Top 10 Best Budget Vlogging Cameras
When you are looking for the best budget vlogging camera, we’re here to help you!
People always ask us about the travel photography gear, and that includes the cameras we use for vlogging.
The cameras in our list below are designed with video content creation in mind.
They come with capable image sensors, fast processors, better autofocus, great audio capability, a flip-screen for selfie-mode shooting, and the ability to shoot smooth 4K video among other features!
Yet, even with such pro-grade imaging capabilities, some of these cameras are beginner-friendly and affordable to suit the needs of entry-level vloggers.
In this guide, we feature the best budget vlogging cameras out there with easy-to-use controls and auto modes since they are designed to work in the hands of beginners.
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Cameras, Tripods and Accessories for Vlogging
Before we get to the 10 best budget cameras for vlogging, check out this list of other vlogging camera we recommend:
- Vlogging Cameras for Beginners
- Cheap Vlogging Cameras
- Best Vlogging Cameras
- Cameras for YouTube
- Best Lightweight Travel Tripods
- Gift Guide for Vloggers
Best Budget Cameras for Vlogging at a Glance
| Camera | Type | Max Video Resolution | LCD Screen | Connectivity | Recording Limit | Price |
| Sony ZV-1 | Compact | 4K, 30fps | 3.0” Flip-Out Touchscreen | 3.5mm Mic, HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, WiFi | Unlimited | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| Canon M50 Mark II | Mirrorless | 4K, 24fps | 3.0” Flip-Out Touchscreen | 3.5mm Mic, HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, WiFi with NFC | 29 minutes, 59 secons | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| Sony ZV E10 | Mirrorless | 4K, 30fps | 3.0” Flip-Out Touchscreen | 3.5mm Mic, 3.5mm Headphone, WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB | Unlimited | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 | Mirrorless | 4K, 30fps | 3.0” Flip Touchscreen | WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB | 10 minutes in 4K, 30 minutes in 1080p | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| Canon G7 X Mark II | Compact | 1080p, 60fps | 3.0” Flip-Up Touchscreen | WiFi with NFC, HDMI | 29 minutes, 59 seconds | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| Sony Alpha a6000 | Mirrorless | 1080p, 60fps | 3.0” Flip-Up Touchscreen | WiFi, NFC, Bluetooth, micro-HDMI, micro-USB | 29 minutes, 59 seconds | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| Canon EOS Rebel T7 | DSLR | 1080p, 30fps | 3.0” Fixed LCD | WiFi with NFC, HDMI, USB | 29 minutes, 59 seconds | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 | Bridge | 4K, 30fps | 3.0” Free-Angle Touchscreen | WiFi, HDMI, USB | 29 minutes, 59 seconds | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| Canon VIXIA HF R800 | Camcorder | 1080p, 60fps | 3.0” Flip-Out Touchscreen | HDMI, USB | Up to 2 hours in 1080p at 35 Mb/s | AMAZON | B&H PHOTO |
| AKASO EK7000 | Action | 4K, 25fps | 2.0” Fixed LCD | WiFi, HDMI | Up to 90 minutes in 4K, 25 fps | AMAZON |
Top 10 Best Budget Vlogging Cameras
Here’s our list of the best budget cameras for vlogging with a list of features, pros, cons, and our thoughts about each one.
#1 – Overall Best Budget Vlogging Camera
Sony ZV-1 Key Specs:
- Type: Compact
- Sensor: 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS Sensor
- Screen: 3.0″ Flip-Out Touchscreen LCD
- Image Stabilization: Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization
- Zoom: 24-70mm Equivalent Range
- Video: UHD 4K up to 30fps, 1080p up to 120fps
- Record Limit: Unlimited
- Connectivity: 3.5mm Mic, HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, and WiFi
- Battery Life: 260 Shots
- Weight: 294 g (Body with Battery and Memory)
The ZV-1 is the first Sony camera that is built just for vloggers. It features a video-friendly design that includes a best-in-class 3-capsule internal microphone and a flip-out 3.0″ touchscreen for walk-and-talk recording. It will also do a great job when taking selfie photos for your Instagram and blogs!
To complement its video capabilities, Sony ZV-1 features a compact, sleek body and weighs only 294 grams with battery and memory. It also includes a small handgrip, but for the best experience when shooting vlogs in selfie-mode, we recommend getting the Sony GP-VPT2BT wireless shooting grip.
Among its interesting features is the Product Showcase Mode, which is a new autofocus setting that is specially built for YouTubers who review products. When turned on, it provides for a quick and smooth focus transition between your face and the object you’ve placed in front of the lens.
The main downside is this camera is battery life. It uses the slim NP-BX1 battery that delivers about 260 shots or 45 minutes of video recording per charge. But this shouldn’t be a problem since you can carry a spare or invest in a good power bank.
Pros:
- A sleek, pocketable design.
- Bright, sharp 24-70mm zoom lens.
- Active SteadyShot image stabilization that delivers steady footage.
- A large REC button for quick recognition.
- Class-leading autofocus.
- Impressive in-camera audio.
- 3.5mm external microphone and flash support.
Cons:
- Touch controls are limited.
- A USB-C would be welcome.
A year ago we said the Canon G7 X Mark II was the best budget vlogging camera. But that is in the past! The Sony ZV-1 really nails it at what most people want from a pocketable vlogging camera. It meets the performance, ergonomics, and anesthetic needs.
To get the most out of this camera, you can pack a spare battery or get a power bank, plus the handheld shooting grip which doubles as a tabletop tripod.
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#2 – Best Budget Mirrorless Camera for Vlogging
Like the Sony ZV-1the Canon M50 Mark II caters to the needs of vloggers and video content creators. It’s such a versatile, well-rounded camera that records impressively sharp 4K video at 24fps and 1080p at 60fps. And you can also shoot 720p at 120fps, which is great for slow-motion capture!
Canon M50 Mark II Key Specs:
- Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
- Screen: 3.0″ Flip-Out Touchscreen LCD
- Image Stabilization: 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- Zoom: Depends on the Lens in Use
- Video: UHD 4K at 24fps, Full HD 1080p at 60fps, and HD 720p at 120fps
- Record Limit: 29 Minutes, 59 Seconds
- Connectivity: 3.5mm Mic, HDMI, USB, Bluetooth, WiFi with NFC
- Battery Life: 305 Shots
- Weight: 387 g (Body with Battery and Memory, But Without the Lens)
The Canon M50 Mark II features a capable 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor that pairs with an impressively fast DIGIC 8 image processor. This combination allows it to record sharp 4K/30fps video and afford quick 10fps stills shooting at a burst.
The main drawback of its video recording capabilities is the huge 1.56x crop on the 4K video. And even worse, the crop increases to a massive 1.75x when you turn on the image stabilization. So, if shooting in 4K is one of your priorities, we recommend getting the Sony ZV-1 instead!
But the M50 Mark II still remains a stellar option for those who are okay with shooting 1080p video. The Sensor-based Dual Pixel CMOS AF allows it to keep up with fast-moving subjects when recording 1080p videos. This feature makes it an excellent choice for a walk-and-talk vlogging camera.
Pros:
- Affordable, lightweight, compact, and beginner-friendly.
- Excellent Dual Pixel AF.
- The flip-touchscreen is super-convenient for selfie-mode vlogging.
- Vertical video recording.
- Bright, sharp EVF.
Cons:
- The 4K video is heavily cropped.
- Sub-par battery life!
The Canon M50 Mark II will appeal to entry-level vloggers who want a compact and lightweight vlogging camera but with the ability to use interchangeable lenses. It is super-easy to use and shoots impressively clear 1080p video. The speedy autofocus makes it a perfect choice for your on-the-go, walk-and-talk vlogging sessions!
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#3 – Best Budget Vlogging Camera Under $1000
Just like the ZV-1, the ZV E10 is yet another camera that Sony has built with dedicated features for vlogging, YouTube, and video content creation. But unlike the ZV-1, the Sony ZV E10 is a mirrorless camera that allows you to use interchangeable lenses.
Sony ZV E10 Key Specs:
- Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS Sensor
- Screen: 3.0″ Side Flip-Out Touchscreen LCD
- Image Stabilization: Digital (Video Only)
- Zoom: Depends on the Lens in Use
- Video: UHD 4K30p and Full HD 120p Video
- Record Limit: Unlimited for UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 29.97p
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, 3.5mm Mic, 3.5mm Headphone, USB Type-C (USB 3.1), HDMI D (Micro)
- Battery Life: 440 Shots
- Weight: 343 g (Body with Battery and Memory)
The Sony ZV E10 has an upper hand over the Canon M50 Mark II due to its versatility and more refined features. It shoots 4K up to 30fps and Full HD 1080p at up to 120fps. And the 4K isn’t cropped, how wonderful!
So, how did Sony manage to make it relatively affordable? Well, for starters, it’s based on the hardware of the Sony A6100 which is relatively old. It also features the same 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor that Sony used on the A6000-series cameras.
But the old hardware and sensor don’t mean it does a subpar job. In fact, the ZV E10 shoots impressively smooth videos and stills. And the sensor is large enough to warrant better low-light performance.
With the ZV E10, Sony focused more on video recording features to appeal to beginner vloggers. You get a large flip-out touchscreen, both 3.5mm mic and headphone ports, and the ability to live stream directly from the camera.
Pros:
- Compact, lightweight, and relatively affordable!
- The Product Showcase mode is super handy during product review and demonstration vlogs.
- Best autofocus in its class.
- Face-Priority AE that detects the subject’s face and adjusts the exposure for ideal brightness.
- Soft Skin Effect that smoothens and softens blemishes and wrinkles on the subject’s face.
- Active SteadyShot to benefit handheld video recording.
- Built-in video streaming support for YouTube and Facebook.
Cons:
- Lacks a viewfinder.
- The flip-out screen blocks the USB charging port and HDMI input which can be a pain when you want to use it for streaming while charging.
Like ZV-1, the Sony ZV E10 doesn’t have a video recording limit. A feature that makes it a wonderful option for vloggers who want to shoot really long videos. It’s relatively affordable, compact, lightweight, easy to use, and shoots sharp 4K video. These features earn it a place among the best budget vlogging cameras in the market today!
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#4 – Best Budget Vlogging Camera Kit
The Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 is yet another camera that’s specifically built for vlogging and YouTube. It’s actually quite a capable camera with a rich feature-set that can rival the Sony ZV-1, the ZV E10, and even the Canon M50 Mark II. But its main limitation is the video recording limit which is just 10 minutes when shooting in 4K/30fps.
Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 Key Specs:
- Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: 20.3MP Digital Live MOS Sensor
- Screen: 3.0″ 1.84m-Dot Free-Angle Touchscreen
- Image Stabilization: 5-axis Hybrid I.S.
- Zoom: Depends on the Lens in Use
- Video: UHD 4K30p Video
- Record Limit: 10 minutes in 4K, 30 minutes in 1080p
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, USB Micro-B (USB 2.0), HDMI D (Micro)
- Battery Life: 270 Shots
- Weight: 352 g (Body with Battery and Memory)
The Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 features a larger 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and comes as a bundled kit with a 12-32mm lens. This pairing allows it to shoot impressively sharp 4K video at up to 30 fps.
The camera and lens combination is stunningly compact and lightweight. In fact, you can easily mistake it for a compact, point-and-shoot camera. The design makes it very portable and pocketable to fit in your pocket or a small purse.
Our favorite feature is the OZO Audio by Nokia. It uses three built-in microphones for improved and accurate audio recording. It will pick the audio from wherever it’s coming from including the sides, the back, and even in noisy surroundings.
Pros:
- Arguably the world’s smallest camera with a flip-touchscreen.
- A complete, affordable vlogging camera kit with beginner-friendly controls.
- Tons of video-focused features.
- Shoots vibrant, detailed videos even in low-light.
- The battery lasts for about 45 minutes per charge when shooting video, which is quite decent.
Cons:
- The 4K video is cropped.
- 4K video recording is limited to 10 minutes.
The Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 has a larger sensor than the Sony ZV-1 which allows it to shoot impressive sharp and vivid footage even in low-light. It comes as a vlogging-ready kit with a 12-32mm lens that offers a 24-64mm-equivalent focal length range. If you don’t mind the 10 minutes video recording limits in 4K, then it makes an attractive budget vlogging camera!
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#5 Best Budget Camera for Beauty Vlogging
For over three years, the Canon G7 X Mark II has been one of the vloggers’ favorite cameras. It combines excellent video recording capabilities and performance with a compact and pocketable design. And at its relatively affordable price, this makes a perfect budget vlogging camera for beauty and makeup vloggers.
Canon G7X Mark II Key Specs:
- Type: Compact, Point-and-Shoot
- Sensor: 20.1MP 1″ CMOS Sensor
- Screen: 3.0″ Flip-Up Touchscreen LCD
- Image Stabilization: Intelligent IS Image Stabilization
- Zoom: 24-100mm Equivalent Range
- Video: 1080p up to 60fps
- Record Limit: 29 Minutes, 59 Seconds
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi with NFC, HDMI, USB
- Battery Life: 265 Shots
- Weight: 320 g (Body with Battery and Memory)
The Canon G7 X Mark II packs all the essential vlogging features that you get with the newer GX7 Mark III. However, the Mark II doesn’t shoot in 4K and also lacks an external microphone input port.
So, why do we recommend it to makeup and beauty vloggers? Well, most of your followers and YouTube traffic will view the content from their phones. In most cases, in 720p and 1080p. Therefore, you don’t really need 4K!
Furthermore, the Canon G7X Mark II is arguably the most used camera for lifestyle, beauty, and makeup vlogging. Some popular YouTubers and vloggers still use it, but others have upgraded to the Mark III and the Sony ZV-1.
The audio quality of the G7X Mark II is good when shooting your vlogs indoors. But that can’t be said when vlogging in the windy or noisy outdoors. But as a beauty vlogger, you will mostly use the camera indoors, so this isn’t a big issue!
Pros:
- Affordable, compact, and lightweight.
- An ergonomic design with a comfortable grip.
- The flip-up screen is perfect for vlogging.
- It also captures amazing shots, which could be useful for your Instagram and Facebook.
Cons:
- Doesn’t shoot in 4K.
- Doesn’t have an external mic port.
The Canon G7 X Mark II k II is sleek, lightweight, and pocketable. You can go with it just about anywhere! It perfectly complements your lifestyle if you travel a lot and you’re looking to start beauty and makeup vlogging. But if you would rather record your vlogs in 4K, then we recommend getting the newer Canon G7X Mark III.
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#6 – Best Budget Camera for Travel Vlogging
The Sony Alpha a6000 is yet another mirrorless camera with a flip-up touchscreen on this roundup list. It’s compact, lightweight, and relatively affordable to suit entry-level vloggers who want a portable camera for travel vlogging. With it, you get pro-level 1080p/60fps video in most lighting conditions.
Sony Alpha a6000 Key Specs:
- Type: Mirrorless
- Sensor: 24.3MP APS-C Exmor HD CMOS Sensor
- Screen: 3-inch Flip-Up Touchscreen LCD
- Image Stabilization: None
- Zoom: Depends on the Lens
- Video: 1080p up to 60 fps
- Record Limit: 29 minutes
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth, Micro-HDMI, Micro-USB
- Battery Life: 400 shots
- Weight: 283 g (Without a Lens)
The Sony Alpha a6000 is a portable, entry-level mirrorless camera that finds a place in this list due to its affordable price, ease of use, and flip-up touchscreen.
It pairs a 24.3MP APS-C-sized Exmor HD CMOS sensor and BIONZ X image processor which allows it to record 1080p video footage at up to 60fps. It can also shoot vibrant, print-quality stills!
To complement the imaging capabilities, it features a fast Hybrid AF system that delivers quick, accurate, and consistent focusing. This autofocus is especially useful for on-the-go vlogging where the subjects keep changing!
The a6000 also features built-in WiFi connectivity with NFC. You can link it with mobile devices for image live viewing, file sharing, and remote camera control.
Pros:
- A compact and lightweight design that offers portability.
- Captures some of the best night shots for a mirrorless camera of its budget.
- Shoots both JPEG and RAW.
- A decent inbuilt stereo mic.
Cons:
- Lacks a camera in-body image stabilization.
- Lacks an external mic jack.
The Sony Alpha a6000 is a perfect fit for beginner travel and lifestyle vloggers who want to capture the best possible footage but don’t want to carry a bulky DSLR. When paired with the 16-50mm lens, it still keeps its portable design and will perfectly fit inside a small purse!
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#7 – Best Budget Vlogging Camera Under $500
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a solid entry-level DSLR that we recommend to vloggers who are just starting out or upgrading from a smartphone. It features a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor and a DIGIC 4+ image processor.
The combination allows it to shoot impressively sharp 1080p/30fps video and high-quality stills with low noise, even in low lighting conditions. And for the price range of under $500, this camera is super-affordable!
Canon EOS Rebel T7 Key Specs:
- Type: DSLR
- Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
- Screen: 3.0″ 920k-Dot Fixed LCD
- Image Stabilization: None
- Zoom: Depends on the Lens in Use
- Video: Full HD 1080/30p
- Record Limit: Up to 29 Minutes, 59 Seconds for Full HD
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi with NFC, Canon E3, HDMI C (Mini), USB Micro-B (USB 2.0)
- Battery Life: 600 Shots per Charge
- Weight: 475 g (Body with Battery and Memory)
The Rebel T7 earned a place in this review as one of the best budget vlogging cameras due to its easy menu system and automatic settings. Its ease of use ensures that you don’t need to do anything apart from point and shoot.
As a beginner vlogger, this camera will help you to get started with shooting your videos as you slowly learn to work with the manual settings over time. We recommend getting it with the 18-55mm kit lens that offers a 28.8 to 88mm equivalent zoom range.
That said, its main drawback is the LCD screen which is fixed and not a touchscreen. Its lack of these features makes it unappealing to the vloggers who want to enjoy selfie-mode video content creation!
Pros:
- Super affordable and beginner-friendly!
- Shoots good quality Full HD footage for a camera of its price.
- Excellent battery life.
- It includes an 18-55mm Lens to get you started in your vlogging.
Cons:
- The LCD is fixed and not a touchscreen.
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a solid, entry-level DSLR that packs most of the essential features a beginner would need to start creating vlogging content. It cuts out the frills and keeps everything to the basics, which makes it super affordable and very easy to use!
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#8 – Best Budget Vlogging Camera with Superzoom
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 is quite a capable bridge superzoom camera. It has a 24x optical zoom with an equivalent focal length range of 25-600mm. That’s very expansive, and given that it records 4K/30fps video, this makes a perfect outdoor adventure budget vlogging camera.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 Key Specs:
- Type: Bridge Camera
- Sensor: 12.1MP 1/2.3″ MOS Sensor
- Screen: 3.0″ 1.04m-Dot Free-Angle Touchscreen
- Image Stabilization: 5-Axis HYBRID O.I.S.+
- Zoom: 24x optical with 25 to 600mm Equivalent Focal Length Range
- Video: 4K/30fps
- Record Limit: Up to 29 Minutes, 59 Seconds
- Connectivity: WiFi, AV Output, HDMI D (Micro), USB Micro-B (USB 2.0)
- Battery Life: 300 Shots
- Weight: 691 g (Body with Battery and Memory)
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 is a well-rounded superzoom camera that pairs a 12.1MP High-Sensitivity MOS sensor and Venus Engine image processor. The combination allows it to shoot impressively sharp 4K/30fps video in different light conditions.
It features a 5-axis HYBRID O.I.S.+ image stabilization that benefits handheld video recording, especially in low-light situations. You also get a 1.44m-dot OLED Live View Finder for eye-level shooting.
The expansive 25-600mm equivalent focal length range makes the DMC-FZ300 quite a versatile camera. With this zoom range, it covers wide-angle to super-telephoto perspectives.
Panasonic has designed this camera with a nice, ergonomic grip for excellent handling especially when shooting with longer focal lengths. And with the large vari-angle touchscreen LCD, you can enjoy seamless selfie-mode vlogging!
Pros:
- Quite affordable for a superzoom camera with its imaging capabilities.
- A robust, splash/dustproof design.
- A large OLED viewfinder.
- External mic input and a built-in flash.
- Flip-out touchscreen LCD which is perfect for selfie-mode vlogging.
Cons:
- The image stabilization could be better!
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 is a versatile superzoom camera that comes at a relatively affordable price tag. It records 4K/30fps video, has a flip-out touchscreen, external mic port, and an ergonomic grip, which makes it one of the best budget superzoom cameras for outdoor vlogging.
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#9 – Best Budget Camcorder for Vlogging
The Canon VIXIA HF R800 is the perfect budget camcorder for beginner vloggers. It features a lightweight and portable design to complement the lifestyle of on-the-go vloggers.
Canon VIXIA HF R800 Key Specs:
- Type: Camcorder
- Sensor: 3.28 MP 1-Chip 1/4.85″ CMOS
- Screen: 3” Touchscreen LCD Flip Screen
- Image Stabilization: SuperRange Optical
- Zoom: 32x Optical, 57x Advanced (Optical)
- Video: 1080p up to 60fps
- Record Limit: Up to 2 hours when recording in 1080p at 35Mb/s
- Connectivity: Mini-HDMI (Type C) and USB 2.0 Mini-AB output
- Battery Life: 3 hours
- Weight: 305 g (including battery, memory card, and grip belt)
The Canon VIXIA HF R800 can make a great cheap vlogging camera for entry-level YouTubers. Thanks to the flip-screen and the 3.28MP CMOS Image Sensor that pairs with a capable DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor.
These features allow it to deliver Full HD video recording with natural color even in dimly lit conditions. The sensor has been designed with an on-chip noise reduction technology that enhances the image and footage clarity in every frame.
Our favorite feature in this camera is its powerful 57x Advanced (Optical) Zoom that provides for a seamless long-range shooting experience. It’s a terrific feature to have as a beginner, especially if you’re into fast-paced sports vlogging.
Pros:
- An affordable and easy-to-use camcorder with a touchscreen LCD flip-out screen.
- Captures vivid, noise-free videos and photos, even in dark situations.
- SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer that quickly corrects camera shakes across the zoom range.
- Records slow-motion at 0.5x and fast-motion at top speeds of up to 1200x.
- A mic input and headphone jack terminals.
Cons:
- Lacks wireless (WiFI, NFC, Bluetooth) connectivity.
- A poor quality inbuilt mic.
- Doesn’t shoot in RAW.
The Canon VIXIA HF R800 is compact and lightweight. It has been equipped with a high capacity 2760 mAh rechargeable Li-Ion battery and supports super-high capacity SDXC cards of up to 2048 GB. These features allow it to earn a place among the best budget vlogging cameras on this list!
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON | B&H PHOTO
#10 – Best Budget Action Camera for Vlogging
The AKASO EK7000 is a terrific camera for beginner vloggers. It’s an inexpensive action camera that looks and works almost like a GoPro.
AKASO EK700 Key Specs:
- Type: Action
- Resolution: 12 Megapixels
- Screen: 2.0-inch Fixed LCD
- Image Stabilization: None
- Zoom: None
- Video: 4K/25 fps
- Record Limit: About 90 minutes (depends on battery charge)
- Connectivity: WiFi and HDMI
- Battery Life: Records up to 90 minutes of 4K/25fps footage per charge
- Weight: 59.5 g (with battery)
The AKASO EK7000 does almost everything a GoPro can do. That includes 4K video recording, time-lapse, still photos, and burst mode. In fact, the photos and videos look almost similar to the ones captured by GoPro. And it has inbuilt WiFi!
From the camera design to the packaging material, this is clearly a GoPro imitation. Just like GoPro, the EK7000 comes with waterproof housing that is rated down to 30 meters (100 feet). The mounting system is also the same!
The great thing about this camera is its much simpler controls. It shoots 4K footage at up to 25fps, 1080p at up to 60fps, and 720p at up to 120fps for slow-motion playback. It takes images of up to 12MP that measure 4608×2592 pixels.
NOTE: The EK7000 only has one field of view of 170 degrees, which isn’t as wide as that of a GoPro!
Other photo sizes that you can capture with the camera include 8MP, 5MP, and 4MP wide that measure 3760×2120, 2976×1672, and 2648×1504. The only drawback of this action camera is the lack of in-camera image stabilization capabilities.
Pros:
- An affordable and worthy GoPro alternative with simpler controls.
- Two 1050mAh batteries and a dual dock charger included.
- Connects to iOS and Android devices with the iSmart DV app.
- A micro-USB port for charging (USB cable included) and a micro-HDMI port for file transfer.
- The package includes a small 2.4GHz wireless remote control, clips, small mounts, straps, and tethers to help you get started.
Cons:
- Only takes 3 photos in 1.5 seconds in burst mode.
- Lacks a touchscreen.
- Audio mutes when using the waterproof housing.
If you’re looking for a cheaply priced GoPro alternative, then you have all the reasons to get the AKASO EK7000 . But with a few extra bucks, you can get the AKASO EK7000 Pro that comes with an in-camera EIS, adjustable view angle, and a touchscreen display.
→ BUY NOW AT: AMAZON
Camera Gear at B&H Photo
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST BUDGET CAMERA FOR VLOGGING
A budget camera doesn’t mean it’s poorly designed or made of cheap materials.
It only means that you will be trading in some extra features for a lower price.
In most cases, these features aren’t even that necessary for successful and seamless vlogging, especially if you’re just starting out.
What to Look For To Get A GOOD Budget Vlogging Camera
The first step to buying a budget camera for your vlogging it so know the features that make a vlogging camera GOOD.
Below we list the main things you should consider when buying your ideal camera for vlogging.
NOTE: All the cameras that we have recommended in this guide perform well in each of these aspects.
1. Low-Light Performance
Find a camera that performs well in low light conditions. Keep in mind that “low-light” not only implies night time but also conditions where there is not enough natural lighting. That includes indoors, a cloudy or foggy scene, or in shadow areas like behind buildings or under a bridge.
A camera with a poor performance in low-light will reduce its frame rate per second (fps) as it tries to let in more light when capturing the frames. The footage recorded might be blurred due to image noise.
2. Sensor Size
The bigger the sensor size, the more light the camera captures, and the better the footage quality. Sensor sizes are determined by the camera type. Camcorders and action cams have the smallest, while DSLRs and mirrorless cameras have the largest sensors. Compact cameras will fall somewhere in between.
3. Lens Aperture
A good quality lens will have a wide aperture, which allows it to capture more light. With a wide aperture, you will also be able to achieve the blurry background effect. This gives your vlogs nice aesthetics, especially if you’re shooting videos while sitting in front of your camera.
4. Optical Image Stabilization
Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) helps in stabilizing the footage by minimizing the appearance of shake when recording while moving around. Without OIS, the video will be shaky and hard to watch.
TIP: When buying a budget camera, always look for optical or 5-axis image stabilization.
5. Video and Image Resolution
A good vlogging camera should be able to at least record 1080p footage at 30fps. Some of the cameras that we have recommended above can shoot 1080p at up to 60fps, which is great. If you’re intending to capture some stills for your photography blog, then you’ll want to consider the megapixels.
6. Audio Quality
Nothing turns off your audience like having good vlog content with poor audio quality. Look for a camera with a decent inbuilt stereo microphone.
We like to use an external mic so when we look for a camera it must have a microphone input for an external mic.
We use and recommend the Rode Wireless Go II!
7. Connectivity
WiFi should be a basic feature of vlogging cameras.
With WiFi, you can easily share and transfer files to a mobile/computer device for instant uploading to YouTube and other platforms.
Having NFC (Near Field Communication) and Bluetooth and output terminals like HDMI and USB is also a plus.
8. Battery Life
A camera with a good battery life will allow you to shoot massive footage and photos before you run out of charge.
We recommend you ALWAYS have a spare camera battery that’s charged and ready. Recording video drains the camera battery pretty fast so it’s a good rule to always have extra on hand.
9. Weight and Size
A compact and lightweight camera offers portability. You can slip it in your backpack, purse or pocket.
One of the best things about most budget cameras is their ultra-portable design which makes them great for on-the-go vloggers and travel bloggers.
And a lightweight tripod is another must-have!
