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If you don’t have time to read this article, then the best cheap camera for vlogging is the Sony ZV-1, while a close runner-up, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is the best cheap camera for YouTube. Trying to find the best cheap cameras for vlogging can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, thanks to the multitude of models that all claim to be the best cameras for vlogging, but which can’t always deliver. I wanted a cheap vlogging camera for my own use, but as other websites didn’t seem to really know what they were recommending, I had to find this on my own. I put countless hours into researching the best budget vlogging camera, and so that this isn’t wasted, have decided to put it here so you can cut down on your own research. I have decided that ‘cheap’ means that the vlog camera price is around $500, with options to stretch the budget to get a much higher specification model, or options with more limited specs for the budget conscious. So that this article isn’t packed full with every model of cameras for vloggers, I’ve chosen a few key criteria that I believe all cheap cameras for YouTube videos should possess:
Every one of the vlog cameras in this article meets these key criteria at a minimum. The full list of cameras reviewed is:
With a screen that flips out to the side so the the hotshoe is not impeded, and with an excellent internal mic, the Sony ZV-1 is not only the best cheap camera for vlogging, but a brilliant video camera for everyday use. It’s the only camera reviewed here that can record at up to 960 frames per second in (upscaled) 1080p quality, as well as standard 4K recording at 30 fps.The point and shoot-like size and weight of the ZV-1 makes it easily portable, and the Steady Shot mode genuinely helps when recording yourself walking and talking, so I have no trouble saying that this is the best camera for YouTube vlogging, and the best cheap vlogging camera 2022. The Best Beginner Vlog CameraCanon PowerShot G7X Mark IIBest Vlogging Camera for Beginners
The Canon G7X Mark II has been the camera of choice for many professional vloggers for a number of years, offering 1080p video recording, a useful zoom range and a body designed for usability. Now available at a relatively low price, and with modes from full automatic down to full manual, this is an ideal beginner vlog camera for those more limited in terms of budget, but who want to still make pro-level vlogs.For such a small point and shoot camera, you get something that rivals some mid-range DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, but in a much smaller, more portable package.
Comparison Table of the Best Cheap Vlogging Cameras in 2022Take a look at the comparison table of all of the best cheap vlogging cameras that are reviewed in this article, and then read the full reviews below. Camera Sensor Video Recording Lens (35mm equivalent) Check Price Sony ZV-1 1-inch, 20.1 Megapixels 4K / 30 fps; 24-70mm, f/1.8-2.8 Check Price Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II 1-inch, 20.1 Megapixels 1080p / 60 fps 24-100mm, f/1.8-2.8 Check Price Sony Alpha a6400 APS-C, 24.2 Megapixels 4K / 30 fps; N/A Check Price Panasonic Lumix ZS50 1/2.3-inch, 12.1 Megapixels 1080p / 60 fps 24-720mm, f/3.3-6.4 Check Price Sony DSCWX350 1/2.3-inch, 18.2 Megapixels 1080p / 60 fps 24-480mm, f/3.5-6.5 Check Price Panasonic Lumix G100 Four Thirds, 20.3 Megapixels 4K / 30 fps; 24-64mm, f/3.5-5.6 Check Price Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 1/2.3-inch, 20.0 Megapixels 720p / 25 fps 28-224mm, f/3.2-6.9 Check Price DJI Pocket 2 1/1.7-inch, 64 Megapixel 4K / 60 fps 20mm, f/1.8 Check Price DJI Osmo Action 1/2.3-inch, 12 Megapixels 4K / 60 fps; 6.82 mm, f/2.8 Check Price YouTube Vlogging Camcorder 8 Megapixel 1080p / 30 fps 8.15mm, f/3.0 Check Price What to Look For in the Best Affordable Vlogging CameraThere are a few features that I would consider to be absolutely key, to keep in mind when looking for the best affordable vlogging camera. Every one of the best cheap cameras for vlogging reviewed in this article meets this list of strict criteria:
I. Sensor SizeIn practice, it tends to be the case that the larger the sensor, the better the photo and video quality of the camera. Ideally, you would want a full frame sensor, as seen in the diagram below, but this is unrealistic for a cheap vlogging camera. Specifications:
This is one of the latest models of vlogging cameras from Sony, and is ideally suited to those wanting an all-rounder that can handle pretty much every environment and style of videography. It takes many of the elements that have made Sony’s more premium models so effective, and combines them into a smaller, lighter package to make the best cheap camera for vlogging. There are a number of particular features that stand out to make this the best budget camera for video, including:
Of course, the ZV-1 only has a 1 inch sensor, so low light performance is not on a par with the APS-C or full frame cameras, but is the best you can get for this price. If you intend to regularly shoot videos at night, then it may be worth trying to increase your budget to enable you to buy a mirrorless camera, like the Sony a6400 reviewed below. With the smaller sensor, the apparent focal length of the lens is 24mm – 70mm, which will cover all day-to-day use including street shooting and talking heads, with perhaps the only exception being wildlife photography. A massive bonus to the ZV-1 is the AF system, which is taken from the premium range of Sony A6000 cameras, and includes face tracking and real-time eye autofocus, which locks all almost instantly, and tracks subjects very competently. For those shooting product reviews, the Product Showcase mode will automatically pull focus to any objects placed in front of the camera, regardless if your face is visible in the frame. On other cameras, you would have to block your face in order for the focus to pull correctly to the object. You also get selective background de-focus to create some lovely bokeh, and the auto-exposure mode keeps your face bright and clear in the frame. The digital ND filter gives you the ability to shoot in bright light at wide apertures for pro-level video, and the internal mic is so good that you do not really even need an external mic for most uses. If you still need convincing, then consider that with the High Frame Rate mode, you can shoot upscaled 1080p footage at up to 960 fps, meaning this camera is well suited for creating slow-motion effects. Overall, if you want a strong, cheap camera with a flip screen for vlogging, you won’t go wrong with the Sony ZV-1, which will enable you to shoot high-quality YouTube videos for many years to come.
Note: If you are able to up your budget, then the Sony RX100 VII takes the best parts of the ZV-1 and adds excellent low light performance, and zoom range of 24 – 200mm, extra 4K recording modes and improved stills photography performance, albeit at a much higher price. 2. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II [The Best Beginner Vlog Camera]Best Beginner Vlogging Camera Specifications:
The Canon PowerShot G7X vlogging camera mark II has been favored by many of the top name vloggers for a number of years. Even though this is no longer the most current model of G7X available, it is still in my opinion the best beginner vlogging camera, and competes well with some mid-range DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, despite being a point and shoot camera. Available under $500, the G7X has an impressive 1 inch sensor paired with the Digic 7 image processor that can record video at 1080p and 60 fps, although is showing its age in not being able to record in 4K. This vlogging camera flip screen moves 180 degrees up, to flip over the top of the camera, or tilts 45 degrees down for easier viewing when holding the camera above your head, and is touch enabled for easier camera control, making this suitable as a beginner vlog camera. The zoom lens covers 24-100mm in full frame equivalent focal lengths, which is suitable for most kinds of vlogging, from talking heads to basic telephoto work, particularly when paired with the excellent optical image stabilization. The camera’s small size and light weight are a bonus for those vlogging in the field, and sets the G7X II up as the best cheap camera for YouTube. You get very good control of depth of field with the max aperture of f/1.8, which also means that you can keep the ISO low in dark conditions so videos are not too noisy. If you can live without 4K recording, and an external mic jack, then the G7X offers you a still outstanding camera for a very fair price.
Note: there is a more recent model of this YouTuber vlogging camera, in the Canon flip screen camera the Canon PowerShot G7X Mk III, which adds a mic jack, although has some overheating issues when recording in 4K, and has some potential issues with AF for video, hence why the Mark II model is recommended here.
3. Sony Alpha a6400 [Best Mirrorless Camera for Vlogging]Best Mirrorless Camera for Vlogging Specifications:
This Sony camera with flip screen is probably the best budget mirrorless camera with flip screen available, and is a cheaper version of the A6600, only really missing the in body image stabilization. You get a touchscreen that flips up by 180 degrees, plus a fantastic AF system, which was reused in the ZV-1, and allows for face tracking and eye tracking of your subjects. The ISO range of 100 – 102,400 is very strong on paper, but is tuned more for still photography than vlogging, and means that you will struggle to get really clean video at above ISO 1600. It is still generally better than the remaining cameras in this article that all have much smaller sensors, but falls behind full frame models. Unfortunately, all full frame cameras are pretty expensive, putting them out of reach for those on a budget. If you did have the money for the best low light camera, then take a look at the Sony A7C. There are a few benefits to the A6400 over the smaller point and shoot cameras, and these include the viewfinder for use in sunny conditions, the addition of Sony’s log video formats to record ungraded video for more control during later editing, and most importantly the ability to change lenses. Although needing to buy additional lenses does raise the cost of the camera, the utility that this provides makes videos so much easier to produce, and gets you real professional looking output. Ultimately, as the best mirrorless camera for vlogging, the Sony A6400 suits those looking for a top-end travel camera that doesn’t break the budget.
4. Panasonic Lumix ZS50 [The Best Camera for Travel Vlogging]Best Budget Camera for YouTube Specifications:
If you want an affordable vlogging camera, then the Lumiz ZS50 is an excellent choice, as it is the best vlogging camera under $300. The specs on paper look pretty similar to the Canon G7X, but you lose some performance and gain some additional features. The standout feature for me is the very strong super zoom lens, which covers full frame equivalent focal lengths from 24mm to 720mm. This is a massive 30x range and makes the camera suitable for every type of vlogging, from standard street filming to wildlife videography, and pretty much everything in-between. Combined with the small size and very low weight, the Panasonic ZS50 is for me the best camera for travel vlogging. It’s easy to carry and easy to use, and won’t let you down regardless of the kinds of vlogging you are interested in. As with the G7X, there is no ability to shoot in 4K, and there is no external mic input. You also do not get a flip screen, and the ZS50 has a relatively small image sensor, meaning that low light videos will be noisier, which is only exacerbated by the maximum aperture of f/3.3. Still, this does make a good, cheap vlogging camera, and the best budget camera for YouTube if you are serious about filming, but don’t have a lot of money to spend.
Note: if you want a similar cheap, high quality camera to consider, then the older brother of this model, the Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K, which is the best vlogging camera under 400 dollars, allows for 4K video recording and has a touch, flip screen. 5. Sony DSCWX350One of the Best Cameras for YouTube Specifications:
As a point and shoot vlogging camera, the Sony DSCWX350 really stands out as a travel camera, with its very light weight and super-small size when switched off with the lens retracted. The 20x optical zoom is powerful, and works well with the image stabilization for smooth footage. Sony are considered the top producers of AF systems and sensors that can produce decent videos even in low light, and they deliver with the DSCWX350. AF locks on quickly, and can track subjects when in video mode, and the highly regarded Bionz X image processor keeps noise low when shooting in dark environments. 4K video is unfortunately non-existent in this camera, although the 1080p recordings at 60 fps are smooth and look good, and just for that, this must rank as one of the best cameras for YouTube. If you value a small sized camera that can easily slip into your pocket, that you will barely notice when carrying around all day, and are willing to overlook the lack of 4K, then the Sony DSCWX350 may well be your best choice.
Note: if you want a longer zoom range, then take a look at the Sony DSCHX80, and for pretty much the same camera but with 4K recording, then look at the Sony DSC-HX99. 6. Panasonic Lumix G100Panasonic Vlogging Camera Specifications:
Aimed at those looking for a more professional vlogging experience, the Panasonic Lumix G100 has a wealth of more high-end features that justify its higher price tag. You get the ability to record 4K video at 30 fps, which has lovely colors and looks sharp and clear, but remember that the electronic image stabilization crops the frame to cover any camera shake. There is no optical stabilization on the included lens, but as a mirrorless four thirds camera, this Panasonic vlogging camera has a wide range of compatible lenses available that can be switched out. This gives you the ability to set your camera up for pretty much any and all types of vlogging, which is particularly useful if you think that your style is likely to change in the future. The internal microphones look fairly insubstantial for everyday use, but actually offers some very powerful audio tracking which is connected to the face tracking through the lens, and uses Nokia’s OZO processing for maximum quality. Any sound that is not coming from the person in frame is therefore reduced, meaning other conversations and external noise are pushed low in the mix. It may not have quite the sound quality of a dedicated mic with windshield, but there is a mic input and hotshoe to turn this into an excellent vlogging camera with mic. The rear 3-inch screen is touch enabled and fully articulated, which is a massive bonus for vlogging, and lets you control the camera, including setting AF points, with minimal prior knowledge. The AF system as a whole is less powerful than comparable Sony mirrorless cameras, but that is more of a strong reflection on the power of Sony’s AF system, than Panasonic’s. Overall, if you want a powerful vlogging camera with mic that handles itself very well in bright conditions and offers a stronger performance than most point and shoot cameras, then the Lumix G100 makes a very good choice.
7. Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 [The Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $150]Cheap Point and Shoot Camera Specifications:
The Canon PowerShot Elph 180 is one of the better cameras for beginner YouTubers thanks to its low price, putting it in the best vlogging cameras under $200 category, and for its simple to use interface. There is essentially no learning curve to those new to photography – just use one of the intuitive auto modes and press the shutter. This is essentially aimed at those looking for a basic camera, with a solid AF system and decent performance, that can take pictures and videos quickly and with no stress. There is no flip screen, so this is less suitable for filming yourself, but on the plus side, the colors always look good and accurate, as on most Canons, and you need to do very little editing to any videos once you get them back onto your computer. If you want a basic, light camera, then the Elph 180 is one of the best sellers currently available and is well-liked pretty much universally.
Note: for the same camera but with increased zoom and the ability to shoot video in 1080p, take a look at the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360. 8. DJI Pocket 2 [The Best Compact Vlogging Camera]Tiny Vlogging Camera Specifications:
The DJI Pocket 2 is one of the smallest and lightest cameras in this article, and fits naturally into your hands with well designed ergonomics and buttons, making it the best compact vlogging camera. On paper, the photo and video specs look very promising, with 64 megapixel stills and 4K footage recorded at up to 60 fps, but quality is of course limited by the sensor size of 1/1.7″, so don’t go expecting the quality levels you would expect on a high-end DSLR or mirrorless camera. Nonetheless, the sensor size compares favorably with competitors’ cameras, like the GoPros, which have 1/2.3″ sensors, so the Pocket 2 should not be written off for this. The front screen (which could also be a back screen as the lens can move around 180 degrees) is touch enabled, and makes the camera easy to control and to see what you are shooting. The four directional mics are a surprise on such a tiny vlogging camera, and they work very well for close up audio. For recording audio from a distance, then you can get a wireless mic from DJI that is compatible with the Pocket 2. The lens is at a fixed focal length of 20mm (in 35mm equivalent), which is good for shooting groups of people and for selfie shooting, and the 3-axis gimbal stabilization is a particularly strong feature, making videos super-smooth and not causing the frame to be cropped as with electronic stabilization. Overall, if you are looking for a pocket camera with excellent stabilization that can record high-quality 4K videos of people, then the DJI Pocket 2 might just be the best budget vlogging camera 2022 for you.
9. DJI Osmo Action [The Best GoPro for Vlogging]Best Waterproof Vlogging Camera Specifications:
Despite not being made by GoPro, I would consider the DJI Osmo Action the best GoPro for vlogging, as it hits the same high notes, but at a much cheaper price. You should see the Osmo Action as a direct competitor to the GoPro HERO8, as both have dual screens and 4K recording capabilities. Although an action camera like this is not suitable if you require a long zoom range, the Osmo is worth looking at for its very small size and weight, and the ability to use it in many different environments. It has a 1/2.3″ sensor that delivers photos at 12 megapixels, which is comparable to some of the other budget cameras in this article, but photo ability is not really what the Osmo is about – this camera is designed primarily for video. You can record 4K video at up to 60 fps, with smooth, sharp footage that is stabilized by an electronic system that works very well, and you can even record 1080p video at up to 240 fps, allowing for some serious slow motion effects. Being waterproof down to 36 feet, along with being very small and light, means that this mini vlogging camera is my pick for the best portable vlogging camera, and the best waterproof vlogging camera. If you intend to shoot video in tough environments or underwater, then the DJI Osmo Action is the camera for you.
Note: if you want a cheaper action camera, then the Crosstour CT9700 has many of the same features, but is available for less than $100.
10. YouTube Vlogging Camcorder [The Best Starter Camera for YouTube]Best Camera for Vlogging Under $100 Specifications:
If you want a basic video camera for vlogging, or a kids vlogging camera, then you won’t do much worse than to look for one of the generic models of camcorders which come in at under $100. After some research, I would personally recommend this one as the best starter camera for YouTube, rather than any of the other models, as it offers most of what you need in a small, cheap package. As a cheap beginner vlog camera, you get 1080p video recording at 30 fps, which is perfectly respectable, along with an included external mic and a flip screen. These are the basics that you would want in the best camcorder for vlogging, although you do not get much else. Although you lack any optical zoom and the ability to change focus, this basic vlogging camera is actually ideal for kids and those who are not sure whether YouTube is for them, and just want a cheap and simple to operate video camera, that has no major downsides.
Final Thoughts on the Best Cheap Vlogging Camera 2022There are many excellent budget vlogging cameras on the market today, ranging from mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras to fixed focal length point and shoot cameras, all of which have their own unique uses. Although you can get a camera for under $100 that does an OK job for vlogging, if you are serious about creating your own videos, it really pays to push your budget a little further and go for something more fully featured that will last you for a few years. Particularly if you are intending on creating a lot of videos, then the cost-per-video when comparing the cheapest to the best vlogging camera will be pretty minimal. Which camera is best for vlogging cheap?The Sony ZV-E10 follows in the footsteps of the Sony α6400, but it's designed more strictly for vlogging, and it's the best budget vlogging camera we've tested. It ditches the viewfinder and adds a fully articulated screen that makes it easier to monitor yourself, along with a headphone jack and redesigned handgrip.
What cheap camera do YouTubers use?6 Best Budget Cameras for YouTube. Canon Rebel T7i: Tried and True.. Canon 77D: For those with a larger budget.. Panasonic Lumix G7: If you want to go mirrorless.. GoPro HERO7: When portability takes priority.. The Logitech C922: Super cost-effective.. The Smartphone: The camera you already own.. What camera should I buy for YouTube vlogging?The Best Vlogging Cameras To Level Up Your Social Media Video. Best Vlogging Camera Overall: Sony ZV-1F.. Best Premium Vlogging Camera: Sony Alpha ZV-E10.. Best Action Vlogging Camera: Insta360 X3.. Best Handheld Vlogging Camera: DJI Pocket 2.. Best Compact Vlogging Camera: Sony ZV-1.. Which camera is best for YouTube videos with price?The best camera for YouTube available now. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III. The best Canon vlogging camera, and the best YouTube camera overall. ... . Sony ZV-E10. The best Sony vlogging camera is an excellent mid-range camera. ... . Sony ZV-1. ... . Nikon Z30. ... . Sony A6000. ... . Canon EOS R5. ... . GoPro Hero11 Black. ... . Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K.. |