Top 5 Vlogging Cameras for Beginners in 2024
[Last updated: Sep 5, 2024]
Vlogging has become an incredibly popular way to share your life, stories, and creative content with the world.
If you're new to vlogging and want to start in 2024, choosing the right camera is fundamental.
This comprehensive buying guide will help you select the best vlogging camera for your needs.
Top Vlogging Cameras at a Glance
Best Budget: Canon EOS R50
Best Compact: Sony ZV-1
Best Mirrorless: Sony ZV-E10
Best for Action: GoPro HERO11 Black
Best Smartphone Stabilizer: DJI Osmo Mobile 6
Best Budget Vlogging Cameras
Canon EOS R50
Pros: Versatile, affordable, impressive video capabilities
Cons: Limited battery life, no in-body image stabilization
Price range: $600-$700
The Canon EOS R50 is an excellent entry-level camera for beginner bloggers.
It offers 4K video recording, a flip-out screen, and Canon's renowned Dual Pixel autofocus system.
For more budget-friendly options, check out my guide on the best cameras under $300 for casual photography.
Nikon Z30
Pros: Compact, easy to use, excellent autofocus
Cons: No viewfinder, limited lens selection
Price range: $700-$800
The Nikon Z30 is designed with vloggers in mind, featuring 4K video, a vari-angle touchscreen, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy sharing.
Top Compact Vlogging Camera
Sony ZV-1
Pros: Specifically designed for vlogging, excellent autofocus, great audio quality
Cons: Fixed lens, small battery
Price range: $700-$800
The Sony ZV-1 is a powerhouse compact camera for bloggers.
It boasts a flip-out screen, advanced autofocus with real-time tracking, and a high-quality built-in microphone.
For a comparison with another popular compact camera, see my Sony HX99 vs Lumix TZ95 comparison.
Best Mirrorless Vlogging Cameras
Sony ZV-E10
Pros: Larger sensor than ZV-1, interchangeable lenses, excellent autofocus
Cons: No in-body stabilization, rolling shutter in 4K
Price range: $700-$800
The Sony ZV-E10 is a step up from the ZV-1, offering a larger APS-C sensor and the ability to change lenses, making it more versatile for growing YouTubers.
For lens recommendations, check out my guide on the best lenses for the Sony ZV-E10.
Sony ZV-E1
Pros: Full-frame sensor, exceptional low-light performance, top-notch stabilization
Cons: Expensive, larger size compared to other options
Price range: $2,000-$2,200
The Sony ZV-E1 is the top model in Sony's vlogging lineup, offering professional-level features for serious content creators.
If you're considering Sony vs Canon, check out my comparison of Sony and Canon mirrorless cameras and lenses.
Phone Stabilizers for Vlogging
For those preferring to vlog with smartphones, a stabilizer is essential.
Here are two excellent options:
DJI Osmo Mobile 6
Pros: Compact, magnetic mount, subject-tracking abilities
Cons: Limited battery life, primarily for iPhones
Price range: $150-$170
Insta360 Flow
Pros: Compatible with iOS and Android, portable, smooth stabilization
Cons: App can be buggy, limited advanced features
Price range: $150-$170
For more options, see my guide on smooth smartphone videos with compact gimbals.
Best Action Cameras for Adventure Vlogging
If your vlogging involves adventure or action, consider these rugged and compact action cameras:
GoPro HERO11 Black
Pros: 5.3K video quality, excellent stabilization, waterproof
Cons: Limited battery life, can overheat in long recordings
Price range: $400-$500
DJI Osmo Action 3
Pros: Modular design, great stabilization, durable
Cons: Image quality not as good as GoPro, limited slow-motion options
Price range: $300-$400
For more information on using GoPros, check out my GoPro guide for beginners and pros.
Additional Vlogging Camera Options
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Pros: 360-degree capture, unique perspectives
Cons: Requires more editing, lower resolution when reframed
Price range: $400-$500
Insta360 X3
Pros: 360-degree capture, unique perspectives
Cons: Requires more editing, lower resolution when reframed
Price range: $400-$500
For underwater vlogging, check out my guide to underwater cameras.
Understanding Camera Types for Vlogging
Before we get into specific models, let's look at the different types of cameras suitable for vlogging:
DSLR Cameras: High image quality, interchangeable lenses, but bulky
Mirrorless Cameras: Similar quality to DSLRs, more compact
Point-and-Shoot Cameras: Easy to use, often with vlogging-specific features
Action Cameras: Tough and compact, great for adventure vlogging
Smartphones: Convenient, increasingly capable for vlogging
For a detailed comparison, see my DSLR vs Mirrorless Cameras Guide.
Key Vlogging Camera Features
When choosing a vlogging camera, keep these important features in mind:
Audio Quality: Look for cameras with a built-in microphone that records clear sound, and consider models that allow you to connect an external microphone.
Autofocus: Reliable autofocus, especially with face or eye-tracking abilities, is essential for keeping yourself in focus while vlogging.
Size and Portability: A lightweight and compact camera will be easier to handle, especially if you're vlogging on the go.
Video Resolution: 4K resolution offers more detailed and professional-looking footage, but 1080p is still good enough for beginners.
Compatibility: A camera with a range of compatible accessories and lenses will give you more creative options.
Tips To Level Up Your Vlogging Skills
Practice regularly and experiment with different styles
Invest in good lighting and audio equipment
Learn basic video editing skills
Engage with your audience and analyze your metrics
Stay up-to-date with platform trends and algorithm changes
For the best times to buy a camera and save money, check out my guide on camera purchasing timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the most important feature for a beginner vlogging camera?
A: For beginners, ease of use and good autofocus are crucial. Look for cameras with flip screens and user-friendly interfaces.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on my first vlogging camera?
A: You can find good options between $500-$800, but there are also budget-friendly choices under $500.
Q: Can I start vlogging with just my smartphone?
A: Absolutely! Modern smartphones have excellent cameras. Pair it with a stabilizer and external microphone for better results. Check out my guide on smartphone vs DSLR cameras for more information.
Q: What accessories do I need besides the camera?
A: Consider a tripod, external microphone, and additional lighting to enhance your video quality. For budget-friendly options, see my budget filmmaking gear for beginners guide.
Q: How do I choose between a mirrorless and a point-and-shoot camera?
A: Mirrorless cameras offer more flexibility with interchangeable lenses but are typically more expensive. Point-and-shoot cameras are more compact and often easier to use for beginners.
And That’s It
The best camera is the one that fits your specific needs and budget.
Start with what you can afford and upgrade as your skills and channel grow.
For more tips on vlogging, video editing, and growing your YouTube channel, check out my vlogging tips for beginners.
I hope that helps,
-Hakan