YouTube is gradually taking over as the one place where people search for entertaining, educative, or any other kind of content.
In that regard, you may want to shoot YouTube videos if you have any content to offer the world.
While a smartphone will be enough to record simple videos for beginners, you may want to get the best camera for YouTube videos if you want to put out quality footage.
The camera should possess a few crucial features including:
- Portability
- Durability
- Weatherproof ability
Stay put if you want to know how to choose the perfect camera.
Top-Rated Cameras for Youtubers: Comparison Table
If you’re always looking to deliver high-quality video footage to your fans, here are some awesome cameras worth considering. This is a quick table, keep scrolling for the detailed reviews.
| Ranking | Product Name | Screen Size | Optical Zoom |
| 1 | Sony 20. 1 MP Premium RX100 | 3 inches | 2.9x |
| 2 | Canon Mark II 7D EOS SLR Digital Camera | 3 inches | 7.5x |
| 3 | Logitech 1080P C930e HD Video Webcam | 3 inches | 100 x |
| 4 | GoPro Hero 7 Black | – | 30x |
| 5 | Logitech Pro Stream C922x Webcam Camera | – | – |
| 6 | Nikon B500 COOLPIX Digital Camera | 3 inches | 40x |
| 7 | Nikon CMOS 24.2 MP D3300 Digital SLR | 3 inches | 3x |
| 8 | Panasonic ZS50 Lumix Camera | – | – |
| 9 | Canon Video HF R800 VIXIA 1960C002 Camcorder | 3 inches | 32x |
| 10 | Panasonic G47KS Lumix 4K Mirrorless Camera | 3 inches | 3x |
| 11 | Sony High Zoom DSCX80/B | 3 inches | 30x |
| 12 | Sony 16-50mm mirrorless a5100 Digital Camera | 3 inches | 3x |
1. Sony 20. 1 MP Premium RX100 Compact Digital Camera
Top on our list is the Sony 20. 1 MP Premium RX100 Compact Digital Camera. This pocket-sized device weighs only 10 ounces making it very light and easy to carry. If you are on a budget, this might be a great option since it is moderately priced.
Product Description
Although this camera is a relatively older model since it was released in 2014, it is has been equipped with great features that make it an excellent YouTube video Camera. This unit contains a Bionx X processing engine that produces high-quality HD Videos and also enables easy sensitivity adjustment.
On top of that, it is fitted with a 20.2 MP high-resolution sensor that helps in achieving sharp and clear videos. With a 10fps this device is extremely fast and ideal for continuous shooting.
Other Features and Benefits
Although it is pockets sized, the camera features a bigger sensor and a faster lens than most cameras with a similar size. Another notable feature is that it performs incredibly well in low light situations.
Besides that, this device has wireless connectivity with the NFC/Wi-Fi connection, which allows you to send videos to smartphones and tablets.
On top of that, the Sony RX100 has a viewfinder that helps you monitor the quality of videos and images in advance.
Pros
- Produces HD Videos
- Medium range priced
- Wireless connectivity
- Easily portable
Cons
- No touchscreen
2. Canon Mark II 7D EOS SLR Digital Camera
The Canon Mark II 7D EOS SLR Digital Camera is an upgraded version of the EOS 7D model. This professional-level unit has an APS-C sensor that helps you to achieve clear and smooth images and videos.
Product Description
The Canon Mark II has 10 fps making it one of the fastest DSLR cameras in the market today. It features multiple connectivity features such as audio out, USB 3.0, inbuilt GPS, remote control, flash sync, and audio in.
In addition to that, it has two SD card slots that safely store all your data. Though this model is quite pricy, it has high-quality video and images that make it ideal for making YouTube videos. Besides that, it has a Dual Pixel CMOS AF that further offers quality video shooting.
Other Features and Benefits
Another notable feature is that this unit has Live View autofocus that helps to shoot quality videos even in low light conditions. Then there is there are the continuous shooting capability and adjustable autofocus that makes it suitable for shooting nature and fast action videos such as dancing or exercise videos.
The camera also has extensive lens access. The only downside is that this unit lacks built-in Wi-Fi connectivity.
Pros
- Very fast
- Many connectivity features
- Professional level camera
- Adjustable autofocus
Cons
- Pricy
3. Logitech 1080P C930e HD Video Webcam
Another great option for high-quality YouTube Videos is the Logitech 1080P C930e HD Video Webcam. This well-priced webcam delivers a great art of technology to YouTube videos. With a 90-degree field view, this model is also an excellent option for taking group webcams.
Product Description
Weighing only 5.6 ounces, this unit is lightweight and easy to carry around. Though it has plastic construction, this webcam is sturdily built for durability. On top of that, it has a solid lens cove. Another great feature is that this device has a great noise cancellation system.
This feature helps you to achieve high-quality audio, which is quite important for YouTube videos.
Other Features and Benefits
The webcam has 1080 HD video recording, which means you can take extremely sharp videos and photos. In addition, it features 30fps, which is very fast speed. You can easily mount it on you’re a monitor or a laptop using the tripod ready universal clip.
Pros
- Great noise cancellation
- Competitively priced
- Professional still photos and quality videos
- Wide view for group webcams
Cons
- Poor color quality
4. GoPro Hero 7 Black
If you are on a budget, the GoPro 7 Hero Black might be a great option. The unit is designed with several impressive features that make it ideal for YouTube Photography. This brief review should give you a better understanding of the camera.
Product Description
It has a hyper smooth feature that offers high-quality videos that are not shaky even when recording while in motion. As a result, this device is great when filming adventurous, traveling. Water sports, or even horse riding videos.
On top of that, the hyper smooth quality allows you to shoot without a stabilizer. With this camera, you can get 12mp still images and 4k 60fps videos. Also worth noting is that the GoPro 7 has a touchscreen that is super easy to operate.
Other Features and Benefits
One of the most outstanding things about this model is that it has an app inside that provides live streaming capabilities to YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook without needing a third party soft-ware. That said, videos shared on these social media platforms are limited to only 720P resolution.
Moreover, the GoPro 7 Hero Black has a great voice control system. More importantly, this unit is waterproof and is perfect for water sports and many more adventures.
Pros
- Live streaming enabled
- Quite affordable
- easy to operate touchscreen
- Has a video stabilization
Cons
- Cheap battery
5. Logitech Pro Stream C922x Webcam Camera
The Logitech Pro Stream C922x Webcam Camera is specifically optimized and designed for recording high-quality professional videos. To get a better understanding of the webcam, check out the review below.
Product Description
The camera can stream in 720p and 60fps for quality and sharp videos. On top of that, it operates in low lighting situations, which make it ideal when shooting without a lighting setup. Besides that, it has a background replacement feature.
Other Features and Benefits
Besides that, the underside has a tripod hinge, which makes it easy to install it on a camera stand when using it on a desk. What’s more, this device is compatible with most chat services such as Skype and Google hangouts.
Pros
- Great video quality
- Background replacement feature
- Fantastic low-light correction
- Affordable
Cons
- Limited audio quality
6. Nikon B500 COOLPIX Digital Camera
Moving forward, we have the Nikon B500 COOLPIX Digital Camera. Though it comes at a very affordable price, it is equipped with incredible features that beat some of the pricy Vlogging cameras in the market today.
Product Description
To begin with, this device has a great feel in your hands from shooting 1080 Full HD videos with the flip-up LCD to zooming in using the great telephoto NIKKOR lens.
You can easily connect this digital camera to compatible smartphones and tablets via the Bluetooth low energy technology for remote camera control and instant video and camera sharing.
Other Features and Benefits
It has lens-shrift reduction that helps to keeps your shots steady at long distances. It is fitted with 16-megapixel illuminated CMOS sensors that capture sharp, clear, and precise videos and images. Then there is the tilted LCD display that allows you to monitor video recording and compose your shots.
Pros
- Quality Full HD Videos
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity are available
- Very fast
- Great audio recorder
Cons
- A bit heavy
7. Nikon CMOS 24.2 MP D3300 Digital SLR
The other camera to earn a spot on this list is the Nikon CMOS 24.2 MP D3300 Digital SLR. With a weight of 0.95 pounds, this camera is small, compact, and lightweight. This makes it very portable and a great option for traveling. Further, it has a simple design and is pocket-friendly.
Product Description
Although the body has plastic construction, it is solidly built for durability. In the category of DSLR cameras, this unit has one of the highest resolutions and best sensors for filming excellent high-quality videos. More importantly, it has great battery life.
Other Features and Benefits
The Nikon CMOS 24.2 MP D3300 Digital SLR is fitted with great autofocus for precise, smooth, and clear videos and images. On top of that, though this camera comes with a very detailed menu, it is super easy to operate both for videography and still photography.
What’s more, it has an optical viewfinder of around 95% coverage, five fps that make it fast, and also fn 11-point AF mechanism for your convenience. One thing we didn’t like about this device is that it has no built-in Wi-Fi, and the LCD screen isn’t tillable.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Travel-friendly
- Easy to operate
- High resolution
Cons
- No inbuilt Wi-Fi system
8. Panasonic ZS50 Lumix Camera
Another budget-friendly option is the Panasonic ZS50 Lumix Camera. This device is quite versatile and is fitted with impressive features, which make it a great camera for Vlogging. To know more about the Panasonic ZS500 check out the review below.
Product Description
The camera has a fully manual mode that allows you to set all the settings manually. Also worth noting is that this camera shoots Full HD Videos at a 1080p, which ensures you take amazing vlogs from multiple angles. With 10fps, this camera allows you to record even the faster action in crystal clear manner.
Other Features and Benefits
The Panasonic ZS50 Lumix Camera has improved low-light sensitivity for better and enhanced and enhanced sharpness even with no flash. You will also find an inbuilt viewfinder that helps to eliminate frown on sunny weather.
A sharp zoom option of up to 60 is featured in this Vlogging camera to enable you to zoom in and out of subjects you like without shakiness or blurriness. There is also the lens mounted control ring that offers easier control and allows you to focus on the shutter operation.
Pros
- Quality Full HD videos
- Full manual mode
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Comes at an affordable price
Cons
- Battery drains fast
9. Canon Video HF R800 VIXIA 1960C002 Camcorder
Another great option for filming YouTube videos is the Canon Video HF R800 VIXIA 1960C002 Camcorder. One of the most outstanding features about this camcorder is that it has an LCD display that has touch controls and rotates for easier navigation.
Product Description
It records up to 1080p, which means you will get high-quality definition images. Then there is the 57x advanced zoom that allows you to create stunning videos. This feature allows the device to go from 35mm to 1835mm when using manual mode.
Other Features and Benefits
The super range image stabilizer allows you can comfortably shoot handheld without having to worry about blurred images. Besides that, the Digic image processor helps you to shoot sharp images even in low light conditions.
The Canon Video HF R800 VIXIA 1960C002 Camcorder records all the videos directly into the removable SD card. This allows you to share videos instantly. On top of that, you can apply cool effects with this unit, such as fast and slow motion.
Pros
- Image stabilizer feature
- Easy to operate
- Ideal for low light conditions
- Huge image sensor
Cons
- Low autofocus
Another related post: 7 Best Video Camera for Green Screen
10. Panasonic G47KS Lumix 4K Mirrorless Camera
The Panasonic G47KS Lumix 4K Mirrorless Camera has a DSLR design thought it’s a mirrorless camera. Just like the most mirrorless camera, it is quite small, but it a very powerful camera. To learn more about it, read on!
Product Description
Although this camera is reasonably priced, it is more pricy than budget-friendly options. It weighs 410 grams, which makes it lightweight easily portable. On top of that, this device has 4K video and 8fps for fast ad superb shooting of explicit videos.
It lacks NFC, but the good thing is that it features built-in Wi-Fi connectivity.
Other Features and Benefits
To start with, the Panasonic G47KS Lumix 4K Mirrorless Camera is equipped with an electronic viewfinder that offers you a preview of images and videos for monitoring your work quality. It also has a fully articulated LCD touchscreen that is easy to operate.
What’s more, with this camera you can film clear and quality videos since it responds well even in low light situations. Another notable feature is that this unit has fast and accurate autofocus. The only downside is that it lacks an optical viewfinder since it is mirrorless. This camera’s features make it ideal for beginners who want to start making YouTube videos.
Pros
- A 4K video graphy unit
- Superb video quality
- Touchscreen operated
- Lightweight and easily portable
Cons
- Has a 30-minute continuous filming limit
11. Sony High Zoom DSCX80/B Point and Shoot Camera
The Sony High Zoom DSCX80/B Point and Shoot Camera is a lightweight, small, and compact camera that has a flip screen and high zoom point. The Flip screen feature is a great feature for Vlogging. The review below should give a better understanding of the camera.
Product Description
This device takes quality Full HD videos with 50mps. AVHD, MP4, and XAVC formats allow you to film smoothly with reduced noise compression even when filming in a shaky situation. This unit supports defined, close up, and beautiful images, even in low light conditions.
Other Features and Benefits
The multi-angle and extra-fine LCD display can rotate up to 180 degrees for your convenience. More importantly, you can easily customize the setting like manual focusing ad zooming, which makes it easy to control your filming experience.
The Advanced Frame Analysis Technology supports the 5-axis image stabilization system from Sony. Sharing videos and images have never been easier; with the inbuilt Wi-Fi connectivity, you can take images and share them instantly.
Pros
- Great image stabilization
- Tilt-able flash
- NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Customizable functions
Cons
- No touchscreen feature
12. Sony 16-50mm mirrorless a5100 Digital Camera
The last item on this list is the Sony 16-50mm Mirrorless a5100 Digital Camera. It is quite affordable and is also a good purchase as a first mirrorless camera. At 0.62 pounds, it is small and lightweight and yet very powerful.
Product Description
The 1080/60 resolution offers relatively great images. In addition, it is an APS-C 24MP sensor for high quality and sharp images. On top of that, this is equipped with a mirror flip screen that offers overall convenience when filming videos. In addition, it has a built-in Wi-Fi for photo and video sharing to your smartphone or tablet.
Other Features and Benefits
The Sony 16-50mm Mirrorless a5100 Digital Camera has an electronic viewfinder that helps to monitor the quality of videos and images before taking them. As if that is not enough, this unit features great image stabilization ability for providing quality videos using any lens.
What’s more, it has a 179 AF autofocus that saves you time in adjusting the focal point while taking quality videos and images. The camera’s Exmore CMOS sensor and Bionz X Processor makes it perfect for low light conditions. Overall this camera is great for Vlogging and YouTube.
Pros
- Great Viewfinder
- Reasonably priced
- Great image stabilization ability
- Inbuilt ANC and Wi-Fi
Cons
- Video filming has a continuous limit of 30 minutes
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best YouTubing Camera
As you select a camera to record your content, you want to consider several crucial factors including:
Camera Lens
All camera lenses come with aperture but a good lens needs to have a wide aperture. This allows more light into the lens making your footage brighter and clearer.
A wide aperture also works well to enhance the aesthetics of every video you record while also making it possible to blur the background of your videos.
Autofocus Ability
You are probably going to shoot your videos alone which means you will not always be behind your camera to see if it is focusing properly.
In respect to that, you want to get a camera with an autofocus system that will allow your camera to ensure that you stay in focus as you record yourself.
Sensor Size
It is important to consider the sensor size of a camera prior to purchasing. Bigger sensors allow in more light, which is crucial.
The kind of camera you pick also has a major effect on the sensor size. For instance, Camcorders usually have smaller lenses making them less effective under low lighting.
We would advise to go for a DSLR camera since these usually have bigger sensors, which you need to make your videos brighter.
Image Stabilization
Before you settle on a camera to shoot your YouTube videos, you want to find out if it comes with the image stabilization feature.
While this feature is not compulsory, it is important because it allows for quality recording even when the camera shakes.
No one enjoys watching blurry or shaky videos.
Battery Life
Depending on what you film, you may have to do it at hours at a time not forgetting that you sometimes have to re-take before you get the perfect video.
As such, you want to get a camera with a decent battery life. Ideally, you would want to get a camera that allows you to interchange batteries.
Alternatively, you can get a camera that can keep recording while plugged into a power outlet.
Wireless Connectivity
It is important to get a camera with in-built wireless abilities such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This way, it will be easier to share your content.
Audio Quality
Most people can put up with low quality videos, but we are yet to come across anyone who can stand poor sound.
To get quality sound, you want to get a camera with a microphone input. You may want to stay from compact cameras because most of them come without a microphone input.
It is important to consider getting a camera that can accept external microphone input because this will drastically enhance your videos because these generate better sound.
Tips for Setting up your Camera for YouTube Videos
The way you set up your camera can make or break your video. In respect to that, we have put together the following YouTube camera set up tips to help you create the perfect videos.
Use a Tripod
It is easy to end up with shaky footage if you are shooting on the move or using your hands to hold your camera.
Of course, nobody enjoys watching blurry or shaky videos so you may want to invest in a quality tripod to help you get clear stable footage.
Get a good Microphone
While most people are willing to compromise on the quality of videos they watch, no one will sit through a video with poor sound quality.
Because of this, you want to invest in a quality microphone that will deliver perfect audio.
Use a Plain Background
You need to be intentional about the background you use for your YouTube videos. A busy background looks messy and is often distracting hence making your videos look less professional.
The best and easiest way to make your videos appear professional is by using a plain colored background.
You can utilize backdrop paper, a bed sheet, or even a wall to do this. Keep your subject a few feet away from the background to prevent shadow casting.
Use Sufficient Light
Did you know that lighting determines the quality of a video? The more of it there is, the better a video looks.
As such, if you do not have access to enough natural lighting, you may want to invest in artificial lights. Poorly lit videos look amateurish and rough and we are sure you do not want that.
Frequently Asked Questions
We believe you have a few questions on this topic that you may want answered. We have tackled several below that can be of help.
Is GoPro a good vlogging camera?
First, any kind of camera can be used for vlogging but it depends on the results you want to achieve. We would not recommend GoPro cameras for shooting YouTube videos because they are not designed to capture sound well.
Can I vlog with my phone?
Yes, you can. Phones are lighter than cameras making them easy to carry around. The only thing you need to worry about here is the quality of footage but if you are using a quality android phone or an iPhone, you can easily record a quality video.
Best Choice
The Sony RX100 20. 1 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera is what, in our opinion, qualifies as the best camera for YouTube videos. It has a powerful 20.2 high-resolution sensor making it a sure bet for those who want quality. And not mention, it offers a 10FPS shooting system for exceptional sensor speeds.
Final Thoughts
The world is constantly thirsty for different kinds of content and because of that, there is always room for people to create different videos for people to consume.
Irrespective of your goals or skill, you should not have any trouble finding a great camera that can help you shoot content for YouTube with this guide at your disposal.