Vlogging connects creators with fans like never before, but poor image quality and choppy audio can only get you so far. To build and captivate your audience — and keep them coming back — you need detail-rich footage and crisp audio that engages followers on a deeper level. This kind of footage makes viewers feel like they’re in the room or on a trip with you. And a high-quality and dedicated vlogging camera and accessories are perhaps the best way to get there. But high-quality doesn’t always mean high cost. We’ve compiled the best cameras for vlogging, and must-have accessories, with all budget and experience levels in mind.
You’re starting a YouTube channel, compiled content ideas, and are ready to start filming. Here’s the best equipment to help you get high-quality videos.
What to Look for in a Vlogging Camera [Buying Guide]
Vlogging has become incredibly popular especially with so many people taking up new hobbies. Social media apps like Twitch, Tik Tok, and YouTube have created a space for vloggers to call home. The type of vlogger you are will determine which camera you need. Here is a list of features to look for when deciding on your camera.
Battery Life
Depending on how the length of your videos, battery life is incredibly important. If you’re in a location where you can have an adapter plugged into your camera, then you’ll be able to vlog for hours without worry. If you plan on taking your camera on the go, you’ll need to make sure your battery can last or you may need to take extra batteries with you. When vlogging live, it’s always good to make sure your camera is using a compatible battery adapter so you don’t have to stop your stream.
Video Quality
Having a clear and crisp video is going to be one of the most important features to look for. These days, 4K video is a possibility and if you have the budget, you won’t look back! If you plan on vlogging live, most social media apps typically only support 1080p. For action shots and fast motion, you will want a camera with high frames per second (fps) to capture everything smoothly.
Portability
When vlogging on the go, you will definitely want to prioritize having a smaller camera to take with you. If you have a dedicated space in your home that never moves then the size and weight of your camera won’t be as important. Sometimes, its good to have the flexibility with your camera in case you want to vlog on the go.
Tilting Screen
Whether you’ve vlogging from your office, home, or outdoor adventure, you’ll need to preview your shots as you record. A camera with a tilting screen will allow you to view yourself as you record, helping you capture proper composition and footage.
Lens
You’ll definitely want to determine the area in which you will be showcasing. A wide-angle lens will show more of your space, and a telephoto lens will narrow the field of view to focus on more specific areas. Make sure that the camera you choose can zoom in and out enough for you.
Audio Connection
A YouTube video with poor sound isn’t going to get you many views. Choose a camera with a built-in microphone jack to ensure you can connect an external microphone and capture quality sound.
The Best Cameras for Vlogging:
Ready to get started? If you’re wondering “what is the best camera for vlogging?”, we have you covered. Check out our list of the best and most popular cameras for vlogging below:
- Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera
- Nikon Z fc Mirrorless Camera
- Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Digital Camera
- Nikon Z 30 DX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body
- Sony ZV-1 Compact 4K HD Camera with Vlogger Kit
- DJI Action 2 4K Ultra HD Power Combo Camera
- Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Mirrorless Camera
- Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 Mirrorless Camera
- Sony ZV-E10 Mirrorless Camera Body
- DJI Pocket 2 Gimbal Camera
- GoPro HERO10 Black
- Insta360 ONE X2 Pocket Camera
- Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 Mirrorless Camera
- Fujifilm X-S10 Mirrorless Camera
- Panasonic Lumix GH5 II Mirrorless Camera
- Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera
Photo by Adorama
Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera Body
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 back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor
- ISO up to 409,600
- Full frame 4k with full pixel readout and no pixel binning
- Cinematic vlog settings
- 5-axis in-body stabilization
- Ai based AF
- Product showcase setting
- Vari-angle LCD screen
Nikon Z fc Mirrorless Camera
This new mirrorless camera from Nikon includes a retro design but is loaded with modern imaging technology. The DX format camera has a 20.9MP CMOS sensor and the EXPEED 6 processing engine. For the vlogger and video content creator, it includes 4K UHD video, a flip-out vari-angle screen, a build-in microphone, and a microphone jack.
Eye autofocus for humans and animals in both still and video allow for precise tracking, while the live streaming features allow you to turn the camera into a powerful webcam — making it one of the new best cameras for vlogging.
Key Features:
- 4K UHD
- 20.9 MP DX CMOS sensor
- Flip out Vari-angle LCD
- Full time AF with eye detection
- Built-in stereo microphone
- External microphone jack
- Live stream and web conference compatible
Sony Alpha a6400 24.2MP Mirrorless Digital Camera
With a 180-degree tiltable LCD screen and inputs for professional-quality microphones, the Sony Alpha a6400 mirrorless camera is perfect for vloggers across all niches. Expect sharp and stunning visuals, thanks to the camera’s impressive ISO range of up to 32,000 (expanded to 102,400 for stills). Not to mention, you also get the super 35mm format 4K movie recording with full-pixel readout.
Pair image quality with the camera’s impressive array of autofocus features — think real-time eye autofocus, real-time tracking, and focus peaking for precision — and it’s hard to top this portable and powerful camera. The a6400’s 24.2 megapixel sensor guarantees those images will turn out crisp as can be, too. Plus, when you add one of the best lenses for the a6400, you’re bound to capture crisp and clear footage.
Key Features:
- Internal 4K movie recording
- 24.2 megapixel APS-C CMOS Sensor
- Continuous shooting at up to 11fps
- New Real-time Eye AF
- New Real-time Tracking
- 180-degree fully-tiltable LCD touchscreen with 921,000 dots of resolution.
Nikon Z 30 DX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body
The Nikon Z 30 has tons of features a vlogger will need! Its front-facing screen is perfect for selfie shoots. 4K video, which is pretty necessary for the YouTube algorithm, is also included. The Nikon Z 30 can live stream in Full HD at 60p and 4K at 30p. This is perfect for those live streams you might do while vlogging. You have eye and face tracking, close up auto focus, and the LCD closes inward to avoid fingerprints or scratches while traveling.
Key Features:
- Live Streaming up to 60p
- Quick Autofocus
- Built-in mic for crystal clear audio
- Image stabilization
- Free camera control app
- Recording up to 2 hours straight
Sony ZV-1 Compact 4K HD Camera with Vlogger Kit
The Sony ZV-1 was built with vloggers in mind so it’s no surprise it’s the best Sony camera for vlogging. Its vari-angle LCD screen is perfect for composing on-camera shots. Meanwhile, the directional three-capsule microphone and bundled windscreen ensure your voice is crisp and audible so your viewers don’t miss a word.
The ZV-1 comes with Sony’s innovative color science technology, ensuring you look fresh and natural on screen, with a SoftSkin option available for smoothing blemishes. Plus, with 4K video recording, those precise hues are full of detail. Use the ZV-1 with a wide range of Bluetooth-compatible grips, including the GP-VPT2BT — a pairing that’s sure to impress viewers.
Key Features:
- 20.1MP stacked back illuminated 1″ Exmor RS CMOS sensor with DRAM
- 4K movie with full pixel readout, no pixel binning
- Fast Hybrid AF, Real Time Eye AF, Real-Time AF tracking
- Side-articulating LCD screen
- Clear Voice with 3-capsule directional microphone. Wind screen accessory included
- 3.5mm microphone jack with multi-interface shoe
DJI Action 2 4K Ultra HD Power Combo Camera
If your speciality is action shots then the DJI will be able to capture all of your movement effortlessly. It’s incredibly compact allowing you to easily carry it wherever you go. With its lightweight aluminum alloy body you get a sleek minimalistic look. The Action 2 uses a magnetic locking design that allows you to interchange accessories incredibly fast and securely with a magnet.
The Action 2 can shoot up to 4K at 120fps making it ideal for those fast-moving shoots. You have 155 degree field of view and a custom aspheric lens. It’s dustproof, waterproof up to 10 meters, and drop-proof! This is an ideal companion for water shoots, skateboarding, sports, hiking, and so much more.
Check out our hands-on review of the DJI Action 2 with AndrewOptics.
Key Features:
- 4K 120fps
- 155 Degree FOV
- Dustproof, waterproof (10 meters), drop-proof
- 8x slow motion
- Timelapse
- Magnetic mounts with the option of ¼” screw hole
- DJI Mimo App
- Film up to 180 minutes
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Mirrorless Camera
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III mirrorless camera lets creators unleash their potential, with a wide range of features for vloggers to enjoy. Travel and adventure vloggers can capture the world, sans backache, thanks to this compact camera system. It’s roughly 55% smaller and 64% lighter than most full-frame mirrorless cameras.
The E-M5 Mark III is also fully weather-sealed, making it ripe for adventures at home or on the go. But the E-M5 Mark III is more than tough: it’s packed with features (see Olympus ambassador Gavin Hoey take the OM-D E-M5 for a spin). The 20 megapixel sensor promises stunning stills, while the accurate autofocus ensures your subjects are sharp, even when moving. This powerful camera supports 4K video at 30p recording — no surprise it’s one of the best cameras for vlogging.
Key features:
- 20MP Live MOS Sensor
- 10fps high-speed sequential shooting with AF/AE Tracking
- 30fps maximum sequential shooting speed with focus and exposure locked
- 4K Video supports C4K and 4K 30p video recording
- Wi-Fi Compatible with Bluetooth® Version 4.2 BLE
Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 Mirrorless Camera
A staple in the creator world, the Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 mirrorless camera boasts all the makings of one of the best cameras for vlogging: 4K video at 24p and 30p, V-LogL recording, and advanced spatial audio recording with tracking. The vari-angle LCD screen lets you compose the perfect shot. Meanwhile, the DC-G100’s frame marker indicates popular aspect ratios for social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
A compact design makes the DC-G100 ideal for travel and adventure photographers, although with stunning visuals and a creatively powerful full HD at 60p for slow-motion, this mirrorless camera is easily one of the best cameras for vlogging and videographers.
Key features:
- Records 4K at 30/25/24p and Full HD at 60/50p
- 4x/2x slow recording and 8x/4x/2x fast recording in Full HD
- 20.3-megapixel MOS sensor
- ISO range of 25600
- High-quality audio recording with OZO Audio by Nokia
- Tracking, Surround, and Auto audio recording modes
Sony ZV-E10 Mirrorless Camera
The Sony ZV-E10 combines a compact camera with all the bells and whistles of a mirrorless. What sets this apart from other cameras are the accessories you can get with it. Sony has done an incredible job perfecting accessories vloggers will need on the go.
To accompany your ZV-E10, the Sony Shooting Grip is an absolute necessity. This will make shooting so much easier for you. With one hand you can do everything you need and it has a Bluetooth connection!
Now, let’s talk about the camera. The ZV-E10 has a large 24.2 MP sensor, 4K oversampled from 6K with full pixel readout, and no pixel binning. Add to that incredible smooth autofocus, eye focus, and AF tracking. You also get a 3-inch touch screen LCD, a background defocus button for those beautiful bokeh shots, and face priority AE. This is just skimming the surface of what this camera can do. It’s a stellar camera that will be able to handle all the vlogging you throw at it. When you get this camera, make sure you pair it with the shooting grip.
Key Features:
- 24.2MP
- 4K 24fps oversampled from 6K
- 3” touch LCD
- Background Defocus button
- Face priority AE
- Live Streaming with USB cable
- Interval shooting for time-lapse video
- 7x adjustable AF transition speeds
DJI Pocket 2 Gimbal Camera
The incredibly portable, pocket-sized tiny camera makes vlogging on-the-go seamless. The DJI Pocket 2 is equipped to stabilize movement for when you are recording in motion. The size of the camera allows you to fit it in your pocket or bag and take it anywhere.
For vloggers who tend to travel, this is the perfect companion. You get high-definition panorama range of 180-degrees, and a 93-degree viewing angle, giving you the option for selfie videos. When taking photos, the Pocket 2 has a sharp 8x zoom, and a 64 MP image quality. You also get four microphones with intelligent noise reduction. With ActiveTrack 3.0, the Pocket 2 keeps you in the shot while recording!
Key Features:
- 4K 60fps, 1080p, and 720p
- 180-degree panorama
- 8x zoom
- 64 MP image quality
- ActiveTrack 3.0
- Four built in Mics
- Weight: 4.1 oz (117g)
- Battery: 140 minutes
GoPro HERO10 Black
The GoPro Hero10 Black is one of the best cameras for vlogging and capturing footage on the go! The GoPro Hero10 was designed for action and sports footage, but can also be used as a vlogging camera. Check out pro skimboarder and wakesurfer Austin Keen’s hands-on review of the GoPro Hero10 Black for more details.
You get a 1080p resolution with Super Photo and HDR. For those of you who utilize it as a camera, you get 23MP photos and 5.3K video resolution at 60fps. GoPro’s have some of the best video stabilization on the market, perfect for those streams where you’re moving around the space. The size and weight of the GoPro allow you to not take up a lot of desk space and bring it with you on the go!
Key Features:
- Live streaming 1080p
- 23 MP
- 8x slo-mo at 2.7K
- Waterproof up to 33ft
- Weight: 5.39 oz (153g)
- Battery: 1.5 – 2 hours
Insta360 ONE X2 Pocket Camera
Let’s continue the pocket-sized cameras for vlogging with the Insta360 One X2! It has a 360-degree camera mode that offers a dual lens 5.7K resolution. The Insta360 has some of the best stabilization in the game allowing you have a steady and smooth video. With Deep Track 2.0 you can tap or say the word and the camera will follow your target.
The Insta360 is waterproof up to 10m for those awesome water shots. If you use a selfie stick, the Insta360 will edit out the selfie stick while recording to make it look like drone footage. This camera is perfect for creative, action-adventure vloggers.
Key Features:
- 5.7K at 30fps, 25fps, 24fps
- 4K at 50fps, 30fps
- 3K at 100fps
- Dual lens
- Deep Track 2.0
- Waterproof up to 10m
- Weight: 5.25 oz
- Battery: 80 minutes
Fujifilm X-S10 Mirrorless Camera
If you don’t need a pocket-sized camera, then a full-frame mirrorless is a great upgrade! The Fujifilm X-S10 is a compact mirrorless camera with cutting-edge technology. The advanced Face and Eye Detection AF can acquire focus in just 0.02 seconds. It keeps your image crystal clear with sharp tracking AF. You get a resolution of 4K at 30fps creating an incredibly clear video. Your ISO range is 160-12,800, allowing you to work in low light. The camera has Wi-Fi built in and has a 26 MP image resolution.
Key Features:
- 4K at 30fps
- 26 MP
- ISO 160 – 12,800 Sensitivity range
- Weight: 16.49 oz (465g)
- Battery: 40min at 4K
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II Mirrorless Camera
The Legendary Lumix GH5 has been upgraded with livestreaming capabilities. You can wirelessly stream using the LUMIX Sync Smartphone app outdoors and indoors. You have a 20.3MP sensor with the latest autofocus technology. Plus, you can live stream and record at 4K 60fps, 50fps, and 1080p.
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II comes with V-Log L pre-installed which delivers a high dynamic range and broad colors. There are tons of video settings to expand on your creativity. Check out filmmaker Rob Adams’ hands-on review of the Lumix GH5 II and you’ll see why it’s one of the best cameras for vlogging.
Key Features:
- 4K at 60fps, 50fps
- 1080p 60fps
- 20.3 MP
- ISO 100 – 12,800 sensitivity Range
- Weight: 1.60lbs (727g)
- Battery: 40min at 4K
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera
Canon has built a strong camera geared toward content creators and vloggers. You get 24.1MP CMOS sensor with 4K UHD 24p and HD 120p. From previous models, Canon upgraded its Eye Detection, which can now be used during video with Movie Servo AF. With built in Wi-Fi, you can use the EOS Webcam Utility as a webcam for vlogging. You can even connect compatible smart devices using the free Canon Camera Connect App via Bluetooth pairing.
With an incredibly wide ISO sensitivity range of 100 – 25,600, you’ll have complete control of your brightness. Added video quality at 4K 24FPS makes this a great desk vlogging camera. Check out Vanessa Joy’s hands-on review of the Canon EOS M50 Mark II to learn more about its vlogging capabilities.
Key Features:
- 4K at 24FPS
- 24.1MP
- ISO Sensitivity Range 100 – 25,600
- Weight: 13.07oz (387g)
- Battery: 130 minutes
Best Vlogging Accessories:
Rode Microphone VideoMic GO
The compact Rode VideoMic GO may be small, but this on-camera microphone is impressively. The VideoMic GO boasts a tight pickup area in front of the microphone, reducing surround sound while making the subject’s crisp and clear. Unlike some vlogging microphones, this powerful and lightweight mic delivers impeccable acoustics without complicated switches and settings. Simply plug it into your camera’s external microphone input, and start recording!
Joby GorillaPod 3K Kit
The lightweight Joby GorillaPod 3K is just as much a handheld stabilizer or selfie stick as it is a tripod. You can attach your camera to this 6.6-pound tripod to capture b-roll, street scenes, on-camera interviews, or live streams. Then, you can transition to a walk-and-talk vlog format while taking your viewers through town. Flexibility is the Joby GorillaPod’s most renowned feature; attach it to a tree, fence, pole—or anything in between—and film away, knowing your gear will be safe and supported.
Flashpoint 19″ 55W 5500K Dimmable LED Ring Light
Bring flattering, natural-looking light to your vlog, even without a nearby window, with the Flashpoint 19″ 55W 5500K Dimmable LED Ring Light. Ring lights are a favorite among today’s top vloggers and videographers — just check out our list of the best ring lights for YouTube videos. They deliver soft, nearly shadowless illumination that looks natural and eliminates skin imperfections.
This lightweight and easy-to-setup kit lets you create that stunning light at home or on the go. The kit produces a maximum output of 4800 LUX and a color temperature of up to 5500K. And it only uses 55 watts of energy in the process.
Vlogging Camera Frequently Asked Questions
What camera do most vloggers use?
There are so many different types of vlogging — travel vlogging, food vlogging, game vlogging and more. Vloggers’ camera preferences vary widely, but often, you’ll see the Sony ZV-1, DJI Pocket 2, GoPRo Hero 10, or even a smartphone as a go-to camera choice.
What should I buy for vlogging?
When vlogging, the camera is not the only important thing. How your audience can hear you is incredibly vital. You want to make sure you have a strong microphone, and maybe even a wireless one if you plan on stepping away from your camera. From there, you want to invest in a tripod to hold your camera steady. Chances are you probably won’t want to hold your vlogging camera up the entire time. For lighting, a ring light is great and will be able to showcase you.
Is an iPhone good for vlogging?
With smartphone technology constantly improving, an iPhone may be a good stand-in for a vlogging camera in a pinch. However, you’ll want to upgrade to a dedicated vlogging camera to get all of the benefits. For example, in an iPhone, the front camera is not as good as the back camera. You’ll want to use the back camera to record since it’s better quality, but you won’t be able to see what you’re filming unless you purchase an external screen. If vlogging is your passion, invest in a camera with the features you need.
For more ideas to improve your videos, here are five must-have vlogging accessories your channel can’t live without!
Feature image via Shutterstock
