The Best Cameras for vlogs on YouTube in 2020 | Reviews and Guide

You have the passion, you have the energy and you have the urge. It remains for you to invest in the right equipment for a quality result. No, we’re not talking about your new sports resolution of school, but your future vlog!

With the rise of internet broadcast platforms (Youtube head) and the emergence of processors for increasingly simple image to use, the vlog has today become the reference medium to share your ideas and your points of interest. But the competition is tough, and if your audience will gladly forgive some errors of speech, he will prove intractable on the quality of picture and sound.

Originally intended for occasional use, the video function of digital cameras today has nothing to envy the cameras in terms of rendering quality. Best comparison to reviewed 5 cameras and cameras to make excellent vlogs in a constrained budget. And if you can not find your happiness in this selection, check our shopping guide to buying a vlog camera for your project!

Top 5 cameras vloguer on YouTube like a pro!

Focus: two tripods to stabilize your shots in a snap

Sony RX100 IV – A very good camera vlog

The Best Cameras For Vlogs On Youtube In 2020 | Reviews And Guide

Our review of the Sony RX100 camera vlog IV

Cyber-shot RX100 IV was the first of the compact RX100 range Sony TV filming 4K (3840 x 2160 px, UHD). Equipped with a sensor 1 “stacked CMOS Exmor RS ultra fast, and a 24mm-70mm f / 1.8-2.8, this apparatus also has modes fastest records 250, 500 and 1000 i / s. Perfect for shooting in slow-motion replays and fluids, while maintaining a clear, bright image!

Video mode, you can choose between pre customizable settings (PP1 to PP6) and the manual mode that lets you adjust your shoot in every detail, the image exposure to development. We also note the presence of recording assistants such as zebras and focus peaking to further optimize more rendering.

The recording 4K TV at 25 frames / s is possible over a period of 5 minutes. The XAVC-S format is used to maximize the compression video up to 100 Mb / s to increase the detail rendering, smooth movement and reduce moire. The HFR fashion (high frame rate), used for the effects of slow or decomposition of movement, offers recording speeds up to 40x to slow the speed of a scene.

Despite video features meeting the requirements of informed public or professional, the RX100 IV presents no outlet or headphone output microphone. This represents a major handicap for making vlogs on the move, outdoors, or in a non-manageable sound environment. Some users also note the difficulty setting certain patterns, which can put off beginners in photography as in video. Finally, the shooting time 4K may seem short and energy intensive course for excellent result, but difficult to use in native format if you are not using a recent editing software.

G7X Canon Mark II – A good choice of camera for making video youtube

The Best Cameras For Vlogs On Youtube In 2020 | Reviews And Guide

Our opinion on the vlog camera Canon Mark II G7X

Unlike the Sony RX100 that focuses on 4K to obtain optimal image definition, the Canon G7 Mark II does not rise higher than Full HD, enough for a vlog on YouTube. It offers a similar image to that grain can be found on cameras SLR, which may interest videographers looking for a made less “smooth”. The objective of the camera has an optical zoom equivalent to 24-100 mm f / 1.8-2.8 stabilized, allowing for diverse values ​​of z, from wide angle to very tight zoom. Some weaknesses in the accuracy of the periphery image and the edge image be noted, from an aperture of f / 5.6 to 24 mm as to 100mm.

In terms of ergonomics and robustness, the Canon Mark II G7X has some interesting advantages like a nice grip thanks to the handle on the case, a tilting touch screen up to 180 ° and down 45 ° to control the quality of the image even when shooting in cons-diving, and a control ring around the lens detachable video and manual mode. You will be able to tune-in filming in absolute silence.

His side precisely, this camera offers a sound recording in stereo, with two sensors on the top of the unit. However, again, no output for headphones or for an external microphone. Be careful when shooting in an environment not sound manageable!

Finally, WiFi and NFC functions let you take control of your camera remotely once it paired with your smartphone, or store your data directly to your computer without cables!

G9X Canon Mark II – Another good camera to film on youtube

The Best Cameras For Vlogs On Youtube In 2020 | Reviews And Guide

Our opinion on the vlog camera Canon Mark II G9X

Cousin of G7X Mark II, the Canon Mark II G9X stands out of it, not by technology but by its format. The case is slightly bigger than a playing card, with a fixed 4 touchscreen and controls to navigate between the different settings in addition to the mode dial. It is therefore an ultra-portable camera, optimized for photo taking view and not video.

objective side, it has taken varying possibilities of view smaller than its cousin (28mm-84mm f / 2 to 4.9 against 24mm-100mm f / 1.8-2.8 for G7X Mark II) and a lower image quality in low light conditions. The development and the settings can be done from the touch screen or the control ring around the lens. Warning: this device does not adjust focus or another setting when the shooting started. In terms of image definition, the G9X Mark II is equipped with a CMOS sensor 1 ” and DIGIC7 technology, identical to those of G7X Mark II, which can shoot in Full HD, but not in 4K UHD. The same goes for the sound: you will have to trust the audio inputs built into the case for lack of headphone and microphone jack.

In terms of connectivity, the G9X Mark II has a mini USB port for charging and data transfer, as well as a mini HDMI. It also benefits from wireless technologies, NFC and Bluetooth, useful to supplement the use of your smartphone and quickly share your shots. On this last point, the function Short movie clip, which allows shooting mini video clips of up 8s seem a good idea for those who are addicted to social networks and instant shots of everyday slices.

Through its technical capabilities and ergonomics, this compact is positioned alongside amateurs rather high-end cameras, not range environments for experienced users or professionals. It is recommended for beginners who want to become familiar with the various shooting modes setting, or for public distribution in mobility, or in extra a more sophisticated device.

Nikon Coolpix A900 – A camera for youtube cheap

The Best Cameras For Vlogs On Youtube In 2020 | Reviews And Guide

Our opinion on the Nikon Coolpix camera vlog A900

Compact and easy to use, the Nikon Coolpix A900 is distinguished by a rotating screen hinge, clear menus, easy to configure, a CMOS sensor of 20.3 megapixels, optical zoom 24mm-840 mm with an aperture of f / 3.4 to 6.9 and the ability to shoot 4K if desired. The Wi-Fi connections, Bluetooth low energy and connectivity Snapbridge (to couple the camera smartphones) are also incorporated. Many assets that facilitate filming and provide good quality screen rendering.

It may be noted that the Coolpix A900 does not offer fashion especially dedicated to video, but a simple button switchable recording with PASM. An interesting feature to take pictures while shooting without having to reconfigure your device. A slideshow mode clips, which assembles several small clips of a maximum duration of 30 seconds is also integrated, perfect for quickly disseminating a teaser on social networks.

The presence of a vibration reduction system that enables clear images in all circumstances, as well as large diaphragm opening of the beach make this a recommended device for vlogueurs looking for net shots whatever the situation, however, at the expense of image brightness. For indoor shooting, additional lighting may be necessary to not spend too much time in post-production.

Yi 4K + – The perfect camera for adventurers vlog / sports

The Best Cameras For Vlogs On Youtube In 2020 | Reviews And Guide

Our review of the Sony RX100 camera vlog IV

To complete this selection, we chose the action cam YI 4K +, presented as a GoPro for serious competitor in the field of video mobility and sport.

With a camera angle of 155 ° opening at f / 2.8, a CMOS Exmor R 1 / sensor 2.3 “12MP, handkerchief of the dimensions (42 x 65 x 30 mm) and many customizations possible to shoot in 4K, this camera can be your best ally you are fans of extreme sports or just love to show your latest shoes, unpretentious artistic rendering.

One advantage compared to other models offered outside its ease of use and transport? Two accessories: a Type-C to RCA adapter to connect the camera to a TV, for example, and a Type-C adapter to 3.5mm jack socket to connect to the camera external microphone. A vital decision because the quality of the audio capture is a weak point of this camera, more ready to capture the wind as your voice.

Besides the many proposed image size variations (of 480px in 4K HD), the camera offers the following settings: shutter speed video, lock sensitivity, exposure mode, white balance, sensitivity, exposure compensation, color profile, time stamp, choose quality, choose the maximum file size. Everything listed in clear and ergonomic menus that will satisfy the beginner as much as advanced users.

The image stabilization is room for improvement from the perspective of users accustomed to the GoPro amortized, but greatly improved compared to the previous version of this model. Also note that this camera heats up quickly, and the battery makes it difficult to reach 70mn shooting continuously promised by the manufacturer.

If you are interested, discover in this other article, best sports camera 2018.

Focus: two tripods to stabilize your shots in a snap

The image stability is the second concern of aspiring videographers (the first is the sound quality). Nothing worse than a video that causes seasickness after viewing 3 minutes, due to a decision flickering view. To help you overcome this difficulty (or if you seek a more creative alternative to Selfie stick), we offer 2 small legs that no lack of flexibility!

J by Gorillapod JB01503 – The best tripod camera vlog

Our opinion on tripod camera vlog J by Gorillapod JB01503

A pioneer of the genre, the Gorillapod from Joby tripod brand is an all terrain that can support any type of camera or photo equipment under 1kg. The three flexible legs, plastic and rubber for more grip, enable stable image in any conditions: on a table, a rock, rolled or folded on a branch at the end of your arm for a selfie … Lightweight and short (197g, fastening system included, to 26 cm long), this small tabletop tripod is discrete in a travel bag. A thread 1.4 ” swivel 90 ° lets you attach your camera safely in the position you want. Failure ? Without the purchase of right accessories, you can not fix smartphone top. A little less for videographers who opted for this type of camera.

Fotopro RM95 – The best cheap smartphone tripod

Our opinion on the tripod for smartphone Fotopro RM95

For those seeking an extra tripod can support both smartphones that shares GoPro type cameras, flexible tripod Fotopro RM95 represents a good compromise between lightness and modularity.

With 3 feet of a flexible 12cm length to 80g, the Fotopro RM95 differs from Gorillapod by its “clip” with an adjustable jaw having a maximum width of 8.4 cm to fix the phone securely. A thread 1.4 ” is also proposed to set more traditional cameras or compact digital cameras. It is also important to note that the tripod head rotates 180 ° to allow you more freedom in choosing the angle of view.

Although convenient and discreet, this tripod is not designed to accommodate heavy digital devices, it will break or not to be rigid enough to support a position of camera a bit exotic (eg hanging from a branch). Also, some users have noted a certain fragility and a little lack of flexibility of the feet. It is therefore a tripod rather reserved for occasional use or extra while filming.

Choose your vlog camera: few things to check

The devices before you try, but you do not know which one is right for you? No problem, find below the list of questions to ask you to maximize your investment while producing quality vlogs!

What is your project ?

Videographers making critical reviews of the latest movies at the box office does not have the same hardware requirements as hiking fans who discover the most beautiful corners of the country. The first will focus on the quality of his return and image lit studio, the others will focus on the lightness of the device and possibly different image stabilization options, for example.

So, before you even start to flick hardware catalogs, take the time to define the conditions of filming the most recurrent of your project vlog: will you still inside, or on the contrary, outside? What is the brightness of your location? Will you be moving or are you going to ask your audience still facing camera? Based on your answers, certain technical criteria of your future camera grab your attention more than others when choosing.

HD ? Full HD ? 4K ?

Your project will enable you to assess the degree of definition of the image you need. The unit of measure is the pixel. Basically, you have more pixels in an image, the more it will seem clear on the screen. You will find below the number of pixels according to different naming formats called “high definition”

– HD (high definition or 720p): 1280 pixels per line x 720 lines

– Full HD (1080p or 1080i): 1920 × 1080, or about 2 million pixels per frame.

– the UHD (ultra high definition or, guidance screen 16/9): 3840 × 2160, which is 4 times more pixels than Full HD.

– 4K: 4096 × 2160, slightly more than the UHD, but with a movie format. Thin black bars appear at the top and bottom of the image.

Many tend to say that over the definition is high initially, the image will be sharp allowing a qualitative final report. But is it really necessary for a YouTuber beauty shoot in 4K, and thus give the opportunity to each spectator to count the pores of his nose? Also, keep in mind that a film shot in 4K is not only greedy in storage space, but will also require a much more powerful computer and a recent editing software to edit your videos. These settings may strain your budget first.

Size matters … for the sensor

The sensor size is critical in your choice, perhaps more than the definition. Indeed, over the sensor, the more it is able to store light and thus, the image is likely to be light, even if the place where you turn is not particularly. Caution: this size is expressed in millimeters or in fractions of inch, depending on the manufacturer. For example, a sensor 1 / 2.5 inch sensor is smaller than 1 / 1.6 inches and a sensor 24 × 36 mm is larger than APS-C sensor.

Focus and zoom

Are you going to shoot great landscapes or details of your porcelain collection? Your answer to this question will determine the desired focal length for your future device. The focal length is “viewing angle” of your device. It is expressed in millimeters. The higher the number of the focal length, the smaller the viewing angle is wide, the lower the number, the greater the plan is tightened. Thus, a focal length of 24 mm allows you to do wide shots and filming the floral garden or the whole family at the wedding of your cousin in one take, without moving. Conversely, a focal length of 100mm or more will allow you to highlight the fine cracks that Monet painting, even if you are at 3m of the table.

We have presented in this review of compact digital cameras, so the goal is not changeable. All are equipped with a variable focus lens, that is to say a lens that offers the ability to make camera zooms. Besides the image magnification capability, check the following two data before making your purchase:

Depth of Field: open your diaphragm

Data complementary to the focal length, aperture value of the diaphragm (expressed by the sign f / tracking numerical values) allows you to evaluate the capabilities of your camera to restore the depth of field of the scene filmed (or more simply, blurriness behind the target subject).

When the iris is wide open (f = 1.4, a lot of light enters the lens), the depth of field is reduced. This isolates a sharp subject in an environment at a portrait or a macro level, for example. Conversely, a closed diaphragm (f = 32, some light entering the lens) increases the depth of field, useful for integrating an action or a character in a set, or capture a landscape in its entirety.

Critical Teacher?

While the proposed devices are all equipped with audio sensors, these may not be enough to get quality sound mix for your vlog, a fortiori if you set your camera to autofocus mode, or if you turn in outside. The ability to connect an external microphone on your device (as permitted by YI 4K +) can be a key detail for the success of future videos. Remember this adage vlogueurs: the public easily forgive the poor quality of the image, but not the sound.

A rotating screen to control your shooting

If you plan to make videos facing camera, a swivel screen will prove a considerable asset to control what happens on the screen during shooting, without moving from your chair. With a 180 ° orientation, cameras Sony RX100 Canon G7X IV and Mark II are excellent students this selection criterion. You will save yourself and the loss of time at the time of your derush taken to eliminate all those that you were out of scope.

Small details of connectors and connectivity

These small details can quickly become necessities when you use your camera to shoot video.

connectivity, check the compatibility of your device with a wide range of SD cards on the market (as YI 4K +) Discover the best micro SD cards. This will prevent you to interrupt your shooting in 4K every 10 minutes because of a memory card undersized. An HDMI port is required to connect to the choice, an external hard drive to store your files, a screen monitor to control the quality of the image if your camera does not swivel screen or even an external microphone, if your case does not present specific output for the latter. Make sure that this output is not applying data compression, to maintain maximum image quality before installation.

Connectivity side, more and more cameras incorporate a Wi-Fi or NFC to pair your smartphone to your camera and turn it into a remote control for example. The Nikon Coolpix A900 is a good example for connectivity by combining WiFi, Bluetooth low energy and Snapbridge functionality in one box. About these technologies, check the packaging uses recommended by the manufacturers. For some devices, WiFi only serves camera data transfer facilitator to your computer, while others allow you to browse the web directly from your camera.

You now have the turnkey to peel the technical data for your vlog cameras and choose the happy witness of your future exploits videos! Finally, remember that if you decide to postpone such investment, most new smartphones offer excellent video recording solutions, if you take the time to set the video function. A rather interesting solution if you want to optimize the purchase of a product by multiplying the uses!