Starting a YouTube channel can be an exciting venture, especially when you’re equipped with the right tools. One crucial element that significantly contributes to the success of your content is the camera you use. That is why I have come up with this list comprising of the best 5 cameras for YouTube
The best thing is, you don’t have to break the bank to buy a decent camera to get started on YouTube – You can start with your phone. But in today’s blog post, we’ll discuss the most affordable and cheap cameras you can buy for YouTube.
Many people have become YouTube stars overnight right from their garages. They have not only become famous but also have made crazy tons of money along the way to become YouTube millionaires. With the right tools, you too, can become the next Mr. Beast.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best 5 cameras for YouTube which are ideal for aspiring YouTubers looking to create high-quality videos and potentially make money on the platform like yourself. With this list of top cameras, you can easily make money on YouTube in 2024.
1. Canon EOS M50 Mark II
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a mirrorless digital camera designed for content creators, vloggers, and amateur filmmakers. It tops our list of best 5 cameras for YouTube because it offers a compact form factor with advanced features to capture high-quality photos and videos.
Features of the Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Equipped with a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor, the M50 Mark II provides 4K video recording and a 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen. Its Dual Pixel autofocus ensures quick and accurate focus, making it suitable for dynamic shots. The camera, which tops our list of the best 5 cameras for YouTube – cheap cameras to buy in 2024, also supports a variety of lenses, expanding its versatility. This is arguably the most sophisticated yet cheap camera to buy in 2024.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Excellent autofocus for both photos and videos.
- Flip-out touchscreen enhances vlogging capabilities.
Cons:
- Limited 4K video frame rates.
- M50 Mark II lacks in-body image stabilization.
My Personal Experience of the M50 Mark II
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II, the best in our list of the best 5 cameras for YouTube – cheap cameras to buy in 2024, impressed with its user-friendly interface and reliable autofocus. It excelled in capturing crisp images and smooth videos during vlogging sessions. However, I found the absence of in-body stabilization a slight drawback for handheld shooting.
Pricing
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is priced around $729, making it a reasonably affordable option for content creators on a budget.
Alternatives
- Sony ZV-E10
- Panasonic Lumix G85
NOTE: Consider investing in additional lenses for diverse shooting scenarios, such as wide-angle lenses for vlogging or prime lenses for portraits.
2. Sony A6400
The Sony A6400 comes second in our list of the best 5 cameras for YouTube – cheap cameras to buy in 2024. It is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera catering to enthusiasts and professionals seeking high-quality video recording and photography capabilities.
Features of the Sony A6400
Boasting a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, the A6400 stands out with its 4K video recording, impressive autofocus, and a tilting touchscreen. The camera’s Real-time Eye autofocus and tracking make it ideal for capturing subjects in motion. This makes it one of the best 5 cameras for YouTube – cheap cameras to buy in 2024.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Fast and accurate autofocus for video and photography.
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability.
- Tilting touchscreen enhances usability.
Cons:
- Limited battery life.
- Lack of in-body image stabilization.
My Personal Experience of the Sony A4600
The Sony A6400 delivered outstanding results in both photo and video settings. Its autofocus capabilities were particularly impressive, ensuring sharp focus even in challenging conditions. However, the battery life required careful management during extended shooting sessions.
Pricing
Priced around $998, the Sony A6400 offers a competitive option in the mid-range mirrorless camera market.
Alternatives to the Sony A6400
- Fujifilm X-T30
- Canon EOS M6 Mark II
NOTE: Explore the variety of Sony E-mount lenses available to enhance your creative possibilities, ranging from wide-angle to telephoto options.
3. Panasonic Lumix GH5
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 comes third on our list of the best 5 cameras for YouTube – cheap cameras to buy in 2024. It is a micro four-thirds mirrorless camera designed for professional videography, offering advanced video features and robust build quality.
Features of the Panasonic Lumix GH5
With a 20.3MP sensor, the GH5 excels in video recording with 4K capabilities, 5-axis in-body stabilization, and a high frame rate for slow-motion footage. It also features a durable magnesium alloy body suitable for various shooting environments.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Professional-grade video recording capabilities.
- In-body stabilization for steady shots.
- High frame rate for impressive slow-motion.
Cons:
- Larger and heavier compared to some mirrorless counterparts.
- Autofocus performance trails behind competitors.
My Personal Experience of the Panasonic Lumix GH5
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is the third on our list. It proved its worth in demanding video projects, especially with its stabilization and slow-motion capabilities. However, the autofocus performance fell short in comparison to other options in its class.
Pricing
Priced around $997, the GH5 targets users seeking high-end video features without stepping into the realm of full-frame cameras.
Alternatives to the Sony A7 III
- Sony A7 III
- Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K
Investigate the compatibility of the GH5 with various lenses to tailor your setup to specific shooting styles, such as wide-angle for landscapes or prime lenses for portraits.
4. DJI Pocket 2
The DJI Pocket 2 is a handheld 3-axis stabilized camera designed for users seeking compactness and ease of use without sacrificing video quality.
Features of DJI Pocket 2
With a 1/1.7-inch sensor, the Pocket 2 captures 4K video and 64MP photos. Its built-in gimbal ensures smooth footage, and the compact design makes it ideal for on-the-go vlogging. The camera also includes intelligent shooting modes for creative content.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Extremely portable and pocket-sized.
- 3-axis gimbal ensures stable footage.
- Quick and easy setup for spontaneous shooting.
Cons:
- Fixed focal length limits versatility.
- Limited manual control compared to larger cameras.
My Personal Experience of the DJI Pocket 2
The DJI Pocket 2 exceeded expectations in terms of portability and stabilization. Its ease of use and quick setup made it a go-to option for capturing impromptu moments. However, the fixed focal length can be limiting for certain shooting scenarios.
Pricing
Priced around $279, the DJI Pocket 2 offers an affordable and accessible option for those prioritizing portability.
Alternatives to the DJI Pocket 2
- Insta360 ONE X2
- Osmo Pocket (original)
NOTE: Explore the range of accessories available for the Pocket 2, such as the wide-angle lens attachment or wireless microphone, to enhance your shooting capabilities.
5. Logitech Brio Ultra HD Pro Webcam
The Logitech Brio Ultra HD Pro Webcam is a high-quality webcam designed for users looking to produce crisp and clear video content for online platforms
Features of Best 5 Cameras for YouTube
Capable of recording in 4K Ultra HD resolution with HDR, the Logitech Brio webcam provides exceptional video quality. It includes advanced features such as autofocus, 5x digital zoom, and a wide field of view, making it suitable for a variety of recording scenarios.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- High-quality video recording with 4K resolution.
- Wide field of view for group shots or presentations.
- Compatible with various video conferencing platforms.
Cons:
- Relies on ambient lighting for optimal performance.
- Fixed lens limits creative control.
Personal Experience
The Logitech Brio impressed with its ease of use and superior video quality during online meetings and content creation. While the fixed lens might limit artistic control, it excels in delivering sharp and vibrant video.
Pricing
Priced around $125, the Logitech Brio Webcam is the cheapest camera on our list. It provides an affordable option for users seeking high-quality video without the complexity of a dedicated camera setup.
Alternatives to the Logitech Brio Webcam
- Razer Kiyo Pro
- Microsoft LifeCam Studio
NOTE: Consider investing in good lighting to enhance the Brio’s performance, as it relies on ambient lighting conditions for optimal video quality. Explore third-party software options for additional customization and control.