatile video capabilities
Type: Mirrorless
Resolution: 24.2 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5: Best All-Rounder
Upgraded, redesigned, and filled with features, this camera gives outstanding images and video for shooters who demand the best.
Camera Features and Specs
- Dust, freeze, and splash-proof body
- Sturdy all-weather build
- In-body stabilization
Type: Mirrorless
Resolution: 20.3 Megapixels
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Panasonic Lumix G90/G95: Best mid-range travel camera
Packed with the essentials needed to begin shooting, the Lumix DC-G95 from Panasonic is a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera also characterized by its sleek and portable design.
Camera Features and Specs
- Smart selfie mode
- Power zoom kit lens option
Type: Action
Resolution: 20.3 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Panasonic G100: The Best Option for Video with Dedicated Features
Camera Features and Specs
- Easily portable
- Video-focused feature set
Type: Mirrorless
Resolution: 20.3 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Compact Cameras for Vlogging
Compact cameras might also make your list of best cameras for vlogging. In particular, these cameras are lower in price point, smaller, and offer great video recording features. They will not perform nearly as well for any still photography, so they are not quite as versatile. You also don’t get the same variety of lens choices. However, these are great cameras if you have a specific set of needs and you value portability above all else.
Sony ZV-1: Best Compact Camera Option
The Sony ZV-1 is a purpose-built compact camera blending the proven imaging capabilities of the RX100-series platform with an updated physical design for more efficient content creation.
Camera Features and Specs
- 24-70mm lens
- Pocketable with exceptional autofocus
Type: Compact
Resolution: 20.1 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Olympus PEN E-PL9: Most Elegant Option For Fashion-Conscious vLoggers
This sleek and stylish MFT mirrorless camera is tiny but mighty with impressive imaging capabilities and a variety of in-camera creative controls.
Camera Features and Specs
- Highly compact and stylish design
- User friendly and intuitive
Type: CSC (Compact-shape camera)
Resolution: 16.1 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Canon EOS M6 Mark II: All About Versatility and Diversity
Camera Features and Specs
- Useful tilting touchscreen
- 4k video at 30 FPS
Type: CSC (Compact-shape camera)
Resolution: 32.5 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
DJI Osmo Pocket: Best Bang for the Buck
The DJI Osmo Pocket Gimbal is a lightweight gimbal stabilizer and 4K camera combination that is small enough to carry in your pocket wherever you go.
Camera Features and Specs
- weather-proofed and action-packed
- 4k video at 30 FPS with such a small size
Type: Compact
Resolution: 12 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III: The Best Option for Beginners
Built for the aspiring filmmaker, the G7 X Mark III offers multimedia fluency within a compact design.
Camera Features and Specs
- Can shoot vertically and live stream
- User-friendly functions
Type: Compact
Resolution: 20.1 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
GoPro Hero 9 Black: Best for ultra-high video quality with a front-facing camera
Adding a 23.6MP sensor and new key design and engineering features, GoPro upgrades its flagship action camera with more of everything!
Camera Features and Specs
- 5K video
- Extreme stabilization
Type: Action
Resolution: 12 Megapixel
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
DJI OM 4
It’s not actually a camera but still the Best YouTube rig because it can work with any smartphone and allows you to capture incredible videos.
Camera Features and Specs
- Dynamic zoom
- Gesture control
- Story mode
Type: Foldable stabilizer
Resolution: Depends upon the camera it holds
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Best Webcam and Live Streaming Cameras
While new software can now allow you to use your mirrorless cameras and DSLRs for as a webcam and for live streaming, you may prefer to have a smaller, more portable webcam for your vlogging needs. Here are the best cameras for vlogging if you’re just looking for webcam and livestreaming functionality.
Logitech StreamCam: Best PC webcam
The StreamCam lets you create 1080p videos as well as stream online with fluid movements by offering 60 fps when recording at HD 720p. The C922 comes with Personify that provides a background replacement feature, so you can customize your background while streaming
Camera Features and Specs
- 60 FPS stream
- Smart autofocus
- Full HD vertical video
Type: Plug and play
Resolution: 1080p 60 FPS
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Mevo Start: Best On-Location Live Streaming Option
The Mevo Start is an all-in-one camera designed to provide a very easy workflow for live streaming to popular RTMP platforms, including YouTube Live and Facebook Live.
Camera Features and Specs
- Built-in NDI HX
- Sharp audio to retain viewers
- Six hours of battery life
Type: pocket-sized live video recording
Resolution: 2.07 Megapixels or 1920 x 1080
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Best Smartphone Cameras for Vlogging
Apple iPhone 14 (13 or 12) : Best for Status-Conscious People
The new iPhone 14 Pro comes with 5G speed, the A14 Bionic, the fastest chip in a smartphone, and a Pro camera system that takes low-light photography to the next level.
Camera Features and Specs
- Triple-camera unit
- LiDAR scanner
Type: TrueDepth camera
Resolution: 12 Megapixel (both front and rear)
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G: Best for people who need tech features
From 5G network speeds to 8K videos, the Galaxy S20+ pushes forward what’s possible with smartphone technology.
Camera Features and Specs
- 8K video
- 5G future-proofing
Type: Five-camera setup
Resolution: 108 Megapixel (Front: 40MP)
Check Pricing & Availability: Adorama | B&H | Amazon
Must-Have Accessories for Vlogging
If you are an experienced vlogger then you must already know that only having the camera is sometimes not enough. Sometimes you need features that your camera doesn’t offer. The following list of accessories to consider after you’ve chosen your best cameras for vlogging.
- Lume Cube Panel Mini: A must-have a portable light
- Blue Yeti microphone: Best for your studio
- Rode VideoMicro: The best microphone for cameras
- Black Eye Pro Kit G4: Best lens kit for your phones
- Elgato HD60 S: Best game capture card
- Magewell Ultra Stream HDMI Encoder: Best encoder
We hope that this list will help you to find the best camera along with the accessories to level up your vlogs.
Get Connected!