Picking the best cameras for video recording isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially if you’re planning to take it on vacation. There are so many important things to consider, including weight, a system of use, and durability.
If you have no idea which one to choose, fear not! Here we’ve rounded up some of the best cameras for video and photography that you can get on the market today. That includes the best Canon DSLR camera for video recording, which should be excellent news if you like products from the Japanese-based brand.
And as always, don’t forget to stick around until the end of the article. That’s because we’re going to reveal some essential tips on choosing the best cameras with video recording. But for now, let’s check our reviews first!
Table of contents
- Insta360 One X2
- Olympus Tough TG-6
- Sony RX100 VII
- Panasonic Lumix G100
- Fujifilm X100V
- Fujifilm X-T200
- Sony A7 Mark III
- Fujifilm X-T4
- Canon EOS 80D
- Panasonic G7
- Nikon Coolpix A900
- Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II
- Sony A6500
- How to Choose The Best Cameras for Video Recording
- Is Nikon or Canon Better?
- Is GoPro Good for Making YouTube Videos?
- Is Nikon Good for Videos?
Insta360 One X2
13
Insta 360 One X2 will be great for creating immersive content for your social media channels. This tiny device is fun to use and so powerful. It can capture 360-degree videos in 5.7K resolution through its 18.4-megapixel sensor. Bring the real atmosphere to your followers since the Insta 360 One X2 also comes with built-in four audio mics.
Another great thing about this waterproof pocket camera is its SteadyCam mode. It allows you to capture steady videos at wide angles. And did we forget to mention the touch screen? It’s so bright that you’ll be sure of what you’re doing. The improved Deep Track feature makes recording moving objects much easier. If you want to release your inner vlogger this holiday season, the Insta 360 One X2 is one of your best cameras for video recording.
Pros
- Waterproof up to 10 meters
- 5.7K video resolution
- AI-powered Shot Lab
- Improved audio recording
Cons
- The battery life could be better
Buy on:
Olympus Tough TG-6
12
Want to capture some underwater videos during this holiday season? Why not! With the Olympus Tough TG-6, you can share all your exciting aquatic adventures. This beast can deliver high-quality imagery up to 50 feet below the surface of the water without any additional casing! Not only that, but the TG-6 is also rated at 6.8 ft for shockproof and 14F for freezeproof.
Another exciting feature is GPS capture and overlays. It allows you to sort videos and photos based on location. Furthermore, the Olympus Tough TG-6 can record 4K underwater videos at 120 fps. It’s not surprising then that PCMag, one of the most acclaimed tech publications, has named this device one of the best cameras for video and photography.
New to photography? Check out our 13 best digital cameras for beginners. They’re incredibly versatile and come with interchangeable lenses, which is perfect when you’re ready to take your photography game to the next level.
Pros
- Waterproof
- High resolution
- Variable macro system
- 5 underwater shooting modes
Cons
- The default setting results in low quality photos
Buy on:
Sony RX100 VII
11
The Sony RX100 VII is a major technological milestone. This tiny device only weighs about 302 grams but has all the features that put it on par with the best Canon DSLR camera for video recording. The built-in lens has a range of 24-200mm, allowing you to see more. It’s not interchangeable, but Sony includes a great set of features for you to play around with to make up for it. That includes Optical SteadyShot, continuous shooting mode at up to 20fps, and real-time AI tracking.
If you’re an active vlogger or a professional YouTuber, the Sony RX100 VII is a must. This small camera has an impressive autofocus touch tracking system. There’s an external 3.5mm input for a microphone from the audio department. And in case you want to create some short content for your Instagram stories, you can shoot vertically to create smartphone-oriented videos.
Pros
- 20.1MP CMOS sensor
- High AF speed
- AI based real time tracking
- 4K videos
Cons
- No ‘real’ battery charger included
Buy on:
Panasonic Lumix G100
10
The Panasonic Lumix G100 is perfect when you’re just planning to start your vlogging adventure. This camera is easy to carry and simple to use. It comes with a flippable screen, essential for any content creator. With a single button press, the Lumix G100 will capture 4K video at 30 frames per second. For some variations, you can activate time-lapse or stop motion mode.
The Panasonic Lumix G100 boasts a vertical shooting mode for portrait orientation video. And in case you want to have more depth of field (hello, product review video creators!), activate the Clear Background mode for more concentrated focus. If you’re still unsure about the best cameras with video recording to get your hands on, the Lumix G100 won’t let you down.
Pros
- Crystal clear 4K resolution
- Use as a Webcam
- Handy frame marker
- Lightweight
Cons
- The included carrying case could be better
Buy on:
Fujifilm X100V
9
Easily intimidated by complicated manual settings? Then the Fujifilm X100V is for you. There’s not much you need to do to squeeze the quality images out of this thing. Just point, shoot, and you’re done! This is why many travelers consider this device as one of the best cameras for video and photography. It’s easy, practical, and able to deliver excellent output.
The Fujifilm X100V’s secret lies in its advanced 26MP X-Trans APS-C sensor. It allows you to capture up to 10 minutes of 4K resolution video. 125 if you prefer a high-definition resolution. There’s a 2.5mm audio jack and a dedicated mode for enabling AF throughout your shot for vlogging purposes. Sadly, the X100V doesn’t have any stabilization feature. However, Fujifilm makes up for this with an impressive shooting range. If you’re looking for the best cameras for video and photography, this one will make an excellent choice.
Pros
- Built-in flash
- 26.1 megapixel
- Compact
- 55 minutes of 4K video
Cons
- No image stabilization
Buy on:
Fujifilm X-T200
8
Here comes another excellent mirrorless camera from Fuji. The Japan-based brand is a serial winner for entry-level devices, and the Fuji X-T200 is no exception. It comes with an LCD touch screen that can rotate up to 180 degrees and record 4K resolution video at 30 frames per second. If you decide to take a different artistic direction on your vacation videos, activate the HDR movie mode for increased dynamic range.
Creating content for Instagram? Take advantage of the square aspect mode and edit your footage directly in the camera. Once you’re done, connect to the WiFi and share your creations on the go! If you can’t get your hands on the best Canon DSLR camera for video recording and aren’t interested in messing around with manual settings, the X-T200 is for you.
Pros
- Interchangeable lenses
- 24.2 megapixel
- Mirrorless
- Compact
Cons
- We’re still working on that!
Buy on:
Sony A7 Mark III
7
First released in 2018, the Sony A7 Mark III is hands down one of the best cameras for video recording ever made. This full-frame camera is perfect for a range of different tasks. From capturing action-packed sequences to documenting casual trips. Its 24.5-megapixel sensor can record 6K video at 24 frames per second. Thanks to the impressive dynamic range, capturing fast moments won’t be a problem.
There’s the Eye AF for easy eye tracking. Combine that with a weather-sealed body, and you should be able to capture any wildlife during your vacation with ease. Want to monitor sound? Just plug your favorite headphones into the available jack. If you have 2,000 bucks to spend and don’t want to compromise on quality, don’t hesitate to get yourself an A7 Mark III.
In case you’re working on a limited amount of money, you may want to check out our 13 best digital cameras on a budget. There we’ve rounded up some affordable pocket cameras that can still produce some great photos and videos.
Pros
- Advanced 24.2MP BSI
- 15 stops dynamic range
- AE/AF tracking
- 710 shots battery life
Cons
- The menu is a bit of a mess
Buy on:
Fujifilm X-T4
6
When it comes to the best camera for video and photography, you can’t really go wrong with the Fujifilm X-T4. Shining on video recording and capable of doing a remarkable job of capturing imagery, the X-T4 is one of the best travel cameras on the market today. It has everything you’d expect from a great camera unit: a large battery, stabilizer features, and impressive autofocus.
The X-T4 is claimed to be able to shoot a 4K video for up to 85 minutes before the battery runs out. It can also produce footage at 15 frames per second, which is quite impressive for a camera with a smaller APS-C sensor. For easier quality checking, there’s a wide 3.69m-dot viewfinder screen.
Pros
- Built-in stabilizer
- Mechanical shutter
- Versatile
- Wide, bright viewfinder
Cons
- The auto focus isn’t as good as Sony or Canon
Buy on:
Canon EOS 80D
5
Boasting a 24.3-megapixel sensor, the Canon EOS 80D promises super impressive autofocus. The Japanese-based brand calls it Dual Pixel. We prefer to call it magic because that’s how it works!
All you have to do locks the object you’re aiming at. The camera will then automatically track it and keep focus locked across the entire frame. Regardless of your skill, you’ll be able to produce a professional quality image! The only drawback is that this camera doesn’t support 4K video recording. But apart from that, this is the best Canon DSLR camera for video recording that’s worth trying.
Pros
- Impressive autofocus
- Intelligent viewfinder
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Refined quality
Cons
- Doesn’t support 4K video
Buy on:
Panasonic G7
4
Looking for something travel-friendly? The Panasonic G7 is your answer. This compact device has it all, from fold-out displays, 4K video, to nice ergonomics. We also love the fact that it’s now available at an affordable price. Even after Sony and Fujifilm released their latest budget cameras, the G7 is still one of the most sensible choices to this day.
Being a tiny mirrorless camera, the Panasonic G7 boasts a compact body that makes it perfect for travel. While the battery life isn’t nearly as impressive as the Canon or Nikon, it should be more than adequate for some casual documentation. If you want a budget solution for 4K video recording, the G7 is one of the best cameras with video recording to get.
Pros
- 16-megapixel sensor
- 4K video recording
- Intuitive controls
- High-visibility Viewfinder
Cons
- The battery life isn’t that great
Buy on:
Nikon Coolpix A900
3
The Nikon Coolpix A900 is all about simplicity. No wrestling with confusing ISO settings, no need to choose a shutter speed, nothing. All you have to do is point and shoot. It’s as simple as that! You can even keep this tiny camera in your purse or backpack and not think about it for the next few hours.
From a technical point of view, the Nikon Coolpix A900 comes with a 20-megapixel sensor. It’s not much, but more than enough to produce some great content for your social media channels. For video, the A900 can record UHD 4K video at 30 frames per second. And since the LCD screen is foldable, it’s also great for vlogging and selfie purposes. If you’re not amused by the idea of fiddling around with manual settings, the A900 is one of the best cameras for video recording worth considering.
Interested in something a little nostalgic? Check out our 13 best instant print cameras for travel. Find some great camera units that combine digital ease and a nostalgic retro feel.
Pros
- Simple
- 20-megapixel sensor
- UHD 4K videos
- Compact
Cons
- The battery life isn’t the best
Buy on:
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II
2
Olympus is one name you can trust when it comes to compact cameras. Compared to Panasonic, Olympus products have a certain aesthetic to them and the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is no exception. This compact camera exudes a real aesthetic vibe in a silver body. You can leave the camera hanging around your neck and it would make a cool accessory to have.
Enough with the looks, let’s talk about performance. The OM-D E-M10 Mark II comes with an impressive 8.5fps burst mode and the mandatory 4K mode. Create professional-style content with the help of the excellent 5-axis image stabilization system. It’ll come in handy when you want to capture some footage while on the road and don’t want to be bothered by some extra heavy equipment. In short, if steady shots mean everything to you, then the Mark II is one of the best cameras for video and photography you’re looking for.
Pros
- 5-axis image stabilization
- 2.3 million dot OLED viewfinder
- 8.5 frames per second burst shooting
- Multiple AF
Cons
- The menu can be quite confusing
Buy on:
Sony A6500
1
Coming with a 24.2-pixel APS-C Exmore sensor, the Sony A6500 is more than just a capable camera unit. It’s able to deliver professional-quality images with only minimal effort. Even better, the 4K videos are impressive too! For stabilization, the camera boasts a 5-axis IBIS. However, you better pay attention to your hand movements, as the A6500 is a bit prone to distortion.
Regardless, the Sony A6500 is a perfect travel device. It’s easy to use and compact. Some people have reported that their camera is overheating, but this only happens when it’s used for extensive periods. If you can’t get your hands on the best Canon DSLR camera for video recording, this one will make a no less impressive substitution.
Pros
- 24.2MP APS-C Exmor sensor
- 5-axis stabilization
- 4K videos
- Touch AF
Cons
- There are complaints about overheating
Buy on:
How to Choose The Best Cameras for Video Recording
Just like we said earlier, picking up a camera for the holidays can be overwhelming. There are plenty of important things to consider. When you’re in the market hunting for the best cameras for video recording, you might want to spend some extra time thinking about weight, ease of use, and durability. The situation might get more complicated though, especially when you start putting the price into the equation.
But fear not, because we’re here to support you! Below, we’ve rounded up the three most important factors to think about when choosing the best cameras for video and photography. And since this guide is fairly general, you can also apply it when choosing the best Canon DSLR camera for video recording. With that being said, let’s get started!
Use
When looking for the best cameras with video recording, you need to take a moment to step back and think about what ‘best’ means to you. For us, it really depends on how you plan to use the camera. If ‘best’ means great for recording action-packed activities, then you should go with action cameras. On the other hand, if you think that the ‘best’ is one that doesn’t cost you much, then you should start considering a budget or second-hand camera.
Quality
Next, think about what kind of quality you expect from your camera. Most of the best cameras for video and photography currently available in the market can produce videos with decent resolutions. They should be fine if you only plan to show your videos or photos on smaller platforms, like social media channels. On the other hand, if you’re a pro, then you’ll probably need a full-frame camera with the ability to capture images at full high definition 4K resolution.
Dirty lenses are a big no when you’re a pro when it comes to photography. That being said, check out our 13 best camera lens cleaner kits, where we’ve rounded up some of the most recommended kits to make sure you keep capturing crystal-clear images!
Sensors
Sensors will determine how good the captured image is. For example, the best Canon DSLR cameras for video recording generally come with full-frame sensors. This allows the camera to deliver more professional photos. But of course, you’ll still need the right set of skills to ensure that.
Is Nikon or Canon Better?
Nikon is generally much better than Canon when it comes to low-light performance. However, this will depend on which camera you’re using. Apart from that, your skillset will also play a crucial part in determining the final result.
Is GoPro Good for Making YouTube Videos?
While it was originally built for shooting action-packed sequences, recent GoPro units like the Hero 9 Black are built as compact all-around cameras. It’s definitely more than capable for YouTube vlogs and creating some other social media content.
In case you’re having a hard time deciding which camera to get, check out our 13 best digital camera brands. Get some great insights on how to shape your photography style and build your gear collection.
Is Nikon Good for Videos?
Nikon cameras are known for their high ISO performance, which makes shooting video under low light conditions easier. But of course, this doesn’t necessarily apply to all Nikon products. Other than that, you probably don’t really need that ISO performance when you’re shooting most of your footage outside.