Best Cameras for Live Streaming Events in 2024
Broadcast Your Events Live with Clear Video and Audio
Can’t decide on the right camera for live-streaming your next event?
Whether it's a school play, company meeting, or online workshop, having the proper gear can make or break your live broadcast quality.
Here are my top camera picks to capture the action and engage your remote audience like a pro:
Top Webcam Pick: Logitech Brio 4K Pro
If you want a compact, plug-and-play solution, the Logitech Brio 4K Pro Webcam is an excellent choice for live streaming events.
Here's what makes it stand out:
Ultra HD 4K video at 30fps or smooth 1080p at 60fps
HDR and 5x digital zoom for super clear close-up shots
Two microphones that pick up sound from all directions
Wide 90-degree view to fit more in the frame
Simple USB connection to laptops and desktop computers
At around $200, the Brio 4K Pro offers great value, making it ideal for live-streaming school events, business meetings, webinars, and more.
Camcorder Recommendation: Sony HDR-CX240
For those wanting a dedicated video camera under $300, the Sony HDR-CX240 is an awesome option with impressive features:
Full 1920x1080 HD video recording at 60 frames per second
Image stabilization for smooth, steady footage
Built-in stereo microphone for clear audio recording
2.7" screen for monitoring your shots
Long battery life up to 190 minutes of use
While a bit bigger than a webcam, the HDR-CX240 delivers higher video quality and a longer battery, making it perfect for extended event coverage.
Webcam vs. Camcorder: Which is Right for You?
Webcams like the Logitech Brio are ideal for simple setups where you need to live stream to a remote audience fast.
They're easy to connect and use with video apps.
Camcorders like the Sony HDR-CX240 offer better video quality, stabilization, and battery life.
They're great for more advanced event coverage, especially when you need to move around and record for long periods.
Step It Up: Higher-End Cameras for More Flexibility
While webcams and camcorders are great affordable options, some events will require more advanced camera gear if you have flexibility in your budget:
Interchangeable Lens Cameras
Using a DSLR or mirrorless camera with detachable lenses will give you way better image quality and more camera controls compared to webcams and camcorders when connected to a video capture device.
Here are three great options:
1. Sony a6400 Mirrorless Camera
The a6400 is a compact yet powerful mirrorless camera that records super high-quality 4K video.
Its fast autofocus and flip-up screen make it perfect for live streaming.
Pair it with the Elgato Cam Link 4K for around $1,000 total.
2. Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Camera
The affordable R50 is Canon's entry into full-frame mirrorless with a 24.2MP sensor for excellent photo/video quality.
It shoots crisp 4K/60fps video and has a flip-out touchscreen perfect for live streaming.
Add an inexpensive capture device like the $300 Magewell USB Capture HDMI, and you have a very capable full-frame mirrorless setup for live streaming under $1,200 total.
While entry-level, the R50 over-delivers quality and features for the price, making it a great mirrorless option on a budget.
3. Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera
For a DSLR, Nikon's D3500 is a solid entry-level choice that can record full HD 1080p video at 60 frames per second.
While not 4K, it produces excellent image quality for around $500 with a kit lens.
Add a capture device like the Magewell USB Capture HDMI Gen 2 for around $300 more
4. Sony ZV-E10 Mirrorless Camera
As suggested by one of my readers Borislava Althea Tatchev, you can also consider the Sony ZV-E10 for a more budget-friendly mirrorless option specifically for live streaming via HDMI to a capture device like the Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2
Pair it with a bright prime lens like the Viltrox 23mm f/1.4 or 33mm f/1.4 for around $800 total.
This combo offers good video quality and a cinematic look at a lower price point.
Also, no matter which interchangeable lens camera you go with, you'll also need extras like an external mic for audio and lighting equipment to brighten up your livestreaming setup properly.
But the improved video quality and more camera controls make them a worthwhile step up if you have some more budget.
Premium Webcam: Elgato Facecam Pro
If you want the best image quality in a simple webcam, the $300 Elgato Facecam Pro offers 4K HDR recording, a premium low-light sensor, and a wide field of view.
All-in-One: OBSBot Tiny 2
For truly professional live streams, the $600 OBSBot Tiny 2 is an all-in-one 4K camera and encoder that connects directly to your computer over USB with broadcast-quality video and audio mixing capabilities.
While more expensive, these higher-end cameras open up creative possibilities like multi-cam setups, graphics overlays, and seamless scene switching for next-level live productions.
Recording Live Music Events
For recording live music events like concerts, festivals or DJ sets, here are some additional recommendations:
Main Camera
For the main front angle, consider renting a DSLR or mirrorless camera with good low-light performance, such as the Sony a7 III or Canon EOS R.
These can record high-quality 4K video and handle changing lighting conditions well. Mount on a sturdy tripod or monopod with a fluid head.
Alternatively, use a camcorder like the Sony FDR-AX700 or Panasonic HC-X1000 designed for extended recording sessions with good low-light capabilities.
Side Angle Camera
The GoPro HERO9 Black is an excellent compact option for capturing a side angle, as it can record 5K video while being durable and easy to mount near the stage or DJ booth.
Audio Recording
Use an external audio recorder like the Zoom H4n Pro or Tascam DR-40X to capture clean audio directly from the mixer or soundboard for syncing to your video footage.
Lighting
Consider renting lighting like LED panels or softboxes to supplement existing stage/venue lights and maintain consistent exposure as lighting conditions change.
Power & Storage
Rent extra batteries, high-capacity memory cards, and bring backup power sources to ensure uninterrupted recording for the full event duration.
Setting Up for Successful Live Streaming
Whichever camera you choose, proper setup is key for a smooth live broadcast.
Here are some quick tips:
Position the camera at eye level for flattering angles
Make sure your event space has good lighting
Use a tripod or stable surface to avoid shaky footage
Adjust audio settings and use external mics if needed
Test your setup with live streaming software like Zoom beforehand
Real-Life Examples
So, the webcams and camcorders mentioned make great affordable options for live streaming events like:
School concerts, plays, or graduations
Corporate meetings and presentations
Live-streamed fitness classes or cooking demos
Meanwhile, the higher-end cameras enable more advanced productions perfect for:
Multi-camera live streams of theater/dance performances
Streaming professional webinars or online courses
Live podcasts or interview shows with graphics overlays
And That’s It
No matter what type of event you're live streaming, having the right camera setup will help you deliver an engaging experience for your audience.
With options like simple plug-and-play webcams to powerhouse mirrorless cameras, there's a solution to fit every need and budget.
I hope that helps,
-Hakan.