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Are you starting your vlogging journey but don’t want to break the bank on your first camera?
The main things you need to consider for vlogging are:
- A flip screen that swivels so that you can see yourself
- A microphone input so that you can attach a lavalier or on-camera shotgun microphone
- Decent autofocus
- A while-angle lens (preferably a zoom lens)
- Whether you want a traditional camera, use your phone or an all-in-one package like the DJI Osmo Gimbal series.
Here is my curated list of budget-friendly cameras that combine quality, ease of use, and essential features to help beginners enter video blogging smoothly.
Table of Contents
1. DJI Osmo Pocket 2 Gimbal Camera Kit
If you’re seeking a compact solution for high-quality vlogging, the DJI Osmo Pocket 2 Gimbal Camera Kit offers exceptional stabilization and 4K video capability in a pocket-sized design.
Its gimbal technology ensures that your footage remains smooth, even when you’re on the move, which is critical for capturing dynamic vlog content.
The camera’s 1/1.7-inch sensor allows for decent performance in low-light conditions—a frequent challenge for vloggers.
Moreover, the Osmo Pocket 2 features a modular design with various accessories to enhance audio quality and expand shooting possibilities.
You can attach a wide-angle lens, increase your field of view, or use the wireless microphone for pristine sound capture.
Product Specs:
- 1/1.7-inch sensor
- 4K video at 60fps
- Up to 8x zoom
- Modular accessory system
- Pocket-sized design
Pros:
- Ultra-portable
- Advanced stabilization
- Versatile accessory compatibility
- Strong low-light performance
- 1/1.7-inch sensor
- 4K video at 60fps
- Up to 8x zoom
- Modular accessory system
- Pocket-sized design
- You get many accessories included when you buy the kit.
Cons:
- Limited built-in microphone quality
- Battery life could be limiting for extensive use
2. DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Gimbal Camera
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Gimbal Camera elevates your vlogging with even more refined stabilization and enhanced video quality in an incredibly compact design.
Its 3-axis gimbal smooths out the shakes and jitters that can plague handheld footage, ensuring your content captures the action without the distraction of unintended camera movement.
With its 1/2.3-inch sensor, the integrated camera offers a wide 80° FOV and a bright f/2.0 aperture, allowing for impressive image quality even in low-light conditions.
The ability to shoot 4K/60fps video at a high bitrate of 100Mbps means your vlogs will be rich in detail and ready for professional-grade post-production.
The 12MP photos, with large 1.55μm pixels, further complement your creative arsenal.
Functionalities like ActiveTrack and FaceTrack keep your subjects in focus, while Timelapse and Motionlapse add dynamic flair to your time-bound shots.
NightShot mode is a boon for after-dark adventures, ensuring your storytelling doesn’t end when the sun goes down.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and lightweight
- Superior image stabilization
- Versatile shooting modes for creative flexibility
- 3-axis gimbal stabilization
- 4K/60fps video at 100Mbps
- 12MP photos with 1.55μm pixel size
- 1/2.3-inch sensor with 80° FOV and f/2.0 aperture
- ActiveTrack, FaceTrack, Timelapse, Motion lapse, Pano, NightShot, Story Mode
Cons:
- Limited battery life
- Restricted gimbal roll range
- Compatibility issues with some accessories and devices
3. Canon PowerShot Vlogging Camera with 4K Video Streaming
The Canon PowerShot is easily one of the top vlogging cameras available. It includes many features that vloggers look for, including a flip screen, mic input, video streaming, and 4K video support.
The PowerShot is a powerful camera with a three-inch touch panel LCD screen that rotates 180 degrees for selfies. It also features advanced optical image stabilization and autofocus to help keep your video crisp and clear.
The one drawback is the price. The Canon PowerShot is one of the more expensive vlogging cameras, but the higher price tag allows you to shoot cinematic 4K video at 30 frames per second.
Pros
- Supports 4K video at 30 frames per second
- Includes a 180-degree flip screen touch panel
- Includes a headphone jack mic input and a cold shoe
Cons
- One of the more expensive vlogging cameras, but it offers a lot of bang for the buck
4. Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera
The Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 is a close runner-up to the Canon PowerShot, as it offers 4K video at 30 frames per second, an external mic input, and advanced optical image stabilization.
The LUMIX FZ300 is a premium DSLR camera with a rugged, dustproof design. It is a great option for those who film content for their vlogs outdoors or in extreme conditions.
You can also capture great footage with this camera. It includes a high-quality camera sensor and can snap 12.1-megapixel photos. You also get a three-inch rear flip screen for composing your shot from in front of the camera.
Pros
- Shoots high-quality 4K video
- Includes an external audio jack for microphones
- Durable design
Cons
- Relatively expensive camera
5. Sony HDRCX455/B Full HD 8GB Camcorder
While most vloggers use DSLR cameras, camcorders still provide a suitable option. The Sony HDRCX455/B is an HD camcorder with a quality ZEISS lens.
It is a little more versatile than a typical DSLR camera, thanks to its variety of built-in features. It includes 30x optical zoom, 350x digital zoom, Wi-Fi connectivity, 8GB of internal memory, and image stabilization.
The camcorder also has a three-inch swivel LCD screen and a standard headphone jack for connecting an external mic. Unfortunately, it does not have a hot or cold shoe for mounting an external mic.
Pros
- Includes a three-inch swivel LCD screen
- Offers 30x optical zoom and 350x digital zoom
- The image stabilization and autofocus work quickly
Cons
- Does not have a mount for securing an external mic
- Does not record 4K video
6. Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera Kit
The Canon EOS M50 is another high-end vlogging camera for those who want to capture crisp, clear 4K footage.
As with the PowerShot, the camera has advanced autofocus, image stabilization, and a wide range of settings to play around with.
Of course, the most important features include the external mic input and a hot shoe for mounting the mic. The camera also has a swivel screen that rotates 180 degrees for viewing the scene from in front of the camera.
The price tag is a little high but within the same range as the PowerShot and the Panasonic LUMIX. The higher price is due to the quality components, from the lens to the DIGIC 8 image processor and the APS C CMOS sensor. You should get more vibrant colors and sharper videos, even in low-light settings.
Pros
- Includes an external mic input and a hot shoe
- The flip screen rotates 180 degrees to the side
- Includes intelligent autofocus for quicker focusing
Cons
- May cost more than some vloggers want to spend
7. Olympus PEN E-PL10 White Camera Body
The Olympus PEN E-PL10 is a vlogging camera with essential features, including a 180-degree rotatable screen and optical image stabilization. It also has a hot shoe for connecting an external microphone or a flash.
The camera records 4K video at 30 frames per second and can capture 1080p HD video at 60 frames per second. It is a reliable little camera with two main benefits. When you flip the screen to the side, it automatically switches to selfie mode. It also has an intuitive touch AF system that quickly focuses on the subject, even when filming moving subjects.
The Olympus PEN E-PL10 costs slightly less than the Canon and Panasonic cameras but is still relatively expensive.
Pros
- Automatically switches to selfie mode
- Includes a hot shoe for connecting an external mic
- Menu is easy to navigate
Cons
- Relatively costly vlogging camera
How to pick the right vlogging camera for beginners: Essential features to look for.
Here is a guide on what to look for when picking the best vlogging camera for beginners, especially when on a budget:
1. Price
Since you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, set a price range that you’re comfortable with.
2. Video Quality
Look for a camera that can shoot at least 1080p (Full HD). While 4K is becoming more popular and offers better quality, it’s also more expensive and requires more storage and processing power for editing.
3. Audio Quality
Good audio is crucial for vlogging. Look for cameras with a microphone input jack so you can add an external mic for better sound quality. If that’s not possible within your budget, ensure the built-in mic is decent.
4. Autofocus
A reliable and fast continuous autofocus is essential, as you’ll often be moving around, and you want the camera to keep you in focus without any manual adjustment during filming.
5. Image Stabilization
This feature helps to keep your video smooth when you’re moving around. Consider a lens with optical image stabilization features if the camera doesn’t have stabilization.
6. Flip Screen
A front-facing or articulating screen is handy for vlogging because it allows you to see yourself while recording to ensure you’re in the frame and focus.
7. Weight and Size
Since vlogging often involves holding the camera for extended periods or taking it with you, a compact and lightweight camera can be very beneficial.
8. Battery Life
Look for a camera with decent battery life or the possibility to use an external power source, as vlogging typically consumes a lot of battery power.
9. Connectivity
Features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can transfer videos to your phone or computer wirelessly, which is great for quick uploads if you’re on the go.
10. Accessories
Check the compatibility with accessories such as tripods, gimbals, and additional lenses, which can improve the quality of your vlogs.
11. Low-light Performance
Consider how well the camera performs in different lighting conditions, especially if you plan to shoot in low-light environments. The bigger the sensor, the better the low-light performance.
12. Brand and Model
Research brands and models are known for their video capabilities within your budget. Brands like Canon, Sony, and Panasonic have entry-level cameras often recommended for vlogging.
Conclusion
Selecting the right affordable vlogging camera for beginners should focus on simple operation, high-quality video production, and cost-effectiveness.
New vloggers can start creating content confidently and economically by emphasizing these aspects. Make a thoughtful choice and let your creativity shine on video.
Also, check out the essential vlogging gear checklist for new vloggers.
