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Our Expert Guide to the BEST Travel Cameras in 2024

Last Updated: December 13, 2023

We’ve spent years working as professional travel photographers, and are proud to have put together this definitive guide to the best travel cameras in 2024 for every budget, based on actual hands-on experience.

One of the best souvenirs you can bring home from your adventures abroad is photographs.

As the old saying goes, pictures are worth a thousand words, and nothing brings back the excitement and thrill of holiday memories quite like looking back at your photos.

These days almost everybody has a decent camera in their pocket, thanks to the wonders of modern smartphones. And while these are fine for the average person, if you really want great image quality, you’re going to have to invest in something better.

People say, “It’s not the camera that takes good photos, it’s the photographer”, and this is completely true. Yet there’s a reason professionals use expensive gear – they are better for the job.

Never fear though, that doesn’t mean you need to go out and spend $10k on a set-up! Definitely not.

Church Of The Good Shepherd Best Travel Camera

In fact this article is going to save you time and money by diving straight into the best travel camera for every budget.

So why listen to us?

We’ve been working as professional travel photographers for almost a decade, and have been fortunate enough to put hundreds of cameras to the test during our career.

Based on our personal experience, we’ve been able to narrow down the absolute top choice in every category.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or professional, or even if you know nothing at all, we’ll help you make the right choice so you don’t waste your money getting something that just isn’t up to the job.

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide on how to take better travel photos .

Let’s dive into our comprehensive guide for the best camera for travel photography.

Table of Contents

Our Recommendation

Bonus: recommended lenses for sony a6600, bonus: recommended lenses for sony a7iv, size and weight, resolution/megapixels, interchangeable lenses, manual settings, weatherproofing, stabilization, mirrorless vs dslr, what camera do most professional photographers use, what camera is best for travel videos, what is the best small camera for travel, what is the best travel camera in 2024.

Without further ado, let’s get into the article!

Disclaimer – NOMADasaurus is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and the Amazon EU Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

GoPro HERO12 Black – The Best Action Camera

Action cameras have come a long way since we bought our first one back in 2010.

They used to be reserved just for people who were into extreme sports – skiing, skydiving, motocross, scuba diving, etc.

Now they have become one of the top travel cameras on the market thanks to their durability, compact size and high quality.

The good ones shoot in at least 4K video (this one though actually goes up to 5.3k), are completely waterproof and even connect to your phone so can take great photos from any angle.

They also shoot time-lapse photography, which is great if you’re catching an epic sunrise or particularly busy urban scene.

Even if you are not interested in jumping off of cliffs or mountain biking through a jungle, having an action compact camera is still a brilliant tool to have in your suitcase.

They are especially awesome if you’re looking for the best cameras for adventure travel.

The undisputed king of action sports cameras is GoPro, and we’ve been proudly using them for over 13 years.

These epic cameras have insane image quality and shoot some remarkable video. They’re also extremely durable, waterproof and fit in your pocket.

Adding to the GoPro series is a huge range of accessories that makes getting footage limited by only your imagination.

Check out our brand new GoPro HERO12 Black review to see if it’s right for you!

Different mounts allow you to put them just about anywhere, extension poles get unique angles (perfect for selfies), you can stick a GoPro on a tripod and there are even filters available.

We’ve had just about every GoPro camera since the original HERO was released, and we’re super excited to share that the newest one on the market is by far the best ever.

Their latest camera is the GoPro HERO12 Black , following hot off the heels of the successful HERO11 (click the link to read our review of it), and it’s risen the bar once again.

When the HERO7 came out they introduced a number of revolutionary features, such as HyperSmooth (in-built image stabilisation), TimeWarp (awesome hyper-lapse videos) and SuperPhoto (HDR photos on steroids).

The HERO9 added a front-facing LCD screen, which really stepped things up a notch, especially for vloggers.

The HERO10 brought in the new GP2 processor, which made everything work, well, just better.

The HERO11 went bonkers with a brand new larger sensor, 10-bit colour and all new aspect ratio.

And now with the HERO12 the company has gone and made everything more refined with a host of new features and upgraded battery life.

Boasting the fantastic GP2 processor, 1/1.9″ sensor and 8:7 aspect ratio, the latest GoPro HERO12 Black now has HDR video to go along with the expert camera settings.

The massive aspect ratio gives more room to crop, so you can shoot in one perspective and scale later for portrait social media content or landscape YouTube videos.

The camera shoots in 5.3k 60 frames per second, 4k at 120fps and 2.7k at a whopping 240fps (8x slow motion), which also allowing for 27 megapixel screen grabs when using 5.3k on the full 8:7 ratio.

The stabilization is even better with HyperSmooth 6.0 (in-built horizon levelling up to 360 degrees), TimeWarp 4.0 allows to switch between hyper-lapse, real-time and slow-mo recording in the same video with a tap of the screen, and the SuperPhoto has improved HDR abilities.

The screens are still very responsive and look excellent.

SuperPhoto for photographers, in particular, means you can point and shoot, and barely have to edit before uploading to social media. Although we still recommend shooting in RAW for the pros out there.

This article talks more about how to take better GoPro photos, written by a pro.

For the purists out there, the GoPro HERO12 shoots in RAW format for all photo modes.

There is still voice activation and the entire unit is waterproof to 10m, meaning there is no need for a dive housing if you’re not going below that depth.

Also the all-new Night Effects modes are really awesome. Who would have thought you could capture light trails and the Milky Way on such a tiny camera?

For the video gurus out there the HERO12 is a gimbal killer. What does that mean? It means HyperSmooth 6.0 is on another level.

The HERO7 stabilisation was amazing for vlogging and action sports, as was the HERO8 and 9, but after testing the new HERO12, the stabilisation is even better again. Don’t know how they do it, but they do! And it works at 4K at 120fps, TimeWarp and live streaming!

Want slow motion? How does 2.7k at 240FPS sound? Buttery smooth, that’s for sure.

Whereas in previous models they had White, Silver and Black models, the HERO12 only has a Black model.

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Canon Powershot SX740HS – The Best Affordable Camera

If you want a dedicated camera that is cheap and still takes decent photos then you really are spoiled for choice.

We’ve personally owned a whole range of different brands in this range, from Canon to Fuji to Olympus to Sony, and with the way the best travel camera market is now if you’re not fussy about the brand you get, then you can’t really go wrong. But let us explain what you’ll need.

You’ll basically be looking for a small point and shoot, something that is foolproof and most importantly quite durable. Having a big zoom range is a big bonus so you can crop right in on different scenes.

The ability to use manual settings will come in handy if you ever want to play around and learn a bit more about how photography works.

And you want something affordable so that you won’t be overly worried if you lose it (just make sure you backup your photos).

The Canon Powershot SX720HS was a hugely successful compact camera, and Canon backed it up with the amazing SX730HS to become the best budget travel camera.

But like all good camera companies, Canon has stepped it up a notch again by bringing out the newest model in the range, the SX740HS .

This great little travel camera does it all, and for the price, it is the best travel zoom camera out there.

40x optical zoom, manual settings, shoots in 4K video, good color grading, and it is one of the better compact cameras out there.

It also has wifi so you can transfer photos straight to your phone or laptop without plugging it in, or control the camera from your phone. Perfect for the general traveler who just wants something to take decent photos with on their trip.

It also has a large articulated screen, so you can angle your shots perfectly, whether you’re shooting from the ground or above the head.

A few more updates over the SX730HS is an improved small sensor, meaning better low light capabilities, and faster burst shooting, cementing its position as the best budget camera for travelling.

READ MORE: Check out our latest guide on the best camera accessories !

Sony RX100 vii – The Best Compact Camera for Travel

This is the next level up. You still want the portability and benefits of having a point and shoot, but you want to take incredible photos too.

You’re interested in learning about the fundamentals of photography, and perhaps want to one day print your photos or maybe put them up online. Ultimately you’re after the best pocket camera for travel.

Here are the things you’ll need: Full manual control, a decent size sensor, zoom, high-quality video, flip screen (so you can shoot from different angles while still framing your shot), ability to shoot in RAW format, good ISO performance and a wide aperture.

This is the category that most people will be in. So if you’re asking yourself what is the best compact digital camera for traveling, read on…

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide to the best landscape photography tips !

This is, in our opinion, the best point and shoot camera for travel on the market. It does everything you’ll ever need it to do and has incredible image quality in a premium compact size.

Sony have completely revolutionized the market with the RX100 range, and with each update it just gets better and better.

Without a doubt there’s no better option for the best compact camera for travel out there than the Sony RX100 vii right now.

The Mark 7 has a very long zoom range (8.6x optical, up from 3.6x optical, which is like having a 24-200mm lens), an amazing 20mp one-inch sensor to capture huge dynamic range, high quality 4K video and an articulating flip screen.

It’s an expensive camera, yes, but if you want the absolute best quality on the market in a small, compact unit that fits in your pocket, this is the best travel camera out right now.

BONUS TIP – If you want to create travel vlogs and have a decent camera for photography too, this is the model for you!

Canon G7X Mark iii – Best Camera for Vlogging

Vlogging is the newest craze, and it’s quite literally taking over as the new digital media of choice for many travelers and influencers.

If making videos is more your style instead of taking photos, then you’re going to want to look at a camera that has a range of specific features.

Most importantly is the ability to shoot in 4K (even if not many people have 4K monitors today, in a few years it will be common and you’re going to want to have footage to match the current standard).

Once you’ve got this another handy feature is an articulated LCD screen that can face you while you’re talking in the lens.

This allows you to frame your shot instead of cutting off half your head. Lastly you’ll want a microphone jack to catch better audio.

Get the camera, start filming and put some great videos up on YouTube ! Sounds easy, right? But what is the best travel camera for vlogging…

We’ve used more vlogging cameras than we can remember, from full-frame setups to GoPros and even putting to the test the brand new Sony ZV-1F .

But what have we settled on?

The Canon G7X Mark ii has always been considered the ultimate travel camera for vlogging, but it fell short in a few different categories.

That’s all changed now with the newest upgrade, the G7X Mark iii .

Shooting fantastic 4k video, this travel camera now has an in-built microphone jack for improved audio, a flip-up touchscreen for keeping your face in frame, and has a faster start-up time than previously.

The image quality is also much better now, and with manual control functions it really is a premium compact travel camera.

Sony A6600 – Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel

You’ve broken out of the realm of standard point and shoots, and you’re looking for a camera that has interchangeable lenses.

You’re getting into the idea of shooting wide, or perhaps portrait shots. Maybe you really would like to get a longer zoom.

Most of all, you really want to get serious about photography.

In your kit will be a range of lenses for a range of situations. You can look at getting filters to give beautiful effects on your shots. You might even want to start growing your photography portfolio .

A few years ago everyone would have recommended you to get an entry-level DSLR. This is no longer the case.

With the way mirrorless technology has gone DSLRs are losing traction and popularity. Now you can get something with the same image quality for half the size.

The Sony A6600 is an absolute powerhouse and puts up a good fight for being the ultimate travel camera.

For entry-level mirrorless cameras, Sony broke the mould by introducing the A6000 a few years ago. Since then every model has been lightyears ahead of the competition.

The latest A6600 is their newest offering, and for a compact camera, it is seriously next level.

It boasts one of the fastest autofocus capabilities of any camera on the market, an improved APS-C sensor capable of high-level video and great image quality, a touch-enabled articulating LCD screen and excellent electronic viewfinder.

The range of lenses available for this Sony mirrorless camera is huge, and manages to cover all bases for whether you want to shoot 4K video or take images that you can sell to magazines.

You can really get away with the standard lenses that come in most kits, but there are a couple of exceptions that you could splurge out for.

All Sony E mount lenses will fit onto the Sony A6XXX series (including the spectacular full-frame range, with a crop factor).

So if you are ever considering an upgrade to full frame and want to buy some new lenses for your APS-C sensor, you can fork out the money early and still use your lenses later on.

Best Wide Angle Lens

There’s really only one option in this range, and it’s the brilliant 10-18mm F4 . To this day one of the best photos we’ve seen taken of the Petronas Towers was taken with a Sony A6000 (older model) and this lens.

Best Portrait Lens

The Sony 50mm F1.8 is a great choice for a native portrait lens. It’s light, fast and cheap.

The quality is decent without being amazing, but it definitely does a wonderful job for what you pay for.

Otherwise step up to the FE 55mm F1.8 (read about it below), although this will give you a 85mm perspective on the APS-C sensor.

Best Zoom Lens

Keeping with the affordable and light range that makes for great travel camera lenses, we recommend the Sony 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 .

For the amateur and hobbyist photographer, this will do just about everything you need and is a solid lens to have in your kit.

Sony A7iv – Best Professional Camera for Travel Photography

If you’re like us and want to make capturing the absolute best images of your travels a priority, then you’ll be looking at a professional range of travel cameras.

Following on from the discussion on mirrorless vs DSLR above, you’ll get many professional photographers who choose to stick to cameras like the Canon 6D or 5D series, or the Nikon D750 or D810.

These are legendary cameras in the industry, and with the enormous range of lenses available for each one, there’s a reason the best in the business use them.

But, we’re talking about travel cameras. And for this, we recommended sticking to mirrorless.

Full frame DSLRs are big and heavy, whereas their equivalent in mirrorless are a fraction of the size.

If you have decided you want to take the leap to a full frame sensor and want to be rocking the best mirrorless camera for travel, then you have only two choices.

READ MORE: But you need to carry everything, right? Here’s our new expert guide to the best camera backpacks on the market today!

Sony was the first major camera producer to create a full frame mirrorless camera, and while Canon has finally caught up, Sony has years of research and development on their side.

The Sony A7 series is almost flawless. Fantastic image quality, 4K video capabilities (on the A7R, A7S and the A7iv), articulating LCD screens, wifi, light, compact and a whole range of native lenses available for it makes them the absolute best cameras for traveling.

And with the Metabones adaptors you can even use your old Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Samyang or other type of lenses on it.

As of 2024, Sony’s top cameras are the A1, A7iv, A7Siii, A7Rv and the A9ii. Now while the A9ii, A7Rv and A1 are absolute beasts of cameras, the truth is you most likely don’t need all the features they have.

We currently own the A7iv and A7Rv, and for professional travel photography, they are the best on the market.

The image quality is superb and the dynamic range is insane. The low light capabilities are also amazing. Even at ISO 12800, there’s barely any noise that shows up on the shot compared to a compact camera.

We personally recommend the A7iv as the best travel camera out there , as it’s just damn near perfect, especially as a hybrid photo and video camera.

4K video with 60fps, a lightning-fast autofocus system, joystick control, touch screen, fast processor, upgraded full frame sensor and amazing battery life.

If you’re the kind of person that loves to blow up their images for print, or does a lot of cropping when you edit your shots, then that’s the only reason you’ll want to step up to the A7Rv, as it has a 62mp sensor.

But wait – isn’t the brand new Sony A7Rv the best in class right now? Yes, it is. However, while it is absolutely incredible and takes things up another notch, it’s quite expensive and the megapixel count is likely not something you need..

Instead we recommend that you save your money on the body, put what’s left over towards some lenses, and get the A7iv be your go to camera for travel photography.

If you’re going for the Sony A7 series, we’ve got some bad news for you. Full frame lenses are expensive.

But if you’re considering turning your photography hobby into a profession, then this is a small sacrifice to make for the quality of photos you’ll be taking.

Trust us, if you’re buying the best camera for travel photography on the market, you’ll want to also have the best lenses to go with it.

The great thing with the Sony Alpha series is that their lenses are all interchangeable, meaning if you start out with a Sony A6600 and eventually upgrade to a Sony A7iv, you can take your old lenses and put them on the new camera (but it will have a crop factor).

Best All-Round Lens

The new FE 24-105mm f4 lens from Sony is pretty much the best all round travel zoom lens for photography.

It’s damn sharp, and with a constant aperture of f4, it means you can get excellent bokeh and decent low-light performance at any focal length.

This lens practically lives on our A7iv, as it’s so versatile, great for video and the image quality is fantastic.

The Sony 16-35mm f2.8 GM lens is one of the best wide angle lenses on the market, and when you throw it on your travel camera, you’re almost guaranteed to get fantastic shots.

Pretty much every review on photography sites raves about it, and having owned it for over three years now, we completely agree.

It’s not cheap, but to have such a fast and wide native lens for the Sony setup is pretty epic! If you want a cheaper alternative, check out the 16-35mm f4 , which is also very good.

Best Prime Lens

If you are into portrait or street photography make sure you get the FE 55mm F1.8 prime lens.

It’s very fast, very light and very sharp. And with such a good value, it may be the best prime lens that Sony makes (excluding the high-end GM series).

Owning a telephoto lens isn’t just about taking photos of wildlife or zooming in on things that are far away from you. It adds a whole new creative element known as lens compression to your arsenal.

This is the optical illusion that happens when the further you zoom into something, the bigger the background appears.

You start to get this effect from around 100mm and on, so if you’re looking for the best zoom lens to put on your Sony A7iv, consider the 70-200 f2.8 GMii lens, or the 100-400mm GM lens .

We have both of these zoom lenses, and we love love love them!

DJI Mavic Air 2 – The Best Drone for Travel

Aerial photography has gained in popularity over the last two years, and it’s easy to see why.

Not that long ago the only way to get photos from the sky was by taking a chartered flight or helicopter.

But today just about anyone can go out, buy a drone and start taking shots from very unique angles.

The appeal is obvious. Capturing epic photos and video of landscapes from a perspective that few have ever seen before.

From the moment we bought our first drone (a DJI Phantom 4) we fell in love with it.

Good drones up until now have always been quite prohibitive when it comes to travel due to their bulky size.

The DJI Phantom series helped make it more accessible for most people, but even then it was still a commitment to travel with one.

Today the best drone for travel has finally been determined.

The DJI Mavic series is what you should be looking for when considering a travel drone.

With foldable legs and compact size, they tick all the boxes for portability.

There are a few different models to consider, and it really depends on your needs.

If you’re a professional, we recommend the DJI Mavic 2 Pro , thanks to its 1-inch Hasselblad Sensor and 360-degree collision avoidance.

But just announced is the Mavic Air 2 , and with features like 48-megapixel photo mode, panorama capabilities and 4k video, it’s the best option for anybody trying to take travel photos from the air on their next trip.

Its small size and great value makes it perfect for travel, but one thing to consider is the fixed focal length, meaning you can’t zoom in to take photos.

Note – With whatever drone you buy we highly recommend buying extra batteries. You’ll be surprised how quickly you chew through these. Check out the bundle packages from DJI (called ‘Fly More’ on the Mavics).

GoPro Max – Best 360 Travel Camera

With virtual reality becoming more and more popular, it might be no surprise that one of the best travel cameras for 2024 is actually a 360-degree camera!

These incredible little devices come with multiple cameras on one piece, managing to capture an entire scene in one shot in both photos and high definition video.

When they first came out they were very poor quality, but now they’ve improved enough that we actually travel with one full-time now.

360 cameras became popular when the Chinese company Insta360 started to bring out their affordable options, but the image quality was always pretty poor.

Then GoPro stepped onto the scene with the Fusion, and it changed the industry forever.

With all the standard great features GoPro is known for, such as being waterproof, having awesome connectivity and packing it all into compact cameras, the Fusion took things to the next level.

It did require a bit of work to use though, and the stitching wasn’t great. Plus with two SD card slots required to save media, it was just that bit too cumbersome for most photographers.

Cue the Max!

The GoPro Max took the best parts of all their cameras and threw it together into one unit with this one.

The Max, with its dual lenses on either side of the body, now uses just one SD card, making storage and management so much easier, and it has a touch LCD screen that can be used on the go.

For people looking for travel cameras that can do it all, it doesn’t just shoot in 360-degree mode.

There is their ultra-wide single perspective, and for having a small sensor, the low light shots are surprisingly good.

If you’re a travel vlogger you’ll be amazed at the quality of this! The inbuilt microphones do a great job at picking up audio while cutting out background noise, and the battery life is great.

It shoots at 5.6k video quality and 30 frames per second. You can change the pitch, yaw, field of view and angles to get the view you desire.

Even more unique, it can create 360 time-lapses and hyper lapses with a simple click. No need to pull it up in a program like Adobe Premiere Pro to make your videos any more!

Best of all it connects seamlessly to your smartphone using the GoPro app, so you can do all your editing, sticking and keyframing on the go.

When it comes to a travel camera that tries to do it all, this one is hard to beat.

That concludes our list of the best cameras for traveling. Let us know if you have any other recommendations, or if you use any of these cameras while traveling the world!

How to Choose the Best Camera for Travel

No matter what level you are, the first piece of kit you are going to need to buy is the camera.

This can range from a cheap point-and-shoot right up to a top-of-the-line DSLR that can cost as much as a small car.

A quick visit to a camera store can leave you feeling completely overwhelmed with all the choices.

Keep on scrolling to find detailed information about each of these, and why they really are the best cameras for travel.

READ MORE: See what made the cut as the best travel tripod on the market in our expert guide!

What Features to Look for in a Travel Camera

There’s a number of different features that you need to look for when searching for the best travel camera to buy, based on your needs.

The first thing to look out for is how big and heavy a camera is.

When you’re on the road traveling, weight and space is a huge issue to overcome. You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy backpack full of gear if you don’t have to.

If you’re not a pro or a big enthusiast, we recommend checking out a compact camera or mirrorless camera, as they are smaller and more portable, while also providing decent image quality.

One thing that camera companies and salespeople like to preach about is megapixels. But what exactly does that mean?

A pixel is a tiny dot of color that you see on your computer or phone display. A megapixel is 1 million (actually 1,048,576 to be technically correct) of those dots. So ‘24 megapixels’ so about 24 million dots of color

You may hear that more megapixels equal better quality photos, but this isn’t entirely true.

The sensor has more to do with image quality than the resolution does, but it does play a small part.

In short don’t get caught up about more buying a camera with more megapixels, unless you’re planning on printing your images on billboards.

Instead just use this guide to the best travel cameras to find out exactly what is the best choice you can afford.

Cook Islands Palm Tree Tropical Water Best Travel Camera

One thing to consider when looking at the best travel camera is whether or not you can change the lens.

The reason this is important is that it gives you more choices down the road if you decide you want to get into different styles of photography.

A compact travel camera is most likely a fixed lens, meaning that whatever zoom range it comes with you can’t change.

A camera that you can change the lens on will let you upgrade to wide-angle lenses, a zoom lens, better maximum aperture options for low light performance, etc.

In general, if you can afford a mirrorless camera or DSLR, it’s worth buying.

A camera that allows you to change the manual settings gives you complete control over things like aperture, ISO and shutter speed.

This opens up a whole new world of creativity, and in our opinion, you shouldn’t consider a camera that doesn’t have this feature.

Luckily every recommendation on this list allows you to control those settings, even the GoPro HERO camera below!

It’s 2024 – make sure you get a camera that can shoot 4K video!

This provides much higher resolution when shooting video, and even if you don’t have a 4K monitor at home, you can always take that clip and watch it in high definition 1080p, or even crop into your footage.

Just beware that 4K video chews up your battery life, so make sure you have some spare ones!

Unless you plan on always being in perfect weather when you travel, it’s a good idea to get a camera that is either waterproof, or has good weather sealing.

Unfortunately you often have to compromise on a waterproof camera or a quality travel camera (unless you buy a GoPro), so we don’t recommend buying a camera that is fully waterproof.

Instead just make sure it has decent sealing, or look at buying an underwater housing if you want to get into underwater photography.

How far you can zoom in on a subject is very important when trying to decide the best travel camera.

If you buy a fixed lens camera, make sure it has a long zoom range, like a Canon Powershot or the Sony RX100vii.

Or if you buy a mirrorless camera or DSLR, you don’t have to worry about this as you can always upgrade later.

No matter how steady you think you are, you will almost always have a small amount of camera shake when taking handheld photos.

If you’re shooting at fast shutter speeds, this isn’t a problem. But if you’re photographing in low light, you can end up with motion blur.

Look out for cameras that have inbuilt image stabilization to counter this.

A DSLR ( digital single lens reflex ) works by having a mirror inside the camera. When you are looking through the viewfinder the mirror is down, covering the sensor, and you are looking at a reflected scene.

When you push the shutter the mirror flips up mechanically, allowing the image to be exposed onto the sensor, and then onto your SD card. All these moving parts take up room, hence why DSLRs are larger in size.

With mirrorless cameras, there are no moving parts inside. The image comes through the lens and directly onto the sensor.

There is an electronic viewfinder, meaning you are seeing a digital copy of what you’re pointing the camera at, rather than a live view.

So without a mirror constantly flipping, the camera can be made a lot smaller. That’s why mirrorless cameras can be half the size of a DSLR.

When mirrorless cameras first came out the quality wasn’t that great. Now they are just about on par with DSLRs, and the portability means that they are the best cameras for travel photography!

In case you’re not sure what we mean, this article goes into a bit more information, but in short, we recommend getting a mirrorless camera.

The 3 most popular cameras that pros use are the Canon 5Div, the Nikon D850 and the Sony A7Riv.

For general travel videos, the kind of stuff you would publish on YouTube, we recommend the Sony RX100vii. If you’re looking to create more cinematic videos, the A6600 is the best compact travel camera for videos.

If you need the best small camera for travel, you should buy the Canon SX740HS. Compact, high quality and affordable, this little beast is a fantastic travel camera.

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Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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What to Consider Before Buying the Best Travel Camera:

Personality : Are you a foodie who snaps a photo of every meal (like me), or a nature lover who loves to birdwatch (and needs a camera with a fast shutter speed to catch fledglings in action)? Vloggers will likely care a lot about a camera’s video-recording capabilities, while adrenaline junkies always on the go might prefer simpler models that are quick to react, even if they tend to generate lower-quality images. Make sure your camera well aligns with your travel persona, whatever it may be.

Durability: How tough does your camera need to be? What are the odds it will get scratched, crushed, or dropped? Most cameras aren’t made to withstand much, but there are some built to survive inclement weather and severe conditions. Depending on your intended use (and how careful you are in general with your stuff), pick a model that suits your habits and needs.

Dimensions: How much do you want to carry? Travel cameras are often described as “lightweight” and “compact,” but those terms can be pretty subjective. Seasoned landscape photographers who are used to toting around multiple lenses, filters, and other accessories might consider a two-pound build as “portable,” while concertgoers who tend to pack super light would probably imagine something more pocket size. Before you buy a camera, make sure you have a solid idea how it’ll look and feel in hand. Product photos online can be deceiving, so it’s best if you try it out in store to guarantee it’s a good fit. And don’t forget to take into account any add-ons (such as batteries and external flashes), which will increase a camera’s overall size and weight.

Best Overall Travel Camera

Sony cybershot rx100 vii camera.

I love my DSLR—but sometimes, it’s too bulky to take everywhere. In that case, I turn to this powerful little guy. If you’re looking for a lightweight pocket camera with all the essentials (and more), this sleek compact model is for you. Great for live performances and events (and for taking food pics!), the ultra-portable device effortlessly produces high-quality photos and videos. Fitted with a touchscreen that rotates 180 degrees (making it perfect for selfies), the user-friendly camera is easy to operate with one hand—so you’ll never have to put down your drink to capture a moment.

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 4 x 1.7 x 2.3 inches. Weight: 10.65 ounces. Sensor: 1-inch, 20.1 megapixels. Lens: 24-200 millimeter F2.8-4.5 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 2,360k dots.

Buy Now on Best Buy: $1,300

Best Travel Camera for Still Photography

Fujifilm x-t5 camera.

Whether you enjoy shooting portraits, wildlife, or streetscapes, this marvelous mirrorless camera—which comes with a weatherproof lens that ranges from wide-angle to medium-telephoto—is a valuable one to have in your photography arsenal. Lighter than its predecessor, the ergonomic model, whose in-body image stabilization system aptly minimizes shaking, produces outstanding JPEGs with incredible detail and less noise than its competitors.

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 14.3 x 2.8 x 9.9 inches (unfolded). Weight: 8.8 ounces. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 40.2 megapixels. Lens: 16-80 millimeter f/4-22 lens. Display: 3-inch touchscreen LCD display, 1,840k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $2,199

Best Rugged Travel Camera

Olympus om system tough tg-7 camera.

The best handheld for hard-core adventurers, this ultra-durable, featherweight camera can weather all the elements. Featuring anti-fog and impermeable to dust and water (up to 50 feet deep), the newly updated model can sustain getting crushed by a 220-pound force, survive a seven-foot drop, and won’t stop working in the cold—so you can truly take it anywhere. To boot, the point-and-shoot has five underwater modes and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth—not to mention 4K video for high-speed recordings.

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 4.48 x 2.59 x 1.28 inches. Weight: 8.78 ounces. Sensor: 1/1.3-inch, 12 megapixels. Lens: 25-100 millimeter f/2-4.9 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 1,040k dots.

Buy Now on Amazon: $550

Best Travel Camera for Landscape Photographers

Nikon d780 dslr camera.

Capture high-resolution stills and full-HD videos with this versatile camera (my must-have on scenic trips). The popular model features excellent subject tracking and an impressive battery life—plus, it works extremely well in low light. Built-in Wifi and Bluetooth allow you to instantaneously transfer files to your drive on the go, and dual SD card slots guarantee you’ll never run out of memory while snapping photos in the wild.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $2,797

Best Rangefinder Travel Camera

Leica m10-r camera.

Known for meticulously crafting products using precision engineering (by hand ), Leica has well earned its reputation for delivering high-quality cameras around the globe. The German brand’s M10-R is the paragon of a modern-day rangefinder, offering razor-sharp focus and unparalleled image quality. The quiet operator has an extended shutter speed range that allows you to make exposures up to 16 minutes long at night and in low light. And the camera’s compact body is made from solid blocks of brass and magnesium alloy that’s rubber sealed to keep out dust and water, ensuring durability.

Type: Rangefinder. Dimensions: 5.5 x 1.5 x 3.1 inches. Weight: 23.28 ounces. Sensor: Full-frame CMOS, 40.89 megapixels. Lens: Not included. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 1,036k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $8,995

Best Instant Travel Camera

Mint camera slr670-s instant film camera.

There’s something extra fun about shooting with a vintage Polaroid. Mint Camera’s revamp of the classic SX-70 preserves its iconic folding design, though it comes with a few handy updates, including the ability to adjust exposure using a brightness control wheel. The external Time Machine module provides complete control over the camera’s shutter speeds, and an improved SLR viewfinder offers sharper manual focus.

Type: Instant. Dimensions: 4.21 x 7.09 x 1.69 inches. Weight: 21.16 ounces. Sensor: N/A. Lens: 116 millimeter f/1.7 lens. Display: N/A.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $879

Best Advanced Compact Travel Camera

Leica q2 camera.

More experienced shutterbugs will appreciate this intuitive device, equipped with an updated sensor design and image processor. The dynamic gadget boasts a magnesium alloy body that can withstand harsh conditions, an ultrabroad ISO sensitivity range (50–50,000), high-speed full-HD video recording, wireless sharing, and a touchscreen display that lets you focus on a subject with just a tap.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $5,198

Best Travel Camera for Night Photography

Pentax k-70 camera.

Sensor-shift image stabilization, a complex autofocus system, and fantastic interval shooting modes make this camera more than ideal for shooting in the dark. (Pentax’s Star Stream mode—which makes a movie out of stills by stacking them over time—is superb for capturing twinklers in the sky.) And the easy-to-grip camera boasts a weatherized body, making it impervious to water and highly resistant to the cold.

Type: DSLR. Dimensions: 2.9 x 4.9 x 3.7 inches. Weight: 32 ounces. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 24.24 megapixels. Lens: 55-135 millimeter f/3.5-22 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 921k dots.

Buy Now on Amazon: $897

Best Drone Travel Camera

Dji mini 3 pro drone camera.

This mini drone is excellent for capturing breathtaking aerial scenes. The lightweight flyer fares well in the wind, and has a collision-avoidance feature that guarantees a smooth landing. The smart model also comes with an easy-to-use remote controller with an oversize screen, so you can always see what you’re shooting.

Type: Drone. Dimensions: 14.3 x 2.8 x 9.9 inches (unfolded). Weight: 8.8 ounces. Sensor: 1/1.3-inch, 48 megapixels. Lens: 24 millimeter f/1.7 lens. Display: 5.5-inch LCD display, 2,037k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $909

Best Action Travel Camera

Gopro hero12 black camera.

For high-quality POV shots, there’s nothing better than a GoPro—and the brand’s latest Hero12 doesn’t disappoint. Waterproof up to 33 feet and equipped with a cold-resistant battery, the tiny-but-mighty machine touts a slew of cool features including Hindsight, which starts recording up to 30 seconds before you hit the shutter button—and Scheduled Capture, which will automatically switch on and snap a shot up to 24 hours in advance. The Max Lens Mod 2.0 add-on, which boasts an ultra-wide, 177-degree field of view that shoots in 4K60—is well worth the extra splurge.

Buy Now on GoPro: $400

Kristin Tablang is a writer and editor based in New York City, whose work has appeared in Forbes, Haute Living, and House Beautiful. An avid foodie and photographer, she'd travel the world with…

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Table of Contents
Best Camera
Best Upper Mid-Range
Best Mid-Range
Best Budget
Best Point-And-Shoot

Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best cameras for youtube - spring 2024 reviews.

If you're just getting into making YouTube videos, your smartphone camera is probably the best, most cost-effective place to start. Using what you already own also leaves more room in your budget to invest in a good microphone and lighting setup, which is key to creating videos that will stand out in the sea of content on YouTube. That said, there are some things a smartphone can't do. Going with an interchangeable-lens camera gives you more control over the look of your videos. For instance, you can use different lenses to suit different styles of video, like creating a shallower depth of field for talking head videos or using a fisheye lens for sports and action videos. Consumer cameras are becoming increasingly powerful video tools, offering more advanced recording formats, higher bit rates, and greater bit depth with Log profiles to give you more flexibility when editing. If you want to step up your YouTube game, you'll have no shortage of camera options at different price points.

We've bought and tested over 100 cameras, and below, you'll find the best cameras we've tested for YouTube content creators. If you're looking for something even more advanced, you can check out our picks for the best filmmaking cameras or the best 4k cameras more generally. If shooting sports is more your thing, you can also look at the best video cameras for sports .

Best YouTube Camera

The Sony ZV-E1 is Sony's first full-frame vlogging camera and the best camera for YouTube if money is no obstacle. Like other models in the ZV lineup, it has a fully articulated screen that's great for self-recording and a built-in vlogging mic. It doesn't have a viewfinder, but it's one of the most compact full-frame cameras on the market, though full-frame lenses can still add some bulk, so it isn't the most compact option for on-the-go vlogging.

Still, if you tend to shoot in less controlled lighting conditions, this is a fantastic choice, thanks to a full-frame sensor optimized for low-light situations. Features like auto framing or modes like 'Intelligent Auto' and 'Cinematic Vlog' do the heavy lifting to get the right look for your videos. However, the camera also supports internal 10-bit 4:2:2 Log recording, with 4k at up to 120 fps, making it a good fit for advanced shooters who want more flexibility over the production process, from shooting to uploading the final product. All said and done, these features combine to make this one of the best cameras for content creators, period.

See our review

Best Upper Mid-Range YouTube Camera

If the Sony ZV-E1 sounds like overkill, you'll be all set with the Sony α6700, which is one of the best 4k cameras for YouTube at its price point. Though it lacks the exceptional low-light capability of the Sony ZV-E1, it's a fantastic and well-rounded APS-C camera. With internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording, you can capture very high-quality video with more leeway to edit and color-grade your footage. It's also one of the few cameras of its class that can record at up to 120 fps in 4k, albeit with a significant crop.

Beyond that, it features in-body image stabilization (IBIS) for smoother handheld recording, no recording time limits, and the same exceptional AI-driven autofocus found on the ZV-E1. While the α6700 is the best camera for YouTube videos at this price point, don't overlook the Fujifilm X-S20 . Unlike the α6700, it can record 6.2k video from the full resolution of its sensor and supports RAW video output to a compatible external recorder. That said, its autofocus isn't as reliable, and this model can't shoot 4k video at 120 fps.

Best Mid-Range YouTube Camera

The Fujifilm X-S10 is the predecessor to the Fujifilm X-S20 mentioned above, and while the X-S20 offers some significant improvements, the X-S10 is notably cheaper and still has plenty to offer for those on a tighter budget. Unlike the Sony α6700 , it doesn't support internal 10-bit recording, has a shorter battery life, and maxes out at 30 fps in 4k. However, it uses the same sensor as the X-S20, so video quality is still excellent, and it's one of the few cameras at this price point to feature IBIS.

That aside, it's also well-built, with accessible controls, a comfortable grip, and a fully articulated screen to easily monitor yourself while recording. For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, Fuji's film simulation profiles allow you to change up the look of your videos in-camera. Add in an autofocus system that can keep up well in video and a high frame rate mode in 1080p for slow-motion recording, and you've got a super versatile camera for a range of video styles.

Best Budget YouTube Camera

The Sony ZV-E10 is one of the best cameras for YouTube beginners on a budget. It's similar to the Sony ZV-E1 above but with less advanced internal recording specs and an APS-C sensor. Like its higher-end stablemate, it lacks a viewfinder, so it isn't as versatile for photography as the Fujifilm X-S10 , but it's an excellent vlogging camera for the price. It even has neat extra features, including a specialized 'Product Showcase' mode that automatically switches focus to any object held up in the frame, making it a great choice for product and beauty vloggers.

If you're looking for better stabilization, the similarly priced and more compact Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV comes with five-axis IBIS, making it a great alternative if stabilization and portability are priorities. However, it has a much less reliable autofocus system and uses a smaller Four Thirds sensor. Ultimately, the ZV-E10 is still the best camera for YouTube beginners on a budget, thanks to its larger sensor, class-leading autofocus, and microphone input.

Best Cheap YouTube Camera

The DJI Pocket 2 is unique on this list. This tiny camera has a built-in three-axis stabilized gimbal that ensures your footage looks smooth. While the video quality and low-light capability can't compete with some of the larger-sensor options above, the Pocket 2 can be a powerful all-in-one tool in any content creator's belt, especially if you're on a tight budget. The gimbal makes it incredibly easy to record super smooth handheld footage, and it has a slow-motion capture mode that lets you shoot at up to 240 fps in 1080p.

The camera also has an 'Active Track' feature that automatically follows a person or object, which you can use to get creative when shooting products or action footage. Though it's since been replaced by the DJI Pocket 3, the Pocket 2 is a great deal for content creators who want to shoot stabilized handheld video without spending a fortune on gimbals or extra accessories.

Best Point-And-Shoot YouTube Camera

A point-and-shoot camera like the Sony ZV-1 offers portability and convenience if you want something small and simple. It's similar to the other ZV series cameras recommended above. It has a fully articulated screen, special focus modes, and a vlogging microphone, complete with a detachable windscreen to reduce ambient noise. However, its compact fixed-lens design makes it much more portable, so it's a good fit for on-the-go vlogging. While you don't get as much flexibility with a fixed lens, it's an easier jump from your smartphone since you don't have to worry about switching out different lenses.

If you prefer a wider-angle lens, the new Sony ZV-1 II has a wider field of view that, on its face, is a little better suited to vlogging. Just be aware that it's pricier and lacks optical stabilization, with an e-stabilization feature that crops in your field of view anyway. The biggest drawback of a compact camera is a shorter battery life and a tendency to overheat during long recording sessions, but if that isn't a dealbreaker, the ZV-1 is one of the best compact cameras for YouTubers.

Canon EOS R50: The Canon EOS R50 is a great budget vlogging camera. It's even more affordable than the Sony ZV-E10, but it lacks some of the ZV-E10's dedicated vlogging features, like a vlogging mic and specialized focus modes. See our review
Insta360 GO 2: The Insta360 GO 2 is a tiny action camera that's even more portable than the DJI Pocket 2. It's versatile if you want to capture footage from unique locations and tight spots, but the video quality leaves you wanting more, and it's more niche than other options. See our review
Nikon Z 30: The Nikon Z 30 is a solid budget vlogging camera. Unlike the Sony ZV-E10, it records 4k 30 fps video without a crop, but it struggles with overheating and doesn't have as many lens options as the Sony. See our review
OM SYSTEM OM-5: The OM SYSTEM OM-5 is a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera. It's an excellent choice for outdoor and on-the-go vlogging thanks to its small size, relatively sturdy build, and five-axis image stabilization. However, its internal recording capability and autofocus aren't as good as that of the Fujifilm X-S10. See our review

Mar 26, 2024: We've adjusted the product photos used in the article to be more relevant.

Feb 28, 2024: We've removed the GoPro HERO10 Black as a result of pausing our action camera testing; it's been replaced by the DJI Pocket 2 as the 'Best Cheap YouTube Camera.'

Feb 06, 2024: Added mention of the DJI Pocket 3 to ensure the article is up to date with current market conditions.

Jan 08, 2024: Replaced the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III with the OM SYSTEM OM-5 as a Notable Mention.

Nov 29, 2023: Removed the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III from the Notable Mentions due to limited availability.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best video cameras for YouTube for most people to buy, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).

If you would like to choose for yourself, here's the list of all our reviews for cameras. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.

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Tech Essentials

The 13 Best Compact Cameras of 2024

These are the top point-and-shoot options for epic travel photography.

What’s the best way to relive your favorite travel experiences over and over again? By taking epic photos that you can upload to social media or transform into a coffee table photo book, of course. Investing in a proper camera with a high-quality sensor and a decent number of megapixels will yield better, more printable results than your phone camera. But that doesn’t mean you need to lug a full-size DSLR and several interchangeable lenses around with you. You can get amazing results with a compact, or point-and-shoot, camera.

B&H Senior Technologist Mark Steinberg defines a compact camera as one that is “pocketable, with a minimum number of protrusions, that can be used one-handed.” They’re a great option for anyone who prioritizes easy portability or casual photographers who want good results without a steep learning curve. There are several different kinds of compact cameras, from the budget-friendly to the professional quality, and from digital to film and instant. We’ve researched them all to find the best options across several different categories.

Best Overall

Sony cyber-shot dsc-rx100 vii digital camera.

B&H Photo

It has a high-quality sensor, near-instant autofocus, and a lens that fulfills both wide-angle and telephoto functions.

It’s an expensive option for occasional use only.

Chosen by Mark Steinberg as the best overall compact camera, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII is the seventh generation of a series that has been raising the bar for compacts since its inception. It’s simple to use for novice photographers, with enough manual settings to allow for experimentation and growth. The 1-inch Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor is a major highlight, allowing for high sensitivity with a maximum resolution of 20.1 megapixels. With 8x optical zoom and 24–200mm equivalence, the ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens gives you the freedom to switch between wide angle and telephoto photography for everything from landscapes to wildlife.

Whatever your subject, the 0.02-second hybrid autofocus ensures sharp images in both still and video mode. You can shoot single, continuous, burst, and self-timer images and set an upper or lower limit for your ISO up to a maximum of 12800 for impressive low-light results. If film is your passion, you’ll love the camera’s 20 frames-per-second, 4K video for its smooth movement and cinema-quality resolution. When it comes to viewing your footage, framing (and taking) your shot, or scrolling through the menu, use the 180-degree-flip LCD touchscreen. In high-glare conditions, you can also revert to the pop-up electronic viewfinder.

The RX100 VII offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for instant uploads to social media.

Best Image Quality

Ricoh gr iiix digital camera.

This camera uses advanced lens and sensor technology to deliver undistorted, true-color images with a high level of sharpness across the entire frame.

If video is a priority, bear in mind that the GR IIIx shoots Full HD rather than 4K.

Suitable for all experience levels, the Ricoh GR IIIx Digital Camera was designed with the express purpose of providing superior image quality. The 26.1mm GR lens offers a 40mm angle of view in the 35mm format that’s meant to mirror your natural field of view. It also uses premium technology to eliminate distortion, render colors accurately, and create amazingly sharp images. This is complemented by the camera’s high-resolution CMOS image sensor, which captures HD detail suitable for large-scale prints with up to 24.2 megapixels.

Other highlights include the camera’s impressive shake reduction technology and its fast, precise hybrid autofocus with eight focus modes to choose from including one that automatically detects the eyes and faces for perfect portraits. We love that you can shoot in macro, while an interval composite shooting mode allows you to capture star trail images (you’ll need to buy a tripod separately.) These are the unique images that set your travel shots apart. The camera offers Full HD video, a LCD touch screen with instantly adjustable brightness, and 2GB of built-in memory — a lifesaver when your memory card malfunctions at the crucial moment.

Best Full-frame Compact

Sony cyber-shot rx1r ii digital camera.

This camera packs the full-frame sensor of a professional DSLR into an unbelievably compact, travel-sized body.

You could buy a good DSLR body and lens for a similar price.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II is meant for professional photographers with a price tag and learning curve to match. The 35mm full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor is the largest available, offering more light, more information, better quality, and a greater dynamic range than the APS-C frame found in standard compact cameras. With 42.5 megapixels and the ability to shoot in uncompressed 14-bit RAW, this camera will produce pro-quality, large-scale prints with an astonishing amount of detail.

The ZEISS Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 lens is fixed with no optical zoom, making it best for wide-angle and close-up subjects (and especially, street photography). The large aperture allows you to work in low light and use an unusually shallow depth of field. And, if you’re familiar with terms like moiré and aliasing, you’ll appreciate the inclusion of the world’s first optical variable low-pass filter for reducing these kinds of distortion. Other perks include super-fast hybrid autofocus, Full HD video with the ability to capture slow-motion HD video, an electronic viewfinder, and an adjustable 3-inch LCD screen.

Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D Digital Camera

You can bring subjects 15 times closer without sacrificing image quality, thanks to its optical zoom.

It’s slightly heavier and bulkier than some of the other compact cameras on this list.

If you want to be able to photograph animals, birds, or any other subject from a distance without forking out thousands of dollars for a DSLR with a telephoto lens, the Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D is an excellent option. The Leica DC Vario-Elmar 24–360mm lens offers a 15x optical zoom — which brings subjects 15 times closer without any of the pixelation associated with digital zoom. Optical Image Stabilizer technology means your photos won’t suffer from blurry camera shake either.

The 1-inch MOS sensor with 20.1 megapixels results in bright, colorful images that lend themselves well to print. You can expand your photographic skills by playing around with traditional aperture and shutter priority modes, or use preset scene and filter modes for instantly different effects. We especially love the camera’s Post Focus feature, which varies the focal point while taking 30 photos per second so that you can go back afterwards and select the best one. In terms of video, shoot in 4K or use high-speed Full HD for instant 120 frames-per-second, slow-motion playback.

Best Splurge

Leica q3 digital camera.

This is a professional camera that pays equal attention to still images and video, delivering best-in-class results for both.

It’s not the best choice for those who want telephoto functionality.

The Leica Q3 is an ultra-exclusive option limited to one purchase per customer. And don’t be fooled by its compact size — coming in at just under $6,000, it’s a premium product for serious professionals. It boasts a full-frame BSI CMOS sensor for unparalleled photo and video quality. With a maximum aperture size of f/1.7 and a maximum ISO of 100000, it performs unbelievably well in low light conditions. The Summilux 28mm fixed lens includes an integrated macro mode, making the camera ideal for close-up work as well as wide-angle street photography.

There’s no optical zoom. However, Triple Resolution Technology with up to 60 megapixels means you can use the digital zoom without losing significant detail. You can also shoot in 36 or 18 megapixel mode to save space on your memory card. Video is equally versatile with multiple formats to choose from including 8K, 4K, ProRes, and Full HD. All of your work benefits from hybrid autofocus and subject tracking, while the Leica FOTOS app can be used for audiovisual content creation. Finally, you can frame shots using the 3-inch display or the OLED viewfinder.

Best for Videos and Vlogging

Canon powershot g7 x mark iii camera.

Designed to shoot high-quality video in vertical or horizontal formats, this camera offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and can live-stream direct to YouTube.

To realize full vlogging potential, you may need to purchase a tripod and remote control separately.

Looking for the best camera for filming quality reels? The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is designed especially for this purpose with 4K and Full HD video, the ability to shoot horizontally or vertically, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to social media, and the ability to live stream straight to YouTube. Whether you’re shooting video or still photos, the fact that you can tilt the LCD touch screen by 180 degrees makes it ideal for framing quality selfies.

The technology is impressive, too. We’re talking a 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 8 image processor for exceptionally fast autofocusing, with facial recognition that puts you in the center no matter how much you move around. The 24–100mm lens is suitable for a versatile mix of wide-angle and short telephoto shots, while the f/1.8-2.8 aperture performs well in low light conditions. Finally, the Optical Image Stabilizer reduces camera shake for clear, crisp results. Adding other gadgets is easy. The camera has a 3.5mm microphone terminal and can be purchased as part of a video creator kit that includes a tripod grip and remote control.

Fujifilm X100VI Camera

This camera combines state-of-the-art technology with a vintage aesthetic and a full range of film simulation modes.

The lens is fixed, so any zoom comes with the compromise of digital cropping.

First off, the Fujifilm X100VI just looks cool, with a gorgeous silver-and-black or all-black aesthetic reminiscent of a vintage film camera. Beneath the retro exterior lies a cutting-edge X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor with a revolutionary image-processing algorithm for efficient light reception and amazing image resolution at any ISO sensitivity. Thanks to the fixed 23mm f/2 lens, you’ll also get 35mm equivalency in terms of low-light performance and the ability to achieve a shallow depth of field — for a much lower cost than a full-frame compact camera.

You can zoom digitally by 1.4x or 2x. The 425-point intelligent autofocus system is super fast, while built-in image stabilization reduces the appearance of camera shake by up to six f-stops. And when it comes to video, you can switch between 6.2K, 4K, and Full HD at will. Above all, we love that this camera includes 20 simulation modes inspired by iconic Fujifilm film types ranging from Eterna Bleach Bypass to Nostalgic Neg. You can even shoot using a Grain Effect that replicates the textured look of vintage film photography.

Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera

It’s an inexpensive and easy-to-use film camera for maximum fun.

There’s a limit to how much you can do with such a basic setup, so it may not be ideal as your primary travel camera.

Perhaps you feel nostalgic for the days of film, or perhaps you grew up in the digital era and want to experience photography as it used to be. Either way, the Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera is great for film novices, those wanting to stretch their abilities as a photographer, and those who just love the retro look of original film. It’s inexpensive in terms of initial layout and because the half-frame format gives you twice as many images per roll as you’d get from a full-frame camera.

Weighing in at just three and a half ounces, this pocket-sized camera is made for on-the-go convenience. It features a 22mm f/9.5 lens — so with no zoom and no autofocus, it’s best for wide-angle shots and back-to-basics experimentation that’s as fun as it is challenging. You can frame shots using the optical viewfinder and deploy the built-in flash in low light or at night. The camera is compatible with black-and-white and color film and requires one AAA battery to work. Choose yours in Black, Brown, Sand, or Sage.

The Details: 22mm lens | 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches | 3.5 ounces | Optical viewfinder

Best Instant

Fujifilm instax mini evo instant camera.

Not only can you print photos instantly, you can also save a digital version to your smartphone via the app.

You’ll need to recharge after approximately 100 photos.

Available with a retro black or brown leather effect, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Instant Camera lets you create 2 x 3-inch prints of your images in approximately 16 seconds. It features an autofocusing 28mm f/2 lens and uses automatic shutter speed and ISO for fool-proof results. Expressing your creativity is easy, with 10 lens effects (including Light Leak, Double Exposure, and Soft Focus) and 10 film effects from Vivid to Sepia. You can use these interchangeably for a total of 100 different possibilities.

Other features include a built-in flash, a self-timer, a selfie mirror, and a 3-inch LCD screen. What makes this instant camera different from the Polaroids of the past is the ability to use it in conjunction with the INSTAX app. This means being able to use your smartphone as a remote for releasing the camera shutter (handy for group shots and selfies) and being able to save a digital version of your instant prints complete with an INSTAX frame. From there, you can upload them to social media. You can even use Bluetooth to send pictures from your smartphone to the camera to print.

Best Durable

Ricoh pentax wg-90 digital camera.

Drop it, crush it, take it out in a sandstorm or underwater and this camera should still emerge in one piece.

If you’re looking for an underwater camera for scuba diving, scroll on — we’ve found ones with better depth ratings.

When it comes to durability, B&H’s Mark Steinberg recommends the Ricoh Pentax WG-90 above all others. It lives up to its armored appearance with some pretty impressive technical specs. It’s waterproof up to 46 feet underwater for up to two hours of continuous operation, making it ideal for surface water sports or snorkeling. It’s also shockproof against falls from five feet, crushproof against 220-pound-force weights, and dustproof. Heading somewhere cold? Unlike many of the cameras on this list, this one will still operate in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

Toughness aside, it’s also a great little camera from a photography perspective. The 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor offers high sensitivity and minimal noise, even when using the maximum ISO setting (6400.) A built-in ring light and flash help out in low-light situations, while the 28–140mm equivalent lens is suited to both wide-angle and short telephoto use with a 5x optical zoom. Choose from a range of shooting modes including Fish-Eye, Sports, and Handheld Night; or capture moving images with Full HD video.

Best for Action Sports

Gopro hero12 black.

This camera stands out for its Emmy Award-winning video stabilization, 177-degree field of view, and action-ready, rugged build.

With a super wide-angle lens and no zoom functionality, this is a specialist camera for POV filming and photography only.

GoPro’s reputation precedes it in the action sports category, and the latest Hero12 camera really is a thing of wonder. Film High Dynamic Range (HDR) video in 5.3K, 4K, 2.7K, or Full HD. Revel in the 177-degree field of view that shows more of your daredevil POV than ever before. And know that whether you’re jumping out of an airplane or racing at high speed down a mountain, the camera’s HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization ensures the footage is super smooth. Turning a full 360 degrees? Horizon Lock keeps the horizon level throughout.

You can film vertically for direct upload to social media and slow things down by up to eight times for an epic fast-action/slow-motion effect. Meanwhile, Bluetooth audio support allows you to connect headphones for sound recording and remote voice commands. The camera also takes 27-megapixel still photos. Or, you can grab 24.7 megapixel stills from your video. The GoPro 12 is waterproof to 33 feet, can run continuously for over two and a half hours on Full HD, and features a new Enduro battery especially for temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Waterproof

Sealife micro 3.0 digital underwater camera.

This camera dives as deep as you can and takes the stress out of O-ring maintenance with a permanently sealed body.

It’s very definitely geared towards underwater photography rather than as an all-rounder for topside travel shots.

Unlike the other waterproof cameras on this list, the SeaLife Micro 3.0 is designed with scuba divers in mind. It’s waterproof to 200 feet (exceeding recreational dive limits) and is permanently sealed making it suitable for even the most careless or inexperienced underwater photographer. Use the 100-degree wide-angle lens to get as close as possible to your subject for the best results. You can rely on the built-in underwater color correction to counteract the loss of red tones; or, for the more advanced, there’s a manual white balance option.

We love the large, f/2.8 aperture for its ability to make the most of limited ambient light. But if you tend to dive deep, the camera is also compatible with single or double after-market strobe sets. The camera delivers high-quality, 16-megapixel images in single or burst shooting mode and can also film 4K or Full HD video. And if you get all the way out to the dive site and realize you’ve left your memory card at home? No problem, the 64GB internal memory’s got your back. Finally, Piano Key controls make for easy menu navigation, even with dive gloves on.

Best Budget

Kodak pixpro az255 camera.

This is the ideal camera for beginners who want to learn, with automatic and manual settings at a very reasonable price point.

It requires two AA batteries.

If you’re just getting into photography and don’t want to make a major investment just yet, the Kodak Pixpro AZ255 offers plenty of functionality for roughly nine times less money than our overall winner. It uses a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and is well suited to most kinds of photography with a wide-angle 24mm lens and a 25x optical zoom that brings you significantly closer to your subject without compromising image quality. You can also use the 4x digital zoom, although you should expect some pixelation.

Optical Image Stabilization helps eliminate blur, a continuous shooting mode ensures you never miss that action shot, and a built-in flash allows for nighttime shooting. And although the autofocus isn’t nearly as advanced as the more expensive models on this list, you’ll still benefit from subject tracking and face detection. Our favorite feature? The ability to keep things simple with 22 preset scene modes or to experiment with aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual settings. You’re not limited to still photos — this camera also shoots Full HD video.

Tips for Buying a Compact Camera

Understand the specs.

Before purchasing a compact camera, it’s important to understand some of the key specifications to look out for.

Sensor size: Sensor size has the greatest impact on photo quality and clarity, especially in low-light conditions. The larger the sensor, the better your image quality will be with greater sensitivity and less noise (or graininess). B&H Senior Technologist Mark Steinberg says that BSI, or Back Side Illumination, sensors are superior for their ability to increase light-gathering efficiency.

Megapixels: A megapixel equals one million pixels. Pixels are the tiny digital squares that make up your image and the more you have, the more detail you’ll capture. Most digital cameras offer sufficient megapixels for viewing on a screen. But the number of megapixels becomes important when zooming in on an image, cropping it, or printing it. Look for a higher number of megapixels if you plan on printing your photos, but bear in mind that more megapixels means larger files and less space on your memory card.

Zoom: If you plan on photographing wildlife or anything else that requires a zoom, it’s important to understand the difference between optical and digital zoom. Optical zoom brings the subject closer before capturing the image, with a lens that extends outwards from the camera body. This preserves photo quality. Digital zoom simply crops and resizes a smaller section of the original image, resulting in a blurrier, grainier picture.

LCD screen: The LCD screen is important because it allows you to view and compose your image before taking a picture. It also allows you to play your images back and scroll through the settings menu. Therefore, it’s important to choose a high-resolution LCD screen that displays colors accurately, even in bright light. It also needs to be big enough for you to see details clearly. Some point-and-shoots offer touchscreen capability for increased ease of use.

Viewfinder: Many compact cameras lack a traditional viewfinder (the hole you look through to view and frame your image). But if you plan on shooting in bright conditions, investing in a camera with a viewfinder is helpful for when glare impacts your ability to see the LCD screen clearly.

Video resolution: Video resolution refers to the number of horizontal and vertical pixels. The more you have, the more detailed your footage will be. Look for Full HD (1920 x 1090 pixels) as a minimum or 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) for premium, cinema-quality video.

Prioritize quality

It goes without saying that for the best results, you should spend as much as you can afford on the best quality camera possible. All of the specifications detailed above are worth considering, but if you focus on just one thing, Steinberg says that the most important factor in terms of image quality is the type and size of the sensor. If you plan on printing your vacation photos or using them to create a photo book or other memento, a reasonable number of megapixels (10 or more) is key. Finally, Steinberg points out that build quality and manufacturer support are also important.

Choose a camera based on your skill level and goals

Having said that, there’s no point in spending a fortune on a high-end compact camera with advanced specifications if all you really want is a simple way of capturing fun vacation snaps for social media. Beginners should prioritize cameras that are intuitive and simple to use. If your goals are more ambitious, Steinberg recommends looking for manual settings that will allow you to fine tune shutter speed, aperture size, and ISO for the best results.

It’s also worth considering where you’re traveling and your planned activities. If your camera will be exposed to dust, sand, humidity, or water, then looking for one that’s IP rated against dust and water ingress is crucial. When it comes to interpreting IP numbers, remember that the first number after the IP relates to dust while the second number relates to water. Only water ratings of seven or higher are fully waterproof. Scuba divers should be sure to check depth ratings.

In addition to considering all of the specifications listed above and how they relate to your requirements, Steinberg says it’s important to consider the ergonomics of the camera. Does it feel comfortable in your hands and next to your face? Are the controls and buttons easy for you to access and operate? Can you view the LCD screen clearly and does the menu navigation system make sense? You should also think about the ease of use. If you’re not sure, consider booking a free in-person or virtual appointment with a B&H expert to talk through different options.

Absolutely, and especially if you choose one with a decent number of megapixels. It’s generally accepted that in order for an image to be made into a high quality print, it needs to have 300 pixels per inch (300 PPI). The number of megapixels required to achieve this depends on how big you want your prints to be. For a standard 6 x 4 inch image, you’d need at least 2.2 megapixels. For a 5 x 7 inch image, you’d need at least 3.2 megapixels. It’s also worth remembering that good printing results are dependent on printer and paper quality too.

Before we tackle this question, it’s important to note that while compact cameras lack a mirror (and mirrorless cameras are more compact than DSLRs), mirrorless cameras are not the same as compact cameras for the purpose of this list. We’ve focused on point-and-shoot cameras for novice photographers and more advanced photographers who prioritize portability. Advantages of point-and-shoots over DSLRs include reduced size and weight, ease of use, and cost.

Mirrorless cameras were introduced in 2004 and have since evolved to compete with DSLRs as the category of choice for intermediate and professional photographers. They have a larger sensor than a traditional point-and-shoot, offering superior image quality. They’re bulkier, cost a lot more, and come with interchangeable lenses. The key difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras is that mirrorless cameras let light hit the sensor directly whereas DSLRs use a mirror to reflect light onto the sensor.

This difference makes mirrorless cameras quicker and quieter — key advantages for fast-action and wildlife photography. High-end mirrorless cameras can also offer superior autofocus and better performance in low light conditions. DSLRs still hold the edge in terms of viewfinder accuracy, battery life, and a greater range of compatible lenses.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear for more than a decade. She’s also a professional photographer who has sold images to many publications including Travel + Leisure. Although she typically shoots with her trusty Nikon DSLR, she has often used compact cameras especially for underwater photography. For this article, she conducted hours of online research and consulted the opinion of Mark Steinberg , a B&H Senior Technologist.

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The best travel cameras for 2024

Andy Westlake rounds up our pick of the best travel cameras for trips long and short, vacations and all other adventures

Welcome to our guide to the best travel cameras and holiday cameras! Here, we are going to be running through our picks for the best small and light cameras to take away with you. A full camera setup tends to be too bulky and heavy to use on a photo trip or vacation, while a smartphone will generally be too restrictive in terms of what it can capture (and never mind the battery). A dedicated travel camera is the ideal solution.

At AP, our review team tests cameras of all types, and that includes travel cameras. DSLRs, mirrorless models and compact cameras have all passed across our testing bench, and we’ve chosen the best of the best for this guide. This doesn’t just mean the most expensive premium models – after all, travel is expensive enough without having to add a whacking great camera bill on top.

Of course, you do have to spend a bit of money to make sure you get something worth buying. So, we’ve put together a list to suit a range of budgets, including new models and older ones that have come down in price. However, every camera on here has one thing in common – it impressed our reviewing team enough to earn their recommendation.

We’ve got plenty of advice for taking better travel images here .

How to choose the best travel camera or holiday camera

So what features might be most desirable for a travel camera? Small size and light weight are a given, and we’ve assumed that most users will prefer using a zoom lens , quite probably with an extended range. This could be complemented by a couple of small primes , for shooting in low light or going out in the evening. It might also make sense to add an ultra-wideangle zoom for architecture, landscapes or interiors.

As such, where we’ve picked an interchangeable-lens camera , we’ve also provided a lens recommendation, generally one that you can buy bundled with the camera. The fixed-lens compact cameras we’ve picked generally have generous zoom ranges , with the exception of the Fujifilm X100V, which is loved by travelling street photographers for its super-sharp 35mm prime. This is one we’d recommend for city breaks rather than countryside hikes.

In general, the cameras we’ve chosen in this guide also include fully manual control , a built-in viewfinder and raw format image recording . In order to attain a certain level of image quality, they also use sensors of the 1-inch type or larger . The one exception is the Olympus Tough TG-6, which we have chosen as the best bet for a waterproof camera . Going to be spending most of your time snorkelling on the beach? That one is your best bet.

Read on for our choice of the best travel cameras and holiday cameras that are available right now, including both high-end pocket cameras and lightweight mirrorless models teamed up with versatile zoom lenses.

Where to find the best travel and vacation cameras:

Best waterproof travel camera: Olympus Tough TG-6 – check best price
Best fixed-lens compact for travel: Fujifilm X100V – check best price
Best zoom compact for travel: Panasonic LX100 II – check best price
Best point and shoot for travel: Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 – check best price
Sony RX100 VII – check best price
Best all-in-one travel camera: Sony RX10 IV – check for best price
Best DSLR for travel: Nikon D5600 – check best price
Best travel camera for enthusiasts: Fujifilm X-S10 – check best price
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III – check best price
Nikon Z 5 – check best price

The best travel cameras and vacation cameras: our full list

Olympus tough tg-6 – $489 / £399.

Olympus Tough TG-6 (Red) Lego for scale. Photo Joshua Waller

At a glance

25-100mm f/2-4.9 lens
12MP 1/2.3in sensor
ISO 100-12,800
20fps continuous shooting
3in, 1.04m-dot screen

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is different from the other cameras included in this round-up, as it employs a relatively small sensor, which means it won’t give anywhere near the same image quality. It also does without a viewfinder, relying solely on a fixed rear screen instead. But it makes our list simply because it’s the best rugged camera you can buy right now.

Key to its attraction is its sheer robustness. The TG-6 is waterproof to 15m, shockproof to a drop from 2.4m, freezeproof to -10°C, and crushproof . So you can use it without any worries on the beach or in the sea. It also boasts impressive close-up capability and an extensive range of underwater modes, plus an extensive range of lighting and lens accessories.

For outdoor adventurers, it also includes a suite of environmental sensors that allow you to keep track of your travels, including GPS with a compass, a thermometer and an accelerometer.

Read our full review of the Olympus Tough TG-6 .

What we like:

Supremely rugged build
Has optical zoom (many tough compacts don’t)
Useful environmental features

What we don’t like:

Small sensor
No viewfinder

Jellyfish, taken with the Olympus Tough TG-6 one of the best travel cameras

Jellyfish, taken with the Olympus Tough TG-6, photo Joshua Waller

Take a look at other waterproof and underwater camera options here: Top 12 Best Waterproof and Underwater Cameras

Fujifilm X100V – $1,399 / £1,339

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Fujifilm X100V

The Fujifilm X100V is a premium compact camera beloved of street photographers.

At a glance:

35mm equivalent f/2 lens
26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
ISO 80-51,200 (extended)
11fps continuous shooting
Hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder
3.2in, 1.62m-dot tilting touchscreen

Among all the cameras covered in this article, the Fujifilm X100V is unique, as it’s the only one with a fixed, single-focal-length lens . Usually for travel we presume photographers will prefer a zoom, ideally with an extended range to cover a broad array of subjects. But the X100V is different.

With its APS-C sensor, fixed 35mm equivalent lens, and classic rangefinder-like styling, it embraces a different way of shooting. It’s all about working with a fixed angle of view, and ‘zooming with your feet’ to find your pictures. It’s not for everyone, but for some photographers, it’ll be perfect.

While the X100V looks very much like the previous four models in the X100 series, it brings some significant improvements. Its redesigned lens is sharper, especially at close focus distances, and it gains a tilting rear screen that’s great for discreet, unobtrusive shooting.

Thankfully these upgrades don’t come at the detriment of the camera’s other major attractions, which include analogue dials for shutter speed, ISO, aperture and exposure compensation, and Fujifilm’s unique hybrid viewfinder that gives a choice of optical or electronic viewing.

Despite its old-fashioned good looks, the X100V is packed full of up-to-date features . It’s capable of 11fps shooting, 4K video recording, and face- and eye-detection autofocus. It also benefits from Fujifilm’s superb colour rendition, with a full array of Film Simulation modes on board to provide a variety of different looks.

And for those who really can’t do without a few different lenses, optional wideangle and teleconverters are available, giving 28mm and 50mm equivalent views.

Read our full review of the Fujifilm X100V.

Sublime image quality
Super-sharp lens
Has nailed the street photography feel
Expensive for a compact

Image: Michael Topham

Panasonic LX100 II – $849 / £859

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Panasonic LX100 II

The Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 lens
17MP Four Thirds sensor
ISO 100-25,600 (extended)
11fps shooting
2.76m-dot EVF
3in, 1.24m-dot touchscreen

If you love the idea of an X100-like camera, but can’t live without a zoom, then the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II might just be for you. It boasts a similar array of external controls for shutter speed, aperture and exposure compensation, and incorporates a corner-mounted 2.76m-dot electronic viewfinder. But it also includes a 24-75mm equivalent optically stabilised zoom lens with an unusually fast f/1.7-2.8 aperture. This is particularly impressive given that the camera employs a relatively large Four Thirds type sensor.

One unique feature of the LX100 II lies with the way that it uses its sensor. It employs a multi-aspect ratio design that, at the flick of a switch on the lens barrel, can toggle between 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 settings , all with the same diagonal angle of view, and therefore progressively wider horizontal views. There’s also a 1:1 option for those who enjoy shooting square-format images.

While the LX100 II is very much designed for stills shooters, it also offers 4K video recording , although with a 1.25x crop. Panasonic’s various 4K Photo modes are on board too, in effect shooting 8MP JPEGs at 30fps. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are built-in for connecting to your smartphone.

The real attraction of the LX100 II, though, lies in just how pleasing it is to shoot with, thanks to its robust metal build and engaging control layout. It also delivers fine image quality. For enthusiast photographers who’d like a zoom compact camera that offers lots of manual control and creative potential, there’s nothing else quite like it.

Read our full review of the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II .

Clever multi-aspect sensor
Robust metal body
Fast f/1.7 lens for low light
Somewhat restricted zoom range
Quite bulky for a camera of this type

Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 – $697 / £679

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Panasonic Lumix TZ200 in hand

The Panasonic Lumix TZ200 is portable and agile, but boasts a hefty zoom range.

24-360mm equivalent f/3.3-6.4 lens
20.1MP 1in sensor
ISO 80-25,600 (extended)
10fps continuous shooting
2.33m-dot viewfinder

Panasonic originally invented the long-lens, pocket-sized ‘travel zoom’ camera, and the TZ200 (or ZS200 in the US) is the ultimate expression of this concept. Like its predecessor the TZ100, it adds a 20MP 1-inch sensor into the mix, to provide considerably improved image quality compared to its cheaper siblings with smaller sensors, such as the TZ95.

But it improves on the TZ100 with a longer 24-360mm equivalent zoom (compared to 25-250mm) and a larger, higher-resolution electronic viewfinder, yet without noticeably increasing in size. For those who can’t afford the TZ200, the TZ100 remains an attractive proposition for £389.

In contrast to its sibling the LX100 II, the TZ200 is very much a point-and-shoot at heart. But it still offers lots of manual control, including a full set of exposure modes and raw format recording. It’s capable of shooting at 10 frames per second, or 7fps with live view between frames. A vast array of features is available for those who’d like to experiment further, including panoramic, multi-exposure, intervalometer and even stop-motion animation modes.

As usual, Panasonic has included 4K video recording, along with its unique 4K Photo mode that allows 8MP JPEGs to be captured at 30fps.

Crucially, the TZ200 gives attractive images, particularly in bright, sunny conditions. It’s also more usable than you might expect in low light, as while the lens’s aperture isn’t especially large, the optical image stabilisation is extremely effective. It’s a great choice for when you just want to carry a pocket point-and-shoot camera but not skimp on zoom range.

Huge zoom in a tiny body
Clever 4K Photo modes
Effective optical stabilisation
Pricier than TZ100
Lens aperture tops out at f/3.3

Sony RX100 VII – $1,298 / £1,049

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Sony RX100 VII

The RX100 VII benefits from a pop-up viewfinder.

24-200mm equivalent f/2.8-4.5 lens
20MP 1in sensor
2.36m-dot pop-up EVF
3in, 921k-dot tilting touchscreen

Sony’s RX100-series compact cameras are famed for the way they fit an awful lot of technology into a small, pocketable package. The latest model in the range exemplifies this, with a 24-200mm equivalent f/2.8-4.5 zoom, a 20MP 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor, a pop-up electronic viewfinder and a tilting rear screen, all in a body that’ll slip neatly into a jacket pocket.

What’s more, it’ll shoot at 20 frames per second and record 4K video. Compared to its predecessor, it gains an upgraded sensor that enables Sony’s AI-based tracking autofocus, along with a socket for an external microphone and a few interface improvements. Otherwise, the older RX100 VI offers most of the same features for a slightly more affordable £849.

With 357 phase-detection AF points covering 68% of the frame and Sony’s Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking on board, the RX100 VII has the most sophisticated autofocus of any compact camera . Set it to continuous focus and tracking, and you can almost forget about having to move the AF area or change focus modes ever again. This is very welcome, as in many respects the camera’s ambitious feature set has rather outgrown its simple control layout.

One area where the RX100 VII excels lies with composing your images, thanks its large pop-up viewfinder and tilting rear screen. The lens is a strong performer too, especially when stopped down. Crucially, the camera delivers attractive images which are a noticeable improvement over older Sony models in terms of colour rendition.

Class-leading autofocus
Pocketable form factor
Great viewfinder and screen
Still very pricey
RX100 VI will do most of the same stuff for less money

Sony RX10 IV – $1,698 / £1,499

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV - Image: Andy Westlake / AP

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV. Photo credit: Andy Westlake.

24-600mm equivalent f/2.4-4 lens
24fps continuous shooting
2.35m-dot viewfinder
3in, 1.44m-dot tilting touchcreen

For photographers who’d like an all-in-one camera with a long zoom lens , but who are prepared to carry something the size of a DSLR, there’s nothing else quite like the Sony RX10 IV .

Its 24-600mm equivalent optically stabilised lens offers immense versatility and reach, yet still boasts a usefully fast f/2.4-4 aperture . Meanwhile its 20MP 1in stacked CMOS sensor provides a combination of fine image quality and breathtaking speed. The camera also incorporates Sony’s sophisticated autofocus systems, including eye AF for both humans and animals.

The RX10 IV handles well too, with a large, comfortable handgrip. Three rings arranged around the lens barrel control zoom, focus and aperture, and there’s a dedicated exposure compensation dial perfectly placed for operation by your thumb. Focus area selection is handled using either the touchscreen or the rear d-pad. The viewfinder is decently large and gives an accurate preview, while the screen tilts for low-angle shooting.

To fully understand the RX10 IV’s attraction, though, we need to consider how it compares to mirrorless or DSLR alternatives. Quite simply, none can match its zoom range without changing lenses . What’s more, few other cameras get close to its ability to shoot at 24 frames per second with continuous autofocus and a vast 110-frame raw buffer.

The silent electronic shutter provides speeds as fast as 1/32,000sec while minimising any risk of subject distortion. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi provide smartphone connectivity, and as the icing on the cake, it’ll record 4K video. It’s without doubt the best bridge camera that’s ever been made.

Read our original review of the Sony RX10 IV

Incredible built-in zoom range
Fast burst and big buffer
Comfortable, well-engineered handling
Very expensive for a fixed lens

Nikon D5600 + 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens – $969 / £749

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Nikon D5600 and 18-140mm lens

The 18-140mm lens transforms the D5600 into a travel photography powerhouse.

24.2MP APS-C sensor
ISO 100-25,600
5fps continuous shooting
Optical pentamirror viewfinder
3.2in, 1.4m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

Some photographers still prefer a traditional DSLR with an optical viewfinder, and Nikon’s D5600 provides a solid specification in a portable package. What’s more, it can be bought in a kit with a versatile 18-140mm kit zoom, offering a 27-210mm equivalent range, for just £749. As the icing on the cake, Nikon’s SnapBridge connectivity can transfer all your pictures automatically to your smartphone , making sharing your adventures a breeze.

In terms of key features, the Nikon D5600 boasts a reasonably solid specification. Its 24.2MP sensor goes up to ISO 25,600 and supports continuous shooting at 5fps. Autofocus employs a 39-point phase-detection system covering the central region of the frame, while metering is handled by a 2,016-pixel RGB sensor.

One area where the D5600 shows its age, though, is with regards to video recording, which is Full HD only, rather than 4K. Recent mirrorless models undoubtedly offer more, but on the other hand, they can’t match the D5600’s impressive 820-shot battery life.

In general the D5600 delivers attractive images, with warm, saturated colours and plenty of detail. It handles nicely too, with the responsive touchscreen making up for a relatively simple set of external controls. Those who’d like to add extra lenses are well served by Nikon’s sizeable F-mount range , including the affordable AF-P DX-Nikkor 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR wideangle zoom and the AF-S DX-Nikkor 35mm f/1.8 G. The latter would nicely complement the zoom for low-light shooting. See our guide to the best Nikon F-mount lenses for more ideas.

Read our original review of the Nikon D5600

Solid DSLR handling
Good connectivity features
Well-priced
Price may go up as it gets harder to find
Middling video spec

Fujifilm X-S10 + 16-80mm f/4 lens – $1698 / £1,399

Fujifilm X-S10 in hand, Photo: Andy Westlake

26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor
2.36m-dot viewfinder
3in, 1.04m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

For enthusiast photographers who’d like a small, lightweight camera that handles well and offers excellent image quality , the Fujifilm X-S10 is extremely appealing. Styled to look and work very much like a shrunken DSLR, it offers most of the features of the firm’s flagship X-T4 in a considerably smaller body.

It comes in kits with various lenses, with prices starting from just below £1,000 for the XC 15-45mm power zoom. We’ve picked the most versatile kit zoom option, the XF 16-80mm F4, which provides a 24-120mm equivalent range.

Based around Fujifilm’s unique 26MP X-Trans CMOS sensor, the X-S10 delivers the firm’s signature attractive JPEG colour rendition. It even has a dedicated dial to select between the various Film Simulation modes, which provide an interesting range of different looks. Other highlights include 5-axis in-body stabilisation that works with every lens, and a fully articulated screen for shooting at unusual angles. When it comes to video, 4K recording is available at up to 30 frames per second.

With its prominent handgrip, twin control dials and joystick for positioning the focus area, the X-S10 provides the kind of handling that should satisfy experienced photographers. Fujifilm also makes the best available range of lenses for the APS-C format, including a nice set of compact primes.

What’s more, the major third-party lens makers have also recently started to support the firm’s X mount, with some interesting optics now available from Samyang, Sigma, and Tamron . This makes the X-S10 a great choice for existing DSLR users looking for a smaller camera.

A newer model, the Fujifilm X-S20 has recently been released and our review team found that when choosing between both models it depends if you’re planning on doing video content, particularly travel vlogging , ‘If you already have the X-S10 and are primarily a stills photographer, then the X-S20 may be overkill for you, but for the budding or experienced videographer, vlogger, and live streamer, the X-S20 hits it out of the park, with a cracking set of video features that really takes it to the next level.’

Read our original review of the Fujifilm X-S10 and how it compares to the newer Fujifilm X-S20 .

Eye-catching images straight out of camera
Excellent X-mount lenses
Effective stabilisation
Still quite pricey

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III + 14-150mm lens – $1,498 / £1,299

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is one of the best Micro Four Thirds cameras you can buy.

20.4MP Four Thirds sensor
ISO 64-25,600 (extended)
3in,1.04m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

Olympus cameras have traditionally offered high performance in a compact form factor, and the E-M5 series delivers on this principle particularly well. Like its predecessors, the Mark III is unique in being extremely small and lightweight, while still having a fully weather-sealed body and a good set of external controls. What’s more, you don’t have to spend a huge amount of money to get a matching sealed lens.

Buy it in a kit with the 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II, and you get an extremely useful 28-300mm equivalent lens that’s also dust- and splashproof. If you’re prepared to spend a bit extra, there’s even a 12-200mm superzoom that offers a massive 24-400mm equivalent range. Despite its small size, the E-M5 III doesn’t skimp on features.

Its 20MP sensor includes on-chip phase detection that provides 121 focus points spread across the entire image area. You get 10 frames per second shooting, a decently large viewfinder, and a fully articulated screen. As usual from Olympus, the camera also produces very attractive JPEG images , with well-judged exposure and white balance that complement the firm’s signature punchy colour reproduction.

Micro Four Thirds models inevitably give more visible image noise at high ISOs, but this can often be offset by the superb 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, as it allows you to shoot handheld at remarkably slow shutter speeds. There’s also a good range of affordable f/1.8 prime lenses available for low-light shooting that’ll take up next to no space in your bag. There is also a good choice of lenses .

Read our original review of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Exceptional stabilisation
Loads of lenses available
Weatherproof body
Unavoidably small sensor

Nikon Z 5 + 24-200mm f/4-6.3 lens – $2,193 / £2,029

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Nikon Z5 with 24-200mm lens

The Nikon Z 5 is the only full-frame camera on our list.

24.3MP full-frame sensor
ISO 160-51,200
4.5fps continuous shooting
3.69m-dot viewfinder
3.2in, 1.04m-dot tilting touchscreen

If you really can’t do without full frame, the latest mirrorless models are ideal for travel , as they’re smaller and lighter than their DSLR counterparts. It’s also possible to get all-in-one superzoom lenses for them that deliver very creditable results. We’ve chosen the Nikon Z 5 , as it’s available in a kit with the firm’s Z Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR for a decent discount over buying the two separately.

The lens has a slightly shorter zoom range than its Canon and Sony counterparts, but provides a welcome weight reduction in return, of about 200g. While the Z 5 counts as Nikon’s ‘entry-level’ full-frame mirrorless body, it doesn’t give up a huge amount compared to the more expensive Nikon Z 6 .

Its 24MP sensor resolves just as much detail in good light, and while it falls behind in terms of noise performance at the highest sensitivities, it’s still perfectly usable at ISO 12,800. However, its maximum shooting speed of 4.5fps looks rather pedestrian by today’s standards, meaning it’s not the best choice for fast action or wildlife. It’s also only able to record 4K video with a significant 1.7x crop.

In other respects, though, the Z 5 maintains most of what makes Nikon’s mirrorless cameras so attractive. The body may be small, but it has plenty of external controls, along with a lovely large viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen . Dual SD card slots offer the option of backing up your images for peace of mind, while in-body IS means you can often do without a tripod. A range of fine fast primes is also available for low-light shooting.

Read our original review of the Nikon Z 5 here

Satisfying controls and handling
Does well in low light
Gorgeous full-frame images
Pedestrian burst rate
Vicious crop into 4K video

Take a look at our latest buying guides for more great options.

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Four of the best cameras for YouTube sliced together against a white background.

The best cameras for YouTube in 2023

Up your YouTube game with these impressive cameras.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

There isn’t one to rule them all when it comes to cameras for YouTube. Instead, finding the best camera for YouTube videos comes down to what kind of content you’re creating. If you’re streaming Among Us from your desk, you may not need as many frills as someone filming themselves leaping off waterfalls. Depending on your circumstances, the right camera may be one that is ultra-portable and allows you to frame yourself as you walk and talk. Or perhaps the most important consideration is getting the best video quality possible. We’ll guide you through the best cameras for YouTube, no matter what type of content you want to create.

Best overall: Sony FX30
Best upgrade: Sony FX3
Best for 6K: Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2
Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1
Best for streaming: Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam
Best for travel: Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera
Best action camera: GoPro HERO12 Black
Best budget: Canon EOS R50

The best cameras for YouTube: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re just starting up your YouTube channel or looking to upgrade your content to continue growing your audience, these cameras will help bring out the best in your work.

The Sony FX30 against a white background with a gray gradient.

Resolution: 26 megapixels
Sensor size: APS-C
Lens mount: Sony E
Image stabilization: Sensor-shift, 5-axis
Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type A / SD
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.1 x 3.3 inches
Capable of quality stills as well
Advanced and accurate autofocus
Compact and lightweight
4K video up to 120p
No viewfinder
4K 120p comes with a 1.6x crop

Dedicated cinema cameras are typically quite expensive, but Sony’s entry to its cinema line offers plenty of features borrowed from Sony’s high-end cinema cameras at a very reasonable price. The FX30 can record 10-bit 4K video, which is oversampled from a 6K crop in a Super 35 format . It’s capable of up to 120 frames per second, though that comes with a 1.6x crop.

The FX30 offers 14 stops of dynamic range and a Dual Base ISO system for more flexibility in bright and low-light situations. It also provides lots of control when it’s time to sit down and edit as well, thanks to the S-Cinetone, S-Log3, and HLG profiles. Should you not want to spend time editing, you can apply LUTs in-camera.

As with most Sony cameras, the FX30 features an advanced Fast Hybrid autofocus system. That includes real-time Eye AF and tracking for both humans and animals. Focus breathing compensation allows you to smooth out focus breathing in-camera with select lenses in 4K up to 60p or 120p after recording. Finally, the 5-axis in-body image stabilization helps smooth content when shooting handheld. All in all, the FX30 offers a lot for the price, making it the best for most YouTube creators.

The Sony FX3 against a white background with a gray gradient.

Resolution: 12.1 megapixels
Sensor size: Full-frame
Weight: 1.6 pounds
Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.3 x 3.1 inches
Superb low-light performance
Built-in fan
High-quality 4K video
Resolution tops out at 4K

If you like the form factor of the FX30 but want a step up in terms of sensor size, the FX3 is your best bet. Sony built the FX3 around a full-frame 12.1-megapixel sensor. The larger sensor size with low resolution results in larger pixels for gathering more light. That means better low-light performance than the FX30. You’ll be able to get clean footage even with ISOs as high as 12800, which is very impressive. It also offers 15 stops of dynamic range for more flexibility in tricky lighting situations.

The FX3 also shines over the FX30 in slow-motion performance. It’s capable of 4K 120p video with no crop and with internal 10-bit 4:2:2 sampling or 16-bit raw output. You’ll have access to S-Cinetone, as well as S-Log-3, S-Gamut3, S-Gamut3.Cine, and HLG HDR. These match well with higher-end Sony cinema cameras in case you’re using the FX3 as a second camera for your YouTube shoots.

The FX3 comes with Sony’s impressive autofocus system with superb eye and subject tracking and plenty of helpful settings. The compact body with the important controls on the top of the device makes it easier to hold and adjust settings while shooting. And it’s compatible with cages, XLR adapter handles, and other accessories for even better ergonomics during long shoots.

A hand holding the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2 in a cage with a mic.

Jeanette D. Moses

Resolution: 21.2 megapixels
Sensor size: Super35
Lens mount: CanonEF
Image stabilization: None
Memory card slots: Slot 1: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II), Slot 2: CFast
Weight: 2.65 pounds
Dimensions: 7.08 x 4.84 x 4.41 inches
Affordable for what you get
Easy-to-use menus
Superb 6K video quality
Compatible with optional EVF
No built-in ND filters
No built-in stabilization

Sometimes, 4K footage just doesn’t cut it. If you need high-quality 6K content, the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2 (BMPCC 6K G2) is one of the best options available. That’s in part due to its relatively approachable price, which makes it easier for those just getting started. It utilizes the Canon EF mount, which also makes buying lenses more approachable, as you won’t need to buy high-end cinema lenses.

Despite the reasonable price, the BMPCC 6K G2 is a truly advanced cinema camera. Blackmagic built the camera with the same 6K S35 sensor as the 6K Pro, which results in 16 stops of dynamic range and dual native ISO up to 25,600. It’s capable of 6144 x 3456 6K footage up to 50 fps or 6144 x 2560 (6K 2:4:1) up to 60 fps.

This camera for YouTube features a five-inch articulating touchscreen and an option electronic viewfinder for working on bright days. Though most YouTube filmmakers will want a cage , the camera is very compact and feels very nice in the hand on its own. Of course, the low price means there are some compromises. It doesn’t offer built-in ND filters, so you’ll want to pick those up for your lenses. It also doesn’t provide any stabilization, so if you are shooting handheld, you’ll want a gimbal for smooth videos .

To learn more, check out our full review of the Blackmagic Design Pocker Cinema Camera 6K G2 .

The Sony ZV-E1 mirrorless vlogging camera against a white background with a gray gradient.

Resolution: 12.9 megapixels
Image stabilization: Yes
Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
Weight: 1.1 pounds
Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.8 x 2.1 inches
Very compact for a full-frame camera
Impressive stabilization
Useful AI-based features
Dust and moisture resistant
Single SD card slot

The Sony ZV-E1 is a seriously impressive camera for YouTube content . It’s capable of 4K video at up to 120p or full HD up to 240p. The body features a better heat-dissipating structure, so you should be able to get up to 60 minutes of recording time even at 4K60p. Beyond heat limitations, there are no recording time limits, making long clips possible.

Sony packed this camera with an extensive list of content creator-friendly features. That includes an AI processing unit that enables impressive AI recognition and autofocus tracking. It can automatically crop the frame to focus on a specific subject. Multiple Face Recognition allows you to track multiple subjects in the frame. The Product Showcase Setting can switch AF tracking between you and your product to make product spotlights easier. Plus, a bokeh switch allows you to adjust the level of bokeh that you want.

The ZV-E1 offers impressive five-axis optical image stabilization or smooth footage even without a gimbal. The Optical Active Mode offers better stabilization when walking, and the Dynamic Active Mode adds electronic stabilization for even more stable footage with fast movements or longer focal lengths. Despite all these features, the camera body is one of the most compact full-frame cameras available, making it easier to hold when recording and more travel-friendly. If you need impressive specs in a small package for vlogging, this is one of the best available full-frame cameras for YouTube.

Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam is one of the best cameras for YouTube

Resolution: 2 megapixels, 1080p video resolution
Sensor size: Size unspecified
Lens mount: N/A
Image stabilization: None
Memory card slots: None
Weight: 5.7 ounces
Dimensions: 3.7 x 1.7 x 2.8 inches with clip
60 fps possible at 720p
78-degree field of view
Two built-in omnidirectional mics
Auto light correction
No privacy shutter

The folks at Logitech created the C922x streaming camera with YouTubers in mind. It streams in full HD at 30 fps. Or, should you need something faster, you can drop the resolution down to 720p for 60 fps. Your streamed content won’t suffer from any sort of lag or distortion. And the glass lens on this webcam will result in sharper content compared to plastic lenses.

The C922x offers light correction so that shadows and natural lighting shifts don’t mar your content. Its autofocus function means you can get animated without losing followers. And the two built-in omnidirectional microphones can sub in for a full mic if you haven’t picked up a professional option yet. You will sound natural and clear throughout your stream, even if you move around a lot.

Plus, the C922x Pro includes a free six-month subscription to XSplit, which can simplify your live-streaming process. This is one of our favorite webcams in general, but it makes for an especially fantastic choice for those sharing their content on YouTube.

Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera is one of the best YouTube cameras

Resolution: 20.1 megapixels
Sensor size: 1-inch
Image stabilization: Yes
Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
Weight: 10.65 ounces
Dimensions: 4 x 2.29 x 1.69 inches
Compact and portable
Versatile 24-200mm equivalent built-in zoom lens
Fast autofocus
Expensive for a compact camera

Don’t let the Sony RX100 VII’s size deceive you—it’s an extremely powerful vlogging camera for YouTube built for capturing vivid images and 4K video on the go. Its Zeiss Vario Sonnar large-aperture, high-magnification zoom lens delivers stunning image quality up close and at a distance. It covers a 35mm equivalent range of 24-200mm, making it ideal for everything from group selfies to wildlife photos and videos. The tiny size and built-in lens make it a perfect travel companion , especially if you like to travel light.

The AI-aided, real-time tracking keeps your subjects in focus, while Active SteadyShot mode provides image stability as you walk and talk. The 4K 30/24 fps video is crisp, while full HD offers 120 fps for epic slow-motion footage. A Photo Capture function is built right into the camera, so you can grab 8.29-megapixel stills from your 4K footage to use as thumbnails in your videos or social media promos. A built-in microphone with audio output means you won’t need to bring an extra mic and travel lighter, but should you want it, there is a 3.5mm external microphone port to add a mic as well.

The GoPro Hero12 Black laying in the grass.

Abby Ferguson

Resolution: 27 megapixels
Sensor size: 1/1.9-inch
Lens mount: N/A
Image stabilization: Yes, HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization
Memory card slots: Single slot: microSD/microSDHC (UHS-III)
Weight: 5.4 ounces
Dimensions: 2.8 x 2 x 1.3 inches
Highly compact and portable
Extremely rugged and waterproof design
Award-winning stabilization
5.3K video at 60 fps
Battery won’t last all day

The GoPro HERO12 is the go-to action-oriented camera for YouTube, thanks to its durable body and impressive image-stabilization software. Even videos of serious action, such as mountain biking or trail running, will be smooth and stable thanks to the HyperSmooth 6.0 digital stabilization. As has been the case for the last handful of GoPro cameras , the body is extremely rugged and adventure-ready, even without a case. It’s waterproof to 33 feet on its own, and the water-repelling lens will make photos and videos in wet conditions sharper.

The HERO12 allows up to 5.3K60p video for professional-looking footage. Built with content creators in mind, its larger sensor provides more flexibility when it comes to aspect ratios. It can record at a nearly square 8:7, which provides the largest vertical field of view of any GoPro yet. That’s ideal for vertical videos you want to share to YouTube Shorts or on TikTok or Instagram. Or you can create immersive 16:9 POV video thanks to the HyperView digital lens.

The Hero12 truly has an extensive list of features to love, especially for active and adventurous YouTube creators, making it a top choice when it comes to cameras for YouTube. We’ve highlighted the Creator Edition here, which comes with all the accessories you may need for your YouTube videos, including the Media Mod with built-in microphone, the Volta Battery Grip, and Light Mod. If you know you’ll be using the GoPro exclusively for action and don’t need the accessories, you can save some money and opt for the camera-only version .

Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
Sensor size: APS-C
Lens mount: Canon RF
Weight: 13.2 ounces
Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7 inches
Budget-friendly
Light and compact
Advanced autofocus
Beginner-focused features
No stabilization

You don’t have to settle for a less-than-impressive camera if you need a budget camera for YouTube. Canon’s EOS R50 packs plenty of advanced features into this beginner-friendly body that is quite affordable, especially for what you get. It’s also extremely lightweight and compact. Hand-holding the camera is easier for longer periods, and you’ll be more likely to actually bring it with you. The lightweight design also helps with recording smooth videos since there is no built-in stabilization.

The R50 is capable of 6K oversampled 4K 30p video or full HD at up to 120p for slow-motion playback. Those are some seriously impressive video specs for such an affordable camera. It also provides access to advanced autofocus features such as whole-area tracking, subject detection, and Movie for Close-up Demo Mode. You can continuously record for up to one hour, making it an excellent vlogging camera for single takes.

To learn more, check out our full review of the EOS R50 .

Things to consider when shopping for the best cameras for YouTube

YouTube is a vast world with nearly endless types of content. The social media platform hosts informal vertical shorts, pro-level documentaries, inspiring movies, vlogs, and everything in between. Because of that, finding the best cameras for YouTube can be painstaking since each type of content calls for different features and specs. For example, someone creating casual vlogs of their daily life will have much different camera needs than someone working on high-end productions.

The sheer number of cameras available makes it even more challenging. But we aim to help filter through the noise. Below, you’ll find some key features to look out for to help guide you through which camera is best for you and your YouTube content.

One of the most important features of all cameras for YouTube is autofocus abilities. Your YouTube videos won’t look very polished if the focus is frequently off. While most modern cameras offer impressive autofocus features with AI-based tools, they aren’t all created equal. You also may need specific features depending on what you film.

For example, if you show off products frequently, you may want a camera with a product showcase mode to make focus changes easier when filming on your own. If your YouTube videos focus on people who move around in the frame, you’ll want excellent face and eye tracking with settings geared towards that.

Sensor size

Sensor size isn’t everything, but it does have an impact on your videos. Full-frame cameras offer a slew of upgrades to image quality, including bigger pixels and the ability to capture more light. More light results in more vibrant colors as well as better performance in low-light situations. However, if you know you won’t be filming in many dark situations and need a budget-friendly camera for YouTube, a smaller sensor will still provide plenty of quality and performance.

Stabilization

One big factor that can make people click away from your YouTube content is shaky footage. Videos with lots of movement are hard to watch, so it’s important to smooth out your content in some way. Luckily, many mirrorless cameras and cinema cameras offer in-body image stabilization (IBIS) to help produce smoother videos even when shooting handheld on the go.

That said, not all cameras offer the same level of stabilization. If you know you’ll be recording while moving around a lot, focus on cameras with more successful stabilization features. You may also want to invest in a gimbal, as IBIS can only do so much.

Beyond stabilization, poor audio quality is another surefire way to push people away from your YouTube content. If viewers can’t hear you or your subject talking, they won’t stick around. Some cameras for YouTube offer fairly good-quality audio, but you’ll want to invest in an external microphone for the best quality.

The type of mic that you’ll need varies depending on what type of content you are filming, but no matter what, you’ll want to be sure that your camera offers a mic input. A hot shoe is also valuable for mounting the mic unless you opt for a cage that allows for accessories. And if you are really serious about your audio, a headphone jack for monitoring levels will be crucial.

Size & build quality

For those who record on the go or during travels, camera size may be a key factor in selecting a camera. Likewise, if you shoot handheld a lot, a compact body is important. It’s no fun to lug around a big, bulky camera. It can even limit how long you’ll be able to film. If you know you won’t be using your camera on a tripod very often, look for compact, lightweight bodies.

Another important thing to consider is build quality. Some cameras for YouTube are built to be rugged devices with weather sealing and durable materials. However, even those aren’t intended to be submerged in water or dropped down cliffs. For adventure-focused YouTube content, an action camera may be the way to go.

Live-streaming capabilities

If you’re a streaming YouTuber positioned in front of your state-of-the-art gaming PC or doing nuanced tutorials, you will have some specific camera requirements that differ somewhat from other types of content. For many, a webcam is the easiest option for streaming purposes, as you won’t have to fuss with camera settings or finding a place for a bulky camera. If that’s the case, look for a webcam that produces a top-notch image, offers a good frame rate, stays in focus, and isn’t drastically impacted by changes in room light. This will ensure that you capture all your video in detail without inconsistencies in lighting or focus as the subject moves in-frame.

If you want to step beyond a webcam for your streams or want something that can be used for more than just your live streams, a mirrorless camera may be the way to go. Some camera manufacturers, such as Canon , make it easy to use their cameras as webcams, which can simplify the process. Some even offer built-in support for YouTube live streams. Be sure to check what the connectivity options are, and also think about what type of tripod or mount you’ll need for the camera as well.

Q: Which camera is best for YouTube beginners?

Which cameras are the best cameras for YouTube beginners really depends on the kind of content you are creating. If you plan to stream in front of your computer or gaming console, a webcam like the above-mentioned Logitech should serve you well. It provides a steady video output along with autofocus and light correction. If you’re planning to spend most of your time on the go, you’ll want to consider a dedicated camera like the Canon EOS R50 . Or, if you are focused on action videos, a GoPro camera offers excellent quality in an easy-to-use package.

Q: How much is a good camera for YouTube?

If by good you mean “top of the line,” you’ll need to spend upwards of $3,000. But if you’re looking at something functional with a decent number of high-quality features, you can find options between $500 and $1,000.

Q: What makes a camera good for YouTube?

A good YouTube camera needs to provide a level of image quality that won’t lose you followers, at the least. After that, you’ll want to consider what kind of content you’ll be creating. If you’re on the move, image stabilization is essential, as is battery life. If you’ll be streaming from your desk, you’ll want to make sure your camera has autofocus and can adjust for changes in lighting.

Final thoughts on the best cameras for YouTube

We loathe to say it, but content is king. When shopping for the best cameras for YouTube, you’ll need to consider what type of content you’ll be creating. Providing commentary on a DOTA stream has far different demands than capturing extreme sporting events or documenting trips to the backcountry. It will mean the difference between buying a stationary streaming webcam and purchasing a mirrorless, full-frame wonder of modern photography.

No matter what you’re creating, you’ll want a decent image, but just how good really depends on what kind of standards you can afford to support and what kind of standards you’re growing audience demands of you.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

Abby Ferguson is the Associate Editor for Gear and Reviews at PopPhoto, joining the team in 2022. She has been involved with the photography industry in various capacities since her undergraduate training at the University of Kentucky, with work ranging from client photography to program development and management of the photo department at Evolve, a vacation rental company.

Want more photography techniques, camera reviews, and inspiration?

The best YouTube cameras in 2024: our favorite content creation tools!

We pick the best YouTube cameras for indoor presenting, travel vlogging, adventurous thrill-seekers, and more

The quick list

Best overall, best for youtube shorts, best for content creatives, best budget action camera, best for filmmakers, best for vloggers, best for travel, best for streaming, best small full-frame, best hybrid, how to choose a camera for youtube, how we test cameras.

Woman in kitchen presenting cookery video on YouTube

The quick list 1. Best overall 2. Best for YouTube Shorts 3. Best for content creatives 4. Best budget action camera 5. Best for filmmakers 6. Best for vloggers 7. Best for travel 8. Best for streaming 9. Best small full-frame 10. Best hybrid How to choose How we test FAQs

Picking the best YouTube camera isn't a simple question of one-size-fits-all. Depending on what kind of videos you want to create, and the kind of channel you're running, there are all sorts of different cameras that could potentially be right for you. So, in this guide, we've prepared a wide-reaching list of cameras for different purposes and budgets.

Our list includes everything from all-in-one compacts to versatile mirrorless and high-end cinema cameras, as well as hardy waterproof action cameras for the more adventurous. If you're not sure which is right for you, scroll to the bottom of the page where we've included some pointers on how to choose the right camera for YouTube.

We've used all these cameras and we think they are the best choices for YouTubers right now, but they reflect very different shooting styles. You can read our full list to get a sense of which option is suitable for which type of user, and place yourself accordingly. We've stuck to dedicated cameras for this list, but if you prefer to shoot on a phone, check our rundown of the best phones for video .

For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. He has been taking photographs since the days of film, but is also keenly interested in video, having used many cinema cameras from the likes of Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He brings this expertise to picking out the best cameras for YouTube.

It took Sony five years to upgrade the video-centric A7S II to a Mark III, but the wait was worth it for keen enthusiasts and professional filmmakers.

The best YouTube cameras in 2024

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

1. Sony A7S III

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

It took Sony five years to upgrade the video-centric A7S II to a Mark III, but the wait was worth it for keen enthusiasts and professional filmmakers. It might not boast the 6K or 8K video resolution of some of its rivals today, and with only 12.1MP it’s not a powerhouse super-stills machine either.

But apart from an extensive and expensive cinema camera, it’s one of only a handful of cameras that can shoot 4K at 60p full frame with no crop, recorded internally, in 10-bit 4:2:2 with no limitations on recording time, and with all the advanced AF functions still working.

Instead of chasing headlines, Sony worked on giving filmmakers the camera they needed, with lots of codec choices without limits on frame rates. And uses its computing power for fast readouts to enable quick frame rates and high bit rates at all settings, with all other functions working.

Such as all the clever AF systems with eye and face detection for humans and animals. Features that still shooters have come to take for granted while video shooters have always had a crippled AF that just didn’t offer all the bells and whistles.

Read our full Sony A7S III review for more details

2. GoPro Hero12 Black

The Hero 12 Black is the latest in GoPro 's supremely popular line of action cameras. For YouTubers, it's an excellent choice for a number of reasons – especially for those who want to create content for YouTube's vertical video service (a.k.a. its TikTok clone) YouTube Shorts. This is because of the 8:7 ratio sensor, introduced in the Hero 11, which allows for lossless cropping in all different aspect ratios.

The Hero 12 Black captures 5.3K at 60fps, 4K at 120fps, or 2.7K at 240fps if you're looking for super slow motion shots. GoPro's HyperSmooth stabilization is better than ever before, the updated hardware and software make it even more powerful and video quality is very good, except for in dimly lit environments.

Low-light performance isn't much better than it's ever been, though the Hero 12 Black does introduce a few new features, including support for Bluetooth microphones and headphones. You can now shoot HDR video and shoot in a flat Log profile for maximum dynamic range and latitude when it comes to colour grading. It's not a big jump over the Hero 11 Black – but for serious content creators, it's worth the investment.

Read our full GoPro Hero 12 Black review for more.

GoPro Subscription explained : what you get, and is it worth it

Best YouTube camera: Panasonic Lumix GH5 II

3. Panasonic Lumix GH5 II

The clue is in the name. A Mark II version of anything is likely to be a refresh rather than a whole new camera, and it’s the same here. But while the GH5 II might appear superficially similar to its predecessor, it incorporates a large number of improvements and additions that make quite a difference when you add them together – and they are even more impressive given the price. While sequel cameras like the Lumix GH6 have since come along, the GH5 II still represents excellent value for money.

This camera dates from the era when Panasonic was sticking with its own DFD contrast-based autofocus even though rival makers have switched to faster and more reliable phase AF. Panasonic's DFD AF has steadily improved, but it still tends to hunt and lose contact with subjects – which is bad news if you are trying to film yourself.

With an articulating display that opens out to the side, it won’t be blocked by a shotgun mic mounted on the hot shoe, so you can vlog obstruction-free, and it also has a full-sized HDMI-out, for easy-to-access clean video – perfect for pairing with an Atomos Ninja V, for example. The Lumix GH5 II would be best suited to a more advanced YouTuber who can make the best use of its advanced video settings and won't be fazed by its quirky AF.

Read our full Panasonic Lumix GH5 II review for more details

Best YouTube camera: GoPro Hero 10 Black review

4. GoPro Hero10 Black

A couple of generations back in the GoPro Hero lineup, the GoPro Hero10 Black still offers a lot for budget-conscious YouTubers. It sports the 1.4-inch front-facing screen first introduced on the GoPro Hero9 Black for easy framing of selfies and videos, and there’s a wide range of third-party accessories.

It’s also got some elegant features, the most useful being HyperSmooth 4.0, an image stabilization system that works so well. The result is super-smooth handheld shots. It’s also hard to resist the option to capture in 5.3K video, and in 60 frames per second. There’s more in store from the GoPro Hero10 Black in the shape of the brand’s Max Lens Mod, which uses the camera’s removable lens cover by bringing an ultra-wide 155º field of view that will be useful for group vlogging, yoga classes, and education.

Read our full GoPro Hero10 Black review for more details

Best YouTube camera: Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K

5. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K

The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K looks great value for money today and it's an intriguing alternative for Olympus or Panasonic users who've already invested in MFT lenses. It has some disadvantages, such as no continuous AF and a fixed screen, but this is a cinema camera, not a vlogging camera. It always comes back to bang for the buck with the Pocket Cinema Camera 4K.

When you consider the fact you have a mini XLR audio input and USB-C storage support for recording to hard drives, a full-sized HDMI port, and dual card slots, the Pocket Cinema Camera 4K leapfrogs the competition in almost every video-centric area. Considering that the camera also ships with a full license for Davinci Resolve , an excellent bit of pro-video-editing software that usually costs $295/£239, the Pocket Cinema 4K is quite a bargain.

Read our full Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K review for more details

6. Sony ZV-1

The Sony ZV-1 is like a movie-orientated version of Sony's long-running RX100-series compacts. It's also cheaper than the flagship Sony RX100 VII, so Sony has once reversed its usual technology/price escalation. The ZV-1 has the same 4K video capability and blindingly fast autofocus, and a new 'Product Showcase' mode is perfect when holding objects up to the camera.

The vari-angle screen is more valuable than the tilting screen on the regular RX100. The microphone has a clip-on windshield (supplied) which is a huge advantage for outdoor shooting, where even a light breeze can cause awful buffeting with regular in-camera mics.

Sony has since released a couple of updates to this camera that may be worth consideration. First, the ultra-cheap Sony ZV-1F , which eschews the zoom lens in favour of a 20mm equivalent prime. That's quite a sacrifice in terms of versatility, but otherwise this no-frills vlogging camera is a decent option.

There's also the ZV-1 II , a more direct sequel to this camera. Its main addition is a zoom lens that can zoom out to 18mm equivalent – but otherwise, it's a disappointingly minor upgrade that does little to justify its price hike. While the original ZV-1 is still available, we're sticking with it as our recommendation.

Read our full Sony ZV-1 review for more details

7. DJI Osmo Pocket 3

DJI's Pocket cameras have long been popular among YouTubers for their ability to capture smooth moving footage while used handheld. They're built around an integrated gimbal that compensates for camera movement – essentially the same unit DJI uses in its drones. However, with DJI's ActiveTrack technology built in, cameras like the Osmo Pocket 3 can also intelligently follow subjects and keep them in frame.

The Osmo Pocket 3 features a raft of updates compared to the previous Pocket 2, and more than justifies the price hike. One of the key additions is a larger 1-inch sensor, which means it performs much better in a range of lighting conditions. It also has a much bigger LCD monitor – a 2-inch screen that smoothly rotates from horizontal to vertical orientation as needed. It's so much easier to see what you're doing than it was on the smaller screen in previous versions of this camera, not to mention making use of the touchscreen functionality.

The camera isn't as small or as resilient as the 'Pocket' designation implies – you'll want to be more careful with it than you would with, say, a GoPro. However, it's unquestionably the best iteration of the form we've seen yet, and can be brilliantly accessorised with wireless mics for improved audio.

Read our full DJI Osmo Pocket 3 review for more details

Best YouTube camera: Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III

8. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

One of the biggest bugbears vloggers and video makers have with Canon is the crop factor when shooting 4K on many of its cameras, but the G7 X Mark III bucks the trend – thank goodness. This high-end compact packs a similar body and an identical lens to the G7 X Mark II, but includes a new sensor and no 4K crop. It was also the first camera of its kind with a microphone input – vital if you want clean audio, not to mention the ability to Livestream straight to YouTube.

This means that even if you’ve got an expensive cinema camera if you also have a G7 X Mark III you can create a fuss-free live setup without any expensive capture cards and a PC. With its flip-out screen, the G7 X III also gives vloggers a clear view of themselves when they shoot, and thanks to its 20.1MP 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor and Digic 8 processor it’s also able to capture great stills, so your custom thumbnails can pop nicely.

Read our full Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III review for more details

9. Sigma fp

The Sigma fp may not be the obvious choice for YouTubing, but thanks to its modular makeup it's an incredibly versatile camera – and it really shines in the video department. Indeed, it also has a very special party trick: it can natively stream over USB. So if you want a camera for streaming but don't want to invest in an HDMI capture card, you're looking at it.

The L-mount offers a good selection of lenses, though some come with hefty price tags – though the fp is very adapter-friendly, and bolting on glass (especially vintage) from other brands feels like exactly what this camera is made for. And with 4K up to 30fps and 1080p up to 120fps, the Sigma fp should cover virtually all your video demands – though if you're a lone vlogger, it does have a couple of handicaps.

Firstly it has a fixed display, meaning you can't flip the screen around to see your framing while you film with the camera. This leads to the second shortcoming: the continuous AF is pretty unpredictable, and this is a camera that's best for experienced videographers rather than run-and-gun novices.

Read our full Sigma fp review for more details

10. Sony ZV-E10

Following the success of the vlogger-oriented compact ZV-1, Sony tried to repeat the trick with a mirrorless camera. Step forward to the Sony ZV-E10, an E-mount APS-C mirrorless model capable of shooting beautifully detailed 4K UHD 30p video, and bursting with vlogger-aimed features like a 3-directional capsule mic, a clip-on wind muffler, and a fully adjustable vari-angle screen.

It's smartly done, and the camera impresses. Minus a bit of rolling shutter here and there, it shoots excellent-looking 4K video, and its sophisticated mic system means you can produce great-sounding vlogs without having to fork out for too much extra gear.

There's no viewfinder, but as a YouTube shooter, you're probably not going to use one anyway, which helps keep the camera's cost down. Sony's video autofocus is class-leading and is present and correct on this capable camera.

Read our full Sony ZV-E10 review for more details

Finding the right camera for YouTube is not just about choosing the best or most expensive camera. The trick is to choose the right kit for what you want to video. If your channel is filled with dynamic, action-packed adventures, an action cam is an obvious candidate. The best action cameras capture really high-quality footage these days, or for a different perspective, what about one of the best 360 cameras ?

If your style of filmmaking is more measured, then a mirrorless camera is the obvious candidate. This will give you access to cutting-edge video technology, higher-quality capture, and the ability to swap lenses.

A third alternative is a compact camera where the lens is part of the camera. You lose out in versatility, but compact cameras tend to be much more affordable and simpler to use, and there's a lot less to carry around than with a mirrorless model.

One more thing. Do you want to do live streaming? In this case, the choice narrows a little – not all cameras can livestream straight out of the box. Our guide includes a few, but see our guide to the best cameras for streaming for a more extensive selection.

We test cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and, for DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. We use both real-world testing and lab results to inform our comments in buying guides.

Do you need a professional camera for YouTube?

The short answer is no! While professional cameras will deliver far superior results when wielded by people who know how to use them, a standard or phone camera is perfectly capable of producing results that are more than acceptable on YouTube. Many of the cameras we've included in this guide are suitable for beginners and intermediate users.

Having the latest 6K or 8K camera is not a big priority – we'd say for now, as long as you can capture footage in at least 4K you'll be all right, and Full HD will also work okay. More important is getting something that can capture clean audio, whether that's with a plug-in microphone, a wireless microphone, or a sophisticated built-in mic setup like the one on Sony's ZV-1 vlogging compact.

Are phone cameras good for YouTube?

It depends on the phone – but potentially yes. Smartphone cameras have got much better in recent years, and flagship phones these days are capable of capturing 4K video pretty much as standard (though frame rates vary from model to model). We have a dedicated guide to the best phones for video if this is the route you prefer to go down.

Best cameras for vlogging Best webcams Best PTZ cameras The best 4K camera for filmmaking The best laptop for video editing The best microphone for vlogging

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For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. Originally specializing in Equestrianism, his visuals have been used by the leading names in the equestrian industry such as The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), The Jockey Club, Horse & Hound, and many more for various advertising campaigns, books, and pre/post-event highlights.

He is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and is a Master of Arts in Publishing. He is a member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since the film days using a Nikon F5 and saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still to this day the youngest member to be elected into BEWA, The British Equestrian Writers' Association.

He is familiar with and shows great interest in street, medium, and large format photography with products by Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. Sebastian has also used many cinema cameras from the likes of Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2 shooting Street photography or general life as he sees it, usually in Black and White.

Electronics
Camera accessories

The Best Vlogging Cameras and Gear

Three cameras we recommend for vlogging, from GoPro and Sony.

By Geoffrey Morrison , Arriana Vasquez and James Austin

Vlogging, or video blogging, is a way for you to share your life and interests with the world, potentially making money while you do it.

From cooking to travel, from makeup to hair care, from pugs to parakeets—whatever you’re into, someone else probably is, too.

The most popular platform for vlogging is YouTube, at more than 2 billion users. With enough viewers, you can monetize your videos, which gives you a share of the advertising profits.

You don’t have to enter the vlogging world with the idea of making money, but that potential is there. You can treat your channel like your feed on any other social media site, sharing your adventures and interests with friends. Eventually, though, with a bit of luck, work, and some compelling content, you can pass the magical 1,000-subscriber threshold and start making money from your hobby.

But first, you need a vlog. And to record a vlog, you need a camera, at the very least. We’ve put together a list of gear and some tips to help you begin, starting with a camera that you probably already have and working your way up through more expensive options as both your vlog and your experience grow.

The research

Why you should trust us, how to approach building a kit for vlogging, how we picked and tested vlogging cameras, smartphone accessories, for use with phones: our picks for better sound quality, best camera for vlogging outdoors and on the go: sony zv-1 ii, best camera for action vlogging: gopro hero12 black, best vlog-camera image quality for the money: sony α6700, best drone for vlogging: dji mini 4 pro, vlogging camera accessories, why not a video camera or camcorder.

Geoffrey Morrison has been a professional writer and photographer for 20 years. He has written extensively about cameras for multiple publications, and for most of the past decade he has been a digital nomad, doing travel writing and photography for outlets such as Wirecutter, The New York Times, CNET, and Forbes. He also has his own YouTube channel , which features lots of vlogging footage.

Arriana Vasquez is a senior updates writer for Wirecutter and has contributed to our guides to tripods , tripods for smartphones , and instant cameras . She is also a photographer at a product studio, where she shoots everything from antique charms to zebra-print leggings.

James Austin is a staff writer who covers games and hobbies and also serves as Wirecutter’s expert on drones . He has been following a variety of daily vloggers since 2010, and he has even made some vlogs of his own, chronicling the build season of his robotics team.

Vlogging can be a lot of fun, and if that’s the only thing you want from it, all you need is an idea and a video. However, if you want to make money, it is unquestionably a job. Many YouTubers get burned out facing the constant hustle of producing new videos that must perform, or else they lose their income. All that is to say, you’ll need to treat it like a job way before you’ll get paid like it’s a job.

What you don’t need is a lot of expensive gear, at least not to start. Your first videos likely won’t be seen by many people. It will take time for you to streamline your process, get used to being on camera, and figure out whether this is something you really want to do. Start with the gear you have, learn the job, and then upgrade your gear later, if you decide to stick with it.

But don’t take our word for it. Consider the advice of Kika and Dan, the duo behind Sailing Uma , a channel about buying an aging sailboat, fixing it up, and learning how along the way. They’ve been supporting themselves with YouTube videos (and Patreon ) as they’ve sailed around the world for the past six years. At this writing, their channel has 420,000 subscribers and over 95 million views.

We asked them what they would say to someone just starting out, and they told us, “The most important step is to just get out there, and do the best you can, with what you have at that point in time. With experience, you’ll learn what works and what doesn’t, and what gear fits into your own style and workflow.”

“To some extent, gear does matter,” Dan said via email. “But like my high school shop teacher used to tell me, ‘a good carpenter never blames his tools.’ Over the years we developed our own style, experimented, and slowly evolved our gear to help make our creative process flow smoother.”

We highly recommend their “ A ‘Master Class’ in Advanced Video Selfies ” video, which shows how they made this beautiful travel/day-in-the-life video .

Karl Smallwood, creator of Fact Fiend , has 753,000 subscribers and 320 million views at this writing. He’s able to support himself and a small staff from the channel’s income with his laid-back but highly informative videos about random facts.

He told us, “We’ve never particularly cared about visuals and instead focused on audio when upgrading and purchasing equipment, as more people than you’d expect listen to videos as background noise and, in our experience, people are more likely to forgive janky visuals than bad audio.”

A good mic is a crucial purchase, and we’ll discuss microphones for use with phones and with cameras below.

In the end, what makes a vlog successful is largely how much effort and time you’re willing to put into it, regardless of what you’re shooting with.

As the adage goes, the best camera is the one you have with you. This is true for vlogging, as well. Any current smartphone—even models a few years old—can record videos that look fine on YouTube.

The benefit of using your phone, or whatever camera you already have, is that you can get used to the process of making vlogs before you spend lots of extra money. It’s also easy and fairly inexpensive to boost the quality of what you can get out of your existing camera by purchasing some basic accessories, which we’ll discuss in a moment.

That said, upgrading your camera can result in better-looking video and help you get shots and clips not possible with a phone. In some cases, our pick for the best action camera is a logical option. As for other kinds of cameras, we’ve identified a few features specifically important for vlogging that we don’t focus on for our general camera guides:

Face recognition: This feature ensures that your face (and the face of anyone you might interview) is in focus at all times.
Flip-up or flip-out touchscreen: This kind of screen allows you to see where you are in the frame while you’re recording yourself.
Built-in Wi-Fi: Connectivity makes transferring still images or video clips to your smartphone or tablet quick and easy, and even more important, it lets you start or stop recording remotely.
Microphone input: This feature allows you to add a directional or wireless microphone, which makes your voice easier to hear when you’re recording in noisy situations.
4K resolution: Compared with 1080p, 4K provides four times as many pixels. Even if you don’t plan on creating 4K videos, having extra resolution gives you options during the editing stage, allowing you to zoom in or crop differently. And in general, your video will have more apparent detail even if the end result is 1080p.
Slow-motion capabilities: If you want to create cinematic shots that increase your video’s apparent production values, slow motion is one way to do it.

We also favor more portable cameras for this purpose. DSLRs can provide great video, but they’re quite heavy and generally lacking in image stabilization, so we primarily focus on mirrorless and fixed-lens cameras for vlogging. (If you’re only ever going to stay in one place and produce cooking videos or makeup tutorials, though, heavier cameras like DSLRs can be suitable.)

If you’re planning to stream videos live instead of uploading individual vlog entries to YouTube, our picks wouldn’t work well for you. Most of them aren’t designed to handle a constant flow of video, and they are hard-coded to limit video clips to 30 minutes or less. If you’re looking for something that will help you make your own Let’s Play channel, for example, a webcam will serve you better.

If you’re wondering about camcorders, we address them in their own section .

A person's hand holding the DJI OM 5, a previous pick for the best gimbal for Androids and iPhones, with a phone attached.

Insta360 Flow

For smooth, stabilized cell phone video.

This gimbal effectively stabilizes video shot with even the shakiest hands, while offering useful features such as a built-in tripod and an integrated selfie stick.

Buying Options

Assuming that you already have a phone you like, we’ve found that a few accessories can improve the quality of any phone’s video. The first is a gimbal .

These motorized handles counteract your arm and hand movement, stabilizing the phone so that you can record smooth video with no distracting bouncing. Think of it as a hand-holdable Steadicam rig, one that you can get for well under $200.

The Insta360 Flow is the best phone gimbal because of its approachability, compact size, long-lasting battery, and helpful built-in accessories. It creates far smoother video than what a phone can do internally, or what you can get from any software stabilization you can add in post-production.

Joby GorillaPod 1K Kit

A small tripod that can grip.

The GorillaPod works as a small tripod and a selfie stick, and it can grip surfaces for a variety of placement options.

For many videos, you might not want to have to hold your phone or camera at all. Placing the phone on a desk, counter, or anywhere you’re recording a video is always, pun intended, handy. Doing so gives you many additional creative options, not to mention the freedom to use both hands. (If you like talking with your hands, it’s especially vital.)

For something small that can work as a handle and can grip fence poles, benches, railings, and lots of other objects for stability, we like the Joby GorillaPod 1K Kit . It’s light and highly adjustable, and it can grip onto things with its ball-jointed legs. It can also work as a short selfie stick.

To connect your phone to the tripod , you also need the Square Jellyfish Metal Spring Tripod Mount , which has a rotating mount that can hold any size phone comfortably and can serve as a stand on its own.

Bad audio will alienate potential viewers faster than anything else. No less a luminary than George Lucas once said , “Sound is half the experience in seeing a film.”

Even if you plan on recording only indoors, a good microphone will make your voice more prominent and more professional sounding, and it has the potential to reduce room noise and echoes.

Which of the many available microphone options will work best for you depends a lot on how you’re going to vlog and where. Just about any brand-name mic will sound better than the one built into your phone. Here are some options that we like for use with phones.

Versatile desktop USB mic

This mic offers clear, full sound and easy connection to any computer.

If you’re sticking to vlogging at your desk, check out our favorite USB microphone , the Blue Yeti . The Yeti has been our pick since 2013 and has come out on top during every retest of available microphones.

In our testing, the Yeti produced clear, rich recordings and preserved the natural vocal warmth of our testers’ voices. This is a microphone that both amateurs and professionals turn to for their voice or music work, and it will last for years.

Note, however, that it’s a full-size, wired, desktop microphone, so if you plan on recording video on the go, this model won’t work well.

Røde VideoMic Me

A convenient mic for your phone.

This mic mounts to your phone to give you better sound with minimal fuss. It includes a wind reducer to improve outdoor recording.

If you want something simple that attaches to your phone, check out Røde’s VideoMic Me. It comes in three flavors: the Me-L for Apple phones , the Me-C for Android phones with USB-C , and a version for any phone with a headphone jack .

It has a cardioid (heart-shaped) pickup pattern to better separate your voice from background noise. On the back is a headphone jack, which allows you to monitor or listen to your recordings without removing the mic. An included furry “ dead cat ” wind reducer helps keep your voice clear outside when it’s breezy.

Each version also comes optionally in a kit that includes a grip, an LED light, and a furry wind reducer. To hear how the VideoMic Me sounds and how the overall kit performs, check out Geoffrey’s review of the Røde Vlogger Kit on YouTube.

Sony ZV-1 II

For vloggers ready to upgrade.

Compact, light, yet able to record stabilized 4K video, this made-for-vlogging camera represents a great step up for beginners.

When you’ve gotten comfortable with vlogging and are ready to step up your video quality, we recommend the Sony ZV-1 II . It’s designed explicitly to serve as a vlogging camera, with the ability to record 4K video at 30 frames per second and 1080p video up to 120 fps. It also records stereo audio with a clever top-mounted directional mic. The flip-out screen lets you easily frame selfie shots, and the built-in optical image stabilization smooths out your movements.

The ZV-1 II is capable of recording better video than a phone for two main reasons. The first is its 1-inch stacked sensor, which is significantly larger than the image sensors found in most mainstream cell phones. The second reason is that the ZV-1 II pairs the sensor with an f/1.8–4 Zeiss lens, which lets a lot of light fall on the sensor despite its compact size. It also offers a smooth 2.8x zoom, giving you an 18mm-equivalent wide angle and a reasonable 50mm-equivalent telephoto.

This lens isn’t as wide as what you can get from a typical cell phone camera, but at arm’s length you should be able to fit your face and shoulders in the frame, especially if you use any sort of selfie stick or handgrip.

A Sony ZV-1 II camera with the screen flipped out.

The ZV-1 II’s flip-out screen is easy to use and makes framing selfie footage simple. On the touchscreen, you can choose your focus point, start or stop recording, and access commonly used settings, including the shutter speed and ISO. Beyond the touchscreen, the menu systems and button layout on the ZV-1 II aren’t as intuitive as they could be; vloggers may find that Sony’s phone app ( iOS , Android ) offers a better way to adjust settings on the fly.

Numerous software features built into the camera make it great for vlogging, as well. For starters, with the touch of a button, you can enable a soft bokeh blur to separate you or your subject from the background. In addition, the fast autofocus can quickly lock in on you, on a separate subject, and then back to you. It can also identify your face and stay focused on you if you move around in the frame.

Although we still recommend a separate mic, the ZV-1 II’s internal mic works quite well and even comes with a furry windscreen “tribble” to keep wind noise at a minimum. A 3.5 mm microphone input and Sony’s MI Shoe mount on top allow you to add an external mic.

The body itself is nicely designed, too, with well-placed grips for you to hold the camera securely multiple ways. Plus, it’s small enough to easily fit in a jacket pocket or purse. On the downside, the screen might be hard to see in bright light, and the camera gives you no way to monitor your audio levels since it lacks a headphone jack.

The ZV-1 II doesn’t have in-body image stabilization (IBIS), but we found that enabling Sony’s software-based Active Steadyshot stabilization on 4K video produced relatively smooth footage. A grip or tripod such as the Joby GorillaPod 1K Kit or Sony’s own Bluetooth controller and tripod can further reduce shakiness. Turning on Active Steadyshot causes the camera to apply a slight crop to recorded clips, but we still fit comfortably within the frame for selfie footage.

Then there’s the matter of price. The ZV-1 II is $900 at this writing. For the features it offers and its overall performance, that is a very good price—in our research, we found many other cameras that offered less for more money. However, $900 is still a lot if you’re unsure whether vlogging is for you.

If you like the sound of the Sony ZV-1 II, but you’d like to save a little money, the original Sony ZV-1 , a former pick, remains a great option, and it’s occasionally available for as little as $650 (though its official retail price is $750). It’s similar to the ZV-1 II in size, shape, and capability, but it has a slightly tighter field of view, with a widest focal length of 23mm (in contrast to the ZV-1 II’s 18mm), and its touchscreen is less useful. On the plus side, the ZV-1 has IBIS, so its photos and videos are just a little less shaky than those of the ZV-1 II.

GoPro Hero12 Black

Best for action vlogs.

Offering high-resolution, highly stabilized video, a forward-facing screen, and a waterproof body, this action camera is perfect for outdoor, active vlogs.

May be out of stock

The GoPro Hero12 Black is our favorite action camera for two main reasons: image quality and stabilization. Both of those factors make it an excellent vlogging camera if your vlog includes any sort of energetic outdoor activity.

Maxing out at 5.3K resolution, the Hero12 Black offers far more detail than other action cameras do. That resolution allows you to crop your footage to zoom in. With its super-smooth stabilization, you likely don’t need a gimbal for steady shots, even when the camera bounces around during recording. It’s also waterproof down to 33 feet (10 meters). And its audio performance is good, thanks to a group of built-in microphones, though in most cases you should consider using an external mic.

The image quality is no match for what you can get with a larger-sensor camera such as the Sony ZV-1 II or especially the Sony α6700. However, the Hero12 Black creates a vibrant, detailed image in bright light and works fairly well in low light.

No action camera can handle true low-light situations. If you’re usually spelunking in dark caves or crawling through poorly lit abandoned buildings, consider a bigger camera with a larger sensor and lens, provided that you can afford to carry the weight.

The GoPro Media Mod, a plastic frame that goes around the camera and includes a microphone and mounts for accessories.

The two features of the Hero12 Black that help make it a great vlogging camera are its forward-facing screen and its multiple field-of-view options. The color forward-facing screen is small but lets you easily set up selfie shots. As for the “lens” options, you can choose from wide, linear, and narrow, which allows you to frame yourself and your adventure in more ways than you can with most action cameras.

In addition, the Hero12 Black lets you more easily record vertical and horizontal content at the same time. So if you create videos for YouTube (16:9 aspect ratio) and TikTok (9:16), for example, recording 8:7-aspect-ratio videos with the Hero12 Black makes it easier to use the same recorded footage for both.

For more advanced users, the Hero12 Black can also record 10-bit log for easier post-production color grading, and you can enable time-code synchronization to more easily sync footage across multiple cameras. This feature is also available in the slightly cheaper GoPro Hero11 Black , but the Hero12 Black has better battery life and is worth the extra money.

GoPro’s app, called Quik ( iOS , Android ), offers a variety of editing options, allowing you to trim and create videos without third-party editing software, though of course you can get better results in a professional-grade video editor.

One important GoPro accessory that’s worth the investment for any vlogger is the Media Mod . It includes a plastic frame that encloses the camera, plus a built-in microphone and two mounts for either a wireless mic or a small LED light. On the rear are a 3.5 mm audio input, a Micro HDMI port, and a USB-C port (since the frame covers the camera’s USB-C port).

Although the Hero12 Black is an excellent action camera, it is still an action camera. It doesn’t offer any sort of optical zoom, and the digital lens modes merely crop in on the image, so you’re essentially stuck with a wide-angle lens for every shot.

Better vlogging image quality, especially in low light

This APS-C mirrorless camera offers excellent image quality with 4K video, and it does so for a reasonable price. But it’s larger and far more expensive than our other picks.

When you’re ready to step up your game, the Sony α6700 offers the best combination of image quality, stabilization, and price. It’s easy to use for beginners, but it has advanced features that are useful for professionals and semi-professionals as well.

However, it’s quite expensive, so you should consider it only when you’re sure that image quality is what will take your content to the next level. Most likely this means you already have a monetized channel and know what you need from your footage. That said, this model is also a great option if you just want an excellent camera that you’ll also use for vlogging.

If that’s you, the α6700 offers a lot for the money. It can shoot extremely high-quality video, including 4K at 60 frames per second, with the option for 10-bit log recording for easier post-production color correction. This 4K footage is downsampled from 6K, so it’s extremely detailed. The α6700 can also record in-camera time-lapses and 4K at 120 fps for high-resolution slow-motion video.

This camera’s internal optical stabilization, with gyro data recorded for post-production use, can help smooth out bouncy videos, though the GoPro Hero12 Black or a gimbal is a better option if you’re doing anything particularly active. The flip-out, rotatable screen makes it easy to frame selfie shots, or when you’re holding the camera above your head or by your feet.

The APS-C sensor in this camera is larger than the one found in the ZV-1 II and significantly larger than what you get in phones and action cameras. As a result, it produces less noise in low-light situations, has a higher dynamic range , and creates a more professional-looking image overall. Fast and accurate autofocus, including eye and object tracking, helps it maintain sharp focus even when the subject is moving.

In addition, the α6700 has significantly longer battery life compared with the ZV-1 II. Sony estimates around three hours of recording time per battery, and of course you can always get another battery to swap in (and you should).

One of the biggest advantages of an interchangeable-lens camera like the α6700 is that it’s compatible with the many E-mount lenses from Sony and third-party manufacturers. That lets you greatly expand the type of videos you capture: Telephoto lenses can bring faraway subjects up close, wide-angle lenses can capture entire rooms in one shot, and so on.

Otherwise, the only issues are size and price. The ZV-1 II, the Hero12 Black, and your phone are all lightweight and easy to carry. The α6700 is small and light for what it is, but it’s a lot bigger than those alternatives. And while the α6700’s image quality is noticeably better in detail, color, and contrast, this camera typically costs more than twice as much as the ZV-1 II—and that’s without a lens.

DJI Mini 4 Pro

The best vlogging drone.

This portable, light, and capable drone offers high-end features such as obstacle avoidance and an excellent camera. It’s a great option for walk-and-talks where you don’t want to be seen holding a camera.

Cinematography drones allow filmmakers to capture unique angles and wide vistas, bringing a distinctive look to videos. For vloggers, these small flying cameras work well for creating cinematic establishing shots, recording casual walk-and-talks, and capturing action that other vlogging cameras would struggle with. And they can serve as a tripod-free option when you want to talk straight to the camera (though you’ll probably want a separate microphone).

You’ll find no shortage of great drones to choose from , but for vlogging, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is the best option. For one thing, its sub-250 gram weight makes it easy to carry with you and means that it doesn’t require FAA registration for recreational use. (That said, if you’re planning on making money from videos that incorporate drone footage, you’ll need to get your FAA Part 107 license .)

But despite the Mini 4 Pro’s light weight, it retains plenty of crucial features. It includes a sharp, stabilized 38mm-equivalent camera with an f/1.7 aperture, as well as 360-view sensors that help prevent crashes and allow the drone to track and follow subjects without ending up stranded in a tree.

It shoots at up to 4K resolution and 60 frames per second with HDR (and slow-motion 4K at 100 frames per second without HDR). The lens’s wide aperture makes for surprisingly good low-light footage, even though it’s paired with a tiny, 1/1.3-inch sensor.

The Mini 4 Pro is a bit slower than DJI’s larger Air and Mavic drones , but it can easily keep up with a walking or running subject, and it even does a fair job of keeping up with a cyclist. It’s also quieter than its larger cousins, so it’s a little less distracting for other people when you fly it out in the world.

A few key accessories will improve your video and sound quality—and by extension, how “professional” your vlog looks and sounds.

A solid, adjustable tripod: The Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB100 is perfect for many vloggers because it can extend horizontally to better position a camera over a desk or counter. Its legs can also pivot wider than those of most tripods , allowing you to position the camera lower to the ground. You could also use this tripod for vlogging with your phone (though that’s a bit overkill), as long as you add something like the Square Jellyfish Metal Spring Tripod Mount .

A good microphone: If you’re planning on staying in one place for your vlogs, such as at a desk and talking to the camera, the Blue Yeti is an excellent USB microphone and one of our longest-tenured picks. Read more about it in the section above .

For audio on the go, the Røde VideoMic Go is an affordable directional microphone that doesn’t take up too much space in a bag. Its only major downside is that it attaches to the camera, so you have to be attached to it, as well. For more freedom of movement, Røde’s Wireless Go offers a receiver that attaches to your camera and a transmitter that doubles as a microphone. You can also connect a lavalier mic . The Røde Wireless Go II adds a second transmitter, which is useful if you’re part of a vlogging couple or if you regularly interview people. It can also record internally.

Powerful editing software: To create a compelling, professional-looking video, you need to learn how to work with video-editing software, which allows you to add titles, insert graphics, combine multiple clips into longer videos, cut boring parts, and so on. It’s vital.

You can find a variety of free options, including iMovie, which is included with Apple devices. A full list of available editing apps is beyond the scope of this article, but finding one that works for you is worth the time. Popular options include Adobe Premiere Pro , Apple Final Cut Pro , and DaVinci Resolve from Blackmagic Design.

If you haven’t shot much video before, you might not know that a compact, mirrorless, or DSLR camera is typically limited to about 30 minutes of recording time for a video clip. (This is because video cameras are subject to higher import duties in some regions, notably the EU.)

If you want to record for longer stretches than that, you have to opt for a camcorder (or a Panasonic camera, since that company simply pays the duty). This restriction might make some potential vloggers think that a camcorder is a better option for their needs, but it really isn’t.

For one thing, 30 minutes is a long time when it comes to video. In general, you should keep each installation of your vlog shorter than 30 minutes in length. It’s rare that a vlog entry lasts longer, and even rarer that one would be longer than 30 minutes in a single, uninterrupted shot. It’s much more typical for a vlog post to consist of clips that are each five minutes or far less, strung together to make a final video.

Another reason is that with a camcorder you lose the great still-image capture that comes with the best vlogging cameras we’re recommending here. Even if you only rarely drop still images into your videos, you’ll be able to use your camera to capture stills for use outside of your vlogging.

Furthermore, the sensors in most reasonably priced camcorders aren’t as large as those in our picks, aside from the one in your smartphone. The larger sensors in our picks for the best vlogging cameras are better suited to capturing great video and stills across a wider array of situations.

This article was edited by Ben Keough and Erica Ogg.

Meet your guides

Geoffrey Morrison

Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .

Arriana Vasquez

Arriana Vasquez is a senior updates writer for powering, home office, cameras, and hobbies at Wirecutter. Her hobbies include reading and photography. Her photos have won several awards in various online competitions, and she is the producer and co-host of Old Books Podcast .

James Austin

James Austin is a staff writer currently covering games and hobbies, but he’s also worked on just about everything Wirecutter covers—from board games to umbrellas—and after being here for a few years he has gained approximate knowledge of many things. In his free time he enjoys taking photos, running D&D, and volunteering for a youth robotics competition.

Mentioned above

If you want to shoot sharp photos while using a slow shutter speed, we think the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB100 tripod is the best choice. The Best Tripod
Joby’s GorillaPod 1K Kit and the Square Jellyfish Metal Spring Tripod Mount are the best choices to steady your smartphone when shooting photos and video. The Best Tripod for iPhones and Other Smartphones
The best instant camera for taking high-quality, retro-cool photos is the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40. The Best Instant Camera
After testing 33 drones, we found the DJI Air 3 to be the best for most photographers and videographers. The Best Drones for Photos and Video
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If you’re unsatisfied with the camera that’s built into your computer—or if it doesn’t have one—the Logitech Brio 505 is your best option for sharp Zoom calls. The Best Webcams

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YouTube Conventions & Events

TOP 5 Best Travel Vlogging Cameras in 2024

Most of the popular vloggers and YouTube channels are about travel. These vlogs are usually extremely active and developers often do not need an extra vlogging camera.

Most of these creators separately use vlogging cameras for traveling for a number of reasons, including extra camera capabilities, extra battery life, a different shooting angle, quality, and the convenience of the camera itself.

This post reviews the best travel vlogging cameras that can be used as additional or main.

Best Cameras for Travel Vloggers

1. canon powershot g7x mark iii – top travel vlogging camera for all kinds of trips.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III Digital Camera with Advanced Accessory Bundle – Includes: SanDisk Ultra 128 GB SDXC Memory Card, Spare Extended Life Battery, 57”Professional Tripod, Carrying Case & More

The PowerShot G7X Mark III – one of the most popular cameras that most travel vloggers are using in 2024.

This version is an upgrade of the most popular camera for vlogging Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II . So if you are on the budget, you could check that one too.

The PowerShot G7X Mark III measures only 2.4 x 4.1 x 1.6″ and perfectly fits into almost every pocket. The camera uses a new sensor that features fast autofocus.

Besides, the camera can shoot in RAW format at 30 fps. The G7 X Mark III uses a 1″ 20MP sensor with a DIGIC 8 processor that provides an excellent point-and-shoot experience. The camera offers not only a 1080p Full HD video shooting.

It gets better:

If you set the mode dial, you will get additional options, including 4K quality.

The device is well-built and sits comfortably in hand. The is a grip and rubber points for security, so you won’t drop the camera that easily. It is lightweight and offers a comfortable filming experience.

Main features:

Sensor – 20.1MP BSI 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor
Lens – 24-100mm f/1.8-2.8
Screen – 3″ tilting touchscreen
Viewfinder – no
Continuous Shooting – 20 fps, 30 fps in Raw mode
Video resolution – 4K and Full HD 1080p
Battery – 265 shots + 30-40 mins of recording
Dimensions – 105.5 x 60.9 x 41 mm (4.13 x 2.39 x 1.61 inches)
Weight – 304 g (0.67 lbs)
Sturdy build quality and comfortable handling
Responsive AutoFocus and Face Detection feature
Clear tiltable touchscreen
The excellent Image Stabilization feature
4K movie resolution
No hot shoe or cold shoe for external accessories

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III faces strong competition. However, with the high 4K quality and excellent autofocus, it is a perfect and travel-friendly vlogging camera. It has a 3-tiltable touch screen with clear and detailed quality that it makes it easy to vlog.

The Canon PowerShot G7 Mark III is one of the best cameras for amateur travel vloggers. It strongly focuses on video quality and specific settings that improve it. Also, the camera offers a high degree of control over the camera's operation. Despite some negative reviews - it is a new version of the most popular vlogging camera ever, and delivers a great result.

Check the Price

2. Sony a5100 – Budget-Friendly Superb Camera for Travelers

Sony a5100 16-50mm Interchangeable Lens Camera with 3-Inch Flip Up LCD (Black)

Sony a5100 is one of the world’s smallest cameras that offers an interchangeable lens. Also, it provides a 24.3MP Exmor CMOS sensor combined with a Fast Hybrid AF system.

The Bionz X image processor ensures fantastic 1080p Full HD quality with sharp and detailed images. The a5100 camera also comes with a 3″ tiltable touchscreen – a useful feature for all types of vloggers.

Besides, you won’t have to worry about battery life as this camera can last up to 400 shots and record approx 30-40 mins of video footage.

If you are looking for the best camera for making vlogs during your trip, the Sony a5100 could be your best choice. A significant Fast Hybrid AutoFocus system allows the camera to track moving objects and keep them in focus. It means that you can easily vlog your journey while on the go.

The Sony a5100 is stated to be one of the best mid-range cameras for capturing moving objects.

Sensor – 24MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
Lens – Sony E lens mount
Screen – 3″ tiltable touchscreen
Continuous Shooting – 6 fps
Battery – 400 shots + 30-40 mins of recording
Dimensions – 110 x 63 x 36 mm (4.3 x 2.48 x 1.4 inches)
Weight – 283 g (0.62 lbs)
Tilting touchscreen that allows you to see yourself while vlogging
Built-in Wifi connectivity for faster and easier data transfer
Excellent Fast Hybrid AF system that allows the camera to track moving objects
The camera doesn’t have an EVF
Although it has a touchscreen, the controls are limited
No mic jack input

One of the main reasons why you should consider buying the Sony a5100 camera is because of the fast autofocus system. If you want a perfect and smooth travel vlog, this camera can ensure that you will have one. Besides, it offers a full 1080p HD video recording and superb built-in audio quality.

It is one of the best vlogging cameras on the list which undoubtedly will give you fantastic quality for your YouTube travel vlogs.

3. GoPro HERO 10 Black – Best Action Vlogging Camera for Travelers

GoPro HERO10 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 23MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization

Here’s the deal:

Even though GoPro Hero 11 Black is already on the market, we still highly recommend the Hero 10 Black if you are looking for an affordable, action, compact and pocket camera at the same time while traveling.

With GoPro cameras being a leading brand of action cameras, it’s no secret they had to go bigger and better with their latest model the GoPro Hero 10 Black.

Solid built with waterproof capability, the Hero 10 Black will be perfect for your travel adventures whether Mountain climbing or diving in the sea. The semi-hard case that comes with the camera is also awesome as you can keep your GoPro camera safe while still having space for other travel accessories.

Another incredible feature is the class-leading Hypersmooth 4.0 image stabilization which can capture smooth, steady videos in any weather. Its horizontal leveling and motion stabilization is top-notch as it will ensure your footage stays stable even in harsh situations.

In addition, the camera captures a 5.3K video resolution which records at an incredible 60 fps as well as 4K at 120 fps in case you want to shoot videos in slow motion. The 23.6 megapixels is also impressive as it enables the resolution to produce visible photos and videos alike.

Here is the best part:

Apart from the front touchscreen display that is great for filming your traveling vlogs, the Hero 10 comes with a back touch screen that is super responsive.

The built-in microphone is excellent too and should be more than adequate when recording your travel vlogs.

The Wi-Fi connectivity makes it easy to transfer your videos and photos to your smartphone. However, if you can’t access Wi-Fi, you have the ability to hardwire your GoPro to your smartphone via a USB cable and transfer your videos and photos in a second.

Sensor – 23MP Sensor
Lens – SuperView, Wide, Linear, Narrow
Screen – 2.27″ Fixed LCD touchscreen
Stabilization – HyperSmooth 4.0
Video resolution – 5.3K60,4K 120, 2.7K 240 and 1080p 240
Battery – 56 minutes of video recording in 5.3K/60 and 76 minutes in 4K/60
Dimensions – 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6 mm (2.8 x 2.0 x 1.3 inches)
Weight – 153 g (0.33 lbs)
Fixed touchscreen that allows you to see yourself while vlogging
Beautiful, Small, pocket-sized camera
Powerful GP2 processor
Superior image stabilization which delivers smooth and steady 5.3K at 60
New Hydrophobic lens coating
Live-streaming feature
The same small sensor as the GoPro Hero 9
Overheats in high frame rates
Short battery life

Though it shares some similar features with Hero 9, The Hero GoPro Hero 10 Black is much more user-friendly. From the new GP2 processor, HpyerSmooth 4.0, to the horizon leveling that goes up to 45 degrees, your travel vlogs will be at par with other vloggers.

If you aren’t convinced yet, what about the wired data transfer modes that are quite useful when away from the Wi-Fi range? Moreover, the waterproof coating enables you to enjoy the water activities to the fullest.

4. Olympus Tough TG-6 – Best Vlogging Camera for Adventurous Travelers

OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS TG-6 Red Underwater camera, Waterproof, Freeze proof, High Resolution Bright, 4K Video 44x Macro shooting

While traveling, it is excellent if you have a weather-resistant and sturdy device to film your journey. You won’t have to worry about dropping or damaging your equipment.

For this reason, we offer a solidly built Olympus Tough TG-6 camera. We can say that this camera body is “ everything-proof ,” and it is essential to have that type of device for travel vlogs.

The camera comes with a 12MP 1/2.3″ sensor, which is smaller than the TG-4 model that has 16MP + 4K and full HD recording quality.

However, having fewer pixels means that your camera will be better in low lighting or when you are shooting underwater. As we mentioned, The TG-6 camera can shoot at 4K at 30 fps and 1080p up to 120 fps.

Impressive!

Sensor – 12MP 1/2.3-inch sensor with raw and JPEG shooting
Lens – 25-100mm, f/2-4.9
Screen – 3″ 1,040K dots
Viewfinder – n/a
Continuous Shooting – 20 fps
Video resolution – 4K/30 fps
Battery – 340 shots, approx. 10 minutes of video recording in 4K and 30 minutes in Full HD
Dimensions – 66.04 x 111.76 x 33.02 mm (2.6 x 4.4 x 1.3 inches)
Weight – 126 g (0.27 lbs)
An internally stacked lens that adds more security
Raw image shooting and 4K video recording
The camera is sturdy and strong
Image quality could be better while filming in bright lighting
No electronic viewfinder

Even though the Olympus Tough TG-6 camera doesn't come with an electronic viewfinder and the image quality could be better in bright lighting, we can say that this is one of the best camera for travel vlogging in 2024. It is easy-to-use, lightweight, and travel-friendly.

The TG-6 camera is waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and delivers 4K video resolution simultaneously. If you are looking for a great device to travel with - choose the Olympus Tough TG-6, and you won't be disappointed.

5. Canon EOS M10 – Perfect Streamlined Entry-Level Travel Camera

Canon EOS M10 Mirrorless Camera Kit with EF-M 15-45mm Image Stabilization STM Lens Kit

Looking for a comfortable and compact vlogging camera to take to your next adventure? Don’t hesitate to get the Canon EOS M10. It might be the best compact camera for a very cheap price.

Moreover, it is comfortable to carry and easy to use, making it a great camera for travel.

An interchangeable lens camera, the M10 body is well designed and is quite solid for its class. It also has a tilting touchscreen display with over 1000 dot resolutions which is super sharp and bright enough to use outdoors even on a sunny day.

You will also love the touchscreen AF assist and the capture mode as well. The AF assist comes in handy when you want to change something, since it saves you the time of going into the menu system.

What’s more amazing is that the screen is able to flip up, therefore enabling you to show your face when recording yourself or just taking selfies.

Equipped with an 18-megapixel sensor, the M10 captures reasonably sharp images with a good level of detail. The M10 Hybrid CMOS AF II autofocus system is also beneficial to vloggers since it accurately brings images into focus.

When it comes to video, the camera records up to 1080p @30 fps as well as 720p @60 fps. This frame rate is perfect for vloggers as it enables you to post your videos on YouTube as well as other media platforms.

Sensor – 18MP APS-C size CMOS sensor
Lens – 22mm f/2 STM
Screen – 3″ Tilting LCD touchscreen
Viewfinder – No
Video resolution – 1080p 30/24 fps, 720p/ 60 fps
Battery – 255 shots
Dimensions – 108 x 66.6 x 35 mm (4.2 x 2.62 x 1.38 inches)
Weight – 301 g (0.66 lb)
Small, lightweight and easy to use
Good image quality
Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC for easy transfer of videos and photos
Great tilt touchscreen
Streamlined, comfortable camera body
Excellent touchscreen menus
In body flash
Adapter available for Canon SLR lenses
No 4K video capture
Does not have a mount for an external microphone
The camera has no high frame rate video option

When it comes down to it, the Canon EOS M10 is really decent choice for travel vlogging. Small and easy to carry, it also boasts of perfect video quality and the flip-up screen doesn’t disappoint.

The menu is very easy and simple to navigate and even though the camera has many shooting options, the auto setting is a blessing to vloggers as you get to concentrate on shooting entirely. Therefore, whether you are exploring nature or shooting in urban areas, the Canon EOS M10 has you covered.

Key Features for Travel Vlogging Camera

A camera that has high-quality video will deliver a lot of views of your travel vlog, that is for sure!

There are a lot of options that you can choose from 720p HD, 1080p Full HD, and even 4K Ultra HD quality. Well, if you want to have an excellent video resolution, we suggest having a camera that provides at least 1080p quality.

If you are looking for the best camera for travel vlogging, it should be lightweight and easy to carry around.

DSLR cameras might have the best video quality and image stabilization features. However, they are heavy and bulky.

Keep in mind, if the camera is small and compatible – it is travel-friendly. It should be easy to pack and should be a point-and-shoot type of camera. Some people like to use SLRs and even smartphones for vlogging .

A lot of vloggers like it when their camera has a tiltable screen ( flip-screen camera ).

If your camera has this feature, you can make sure that you are always in focus. Also, if you look messy, you can see that immediately. Having a vari-angle LCD screen is useful when you are a vlogger.

Well, this feature is useful to have, not only in travel-friendly cameras. The AF means that you don’t have to worry about focusing on your face.

Besides, autofocus allows you to point-and-shoot and always maintain autofocusing while filming. No more blurry videos!

While traveling, you will be moving a lot, right? Do yourself a favor and get a camera for travel that has a great image stabilization feature. It ensures that your video will be smooth and steady, even if you are running up a mountain.

Besides, if you wish, you can get a tripod for vlogging , making camera handling easier.

A good travel vlog is not only about video quality. You should have high audio quality if you want to explain where you are traveling and sightseeing.

Sometimes, it is not enough to have a great built-in microphone (windy or rainy days, noisy and crowded places). If your camera has an audio input, you can easily connect an external microphone for better audio quality.

Well, this is not a common feature that most travel vloggers are looking for; however, it is super helpful.

Image if you are traveling near the water (sea, ocean, or lake). Having a waterproof camera , or at least a case for it means that you don’t have to worry about getting your travel camera wet. You can even go snorkeling or surfing with a camera and record your experience.

It would surprise you how a camera with a rugged design helps for travel vlogging.

Imagine yourself climbing up a mountain and vlogging your emotions, and suddenly, you drop your camera, and it cracks or breaks. Your vlog is lost, and you won’t be able to record anymore.

Well, with a robust and rugged design, you would be safe that drooping a camera won’t affect your traveling.

If you are choosing a travel vlogging camera, you should know what type of features you are looking for. The main criteria are that the device needs to be lightweight and easy to use.

You don’t want to waste a lot of backpack space and carry a bulky DSLR to have that perfect quality. As you can see from this guide, there are a lot of small compatible cameras with a 4K movie resolution and excellent image stabilization.

If you are more like a super adventurous traveler, the GoPro Hero 10 Black or Olympus Tough TG-6 cameras would be the best option for the waterproof and shockproof features.
If you want to record your trip most simply, point-and-shoot or compact cameras are what you should look for.

We hope that you like this guide and that now you know how to choose the best cameras for travel vlogging.

Blogging VS Vlogging 2024: How to Choose? [Definitive Guide]

I am Glen and I’m a 100% tech-addicted guy, Blogger, Video Editor and Entrepreneur. I spent a lot of my time learning how to properly edit videos, I've tested a lot of vlogging equipment and now with my team, I share all these tips with you.

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The best YouTube camera 2024: top choices for your new channel

We’ve tested the best YouTube cameras for creating video content

Best overall
Best for AI tools
Best premium compact
Best for filmmakers
Best for enthusiasts
Best portable
Best value hybrid
Best value compact
Best action
Best value pro
Best webcam
How to choose
How we test

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best for AI tools 4. Best premium compact 5. Best for filmmakers 6. Best for enthusiasts 7. Best portable 8. Best value hybrid 9. Best value compact 10. Best action 11. Best value pro 12. Best webcam 13. How to choose 14. How we test

New channel or established creator: the best YouTube cameras will help you on your way to winning a Gold Play Button. We've extensively tested all of the top YouTube cameras and ranked our favorites in the expert guide below. Whatever kind of content you like to shoot and share, we've put together this round-up to help you find your ideal YouTube camera.

Based on our exhaustive review process, we think the best YouTube camera overall is the Panasonic Lumix GH6. It lacks the livestreaming skills of the GH5 Mark II , but offers a vast array of shooting modes and formats. In fact, we rate it as the best 4K camera you can buy in 2024.

If you're looking for something more compact, we highly recommend the Sony ZV-E1. Among the best vlogging cameras , its AI framing smarts make it easy to shoot high-quality handheld 4K vlogs for YouTube. Thanks to its dimensions, it's also very travel-friendly for shooting YouTube content on the move.

Our round-up covers the best YouTube cameras in every category. Each entry has been objectively assessed to see how it performs in the real world. Our reviewers test factors such as video quality, audio connectivity and battery life, as well as handling, autofocus and more. You'll find the results summarized below, along with useful advice to keep in mind when choosing the right YouTube camera.

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. Tim notes, "YouTube cameras today come in a range of shapes and sizes, spanning everything from pocket-friendly action cameras to full-frame mirrorless models. Recognizing that different YouTubers have different shooting requirements, we've covered all bases and budgets in the list below."

The quick list

Use the summary round-up below to get an overview of the best YouTube cameras. When you find one that fits your need and budget, you can use the links beneath each entry to jump down to our full insights.

Panasonic Lumix GH6 on a white background

The best YouTube camera overall

Compact yet packed with video features, the Lumix GH6 is the top choice for YouTubers who don’t need livestreaming.

The best YouTube camera with AI tools

Equipped with AI framing and tracking smarts, the ZV-E1 makes it easy to shoot high-quality handheld solo vlogs for YouTube.

The best premium compact for YouTube

Feature-packed and pocket-friendly, the Sony ZV-1 is our favorite compact camera for recording Youtube videos.

Panasonic Lumix S5 II on a white background

The best YouTube camera for enthusiasts

A 6K workhorse with phase detection autofocus and effective stabilization, the Lumix S5 II ideal for YouTube videographers.

Fujifilm X-S20 camera on a white background

The best 6K camera for enthusiasts

Automated modes and better subject tracking complement 6K/30p video to make the X-S20 an APS-C winner for YouTubers.

DJI Pocket 3 camera on a white background

The best portable YouTube camera

Travel-friendly and easy to use, DJI's upgraded gimbal pairs subject tracking with superb stabilization for solo YouTube vloggers.

Load the next 5 products...

Canon EOS R10 mirrorless camera on a white background

The best value hybrid YouTube camera

Modern autofocus, good handling and 4K/30p video cropped from 6K make the Canon EOS R10 a great option for beginners.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III on a white background

The best value compact YouTube camera

4K video, a 3.5mm mic input, a flip-up screen and livestreaming to YouTube mean this compact still offers great value.

The best YouTube action camera

It's not a huge upgrade, but new audio options and a crop-friendly aspect ratio make the Hero 12 Black great for content creators.

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro on a white background

The best value pro YouTube camera

It’s not without quirks, but the 6K Pro is a tidy, relatively affordable tool for pro YouTube videographers to shoot footage at 6K/50p.

The best webcam for YouTube

It’s pricey for a webcam, but if streaming is your YouTube niche, the Kiyo Pro does it at a buttery 60fps.

^ Back to the top

The best YouTube cameras in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best YouTube cameras in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best YouTube camera for most people

The Panasonic GH6 camera sitting on a tripod

1. Panasonic Lumix GH6

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a lightweight powerhouse: Despite its tidy proportions, the GH6 is a video monster, with 10-bit ProRes support and unlimited recording times.

✅ You value a rugged build: Designed around a magnesium frame, the Panasonic GH6 is a tough camera that’s both dust- and splash-proof.

❌ You need the very best autofocus: Contrast-based autofocus works well here, but it still lags behind the hybrid phase detection used by rivals.

❌ You want a full-frame sensor: The Micro Four Thirds sensor inside the GH6 delivers excellent results, but full-frame is better for low light.

Panasonic’s GH5 Mark II is an excellent camera for creating 4K content, with the added bonus of letting you live-stream straight to YouTube. The GH6 loses the streaming option but improves pretty much every other spec: with a 25.2MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, it can shoot 5.7K footage at 30fps. Overkill for casual YouTubers, its 10-bit video modes provide huge flexibility for those who like to color grade in post. Usefully, ProRes and H.265 formats are supported by both the GH6 and YouTube. The V2.3 firmware update also enhanced its external recording capabilities to include 12-bit Blackmagic RAW, and added support for 4K/120p via HDMI.

Slightly larger than the GH5 Mark II, the GH6 remains a relatively compact tool for shooting YouTube videos outside a studio. Forced-fan cooling also means unlimited recording times – handy if you’re targeting YouTube’s 12-hour cap for verified accounts. During our tests, we appreciated its robust, familiar build, plus a few useful features not present on other Lumix models: the free-angle touchscreen also tilts, there are tally lights front and back, plus a record button on the front. An algorithmic upgrade has also boosted stabilization performance. If you can do without phase-detection autofocus offered by the Lumix S5 II (below), the GH6 is a portable powerhouse for YouTubers.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix GH6 review

The Sony ZV-E1 camera sitting on a wooden table

2. Sony ZV-E1

✅ You’re a solo YouTuber: Compact and equipped with clever AI modes that automate framing, the ZV-E1 is ideal for working alone.

✅ You like streamlined edits: Tools like Auto Framing limit the need for editing, while the Cine Vlog setting looks good out of the camera.

❌ You don’t shoot slow motion: If higher frame rates aren’t in your content calendar, the Sony ZV-E10 may offer better value.

❌ You’re a serious videographer: For cooling vents, dual card slots and unlimited record times, you’ll want to look at the Sony FX3.

If you want a compact YouTube camera that’s easy to use, the Sony ZV-E1 should sit high on your list. The ZV-E10 trumps it for outright portability, but as the smallest, lightest full-frame camera with image stabilization, the ZV-E1 is arguably the ultimate combination of convenience and quality for shooting YouTube content on the move. During our review, the ZV-E1 captured crisp 4K 30p video in a range of shooting scenarios. Its in-body image stabilization also proved impressive, delivering fantastically smooth footage that’s ideal for run and gun YouTubers who want to shoot handheld without a gimbal.

The ZV-E1 uses AI smarts to make life easier for solo content creators: Auto Framing can reliably track subjects across a scene, which leaves less to edit later. With no cooling vents and only a single card slot, the ZV-E1 isn’t the perfect YouTube camera for power users. It was also a little tricky in testing to see the touchscreen when shooting outside. But for individual creators who want a full-frame tool that’s clever and easy to use, the ZV-E1 is a top choice for 4K filming.

Read our in-depth Sony ZV-E1 review

Sony ZV-1 with the optional microphone muff

3. Sony ZV-1

✅ You want a powerful pocket tool: Small yet capable of 4K that beats your smartphone, this is the best compact for YouTubers.

✅ You want class-leading autofocus: A bright lens and top-tier autofocus make a great combination for recording at close quarters.

❌ You want the smoothest handheld video: Active SteadyShot stabilization is good but the gimbal on the DJI Pocket 2 does better. ❌ You need an all-weather camera: While the Sony ZV-1 is well-made, it lacks weather-proofing, so it can’t be used in all conditions.

The Sony ZV-1 delivers pretty much everything the roaming YouTuber needs, all in a compact package. Sony’s class-leading Real-time tracking and Real-time Eye AF systems keep you in focus as you move around the frame, while the bright lens and large 1-inch sensor size mean clear, crisp images in most conditions, as well as attractive background bokeh – a rarity on pocket-sized cameras. Naturally, it’s not completely flawless: we found the touchscreen controls a little limited and Sony’s stuck with the ageing microUSB rather than a more versatile USB-C port. Video stabilization also falls just short of the best.

That said, we found thoughtful touches everywhere in our review. The hotshoe can accommodate an external mic or LED light without blocking the side-flipping touchscreen; the video record button is larger than on regular compacts; and a built-in ND filter helps you shoot smooth movement on brighter days. It even offers a 'Product Showcase' feature aimed specifically at reviews-based YouTubers. The ZV-1F is a simpler grab-and-go option, while the ZV-E10 is a clear step up for vloggers. But if you want the best balance of price, performance and portability, the Sony ZV-E1 is the top premium compact for YouTubers.

Read our in-depth Sony ZV-1 review

The best YouTube camera for filmmakers

Panasonic Lumix S5 II camera on a table with view of the front

4. Panasonic Lumix S5 II

✅ You crop your clips: Uncropped 6K recording means you can easily crop video to different aspect ratios for different platforms.

✅ You’re a run-and-gun shooter: Image stabilization, phase detection AF and a lightweight body make the S5 II ideal for shooting on the move.

❌ You shoot a lot of slow-mo: There’s a limiting 1.5x crop on 4K/60p video, which can be limiting when you want a wide view.

❌ You want stylish camera: Design is subjective, but the angular DSLR styling of the S5 II won’t be to every taste.

Many YouTubers don’t need a full-frame camera. But if you want to record YouTube videos with a larger sensor, we highly rate the Panasonic S5 II. It weighs less than the Panasonic GH6, yet still feels solid in the hand. We also found it intuitive to control in testing, aided by a crisp vari-angle touchscreen. While some will feel the absence of a tally light, the introduction of phase detection autofocus for video is an overdue and welcome one. We particularly appreciate the ability to change speed and sensitivity, which allows for smooth focus shifts.

From our review, the Panasonic S5 II excels when shooting video. It produces excellent 6K/30p footage for YouTube, capturing rich colors and wide dynamic range. Usefully, 6K is recorded using the full area of the sensor, which means you can crop content for different uses within your videos. Effective image stabilization also makes it capable of shooting YouTube content handheld. 4K/60p does come with a restrictive 1.5x crop, while features such as wireless IP streaming are kept back for the more expensive Lumix S5 IIX . All the same, we rank the Lumix S5 II as a convincing hybrid package for YouTubers.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S5 II review

5. Fujifilm X-S20

✅ You plan to record all day: With a battery life double that of the X-S10, the X-S20 will last for a full day of moderate use.

✅ You’re a beginner with ambition: It’s pricey, but the X-S20 is beginner friendly while offering lots of room to grow.

❌ You need a tough camera: The X-S20 has excellent build quality, but it isn’t sealed against the elements.

❌ You’re on a tight budget: The X-S20 is a highly capable 6K hybrid, but you’ll pay for the privilege of its skills.

With automated features designed to make vlogging easier, the Fujifilm X-S20 is a user-friendly upgrade from the X-S10 – already one of the top YouTube cameras. The 26.1MP sensor inside has already proven its abilities in the X-S10 and X-T4. But the X-S20 steps things up with 6K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording. This will be more than most YouTubers need, but it makes the X-S20 a great choice for hobbyists who are serious about shooting and sharing video. Better in-body image stabilization also proved effective in testing for recording handheld.

We found it comfortable to handle in testing, too, with straightforward top plate dials making it easier to control more advanced settings. The balanced design and articulating touchscreen of the X-S10 continue to serve it well. We only wish that Fujifilm had added weather sealing. Still, with creative settings – such as ‘Background Defocus’ and ‘Product Priority’ – just a tap away in the dedicated Vlog mode, the X-S20 is a tempting proposition for creating YouTube content, even if its price tag will discourage some beginners,

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-S20 review

6. DJI Osmo Pocket 3

✅ You want steady YouTube Shorts: Portrait recording with stabilization at 3K resolution makes the Pocket 3 a content creator's dream.

✅ You record videos alone: Face auto-detect and dynamic framing mean the Pocket 3 can do the job of a recording crew.

❌ You already own a Pocket 2: If you don't need portrait recording or low-light improvements, you'll find better value by waiting for the Pocket 4.

❌ You like a large touchscreen: While the 2-inch display is twice the size, it's still on the small size compared to mirrorless rivals.

DJI ’s latest vlogging camera doesn’t buck the trend continued by the Pocket 2 : it’s a handheld, three-axis gimbal camera that captures stabilized 4K video on the fly. But it also introduces a fleet of new features that make it a more compelling YouTube camera for those don’t own its predecessor. Chief among them is a new 1-inch sensor. In testing, we found that it delivers excellent dynamic range, while improving low-light performance. Paired with the introduction of live-streaming support and portrait 3K recording, we think it has huge appeal for YouTube Shorts creators.

The upgraded battery capacity impressed in our review, too, offering a significant jump in longevity, while simultaneously halving the recharge time. ActiveTrack 6.0 performed flawlessly as well, with dynamic framing and automatic face tracking making it easy to shoot sharp videos solo. And at twice the size of the display on the Pocket 2, the Pocket 3’s touchscreen is still small but much more useful. We also appreciated its overall ease of use, as well as the additional features offered by the DJI Memo app. As a travel-friendly tool for shooting detailed footage for YouTube, the Pocket 3 is hard to beat.

Read our in-depth DJI Pocket 3 review

The Canon EOS R10 camers sitting on a wooden bannister

7. Canon EOS R10

✅ You’re a beginner YouTuber: Small, easy to use and equipped with powerful video features, the R10 is great for beginners.

✅ You want a hybrid camera: The R10 does stills and video very well, making it a great all-rounder for its size and price.

❌ You want a pro setup: With no headphone port or image stabilization, the R10 has entry-level skills for YouTube shooting.

❌ You like a wide choice of lenses: The R10 lacks a wide range of native lenses, which could limit creative flexibility.

Pairing accessibility with performance, we think the Canon EOS R10 is a great APS-C hybrid for fledgling YouTubers to get to grips with. In testing, we found it comfortable to hold, with a combination of dials, a joystick and an articulating touchscreen making it easy to control and shoot with. As well as a mic input, the EOS R10 features Canon’s multi-function accessory shoe, something not found even on some full-frame Canon models.

Low-light recording options are limited because the sensor isn’t backside-illuminated and there’s no in-body image stabilization. Even so, the EOS R10 performs well against mirrorless rivals. Uncropped 4K/30p is oversampled from the sensor’s 6K resolution, and even with a 1.56x crop, the ability to shoot 4K at 60fps is useful for YouTubers who want to create half-speed cut-scenes. While there’s no flat color profile, there is a useful ‘ HDR PQ’ mode that delivers 4:2:2 10-bit quality, plus you can record clips for up to two hours. All of which make the EOS R10 a very capable hybrid shooting tool for YouTube creators.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS R10 review

8. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

✅ You want a video-first compact: Designed as a compact video tool, the Mark III puts reliable 4K recording in your pocket.

✅ You value physical controls: A responsive flip-up touchscreen is paired with four physical control dials for direct access.

❌ You want a hotshoe mic: Although there’s an input on the side, the Mark III doesn’t feature a hotshoe to support a microphone.

❌ You want the sharpest video: 4K quality from the Mark III is good but its small sensor can’t compete with the best in this list.

The latest incarnation of Canon’s G7 X series ups the video ante by adding 4K recording and a microphone socket. These slot in nicely beside the large 1-inch sensor, superb image stabilization, tilting touchscreen and USB charging to make this a very capable compact for making YouTube content. What’s more, it comes with YouTube live-streaming support out of the box: tether it to your smartphone or a Wi-Fi network and you can broadcast live to the world.

We found the camera sturdily built in our review, sitting nicely in the hand and benefitting from responsive touchscreen controls. Despite the microphone socket there’s no hotshoe, though, so you’ll have to mount your mic elsewhere. We also felt the contrast-detection autofocus system was a little less advanced than the hybrid setups on rivals like the Sony ZV-1. Still, YouTubers looking for a pocket-sized camera should definitely consider this a worthy alternative.

Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III review

The best action camera for YouTube

9. GoPro Hero 12 Black

✅ You shoot for YouTube shorts: The sensor's 8:7 aspect ratio gives you flexibility to crop for vertical videos.

✅ You're a YouTube adventurer: Top-class image stabilization and versatile mounting options make this an adventurer's best friend.

❌ You record low-light video for YouTube: Its unchanged 1/1.9-inch sensor size means the Hero 12 Black still struggles in dim conditions.

❌ You don't shoot in portrait: If you record landscape videos, there's better 5.3K value to be found from the Hero 10 Black.

A fresh iteration of GoPro’s proven recipe, the Hero 12 Black builds on the same hardware as the Hero 11 Black . Physically identical, it retains the same 27MP 8:7 aspect ratio sensor that accommodates cropping for YouTube Shorts. Video still maxes out at 5.3K/60p, with results that continued to impress in testing. And low-light performance remains a disappointing Achilles heel. But there are also enough new features to make this our favorite action camera for YouTube.

We found the addition of a 1/4-inch tripod thread between its mounting feet instantly useful, while HDR and GP-Log video capture unlocked even greater dynamic range in testing. Support for Bluetooth audio inputs is also a win for YouTube vloggers, as is HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, which we found to be supremely slick in our review. You get backwards-compatibility with existing accessories, including the Media Mod, as well as the familiarly intuitive touch interface, too. If you already own the Hero 11 Black, you won’t find too many headline improvements to justify an upgrade. But if you want a new YouTube action camera – or you’re switching from an older GoPro – the Hero 12 Black is the most complete option out there.

Read our in-depth GoPro Hero 12 Black review

10. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro

✅ You want top-quality video: If your YouTube channel is focused on quality, the 6K Pro delivers superb results.

✅ You value handling: Its small size, large screen and simple controls make the 6K Pro a neat camera to operate and shoot with.

❌ You’re a novice: The 6K Pro isn’t a camera for beginners and doesn’t offer the user-friendly features to beginners learn the ropes of videography.

❌ You don’t have a powerful computer: Editing RAW 6K files requires serious computing oomph, so you’ll need a system with serious space and power.

A baffling camera for beginners, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro is a fantastic option for experienced video enthusiasts who want to take their YouTube content to the next level. Skipping many of the accessible features you’d expect from a consumer camera, the 6K Pro is instead dedicated to top-notch videography alone. That means no image stabilization, no tracking autofocus and seriously limited stills abilities. It also means you get a huge 5-inch tilting touchscreen – ideal for framing – built-in dual microphones, two mini XLR inputs, plus the option of adding an OLED viewfinder and battery grip.

Because it’s relatively compact, the 6K Pro is perfect for filming b-roll and off-the-cuff material for your next upload, while we liked the simple controls that give it an unfussy, focused feel. And as the name suggests, it can capture superb raw 6K video, complimented by time-saving integrated ND filters. If you know your way around a video camera – and you have the computer power and bandwidth to handle huge files – the 6K Pro is a truly powerful tool for the price.

Read our in-depth Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro review

11. Razer Kiyo Pro

✅ You want a smoother stream: The Kiyo Pro favors frame rates over outright resolution, upgrading your YouTube channel with 60fps footage.

✅ You want an instant quality boost: The Kiyo Pro delivers fantastic quality out of the box, bettered only by rigging up a camera as a streaming tool.

❌ You’re on a tight budget: The Kiyo Pro is very expensive for a webcam, and there are cheaper alternatives if you don’t need the very best.

❌ You don’t have a free USB-A 3.0 port: You need a fast port for the Kiyo Pro to work, so it’s not a good fit for older hardware.

If your YouTube content consists of footage recorded at home, you won’t find many webcams better than the Razer Kiyo Pro. Styled like a DSLR lens, it can clip to the top of a monitor for slick sit-down streaming. Alternatively, use the tripod attachment to flexibly position the Pro – ideal for creative framing or recording handheld segments, such as unboxings. The camera itself is larger than a standard webcam due to its powerful sensor, which is capable of capturing footage at a smooth 60fps.

Exposure is excellent as standard and we found that the adaptive sensor does a stellar job pulling in all available light. Switching to HDR mode limits the frame rate to 30fps, but improves the balance of highlights and shadows. If your recording room includes low ambient lighting, the webcam’s color correction can occasionally misfire, but this is easily resolved with a burst of bright light. Setup is simple, while the ability to tweak settings via Razer’s Synapse software – including three fields of view – makes the Kiyo Pro ideal for all kinds of YouTube content.

Read our in-depth Razer Kiyo Pro review

How to choose the best YouTube camera for you

While your needs will vary slightly depending on the kind of videos you're looking to shoot, there are five main features that you should look for in a YouTube camera:

1. Articulating screen

Whether it flips out to the side or pivots up to the top, an articulating screen is a godsend when trying to film yourself. By giving you a live preview of the shot composition, exposure and focus, it helps you get the basics right so you can concentrate on other aspects of your video.

2. Good autofocus

Manual focus has its place in filmmaking, but to keep everything as simple and straightforward as possible it pays to pick a camera with great video autofocus. Face and/or eye tracking helps if you tend to move around a lot in your videos, as the focus will adjust itself automatically to compensate.

3. Built-in stabilization

Filming on the hoof can result in shaky, hard to watch footage. Thankfully a lot of modern cameras come with image stabilization (optical, electronic or a combination of the two) to automatically compensates for motion. Some, it should be noted, do it much better than others. Alternatively, a gimbal can stabilize pretty much any camera, at the cost of adding bulk.

4. Audio options

A camera’s built-in microphone can record sound – but using an external microphone will vastly improve clarity and likely cut down on unwanted ambient noise. Check potential buys for mic inputs and a hot shoe for mounting mics. You might want to consider headphone sockets too: they allow you to monitor audio levels while recording.

5. Livestreaming options

This might not be vital for those making videos to upload after filming and editing, but for anyone who wants to broadcast live, it’s well worth checking to see if a potential camera supports YouTube livestreaming. It’s not just smartphones and webcams anymore – more and more cameras are coming with the technology built-in.

What camera do most YouTubers use?

YouTubers use a range of cameras to capture their content. As the list above illustrates, the most useful camera for a YouTuber will often be dictated by the type of content that they’re shooting, whether that’s in the studio or out on the street. But there are certain cameras which are particularly popular with a number of well-known YouTube content creators.

The Sony A7S III comes up time and again when YouTubers are asked about the gear they use. That’s no surprise: Sony’s Alpha series has long been popular with videographers, and the A7S III combines mirrorless performance and interchangeable lens versatility with a full-frame sensor that’s optimized for 4K video. It also supports all manner of filming formats, making it ideal for content creators who like to tweak their footage before sharing online. That said, the price tag of the A7S III (US$3,500 / £3,800 / AU$5,799) makes it an expensive option for most people.

It’s a similar story with some of the other equipment used by YouTubers, with cameras like the Panasonic Lumix S1H and Canon EOS R5 proving popular thanks to their comprehensive video specs, but with price tags that are prohibitive for fledgling content creators.

Helpfully, a number of YouTubers use less expensive cameras which can still capture high-quality footage. The Sony ZV-1 is increasingly becoming a favorite among YouTube vloggers who like to walk and talk, while the original Panasonic Lumix GH5 is another more affordable model which continues to be used by several YouTubers.

What's more, many YouTubers today don't use a camera at all. With dramatic improvements in the quality of smartphone videography, the best camera phones make it easy to shoot quick, sharp clips, ideal for vlog-style content or YouTube Shorts. With the best video editing apps , you can also use a smartphone to create cinematic content.

What camera is best for YouTube beginners?

As you’ll see from the comprehensive list above, the best YouTube cameras ship in a range of styles and formats. There’s no single camera that works best for every beginner, because the right choice will depend on how and what you plan to record for your YouTube channel. That’s why it’s worth reading our full guide to understand the merits of every option.

That said, the best beginner YouTube cameras are easy for first-timers to use. Many feature touchscreen interfaces that are familiar for smartphone users. Most are also easy to handle and feature automatic modes that let you shoot sharp, bright video content with little or no post-production work. Some of the best let you live-stream to YouTube, too.

One example is the Sony ZV-1, which we think is one of the best cameras for YouTube beginners. As a premium compact, its proportions will feel comfortable for anyone who’s ever wielded a point-and-shoot. Its interface is accessible too, with a large video record button and useful side-flipping touchscreen. Yet thanks to a capable 1-inch sensor, excellent autofocus and useful hotshoe mount on top, it’s also a versatile video tool. We also highly rate the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III as a slightly older, more affordable premium compact.

If you’re planning to record YouTube vlogs in mixed conditions, something like the GoPro Hero 11 Black can record high-resolution video with class-leading stabilization. It also benefits from a streamlined touchscreen interface and handy front-facing display, all wrapped up in a rugged shell.

Or for a solo shooting tool that looks like nothing else, the DJI Pocket 2 is worth considering for beginners. It attaches a smartphone-style sensor to a stabilizing gimbal, then adds subject-tracking smarts into the mix. The result is a pocket-friendly tool for shooting YouTube content on the move.

Sony ZV-1 II camera in the hand with rear screen

How we test YouTube cameras

The most important features for a YouTube camera are its video quality, autofocus, in-body image stabilization and audio options, so those are the main areas our tests focus on.

To review the video quality, we shoot at the camera's highest resolution and frame-rate in a variety of handheld scenes, including the popular walk-and-talk style, to see how it handles colors, skin tones, detail and rolling shutter. We also include high-contrast scenes to test how well the auto-exposure and white balance adapt to changes in lighting.

Fujifilm X-S20 camera with screen flipped out in vlog mode

These tests are also a good opportunity to the test the YouTube camera's Face and Eye tracking autofocus, along with the quality of its stabilization (both electronic and mechanical, if available).

Another thing we test in these scenes is an oft-overlooked part of the YouTube equation for vloggers: the built-in microphones. If the camera has a microphone input, we'll also use it with an external lav mic to see how the quality compares to its internal audio.

Many of the latest YouTube cameras include additional features like flat color profiles, articulating touchscreens, built-in ND filters and, in Sony's case, a 'product showcase' feature that's ideal for those who run a channel from home. If available, we test all of these functions to see how they fare compared to their closest rivals, then wrap up our conclusions based on our various impressions of the camera's build quality, design, video quality, audio quality and features.

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Tim is the Cameras editor at TechRadar. He has enjoyed more than 15 years in the photo video industry with most of those in the world of tech journalism. During his time as Deputy Technical Editor with Amateur Photographer, as a freelancer and consequently editor at Tech Radar, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with cameras, educating others through news, reviews and features. He’s also worked in video production for Studio 44 with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi. Tim is curious, a keen creative, avid footballer and runner, and moderate flat white drinker who has lived in Kenya and believes we have much to enjoy and learn from each other.

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The best camera for YouTube

Find the best camera for YouTube videos, including the best mirrorless cameras, compacts and best action cameras.

1. Best overall
2. Best value
3. Best full-frame
4. Best pro camera
5. Best action camera
6. Best Nikon
8. Best modular
9. Best DSLR
How to choose
How we test

Jump to the quick list↴ 1. Best overall : Canon G7 X Mark III 2. Best value : Sony ZV-E10 3. Best full-frame : Panasonic GH6 4. Best pro : Canon EOS R5 5. Best action cam : GoPro Hero11 6. Best Nikon : Nikon Z30 7. Best 6K : Blackmagic Pocket 8. Best modular : DJI Action 2 9. Best DSLR : Canon EOS 90D How to choose FAQs How we test

The best camera for YouTube is probably one of the first things on your shopping list if you're getting started on the platform or aiming to improve the quality of your content. YouTube remains the world's biggest video-sharing platform, and creatives can use it to promote their work, and even turn it into a business, so it's worth taking the time to find the best camera for YouTube for your needs.

Our reviewers have personally tested a range of options to pick out the best YouTube camera for different niches and budgets, including the best Canon vlogging cameras, Sony vlogging cameras, action YouTube cameras like GoPro and more. As well as premium options, we've included cheaper cameras suitable for beginners who aren't ready to make a big investment in their content. For each option, we compare their specs, including maximum video resolutions and frame rates. If you need clarification of any of the terminology, check the FAQ section at the bottom.

To improve your YouTube setup further, you might also want to see our pick of the best ring lights , since these can significantly improve how you look on screen. We also have a guide to the best video editing apps for YouTube . If you're looking for a more general camera, we have a guide to the best cameras overall, and if you're broadcasting live, see our pick of the best cameras for streaming .

Product shot of Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III, one of the best cameras for YouTube

This compact camera is a jack-of-all-trades capable of 4K UHD video at 30p and HD up to 120fps for slow motion. It has a mic jack, a non-changeable lens with a wide aperture for low-light shooting and enough zoom for most situations and it can live stream. Read more below

Product shot of Sony ZV-E10, one of the best cameras for YouTube

For more flexibility, the Sony ZV-E10 is our pick as the best mirrorless camera for YouTubers who want the option to change lenses at a mid-range price. We were impressed by the 4K UHD and Full HD at 120p, and the built-in mics do well too. Read more below

Product shot of Panasonic Lumix GH6, one of the best cameras for YouTube

For speed and myriad recording options, this full-frame camera is a spectacular option for video. The 25MP stacked sensor enables faster readout speeds, opening up most possibilities. It can shoot using every codec a YouTuber could want, and it can go up to 5.7K at 30fps in Apple ProRes format. Read more below

The best cameras for YouTube available now

Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

The best camera for YouTube overall

Best camera for YouTube: Canon G7 X Mark III

01. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

A lot of YouTubers highly rate the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III, and it's easy to see why. It's not the most exceptional camera in any category really, but a superb jack-of-all-trades, doing everything that YouTubers need it to do, all in a tiny body that you can basically take anywhere.

This little camera is capable of 4K UHD video at 30p (although there is a recording time limit of 10 minutes), and HD video is available at up to 120fps, allowing you to create slow-motion effects. The Mark III version adds a 3.5mm mic jack, which makes a difference in terms of audio quality. The 24-100mm f/1.8-2.8 lens is fixed and can't be changed, however, this zoom range is fine for most YouTube use, and the maximum aperture of f/1.8 is generous enough to make the G7X Mark III pretty nifty in low light.

Another real plus for YouTubers are concerned is that the camera can livestream, broadcasting footage with a clean HDMI out. There are cameras out there with more advanced video specs, but the majority of content creators won't need them. This is an ideal choice for the majority of purposes. It's one of the best point-and-shoot cameras you can buy..

Back to the top ⤴

The best value camera for YouTube

Sony ZV-E10 with wind shield best camera for vlogging

02. Sony ZV-E10

Sony had for a while been hurting for a dedicated mid-range vlogging camera. While the ZV-1 compact was nice, what vloggers and YouTubers were really after was a mirrorless camera that would allow them to change lenses and generally be more flexible. Step forward, the Sony ZV-E10, an APS-C mirrorless camera absolutely loaded with video features.

The 4K UHD detail and quality is excellent, while Full HD can be stepped up to 120p for slow-motion footage. Also, while buying an external microphone is always better, if you're working on a tight budget, the built-in mics on the ZV-E10 do a thoroughly credible job, thanks in part to the larger grille on top that allows for higher-fidelity sound capture.

It's not a perfect camera – there's a marked rolling shutter effect that occurs when you try to pan in 4K, and as is so often the case with Sony, the menus can be confusing. These are small points, however, and the core experience of the Sony ZV-E10 truly is very solid.

See our full Sony ZV-E10 review for more on our reviewer's personal experience with his camera.

The best full-frame camera for YouTube

Best camera for YouTube: Panasonic Lumix GH6

03. Panasonic Lumix GH6

Every YouTuber is going to be at a different skill level, with some boasting much more advanced video knowledge than others. If you're someone who likes to get under the bonnet of a camera and tinker with your video footage until it's precisely perfect, then the Panasonic Lumix GH6 is for you. This is one of the best consumer video cameras ever made.

The beating heart of the camera is its new 25MP stacked sensor, which enables much faster readout speeds, and means that it puts many more video options at the user's disposal. It can shoot using basically every conceivable codec a filmmaker or YouTuber could want, and it can go up to 5.7K resolution at 30fps in Apple ProRes format.

If this doesn't mean much to you, then the Lumix GH6 is probably more camera than you need, and you can safely go for a cheaper option. However, for the geeks among us, it's an absolutely superb choice. A CFexpress Type B card slot allows you to insert one of the fastest and best memory cards to take advantage of the high-quality formats.

The best professional camera for YouTube

Photograph of Canon EOS R5 mirrorless camera on wooden surface

04. Canon EOS R5

If you've got budget to spare, and are looking at the high-end of camera tech, then we'd recommend considering the Canon EOS R5. It's a hybrid camera designed for both stills and video shooters, but its video features are some of the best in class. The headline spec is 8K at 30p, which is more than you need for YouTube, but this also gives you the option to crop in and get excellent 4K footage, or shoot in 4K natively and enjoy some of the best-looking video you can get. You can even dial 4K up to a frame rate of 120fps if you want.

Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS II autofocus is one of the best systems in the business, and it works fantastically for video as well as stills. Video also benefits from in-body image stabilisation, making it a simpler task to capture smooth footage while using the camera hand-held. The burgeoning selection of RF lenses is also fantastic, with some of the sharpest optics around, and if you already have EF DSLR lenses, then the EF-to-RF adapter lets you use them on the R5 with full functionality.

It's not a perfect camera – it gained something of a reputation on release for its recording limits in high resolutions due to an overheating issue. It's not a crippling issue, just something to be aware of; as we made plain in our full review, this is still one of the most advanced cameras overall and one of the most versatile professional options for YouTubers. See our full Canon EOS R5 review for more details.

The best action camera for YouTube

A photo of the GoPro Hero 10 Black, one of the best cameras for YouTube

05. GoPro Hero11 Black

Throw it in a lake, hurl it off a mountain, or bounce it along on a mountain bike, if you need extreme durability, then GoPro is the brand for you. If you plan on capturing sports for your YouTube channel, no matter how extreme, then the small and robust GoPro Hero 11 Black is for you.

Superseding the popular Hero 10 Black this September, the Hero 11 is waterproof to 33 feet down, will send highlight videos automatically to your phone and now has a longer-lasting Enduro battery. It retains the 10's useful front screen to make selfie vlogging easier and it has updated its class-leading HyperSmooth 4.0 with the, wait for it, HyperSmooth 5.0 image stabilisation. It can capture smooth, steady footage when being thrown around in extreme conditions.

The Hero10 Black now captures even more detail thanks to the 5.3K video resolution (91% more than 4K) which it records at an incredible 60FPS. There's also a new video feature of 4K at 120FPS for those who like to capture footage for slow motion, and the horizon lock feature makes every jump, flight or wild descent look even more impressive. Extreme shooters that need a camera that can keep up with them should opt for the Hero11 Black if they want smooth video and reliable results.

See our fuller GoPro Hero10 Black review for more details.

The best Nikon camera for YouTube

06. Nikon Z30

Nikon now has three APS-C cameras in its Z mirrorless range, and the Z30 is unabashedly vlogger-focused. It's got no viewfinder, just a vari-angle screen, and is capable of shooting uncropped 4K UHD video. Tidy and compact, the Z30 is light enough to carry pretty much anywhere, and we love its chunky, protruding handgrip that makes one-handed shooting a breeze.

The Z cameras are still in relatively early days, especially those with smaller APS-C sensors. This means that there aren't as many lenses widely available to specifically fit these cameras – not nearly as many as there are for the Z30's nearest obvious rival, the Sony ZV-E10, which benefits from the long history of Sony E-mount.

Still, this is a cleverly designed camera with a lot going for it, like in-camera stabilisation for video, and a decent built-in mic with wind-noise reduction. See our hands-on Nikon Z30 review for more details.

The best 6K camera for YouTube

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K product shot

07. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K

Blackmagic has a reputation among filmmakers and camera operators alike as excellent plug-and-film devices. They produce cameras capable of capturing terrific footage as conveniently as possible. The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K has a large Super 35 sensor and can shoot 6K Raw footage at 60fps, making it a great option for producing high-resolution YouTube videos that stand out from the crowd – something that's very important on the world's biggest video sharing platform.

Thanks to the Canon EF mount built into the BPCC 6K, users can expect to use any number of the EF line-up of Canon lenses which expands affordability and flexibility when it comes to choosing glass. Anyone considering YouTube full-time may want to invest in this camera because not only does it pack pro-level features into a portable body while being lighter on the wallet than most cinema cameras as well. When we reviewed the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K, we found this to be a camera that offers great quality and features for a great price.

See our full Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K review for more details.

The best modular camera for YouTube

Photo of the DJI Action 2, one of the best cameras for YouTube

08. DJI Action 2

The DJI Action 2 is an incredibly compact modular action camera with premium styling. It can't beat the video quality or usefulness of its main competitor the GoPro Hero 10 Black (see above) but it's a fantastic choice for YouTubers who value style and compact portability.

When we reviewed it, we were impressed with the blasted metal finish, although it did strike us as more prone to dents than the GoPro. But we were most impressed with the neat magnetic, modular accessories, which can add extra battery life, Micro SD card support and a USB-C port depending on which package you go for. You can add a selfie screen, a macro lens and more. The downside is that when modules are added, the device is no longer waterproof without additional housing. But the biggest limit for YouTubers will be its overheating, which means you can only record the highest quality 4K footage for bursts of up to around 4 minutes.

See our full DJI Action 2 review for more details.

The best old-school DSLR for YouTube

09. Canon EOS 90D

Canon built on the EOS 70D's popularity among YouTubers by producing this latest option, the 90D. Aimed squarely at the video market, it captures detailed uncropped 4K UHD video and can even shoot slow motion 120fps when the resolution is dropped to Full HD. It even captures 32.5MP stills for multimedia video content, should you need it. Canon also revamped the I/O by installing external microphone and headphone connections to help with audio monitoring and recording.

The EOS 90D is chunkier and heavier than other cameras on this list, in keeping with the DSLR heritage. But a big advantage to that is its weather-sealing, meaning you can keep shooting even if it rains or snows. We found it to be satisfying to handle, too, with a large, bright optical viewfinder. At this price, it’s an absolute steal for video producers who don't mind something slightly bulkier.

How to choose the best camera for YouTube

The best camera for YouTube for you will depend on what type of video you're looking to share on your channel. If you want good quality video, then you'll want the ability to record in Full HD (1080p) or even 4K, which YouTube now supports (see below).

You'll also want a camera that can adapt to different lighting settings, and check the camera's video length limit if you're planning to record long videos (see below for more on that).

Image quality isn't the only thing to consider. There's also sound. The best cameras for YouTube also offer excellent sound recording via a built-in microphone with noise-cancelling capabilities – although you may still want to consider mics depending on the type of video you're producing.

You also need to consider portability because some cameras may prove to be too big and heavy if you film on the move. This is why in our selection of the best cameras for YouTube above, we've included some compact options that are convenient for carrying in a bag, as well as cameras that are more suited to using in a studio.

What kind of camera do YouTubers use?

There's no one answer here, as all different types of camera are popular on YouTube. Some YouTubers take a lo-fi approach, and for that, you might need nothing more than one of the best camera phones . However, most YouTubers want something more polished, and a dedicated camera for YouTube can improve the quality of your content, both in terms of video and audio.

Some like compacts such as the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III, while others prefer mirrorless cameras or DSLRs. It's all about figuring out what works best for you – and for producing the content you like. Cameras that can record at higher resolution can record footage that looks more polished, but it's not only about resolution but also dynamic range, while things like eye autofocus and in-body stabilization can be very useful if you're not shooting in a fixed spot.

Do more expensive cameras capture better footage for Youtube?

Not necessarily. Of course, higher end models usually come equipped with higher resolutions, better dynamic range and less image noise. But the best camera for the job is the one that suits your shooting style. A vlogger that loves to edit videos before uploading and requires highly detailed stills photographs of subjects may mean a lean towards dedicated mirrorless cameras.

Do I need 4K video for YouTube?

While you don't need 4K to make a video for YouTube, it certainly does no harm. As video resolution and internet speeds improve we're able to stream higher resolution video, sharing the best quality footage with our audiences. 8K video footage is now seeping through the camera market and 4K is slowly becoming what Full HD was when 4K was introduced not so long ago.

If you spot a camera with 'just HD' video capability we now ask 'why?' - usually because manufacturers are trying to make things smaller, lighter, or cheaper. Even if your end product will be presented in 1080p, 4K still delivers a higher quality downsampled image.

What does video length limit mean?

Video length limits are camera-imposed limits on recording length for video. E.g. a 10 minute video length limits mean that after 10 minutes the camera will stop recording video. You can start recording again after this time, but you won't be able to record any longer footage. If you need to keep recording for as long as possible, in one long take, be sure to look for recording length restrictions when shopping for a new camera for YouTube.

How we chose the best cameras for YouTube

To make this selection of the best cameras for YouTube we compared our own hands-on camera reviews, written by experienced photographers and videographers, along with customer reviews online, feedback from the working creatives who contribute to Creative Bloq and an in-depth comparison of the specifications, features and capabilities of the cameras available on the market.

We have aimed to include a range of different types of cameras in order to make recommendations for different needs and budgets, considering everything from budget cameras to high-end professional options and action cameras that can be used to record footage in more extreme situations.

You might want to see our guide to video editing for beginners if you're unsure of how to put your content together in the best way.

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Jason Parnell-Brookes is an Internationally award-winning photographer, educator and writer. He won Gold in the Nikon Photo Contest 2018/19 and was named Digital Photographer of the Year in 2014. Jason is a qualified teacher, Masters graduate and works with many high profile international clients. For Creative Bloq, he writes about cameras, photography and video and photo editing.

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Best Buy Launches Huge 3-Day Sale on Top Tech and Major Appliances

There are tons of deals on everything from TVs and headphones to refrigerators and dishwashers with thousands in savings to be had.

In the market for a device upgrade or a fresh set of appliances? Best Buy just launched a new weekend-long sale that offers discounts on hundreds of products ranging from the latest tech to kitchen wares. With Apple, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool and many more in the mix, it's an opportunity to score savings on items from big-name brands, too. This event will runs from today, April 26, through Sunday, April 28, so be sure to nab anything you want before prices rise in a few days' time.

We've gone through the sale and have picked out some of the best offers to help out. We're also rounding up the top TV deals from the Best Buy sale . Just keep in mind that April 28 expiry date and finalize your purchases before then.

LG 65-inch C3 Series OLED smart TV: $1,500

It's hard to beat the picture quality of an OLED screen, and when it comes to premium TVs, you can't beat the LG OLED C3 . If you're looking to upgrade your home cinema experience, one of our favorite TVs is discounted in Best Buy's sale across a range of sizes.

Samsung 65-inch QN900C QLED 8K TV: $3,000

Save $1,000.

This QN900C QLED 8K smart TV is one of the brightest TVs ever released by Samsung. It has a peak brightness of 4,000 nits. Samsung also claims this TV has improved image quality, better local dimming, 14-bit processing, AI upscaling, auto HDR remastering and anti-reflective technology.

Major appliances sale

Up to 40% off.

Whether you've recently moved house or you're persevering with some old appliances that are long overdue a replacement, Best Buy's sale has got you covered when it comes to major appliance savings. Everything from refrigerators and microwaves to dishwashers, ranges, cooktops, washers and dryers are discounted by up to 40%.

Ring Stick Up Camera (2-pack): $140

These Ring security cameras are weather proof, which works perfectly for placing them outside. It uses a rechargeable battery that is built into the camera. This camera has 720p live video streaming and motion-sensing capabilities.

Apple iPad Mini (6th gen): $400

This sixth-gen iPad Mini model has 64GB of storage. It also has cellular capabilities, meaning it works with a 5G carrier plan to stay connected wherever you go by using cellular data. It has an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, making it easy to take on the go compared to other models. It has a fast A15 processor, an upgraded USB-C port, Touch ID and a lengthy battery life.

Corsair K70 Pro Mini wireless gaming keyboard: $64

Corsair delivers some pretty high quality gaming keyboards, the K70 Pro Mini is no exception. This keyboard has traditional optical switches offered in linear along with clicky and tactile variants as well. The keyboard works fast, so you don't catch any lagging in your game. It's also decently quiet considering its a mechanical keyboard.

Shark Air Purifier Max 3-in-1: $300

This three-in-one device by Shark features an air purifier, heater, and fan. This way you can everything you need in one place. The purifier covers up to 1,000 square feet, making it great for large spaces. The heater and fan modes are purified as well. It also tracks and adjusts automatically, making this a hands-free experience.

SodaStream Art sparkling water maker: $90

This machine is used to make sparkling water in the comfort of your own home. It comes with the Art sparkling water maker machine, the quick connect 60-liter CO2 Cylinder and a 1-liter dishwasher-safe carbonating bottle. All you need to bring is the water

De'Longhi Dinamica Plus espresso machine: $1,300

This De'Longhi Dinamica Plus is a fully automatic espresso machine with a built-in grinder that can make 16 different, customizable drinks. It connects to an app on your phone that lets you personalize settings to get your preferred brew.

More great deals at Best Buy:

Samsung 43-inch Q60C QLED 4K smart TV: $480 (save $50)
Bissel CrossWave Pet Pro all-in-one multi-surface cleaner: $230 (save $100)
Google Nest Cam with Floodlight: $200 (save $80)
Greenworks 80-volt lawn bundle: $700 (save $400)
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: $270 (save $80)
LG 43-inch UQ75 Series 4K smart TV: $260 (save $20)
Ninja Foodi 8-in-1 digital air fry oven: $150 (save $70)
LG smart refrigerator with Mirror InstaView: $2,800 (save $800, plus get a $300 Best Buy gift card)
Frigidaire Gallery 30-inch electric cooktop: $900 (save $1,100)
LG DLEX4000W stackable smart electric dryer: $800 (save $300)
Whirlpool over-the-range microwave: $200 (save $160)
Toshiba 75-inch C350 Series 4K smart TV: $500 (save $150)
GE three-rack dishwasher: $480 (save $270)
Google Pixel 8 Pro: $799 (save $200)
Bose QuietComfort earbuds: $189 (save $90)

Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 countertop indoor grill: $170 (save $110)

Some of the items listed may have additional discounts available for My Best Buy Plus or Total members , so if you've been considering signing up, now might be a great time to do so. While those subscriptions are paid accounts, the money you make back in exclusive savings during this event or throughout the year can be worth it, especially if you shop at Best Buy regularly. There are some other perks too, such as free two-day shipping with no minimum amount and extended return windows.

For more device savings, we've rounded up the best phone deals , laptop deals and TV deals to help you keep more money in your pocket.

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Eken Fixes Security Issues in Video Doorbell Cameras after Consumer Reports Investigation

Eken video doorbell cameras were sold by amazon, walmart, and other online retailers despite having serious security vulnerabilities.

WASHINGTON, DC – Consumer Reports recently uncovered security vulnerabilities in doorbells manufactured by Eken Group and sold by online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, Sears, Shein, and Temu.

Following the investigation, Eken Group met with CR test engineers to learn about the issues we found and released a new firmware update to fix them. The security issues could have allowed a hacker, stalker, or other bad actor to gain control of the doorbell and view images from the doorbell camera remotely. The vulnerabilities also leaked home IP addresses and WiFi network names. The new firmware will resolve the vulnerabilities CR testers found .

In addition to the security issues, these doorbells also lacked proper Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ID labels on their packaging and/or plastic casings, which made them illegal to sell in the U.S. Eken confirmed to CR that all of its products had undergone FCC testing and certification, as CR’s initial reporting indicated, and the doorbells were just missing the labels.

To be in full compliance with FCC regulations, Eken added the FCC IDs to the electronic manuals for the doorbells, which can be accessed from the Aiwit app.

As a result of CR’s initial report, FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks sent letters to the five retailers we found selling these doorbells—Amazon, Walmart, Sears, Shein, and Temu—asking them why they were selling insecure, non-compliant devices and what policies they have in place to address such issues. His letters asked the companies to respond by March 22, 2024, but it’s unclear if any of the companies did so.

Justin Brookman, director of technology policy at Consumer Reports said, “Unfortunately, the Internet of Things is rife with bad data security practices. Even when there are rules mandating certain security practices, there’s not enough awareness or enforcement to change practices industry-wide. On top of that, major e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Walmart need to do a better job of vetting sellers and products sold on their platforms, so consumers are not put at risk. It’s become clear that we need new rules to hold online retailers accountable.”

Due to security vulnerabilities uncovered in CR’s investigation, the Eken Smart Video Doorbell and Tuck Sharkpop Doorbell Camera were labeled as “Don’t Buy: Safety Risk” in CR’s video doorbell ratings . Now that the issues have been resolved, CR is removing those labels from the products and releasing their full test results.

Consumers using a video doorbell made by Eken, Tuck, Fishbot, or any of the other brands that use the same hardware and Aiwit smartphone app, should confirm that your doorbell is running the latest firmware version as soon as possible.

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About Consumer Reports

Founded in 1936, CR has a mission to create a fair and just marketplace for all. Widely known for our rigorous research and testing of products and services, we also survey millions of consumers each year, report extensively on marketplace issues, and advocate for consumer rights and protections around safety as well as digital rights, financial fairness, and sustainability. CR is independent and nonprofit.

© 2024 Consumer Reports. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent, nonprofit organization whose mission is to work side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports® magazine, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our prior written permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent unauthorized commercial use of its content and trademarks.

5 Best Outdoor Security Cameras, Tested & Reviewed

Keep an eye on your backyard, 24/7.

a outdoor home security smart home technology camera looking directly into camera with recording light on

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall Outdoor Security Camera

Ring spotlight cam pro.

Best Value Outdoor Security Camera

Wyze cam v3.

Best Outdoor Video Doorbell Camera

Google nest doorbell (battery).

Best Solar Powered Outdoor Security Camera

Eufy s230 solocam (solocam s40).

Best Indoor Outdoor Security Camera

Arlo pro 4 wireless security camera.

Not only are outdoor security cameras handy for the video footage they record, which you can access directly on your smartphone, but they're relatively easy to set up and oftentimes battery-powered so you don't have to fuss with cables or outlets. And thanks to durable, weather-resistant design, you can leave them outside year-round.

The test engineers and tech experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test all types of home security devices throughout the year, from video doorbells to pet cameras , smart locks , smart garage door openers and more. To narrow down the best outdoor security cameras, we relied on data collected from tests of more than 25 home security cameras in the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab as well as firsthand tester feedback on factors like ease of use, accuracy of alerts and much more.

Once you've checked out our top picks below, continue reading for more shopping tips on how to find the best outdoor security camera for you.

A top-performing home security brand in our Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab tests, you can count on this outdoor camera from Ring to spot any animals, intruders or visitors outside your home thanks to clear 1080p resolution and color night vision. Unlike indoor security cameras, this one features two LED spotlights to help light up dark walkways or corners and can handle temperatures well below freezing.

On top of simple setup and an easy-to-use battery-powered design (that’s right, no need for messy cables!), we love the Spotlight Cam Pro’s “Bird’s Eye View,” a feature that provides an aerial view of your home and surrounding areas. Reliable and responsive motion detection is another bonus, but keep in mind that a Ring Protect Subscription for $4.99 per month is required for access to video history.

This no-frills camera from Wyze works just as well indoors as it does outdoors and at a fraction of the price of more premium models . While its main downside is that you have to keep it plugged in and an outdoor power adapter is required for outdoor use, our pros love that it comes with many of the features you need in a quality surveillance device — color night vision, 1080p resolution and an IP65 rating that means it’s been tested to withstand most weather conditions like rain. Wyze also offers one of the more affordable subscriptions around at only $2.99 per month, or you can go subscription-free with the purchase of a Wyze microSD card .

Don't be fooled by this doorbell's sleek, minimalist design. A top performer in our video doorbell tests, the Nest keeps track of any visitors, deliveries or more to your doorstep . It impressed our pros with crisp night vision, a wide field of view and excellent motion detection with timely and accurate alerts. Plus, the Google Home app makes it easy to navigate to your video footage and review any event history. But for more than three hours of video history, you’ll need to subscribe to Google’s Nest Aware plan for a minimum of $8 per month.

If you do spring for the subscription plan, it will cover any Google Nest cameras in or around your home. In that case, another one to consider is the Nest Cam with Floodlight , which not only notifies you when it detects possible trespassers, but also shines a pair of bright LED lights on the area, so you can monitor the situation from anywhere.

If top-notch resolution is a priority to you, look no further than this camera from Eufy that records crisp 2K footage. It also features one of the highest IP ratings on this list at IP67, meaning it should be among the most durable. In recent Lab tests, our pros were not only impressed by the camera’s video quality but also appreciated the built-in 600 Lumens spotlight that wil shine a light on any visitors approaching your home.

Even better is the fact that it’s solar powered so all it requires is around two hours of sunlight per day for continuous power (though you can rely on the battery if needed). Finally, no subscriptions are required since the camera stores up to 8GB of footage locally, which should amount to about two months worth of video history.

Though the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have recommended this compact security camera from Arlo for indoor use thanks to its exceptional performance in Lab tests, it's just as suitable for keeping an eye on outdoor spaces. According to testers, installation is a breeze, resolution is clear and a spotlight is integrated . There’s even a built-in siren you can activate from the app should someone be trespassing (or your dog is trying to escape). For the best features, including recording in 2K resolution, you’ll need a $7.99 per month Arlo Secure subscription, but we think that’s a price worth paying for Arlo’s reliable performance both indoors and out.

How we test outdoor security cameras

The engineers and experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab test all types of surveillance electronics and smart home devices . To find the best security cameras on the market, we evaluated more than 25 models in our most recent tests, evaluating each one for video and audio performance, ease of installation and operation, app intuitiveness, motion detection, night vision and IP ratings or weather-resistance claims.

We also considered extra features such as smart home compatibility, video storage, subscription plan options and alert sensitivity. In addition to in-Lab evaluations, we sent security cameras home with our consumer testers to share firsthand feedback on factors such as ease of setup, how well they work in day-to-day life (including low light settings), battery life and more.

What to look for when shopping for an outdoor security camera

✔️ Power source: Battery-powered outdoor cameras are preferred by our experts since they don't require any cables or outlets, but you can certainly opt for one that is wired and needs to be plugged in. If you do choose a wired outdoor security camera, make sure to purchase a power adapter that is weather-resistant. Our pros also suggest considering a solar-powered camera, which doesn't require as much charging since it sources power directly from the sun.

✔️ Durability: Because you'll be leaving your security camera outdoors throughout the year, you should look for one that's durable. Check for any weather resistance claims and look for IP (ingress protection) ratings, which indicate to what degree the device can handle water exposure or submersion in addition to contact with other elements like dirt, sand, etc. The first number refers to solids while the second number refers to liquids; as a rule of thumb, the higher the number, the more protection you can expect. While you don't need a waterproof outdoor security camera, our pros do advise one that can handle a bit of rain or snow — ideally IP54 or higher.

✔️ Resolution: Having crisp, clear resolution is especially important in an outdoor security camera since there are so many lighting conditions at play and objects at a distance. The higher the resolution, the better you'll be able to see your surroundings and potentially identify who is approaching your home. Our pros suggest finding a camera with at least 1080p resolution, but for the best of the best consider 2K.

✔️ Night vision: Most security cameras today feature night vision, which means that they'll be able to capture footage when there's little to no light outdoors. For the best performance, consider a camera with color night vision.

✔️ Storage: Keep in mind that most security cameras require a subscription plan for access to video storage that's saved in a cloud, though you'll typically be able to view live video feeds for free. Make sure to consider the extra cost of a subscription before making a purchase, or consider a camera that offers free local storage onto the device via a microSD card.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

The Good Housekeeping Home Improvement Lab provides expert reviews and advice on all things home-related, from setting up home security systems to installing smart plugs .

GH Institute writer and product analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from consumer electronics to home, fitness, travel and more and frequently collaborates with the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab. She's tested several types of security cameras since joining GH in 2021.

To write this review, she worked with the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab, Dan DiClerico , who brings more than 20 years of experience to the GH Institute, having reviewed thousands of products for Good Housekeeping, as well as brands like This Old House and Consumer Reports. During his time at the Institute, he has evaluated all types of security cameras and home security systems.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute . A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.

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Our Expert Guide to the BEST Travel Cameras in 2024

Our Recommendation

GoPro HERO12 Black – The Best Action Camera

Canon Powershot SX740HS – The Best Affordable Camera

Sony RX100 vii – The Best Compact Camera for Travel

Canon G7X Mark iii – Best Camera for Vlogging

Sony A6600 – Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel

Best Wide Angle Lens

Best Portrait Lens

Best Zoom Lens

Sony A7iv – Best Professional Camera for Travel Photography

Best All-Round Lens

Best Prime Lens

DJI Mavic Air 2 – The Best Drone for Travel

GoPro Max – Best 360 Travel Camera

How to Choose the Best Camera for Travel

What Features to Look for in a Travel Camera

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Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D Digital Camera

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Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera

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Fujifilm X100V – $1,399 / £1,339

Panasonic LX100 II – $849 / £859

Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 – $697 / £679

Sony RX100 VII – $1,298 / £1,049

Sony RX10 IV – $1,698 / £1,499

Nikon D5600 + 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens – $969 / £749

Fujifilm X-S10 + 16-80mm f/4 lens – $1698 / £1,399

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III + 14-150mm lens – $1,498 / £1,299

Nikon Z 5 + 24-200mm f/4-6.3 lens – $2,193 / £2,029