The best cameras for vlogging, whatever your budget

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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 that the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the best camera for most vloggers in 2024. It’s genuinely small, uses a 3-axis stabilizing gimbal to shoot smooth 4K content, and has auto-tracking smarts that make it easy to vlog solo. It also produces excellent audio when paired with the DJI Mic 2, which is why we use it to record TechRadar’s TikTok content. However, we understand that it might not be the best option for you if you intend to 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.

THE QUICK LIST

If you don’t have much time, you can quickly access the top vlogging cameras by using the summary provided below. Once you’ve determined which one best suits your requirements and price range, click on the links below each listing to get our detailed explanations.

• BEST OVERALL: Panasonic Lumix GH6
• BEST AI TOOLS: Sony ZV-E1
• BEST PREMIUM COMPACT: Sony ZV-1
• BEST ENTHUSIAST: Panasonic Lumix S5 II
• BEST ENTHUSIAST: Sony ZV-E1

The best vlogging cameras in 2024

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 We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best.

Complete descriptions of each of the top Vlogging cameras on our list may be found below. We have thoroughly tested each one, so you can be certain that our suggestions are reliable.

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1. Panasonic Lumix GH6

The best YouTube camera for most people

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds

Resolution: 25.2MP

Effective focal length: N/A

Viewfinder: EVF, 5.68 million dots

Monitor: 3.0-inch articulating touchscreen, 1.84 million dots

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Max movie resolution: 5.7K 60p

Size, weight: 138.4×100.3×99.6mm, 823g

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In addition to being a great 4K camera, Panasonic’s GH5 Mark II also allows you to live-stream your content directly to YouTube. While the GH6 does not support streaming, it gains nearly all other specifications. Its 25.2MP Micro Four Thirds sensor allows it to capture 5.7K video at 30 frames per second. Its 10-bit video options are overkill for casual YouTubers, but they offer a ton of flexibility for those who enjoy color grading in post. ProRes and H.265 are fortunately supported by YouTube and the GH6. Along from adding support for 4K/120p over HDMI, the V2.3 firmware upgrade improved its external recording capabilities to include 12-bit Blackmagic RAW.

Although it is a little bigger than the GH5 Mark II, the GH6 is still a reasonably small camera to use when shooting YouTube videos outside of a studio. In addition to offering limitless recording times, forced-fan cooling is useful if you want to take advantage of YouTube’s 12-hour limits for verified accounts. Throughout our testing, we valued its sturdy, well-known construction as well as a few practical features absent from other Lumix models: a record button on the front, tally lights on both the front and back, and a tilting free-angle touchscreen. The performance of stabilization has also been improved by an algorithmic enhancement. If you can live without the Lumix S5 II’s phase-detection autofocus (see below), the GH6 is a great little camera for YouTubers on the go.

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2. Sony ZV-E1

The best Vlogging camera with AI shooting tools

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor size: Full-frame

Resolution: 12.1MP

Lens: Sony E mount

Viewfinder: None

Monitor: 3in vari-angle touchscreen, 1,036K dots

Maximum continuous shooting speed: 10fps

Movies: 4K/120p (limited to 4K/60p until firmware update)

User level: Intermediate

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

The Sony ZV-E1 ought to be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a small, user-friendly YouTube camera. While the ZV-E10 is more portable than the ZV-E1, the ZV-E1 is the lightest and smallest full-frame camera with image stabilization, making it the best option for producing high-quality YouTube videos while on the go. The ZV-E1 recorded clear 4K 30p footage in a variety of shooting conditions for our review. Impressively smooth footage was produced by its in-body image stabilization, which is perfect for run-and-gun YouTubers who wish to shoot handheld without the need for a gimbal.

Using AI intelligence, the ZV-E1 makes life easier for independent content producers: With Auto Framing, you can dependably follow subjects throughout a scene, saving you time in post-editing. Because it has only one card slot and no cooling vents, the ZV-E1 isn’t the best YouTube camera for heavy users. Additionally, testing the touchscreen while shooting outside was a little challenging. However, the ZV-E1 is a great option for 4K filming for independent filmmakers looking for a full-frame gear that is smart and simple to use.

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3. Sony ZV-1

The best premium compact for Vlogging

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Compact

Sensor size: 1-inch

Resolution: 20.1MP

Effective focal length: 24-70mm

Viewfinder: None

Monitor: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 0.921 million dots

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Max movie resolution: 4K 30p

Size, weight: 105.5 x 60.0 x 43.5mm, 294g

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In a small design, the Sony ZV-1 provides almost everything that a traveling YouTuber could possibly need. With a brilliant lens and a big 1-inch sensor size, Sony’s class-leading Real-time tracking and Real-time Eye AF algorithms keep you in focus as you move around the frame. They also produce lovely background bokeh, which is uncommon on pocket-sized cameras, and clear, sharp images in most lighting circumstances. Of course, it’s not perfect; we thought the touchscreen controls were a little restrictive, and Sony continues to use the outdated microUSB port rather of the more adaptable USB-C port. Additionally, video stabilization is not the finest.

That being said, our review was filled with well-considered details. The video record button is larger than on standard compacts, the hotshoe can hold an extra microphone or LED light without obstructing the side-flipping touchscreen, and an integrated ND filter lets you capture smooth action shots in brighter light. It even has a function called “Product Showcase” that is targeted at YouTubers who post reviews. The ZV-E10 is a definite upgrade for vloggers, while the ZV-1F is a more straightforward grab-and-go choice. However, the Sony ZV-E1 is the finest premium compact for YouTubers if you’re looking for the best combination of cost, functionality, and portability.

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4. Panasonic Lumix S5 II

The best camera for Youtube filmmakers

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor size: Full Frame

Resolution: 24.2MP

Effective focal length: N/A

Viewfinder: EVF, 3.69 million dots

Monitor: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1.84 million dots

Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5GHz, USB-C

Max movie resolution: 6K 30p

Size, weight: 134.3×102.3×90.1mm, 740g

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

A full-frame camera is not necessary for many YouTubers. Nonetheless, we heartily recommend the Panasonic S5 II if you wish to record YouTube videos with a larger sensor. Even though it is lighter than the Panasonic GH6, it feels substantial in the hand. In testing, we also discovered that it was easy to operate, thanks to a clear vari-angle touchscreen. Although the lack of a tally light will bother some, phase detection focusing for video is a long overdue and welcome addition. We really value the flexibility in speed and sensitivity settings, as they enable seamless focus changes.

According to our review, the Panasonic S5 II is a great video camera. It creates superb 6K/30p videos for YouTube that capture a broad dynamic range and vibrant colors. Thankfully, 6K records utilizing the entire sensor, allowing you to crop footage for various purposes inside your movies. Its ability to stabilize images well also allows it to be used for portable YouTube content. A restricted 1.5x crop is included with 4K/60p, while features like wireless IP streaming are reserved for the more costly Lumix S5 IIX. Nevertheless, the Lumix S5 II is a compelling hybrid package that we recommend for YouTubers.

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5. Fujifilm X-S20

The best YouTube camera for enthusiasts

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor size: APS-C

Resolution: 26.1MP

Effective focal length: N/A

Viewfinder: 0.39-inch, 2.36m-dot EVF

Monitor: 3.0-inch, 1.84m-dot vari-angle touchscreen

Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Max movie resolution: 6.2K 30p

Size, weight: 127.7 x 85.1 x 65.4mm, 491g

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

A user-friendly improvement from the Fujifilm X-S10, already one of the best YouTube cameras, the X-S20 has automatic functions that make vlogging easier. The X-S10 and X-T4 have already demonstrated the capabilities of the integrated 26.1MP sensor. However, the X-S20 improves upon this with inbuilt 6K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit recording. Although this will be more than the majority of YouTubers require, the X-S20 is an excellent option for enthusiasts who take their videography and sharing seriously. Improved in-body picture stabilization also performed well in handheld recording tests.

The Fujifilm X-S20 is an easy-to-use upgrade from the X-S10, which is already among the top YouTube cameras. Its automated features facilitate vlogging. The integrated 26.1MP sensor has previously been shown to be capable by the X-S10 and X-T4. Nevertheless, the X-S20 surpasses this with its integrated 6-K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit recording. For aficionados who take their filming and sharing seriously, the X-S20 is a great alternative, even though this will be more than most YouTubers need. In testing using handheld recording, improved in-body picture stabilization also functioned well.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST YOUTUBE CAMERA FOR YOU

The kind of videos you want to record will determine how different your needs are, but there are five key characteristics you should search for in a YouTube camera:

1. Articulating screen

When attempting to record yourself, an articulating screen—whether it folds out to the side or pivots up to the top—is invaluable. It assists you in getting the fundamentals correct so you can focus on other areas of your video by providing you with a real-time preview of the shot composition, exposure, and focus.

2. Good autofocus

While manual focus has its place in filmmaking, it’s usually best to get a camera with excellent video autofocus to keep things as easy and uncomplicated as possible. If you frequently move around in your videos, face and/or eye tracking can help because the focus will automatically adapt to make up for it.

3. Built-in stabilization

Video shot while hoofing it can be unsteady and difficult to see. Fortunately, image stabilization—either optical, electrical, or a combination of the two—is built into a number of contemporary cameras to automatically adjust for motion. To be clear, some people are far better at it than others. On the other hand, a gimbal, though bulkier, can stabilize almost any camera.

4. Audio options

The microphone that comes with a camera can record sound, however utilizing an additional microphone will significantly increase clarity and probably reduce undesirable background noise. Look for hot shoe mounting compatibility and microphone inputs while making purchases. Headphone sockets are another item you might want to think about since they let you keep an eye on the audio levels as you record.

5. Livestreaming options

Checking to determine if a potential camera supports YouTube livestreaming is a good idea for anyone looking to broadcast live, even while it might not be essential for those making films to post after recording and editing. These days, the technology is integrated into an increasing number of cameras; it’s no longer limited to webcams and smartphones.

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What camera do most YouTubers use?

A variety of cameras are used by YouTubers to record their material. The list above shows that a YouTuber’s best camera choice is frequently determined by the kind of material they are producing, whether it be in a studio or on location. But some well-known YouTube content makers have a particular fondness for specific cameras.

When YouTubers are questioned about the equipment they use, the Sony A7S III is frequently brought up. That should come as no surprise given that video producers have historically favored Sony’s Alpha series, and the A7S III offers mirrorless functionality, interchangeable lens versatility, and a full-frame sensor ideal for 4K video. Additionally, it is compatible with a wide range of filming formats, which makes it perfect for content producers who want to edit their videos before posting them online. That being said, most consumers will find the A7S III to be a pricey alternative due to its price tag (US$3,500 / £3,800 / AU$5,799).

Comparable circumstances apply to some of the other gear that YouTubers use. Cameras such as the Panasonic Lumix S1H and Canon EOS R5 are well-liked because to their extensive video features, but their high cost makes them unaffordable for nascent content producers.

Thankfully, a lot of YouTubers utilize less expensive cameras that nonetheless produce excellent video. The original Panasonic Lumix GH5, which is still in use by some YouTubers, is a more cheap model, but the Sony ZV-1 is quickly becoming a favorite among walk-and-talk YouTube vloggers.

Furthermore, a lot of YouTubers these days don’t even use a camera. The greatest camera phones enable you to capture crisp, brief videos that are perfect for YouTube Shorts or vlog-style material, thanks to the significant advancements in smartphone videography quality. You can make cinematic material using a smartphone and the best video editing software.

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What camera is best for YouTube beginners?

The extensive list above illustrates that the top YouTube cameras are available in a variety of forms and designs. Since the best camera for a novice will depend on how and what they intend to film for their YouTube channel, there isn’t one camera that fits all needs. To fully appreciate the advantages of each choice, it is worthwhile to read our entire guide.

That being said, novices can easily operate the best entry-level YouTube cameras. Many have touchscreen interfaces that are recognizable to owners of smartphones. Most are also easy to manage and offer automatic modes that let you shoot clean, vibrant video material with little or no post-production labor. You can also live-stream to YouTube with some of the greatest.

The Sony ZV-1, which is among the greatest cameras for YouTube novices in our opinion, is one such example. Anyone who has handled a point-and-shoot camera before will find comfort in its proportions as it is a high-end compact. With a sizable video record button and a handy side-flipping touchscreen, its UI is also user-friendly. Nevertheless, it’s also a flexible video tool because of its strong 1-inch sensor, superior autofocus, and convenient hotshoe mount on top. As a little older, more reasonably priced premium compact, we also heartily recommend the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III.

Something like the GoPro Hero 11 Black can shoot high-resolution video with class-leading stabilization if you want to make YouTube vlogs in challenging weather. It also has a useful front-facing display and a simplified touchscreen interface, all housed in a durable casing.

Alternatively, for beginners looking for a monocular that looks like nothing else, the DJI Pocket 2 is a good option. It adds subject-tracking intelligence to a stabilizing gimbal by mounting a sensor akin to a smartphone to it. The end product is a portable tool for creating YouTube videos while on the go.

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HOW WE TEST YOUTUBE CAMERAS

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Our studies primarily concentrate on the four key elements of a YouTube camera: audio options, autofocus, in-body image stabilization, and video quality.

We record a range of handheld settings, including the well-liked walk-and-talk format, at the camera’s maximum resolution and frame rate to evaluate the video quality and examine how it handles details, colors, skin tones, and rolling shutter. To evaluate how well the auto-exposure and white balance respond to changes in illumination, we also include high contrast situations.

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The YouTube camera’s Face and Eye tracking autofocus and the quality of its stabilization (both electronic and mechanical, if available) can also be tested during these tests.

We also test the built-in microphones in these settings, which are a frequently disregarded component of the YouTube equation for vloggers. We’ll also utilize the camera with an external lav microphone if it has one to compare the audio quality to the internal one.

A lot of the most recent YouTube cameras come equipped with extra features like articulating touchscreens, built-in ND filters, flat color profiles, and, in the case of Sony, a ‘product showcase’ feature that’s perfect for those who operate a home-based channel. We test every function to determine how well it performs in comparison to its nearest competitors, if available, and then summarize our findings based on our varied opinions about the build quality, design, video quality, audio quality, and features of the camera.