Need the best cameras for YouTube videos? The very best DSLRs, compacts, mirrorless cameras, and more have been chosen.

The best camera for many people just starting out in YouTube video production is already in your pocket: your smartphone. It’s usually the most affordable choice, allowing you to save money for a quality microphone and lighting setup and giving you the freedom to start producing content right away.

While there are a few high-end premium cameras among the best vlogging cameras we’ve chosen for this buying guide, there are also inexpensive models made for beginners with limited budgets.

Best Cameras for Youtube: Tip Picks

• 1. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III: Best Overall
• 2. Sony ZV-E10: Best Sony Vlogging Camera
• 3. Canon EOS R5: Best High-End Choice
• 4. Sony ZV-1: Best Compact
• 5. Nikon Z30: Best New Vlogger Kid On The Block
• 6. Panasonic Lumix GH6: Best Camera For Youtube At The Higher End
• 7. Sony A6000: Best Cheap Vlogging Camera
• 8. GoPro Hero11 Black: Best Action Camera For Youtubers
• 9. Canon EOS 90D: Best Excellent Video Specs
• 10. DJI Action 2: Best GoPro Alternative
• 11. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K: Best Camera For Youtube Pros
• 12. Panasonic Lumix S5: Best Full-Frame Video Camera
• 13. Insta360 Go 2: Best For Proper Video
• 14. Razer Kiyo Pro: Fine Webcam For Streamers

You May Also Like: Best Cellular Trail Camera

Best Cameras for Youtube Reviews

1. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III: Best Overall

Reasons to Buy

• Fast and versatile lens
• Great flip-up touchscreen

Reasons to Avoid

• 10-minute 4K limit
• Middling battery life

It’s understandable why a lot of YouTubers give the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III high marks. It’s not the best camera overall, but it excels as a jack-of-all-trades, performing all the tasks that YouTubers require of it in a portable package.

This tiny camera can record HD video at up to 120 frames per second, which lets you create slow-motion effects, and 4K UHD video at 30p (with a 10-minute recording time limit). A 3.5mm microphone jack added to the Mark III version improves audio output. The G7X Mark III’s 24-100mm f/1.8-2.8 lens is fixed and cannot be changed, but this zoom range is suitable for the majority of YouTube uses, and the maximum aperture of f/1.8 is wide enough to make the G7X Mark III useful in low light.

The camera can livestream, broadcasting content with a clear HDMI out, which is another significant benefit for YouTubers. Although there are cameras with more sophisticated video capabilities, most content producers won’t require them. For the majority of uses, this is a great option. One of the best point-and-shoot cameras available is this one..

2. Sony ZV-E10: Best Sony Vlogging Camera

Reasons to Buy

• Exceptional video AF
• Solid built-in mic

Reasons to Avoid

• Rolling shutter in 4K
• Convoluted Sony menus

For a while, Sony had trouble finding a dedicated mid-range vlogging camera. Although the ZV-1 compact was nice, what YouTubers and vloggers really wanted was a mirrorless camera that would let them switch out lenses and be more adaptable in general. The Sony ZV-E10, an APS-C mirrorless camera that is dripping with video features, is here.

While Full HD can be stepped up to 120p for slow-motion footage, the 4K UHD quality and detail are excellent. Additionally, while investing in an external microphone is always preferable, the built-in microphones on the ZV-E10 perform admirably if you’re on a tight budget, in part because of the larger grille on top that enables higher-fidelity sound capture.

It’s not a perfect camera; when you try to pan in 4K, a noticeable rolling shutter effect happens, and the menus can be difficult, as is frequently the case with Sony cameras. But the Sony ZV-E10’s core functionality is actually very good, so these are only minor issues.

3. Canon EOS R5: Best High-End Choice

Reasons to Buy

• Crystal-clear 4K
• Best-in-class autofocus

Reasons to Avoid

• Maybe more than you need
• Infamous 8K recording limits

We advise thinking about the Canon EOS R5 if you have extra money to spare and want the latest in camera technology. Although it is a hybrid camera intended for both stills and video photographers, its video features are among the best in its field. The top specification is 8K at 30p, which is more than you need for YouTube, but this also gives you the option to crop in and get excellent 4K footage or shoot in 4K natively and enjoy some of the best-looking video you can get. If you want, you can even set 4K to a frame rate of 120 fps.

One of the best systems in the industry, Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS II autofocus excels in both still and moving images. In-body image stabilization is also advantageous for video because it makes it easier to take steady shots with a hand-held camera. If you already own EF DSLR lenses, you can use them on the R5 with full functionality thanks to the EF-to-RF adapter. The RF lens market is also expanding and features some of the sharpest optics available.

It’s not a perfect camera; upon release, it developed a reputation for its limitations in recording at high resolutions due to an overheating problem. It’s not a deal-breaker, just something to be aware of. As we made clear in our comprehensive review, this is still one of the most innovative and excellent cameras you can buy right now, period, and it’s one of the most adaptable purchases that YouTubers can make.

4. Sony ZV-1: Best Compact

Reasons to Buy

• Vari-angle screen
• Fixed 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 zoom
• Included windshield

Reasons to Avoid

• No viewfinder

The Sony ZV-1 is an excellent camera for YouTube thanks to its many features. The Sony RX100’s sensor and lens are comparable, but the body, controls, audio, and rear screen have all been brilliantly tailored for vlogging. You get a vari-angle rear screen for artistic shooting and, of course, front-facing video, a clip-on windshield for recording crystal-clear audio outside, and brilliantly quick AF — all in a small package that’s simple to slip into a pocket.

The camera lacks a built-in viewfinder, flash, or even a mode dial, but it does have a sizable Record button and a sizable built-in microphone—exactly what you need to record YouTube content while on the go. Although it costs a little more than the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II at the top of our list (which does have a flash), it doesn’t offer very much.

5. Nikon Z30: Best New Vlogger Kid on the Block

Reasons to Buy

• Uncropped 4K video
• Vlogger-focused ergonomics

Reasons to Avoid

• Limited lens selection
• Omission of headphone jack

The Z30 is blatantly vlogger-focused, and Nikon now offers three APS-C cameras in its Z mirrorless lineup. It can capture uncropped 4K UHD video but lacks a viewfinder and only has a vari-angle screen. We adore the Z30’s chunky, protruding handgrip, which makes one-handed shooting a breeze. It is neat and portable and is light enough to carry just about anywhere.

Z cameras are still in their infancy, particularly those with APS-C sensors that are smaller. As a result, there aren’t as many lenses widely available to specifically fit these cameras as there are for the Sony ZV-E10, the Z30’s closest obvious rival, which benefits from the long history of Sony E-mount.

Even so, this camera has a lot going for it, including in-camera stabilization for video and a respectable built-in mic with wind noise reduction.

6. Panasonic Lumix GH6: Best Camera for Youtube at the Higher End

Reasons to Buy

• Unlimited recording times
• Incredibly customizable video

Reasons to Avoid

• Chunky and heavy
• Battery life could be better

Each YouTuber has a different level of expertise, with some having significantly more in-depth video knowledge than others. The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is the right camera for you if you enjoy fiddling around in the camera’s settings to get your video footage just right. The best consumer video camera ever created is this one.

The camera’s new 25MP stacked sensor, which enables significantly faster readout speeds and significantly more video options for the user, is its heartbeat. It can record in pretty much any codec a filmmaker or YouTuber could desire, and it can go up to 5.7K resolution at 30fps in Apple ProRes format.

If you don’t care much about this, the Lumix GH6 is probably more camera than you need, so you should probably choose a less expensive model. But it’s a really great option for the geeks among us. One of the fastest and best memory cards can be inserted into a CFexpress Type B card slot to take advantage of the high-quality formats.

7. Sony A6000: Best Cheap Vlogging Camera

Reasons to Buy

• Amazing value for money
• Autofocus still great

Reasons to Avoid

• No 4K
• Menus a bit dated

The original Sony A6000 is still among the most popular models in this line of Sony cameras, despite its recent tremendous growth. The A6000’s current low price will be welcomed by younger YouTubers who have not yet earned enough money to purchase fancy equipment. However, it should be noted that there is a limit to the amount of Full HD quality video that can be uploaded (there is no 4K, sadly), so keep that in mind if it’s a deal-breaker. The camera’s other features include a substantial 24MP APS-C sensor and a capable image processor with a 179-point autofocus system, which provide rock-solid foundations for the device.

Select one of Sony’s E-mount lenses to use with the camera for greater shooting versatility and excellent image quality. This camera is a good reminder that you don’t always need the most cutting-edge technology to make high-quality YouTube videos. Older models occasionally offer better value.

8. GoPro Hero11 Black: Best Action Camera for Youtubers

Reasons to Buy

• Useful front display
• Class-leading stabilisation

Reasons to Avoid

• Relatively expensive
• Small image sensor

If you need a brand with extreme durability, choose GoPro. You can throw it in a lake, throw it off a mountain, or bounce it along on a mountain bike. The compact and durable GoPro Hero 11 Black is for you if you intend to record sports for your YouTube channel, regardless of how extreme the activity may be.

This September, the popular Hero 10 Black will be replaced by the Hero 11, which is waterproof to 33 feet below the surface, automatically sends highlight videos to your phone, and now has a longer-lasting Enduro battery. In order to facilitate selfie vlogging, it keeps the useful front screen from the 10 and updates its industry-leading HyperSmooth 4.0 image stabilization with, get ready for this, HyperSmooth 5.0. Even when thrown around in difficult circumstances, it can record steady, smooth video.

The 5.3K video resolution, which is 91% higher than 4K and is recorded at an amazing 60FPS, allows the Hero10 Black to now capture even more detail. The horizon lock feature makes every jump, flight, and wild descent look even more impressive. There is also a new video feature of 4K at 120FPS for those who enjoy capturing footage for slow motion. If extreme shooters need a camera that can keep up with them and want smooth video and dependable results, they should choose the Hero11 Black.

9. Canon EOS 90D: Best Excellent Video Specs

Reasons to Buy

• Strong battery life
• Weather sealed

Reasons to Avoid

• Only one card slot
• No in-body stabilisation

By creating this newest option, the 90D, Canon capitalized on the EOS 70D’s success among YouTubers. It is specifically designed for the video market and captures detailed, uncropped 4K UHD video. When the resolution is reduced to Full HD, it can even capture slow motion 120 frames per second. Should you require it, it even captures 32.5MP stills for multimedia video content. Canon also updated the I/O by adding connections for an external microphone and headphones to aid in audio recording and monitoring.

Because it draws from its DSLR heritage, the EOS 90D is bigger and heavier than other cameras on this list. However, one major benefit of that is that it is weather-sealing, allowing you to continue shooting in rain or snow. It also has a big, bright optical viewfinder, which we found to be satisfying to use. For video producers who don’t mind something a little bulkier, it’s an absolute steal at this price.

10. DJI Action 2: Best GoPro Alternative

Reasons to Buy

• Unique style and super portable
• Smart modular accessories
• Good app experience

Reasons to Avoid

• Not waterproof with modular battery
• Overheats with high-resolution filming

Unbelievably small and stylish, the DJI Action 2 is a modular action camera. Although it can’t match the video quality or functionality of its main rival, the GoPro Hero 10 Black (see above), it’s still a great option for YouTubers who value style and portability.

Although it did seem to us to be more prone to dents than the GoPro, we were impressed with the blasted metal finish when we reviewed it. But the neat magnetic, modular accessories that, depending on the package you choose, can add more battery life, support for Micro SD cards, and a USB-C port most impressed us. A selfie screen, a macro lens, and other accessories are available. The drawback of adding modules is that doing so renders the gadget unusable without additional housing because it is no longer waterproof. However, its overheating will be the biggest limitation for YouTubers, limiting your ability to record 4K footage at the highest quality for bursts of up to about 4 minutes.

11. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K: Best Camera for Youtube Pros

Reasons to Buy

• Superb 6K footage
• Canon EF lens mount

Reasons to Avoid

• Battery not great
• No articulating screen

Both camera operators and filmmakers have high regard for Blackmagic as superior plug-and-film equipment. They create cameras that can quickly and easily record fantastic video. In order to create high-resolution YouTube videos that stand out from the competition on the biggest video sharing platform in the world, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K has a large Super 35 sensor and can shoot 6K Raw footage at 60fps.

Users of the BPCC 6K can use any of the Canon EF line-up of lenses because the BPCC 6K has a Canon EF mount built into it, increasing affordability and flexibility when it comes to selecting glass. This camera is a good investment for anyone thinking about making YouTube their full-time career because it offers professional features in a portable package and costs less than most cinema cameras. The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K is a camera that offers excellent quality and features at an affordable price, according to our review.

12. Panasonic Lumix S5: Best Full-Frame Video Camera

Reasons to Buy

• Pro-spec video options
• Well-built, weather-sealed body

Reasons to Avoid

• Some modes incur 30min limit
• Only one UHS-II SD slot

Since its release a few years ago, the Panasonic Lumix S series has impressed both photographers and tech enthusiasts. Recently, Netflix added the Lumix S1H to its list of approved cameras for use when shooting its content. The Lumix S5, a more recent model, essentially takes the functionality of the S1H and crams it into a much more affordable body, which makes it a winner in our eyes.

The Panasonic Lumix S5 is seriously impressive for just about any user, capable of recording 10-bit DCI and UHD 4K full-frame video at up to 30p with 10-bit 4:2:2 color. The variable frame rate function enables you to switch from high frame rates to low ones to dramatically slow down and speed up your footage. The dual gain sensor produces impressive dynamic range at low ISO settings.

The Lumix S5 has a 30-minute time limit on some modes, but overall, shooting is unlimited. Although it lacks some of the S1H’s top features, such as 6K video, in all honesty, you almost certainly do not need them for YouTube. This excellent YouTuber’s camera features a full-frame sensor with incredible detail.

13. Insta360 Go 2: Best for Proper Video

Reasons to Buy

• Tiny when used ‘naked’
• High resolution for its size
• Charge case and mounts included

Reasons to Avoid

• Short run time
• Can ‘flick’ out of mounts

The adorable and tiny Insta360 Go 2 wearable camera can be attached to clothing, attached to a magnetic necklace around your neck, propped up on your desk in its own holder, or attached to a dashboard or window… and more. It’s also worthwhile to take into account as a minimalist rig for vloggers and YouTubers because it can create distinctive immersive POV shorts and is small enough to be poked where other cameras won’t fit, even a GoPro.

For such a small camera, the Insta360 Go 2’s lightweight features are surprisingly substantial. This adaptable clip-on camera is more than just a novelty item thanks to excellent image stabilization, “horizon lock,” and a multi-purpose battery case. It includes a sticky, movable desk or wall mount, a magnetic neck lanyard, and its own charging case/mini tripod.

14. Razer Kiyo Pro: Fine Webcam for Streamers

Reasons to Buy

• Super smooth frame rates
• Intuitive to setup and use

Reasons to Avoid

• Color issues in low light
• Very expensive

There aren’t many webcams that can compete with the Razer Kiyo Pro if the majority of your YouTube content is home video. It has a DSLR lens-like design and clips to the top of a monitor for stylish sit-down streaming. To position the Pro more creatively or to record handheld content like unboxings, you can also use the tripod attachment. Due to its potent sensor, which can record video at a smooth 60 frames per second, the camera itself is larger than a typical webcam.

We discovered that the adaptive sensor does an outstanding job of capturing all available light, and exposure is excellent as usual. The balance of the highlights and shadows is improved, but switching to HDR mode reduces the frame rate to 30fps. The webcam’s color correction may occasionally fail if the ambient lighting in your recording space is dim, but this can be fixed with a brief burst of bright light. The Kiyo Pro is easy to set up and is perfect for all types of YouTube content thanks to Razer’s Synapse software’s adjustment options, which include three fields of view.

How to Pick the Best YouTube Camera for You?

While your needs will vary slightly depending on the kind of videos you’re looking to shoot, there are five main features that you should look for in a YouTube camera:

1. Articulating Screen

When attempting to film yourself, an articulating screen—whether it flips out to the side or pivots up to the top—is a godsend. It helps you get the fundamentals right so you can focus on other aspects of your video by giving you a live preview of the shot composition, exposure, and focus.

2. Good Autofocus

While manual focus has a place in filmmaking, it’s best to choose a camera with excellent video autofocus if you want to keep everything as easy and uncomplicated as possible. If you move around a lot in your videos, face and/or eye tracking can help because the focus will automatically change to make up for it.

3. Built-in Stabilization

A video shot on location may be shaky and difficult to watch. Thankfully, a lot of contemporary cameras have image stabilization—either optical, electronic, or a combination of the two—to automatically correct for motion. It should be noted that some do it significantly better than others. An alternative is a gimbal, which stabilizes almost any camera but adds weight.

4. Audio Options

The built-in microphone on a camera can record sound, but using an external microphone will greatly improve clarity and probably reduce unwanted background noise. Verify any purchases for microphone inputs and a hot shoe for mounting microphones. You may also want to think about headphone jacks because they let you listen to recordings while listening to audio levels.

5. Livestreaming Options

Checking to see if a potential camera supports YouTube livestreaming is highly recommended for anyone who wants to broadcast live. It might not be essential for those who make videos to upload after filming and editing. More and more cameras are coming with the technology built-in, so it’s not just smartphones and webcams anymore.

Our Verdict

Not everyone will have the same best YouTube camera. Everything depends on the kind of content you produce, as well as where and how you film. The best option all around is the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III. Consider the Sony A6000 if you’re looking for a cheap one.

Read More:

• How To Reset My Spypoint Camera?
• Best Disposable Camera