When starting out with a video blog (vlog), you could theoretically utilize any video camera including your webcam. But if you want to get production quality to make your video more watchable, it’s time to invest in a standalone vlog camera that can keep up with the action.
The modern choices of video cameras are wide and plenty from DSLRs to dinky mini-cams. Here are a few tips you should know before purchasing a vlogging camera; DSLRs are the most versatile when it comes to videos and photos, but they require some expertise and are usually pricey. Action cams, on the other hand, are best for those on the move.
It’s important to consider your needs before you impulsively buy a camera that doesn’t suit you. Use these tips to think about what you need in a camera for vlogging; now let’s kick off our top picks.
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The Coolpix W300 is a compact digital camera that shoots 4K videos using the 16MP backside illuminated CMOS sensor with stereo sound. This camera was built tough and is waterproof, shockproof and dustproof out of the box.
The built-in 5X optical zoom allows you to zoom in for a tighter view and the Hybrid Vibration Reduction keeps your videos steady even in bumpy situations. One of the cool features of this camera is that you can even edit short videos with music for direct uploading using the built-in Short Movie Show software on the camera.
In the past, Nikon was the king of film-based SLR cameras and carrying on their excellent heritage is their range of DSLR cameras. The D500 is Nikon’s compact powerhouse DSLR with the performance of the professional D5 and the agility of the DX format. This camera allows you to combine professional quality stills and videos however you see fit.
It is equipped with a feature list a mile long and it also comes with Snap Bridge to allow instant connection to compatible smart devices for media transfer via the built-in WiFi or Bluetooth. The price may put off some, but for the money, you will be getting the best and most user-friendly lightweight DSLR on the market today.
The newest Sony HDR action cam is smaller than its venerable predecessor but packs even more features in a smaller package. The widely acclaimed Exmor R CMOS sensor has been improved and paired with a new ZEISS Tessar Lens to allow for spectacular vistas with full HD and steady action with the Balanced Optical Steady Shot
In terms of ruggedness, the camera body is splash- and freeze-proof out of the box but with the supplied waterproof housing (MPK-UWH1), the Sony HDR becomes the best waterproof camera which you can take with you to depths of up to 60 meters. In addition, the housing also makes the camera dustproof and shockproof.
If you want a high-quality mirrorless camera to use for your vlogging the Olympus E-M5 will suit you just fine. Featuring near DSLR quality, this lightweight camera allows for smooth HD video recording in full HD 1080p with 81-point autofocus and 5 axis image stabilization tech which can be enhanced further with additional lenses. On top of that, you can transfer media swiftly with the built-in WiFi, or even directly to social media.
Ricoh is a survivor from the days of film-based cameras. Their Theta SC spherical camera is a slim and stylish video recorder which can create artful 360° spherical imagery. This small camera can be synchronized with your smartphone or tablet using Live-view display to check the various settings on screen before shooting.
Additionally, the Theta SC allows you to create up to 5 minutes of full HD quality fully spherical videos at 30 FPS for your vlogs without the need of a PC. Its small size also allows you to carry it around without any fuss.
Love them or hate them, electronics from China are here to stay and they do serve a purpose. If you are a beginner to the vlogging scene then China made Ewing A9 is just right for you. The camera is priced low, so you don’t have to worry about the budget.
Despite its small proportions, the camera shoots in full HD 1080p sports a 2-inch TFT LCD viewfinder, 5.0 Megapixel image sensor, is waterproof up to 30 meters, has a built-in timer and many other features often found in more costly cameras. This full-featured camera will do nicely for you to learn the ropes of vlogging before graduating to a better brand in the future.
Canon’s bad boy is the next generation of DSLR cameras with technology applied to make them less daunting to use. This camera features new 24.2 MP sensors and dual pixel CMOS AF to produce professional-quality videos and pictures. The built-in WiFi means you can easily transfer media to other smart devices.
Besides that, this camera also works with any model of EF or ES lenses. If you need to upgrade the built-in mic to stereo, the EOS 800D features an additional microphone input for the compatible Directional Stereo Microphone DME1.
So you want to vlog but you don’t want to spend any money, and you’ve tried your webcam but the results are terrible. What can you do? Well spend less than RM80 and you can get the DEXMA S20 sports DV camera. For this very affordable price, you get a very capable camera that performs all the basic tasks and more.
This camera is small and light, features a 2-inch LCD, shoots videos up to 1080p resolution, supports up to 32GB SD Card, has a wide-angle lens of 170 degrees, waterproof up to 30 meters, with vibration reduction and even built-in dual-band WiFi for easy transfer. You’re definitely getting the most bang out of your buck with this one!
More: 7 GoPro Alternatives That Won’t Burn a Hole in Your Wallet
Disclaimer: The pricing shown is just a good indication of how much these products are worth. The prices could change based on the e-commerce promotions that are going on. If some of the products are not available, do email us at [email protected]. Thank you!