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The best vlogging cameras you can buy
Today, many people catalog their daily lives and adventures through videos or vlogs rather than traditional blogs and journals. These often appear on websites, apps, or social media platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok.
While vlogging can be performed through your mobile device or standard camera, using a camera specifically designed for vlogging will take your content creation to the next level. We considered our staff's photography expertise and talked to creators to help you find the best vlogging cameras based on factors like video quality, battery life, weight, and price.
Also: The best cameras for beginners
ZDNET's top pick for the best vlogging camera overall is the Insta360 X3. This versatile device offers excellent frame rates and 360-degree video capture in a variety of creative modes, making it the perfect option to record yourself and every detail of your environment.
Read on to find a list of other top-performing vlogging cameras.
The best vlogging cameras of January 2024
- Excellent image stabilization
- High megapixels
- AI features and mode variety
- There are learning curves to use at its full potential
Insta360 X3 tech specs: Megapixels: Up to 72MP (image capture) | Body weight: 0.39 pound | Video resolution: 5.7K | Frames per second: Up to 100fps | Features: 360-degree shooting, water resistance
ZDNET's top pick for vlogging cameras is the Insta360 X3. Insta360 has been growing in popularity as a vendor for action cameras in recent years, and you can see why: the company produces top-quality cameras at a relatively affordable price point.
The Insta360 X3 includes different lens options for shooting wide-angle footage at 30fps or an extreme field-of-view (170 degrees). If you want to shoot yourself, a selfie option can capture footage at 60fps. Another bonus is the intuitive image stabilization on the Insta360 X3, which can be enabled to keep your footage level.
Typically, footage can be recorded in 5.7K, but the robust sensor also allows you to capture time lapses in even higher quality. The camera's rugged case and water resistance also make it a great option for vlogging extreme sports and other adventures.
You can purchase the standalone camera for $400 ($50 off) or as part of a kit, of which Insta360 offers many. These include car and motorcycle kits, selfie sticks, lens caps, tripods, and more, with discounts abundant in the firm's Winter sale.
- Gimbal creates smooth movement
- Lightweight
- Impressive image quality
- Some users report overheating issues
DJI Pocket 3 tech specs: Megapixels: 9.4MP (still) | Body weight: 0.39 pound | Digital zoom: 4x | Video resolution: 4K | Frames per second: Up to 120fps | Features: portable, developed for travel
The DJI Pocket 3 is a popular option for vlogging, and rightly so. This product is a massive upgrade on the Pocket 2, which has its own dedicated user base.
Weighing at just over a quarter of a pound, this $519 vlogging option is easily portable, having been developed for travel, and can capture high-movement videos with incredible clarity.
Also: The best camera accessories
Despite its small size, the DJI Pocket 3 can take up to 4x zoom photos on its camera. But this camera doesn't need you to zoom in to get the best shots. The combination of the upgraded 1-inch CMOS sensor, rotatable touchscreen, face and object tracking, filters, and 3-axis stabilization make this device an incredible option for your vlogging content creation.
- 21fps for continuous shooting
- 44x digital zoom and 2.7x optical zoom
- Great autofocus
- Poor battery life
- Subpar stabilization
Sony ZV-1 tech specs: Megapixels: 21MP | Body weight: 0.65 pound | Digital zoom: 44x | Video resolution: 4K | Frames per second: Up to 120fps | Features: Slow motion, time lapse
When spending your dollar on a vlogging camera, you should take into account all the other things you can use the camera for. Whether landscape photography, sports photography, or videography, versatility is key in the camera industry. With the capability to shoot up to 21fps continuously, this camera is for more than just video.
This $748 camera features shutter speeds ranging from 30-1/32000 and a burst rate of 24fps to create incredible opportunities to capture moving objects. Like most other cameras on this list, this device features a 3-inch LCD touchscreen that's adjustable so you can see what you're filming.
Mal Hellyer of Raw Mal Roams, a travel blog and photography venture, told ZDNET the Sony ZV-1 had been a "game-changer" for capturing and sharing experiences in high quality.
"The fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen display is a blessing for us content creators, letting me get those unique angles I need for my shots," she says. "And let's not forget the autofocus -- this is probably one of my favorite features."
- Excellent video quality
- High resolution
- Creator-friendly tools
- Some reports of connectivity issues
GoPro Hero 12 Creator Edition tech specs: Megapixels: 27 megapixels | Body weight: 0.33 pounds | Digital zoom: Digital | Video resolution: 5.3K | Frames per second: Up to 60fps
When you want a camera to keep up with your adventures and you want all of the kit you need to go with it, the $600 GoPro Hero 12 Creator Edition is the best vlogging camera for you.
It is water resistant (up to 33ft) so it can accompany you on those underwater expeditions. It is easy to live stream, and built-in HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization means your picture won't wobble even if you do. Plus, this camera comes with Autoboost for the widest shots possible, vertical capture, and up to five hours of runtime.
The Creator Edition includes the Hero 12 camera, a battery grip, media mod, light mod, and a battery.
- Lightweight
- Environmental noise cancellation
- Active filters
- Limited zoom
Canon PowerShot V10 tech specs: Megapixels: 15.2/20.9MP | Body weight: 0.46 pound | Digital zoom: 3x | Video resolution: 4K | Frames per second: Up to 30fps
The photography industry is very brand loyal. As a Canon user with a go-to Canon DSLR and lenses for professional photography, I will continue to buy these products until something incredible makes me swap.
The Canon PowerShot V10 is a sleek, handheld vlogging camera with a one-inch CMOS sensor, image stabilization, 14 active color filters, autofocus, a 3x zoom, three microphones (including one to eradicate environmental noise) and a self timer. Regarding shutter speed, you can expect still photos between 1/2000 -1/8 sec, with video benchmarked as 1/4000 - 1/25/sec.
This $430 camera has the ability to shoot 4K video at 30fps, and if you're looking for a pocket vlogging device with crisp imagery and beginner-friendly settings, the Canon PowerShot V10 is for you.
What is the best vlogging camera?
The best vlogging camera is the Insta360 X3. This versatile device offers excellent frame rates and 360-degree video capture in a variety of creative modes, making it the perfect option for capturing not only yourself, but also every detail of your environment.
While yes, it is the best option in our opinion, there are plenty of options out there including GoPro and Canon products. Here's a table to compare the key features and prices of these best vlogging cameras.
Vlogging camera | Cost | Megapixels | Video Resolution |
Insta360 X3 | $400 | 72 megapixels | 5.7K |
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 | $519 | 9.4 megapixels (still) | 4K |
Sony ZV-1 | $748 | 21 megapixels | 4K |
GoPro Hero 12 Creator Edition | $600 | 27 megapixels | 5.3K |
Canon PowerShot V10 | $430 | 20.9 megapixels | 4K |
Which is the right vlogging camera for you?
Everyone has a different use for every vlogging camera out there, as well as preferences concerning features, size, and price. Consider this chart before purchasing to find out which vlogging camera is best for you.
Choose this vlogging camera... | If you want... |
Insta360 X3 | A great action and vlogging camera with extremely high megapixels and 360-degree shooting capabilities. As our current favorite, you can't go wrong with its various capture modes and rugged case. |
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 | A pocket camera offering excellent functionality, stunning image capture, and quality. This small camera can capture better content than many smartphones and is perfect for travelers. |
Sony ZV-1 | A camera for more than just video. It has the capability to shoot up to 21fps in continuous shooting and has additional features making it suitable for more than just vlogging. |
GoPro Hero 12 Creator Edition | Wide, smooth action shots with incredible 5.3K video and fantastic stabilization live-action capture. This one of the best options for vlogging your adventures and sports. |
Canon PowerShot V10 | A Canon camera. The PowerShot V10 can shoot 4K video at 30fps, and if you're looking for a pocket vlogging device with crisp imagery and beginner-friendly settings, this camera is for you. |
How did we choose these vlogging cameras?
Here at ZDNET, many of us are well-versed in photography and videography, and so we are acquainted with the best brands on the market. We know what to look for when deciding which camera to purchase. We also spoke with content creators on what they use for their social media or live-streaming platforms and considered their recommendations and advice.
These are some of the considerations to make when choosing the best vlogging camera for your needs.
Video quality: After all, a camera is worthless if you cannot capture great video. Consider key features like the resolution and frames per second (fps) to get an idea of what kind of performance to expect.
Battery life: When you live a life on the go, it's critical that your vlogging camera has the battery life to last through your adventures. Some vlogging cameras have external batteries that come included or you can purchase additional batteries to use with your camera.
Weight: The last thing you want is a heavy, cumbersome vlogging camera when you are on the go. Instead, compare the weight of each vlogging camera and consider how much travel you plan to do with it. That will help you find the right-sized vlogging camera for your specific needs.
Price: The cost of vlogging cameras can vary widely based on the features you get with each camera. Overall, however, we found that the best vlogging cameras range from about $350 to $750, depending on the model you choose.
What equipment do you need for vlogging?
To start vlogging, all you need is a camera and an SD card to store your footage. But, if you are serious about this form of content creation, you will likely need a tripod, editing software on your computer, an attachable microphone, as well as more minor accessories along the way, such as lighting and a microphone.
What should I look for when buying a vlogging camera?
Like all cameras, ensuring your camera's megapixel count is high is the best starting point. Additionally, you'll want a camera that can handle the lowest aperture and shoot in 4K, or at least 1080p.
Viveca Chow, an actor and influencer living in New York City, highlights a couple of areas to consider. "Auto-focus is very important to me," she says, "and whether there is a flip screen so I can see my framing in real-time and not have to re-film anything." She also considers how the camera performs in low light.
Before you buy, think about the type of vlogging you will be doing and where you will be located. These conditions can help you find the best vlogging camera for your needs.
Do you need a flip screen for vlogging?
In short, yes, if you want good-quality videos. Without a flip screen, you will be unable to see what your camera is pointing at. Without being able to see exactly what you're recording, you can end up inadvertently recording at the wrong angles and this could impact the overall quality of your footage.
Are there alternative vlogging cameras worth considering?
The phrase, "a photographer is only as good as his camera," couldn't be more false. While, yes, having an advanced, high-quality camera helps, it ultimately comes down to the person using the camera.
While the vlogging cameras included in this list are the top ones on the market, they aren't the only ones. Below, we have included some alternatives you can also consider before making your purchase.