Best Camera for Vlogging in 2023 for All Budgets

Your search for the best vlogging camera ends today.

This is the ultimate guide to choosing a camera to vlog, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned YouTuber.

We’ve tested all the latest mirrorless vlogging cameras to help you choose the tip model for your content creation.

From short-form social media content to long-form daily vlogs, these cameras offer excellent video quality and all the features you need to film this year.

While you can definitely vlog on a smartphone, a camera designed for vlogging with a flip screen will make everything much easier.

Take a look at the list of criteria we used when selecting the best vlogging cameras of the year.

Then, dive deeper into the guide to learn more about how to make your decision.

(We’ve even included the cameras top YouTube vloggers are using right now.)

There’s no better time to start your vlogging journey than right now, so let’s get into the recommendations.

What is the Best Vlogging Camera in 2023?

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Image	Product	Features
	Sony ZV-E1BEST OVERALL	High Resolution Compact and Lightweight 4K Video Recording Full-Frame Image Sensor	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →
	Fujifilm X-S20BEST FOR TRAVEL	Manual Exposure Controls Portable High-Quality Images High Dynamic Range	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →
	Sony ZV-E10BEST FOR BUDGET	Hot Shoe Mounting Point APS-C Sized Sensor 4K Video Recording High Autofocus	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →
	Insta360 Go IIIBEST FOR BEGINNERS	Waterproof Dual Built-In Microphones Small and Portable Extremely Versatile	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →
	DJI Pocket 2BEST FOR BEGINNERS (CHEAP)	Compact and Portable Touchscreen Interface Modular Design 3-Axis Stabilisation	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →
	GoPro Hero 12 BlackBEST FOR ACTION	Built-In Microphone Waterproof Bluetooth Connectivity Hypersmooth Video Stabilisation	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →
	Panasonic GH6BEST FOR 4K VLOGGING	Unlimited Recording High-Resolution Built-In Cooling 5-Axis Stabilisation	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →
	Sony ZV-IIBEST FOR COMPACT VLOGGING	Large Sensor Touchscreen Interface Compact and Portable Built-In Microphone	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →
	Insta360 X3BEST FOR 360 VLOGGING	Compact and Portable Waterproof 360 Dual Mode Bluetooth Connectivity	Check Amazon Price → Check B&H Price →

 

Sony ZV-E1 | Best Sony Vlogging Camera Overall

Sony’s commitment to video-first full-frame cameras has led to the brand becoming synonymous with video content creation of all types.

Perhaps no camera exemplifies this reputation better than the Sony ZV-E1, an AI-powered beast that feels tailor-made for all manner of vloggers.

This full-frame camera is every vlogger’s dream, from its cinematic widescreen mode specifically for vlogging to the slow-motion capabilities of up to 240 frames per second.

Its capacity for aesthetically pleasing footage is enhanced thanks to the inclusion of S-Cinetone and S-Log 3 picture profiles for crisp cinematography.

 

Shooting with the ZV-E1 is a dream, with premium in-body image stabilisation for active vloggers complemented by its fully articulated screen.

Its autofocus is also outstanding, with AI-powered processing to ensure pin-sharp focus exactly where it’s needed when tracking subjects in the frame.

Everything comes together through the 12MP sensor, which is also used on the significantly more expensive Sony A7S III and produces simply stunning results.

Combining high-quality production values with easy-to-learn functionality, the Sony ZV-E1 is an outstanding full-frame vlogging camera few rivals can match.

Fujifilm X-S20 | Best Travel Vlogging Camera

Just as Sony has established a strong reputation for reliable cameras geared toward videography, so too has Fujifilm set out a solid stall in this field.

Their line of mirrorless cameras has become synonymous with versatile aesthetics thanks to their range of film simulation modes to achieve various looks.

The Fujifilm X-S20 brings these film simulation modes on board, along with impressive IBIS and a responsive subject recognition autofocus system.

These features make it optimal for video content creators, with a flip-out screen further increasing the range of shooting styles it can be used for.

Check out the video below which describes why this Fuji is such a great travel vlogging camera:

 

While it takes a little time to get accustomed to its full suite of videography tools, the small and compact size lends it to spontaneous vlogs on the go.

Thanks to its impressively long battery life, travel vloggers and other content creators who can’t always access a power point can get lots of footage on a single charge.

The Fujifilm X-S20 fulfills its remit in terms of delivering a camera with mainstream appeal, with enough features for more experienced vloggers to sink their teeth into.

Sony ZV-E10 | Best Budget Vlogging Camera

If you’re keen to enter the world of vlogging with Sony cameras but don’t have the budget for a full-frame model, the Sony ZV-E10 is a great budget alternative.

While you won’t get all the bells and whistles of something like the Sony ZV-E1, what it offers is a comprehensive range of videocentric tools that beginners can easily pick up.

It’s exceptionally compact and light enough to fit in a small bag, with surprisingly sharp audio recording for a camera in its budget range.

There’s also no recording limit, so it’s great for lengthy video recordings of events and podcasts, with great battery life to match the lack of recording limit.

 

Of course, at this price, there are some sacrifices to be expected, such as the lack of IBIS and autofocus that can lag from time to time.

On the other hand, the inclusion of a mic and headphone jack and a fully articulating rear screen are strong selling points for bare-bones vlogging.

Additional features, such as the USC-C tethering and additional audio ports, make the Sony ZV-E10 a dream to use in studio-based vlogging setups.

Overall, the Sony ZV-E10 is an excellent all-around beginner’s camera that brings a clear emphasis on simplifying video content creation and amateur filmmaking.

Insta360 Go 3 | Best Vlogging Camera for Beginners

Not all vloggers need the full range of modes and features available on traditional cameras, with many opting to use an action camera for their content creation.

The Insta360 Go series has been a common choice for outdoor and sporting vloggers who need something to capture the action as and when it happens.

Marking the latest evolution in the line, the Insta360 Go 3 is a fun, inconspicuous camera that works in combination with the smart Action Pod for increased functionality.

Users can choose from a touchscreen or wireless control, with its magnetic mounting system making it great for positioning in unusual locations.

There’s also a flip-forward LCD touchscreen for selfie-style vlogging away from a desk that places the video directly within the action.

While the battery can’t be removed, and the Insta360’s image stabilisation isn’t as good as other action cameras, it captures the shooting style of its more expensive rivals.

It’s a great action camera for fast-paced vloggers who are looking for a discreet action camera but don’t have the budget to go all in on the latest GoPro model.

DJI Pocket 2 | Best Cheap Vlogging Camera for Beginners

Another great video camera for more adventurous vloggers is the DJI Pocket 2, which comes in a similarly diminutive package to the Insta360 Go 3.

DJI has built its brand around outdoor videography and vlogging, with the DJI Pocket 2 incorporating many of its trademark features.

It’s designed specifically for vloggers on the move, with superior object tracking and stabilization to keep footage lined up with any commentary.

 

The wide-angle lens, capturing video at the equivalent of 20mm, gives plenty of scope for cropping with vlog editing software.

It also comes with a crystal clear stereo microphone that doesn’t compromise on quality, which is particularly handy when keeping your gear as light as possible.

Go for the Creator Combo option, and you’ll get a useful tripod, holster, and Do-It-All handle for extra versatility on your next shoot.

All things considered, the DJI Pocket 2 is a versatile vlogging pocket camera with plenty of scope for recording video in the most challenging scenarios.

GoPro Hero 12 Black | Best Action Vlogging Camera

Don’t forget it’s often most convenient and simple to vlog in a GoPro.

GoPro cameras have become synonymous with action videography and shooting extreme sports from a dynamic and engaging point of view.

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is among their most popular models, thanks to its crisp and bright footage and raft of features for beginners and pros.

It’s a compact all-in-one vlogging system that brings stable footage to the table, with 10-bit log capture and time coding for in-depth editing.

Low-light performance issues aside, you can use this to capture great video with a variety of mounting options to help get the best angles.

 

Vloggers who are primarily focused on creating content for Instagram and TikTok can also take advantage of the ability to shoot vertical video footage.

With its user-friendly interface and features, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is also a great introduction to vlogging for beginners just starting out.

This intuitive design makes the GoPro Hero 12 highly recommended for content creators looking for the best action camera for high-octane scenarios.

Panasonic GH6 | Best 4K Vlogging Camera

Returning once again to another great camera from Panasonic that comes highly recommended for vlogging, with the Panasonic GH6.

Sporting an extensive selection of video shooting options and unlimited recording times, the Panasonic GH6  boasts impressive image quality.

It’s a camera that combines an ergonomic body design with a multi-angle tilt-and-swivel screen to help content creators capture video in many situations.

This great handling is bolstered with superior image stabilization, an effective contrast-based autofocus system, and accurate subject tracking.

 

The inclusion of an extensive selection of video options, such as Cinema 4K ProRes and full HD slow motion at 240fps, brings additional versatility for more advanced videography.

There’s also plenty of scope for making refined aesthetic decisions using the various picture profiles, allowing for post-production colour grading.

One of the most reliable cameras for vlogging with an approachable learning curve for developing new filmmaking techniques, the Panasonic GH6 is a solid all-rounder for vloggers.

Sony ZV-II | Best Compact Vlogging Camera

Another great camera for vlogging from Sony’s extensive range of models is the ZV-II, which packs a great combination of features in its compact body.

The Sony ZV-II features a wide-angle lens with digital zoom and can shoot 4K video at up to 30 frames per second with crisp and colorful results.

The inclusion of a USB connection and Bluetooth connectivity makes this a great compact camera for vloggers who like to live stream their content.

 

Download the Sony Creator app, and the potential for vlogging and other streaming content opens up even more, thanks to their regular software updates.

As well as producing impressive video, the Sony ZV-II is a capable camera for audio, recording dialogue and background sounds with its omnidirectional microphone.

All of this comes in a package that, while not quite pocket-sized, is certainly more compact than many similarly-prices vlogging camera alternatives.

Insta360 X3 | Best 360 Vlogging Camera

Another impressive camera for vlogging from Insta is another entry in the world of 360 videography, the Insta360 X3, which can be used handheld or mounted.

Featuring a significant upgrade to the screen and a plethora of powerful 360-degree editing options, it’s a vlogging camera with lots of creative potential.

With its slim and waterproof body design, it’s a camera that’s capable of producing footage few other vlogging cameras can hope to match.

At the same time, there’s a single-lens mode for shooting traditional action cam-style footage without the complex editing process that comes with 360 footage.

As fun to use in handheld mode as it is mounted on a helmet, the Insta360 X3 comes with powerful editing software to cut video before uploading to YouTube and elsewhere.

This makes it a great camera to use if you’re concerned about the full filmmaking workflow and want to keep things nice and streamlined.

If you’re a vlogger who wants a camera that combines endless shot options with powerful editing, the Insta360 X3 is well worth considering.

Other Notable Vlogging Cameras Reviewed

Canon Powershot G7X Mark III

The Canon Powershot G7X Mark III blends the retro design Fujifilm has become best known for with superb handling and vibrant imagery for various vlogging scenarios.

It’s intuitive to shoot with, thanks to the responsive touchscreen, while accurate face detection brings peace of mind when recording commentary.

The absence of a hotshoe for external mics and issues with overexposure and subpar autofocus are the main factors letting the Canon Powershot G7X Mark III down.

Canon Powershot V10

One of the most compact and unique point-and-shoot cameras on the market, the Canon Powershot V10 has been designed specifically for content creation.

Fitting snugly in one hand, it’s optimised for spur-of-the-moment vlogging and doubles as a useful plug-and-play webcam.

The dated tech that underlies this practical design means it misses out on a wholehearted recommendation, particularly in light of video advances in smartphones.

Canon EOS R60

With its full-frame sensor and in-body digital stabilization, the Canon EOS R60 is a fantastic interchangeable lens camera for dedicated vloggers.

It can shoot 4K video resolution up to 60p, with dual memory card slots and lots of all-around functionality for videography of all types, making it one of the best Canon flip screen cameras for vlogging.

Unfortunately, its Achilles Heel is a huge downside for vloggers, with the Canon EOS R60 notable for hitting its temperature limit during long recording sessions.

Nikon Z30

The Nikon Z30 is a mirrorless vlogging camera with lots of relevant features but with a few shortcomings that prevent it from gaining a solid recommendation.

It’s a pleasure to use, with a vari-angle touchscreen and a decent kit lens out of the box, making it ideal for beginner vloggers.

Sadly, it’s let down by the absence of a headphone jack and image stabilization you’ll find on the latest entry-level vlogging cameras.

Panasonic Lumix G100

Once touted as one of the best vlogging cameras on the market, the Panasonic Lumix G100 comes with plenty of video options.

Small in size with a range of great compatible lenses, it’s among the go-to cameras for travel vloggers looking for versatile compact cameras.

The older autofocus system and video crop when shooting in 4K means this otherwise great camera falls short of making it to this list.

How to Choose Your First Vlogging Camera

Choosing a vlogging camera can be an exciting but daunting task, especially if you’re just starting out.

Here’s a guide on how to select your first vlogging camera:

Determine Your Budget

When searching for the best vlogging camera, it’s vital to set a clear budget first. This narrows down choices and ensures you get the best value for your money.

Understand Your Content Type

The best vlogging cameras cater to the specific needs of different content types. For travel vlogs, a robust, compact, and weather-sealed vlogging camera is ideal, whereas beauty vloggers might prioritize high resolution and color accuracy.

Video Resolution

In the world of vlogging, video resolution plays a critical role. While Full HD (1080p) is standard, 4K or Ultra HD is gaining popularity. The best vlogging cameras with 4K provide sharper footage and post-production flexibility.

Image Stabilization

For steady and professional-looking videos, image stabilization is key. A vlogging camera with superior image stabilization ensures minimal shakiness, especially in hand-held scenarios.

Lens Versatility and Sensor Size

Depending on your vlogging style, a camera with interchangeable lenses or a broad zoom range can be beneficial. Also, the sensor size affects image quality. Cameras with larger sensors, like Full Frame, capture more light, producing better results, especially in low-light conditions.

Audio Quality and Ports

Sound is as crucial as video quality. The best vlogging cameras come equipped with good onboard mics or allow for external mic attachments. Having additional ports, like HDMI and microphone jacks, offers more versatility.

Frame Rates and Bit Rate

Consider frame rates if you’re interested in slow-motion footage. Higher frame rates like 60fps or 120fps are ideal. Also, a higher bit rate generally offers better video quality, capturing more detail, but results in larger file sizes.

Color Profiles and Log Modes

For vloggers keen on post-production, flat color profiles or log modes in a vlogging camera can be advantageous. They provide more flexibility during editing by retaining details in both highlights and shadows.

Autofocus System

A silent and efficient autofocus system is vital. Look for vlogging cameras with phase-detection or hybrid AF systems. Features like face and eye tracking can also be beneficial.

Flip Screen and User-Friendliness

A flip screen is indispensable for vloggers, ensuring you’re always in frame. Additionally, the best vlogging camera should have an intuitive interface, making the vlogging journey smoother for beginners.

Low Light Performance and HDR Video

Good low light performance is essential for indoor or evening shoots. Also, some of the best vlogging cameras now offer HDR video recording, which captures vibrant and lifelike footage when viewed on compatible screens.

Portability, Size, and Battery Life

The best vlogging cameras balance technical prowess with portability. A lightweight and compact vlogging camera is easier to carry around, and extended battery life ensures you don’t run out of power during crucial moments.

Future Upgrades

When choosing a vlogging camera, consider the potential for future upgrades. This ensures that as you advance in your vlogging journey, you can enhance your setup with new lenses or accessories without changing the entire system.

What Type of Camera is Best Filming Vlogs?

Let’s take a closer look at the different camera types and discuss their advantages and potential drawbacks for vlogging.

Compact Point and Shoots (e.g. Sony ZV-II)

Advantages:

• Portability: These are typically small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around.
• Ease of Use: With automatic settings, they’re user-friendly, especially for beginners.
• Decent Quality: Many modern point-and-shoots offer Full HD or even 4K video recording.

Drawbacks:

• Limited Customizability: They lack interchangeable lenses and often have limited manual controls.
• Smaller Sensors: This might affect low-light performance compared to cameras with larger sensors.

Mirrorless Cameras (e.g. Sony ZV-E10)

Advantages:

• Quality: They offer excellent image quality, often matching or surpassing DSLRs.
• Compactness: While offering the benefits of larger sensors and interchangeable lenses, they’re generally lighter and smaller than DSLRs.
• Versatility: With the ability to change lenses, you can customize your setup for various vlogging scenarios.

Drawbacks:

• Battery Life: Typically, mirrorless cameras have shorter battery life than DSLRs.
• Cost: Good quality mirrorless cameras and lenses can be pricey.

DSLRs (e.g. Canon EOS 70D)

Advantages:

• Proven Technology: DSLRs have been around for a while and offer robust performance.
• Battery Life: They generally have longer battery life compared to mirrorless cameras.
• Lens Selection: Many lenses are available for different DSLR mounts.

Drawbacks:

• Size and Weight: DSLRs are bulkier, which might not be ideal for vloggers on the move.
• Mirror Mechanism: The mirror can add to the mechanical complexity of the camera, making DSLRs inferior to mirrorless cameras for vlogging.

Action Cameras (e.g. GoPro Hero 12)

Advantages:

• Durability: Built for rugged use, they’re typically waterproof, dustproof, and shock-resistant.
• Compactness: Extremely portable due to their small size.
• Wide-Angle Footage: They often provide a wide field of view, suitable for adventure and travel vlogs.

Drawbacks:

• Fixed Lens: No zoom or depth-of-field control and usually wide-angle only.
• Smaller Sensor: Can struggle in low-light situations compared to bigger cameras.

360 Cameras (e.g. Insta360 X3)

Advantages:

• Immersive Footage: They capture everything around them, offering a unique perspective.
• Creativity: Allows for dynamic post-production reframing.

Drawbacks:

• Editing: The footage often requires more post-production work.
• Quality: The resolution is spread over the entire 360-degree field, so the actual quality can sometimes be lower than traditional cameras when viewing in standard formats.

Dedicated Vlogging Cameras (e.g., DJI Pocket 2)

Advantages:

• Purpose-Built: Designed with vloggers in mind, often featuring built-in stabilization, front-facing screens, and other vlogging-friendly features.
• Compactness: They’re typically very portable.
• Ease of Use: These cameras often prioritize user-friendly interfaces and quick operation.

Drawbacks:

• Less Versatile: While great for vlogging, they might not be as versatile as mirrorless or DSLR cameras for other photography or videography needs.
• Fixed Lenses: Most dedicated vlogging cameras don’t offer lens interchangeability.

My choice of best vlogging camera is always something mirrorless and preferably compact.

When engaging in cycling, running, or any ‘action’ sport, I prefer to use my GoPro or Insta360 action cameras due to the size advantage.

If I don’t have any other option, vlogging on an iPhone is better than nothing.

Which Camera do Most Professional Vloggers Use?

With so many different cameras available for vlogging, it can be tricky to know which one to invest your money in.

Fortunately, there are thousands of professional vloggers online who have extensive experience with a range of cameras.

The high volume of content they produce points to commendable reliability, while their footage offers insights into image quality.

One of the most common cameras used by YouTube vloggers is the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II, used by MrBeast, Liza Koshy, and PewDiePie.

Its reasonable price, ability to shoot in 4K video resolution, and light build for location shooting make it one of the more popular video cameras for vloggers.

Professional vloggers also use more expensive cameras for their in-studio footage where weight isn’t an issue and quality is paramount.

So, what camera do YouTubers use?

For MrBeast, the camera of choice is the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, among the best digital cameras in its class, capable of stunning 4K video.

PewDiePie’s main pick for larger vlogging cameras is also from Canon’s stable, with the popular content creator opting for the XA11 camcorder.

YouTuber Emma Chamberlain combines her Canon EOS M50 Mark II with a Sony CX 405 Handycam to cover a range of shooting scenarios.

As you might expect from a tech YouTuber such as Marques Brownlee of MKBHD, there are also high-end cinema-quality cameras that vloggers use.

His camera of choice, the RED Monstro 8K, represents vlogging in luxury, although the video resolution is certainly overkill given most video platform limitations.

It’s a broad spread of cameras that vloggers mix and match to fit their shooting style and a good starting point for new vloggers looking for their first camera.