Vlogging is a great way to build an audience on YouTube and TikTok.
But not everyone wants to drop a few thousand dollars on gear like a DSLR camera and DSLR microphones just to start vlogging.
A cheap vlogging camera is a fantastic way to get started for content creators, YouTubers, and even regular business owners.
And to stay relevant in the current attention economy, you have to pump out video content, or remain invisible to the world.
The only problem is that there are literally hundreds of digital cameras on the market with different use cases and functionality.
- Do you need a cheap vlogging camera?
- How about a 4K camera?
- Are you a beginner on YouTube?
- Does your budget allow for a more expensive model?
Being a digital content creator for over 3+ years now, I’ve done all the research and covered them all!
Whether you’re looking for the best budget vlogging camera, a podcast camera, or the best 4K YouTube camera, read on and discover my top picks of 2023!
What Are The Best Vlogging Cameras?
These are my top picks for the best vlogging cameras on the market right now.
- Best under $500 – Canon EOS M200
- Best complete vlogging kit – GoPro Hero 11 Black
- Best cheap – DJI OM 6
- Best for Youtube – Sony ZV-1
- Best with flip screen – Fujifilm X-S10
- Best small – DJI Pocket 2
- Best for food vlogging – Canon PowerShot SX740
- Best 4k – Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
- Best Sony – Sony ZV-E10
- Best Canon – Canon PowerShot G7 X MIII
- Best Nikon – Nikon Z30
- Best for motovlogging – Panasonic Lumix G9
- Best for travel – Panasonic Lumix G100
- Best for beginner filmmakers – Canon EOS M50
- Best streaming – Insta360 Link
Interested in discovering more details about your specific vlogging camera? 👇
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1. Canon EOS M200
Best vlogging camera under $500
(Image credit: CellularKenya)
Image Quality: 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 120 fps)
Weight: 1.19lbs / 540g
Price: Starting at $449
Vlogging is all about capturing your life in video, and the Canon EOS M200 is the best video camera for the job if you’re looking for something below $500.
With this camera, you’ll be able to capture all of your adventures in fantastic detail, and the lightweight and compact body makes it easy to carry around with you everywhere you go.
The Canon EOS M200 is a mirrorless camera that offers stunning image quality and 4K video recording thanks to its 24.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and interchangeable lenses.
The M200 also has a flip-out 3” LCD screen that makes it easy to frame your shots, and it comes with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy sharing.
If you’re looking for a vlogging camera that can do it all, then the Canon EOS M200 is the perfect choice and starts our vlogging camera list as the best overall.
Order yours today and start capturing amazing videos that will wow your viewers.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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2. GoPro Hero 11 Black Creators Edition
Best complete vlogging camera kit
(Image credit: GoPro)
Image Quality: 27 Megapixel CMOS sensor
Video Resolution: 5.3K at 60 fps and 2.7K at 240 fps
Weight: 0.33lbs / 153g
Price: Starting at $549
Looking for the best action camera to help you up your vlogging game? The GoPro Hero 11 Black Creators Edition offers the complete package!
This complete vlogging kit has everything you need to take your videos to an insane level, including a super sharp 5.3K camera, a front facing screen for easy framing, and built-in stabilization for those smooth shots.
With the included tripod/remote, light mod, microphone, great battery life, and accessories, you can take your GoPro anywhere, from the beach to the slopes.
So whether you’re a seasoned vlogger or just starting out, the GoPro Hero 11 Black action cam is perfect for making killer videos.
It’s complete out of the box and you seriously don’t need anything else to start vlogging like a champ with one of the best compact cameras out there.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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3. DJI OM 6
Best cheap vlogging camera under $200
(Image credit: MekVox)
Weight: 1lbs / 460g
Price: Starting at $159
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to get into vlogging, the DJI OM 6 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer is a great option.
This 3-axis gimbal stabilizer is designed for use with any smartphone, and it’s under $200, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
The DJI OM 6 selfie stick is super easy to use and lets you get smooth and stable footage, no matter how shaky your hands are.
You’ll be up and running in no time, use your existing phone and get great results right away.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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4. Sony ZV-1
Best Youtube vlogging camera
(Image credit: FastPotsND)
Image Quality: 20.1 Megapixel 1” Exmor RS CMOS sensor
Video Resolution: 4K at 30 fps
Weight: 0.65lbs / 294g
Price: Starting at $648
Finally, a camera made specifically for YouTube vloggers!
The Sony ZV-1 is the perfect tool for those who want to create high-quality content for YouTube and other social media platforms.
With its compact design and powerful features, the ZV-1 is perfect for on-the-go vlogging as well if you need to grab it and go.
It’s able to capture beautiful 4K video and stunning 20.1 megapixel photos.
And with its built-in microphone and advanced autofocus system, you’ll be able to create great-sounding videos that look and sound amazing.
The Bokeh feature in this camera is especially great for blurring out unwanted parts in your videos to stay in the center of attention. Pair this with a great microphone and you’re all set.
So if you’re looking for a vlogging camera that will help you take your content to the next level, then the Sony ZV-1 is a great pick for digital content creators.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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5. Fujifilm X-S10
Best vlogging camera with flip screen
(Image credit: fujifilmxsa)
Image Quality: 26.1 Megapixel APS-C sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 30 fps or 1080p at 120 fps)
Weight: 1.03lbs / 467g
Price: Starting at $1191
Looking for a versatile and powerful vlogging camera that won’t let you down? Look no further than the Fujifilm X-S10, perfect for capturing amazing moments on the go.
With a flip screen for easy framing, state-of-the-art sensor and processor combo, and fast autofocus, this camera is perfect for on-the-go shooting.
With the 26.1 megapixels of resolution, you’ll be able to capture stunning images and videos that you’ll be proud to share with the world.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur vlogger, the X-S10 is a great camera for vlogging. Try it out today and take it for a spin, I think you’ll love it.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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6. DJI Osmo Pocket 2
Best small camera for vlogging
(Image credit: Amazon)
Image Quality: 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 120 fps)
Weight: 1.19lbs / 540g
Price: Starting at $449
If you’re looking for the best small camera for vlogging and content creation on a budget, then look no further than the DJI Osmo Pocket 2.
This compact and portable camera is perfect for anyone who wants to get started in vlogging or content creation without breaking the bank.
The Osmo Pocket 2 comes with a built-in gimbal that ensures your videos are always smooth and steady, no matter how much you move around with its 3-axis stabilization system.
And with its 4K video resolution, you’ll be able to capture stunning videos that will look great on any screen.
The built-in mic can easily record audio to go along with your videos and although the sound quality is great, it’s worth looking into connecting an external mic later down the road.
You can even connect the Osmo Pocket 2 to your smartphone to get a larger “flip screen” and unlock more features via a USB Type C connection.
Customers love the video footage taken by the Osmo Pocket that makes content clear and crisp. Some vloggers even say that it’s one of their favorite cheap cameras for its portability and gimbal image stabilization!
So if you’re looking for a small camera that packs a big punch, then check out the DJI Osmo Pocket 2. It’s crazy to think about what you get with this little technical wonder.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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7. Canon PowerShot SX740
Best camera for food vlogging
(Image credit: CellularKenya)
Image Quality: 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 30 fps)
Weight: 1.19lbs / 540g
Price: Starting at $418
So you’re looking for a vlogging camera, are you? Well, you’ve come to the right article. The Canon PowerShot SX740 is the perfect camera for beginners. It’s got all the features you need to get started, and then some!
The 40x optical zoom is impressive, to say the least. And with Optical Image Stabilization, you can be sure that your shots will be sharp and steady.
But that’s not all – the 4K video recording is simply stunning. The colors are beautiful and the detail is incredible. You’ll be able to record videos in super-high definition 4K 30p with ease.
And if you’re feeling creative, time-lapse videos in 4K are a breeze to create with this camera.
What makes this camera stand out is its dedicated “food mode” feature, that together with the 40x optical zoom makes for some incredible mouth watering pictures in extreme detail.
But what about when things get a little shaky? No problem. The Dual Sensing IS kicks in to deliver reliable image stabilization – even when the zoom lens is fully extended.
So whether you’re recording a video or snapping a photo, you can rest assured that it will turn out beautifully. Try the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS, you won’t be disappointed.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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8. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Best 4k vlogging camera
(Image credit: OlympusProIndia)
Image Quality: 20 Megapixel Live MOS sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 30 fps)
Weight: 2.6lbs / 1180g
Price: Starting at $899
If you’re the type of person who loves nothing more than packing your bags and exploring new places, then you need a camera that can keep up with your wanderlust.
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the perfect travel companion, packing all the features you need to capture amazing images and video no matter where your adventures take you.
With a 20MP LIVE MOS sensor, 5-axis image stabilization and 30fps continuous shooting, the E-M5 Mark III provides outstanding performance in any situation.
Whether you’re shooting handheld telephoto shots or low light photos, this camera is up to the task. And thanks to its WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, it’s easy to transfer files to your smart device so you can share your photos and videos with the world.
So if you’re looking for a camera that can keep pace with your adventurous spirit, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is one of the best 4k vlogging cameras.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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9. Sony ZV-E10
Best Sony camera for vlogging
(Image credit: MiroIsmatov)
Image Quality: 24.2 Megapixel APS-C sensor
Video Resolution: 4K at 30 fps
Weight: 1.01lbs / 458g
Price: Starting at $798
Looking for a camera that’s specifically designed for vlogging by Sony?
The Sony ZV-E10 camera has a variety of features that make it ideal for vlogging, such as the Product Showcase Setting, which automatically shifts focus from your face to a product held in front of the camera.
You also have one-touch control of background blurring with the “Defocus” setting, which gives your videos a professional look.
The image stabilization system ensures smooth, clean footage even when you’re walking and with Face Priority AE, your face will always be well-lit.
The camera actually tracks your face and eyes to keep a steady focus without wandering off onto other subjects.
The ZV-E10 also makes it easy to clearly record your voice without any worries with its Directional 3-Capsule Mic, or add on an external microphone for some serious recordings.
In conclusion the Sony ZV-E10 is a great camera for anyone serious about vlogging and who wants to stay with the trusted Sony brand. This is pretty much their flagship product.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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10. Canon PowerShot G7 X MIII video creator kit
Best Canon vlogging camera
(Image credit: aoiair_)
Image Quality: 20.2 Megapixel Stacked CMOS sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 30 fps or 1080p at 120 fps)
Weight: 0.82lbs / 372g
Price: Starting at $899
The Canon PowerShot G7 X MIII is an incredible camera that is designed for vloggers and content creators who want to create high-quality, professional-looking videos.
With its large sensor and powerful lens, the Canon PowerShot G7 X MIII produces stunning video quality that will make your viewers sit up and take notice.
It’s packed with features that make vlogging a breeze, including a flip-up LCD screen, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a tripod grip and live streaming capabilities.
Whether you’re a seasoned vlogger or just starting out, the PowerShot G7 X MIII is an awesome camera by Canon for anyone who wants to create amazing video content.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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11. Nikon Z30
Best Nikon vlogging camera
(Image credit: nikonturkiye)
Image Quality: 20.9 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 30 fps or 1080p at 60 fps )
Weight: 0.77lbs / 350g
Price: Starting at $846
Making videos is a great way to connect with your audience and Nikon’s Z30 is an awesome camera for just that.
With its sleek design, powerful imaging capabilities and easy-to-use controls, the Z30 is ideal for anyone looking to create high-quality videos.
With 4K resolution, autofocus with eye tracking, and blurred backgrounds, the Z30 is perfect for capturing every detail of your vlogging adventures.
The built-in flip out touchscreen selfie monitor makes it easy to frame your shots and interact with your audience – even on the go.
If you want to add some creative flair to your videos, the Z30 offers a range of special effects filters that you can apply to your footage.
And for those times when you need to live stream your content, the Z30 features plug and play webcam operation and smooth Full HD 60p streaming over USB-C.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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12. Panasonic Lumix G9
Best camera for motovlogging
(Image credit: RogerdelaHarpe)
Image Quality: 20.3 Megapixel sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 60 fps)
Weight: 1.27lbs / 576g
Price: Starting at $997
Looking for a camera that can keep up with your high-octane lifestyle? Look no further than the Panasonic Lumix G9.
This camera can handle any light or weather condition you throw at it, and with the 3,680k-dot OLED Live View Finder, you’ll always be able to frame the perfect shot.
And if you’re looking for even more detail, the High-Resolution special mode allows you to capture 80 megapixels in RAW recording by shooting the 20.3-megapixel sensor 8 times to create a single image.
The Dual I.S. 2 allows you to compensate for a broader range of movement types to render sharper, clearer imagery.
Regardless if you’re shooting in bright sunlight or lowlight, with the Panasonic Lumix G9 you can rest assured that your footage will be shake-free no matter what conditions you’re shooting in.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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13. Panasonic Lumix G100
Best camera for travel vlogging
(Image credit: PanasonicAU)
Image Quality: 20.3 Megapixel
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 30 fps)
Weight: 0.66lbs / 300g
Price: Starting at $499
Looking for a travel-friendly camera that can do it all? Meet the Panasonic Lumix G100.
This powerful little camera is perfect for both beginner and experienced shooters, offering 4K/30p and FHD/60p video, plus gorgeous stills.
With the 3,680k-dot “Live View Finder”, advanced 5-axis HYBRID image stabilization, and a free-angle monitor, you’ll always get the perfect shot.
And with the ability to use it as a webcam and integrate seamlessly with your smartphone via the Panasonic Image app, the G100 is truly the ultimate travel companion.
Ready to capture your next adventure? Then grab a Panasonic Lumix G100 and let’s go!
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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14. Canon EOS M50
Best vlogging camera for beginner filmmakers
(Image credit: NiaWiggz)
Image Quality: 24.1 Megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor
Video Resolution: 4K UHD videos (2160p at 24 fps)
Weight: 0.86lbs / 390g
Price: Starting at $799
The Canon EOS M50 is a powerful and versatile camera that is perfect for capturing beautiful images and videos.
With stunning 4K UHD video quality and quick and clear focus, you’ll be able to preserve your memories in vivid detail.
The automatic image transfer feature makes it easy to share your photos and videos with friends and family.
Additionally, the EOS M50 records up to 4K UHD 24p, which is typical to create a cinematic feel to your videos, and 120fps in Full HD for slow-motion shots.
Overall it’s a fantastic beginner camera for those that are getting into film, videography, and cinematography.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
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15. Insta360 Link
Best 4k podcast and streaming camera
(Image credit: HistoryViewVR)
Image Quality: 1/2” CMOS Sensor
Video Resolution: 4K (2160p at 30 fps)
Weight: 0.75lbs / 340g
Price: Starting at $295
If you’re looking for a 4k podcast and streaming camera that is easy to use and produces high-quality video, then the Insta360 Link is an amazon option.
This powerful little camera delivers stunning 4k video quality, making it perfect for anyone looking to up their video game.
Whether you’re a professional YouTuber or just looking to start a podcast, the Link is awesome.
The 3-axis gimbal follows your every move, while the simple hand gestures make it easy to manage calls.
With the desktop software, you can customize your settings to get the perfect shot every time and the 1/2″ sensor ensures that you’ll be able to capture clear images even in low light conditions.
It also comes with a built-in privacy protection, so you can be sure that there are no prying eyes by accident.
📦 Shop now at Amazon
What is a vlogging camera?
A vlogging camera is a digital camera that is designed for video blogging. It typically has a wide-angle lens to capture more of the scene, and it may have features such as image stabilization that help to produce smooth videos.
Many vlogging cameras also include microphones to capture audio, and some even have built-in screens so that you can see what you’re shooting as you’re shooting it.
Why use a camera instead of your phone?
There are a few reasons why using a camera instead of your phone might be a good idea:
1. Images taken with a camera typically have better quality than images taken with a phone. This is because cameras have larger image sensors and lenses, which results in less noise and better detail.
2. Cameras offer more shooting modes and features than phones do. For example, you can control aperture, shutter speed, and ISO on most cameras, while most phones only allow you to control the exposure compensation.
3. With a camera, you can use different lenses to change the look and feel of your photos. For example, you can use a telephoto lens for portrait shots or a macro lens for close-ups.
Vlogging camera FAQs
What camera do most vloggers use?
Most outdoor vloggers use a GoPro.
GoPros are small, portable, and durable cameras that can be used to capture high-quality video footage. They’re popular among vloggers because they’re easy to use and they produce great results.
For content creation in a studio the camera varies depending on the need, if it’s specifically for YouTube vlogging, food pics, product reviews and more.
Which camera brand is best for vlogging?
Some of the most popular brands for vlogging include Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Panasonic.
Each of these brands offers a range of different cameras that are suitable for vlogging, from entry-level models to more advanced options.
So it’s important to do your research before making a purchase and find the model that best suits your needs.
That said, one of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a vlogging camera is its portability.
If you plan on doing a lot of traveling or filming on the go, then make sure to take the weight and size into consideration.
How much should I spend on a vlogging camera?
If you just want to vlog casually with family and friends, then you don’t need anything too fancy. A decent camera phone should do the trick and perhaps an added gimbal hand grip.
But if you’re looking to take your vlogging seriously and produce high quality videos, then you’ll need a more powerful camera.
You can expect to spend anywhere from $300-$1,000 on a decent vlogging camera.
What megapixel is good for vlogging?
It depends on what you mean by “good.” A higher megapixel count will give you a higher resolution image, but that’s not always important for vlogging.
What is more important is the quality of the sensor and the lens.
Make sure you get a camera with good low-light performance, because many vlogs are shot indoors or in other low-light conditions.
And also make sure the lens is wide enough to capture your surroundings.
Which cheap camera is best for beginner vloggers?
I would recommend vloggers use a camera with optical image stabilization which you can find mostly in the top cameras for vlogs listed above.
The question of “which camera is best” really depends on your needs as a content creator, since all these options are great and have different features that make them stand out from each other depending on what your end goal is.
Our list above has been put together based on real-life experience from actual vloggers who found certain products better suited for their specific uses compared to others!