Being either professional or amateur vloggers means that you’re equipped with a topnotch camera for YouTube that’s the best platform for vlogging. However, if you are just on your way to becoming a global famous vlogger, this article is going to ease your search for the ideal camera to get YouTube.
How to Pick the Best Camera for YouTube
Everybody knows that choosing the cream of this crop is a tough undertaking. Every time you believe you have found the best of this lot there appears a new thing that outshines everything you’ve seen before. And this procedure might appear to be endless.
But if you know exactly what to check before the purchase and what features the finest YouTube camera has to have, its choice won’t be quite as exhausting and time-consuming. Below are some tips to bear in mind when deciding on a camera to get YouTube vlogging.
What are you going to capture?
To be able to decide which type of video resolution will be acceptable for your vlogging it is important to take into account the kind of videos you want to create. Sure, there is absolutely no camera with a hint”special for household vlogging” or something like that. However, if you know what you’re going to capture it’s easier to locate a suitable item.
Should you require a camera for indoor movies only, then a funding DSLR camera might be sufficient. At the same time, vloggers who capture videos mainly outdoors will not be satisfied with the identical camera. Good lighting is one of the crucial features they ought to look for and inexpensive cameras can’t offer it. Besides, outside vlogging can require an extremely portable camera especially if it’s about traveling or kids life.
Types of Cameras
If you’re searching for a YouTube camera you will discover different types of products. All of them have their own experts and therefore are more acceptable for certain situations.
DSLR Cameras
Everyone understands that Digital Single-Lens Reflex camera is very good for top-notch shots. This type of camera will be also a wonderful option for vlogging. Additionally, DSLR camera provides good low light performance and excellent image quality.
On the flip side, it is pricey, usually heavy and bulky. In any case, DSLR camera will require time to understand how it works. You can check our listing of the best DSLR camera.
Mirrorless Cameras
Contrary to DSLRs, these cameras are light what makes them more portable and convenient for outdoor vlogging. Mirrorless cameras also include interchangeable lenses and create accurate graphics.
Point and Shoot Camera
Want something really streamlined? Point and shoot cameras are the most suitable choice in such a circumstance. However, remember that they aren’t as strong as DSLRs or even mirrorless cameras.
Sports and Action cameras
This type of cameras is designed for an immersive perspective. Action cameras are often strapped to a body, so you can easily go scuba diving or paragliding with them. Furthermore, they are small and comfortable to carry. However, action cameras can’t boast of top-notch video quality like DSLRs.
Video Quality
Content isn’t the only thing that affects vlogging achievement. Whatever cool topic you’re capturing it will not bring you the best result if it’s of bad quality. So the first feature your YouTube camera should have is high video quality. OK, there is no doubt that excellent video quality is excellent but what’s really hidden behind those words? The top cameras have a significant sensor size and high resolution.
The latter one is especially essential for videos. Here are the main types of resolution a camera may include: HD, FHD and UHD. Let us take a look at the primary difference between them. HD cameras offer only 720p resolution.
In a word, that’s insufficient for high-quality videos. Such cameras can be utilized as a budget option but if you need something quite powerful then it’s far better to avoid them. Full HD resolution has become the most popular nowadays.
It’s a kind of happy medium on which you won’t spend a fortune but its final outcome will be rather decent. Consequently, if you require a budget camera for YouTube videos pay attention at items with FHD resolution. Still, the best camera you may choose for vlogging are the one with 4K resolution.
Bear in mind the Ultra HD cameras are quite expensive, but the video quality that they offer will blow your brain and will create your audience enthused about it.
Frame Rate
YouTube camera must also have a proper frame rate. An individual might believe the higher it is the better quality it can supply. Unfortunately, if you’re YouTube vlogger this rule does not work.
High frame rates are trendy, particularly for high-speed activities like marathons but if it’s a beauty vlog then 60 fps will probably be too much for this. The hottest frame rates for YouTube videos are 24fps and 30 fps.
Stabilization
Another vital factor to take into account before you acquire a camera is IS, aka image stabilization, as nobody wants to get a low-quality image spoiled by various blurs. Virtually all modern cameras include IS alternative. There are three sorts of it — digital, double optical stabilization. You can learn more about these here.
Display
There is not any doubt that a camera should be comfortable in usage. The display is one of these parts which are responsible for this characteristic. Make certain that it’s not hard to operate especially outdoors as not all the cameras offer clear picture in the direct sunlight.
Audio
If you need a camera for shooting, sound quality may not be of high importance. But everything is absolutely different with YouTube videos. Obviously, a bizarre piercing voice won’t make your video more popular.
All cameras are equipped with an integrated microphone. Your job is to be certain that its quality is large. Note that DSLRs have much better sounding than actions cameras. Anyway, you can always get an external mic for your camera to make it perfect for your vlogging.
WiFi
Sure, YouTube vlogging presupposes an access to the Internet. So, if you are among those fans who like sharing videos instantly once you’ve captured themthen the choice of Wi-Fi will be a terrific bonus for you personally.
Weather sealing
This attribute is essential for outside vloggers. If you’re a traveling vlogger who functions in the heavy rain afterward weather sealing is an integral part of your prospective YouTube camera. But if you go much farther and shoot videos about underwater life then start looking for a waterproof camera.
Size and Weight
The last but not least thing to take under account before your purchase is the dimensions of the camera and its weight. Remember that there are various sorts of cameras we’ve mentioned above, which vary in features and have their particular benefits.
10 Best YouTube Cameras
1. Canon G7 X Mark II
Good Point and Shoot Camera for Youtube
Canon G7 X Mark II is a point and shoots camera with outstanding image quality. It comes with a big 1.0-inch 20.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 7 image processor, which offers an excellent detection and tracking functions.
By the way, it supports JPEG in addition to RAW modes. Bear in mind this Canon camera does not offer 4K video recording but it offers Full HD video at 60 fps. Sure, it appears to be a great drawback especially in the event that you need a camera for creating movies, but there are some other options which could compensate for this drawback.
Its lightweight and compact design bring tons of customers who prefer pocket-sized cameras. In any case, there’s an integrated flash that guarantees excellent results in just about any light conditions. This camera also can boast of a quick 4.2x optical zoom.
Canon G7 X Mark II Specs
| Body type | Compact |
| Max resolution | 5472 x 3648 |
| Effective pixels | 20 megapixels |
| Sensor size | 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm) |
| Sensor type | BSI-CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 125-12800 (expandable to 25600) |
| Focal length (equiv.) | 24–100 mm |
| Max aperture | F1.8–2.8 |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,040,000 |
| Max shutter speed | 1/2000 sec |
| Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible) |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 319 g (0.70 lb / 11.25 oz) |
| Dimensions | 106 x 61 x 42 mm (4.17 x 2.4 x 1.65″) |
| GPS | None |
2. Canon EOS 80D
The Best DSLR Camera for Youtube Vlogging
Another fantastic camera from Canon to get YouTube is EOS 80D. It’s created with 24.2mp (APS-C) CMOS detector that is able to take high-grade shots as well as videos. In any case, this picture detector delivers refined individual pixels that are responsible for high ISO speeds. Note that Canon EOS 80D features ISO 16,000 for still photographs and ISO 12,800 for movies.
This DSLR camera includes Intelligent Viewfinder which shows AF points and manners and has a grid screen with a horizontal digital level. EOS 80D is actually very good at capturing fast-moving subjects since it is provided with the Dual Pixel CMOS AF that ensures that the high speed of monitoring from Live View.
Canon EOS 80D has a built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity that allows sharing photos instantly. Furthermore, using the camera Connect program you can shoot remotely from a distance even in Live View.
Canon EOS 80D Specs
| Body type | Mid-size SLR |
| Max resolution | 6000 x 4000 |
| Effective pixels | 24 megapixels |
| Sensor size | APS-C (22.5 x 15 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 100-16000 (expands to 25600) |
| Lens mount | Canon EF/EF-S |
| Focal length mult. | 1.6× |
| Articulated LCD | Fully articulated |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,040,000 |
| Max shutter speed | 1/8000 sec |
| Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I support) |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 730 g (1.61 lb / 25.75 oz) |
| Dimensions | 139 x 105 x 79 mm (5.47 x 4.13 x 3.11″) |
| GPS | None |
3. Sony RX100 VI
Best Compact Camera for YouTube Videos
This representative of fresh Sony creation has a range of impressive features due to that it stands out from the other contemporary cameras. And also the first one which makes Sony RX100 VI indeed exceptional is the world’s fastest hybrid AF system using the speed of around 0.03 sec.
Note that this AF system covers both contrast and phase choices. What exactly does that mean? You get an opportunity to catch every second of the life around you.
Except for quick AF system and great shooting rate of 24 fps Sony RX100 VI comes with extra zoom and hefty image stabilization which protects the picture sharpness and accuracy. This camera is considered as one of the very best for YouTube due to its 4K movie support and exceptional slow-motion mode. Even though it is not the simplest one to use it’s much more affordable than purchasing skilled gear.
Another bonus this Sony camera has is its tipping touch display. Such choices as Touch Focus and Touch Shutter make the shooting easier and more convenient. In any case, you can always change the monitor position in a sense you need it.
Sony RX100 VI Specs
| Body type | Compact |
| Max resolution | 5472 x 3648 |
| Effective pixels | 20 megapixels |
| Sensor size | 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm) |
| Sensor type | BSI-CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 125-12800 |
| Focal length (equiv.) | 24–200 mm |
| Max aperture | F2.8–4.5 |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,228,800 |
| Max shutter speed | 1/2000 sec |
| Format | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
| Storage types | SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 301 g (0.66 lb / 10.62 oz) |
| Dimensions | 102 x 58 x 43 mm (4.02 x 2.28 x 1.69″) |
| GPS | None |
4. GoPro HERO 7
Best Underwater Action Camera For YouTube
Moving to impress your subscribers with some underwater movies? Afterward, GoPro HERO7 is definitely worth your attention. It comes with a set of features which are essential for topnotch video recording and provides great shots too.
This underwater camera is designed with hyper smooth movie stabilization, so every shot or recording is smoothed and clear. There’s also an option of time warp video as well as 8x slow-motion video. GoPro HERO7 supports 4K movie in 60 fps and offers a choice of Live Streaming with which you can share your impressions and outcomes with other people.
It’s a durable camera which has a rugged waterproof body and can work at a thickness of up to 33ft (10m). GoPro HERO 7 has also got a touch screen and voice command what makes it an ideal camera for extreme experiences. In any case, it’s quite simple to use thanks to its intuitive menu.
GoPro HERO 7 Specs
| GoPro Hero 7 Black | GoPro Hero 7 Silver | 1080p/60fps |
| Max video resolution | 4K/60fps | 10-megapixel |
| Still photos | 12-megapixel (HDR) | 2x |
| Slo-mo speed | 8x | 10-metres |
| Waterproofing | 10-metres | Yes |
| Voice control | Yes | No |
| Removable battery | Yes | No |
| GP1 processor | Yes | QuikStories |
| Special features | Hyper smooth, TimeWarp, Livestreaming,
GPS, QuikStories |
GPS, QuikStories |
5. Panasonic Lumix G85
The Best Mirrorless YouTube Camera
Want a mirrorless camera to your YouTube station? Have a look at Panasonic Lumix G85. As this Panasonic camera comes with 5-axis double image stabilizer there’s a nice handshake correction. In addition, there is a fantastic shutter shock reduction provided using a brand new electromagnetic drive. As a result, the shock, as well as a noise caused by the diaphragm movement, is reduced.
Panasonic Lumix G85 is designed with built-in flash. Its entire body is weather-sealed, splash and dustproof. It is likewise well-rugged, therefore it may endure different challenges. Its ergonomic design makes Lumix G85 comfy to take even with a single hand what results in secure shots.
This camera is also a good alternative for shooting. There is a 16mp digital dwell MOS sensor without a low pass filter that delivers sharp and detailed pictures. But keep in mind that it shows quite poor low light performance. Panasonic Lumix G85 supports different file formats such as RAW.
Panasonic Lumix G85 Specs
| Body type | SLR-style mirrorless |
| Max resolution | 4592 x 3448 |
| Effective pixels | 16 megapixels |
| Sensor size | Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to ISO 100) |
| Lens mount | Micro Four Thirds |
| Focal length mult. | 2× |
| Articulated LCD | Fully articulated |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,040,000 |
| Max shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
| Format | MPEG-4, AVCHD |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC card |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 505 g (1.11 lb / 17.81 oz) |
| Dimensions | 128 x 89 x 74 mm (5.04 x 3.5 x 2.91″) |
| GPS | None |
6. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II
Best Affordable Camera for YouTube Videos
Olympus has also something to offer YouTube users. Its E-M10 Mark II model has a large OLED digital viewfinder with 2.36 million pixels to be certain you will see everything you need for a perfect shot. Such shooting speed allows you to use this camera for capturing fast-moving subjects with the sharpness and details.
Though E-M10 Mark II omits 4K recording capability, it gives adequate 1080p video recording at 60 fps. Anyway, you can choose between nice and superfine video quality as well as a record style (24, 25, 30, 50 or 60 fps). You can also record a video at 180 fps however to do this you’ll have to reduce the resolution to 480p.
This Olympus version has a strong construction and a nice retro look. The layout of the buttons is comfortable and easy to use. As a result of some compact design, this version is also an excellent solution for travelers. What is more, Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II has a reasonable price.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Specs
| Body type | SLR-style mirrorless |
| Max resolution | 4608 x 3456 |
| Effective pixels | 16 megapixels |
| Sensor size | Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 200 – 25600, expands to 100-25600 |
| Lens mount | Micro Four Thirds |
| Focal length mult. | 2× |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,040,000 |
| Max shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
| Format | H.264, Motion JPEG |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 390 g (0.86 lb / 13.76 oz) |
| Dimensions | 120 x 83 x 47 mm (4.72 x 3.27 x 1.85″) |
| GPS | None |
7. Nikon D3500
Best Camera for YouTube Under $500
Just starting your YouTube channel? Then we have something special for you. Nikon D3500 would be a fantastic starting point for any novice in the subject of photography or filmmaking. This camera offers a special in-camera guideline which will help you produce the first steps in taking top-notch videos and shots.
Therefore, what does it come with? Nikon D3500 has a 24.2mp APS-C image detector, EXPEED image processor and an optical viewfinder. There is also a 11-point autofocus system and continuous shooting at 5 fps. Its native ISO range covers ISO 100 to 25,600. Since it’s not a high-end model there is no option of 4K video recording. This camera offers just 1080p Complete HD mode.
Nikon D3500 is a great camera for traveling as it’s one of the lightest and smallest Nikon DSLR cameras. This camera is also equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Consequently, if you would like to share you pictures with friends you can do it immediately after taking shots, but remember that you want SnapBridge program for this.
Nikon D3500 Specs
| Body type | Compact SLR |
| Max resolution | 6000 x 4000 |
| Effective pixels | 24 megapixels |
| Sensor size | APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 100-25600 |
| Lens mount | Nikon F |
| Focal length mult. | 1.5× |
| Articulated LCD | Fixed |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 921,000 |
| Max shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
| Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 365 g (0.80 lb / 12.87 oz) |
| Dimensions | 124 x 97 x 70 mm (4.88 x 3.82 x 2.76″) |
| GPS | None |
8. Canon EOS 77D
Best Canon Camera Under $1000
Canon EOS 77D was created with HDR and time-lapse film options. Its optical viewfinder provides a fantastic control of what you are shooting while its own vari-angle touchscreen LCD guarantees easy and comfortable usage. You’ll also like its Movie Electronic IS that reduces image blur when recording videos. By the by, there are also options of NFC, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Canon EOS 77D Specs
- Introduced: 2/15/2017.
- Expected Replacement: ??
- Current Firmware: version 1.0.
- Sensor Size: 22.3×14.9mm, APS-C (1.6x full frame)
- Sensor Pixels: 24.2mp, 3.72 micron photosites.
- Sensor Manufacturer: Canon.
- Sensor Technology: CMOS, Bayer, AA filter, microlens, Dual Pixel.
- Imaging Processor: Digic 7.
9. Olympus TG-5
Excellent Waterproof Camera for YouTube Vlogging
If you happen to require a camera which will survive anything afterward Olympus TG-5 is one of the first ones to check out. It’s a durable build quality which includes not only weather but also another great attributes which allow this camera to operate in the blue waters of seas and cold snow.
Olympus TG-5 is watertight up to 50ft and freeze-proof around -10°C. What is more, this camera is not afraid of unexpected drops since it’s shockproof up to 7ft and crushproof to 220lbf. In a word, it can overcome any YouTube challenges. In addition to this, it has a very reasonable price which will not cause you to cry over a broken camera body after a failed experiment.
This camera guarantees smooth videos since it supports 4K recording. In any case, there’s image stabilization which reduces blurs due to handshaking. Olympus TG-5 is good at taking shots too. Though there’s just 12mp image sensor, its shooting speed reaches around 20 fps.
Olympus TG-5 specs
| Body type | Compact |
| Max resolution | 4000 x 3000 |
| Effective pixels | 12 megapixels |
| Sensor size | 1/2.3″ (6.17 x 4.55 mm) |
| Sensor type | BSI-CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 100-12800 |
| Focal length (equiv.) | 25–100 mm |
| Max aperture | F2–4.9 |
| Articulated LCD | Fixed |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 460,000 |
| Max shutter speed | 1/2000 sec |
| Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC card (UHS-I compatible) |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 250 g (0.55 lb / 8.82 oz) |
| Dimensions | 113 x 66 x 32 mm (4.45 x 2.6 x 1.26″) |
| GPS | Built-in |
10. Sony a7 III
Best Professional Camera for Youtube
Here is a different camera for YouTube to value your focus. Sony a7 III is a topnotch mirrorless camera which provides excellent video recording and shooting. This Sony camera has also got an interchangeable lens and a wide ISO assortment of around ISO 51,200, which may get even more expanded for stills (up to 50-204,800).
Its autofocus system is fast and upgraded. There’s also a shooting speed of 10 fps and also an alternative of face detection focusing.
Sony a7 III provides 4K video recording in addition to 5-axis image stabilization to smooth all the blurs. This model features weather sealing and such features as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity. Its articulating touch screen makes this camera easy and comfortable to use. Still, its main drawback is a high price.
Sony a7 III Specs
| Body type | SLR-style mirrorless |
| Max resolution | 6000 x 4000 |
| Effective pixels | 24 megapixels |
| Sensor size | Full frame (35.8 x 23.8 mm) |
| Sensor type | BSI-CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 100-51200 |
| Lens mount | Sony E |
| Focal length mult. | 1× |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 921,600 |
| Max shutter speed | 1/8000 sec |
| Format | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S, H.264 |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo |
| USB | USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 650 g (1.43 lb / 22.93 oz) |
| Dimensions | 127 x 96 x 74 mm (5 x 3.78 x 2.91″) |
| GPS | None |
Summary
Striving for good videos you’ll definitely look for the finest YouTube camera. To do so remember to check all of the standards mentioned above and select the most suitable item for your successful YouTube vlogging.
