The camera you carry with you is the best for vlogging. But there are lots of solutions available if you want to step up your vlogging game. You can see a great range of options in our list below, ranging from high-end mirrorless hybrids to gimbal cameras that are affordable. Each of them has undergone rigorous testing, and each one scores highly for vlogging cameras in its own unique manner.
After hours of testing, we believe the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 will be the best camera for the majority of vloggers in 2024. It uses a 3-axis stabilizing gimbal to shoot fluid 4K content and is actually affordable. Its auto-tracking intelligence makes solo vlogging effortless, and when combined with the DJI Mic 2, the audio quality is excellent. We use it to film TechRadar’s TikTok video because it’s that fantastic.
However, we are aware that it might not be the best option for your intended vlog.
Regardless of your budget, our round-up aims to make it simple for you to discover the perfect vlogging camera. In order to do this, our knowledgeable staff has thoroughly evaluated a wide variety of vlogging choices in real-world scenarios. We evaluate overall video quality as well as aspects like autofocus, handling, image stabilization, and connectivity. Each entry has our frank evaluation broken down by niche, along with our opinion of which one best suits it.
QUICK LIST
Last update on 2024-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Top 5 BEST Vlogging Cameras Of 2024
1.DJI Pocket 3
- Capture Stunning Footage – This vlogging camera features a 1-inch CMOS sensor and records in 4K resolution at an impressive 120fps. Capture breathtaking night views and sunsets with enhanced clarity.
- Effortlessly Frame Your Shots – Get the ideal composition with Osmo Pocket 3’s expansive 2-inch touch screen that rotates for both horizontal and vertical shooting.
- Ultra-Steady Footage – Say goodbye to shaky videos. Osmo Pocket 3’s advanced 3-axis mechanical stabilization delivers superb stability. Enjoy smooth footage while dancing, chasing pets, or vlogging.
Last update on 2024-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
A fantastic little vlogging camera, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 far outperforms the already highly regarded DJI Pocket 2. Thanks to a three-axis gimbal, you can capture fluid footage in a size factor that is pocket-friendly and match the video quality of larger devices like the Sony ZV-1. Its status as the greatest vlogging camera for the majority of people is cemented by new features including a 1-inch sensor and a 2-inch back LCD. The former increases the Pocket 3’s resolution and low-light performance, but more importantly, it strengthens its support for multi-aspect video.
When it comes to vlogging, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 will provide you with a significant improvement over a smartphone. Support for 4K 120p is available (great for footage), while its pocket-friendly size and gimbal make it much more convenient than an interchangeable lens camera. It supports remote mics too, although the onboard mic is more than enough for decent audio quality. Thanks to a rotating touchscreen rear display, switching between a vertical aspect ratio or traditional horizontal 16:9 is seamless – and the resulting footage is fantastic, as you’re not losing out on any detail.
Beautiful slow-motion scenes and incredible video quality are produced by the wonderful DJI Osmo Pocket 3. In addition to enabling on-board recording in this posture, the new 1-inch sensor improves image quality in low light. The timelapse and motion lapse functions add even more usefulness to the camera. You won’t be dissatisfied with what the Pocket 3 allows you to create, provided you can afford it.
You would expect the Osmo Pocket 3 to be a pretty good piece of equipment when you’re spending more money. The gadget has exquisite design and meticulous craftsmanship, with each part fitting harmoniously with the whole. The Osmo tag was removed from the second version of this action camera, but it is now back.
For the Pocket line, the arrival of a new 1-inch sensor is revolutionary. Better photo and video quality is the outcome, along with significantly enhanced low-light performance and higher-resolution slow-motion video capabilities. Though it’s not very obvious, there is still some noise in the darker regions.
The new portrait option is the most noticeable improvement to the video resolution category. Direct recording is possible in this orientation all the way up to 3K, something that will be a dream come true for TikTok content creators.
Pros
- 1-inch sensor
- Bigger and better screen
Cons
- Usability of touchscreen needs improvement
2.Sony ZV-1
- 20.1MP stacked back illuminated 1″ Exmor RS CMOS sensor w/ DRAM. Large aperture 24-70mm1 F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens
- Fast Hybrid Autofocus and Real Time Eye Autofocus and Real-time Autofocus tracking
- Side flip-out 3.0″ LCD screen that also tilts up and down for easier to compose selfie shots
Last update on 2024-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
We believe the Sony ZV-1 perfectly captures what most people seek in a small vlogging camera—it is both powerful and compact. Excellent versatility is provided by its completely articulating touchscreen, hotshoe, and mic port in addition to its compact packaging. During field testing, we discovered that its Eye AF and real-time tracking were the finest in class, and its 1-inch sensor could capture clear, detailed 4K/30p video. The ZV-1 gives an incredible level of depth for a small camera, and our review also revealed that it has useful features including an integrated ND filter and S-Log2 settings for color grading enthusiasts.
Although the more recent Sony ZV-1F is less expensive and has a wider 20mm lens and a smartphone-style UI, its outdated contrast autofocus mechanism and coldshoe mount prevent it from oust the original from the top spot. Nor can the Sony ZV-1 II, the pricier successor to the ZV-1 that features a wider lens but no in-body stabilization. These are great cameras, but their feature sets don’t merit the extra cost – especially when Sony is continuing the sell the the ZV-1.
The greatest small vlogging camera available is the Sony ZV-1. Its brilliant lens, excellent autofocus, and unique design elements, such as the side-flipping screen, combine to make it a formidable pocket video choice with few competitors. Although the ZV-1 has a few well-known user foibles and its image stabilization may be a little disappointing to those looking for extremely smooth walking footage, it is still the greatest video all-arounder in its weight class.
The most potent pocket vlogging camera available at the moment is the Sony ZV-1. It combines the best video features of the Sony RX100 series—such as its industry-best focusing system—with design improvements to provide the perfect camera for YouTube videos that can be shot on location or at home.
Its primary strength is the marriage of Sony’s Real-time tracking and Real-time Eye AF technologies with a brilliant 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens. These, along with the ZV-1’s bigger 1-inch sensor than those found in modern smartphones, make it simple to record high-quality vlogs with steady focus and pleasant background blur.
Pros
- Class-leading autofocus
- Bright lens for lovely video bokeh
Cons
- Average video stabilization
3.Panasonic Lumix GH6
- Higher Resolution and Bit Rates than Ever Before: 25MP Sensor and Venus Engine with 100MP Hand-Held High Resolution Shot; 5.7K 60p, 4K 120p 10-bit video and all recording modes are no time limit
- Incredible Image Quality and Versatility: Internal recording in Apple ProRes 422 HQ and 422 to deliver high image quality at low compression; Pre-installed V-Log/V-Gamut and plus13-stops of dynamic range with Dynamic Range Boost
- Unbelievably Stable, Even in Low Light: Powerful 5-axis Dual I.S. 2 provides up to 7.5-stops of correction; Full-HD High frame rate video at 300fps (12.5x) slow motion
Last update on 2024-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
One of our favorite cameras for vloggers was Panasonic’s GH5 II, which offered a ton of creative options in a small package. We discovered that the GH6 surpasses it in nearly every aspect during our review. With a more precise 25.2MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, it records 5.7K video at 60 frames per second and has access to a vast array of codecs, frame rates, and resolutions, including more 10-bit modes. In addition to a wide range of connectivity possibilities, forced-fan cooling allows for endless recording times. Its sole shortcoming is that the GH5 Mark II can stream live video.
It is a little bit bigger than the GH5 Mark II, but it is still rather portable. Strong construction is enhanced with well-known controls and new tally lights on the front and rear. The 3-inch touchscreen at the back flips.bends and tilts, and a front-facing second video record button facilitates vloggers’ initial footage capture. Phase detection autofocus is still absent, however contrast-based autofocus seems to work better than it did with the GH5 Mark II. Thanks to an algorithmic update, we also discovered that the GH6 has excellent stabilization, making it one of the finest cameras for naturally reducing motion blur during walking.
The GH Lumix series may have drawn greater attention from the mirrorless filmmaking community, but the Panasonic Lumix GH6 proves that the Micro Four Thirds sensor format is still relevant. The GH6 is a compact, light camera that packs a powerful punch in terms of video capabilities and image quality. It also has exceptional handling and image stabilization, and it may have the best contrast-based autofocus of any Panasonic camera.
Given the current popularity of full-frame cameras among filmmakers, one may wonder if a Micro Four Thirds camera such as the GH6 is still a desirable option. We can see why it’s appealing: Micro Four Thirds cameras are typically more compact, lighter, and less expensive than full-frame sensors, even if full-frame sensors may perform better in low light, make it easier to obtain a shallow depth of field in images, and give a larger dynamic range. Additionally, it is simpler and more effective to stabilize because the sensor is smaller.
All of the aforementioned is true with the GH6, which is a tool that will satisfy all but the pickiest mirrorless filmmakers thanks to its well-thought-out design, excellent handling, and abundance of video possibilities. It’s not a coward when it comes to In terms of still photography, too, it appears to have significantly improved over the GH5 II’s contrast-based AF performance, although is still not as good as other hybrid systems from Panasonic’s competitors. Minor details like the dual tally lights and record buttons also seem to have an impact.
Pros
- Huge range of video options
- Unlimited recording times
Cons
- Autofocus still lags behind the best
4.Fujifilm X-S20
- 26.1 megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 5
- Up to 7 stops of Internal Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
- 6.2K/30P, 4K/60P 4:2:2 10bit internal recording
Last update on 2024-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
With additions that make it seem like a more approachable choice for inexperienced content producers, the Fujifilm X-S20 inherits all the qualities that made the X-S10 one of our favorite vlogging cameras. The X-S20 takes after the X-S10’s well-balanced chassis, which makes it fit extremely pleasantly in the hand. Additionally, our initial testing revealed that the top plate’s streamlined dials make it simpler to operate this fairly sophisticated shooting equipment. It also has the same 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor as the X-S10 and X-T4, which is a high-performing sensor as we have already determined from our testing.
Offering 6K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording, which is almost overkill, the X-S20 improves things even more. Additionally, enhanced in-body image stabilization performed admirably in tests. This, together with a larger battery inside, makes for a fantastic mirrorless all-arounder, in our opinion. For many novices, its price increase will be a deterrent, but the absence of weather proofing is a bigger letdown. The X-S20 is a more alluring option for vloggers due to features like a special Vlog mode that provides nifty creative settings at the touch of a button. The previous X-S10 is still available for a reduced price.
The Fujifilm X-S20 boasts a multitude of auto shooting modes, such as a dedicated vlogging mode, automatic scene detection, and enhanced subject tracking, which streamline stills photography and video content creation. Additionally, it has 6K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording, upping the ante in video quality. In addition to everything that made the X-S10 such a fantastic all-arounder, there’s also the larger battery. Unfortunately, these improvements have resulted in a significant price increase over that camera, which makes it difficult to recommend the X-S20 when the earlier model is still very good.
As Fujifilm’s mid-range mirrorless camera, the X-S20 inherits the mantle from the X-S10. The X-S20 is a camera that is easy to use for anyone who is even slightly accustomed with using one, and it also has capabilities that will satisfy more experienced users.
Similar in capabilities to the Fujifilm X-S10, the new camera is an excellent all-arounder; yet, with its new features, the X-S20 seems more geared toward entry-level consumers. While the Auto photography mode has been enhanced to make shooting images even easier, with improved automatic scene detection and subject tracking focusing, there is a dedicated Vlogging option to make content creation even simpler.
The 26MP crop-sensor from the X-S10 is still present, but the video quality has significantly improved with 6K / 30p 4:2:2.10-bit internal recording. Additionally, you have the option of “open gate” video recording, which allows you to access the entire 3:2 picture area of the sensor for a little bit of extra headroom, releasing you from the constraints of the 16:9 aspect ratio.
Pros
- Super-impressive video features
- Excellent handling for beginners
Cons
- Pricey
5.Sony ZV-E1
- Full-frame 12.1MP Exmor R sensor, optimized for 4K, sensitivity and speed
- 10-bit 4:2:2 recording with direct pixel readout, Long GOP or All Intra formats
- Create memorable imagery with ease with Cinematic Vlog Setting
Last update on 2024-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
A decent vlogging camera should be small and simple to use, and the Sony ZV-E1 checks both of these criteria. We found it to be the best option for solo vlogging because it is the lightest and smallest full-frame camera with picture stabilization. The ZV-E10’s smaller APS-C sensor makes it even more portable, but the video quality isn’t as good. With only one card slot and no cooling vents, it’s not ideal for prolonged use. Additionally, we discovered that when using the touchscreen outside, it can be challenging to see details. However, we continue to believe that the ZV-E1 is the best full-frame option for 4K vlogging if you’re a content creator shooting alone.
Because of a full-frame sensor, it can record clear 4K 60p video in any lighting situation, according to our tests.taken from the esteemed A7S III. Its in-body image stabilization also left us thrilled; it generated incredibly fluid handheld footage that nearly eliminated the need for a gimbal. Modern AI intelligence also leaves very little to be fixed after the fact: We believe that auto-focusing effectively tracks objects throughout the picture, which is really beneficial when you’re filming by yourself.
The most powerful “vlogging” camera on the market, the compact Sony ZV-E1 is overkill for most content makers but will probably show up in more professional video productions as well because of its excellent in-body image stabilization and focusing, as well as its clear 4K video image quality in any lighting. It also has an easy-to-use control interface, AI intelligence that simplifies tasks for small teams, and hints at future developments for cameras.
The Sony ZV-E1 is a full-frame camera focused on video that combines the ease of use of Sony’s ZV family of cameras, which are ideal for vlogging and content creators, with a dash of Sony cine camera grunt and the highest quality 4K video available for consumers. Consequently, even if it’s a bit too much for most people, it’s poised to be the greatest vlogging camera available.
The Sony ZV-E1 is another evidence that artificial intelligence is changing the way our cameras function, as it also has a few more tricks up its sleeve. Among the AI-powered features integrated is Auto Framing, which creates the illusion that the camera is being managed by a human by cropping into the entire image and then intelligently tracking your subject as they move within the full image area. incredibly intelligent items.
It is possible to record both the full image area and the cropped Auto Framing image simultaneously with an Atomos Ninja V external display attached, if you don’t mind. This will give you two files that appear to be from two cameras on set.
Pros
- Cheapest way to get the Sony A7S III sensor
Cons
- Single SD card slot restricts video capabilities
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST VLOGGING CAMERA
The greatest vlogging cameras come in many sizes and designs, ranging from mirrorless units to high-end webcams. What and how you want to shoot will determine what features you require.
For instance, if you’re a lone filmmaker, you should definitely get a camera with an articulating touchscreen because it will make framing shots much simpler. In addition, you’ll require an external microphone input if you plan to talk in front of the camera for a significant portion of your material in order to record high-quality audio for your viewers. Additionally, your subject will maintain focus even if they move within the frame if you have dependable face-tracking autofocus.
Many vloggers enjoy talking and walking simultaneously. If you wear things like this, you should consider a camera with in-body image stabilization. This will help to smooth out any shaky motion caused by your footsteps and make footage much more watchable. Some cameras go a step further with an integrated gimbal which counteracts motion on several axes to stay level, like the DJI Pocket 2.
These days, nearly all of the greatest vlogging cameras come equipped with 4K resolution as standard. However, it’s crucial to consider more than just resolution. You can capture beautiful slow-motion video, for example, by using high frame rates of 120 frames per second or more. Additionally, 10-bit color depth will offer you more freedom in the editing room if post-processing is a part of your workflow.
What kind of camera do vloggers use?
Vloggers utilize a variety of cameras, as you can see from the above purchase advice, depending on their individual demands.
Mirrorless models are preferred by many vloggers due to their performance, versatility, and image quality. The finest mirrorless vlogging cameras come with somewhat portable packages that include high-resolution sensors, in-body image stabilization for smoother footage, and the ability to swap lenses to suit different shooting situations. Additionally, ports for connecting external equipment like microphones, headphones, and hot-shoe lights are more frequently found on mirrorless cameras.
Nevertheless, some vloggers would rather put portability first. Totally compact cameras, such as the Insta360 Go 2, forego complete creative control in favor of rapid, user-friendly accessibility while recording spontaneous footage. Small cameras, such as the Sony ZV-1, are able torepresent a good middle ground for a lot of vloggers, offering solid image quality and manual control options, yet still in a form factor that can comfortably slip into a pocket.