In today’s world of social media, it is more beneficial to find a camera that can not only be great for photography, but also for creating social video content for apps like Instagram and TikTok. This article debates the best TikTok camera, so you can decide the perfect option for you.
About TikTok Content
TikTok has been around long enough now that almost everyone you know either has the app or has heard about it. The app has over 1.5 billion monthly users and is growing every day. When the app first started, you could only upload 15-second videos. Now, users are able to upload videos up to ten minutes long. The content has become increasingly elaborate and creative, and users are challenged with new trends all the time. But how can you start creating on the app yourself? What is the best TikTok camera to help you stand out from the rest?
How to Choose a TikTok Camera
There are a few factors to consider when choosing your camera.
Video Options
First off, the most important factor will be video resolution. You want to make sure you get a camera that can record at least 4k 30fps. Tiktok will compress your video on upload to ensure it fits their standards, which will lower the resolution. High resolution videos always perform well on the app so you don’t want to cut corners here. The frame rate isn’t super important as you likely won’t be slowing down footage all the time, but it is still something to consider.
Camera Sensor
You should also research the sensor of the camera. This isn’t hugely important as you will be mostly focused on video resolution. Although, you also want to make sure that your camera can shoot high-quality still photos. This is because Tiktoks can have cover photos, which will add to your pages overall look. You will want a camera with at least 12MP photos. Most cell phones can now also shoot at that resolution.
Audio Options
Most cameras will come with an audio output that you can attach a microphone to. This may not be necessary right away — as most cameras also have built-in speakers — but they aren’t nearly as nice as using an outside audio recorder. Even if you begin by using your phone, there are multiple recording devices that can connect to it.
Ease of Use
Lasty, how easy is it to use that camera? If you are just getting into creating TikToks, you may not be familiar with cameras. Therefore, it may be better to start out with a more simple and straightforward model. Once you start to get the feel of it and you think you’re ready for a camera you can really grow into, then look at upgrading to a more advanced camera.
Now, let’s check out the top TikTok cameras on the market.
Best Tiktok Cameras
Fujifilm X100VI
If you ask the TikTok community about the best camera for TikTok, they might choose the fan favorite Fujifilm X100V. As much as TikTokers fell in love with the X100V for its specs, there’s a new X100 edition in town: its successor, the Fujifilm X100VI.
Just like its predecessors, the X100VI has a compact body great for on-the-go shooting and filming. The newest addition to the X100 line showcases up to six-stop in-body image stabilization (IBIS), a 40-megapixel sensor, and 5th-generation imaging technology.
Moreover, the X100VI has built-in features such as four-stop internal neutral density (ND) filter, AI-trained autofocus, and 6.2K video. Perfect for creators who specialize in lifestyle, outdoor, and travel content.
Key Features:
- 40.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR BSI Sensor
- 1.4x and 2x Digital Teleconverter
- 6.2k 29.97p, 4K 59.94p, FHD 240p 10-Bit Video
Sony ZV-E1
The Sony ZV-E1 Camera is the world’s smallest and lightest full frame, interchangeable lens camera built specifically for content creators. It’s capable of shooting up to ISO 409,600 with minimal grain and class-leading dynamic range. With its Cinematic Vlog settings and AF features such as its Product Showcase button, it’s clear this camera was developed with vloggers in mind.
And if you’re a hybrid shooter, a physical switch for Still/Movie/S&Q allows you to instantly switch from one mode to another. With the ZV-E1, Sony has changed the game for professional vloggers and YouTube content creators.
Key Features:
- 12 MP full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO up to 409,600
- Full frame 4k with full pixel readout
Sony ZV-1F
The Sony ZV-1F is known for being an outstanding vlogging and social media camera. Its 4k 30p recording is perfect for creating TikTok videos, especially on the go. The 360 LCD screen also allows the user to see exactly what is going on while recording live. Being able to use the 20.1MP sensor also ensures you will have high quality image capability in case you want to capture a cover image for your TikTok video. The ZV-1F also gives you the option of rotating horizontal video in-camera so you can upload it straight to social media.
Key Features:
- UHD 4k 30p video
- 360 LCD screen
- 21MP sensor
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
If your idea of the best camera for TikTok is a gimbal, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 will be a valuable addition to your toolkit.
The Pocket 3 comes with a one-inch CMOS sensor and a two-inch rotatable screen. The one-inch sensor is an improvement from the previous Pocket 2, giving this tiny handheld camera a better capability in handling low light. Though small, the Pocket 3 has buttons on the sides of the two-inch screen, so you won’t have to worry about configuring menus.
Apart from its sensor and body, the Pocket 3 shows off a strong autofocus in Product Showcase mode. Additionally, this gimbal camera has next-level stabilization and Active Track 6.0, so it matches well with fast-moving subjects.
Key Features:
- 4K/120fps
- 10-Bit D-Log M & HLG
- Stereo recorder & DJI Mic 2 capability
Sony ZV-E10
Though there is no in-body image stabilization on the ZV-E10, the APS-C sensor makes this camera pretty amazing. You are able to utilize the Sony E-mount lineup, giving you versatility like never before. The camera has a good in-body microphone which comes with a windshield to crack down on any outside noise. This camera is essentially a larger version of the ZV-1F that can use more versatile lenses.
Key Features:
- Supreme autofocus
- Reliable internal mic
- 360 screen
Nikon Z 30
The Nikon Z 30 was created with content creators in mind. It captures 4k 30p video and even does 1080p at 120fps. It has a super fast and accurate auto-focusing system and the kit lens that it comes with is very versatile. The image quality is good but only if you’re planning on casually shooting. Otherwise, this camera is mostly built for video content creation. If you are looking for a simple to use, compact body that you will mostly be using for video creation, this is a great and affordable option.
Pros:
- Oversized grip
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Great kit lens
GoPro HERO12 Black
The GoPro HERO12 Black is a holy grail for filming TikTok videos that focus on action and nature. To help cater to all creators, the GoPro HERO 12 has two models: the Creator Edition model and the Standard model.
The best TikTok camera for GoPro enthusiasts would be the Creator Edition model, which has a Volta tripod and an extended battery life. Additionally, the Creator Edition is equipped with a better microphone than its predecessors and a windscreen. If you plan to hook up any accessories, this model has two shoe mounts ready for use.
With its improved stabilization, the GoPro Hero12 Black can be used as a drone camera, capable of capturing vibrant colors at any speed.
Key Features:
- Continuous recording up to 70 minutes at 5.3K60
- 8-bit, 10-bit, or Log encoding with GP-Log
- 27MP photos including SuperPhoto, HDR, and RAW
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
The Canon PowerShot is a simple-to-use powerhouse that would be perfect for any beginners wanting to start creating social media content. It doesn’t have a 360 LCD screen, but the tilt screen would still allow you to view yourself while recording. The 20.1MP sensor is legendary for creating amazing stills. The 4k clips are capped at ten minutes, but you shouldn’t need to record longer than that for TikTok.
Pros
- Live streaming
- 24-100mm lens
- 4k video
Fujifilm X-S10
The X-S10 is arguably one of the best mirrorless cameras on the market for this price range. If you are looking for something that is amazing for both photo and video, this camera is an absolute beast. The APS-C sensor is well-known for capturing incredible stills and the 4k video will be more than enough to record TikTok videos. I recommend this for those who would want to create more than just social media content, as this would offer you so much more.
Pros
- In-body IS
- 26.1MP APS-C sensor
- Reasonable price
TikTok Camera Frequently Asked Questions
Frame rate: Opt for 30fps during normal videos. On slow-mo or B-roll videos, however, go for 60fps or higher for maximum quality
Shutter speed: Set your shutter speed to double your frame rate. (Ex. 60 FPS = 1/120 shutter speed)
White balance: Refer to the Kelvin chart to know what number to set your white balance to.
Yes. Due to TikTok’s restrictions, 4K videos have to be compressed to 1080p. To make sure your viewers will see great quality videos from you, only upload videos in 1080p. Additionally, camera quality matters for viewers. Higher-quality videos are more likely to garner high engagement and view times.
Conclusion
This list is packed with some pretty incredible cameras. If you are ready to step beyond your smartphone and allow yourself more creative freedom and the chance to have manual control over this process, there is surely a camera for you on this list.
