Best Vlogging Cameras (Jan. 2021) – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

I reckon you’ll agree with me when I say: Finding the best vlogging camera for yourself is quite tricky.

isn’t it?

That is why we have created a list of great cameras for vlogging. After researching online, I have shortlisted the top 10 vlogging cameras which can deliver quality video.

Vlogging is something that has taken the internet by storm, and even though the concept of vlogging has existed for quite some time.

I can assure you that it is something many people are entirely unaware of especially those who’ve just started using the internet the way it is supposed to be in use.

For those unaware, vlogging can be considered a branch of blogging. However, instead of using your words to express yourself, you use videos. Vlog is also known as Video Blog.

I have also created an in-depth guide to become a successful YouTuber.

The videos can be taken on the best vlogging cameras and can be short, or long, depending on the amount of stuff you have to share, and you can take them in either first-person perspective.

Many people have taken up vlogging as their professional careers.

Vloggers like Casey Neistat, Shane Dawson, PewDiePie, and Casper Lee have amassed millions of followers, and even a higher number of views.

You can easily analyze the graph which shows the interest of vlogging over time.

Some of the main ingredients of a successful vlogging career:

If you look carefully, starting a vlog (video blog) is not all that difficult, you need a good camera, a YouTube channel as well as constant upload of content that’s both refreshing, and engaging.

Vlogging cameras are not a lot different from your usual cameras.

With enough hardware to allow you to make good quality videos, as well as shoot good pictures if you prefer that.

Our list of the best vlogging cameras is going to explore the top 10 best vlogging cameras that you can buy and help you to pick the best one out of the bunch with a detailed Buyer’s Guide.

When it comes to the cameras, Canon has been at the helm for quite some time, something I can personally endorse.

This digital camera features a high-sensitivity CMOS sensor combined with Canon’s powerful DIGIC 6 image processor.

Upon receiving the PowerShot G7 X, there was much excitement in the air, because honestly, it is one of the highly revered vlogging cameras available in the market.

PowerShot series has always been the one that caters to most of the needs without being too expensive. It is something the majority of vloggers are going to prefer, or at least they will if they are trying to be on a budget.

 NOTE:  There’s a new version of this camera available Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II.

I also love the physical controls that are available on the PowerShot G7 X, it is something significant in my opinion, as it is going to help you have full control over how you want to shoot images or videos.

I believe that the Canon PowerShot G7 X is one of the best cameras for vlogging, but it is also essential for me to list down some of the downsides that I felt aren’t that big of an issue.

For starters, the G7 X does not have a hot-shoe, and the autofocus system seems a bit old, albeit it works well.

This digital camera shoots fantastic images, as well as videos; it is a compact camera, has the premium build quality, and physical controls. On top of that, it has needed features like NFC, and Wi-Fi.

If you are okay with the lack of a hot-shoe, and the fact that the autofocus system is somewhat dated, then I can assure you that the camera is going to be exceptional for your vlogging experience no matter where you decided to take it.

According to the specifications, the battery life of PowerShot G7 X is below average as the battery lasts for around 75 minutes of continuous shooting, or 210 shots.

We are saying so because the average number of continuous shots in large sensor compact cameras is around 311 shots.

In the past, when one of the famous YouTuber Mr. Ben Brown asked Casey Neistat’s about his Canon G7X, he said that:

Why do Famous YouTubers love the G7 X?

The lens quality is excellent regarding the price of the camera. Additionally, you get some fantastic features like time-lapse, slow-motion videos, a full 180-degree rotation flip screen, great autofocus.

Some other famous YouTubers that used the G7 X are FaZe Rain, Pointless BlogTV.

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If you think that the PowerShot G7 X is not enough for your need, but you still want something from the PowerShot series, then don’t worry as we do have an excellent option for you.

The camera features 4.2x optical zoom and offers pretty excellent full HD video quality. It also has a fast f/1.8-2.8 zoom lens with a great 24-100 mm effective range.

Canon’s PowerShot G7 X Mark II is one of the highly revered vlogging cameras on our list, and for a good reason.

Before we begin, it is crucial to keep in mind that the original G7 X did not require many upgrades in the first place because it was already a beautiful camera. However, Canon did add some excellent features like the new DIGIC 7 image processor, and some changes here and there.

Here’s the kicker: The Mark I shot constant Raw blasts at only 1fps frame rate, the Mark II would now be able to shoot Raws, JPEGs or both at 8 frames per second.

The battery life of PowerShot G7 X Mark II is better than its predecessor. It can shoot up to 265 shots per charge which is still a mediocre performance for its class.

The Canon PowerShot G 7 X Mark II also has a screen that doesn’t articulate entirely, and while it is only a minor issue, for many people, it can create hiccups. Lastly, upon testing the camera thoroughly, I came to realize that the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is not as good at zooming as I had hoped.

Though, considering how vlogging does not require you to zoom in or out a lot, you should not have any issue whatsoever. In conclusion, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is a fantastic camera for vlogging.

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Many times, I get a question that the best vlogging camera is usually costly, and out of budget for many people, and it is something to think about because the better the hardware is, the more expensive the camera is.

However, the Panasonic Lumix G7 tried to beat that idea and offer something great and a solid contender against any entry-level DSLR in the market.

The Lumix G7 is a part of Panasonic’s mid-range lineup of G series cameras, however, with some advanced, and helpful videos feature that it has taken from the higher end models like GH4. For starters, the G7 is one of the few mid-range cameras to offer high-quality 4K video recording out of the box.

The G7 also ditches the traditional viewfinder in favor of an electronic viewfinder, and while purists may turn away by this feature, I am pleased to point it out that the EVF works wonderfully well in all the situations and won’t be letting you down.

The Panasonic LUMIX G7 comes with several different accessory options which include an interchangeable lens. If you are looking for a wide-angle lens for Panasonic Lumix G7, then I would suggest you choose from a single lens or dual lenses.

Now from the vlogging point of view:

The G7 is an excellent camera for vlogging, it records at high-resolution with the option to switch between them as well, and the 16-megapixel sensor works rather well in many other conditions as well.

Additionally, the MFT sensor is brilliant, but, the amount of depth of field provided by the sensor is somewhat lower as compared to other cameras, but since you have to look close, it is not precisely that big of an issue.

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If you are willing to spend your entire budget and want to spend money on a camera that is as expensive as it is good, don’t worry, Canon is got you covered.

We are already aware of how the EOS series is one of the top ones, and taking charge is the Canon EOS 80D.

The EOS 80D can be considered the master of all trades since it takes the best features from the previous cameras, and add an even higher amount of new features.

This camera works even better and lets you shoot some stunning videos, and thanks to the large sensor, and a higher megapixel count, there is quite a lot of detail involved in the videos. Giving the vloggers something to rave on.

The EOS 80D is undoubtedly a substantial upgrade over the 70D, all thanks to fantastic ergonomics, heaps of features, and a ton of controls making it an enthusiast grade camera both for vloggers, and professional photographers.

Not all is as perfect though, there are some minor hiccups with the 80D, but the good thing is that they do not break the deal. Instead of using the full format, the camera opts for the APS-C format, something that is slightly lesser, but still very effective.

The autofocus system is somewhat complicated and may require time to master, but I believe this is more of a subjective issue, then a primary objective problem that can hinder the overall experience of shooting videos for your vlog or your YouTube channel, or even taking pictures.

If you think that the Canon 80D is a full frame camera, then I must clarify that it’s not because a full-frame camera would have a sensor 36 x 24 mm. Canon EOS 80D has an APS-C (22.5 x 15 mm) sensor.

But here’s the kicker:

Famous fashion and beauty vlogger Aspyn Ovard use this camera for shooting her vlogs.

Casey Neistat stated in one of his vlogs that he has bought around ELEVEN Canon EOS 80D’s and it is now his primary vlogging camera.

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For years, Canon’s EOS series has been on the top of their food chain, and there are some pretty convincing reasons behind that. This lineup has some of the most excellent DSLRs you can buy.

Before we go any further, it is important to tell you that you can use a DSLR as a vlogging camera with great ease as many famous vloggers are doing the same.

Despite some of the bulkier models in the market, it is very doable and can result in some stunning footage.

The camera we have on our table is the Canon EOS 70D, it is an upgraded version of the highly praised EOS 60D, and has some notable improvements over the younger sibling.

However, it would be unfair if we do not mention the negatives of Canon EOS 70D.

When compared with the 60D:

The 70D has a larger screen, a higher amount of single-action buttons, a passive LCD screen, as well as command dial, and rear-wheel that allows direct access to exposure settings, making things a lot easier.

Why do Professional YouTubers love the EOS 70D?

The EOS 70D is also faster than the 60D as well as 700D. A large number of things make the Canon EOS 70D an excellent camera for vlogging. The autofocus is one of the best we have seen, and the camera is fast enough to allow proper control and a great experience. The great thing of Canon 70D is the Live View feature which allows vlogging with more stability and accuracy.

Some other famous professional vloggers that use EOS 70D are Aspyn Ovard, Bethany Mota, and Kian Lawley.

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I have carefully reviewed almost all the cameras on the list, but it is not over yet.

The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is one of the high-end cameras from Panasonic, and it is also perfect for vlogging as it offers the ability to shoot stunning high-quality 4K videos. The camera also comes with an extensive set of features to boot.

Starting right out of the box, I put this camera up for a test and decided to do some vlogging, and good lord, it was astounding. Even though I started shooting at different resolutions beginning from full HD that happens to be more common than 4K for many people.

Star outdoor YouTuber Levi Allen Leftcoast and Casey Neistat uses and loves Lumix GH5.

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Canon’s dedication to its loyal customers and the camera industry is nothing short of admirable; the company has released some of the most excellent cameras and doesn’t show any sign of stopping.

The Canon EOS Rebel T6i/EOS 750D is an excellent example of Canon’s vision.

You can see the Canon Rebel T6i as a mid-range camera, but since it is from the EOS series, several features make it stand out.

For the purists, the Rebel T6i also comes with a dial that offers you perfect control on how you want to use the camera, and take pictures.

I also like the fact that Canon is finally moving towards the proper use of technology by implementing Wi-Fi as well as NFC into the camera. Sharing photos and videos, as well as uploading them, or transferring them has become a lot easier than it used to be before.

Upon testing the T6i for its video capability, I realized that the T6i does not shoot videos at resolutions higher than 1080p, and while it was a disappointment at the start, it came to my realization that for vlogging purposes, this is an excellent and optimal resolution.

The details were there, and there was plenty of sharpness too, and even if you want to do photography, the camera is going to help you with that as it performed flawlessly on my trip around the city.

Some concerns otherwise fantastic Canon T6i camera:

During my testing, I realized that the viewfinder does not cover the entire screen it provides around 95 percent of coverage. It is nothing deal-breaking, but I should be mentioning it. I also noticed how the camera is in dire need of a quicker way of setting an autofocus point.

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When it comes to action cameras, and cameras that are mainly for vlogging, GoPro has led the charge for as long as I can remember.

Their cameras are impressively small, but at the same time, have some of the best hardware you can find on a camera.

Even though Hero 5’s marketing team markets it as an action camera, it should not come as a surprise that it serves well to people who want to make vlogs using the camera.

You can also stream live video from your GoPro to top social media platforms like Facebook.

GoPro Hero5 Black Specs

Are GoPro HERO5 Cameras Waterproof Without a Housing?

It is impressively small, as well as rugged, and without the waterproof housing, it can stay in 10-meters (33 feet) deep water with great ease. Some vloggers record videos even underwater so having a waterproof body is a plus.

The GoPro Hero 5 packs a plethora of functions that I think are amazing as the features make it an excellent camera for still photography as well. GoPro has also worked on the design to make it smaller, better looking, and even more rugged.

These shortcomings do not hold a candle to the greatness of the GoPro Hero 5, and there are no issues in usability.

The GoPro Hero 5 Black is undoubtedly one of the best vlogging cameras that is going to serve you well regardless of the type of vlogging that you intend to do.

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Finally, we are looking at the last camera in the list, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300, if you feel that the name certainly feels tricky, don’t worry, the sentiments are quite similar.

However, let’s not let them come in the way of the actual review because that would be unfair.

The Lumix DMC-FZ300 is bridging the gap between some cameras released by Panasonic. However, the good thing is that it still doesn’t let the others overshadow it in any way.

Lumix DMC-FZ300 offers excellent video quality, meaning that bloggers are going to rejoice.

The Lumix DMC-FZ300 also offers a plethora of shooting options that you are going to use.

Although upon testing several cameras throughout my tenure has allowed me to use some of the complex ones as well, I still can’t shake the fear of picking up the camera only to realize that the navigation is going to be a bit tricky.

Such is the case with the DMC-FZ300, especially if you are comfortable with leaving everything on auto, and just going by your business, and not paying attention to other details. Luckily, it is rather easy to master, so you should not face any issues whatsoever.

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Nikon has been Canon’s biggest competitor for a long, long time.

Both companies have been in a rivalry, and we have seen them release some impressive cameras. However, I am not here to compare them both as this is not what the review is on. The Nikon COOLPIX L840 is sitting at the table.

The L840 is not much different when it comes to the L830 from the previous year. However, I do know that the majority of upgrades it has received are under the hood, and honestly, the looks did not need much work, to begin with.

The vloggers continuously have to exchange files and videos, so this feature is excellent. NFC blending is additionally present, making it a doddle to set up a remote association with an NFC-empowered savvy gadget.

Now considering how I am reviewing it as a camera whose primary use is going to be vlogging, picture quality did not matter much, but if you want to know, it is a pretty decent camera that is disguised as a DSLR but has a smaller sensor. The pictures come out clear, and well detailed, but not of the best quality.

The video is a different story; the L840 is by no means an enthusiast-grade camera, it shoots videos at HD and full HD, and if your primary concern with this camera is vlogging, then I cannot say if it is going to do you any wrong. Upon testing the camera with some vlogging, the results came out promising.

The video had enough detail as well as clarity to quickly make this one of the best vlogging cameras, and the best thing is that you do not have to go into much depth to get good videos out of the camera. I believe the best camera is the one that can be used right out of the box, and L840 does the job.

In simpler words, the Nikon Coolpix L840 may be the most candid camera to use on the list; it is evident enough that its primary purpose is vlogging, and works well in that. However, it is not for everyone since the use case scenario revolves mainly around the vlogging, and I am okay with it.

While there is a lack of some of the additional features we have come to see, it gives back by being priced handsomely, as well as by providing some great footage in a majority of lighting scenarios with great ease, and no hiccups.

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Vlogging Cameras – The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Although anyone can start a vlogging career just by picking up a camera, shooting videos, editing them, and then uploading them, it is essential to know that if you want your audience to be engaged and interested, you should buy a camera that can represent you like that.

Yes, quality content and sound editing also play a huge part, but let’s not forget that a device on which you are going to be shooting all the videos is also an essential factor to take into account when you are planning on starting your vlogging career.

After all, you cannot make videos using your laptop’s webcam, and call it vlogging; beauty attracts the audience, and in the continually evolving vlogging scenario.

People want vlogs that look amazing and are edited that way as well; this is the main reason why buying a good vlogging camera is so important.

Sure, it may have been different a decade ago, but things have changed drastically, and if you do not have the proper equipment, you are going to be able to please the spectators that quickly.

We are not asking you to splurge all your money, just enough to buy a good vlogging camera.

If you are searching the market for the best vlogging camera, it is going to present you with many choices. While having options is a good thing, it can also end up being overwhelming if you have not had the experience of buying a vlogging camera before.

If I am, to be honest, vlogging cameras are almost the same as your standard point and shoot, DSLR, or an action camera. The only exception here is that the vlogging cameras heavily rely on just how good they are at shooting videos.

If you are planning on starting your vlogging career, and don’t know where to start, this essential buying guide is going to help you make the most out of your time and money. The guide tells about the more important thing you should look for in a good vlogging camera.

Let’s see.

Essential Features to look for in Vlogging Cameras

 1.  Video Quality

Considering how you are going to be shooting vlogs with the entirety of time spent with the camera you are about to buy, you need to make sure that the video quality is the most important thing you consider when purchasing a vlogging camera.

You must also remember that just because a camera has a higher megapixel count does not mean that the video is even going to look fantastic.

Several different factors make a vlogging camera ample in the shooting department like:

So, it is only fair that whatever vlogging camera you buy has excellent video quality because you are going to be shooting videos with your camera.

The standard resolution is 1080p. However, several vlogging cameras on the market shoot at 4K too, the vital thing you should know here is that 4K means a larger size of the video, but it also means better video quality.

 2.  Weight of the Camera

It is a universal statement that the best camera is the one that you possess, and keeping that in mind, if a camera is not portable enough to carry around comfortably, then there’s no point in buying it. The DSLRs are usually bigger than other cameras due to the hardware that goes into them.

Mirrorless cameras are smaller since there’s no real mirror present in them, and the point and shoot cameras are even smaller and more comfortable to carry. With all that said, I would personally suggest you buy a point and shoot since most of them are good enough to shoot 1080p videos without losing the quality.

Mirrorless cameras are expensive, but if you can afford them, then they also make up a fantastic option and that is why we have included the Panasonic Lumix G7 in our top 10 which is also a mirrorless camera, offering 4K (Ultra-High-Definition) video recording.

Lastly, if you are okay with carrying a DSLR around with you whenever you are on the move, you can also invest in a DSLR that is going to cost you less than the mirrorless camera comparatively.

If you are interested in DSLRs then you take a look at some of the best DSLR cameras of 2021.

 3.  Essential Features

Another important thing that you need to consider while buying a vlogging camera is some features that you are going to be aiming at.

Generally, the higher you pay, the more amount of features you get, but what you need to know is whether or not you are going to be using all the features there are.

 3.1  OIS (Optical Image Stabilization)

From my personal experience with vlogging cameras and cameras in general, I can tell that OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) is known as one of the most important features that you should look for in a vlogging camera. Having this feature drastically improves the low light performance, and reduces blur as well.

The PowerShot G7 X II has “Double Sensing IS”, which deploy information from the picture sensor to diminish obscure caused by camera shake.

 3.2  Manual Controls

Another important characteristic that you need to look for in a vlogging camera is manual controls. However, this feature is more important on the image side of things since.

Manual mode is one of the main settings on your camera, and it lets you manually control shutter speed, aperture, and ISO.

Still, it is nice to have manual controls in a vlogging camera; that way; it becomes multi-purpose for you.

 3.3  EVF (Electronic Viewfinder)

A good EVF (electronic viewfinder) is also critical if you are buying a vlogging camera, and considering how it has become a pervasive feature to have, just make sure that viewfinder is big enough, and offers an excellent resolution that can reflect the real quality of your videos.

For instance, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 comes with a big dazzling electronic viewfinder (EVF), allowing you to see the dynamic colors.

 3.4  Weather-Resistant Body

Weather-resistant body is another important feature that you should be looking for, this is going to ensure that if you want to take your vlogging camera out on the trip, it serves you well, and even if it starts pouring, the camera’s hardware does not get damaged.

Cameras like GoPro Hero 5 already have weather resistant/waterproof bodies, but it is essential to keep in mind that not all cameras come with this feature.

 3.5  Internal Microphone

Last but not the least, I prefer if my vlogging camera comes with an internal microphone, that way, at least I am not going to have to carry an external microphone with me everywhere I go.

You will be astonished to know that audio quality is more important than video.

Cameras like GoPro Hero are often equipped with multiple microphones, making it ideal for vlogging.

The truth is that sound quality is more important for video than most folks realize, so ideally you should try to choose a vlogging camera that has a microphone port so that you can plug in external microphones for better sound quality.

Almost all compact digital cameras do not come with a microphone port because it’s considered as a premium feature.

If you use a good external microphone, it can dramatically enhance your vlogs because it will be able to produce far better sound quality.

 4.  Lens

Many people tell me how I do not need a good lens for vlogging because it is just a video, and people are going to be too busy paying attention to the detail. I do not believe it works like that; if you have seen some of the vlogs made by really talented bloggers, video quality is consistent.

Now, this is where a good lens comes in, while most vlogging cameras have lenses already if you want to make sure that you, as a vlogger, are the subject of the entire video, then investing in a telephoto lens is a good idea.

The telephoto lens adds optical zoom, blurring out the remaining background.

You can check out How a telephoto lens works.

 5.  Your Own Needs

Since the camera is going to be used by you, it is imperative for you to reflect upon your personal needs. Sure, everything that I have talked so far does add up to a good buying experience, but if you are not shedding any light on your own needs, then we cannot be sure how the experience is going to be.

If by any chance, a vlogging camera does not meet your requirements or satisfy your personal needs, there’s no reason to buy that because the videos it is going to give you is not going to be enough. I would personally put all the features aside first, and then look at just how decent the vlogging camera is.

In case you think we missed a good vlogging camera, let us know.

Related Posts:

• 2021 Best Canon Vlogging Cameras
• 2021 Best Sony Vlogging Cameras