Top 10 Best Camera for Video: Mirrorless, DSLR or Compact 2021 Reviews

Top 10 Best Camera for Video: Mirrorless, DSLR or Compact 2021 Reviews

Making videos and working on still images is becoming an increasingly frequent need for professional photographers and an ever-growing passion for amateurs. The reasons for the importance of videos are many. A negative response to this request can even make us lose a customer or fall behind the competition.

Other reasons concern the uses of a reflex for video for the marketing needs of our business. Shooting videos is one of the most successful techniques for gaining visibility on the web. So, the best camera for video is crucial.

Top 10 Best Camera for Video 2021 Reviews

#1 Best Mirrorless Camera for Video: Nikon Z6 Mirrorless Camera

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This full-frame mirrorless can be packed full of useful features for both 4K and Full HD video shooters. Basic technical specifications include a 24MP full-frame sensor and EXPEED 6 processor, Nikon Z lens mount, 273 phase-detection AF points, 3.6m-dot electronic viewfinder. The video formats are available in high resolution.

The maximum recording time is 29 minutes and 59 seconds. The maximum bit-rate is 144 Mbps, internal recording takes place at 8-Bit. If you use an external recorder, you will have access to 10-bit and also to N-Log mode.

The camera comes with a slot for XQD-type memory cards, the EVF electronic viewfinder is of excellent quality and shows a faithful preview of the quality of the movie. The AF system is reliable and has a good density of dots for tracking subjects and movement.

Pros

  • Premium components
  • High resolution
  • Long recording time
  • High compatibility for cards and software

Cons

  • Hard to use for novice

Overall, the Nikon Z6 Mirrorless Camera comes with a high ISO. The camera performs exceptionally well with digital noise noticeable above ISO 25600, thanks to the high-quality full-frame sensor and its light retention properties.

#2 Best DSLR Camera for Video: Canon EOS-1DX Mark II DSLR Camera

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For a 4K camera with a full-frame sensor that can also record in slow motion, there are few models available at the moment. And one of these is the Canon EOS-1DX Mark II. It comes with the possibility of filming at the maximum resolution of 60 frames per second with an acceptable crop factor of 1.4x.

It can record in Full HD 1080p up to 120 fps for even more pronounced slow-motion effects. For users who use autofocus, Canon’s Dual Pixel AF is one of the best systems in the world with smooth and natural focal range transitions. It has fast subject and recognition speed.

The video quality is top of the range, with exceptional colors and the possibility of using all Canon EF lenses. Canon colors are spectacular right out of the camera. The skin tones are natural. With a little post-production, you can get cinema-like quality videos to create top-notch YouTube videos and multimedia. It is the best camera for YouTube with no doubt.

Pros

  • Full frame sensor
  • Maximum resolution
  • Natural focal range transitions
  • Fast scene recognition speed

Cons

  • Comes with a camera body only

The best Canon home video SLR is the 1DX Mark II. It comes with capabilities and features that outclass all other models in image quality, AF performance, and level of detail.

#3 Best Compact Camera for Video: Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Black Camera

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If you are looking for a micro four-thirds mirrorless camera for 4k video, the alternative version of the OM-D E-M1 is the one we highly recommend. With this camera, you have excellent image stabilization even for video shooting.

It also comes with excellent image quality for this type of sensor. The camera body is tropicalized and offers a fair number of manual controls to simplify operations. So, you can avoid having to navigate the menu during shooting. The dimensions are compact to carry the car around, even during a trip without weighing much.

The hybrid AF system has 121 phase and contrast-detection points. It is reliable and can follow the subject even when the movement is erratic.

Pros

  • High resolution and performance
  • Extra-high durability
  • Premium image finish
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons

  • Expensive

We like the ability to insert two SD cards inside the machine. So, you can choose which slot to select for photos and videos.

#4 Best Nikon Camera for Vlogging: Nikon D780 Camera

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This entry-level full-frame is Nikon’s best for 4k video that allows you to capture excellent quality movies. Compared to the previous version, the video department receives a substantial number of upgrades. With the D780, we can shoot 4k, 24p, 25p, and 30p movies, and Full HD up to 120 fps.

The AF system has been improved and is now phase detection. It comes with greater accuracy and speed in tracking and tracking the subject.

There is no eye detection, but the face detection function works well. The menu offers 12 memory slots for fast video functions that are convenient for changing parameters quickly during a session.

Pros

  • Excellent quality movies
  • A good deal of resolution options
  • High accuracy and speed in tracking
  • Fac detection

Cons

  • No eye detection

 The Nikon D780 is a photo and video camera with very interesting features. We recommend it to anyone looking for the best camera for vlogging.

#5 Best Canon Camera for YouTube: Canon EOS 80D Digital SLR Camera

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The qualities of this camera are many. It is suitable for people looking for a good reflex for YouTube videos and vlogs, as it offers a robust, weatherproof camera body. It comes with audio input and output and a touch screen display that can be oriented in all positions.

Besides being an excellent reflex for semi-professional photography and passionate photographers, the Canon EOS 80D offers high-level video potential with image quality that can be used for YouTube videos of a certain caliber. The camera is perfect with an autofocus system as it offers one of the best AF systems currently available.

The Dual Pixel AF Canon can recognize the scene and subjects efficiently. You simply have to touch the screen to select the portion of the image you want to focus on. It is also possible to get effects of passing focus from one field to another with a soft and natural result.

Pros

  • Excellent construction
  • Robust and weatherproof
  • Premium image quality
  • Best AF systems

Cons

  • Low capturing speed

The Canon EOS 80D is an affordable video DSLR with an APS-C sensor and Full HD recording capabilities of up to 60 fps.

#6 Best Sony Camera for Video: Sony Alpha A7IIK Camera

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Sony remains in the top-of-the-range category in the sector of the best camera for video. And for people looking for a full-frame, we offer the fabulous Sony A7 III. It is the best value for money in this ranking.

Its video qualities are on par with its photographic capabilities. So, if you buy this camera, you will have got a great deal for both sectors. The A7IIK is one of the most competitive products on the market in the hybrid camera sector. It offers incredible versatility at an affordable price.

In 4K mode, you can record video at 30p, 25p, 24p at 100 Mbps, or 60 Mbps. In Full HD 1080p, you will have access to frame rates up to 120 fps also at 100 Mbps or 60 Mbps. 4K recording takes place on the entire portion of the 24MP full-frame sensor, the quality that guarantees greater light response for excellent results in low light conditions.

Pros

  • Quality videos and photos
  • High versatility
  • High resolution
  • IBIS sensor stabilization technology

Cons

  • High power consumption

Thanks to the IBIS sensor stabilization technology, the A7III can also be used for handheld recording.

#7 Best Phone Camera for Video: Sony Alpha A6600 Mirrorless Camera

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The Alpha 6600 is Sony’s most advanced APS-C mirrorless. It is excellent for producing video thanks to the generous offer of technical features specifically designed for video makers.

Compared to the previous version, the A6500, we find a significantly larger battery and the ability to connect headphones to monitor audio. The 5-axis internal stabilizer remains. The quality of the 4k shot is exceptional. The camera over samples sublimely and gives a wealth of details and a very well-defined image.

If we examine the 1080p video image scrupulously, we say that the A6600 suffers a little from a lack of detail, while the 4k is great. It is why we recommend it to those who will use it, especially for Ultra HD video productions.

Pros

  • Excellent for video production
  • Many advanced features
  • Larger battery capacity
  • 5-axis internal stabilizer

Cons

  • Expensive

This video camera is perfect for experienced users. There are slog modes that allow you to shoot videos in a flat profile to have a more malleable image in the post during color grading and color correction.

#8 Best 4k Camera for Video: Fujifilm X-T30 Digital Camera

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Among the video cameras that we recommend to independent video makers, the X-T30 is one of the best for quality and price. It mounts the same APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor as the X-T3. In a compact and manageable body, it is ideal for the video maker who makes a lot of movies on the go.

This small APSC mirrorless can record DCI 4K (4,096 x 2,160) and 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) footage up to 30 fps, and Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) up to 60 fps. The recording mode goes up to 200 Mbps with 8-Bit sampling. We can connect an external recorder to a record in 10-bit. For 4K movies, the limitation is 10 consecutive minutes, while for Full HD 15 minutes.

Pros

  • Ideal for 4K filming
  • Large capacity
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons

  • Low timing record

The extreme quality of this APS-C sensor makes it possible to get the same image quality as its big sister X-T3. It comes with excellent noise response, even at high ISO, and incredible image sharpness.

#9 Best Low Light Camera for Video: Sony A7S II Camera

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Do not be frightened by the 12MP of the Sony sensor. Maintaining the resolution of the previous model is a deliberate choice and has important advantages on performance in low light conditions or on ISO performance. As we have already understood, the A7S II is a mirrorless dedicated to people who frequently shoot or record in environments with little available light (evening events, night, closed environments, etc.).

The A7S II guarantees ISO performance at the top of the category and is comparable only to a few camera bodies. It offers images and videos that can also be used for reproduction on large screens or prints up to an ISO of 51000. Some reviews have even reported excellent results at ISO 100000.

Pros

  • Perfect for low light condition
  • High performance
  • ISO performance
  • Large screen

Cons

  • Comparable to only a few bodies

The Sony A7S II also has many additional software features, including automatic HDR. We can get an even wider dynamic range with which to work in post-production.

#10 Best Budget Camera for Video: Panasonic LUMIX G7 4K Digital Camera

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At an even cheaper price and features suitable for beginners and video-making enthusiasts, here is a Panasonic camera to consider for small home video productions. Like all other Panasonic G series cameras, the G7 offers a micro four-thirds sensor.

The resolution is 16MP. There are a good quality EVF and a fully articulated LCD screen. The most important difference, for video makers, between the G7 and the G80 is the absence of internal stabilization. We recommend testing the purchase of stabilized optics to remedy the problem or to use stabilize or tripod for movie recording.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact
  • The cheapest price
  • Quality EVF and LCD screen
  • High resolution

Cons

  • No advanced functions

In Full HD resolution, the G7 model is possible to record with a frame rate up to 60 fps 28Mbps to produce movies also in slow motion.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Camera for Video

Types of cameras

To date, there are mainly four categories of digital cameras: compact, SLR, bridge, and mirrorless. Each of them stands out from the others for the quality of the image offered, price, size, and the possible presence of manual controls.

Image Quality

For some years, we have been witnessing the spread of 4K technology that is becoming increasingly popular. It is a trend that increased in 2018/2019 and future years.

Lenses: Fixed vs Interchangeable

Reflex cameras have interchangeable lenses. To shoot good movies, it is essential to equip yourself with a quality lens park. The brighter the lens, the better the result, especially in low light. The value that expresses the brightness of the lens is the aperture of the diaphragm.

Cine Lenses

The lenses are the optical part of the camera, comprising a system of lenses that convey the light coming from the framed subject into the darkroom. The plane on which it forms the image is the focal plane, the film, and the distance between the lens and the focal plane is the focal length.

Zoom

The number of MegaPixels also refers to the mere count of the number of pixels of the image. But it shows nothing. We must also test the sensors according to the color rendering, the noise produced at high ISO, and the underlying technology, such as Micro 4/3 and CMOS.

Autofocus

It is also important to consider the number of AF points available and the percentage of the frame they occupy. Mirrorless cameras, for example, allow greater coverage of the frame with the focus points, thus giving the possibility to focus even in areas peripherals of our frame.

Camera Sensor

The larger a camera sensor, the better its image quality will be. The most popular formats are Full-frame, APS-C, and Four Thirds. The sensor is a fundamental element for the success of photos and videos. It weighs a lot on the price of a device. A full-frame SLR is on average more expensive than one with an APS-C sensor but has superior image quality.

Live View

While the digital stabilizer works directly on the images taken, reducing vibrations and quality, it links the optical stabilizer to the lens and reduces vibrations already in the shooting live.

Memory

For professional use, it is useful to have the possibility of inserting two memory cards to record videos or images on two different media.

Final Words

Whether your passion or your job is making videos for YouTube, social media, or web distribution, the market offers countless choices with so many options. Given that the choice of the best camera for video is linked to your needs, we hope you know which choice will be the best for your career.

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