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The best budget video cameras show that good tools for making movies don’t have to cost a fortune. We’ve put together a list of the best budget video cameras, whether you want an easy-to-use action cam, a cheap compact for vlogging, or a decently priced 4K mirrorless model.
Through hours of real-world testing, we’ve assembled a ranked list of the top options for filmmakers with a limited production budget.
This guide to the best budget video cameras is great if you are just starting out with video or if you are on a tight budget. Even though the average iPhone can take great videos, the cameras and camcorders on this list are much more useful.
Best Budget Video Cameras
GoPro Hero9 Black
Specifications
| Weight | 158g |
| Waterproof | 10m |
| Battery life | 1-3hrs estimate |
| Stills resolution | 20MP |
The best budget video cameras difference between the GoPro Hero 8 and the GoPro Hero 9 is that the Hero 9 has an LCD screen on the front. Now, if you mostly use it mounted to your helmet, chest, or handlebars, you probably won’t find it all that useful.
However, it’s a great addition if you use it for vlogging, as a webcam, or to take selfies. It also has a 20-megapixel sensor and can shoot up to 5K video, which might be too much, but it’s nice to have! You can also take stills from the video with a resolution of 14.7 megapixels.
Pros
- Superb image stabilization system
- Excellent 5K video
- Built-in accessory mounts
Cons
- Bigger than the Hero8 and Hero7
Panasonic Lumix G9
Specifications
| Resolution | 20.3MP |
| Viewfinder | 3.68m-dot EVF |
| Monitor | 1.04m-dot articulating screen |
| Movies | 4K at 60fps |
About 30 LUMIX and LEICA DG lenses are compatible with the professional-grade Panasonic LUMIX 4K digital camera DC-G9, which is based on the next-generation interchangeable lens camera standard that Panasonic created.
The mirrorless design lets the best budget video cameras body be smaller, lighter, and easier to carry. The strong magnesium alloy body is resistant to water, dust, and freezing temperatures. Bluetooth for quick connections and image sharing, and 5-axis Dual for lightning-fast focusing.
Pros
- Wide range of video options
- 6.5-stage in-body stabilization
- Good build quality and handling
Cons
- Lower video specs than GH5
Sony FDRAX53/B 4K HD
Specifications
| Dimensions | 7.44 x 5.91 x 4.25 inches |
| Weight | 2.54 pounds |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required |
| Manufacturer | Sony |
Since many people who make content like the way compact and mirrorless cameras balance photography and videography, it can be easy to forget about dedicated camcorders. The Sony FDRAX53/B is a great example.
It has great video resolution and a wide range of tools that can be used to make results that look professional. This best budget video cameras is easy to carry and built to last. It can be used without a tripod thanks to the Balanced Optical Steady Shot feature.
Pros
- Live streaming capabilities
- Great in-body image stabilization
- Bright and colorful video quality
- 4K video modes
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Small sensor
Panasonic Lumix ZS100
Specifications
| Color | Black |
| Screen Size | 3 Inches |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Optical Zoom | 10 x |
All of Panasonic’s newest best budget video cameras, no matter how much they cost or how good they are, can record 4K video. This is a huge benefit for people who are just starting out. This feature isn’t found on very many cheap models.
This device can record up to 120 frames per second of 1080p video and 30 frames per second of 4K video. The quality of the video is great. They call it the best point-and-shoot camera for video because of this.
Pros
- Large zoom
- Amazing video quality
- Full HD and 4K video shooting
- Small and comfy
Cons
- Average AF speed
- Low light makes the video look bad.
Sony Alpha ZV-E10 With 16-50mm Lens
Specifications
| Camera type | Mirrorless |
| Max video resolution | 4K |
| Still image resolution | 24.4 megapixels |
| Weight | 12.8 ounces |
The Alpha ZV-E10 is small and light, and it has features that make it a good choice for vloggers and other people who want to make videos. This best budget video cameras has lenses that can be switched out and a touchscreen that can be turned.
With the press of a button, you can instantly blur the background while focusing on a subject. Other video features include automatic face exposure, Product Showcase, subject tracking, and more.
Pros
- Interchangeable lenses
- Compact design
- Livestream capabilities
Cons
- Little bit confusing
Nikon D3500
Specifications
| Dimensions | 4.88 x 2.76 x 3.82 inches |
| Weight | 13.8 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Nikon |
| Color | Black |
The Nikon D3500 is best budget video cameras that looks great and takes great pictures. It is great for traveling because it is small, light, and the grip is made of rubber.
There are many choices to select from in manual mode, and the button arrangement is straightforward but effective. Its 24mp sensor can pick up fine details, and even with the kit lens, it works well in low light.
Pros
- Great image quality.
- The battery life is great.
- New users can use Guide Mode.
Cons
- Made out of plastic.
Nikon COOLPIX P1000
Specifications
| Dimensions | 5.76 x 7.14 x 4.68 inches |
| Weight | 3.12 Pounds |
| Screen Size | 3.2 Inches |
| Warranty | 1year |
The Nikon Coolpix P1000 lets you get right into the action by letting you shoot things that are far away. Nikon’s most powerful zoom lens, which measures 3,000mm, is built into the best budget video cameras.
In fact, the Coolpix P1000’s lens is one-of-a-kind and one of the best on the market. The 3.2-inch LCD screen on the video camera will let you see how far you’ve come. In addition to the optical lens, the resolution of the video camera adds to its ability to zoom.
Pros
- Large zoom
- Perfect LCD screen
- 4K support
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth let you control the remote.
Cons
- A rather high price
- Big size
FAQs
What type of camera is best for recording videos?
- Sony A7R IV.
- Nikon Z9.
- Nikon Z6 II.
- Sony Alpha A7 III.
- Canon EOS R5.
What is better than 4K on a video camera?
8k, often termed Super Hi-Vision, is a step up from 4k. International broadcast standards define 8k resolution as 7680 pixels by 4320 pixels. This means that your recording device can capture 4 times more detail than 4k recording.
What camera brand is best for video?
- Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro.
- Canon EOS C200B.
- Canon EOS C100 Mark II.
- Blackmagic Pocket CC.
- Panasonic HC-X1.