Thanks to advanced technology and easy access to smartphones, nowadays, pretty much everyone has access to a camera. But while smartphones today have excellent cameras, they just won't cut it when it comes to professional video and images. If you want to capture stunning videos that will help you build your YouTube following, or retain your videography clients, you need to invest in the best video camera.

These cameras are specifically designed for video production and pack features that enhance video quality and make capturing video footage a walk in the park. They come at different budgets, and for different users. Whether you are a budding videographer planning to dip your toes into the professional video production industry, or you like capturing videos for personal use, there’s a video camera for you out there. To make your search even easier, we compiled a list of the best video cameras and some professional video cameras advice.

Editors choice

1. GoPro HERO8 Black

9.75 / 10
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After GoPro released its flagship Hero7 in 2018, fans couldn’t tell what the company would produce next. The answer is its Hero8 Black. The video camera touts a physical redesign of GoPro Hero5 Black and comes with an integrated mount, so you never need to use a mounting frame. In addition, the device is compatible with mods enabling you to transform the camera into a vlogging tool.

What stands out about this video camera is the HyperSmooth 2.0 feature that’s compatible with all resolutions and frame rates. This means the camera provides an improved stabilization performance that doesn’t change the amount of crop. You can also improve its stabilization using its new Boost mode if you are follow-cam filming. When combined with its optional horizon leveling feature, it takes its EIS capability a notch higher.

Besides its exceptional EIS function, its new design brings a critical practical improvement. At the bottom of the camera are two tabs folding out to form mounting hardware. Previously, users needed to place the camera in a frame to use it with a mount. The hardware also provides easy access to the battery and memory card as you no longer need to remove the frame first.

Its 4K video resolution is beyond impressive. It allows you to shoot up to 60 fps, excellent for half-speed playback, and you can use 24fps for cinema use at all resolutions. However, if shooting slow-motion video footage, you can reduce the resolution to 2.7K. Alternatively, you can drop it down to 1080p at 240 fps.

Key Features
  • HyperSmooth 2.0 video stabilization
  • LiveBurst mode
  • 12MP sensor
  • Optional Mods
Specifications
  • Brand: GoPro
Pros
  • Great Mod expansion system
  • Integrated mount
  • Better user interface
Cons
  • Wi-Fi video transfer lags
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GoPro HERO8 Black

An upgrade from Sony’s FDR-AX100, the video camera touts a range of new features, the most notable being the new 273 point phase-detection AF system. The feature allows fast and accurate video auto-focusing capability maintaining a sharp focus when filming moving objects. Also, with the HLG format, you can record HDR images for playback on HDR screens.

When compared to SDR format, the HDR improves color and contrast representation. Also, the integration of a dual SD card slot, 12x zoom range, an LCD, and viewfinder makes the FDRAX700 an excellent all-round camera. This means you can use it for professional videography and filmmaking as well as during simple family events.

As for this device’s 4K video recording ability, you have a range of formats you can explore. You can use the Hybrid-Log Gamma (HLG) to record and display a broader range of colors. Alternatively, you can connect the camera to HLG-compatible TV to watch HDR recordings without additional processing. The camera also provides the XAVC S recording format for HD and 4K recording. This format uses bit rates of up to 50 MB/s and 100 Mb/s, respectively, providing a detailed video without compression noise. If looking to customize the final image, Sony’s S-Log2 and S-Log3 picture profiles allow complete dynamic range shooting while reducing crushed blacks and blown highlights.

Key Features
  • 1’’ CMOS sensor
  • 12x Optical lens
  • HLG encoding
  • Hybrid AF with 273 points
Pros
  • Dual SD card slots
  • Great focusing ability
  • Can shoot video in 4K Ultra HD
Cons
  • Lacks advanced production features
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Sony FDR-AX700 4K HDR Camcorder

Kickteck may be a relatively new brand, but this camcorder sure kicks video camera performance a notch higher.  It shoots videos at 1080P and images at 24M. At a glance, this may not seem like much, but when you consider the price bracket of the Kickteck Video Camera, that is such an excellent bargain. Besides, with 1080P, you will capture some stunning details. What's more, it features modes such as built-in fill light, anti-shaking, face capture, and beauty function, among many others. All these modes greatly enhance the quality of the videos and images you capture.

If your laptop or PC lacks a webcam function and you would like to skype, you need not worry because the Kicketck camcorder can also double up as a webcam video camera thanks to the webcam function. All you need to do is download AMCAP software, connect it to your PC, and select the PC Cam mode.

If you are a YouTuber or any other creative content creator, you will love the Pause Function. It allows you to pause when need be, and then continue recording when all is clear. The battery life is also quite impressive. It comes with two rechargeable batteries, each lasting between 60 and 90 minutes.

This is enough to capture countless videos while outdoors. Additionally, it is possible to record while charging. This feature comes in handy when you plan on stepping out but need to record, and at the same time, ensure your batteries are full. Regarding storage, the Kickteck Camcorder features an SD Card slot and can support between 4GB and 32GB SD cards. If you like recording on the go, you will love this camcorder even more as it’s pretty compact, and easily mountable on a tripod.

Key Features
  • 16x digital zoom
  • CMOS image Sensor
  • 270-degrees display screen rotation
  • Photo, video, anti-shaking, and support modes
Pros
  • Multiple functions make recording easy
  • It’s possible to record while charging
  • Long battery life
  • Compact design
Cons
  • Lacks optical zoom
  • Issues with SD Card connectivity
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Kickteck Video Camera Camcorder

The onset of full-frame video cameras makes cams with small sensors almost invisible. It doesn’t mean there’s no more market for these kind of cameras. On the contrary, more camera manufacturers are developing compact broadcast cameras with small sensors, albeit the shrinking demand. Panasonic is one such brand having announced three camcorders with small image sensors during the 2020 CES.

The X1500 4K Professional Camcorder was one of its offerings and it lives up to its hype. The video camera touts a ½.5’’ 8.29M MOS sensor capable of shooting at 4K resolution. When paired with the Venus Engine, it can scale 4K images for full HD delivery.

Its built-in Leica Dicomar lens has a 4-Drive Lens System that controls the lens groups independently. This means the lens offers a 24x optical zoom ranging from 25mm wide-angle to 600 mm telephoto with a 35mm camera. For the digital zoom, the lens achieves 48X at full HD and 32x zoom at 4K resolution. What’s more, its two manual rings allow you to focus on the image and zoom in on the subject.

As for its recording modes, the Panasonic X1500 4K Professional Camcorder doesn’t disappoint. You can set it at 10-bit recording to deliver 4K image quality in 60p 4:2:2 HDMI output. Also, you can record 4K images at 60p in H.265 mode. Note internal recording in 4:2:2 10-bit is restricted to Full HD 60p and 4K 30p.

Key Features
  • LEICA DICOMAR Lens
  • 4K recording
  • Wi-Fi Live streaming
  • Optical Image Stabilization
Pros
  • High readability in bright sunlight
  • Built-in Wi-Fi module
  • Supports face detection
Cons
  • Image sensor too small
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Panasonic X1500 4K Professional Camcorder

The A6600 is Sony’s latest flagship offering after the A6500 camera. Does it outdo its predecessor? Let’s find out.

The camera still features a BIONZ image processor and a 24.2 MP sensor, which are no new features, but its advanced tracking and autofocus capabilities are pretty impressive. It also comes with a high-capacity battery and a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body that shelters its in-body sensor-shift image stabilization. What’s more, with its 4K HDR capture, there’s no restriction as to its recording length.

As for its design, the A6600 is designed to withstand a little more than previous models. Its waterproofing design provides a larger grip allowing it to sit securely in large hands while leaving ample space between the lens and the grip. Another notable difference between this video camera and the rest of Sony’s A6000-series is its chassis. It is made of magnesium alloy, giving it a distinct high-end appearance. Also, the LCD touchscreen can tilt up to 180 degrees, a handy feature for vloggers.

As for its performance, the A6600 outdoes other such video cameras in the market thanks to its real-time tracking technology. The feature enables the device to track the subject and focus on them and, you can swap between eye tracking, face detection, and object tracking features. Also, with its 11fps burst shooting, you can take as many sharp shots. If it’s not fast enough when filming, you can switch to its Real-Time Eye AF feature.

Key Features
  • Five-axis body image stabilization
  • Real-time Eye AF
  • 24 2MP Exmore CMOS image sensor
  • 11 fps continuous shooting
Pros
  • Mic and headphone jacks
  • Unlimited 4K video recording
  • Long-lasting battery
Cons
  • Large rolling shutter
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Sony Alpha A6600 Mirrorless Camera

Want an inexpensive video camera with a bunch of amazing specs? If so, then the Yeehao Camcorder Video Camera will make an excellent buy.  It comes equipped with all you need for great video shoots, and also boasts features guaranteed to enable you to capture stunning videos and images. It shoots videos at a 1080P resolution and images at 720P. It has 16x digital zoom, great for capturing high-quality videos and images when the subject is far. As with others on our list, it has a pause function, which, as noted, can be pretty handy.

But other than that, the Yeehao video camcorder is equipped with modes that make video and photo shoots a breeze. For instance, it has an anti-shake mode that guarantees high-quality images even when you record on the go, IR Night Vision for perfect shoots at night, motion detection, and slow-motion modes.

As far as hardware design is concerned, the manufacturer did a pretty good job. It comes with a three-inch IPS touch screen, which lets you view your videos and images in real-time, and it is equipped with a microphone. This not only saves you the cost of buying one separately but also means you get to enjoy a high-quality X and Y microphone without breaking the bank. The camera can also doubles up as a webcam when you need to skype your family and friends. It has WIFI connectivity, USB and HD outputs for easy file transfers, and a MicroSD slot, which can support up to 128GB.

Key Features
  • WIFI Connectivity
  • Sony IMX179 Cmos image sensor
  • 16x digital zoom
  • USB and HD Outputs
Pros
  • Features night vision and anti-shaking modes
  • Comes with an external microphone
  • Comes with everything you need
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Battery runtime is short-lived
  • Problematic WIFI connectivity
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YEEHAO Camcorder Video Camera

If you are a content creator looking for the best video camera on a reasonable budget, you might want to give the AiTechny Ultra HD Video camera a look. Weighing a little over 1 pound, this video camera is both compact and functional. It sports a 3inch IPS HD touch screen, which not only lets you see what you are recording in real-time but also rotates up to 270-degrees, making it easy for you to track move objects and capture videos even in the most awkward angles. It has HD, AV, and USB outputs making file transfers to any device a walk in the park.

The AiTechny camcorder also comes with a wide-angled lens adapter, a great addition for when you need to capture wide-angled videos. As if not impressive enough, it features its external stereo microphone, so you don't have to buy separately. This isn't just an average manufacturer microphone. It uses X and Y stereo technology and it is designed to filter out the noise and enhance sounds, so you never have to worry about wind distortion, and so your videos and voice-overs can be crispy clear.

In regards to performance, the AiTechny UltraHD digital camcorder does exceptionally well. It records videos at 4k and captures images at 48Mp. This is more than can be said for other expensive models. It has modes and features that not only make your life as a content creator easy but also enhance video and image quality. For instance, with 16x digital zoom, you can now capture stunning videos and images even when the subject is far. The pause function means you can quickly stop recording and start again when the time is right, and you will not have to start over again. It also boasts WIFI connectivity for instant file transfers and can double up as a webcam. You can also record while charging, but if you are outdoors, it comes with two batteries, guaranteed to give you enough runtime to do your thing.

Key Features
  • 13.0MP CMOS Sensor
  • 48MP Image resolution
  • Wide angled lens
  • 16x Zoom
Pros
  • Comes bundled with all you need
  • Records videos at 4K
  • Instant file transfers via WIFI or USB, HD, and AV outputs
  • High-quality microphone
Cons
  • Focus isn’t quite clear from a distance
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AITechny Ultra HD Video Camera

Vlogging has become a favorite pastime and professional venture for many people. While high-end smartphones make great recording tools, camcorders provide lots of functional features, especially when live streaming. Actinow Video Camera Camcorder is one such example equipped with a range of configurations to provide a seamless vlogging experience. It comes with an external mic, lens hood, and a camera holder. The built-in microphone is paired with the external microphone to deliver outstanding audio while the lens hood filters out excess stray light.

Its video camera is equipped for 2.7K UHD resolution, and it delivers high-quality footages just as cams with 4K resolution. The image quality is also pretty crisp thanks to its 36 MP resolution.  What stands out about this camcorder is its 270-degree rotatable screen. It allows you to shoot video footage from awkward angles, a pretty functional feature for any YouTuber or vlogger. Also, with its pause function, you can stop a recording without starting a new video.

The camcorder also comes with an IR Night Vision feature that allows you to record videos at night. You don’t have to adjust the video or the photo functions; its IR function equips the device with the right settings to capture images even when the light intensity is not enough.

Key Features
  • IR Night Vision
  • 270-degree rotation
  • Anti-shaking and motion detection
  • Pause function
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Microphone picks up external sounds
  • Pause video function
Cons
  • Video footage in low light conditions is grainy
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Actinow Video Camera Camcorder

If you have used the GoPro Hero7 White, you have probably noted its lack of the most important feature in modern video cams -- the 4K resolution. Its Silver version provides this feature, hence a worthy buy if looking for a middle-ground GoPro camera for occasional video shooting.

Its design hasn’t changed from GoPro’s 2016 Hero 5. It has a small build that sports a chunky plastic material which comes in handy when mounting it on a tripod. The camera is also water-resistant to a 10-meter depth (10-ATM), so you don’t need to buy a separate housing if taking it on a snorkeling holiday. Moreover, if planning to dive, you can use GoPro’s Super Suitcase that increases its water-resistance to 60 meters.

Besides its water-resistance capability, its resolution mainly suits the average hobbyist. Your options are restricted to 4K, 1080p, and 1440 at an aspect ratio of 4:3. The 4K mode provides more detail than its counterparts enabling full HD footage to appear as a video produced using pixel binning. As for its stabilization capability, it smooths out any bumps when cycling, running, or walking.

The camera comes with a couple of handy features, including GPS for location tagging of your video or photo. It is also equipped with a WDR, a dynamic range-boosting feature for capturing stills. When used along with its time-lapse feature, you can add dramatic effects on your video footage.

Key Features
  • Voice Control
  • Burst mode
  • Electronic image stabilization
  • 10MP pics with WDR
Pros
  • Waterproofing capability
  • WDR balances high contrast
  • High-quality 4K video
Cons
  • Battery lasts a short time
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GoPro HERO7 Silver

Having all your outdoor vacations on record is an excellent way to reminisce about all the memories you hold dear. And with Linnse’s video camera, you can do just that. It comes with a built-in 32MB flash memory and an SD card slot that allows you to install cards with memories as large as 128GB. This means you can record and store pretty long video footage.

The video camera also provides a smooth shooting experience, especially if shooting YouTube videos. It supports Full HD video shooting at 30fps and up to 24 MP when taking photos. What’s more, you can zoom into images 16X on its three-inch IPS screen. Another feature that makes this camcorder stand out is its ability to shoot videos in dark-lit spaces. It has an Infrared Night vision feature that delivers high definition videos and images in darkness. Moreover, you can pair it with an external fill light fixture to light up the place for more detailed photos.

The camera doubles up as Webcam too. You only need to connect it to the PC using a USB cable and choose the PC CAM mode for live streaming or video chatting. And if audio recording, the external microphone comes in handy.

Key Features
  • IR Night Vision
  • Webcam
  • Storage of up to 128 GB
  • Comes with remote control
Pros
  • Can shoot videos in the dark
  • User-friendly pause feature
  • Can be used as a webcam
Cons
  • Focus is not adjustable
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LINNSE Video Camera Camcorder

On the more inexpensive end of the video camera market is kimire’s video camera, or digital camera recorder. While not the shiniest of the bunch, kimire’s video camera still packs one heck of a wallop.

For starters, at such a great value, the camera has great picture quality. Filming at 1080p in FullHD, the video camera is extremely competent in the video it captures. It doesn’t quite match the hype of 4K cameras, but it captures video in great quality nonetheless and would serve as a great starter camera for up-and-coming filmographers.

When it comes to aesthetics, this camera is fairly basic. It isn’t anything special as far as the look and feel of the camera go, but functionally, it performs A-okay, connecting via USB to various devices in order to transfer videos. This does mean that, if you own a laptop without any USB ports, prepare for some level of disappointment. However, any level of access to a computer with USB ports will guarantee you the ability to store videos at will.

Although it doesn’t dominate the camera market in the same way Sony or Canon do, kimire’s video camera performs an admirable job in what it is meant to do and would be a worthy addition to anybody’s tech catalog.

Key Features
  • Uses SD cards
  • Has a screen size of 3 inches
  • Has 0.01x optical zoom
  • Connects via USB
Specifications
  • Brand: kimire
  • Video Resolution: 1080p, FHD 1920x1080(15fps), HD 1280x720(30fps),640x480(30fps)
  • Lens: Fixed lens
Pros
  • Picture quality is very good
  • Great for travel
  • Fantastic value
  • Very good for beginners
Cons
  • For some, video quality was grainy
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kimire Digital Camera Recorder

Want to ensure you get yourself the best video camera? If yes, then you should ensure you consider your exact needs and preferences first.

Assess Your Needs

Suppose you want a video camera for high action sports or adrenaline-jerking activities, then you need a highly compact video camera, so you can have an easy time holding on to it while you do your thing.

You also need to take the resolution into account. This is particularly essential because if a camera has a low resolution, you can as well forget about high-quality videos. For stunning, crispy clear videos and images, the best video camera resolution should be at least 4K. But if you are working on a tight budget and need stunning videos, get a camera with a resolution of at least 1080P.

Resolution aside, you also need to consider the recording format. Most video cameras support MPEG-2, MPEG-4, and AVCHD. Also, what image sensor does it use? Usually, the higher the sensor's quality, the quicker and more conveniently, your images and videos will be processed. Ensure you consider the ISO Range. Usually, the ISO sensitivity determines how well the camera can capture photos and videos in different lighting conditions. The wider the ISO range, the better the camera will capture footage even in low lit conditions.

Also, what is the zoom feature like? You want a camera with at least 16x digital zoom, so you can easily record clear footage and capture high-quality images when you are far from the subject. Another essential feature to consider while looking for the best video camera is the image stabilization. This is particularly crucial if you plan on engaging in high action activities. Also, does the camera in question have an external microphone, or will you have to purchase one separately? What accessories does it bring to the table? What is the price?

While considering all the above, do not forget that video cameras are not a one-size-fits-all. Some are DSLR cameras, which means they feature an interchangeable lens and are pretty versatile as you can always use the lens you feel suit the situation best. Others are mirrorless. They are smaller, boast better autofocus systems, and generally boast the bigger DSLR cameras' functionality but in a smaller body. You will also come across camcorders that are versatile and have a softer learning curve. Other options include action cameras as well as point and shoot cameras. These are super compact, pack impressive specs, but come with a pretty hefty price tag.

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between a camcorder and a video camera

All told, camcorders and video cameras are one and the same. Both perform the same function of being handy, portable, and perfect for taking on the go to take videos of whatever suits your interest.

Q: What kind of video camera do YouTubers use?

For vlogging purposes, some cameras are much better than others. Vlogger Gear actually did the work and identified which cameras were used by some of the top YouTubers. It found that the Sony ZV-1 was the most popular choice for vlogging purposes while the Sony A7 IV was more popular for production.

Q: Are video cameras worth it in the age of smartphones?

Believe it or not, video cameras can still make a difference, even in an age where each and every smartphone has an extremely competent video camera. Although you will be shelling out more money, it is very worth it, especially if you're looking to get involved in the cinematographic process professionally.

Q: What cameras are used in Hollywood movies?

Arri Alexa cameras are the huge video cameras used for movies in Hollywood. Often, you'll see these over-the-shoulder-type cameras in behind-the-scenes footage and pictures. However, these aren't quite as accessible or user-friendly as the cameras listed here.

Q: Are digital cameras obsolete?

Digital cameras aren't quite obsolete, but they could be heading in that direction. PetaPixel proposes that, within the next 100 years, digital cameras will be all but gone. That said, they are still absolutely worth the purchase for interested videographers.