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The best vlogging cameras you can buy

Jul, 07, 2023 Hi-network.com

Today, many people catalog their daily lives and adventures through videos or vlogs rather than traditional blogs and journals. These often appear on websites, apps, or social media platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok.

While vlogging can be performed through your mobile device or standard camera, using a camera specifically designed for vlogging will take your content creation to the next level. We considered our staff's photography expertise and talked to creators to help you find the best vlogging cameras based on factors like video quality, battery life, weight, and price. 

's top pick for the best vlogging camera overall is the Insta360 X3 . Thisversatile device offers excellent frame rates and 360-degree video capture in a variety of creative modes, making it the perfect option to record yourself and every detail of your environment. Read on to find a list of other top-performing vlogging cameras, and how each one caters to a variety of use cases, budgets, and features. 

Also:The best cameras for beginners

The best vlogging cameras of October 2023

Insta360 X3

Best vlogging camera overall

Insta360/ Pros & Cons Pros
  • Excellent image stabilization
  • High megapixels
  • AI features and mode variety
Cons
  • There are learning curves to use at its full potential
More Details

Insta360 X3 tech specs: Megapixels: Up to 72MP (image capture)  Body weight: 0.39 pound  Two ultra-wide lenses  Video resolution: 5.7K  Frames per second: Up to 100fpsFeatures:360-degree shooting, water resistence

's top pick for vlogging cameras is the Insta360 X3. Insta360 has been growing in popularity as a vendor for action cameras in recent years, and you can see why: the company produces top-quality cameras at a relatively affordable price point. 

The Insta360 X3 includes different lens options for shooting wide-angle footage at 30fps or an extreme field-of-view (170 degrees). If you want to shoot yourself, a selfie option can capture footage at 60fps. Another bonus is the intuitive image stabilization on the Insta360 X3, which can be enabled to keep your footage level. 

Typically, footage can be recorded in 5.7K, but the robust sensor also allows you to capture time lapses in even higher quality. The camera's rugged case and water resistance also make it a great option for vlogging extreme sports and other adventures. 

You can purchase the standalone camera for$499 or as part of a kit, of which Insta360 offers many. These include car and motorcycle kits, selfie sticks, lens caps, tripods, and more. 

View now at Insta360

Sony ZV-1

Best vlogging camera for versatility

Sony/ Pros & Cons Pros
  • 21fps for continuous shooting
  • 44x digital zoom and 2.7x optical zoom
  • Great autofocus
Cons
  • Poor battery life
  • Subpar stabilization
More Details

Sony ZV-1 tech specs: Megapixels: 21MP  Body weight: 0.65 pound  Digital zoom: 44x  Video resolution: 4K  Frames per second: Up to 120fpsFeatures: Slow motion, time lapse, bokeh features

When spending your dollar on a vlogging camera, you should take into account all the other things you can use the camera for. Whether landscape photography, sports photography, or videography, versatility is key in the camera industry. With the capability to shoot up to 21fps continuously, this camera is for more than just video.

This camera features shutter speeds ranging from 30-1/32000 and a burst rate of 24fps to create incredible opportunities to capture moving objects. Like most other cameras on this list, this device features a 3-inch LCD touchscreen that's adjustable so you can see what you're filming. 

Mal Hellyer of Raw Mal Roams, a travel blog and photography venture, told the Sony ZV-1 had been a "game-changer" for capturing and sharing experiences in high quality.

"The fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen display is a blessing for us content creators, letting me get those unique angles I need for my shots," she says. "And let's not forget the autofocus -- this is probably one of my favorite features."

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DJI Pocket 2

Best value vlogging camera

DJI/ Pros & Cons Pros
  • Gimbal creates smooth movement
  • Lightweight
  • Impressive battery
Cons
  • Audio quality lacks
More Details

DJI Pocket 2 tech specs: Megapixels: 64MP  Body weight: 0.26 pound  Digital zoom:8x  Video resolution: 4K  Frames per second: Up to 60fps

The DJI Pocket 2 is a popular option for vlogging, and rightly so. When author Josh Slate first acquired one, he was shocked at how this small camera could capture better content than his iPhone. 

Weighing at just over a quarter of a pound, this$349 vlogging option is easily portable and can capture high-movement videos with excellent smoothness due to its three-axis gimbal. Along with the smooth continuity, your subject will be kept in the shot with ActiveTrack 3.0 technology. 

Also: The best camera accessories

Despite its small size, the DJI Pocket 2 can take up to 8x zoom photos on its 64MP camera. But this camera doesn't need you to zoom in to get the best shots. The combination of the upgraded 1/1.7-inch sensor and the 20mm f/1.8 lens creates a wide view to capture panoramic shots, large-group selfies, and amazing time-lapses.

"Now having put the DJI Pocket 2 through its paces, I can say it's impressive," says David Ciccarelli, the tech-savvy entrepreneur behind Voices.ai. 

He recently used the camera at a tech conference and was struck by how it kept up with his activity. "I was in constant motion, meeting people, exploring booths, and even giving a speech. The Pocket 2's stabilization feature worked a treat, capturing smooth footage while I moved around. The object tracking feature also proved useful, keeping me in focus as I was walking and talking."

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GoPro Hero 11 Black

Best vlogging camera for action

GoPro/ Pros & Cons Pros
  • Excellent video quality
  • High resolution
  • Improved battery life
Cons
  • Low light capture could be improved
  • Some reports of overheating
More Details

GoPro Hero 11 Black tech specs: Megapixels:27 megapixelsBody weight:4 poundsDigital zoom:2xVideo resolution:5.3KFrames per second:Up to 240fps

When you want a camera to keep up with your adventures, the GoPro Hero 11 Black is the best vlogging camera for you. 

It is even waterproof, so it can accompany you on those underwater expeditions. It is easy to live stream, and built-in HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization means your picture won't wobble even if you do. It's true that the Hero 11 isn't the latest model available, but for an affordable vlogging camera capable of handling your adventures, it's still a solid option.

ReviewGoPro Hero 11 Black

Stephanie Rytting of The Unknown Enthusiast, has used the GoPro Hero 11 before and calls it her "loyal companion." 

"On our family trip to Hawaii, I captured this stunning footage while zip-lining through the rainforest," she says, adding, "Thanks to GoPro's HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization, the footage looks just as smooth as if I'd been filming from a helicopter. The colors are so vibrant and rich; it feels like you're not just watching the scene but living it."

At 27 megapixels, this camera boasts CMOS photo sensor technology. With 5.3K Ultra HD video, you can capture fantastic images for 8x playback at any time on the integrated two-inch screen. There is USB connectivity and a micro SD card slot for storage.

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Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

Best vlogging camera for Canon users

Canon/ Pros & Cons Pros
  • Fantastic fps in RAW burst mode
  • Lightweight camera
  • 8.3fps continuous shooting
Cons
  • Lower megapixel than some cheaper competitors
More Details

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III tech specs: Megapixels: 20.1MP  Body weight: .67 pound  Digital zoom: 4.2x  Video resolution: 4K  Frames per second: Up to 120fps

The photography industry is very brand loyal. As a Canon user with a go-to Canon DSLR and lenses for professional photography, I will continue to buy these products until something incredible makes me swap.

Without an interchangeable lens, the listed weight of this camera is actually how much it weighs. Vlogging demands a steady hand, and there's no better way to ensure steadiness than with a lightweight camera. Along with being lightweight, it is also one of the smallest vlogging cameras of this quality.

This $750 camera has the ability to shoot 4K video at 30fps, along with the ability to live stream to YouTube directly from your camera. 

"I've seen a lot of vloggers fret over the lack of live streaming capabilities in compact cameras, but the G7 X Mark III surprised me here -- it has built-in YouTube live streaming, a first for a compact camera, which means you can now share your adventures in real time," says Nina Clapperton of She Knows SEO.

Plus, if you want a higher frame rate, you can achieve 120fps with 1080p resolution. If you decide you want to use this camera to get photos as well as video, this device can shoot at 30fps in RAW burst mode, making it a great option for street and candid photography.

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What is the best vlogging camera?

The best vlogging camera is the Insta360 X3. This versatile device offers excellent frame rates and 360-degree video capture in a variety of creative modes, making it the perfect option for capturing not only yourself, but also every detail of your environment.

While yes, it is the best option in our opinion, there are plenty of options out there including GoPro and Canon products. Here's a table to compare the key features and prices of these best vlogging cameras.

Vlogging camera

Cost

Megapixels

Video Resolution

Insta360 X3

$499

72 megapixels

5.7K

DJI Pocket 2

$349

64 megapixels

4K

Sony ZV-1

$750

21 megapixels

4K

GoPro Hero 11 Black

$400

27 megapixels

5.3K

Canon PowerShot G7 X MIII

$750

20.1 megapixels

4K

Which is the right vlogging camera for you?

Each person has a different use for every product out there. Consider this chart before making your purchase to find out which vlogging camera is best for you.

Choose this vlogging camera...

If you want...

Insta360 X3

A great action and vlogging camera with extremely high megapixels and 360-degree shooting capabilities. As our current favorite, you can't go wrong with its various capture modes and rugged case.

DJI Pocket 2

A pocket camera offering excellent functionality and quality at an affordable price point. This small camera can capture better content than many smartphones. 

Sony ZV-1

A camera for more than just video. It has the capability to shoot up to 21fps in continuous shooting and has additional features making it suitable for more than just vlogging.

GoPro Hero 11 Black

An extra-wide field of view with incredible 5.3K video and fantastic stabilization for those live-action shots. This one of the best options for vlogging your adventures. 

Canon PowerShot G7 X MIII

A Canon camera. This is one of the smallest vlogging cameras of this quality, and while relatively expensive, is a great option for vlogging and point-and-shoot shots.

How did we choose these vlogging cameras?

Here at , many of us are well-versed in photography and videography, and so we are acquainted with the best brands on the market. We know what to look for when deciding which camera to purchase. We also spoke with content creators on what they use for their social media or live-streaming platforms and considered their recommendations and advice. 

These are some of the considerations to make when choosing the best vlogging camera for your needs.

  • Video quality:After all, a camera is worthless if you cannot capture great video. Consider key features like the resolution and frames per second (fps) to get an idea of what kind of performance to expect. 

  • Battery life:When you live a life on the go, it's critical that your vlogging camera has the battery life to last through your adventures. Some vlogging cameras have external batteries that come included or you can purchase additional batteries to use with your camera.

  • Weight:The last thing you want is a heavy, cumbersome vlogging camera when you are on the go. Instead, compare the weight of each vlogging camera and consider how much travel you plan to do with it. That will help you find the right-sized vlogging camera for your specific needs. 

  • Price: The cost of vlogging cameras can vary widely based on the features you get with each camera. Overall, however, we found that the best vlogging cameras range from about$350 to$750, depending on the model you choose.  

What equipment do you need for vlogging?

To start vlogging, all you need is a camera and an SD card to store your footage. But, if you are serious about this form of content creation, you will likely need a tripod, editing software on your computer, an attachable microphone, as well as more minor accessories along the way, such as lighting and a microphone.

What should I look for when buying a vlogging camera?

Like all cameras, ensuring your camera's megapixel count is high is the best starting point. Additionally, you'll want a camera that can handle the lowest aperture and shoot in 4K, or at least 1080p.

Viveca Chow, an actor and influencer living in New York City, highlights a couple of areas to consider. "Auto-focus is very important to me," she says, adding "and whether there is a flip screen so I can see my framing in real time and not have to re-film anything." She also considers how the camera performs in low light. 

Before you buy, think about the type of vlogging you will be doing and where you will be located. These conditions can help you find the best vlogging camera for your needs.

Do you need a flip screen for vlogging?

In short, yes, if you want good-quality videos. Without a flip screen, you will be unable to see what your camera is pointing at. Without being able to see exactly what you're recording, you can end up inadvertently recording at the wrong angles and this could impact the overall quality of your footage.

Are there alternative vlogging cameras worth considering?

The phrase, "a photographer is only as good as his camera," couldn't be more false. While, yes, having an advanced, high-quality camera helps, it ultimately comes down to the person using the camera. While the five vlogging cameras included in this list are the top ones on the market, they aren't the only ones. Below we have included some alternatives you can also consider before making your purchase.

Best alternative for accessories

Canon EOS R50 content creator kit

If you want to buy a vlogging camera and all the accessories you need in one go, the Canon EOS R50 content creator kit is a great option.

View at Amazon

Best alternative for combining photography and vlogging

Fujifilm X-S10 mirrorless camera (body only)

If you need a top-notch compact camera with strong vlogging capabilities, the Fujifilm X-S10 mirrorless camera is for you.

View at Amazon

Best alternative for video frame rate

GoPro Hero10 Black

The GoPro Hero10 Black camera is durable and resistant to water, dirt, wind, and snow. You can save 17% off the typical RRP right now at Amazon.

View at Amazon

Best premium alternative

Panasonic Lumix GH6

Advanced users are sure to love this vlogging camera with advanced features and superior video quality, and the camera is a fantastic long-term investment.

View at Amazon

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