Are you a blogger who wants to add beautiful photos or videos to your blog?
When looking for a good vlogging camera, it’s essential to choose the one that will achieve your objectives for your blog. But how do you decide which camera you should get and what types of equipment you need to make your blog the best that it can be?
Think about what you wish to accomplish. What do you want to be the focus of your blog? Will you need a high-resolution camera? If you are in the nature photography space where you are showing off your photography work, you will want to shop for the best camera your money can buy. If you are just a student making a journal for a class project, you may only need a small “point-and-shoot” type video camera that is capable of taking some nice engaging clips.
If you need help choosing the best vlogging camera for begginers, check out comparison table below to compare models and price ranges to aid in your decision.
Best Vlogging Camera for Beginners
1. Least Expensive High Action Sports Camera
YI Discovery 4K Action Camera
If you have a blog that focuses on high action sports, you’ll want to find a camera that is capable of fast speed and ultra HD resolution. The YI Discover 4K Action Camera does it all, using the latest 4K technology and ultra HD shooting technologies to get you up close to the action in HD quality.
If you are filming swimming action, you have no worries with this dandy camera. It’s waterproof up to 40 meters so you can even get footage underwater.
Specifications
The technical aspects of this camera make it the perfect high-action sports camera. It’s user-friendly interface, and waterproof underwater capabilities let you expand to create underwater videos to share with your fans.
Features
It also has a nice wide-angle lens so you can focus on the details featuring eight different shooting modes. Once you’re done with your footage, you’ll be able to share it with your audience with the built-in Wi-Fi instantly allows you to download at speeds of 26 Mbps. You can even connect it to your smartphone with the YI app to share on Facebook.
Recommendations
We would recommend this video blogging camera for anyone who wants to create stunning high-definition footage of high-action sporting events like dirt biking, skiing, or racing events. The easy, user-friendly interface lets you get close to the action with ease while getting the best quality possible of your events.
Summary
If you’re looking for a high-quality HD camera that’s easy to use, the technology in this camera is hard to beat. There’s a wide-angle feature that will let you film the entire scene and plenty of other shooting modes that make this camera a great choice for video bloggers who want to record high-action events simply and easily. Best of all, this camera is less than $100. It’s a steal at that price.
Pros | Cons
- Helps you create stunning 4K and HD quality footage easily
- Waterproof technology lets you film underwater
- Some users have reported problems with audio synching after editing
- May not be compatible with some older technologies or file types
2. Best Handheld Video Camera for Beginners Under $200
SUNLEA Camera/Camcorder
For those who prefer the traditional-looking camcorder with more modern video technology, this sweet camera by SUNLEA may be what you are looking for. It’s incredibly lightweight and portable, but it would be considered cutting edge because of its ability to record in full HD (1920x1080P).
Specifications
The NCR pickup technology and onboard pickup sensitivity switch allow the user to control the noise levels to produce the best clear sound. Plus, it has an IR remote that allows you to do selfies with more traditional video equipment when you want to use more than just your smartphone device.
Features
Not too confident in your ability to take some great video? You will be with this dandy camera, which is designed with the beginner in mind, not the studio professional. One of the negative aspects of all of the new technologies is that the equipment tends to be harder to operate as the technology increases. But his camera is easy to use, and it will produce nice results for your blogs.
Recommendations
If you want to use a camera that feels like the older standard video cameras but packs lots of modern features, you’ll enjoy this video blogging camera. It comes with a hot shoe mic, too for improved sound.
For the beginning video blogger or videographer, this would be a good introductory camera. It has enough features to help you get started without making things too complicated. But you may miss some of the newer technologies that you find in, the more cutting-edge camcorders.
Summary
Great camera for the money. At under $200, it’s a great deal for the beginner but lacks some of the more robust features of the higher-priced units.
Pros | Cons
- Looks and feels like the older camcorders
- Simple to use for the least experienced beginning blogger
- Doesn’t have the latest 4K or ultra HD technologies
- Features are limited to the traditional inputs/outputs and formats
3. Most Popular Sports Action Camera
GoPro HERO4
If you’ve been itching to try the popular GoPro HERO, here’s your chance to get in on the action. This certified refurbished camera includes everything you need, and it also comes with a 90-day warranty. The GoPro camera is very popular with sports fanatics, and it continues to be the camera of choice for many high-action event photographers.
Specifications
The GoPro HERO4 tops the list of GoPro cameras for those who want to start a sports blog or high-action video log. This version has improved camera control that allows you to take quick photos and video of the action. It captures high-quality photos in 12MP quality in speeds up to 30 fps. The 30 fps rate is standard for high-quality video.
Features
The easy navigation menu and built-in WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities of this camera make it a good choice for bloggers. You can manually control the color and ISO, as well as the exposure. There is even a night photo setting for those hard-to-get night shots.
Recommendations
For the beginner or more experienced photographer, you’ll love the GoPro technology. The design is similar to the traditional “point-and-shoot” cameras while packing several modern digital features that help your photos stand out in a crowd.
For the blogger who engages in filming high-action sporting events such as surfing, skiing, or skateboarding, here is a great introductory camera to try. It’s simple to use and features many of GoPro’s fast-action features.
Summary
Whether you’re a beginning blogger or a more experienced one, this GoPro HERO4 is a great introduction to the GoPro family of cameras. At less than $200, it’s a pretty good choice for the video blogger who wants to film the action and show it to the world.
Pros | Cons
- Smart design for either beginners or professionals
- Great price for GoPro camera
- Quality of the camera may depend on the reputation of the seller you buy from
- A bit higher than other models for a refurbished model
4. Best Full HD Bargain Camcorder
Besteker Video Camcorder with External Mic
This HD digital camcorder is a great start for today’s video blogger who wants to capture the action with stereo-quality sound. The Besteker Video Camcorder with External Mic allows you to take video the way you’re accustomed to with a traditional-looking interface. But you’ll get full HD quality at a reasonable cost.
Specifications
For the blogger who wants HD quality, the Besteker video camera comes equipped with a professional 72mm .39x wide angle lens, as well as a professional shotgun microphone, which adds a touch of professionalism to an otherwise simple video camcorder.
Features
With the professional features that they’ve put in this camcorder, it’s a great deal for under $200. The result is what matters, and the result of the professional mic and lens is nothing short of excellence. You’ll improve the quality of your video blog when you use this portable but professional camcorder.
Recommendations
This camera looks like the older handheld camcorder models, but it has some modern features that make it more like the professional models. So it would be a great camera for bloggers who want to include some HD video on their blog with improved picture and sound.
Summary
For traditional camcorder owners who want to step up to professional quality sound and video, this camcorder may be a good choice. The shotgun mic greatly improves the sound quality which may draw your readers into your content and increase your engagement levels. In the future, some of the features offered in this camera may improve including the wireless capabilities and an improved sensor that may help bloggers offer even more for their readers.
Pros | Cons
- Traditional menus and look make it feel like the video cameras of the past
- Professional lens and shotgun mic greatly improve picture and sound quality
- Battery may need to be charged after each use
- Requires a little more knowledge than a “point-and-shoot” type model
5. Smallest 4K HD Video Camcorder
Ablue Camcorder with 4K and WiFi
The Ablue Camcorder is one of the smallest 4K camcorders you will find on the market today. With a 3.0 capacitive LCD screen, it will support standard SD cards and comes with a wide-angle lens that lets you get close to the action in the highest resolution available.
Specifications
If you’ve started a blog, but you want to be on the cutting edge with the video technologies, you need to find a camera that will record in full HD with the 4K technologies. Soon this new format will be the standard so you will want to provide this format for your audience. This Ablue camcorder films in true 4K (2880×2160) resolution at 24fps which is industry standard for movies.
Features
The best features of this camcorder are the 4K capabilities and its small size, making it a simple, portable option for the recording material for your blog.
Recommendations
For the beginning or the more experienced videographer and blogger, here is a great camera for under $200 to help you ‘make the scene.’ It has many automatic features, but you can also go into the menu and set the camera to your favorite specifications.
Summary
For the blogger who wants to make the change to the new 4K and ultra HD standards, here is a great introductory camera at a good price. It is simple to use and has many of the traditional features like HDMI out while allowing for the new technology of 4K and ultra HD.
Overall, this is a great camera for the money. It’s also extremely compact which allows you to pack it for travel anywhere you go. For bloggers and video buffs who are ready to make the change to 4K video production, it’s a great one to start with.
Pros | Cons
- Small camera with big features (4K)
- Films fine in dark or light-challenged environments
- Isn’t loaded with professional features but does the job
- Requires software that edits 4K footage if editing
6. Best Live Event Camera for Android and iOS Devices
Mevo Live Event Camera for Android and Apple
Every blogger knows that people love “live events.” That’s why Ustream and YouTube have become so popular. Not only do they allow recorded video to stream from your channel but you can also stream live from anywhere. Using this handy dandy Mevo live event camera, you can attach it to your Android-compatible or iOS smartphone device and stream your event to either YouTube or LiveStream. It even lets you stream to your social media feed.
Specifications
The Mevo live stream device captures the live action with a Sony 4K sensor to produce the best quality possible. Stream in up to 1080p Full HD quality and you can record in up to 4K for later playback. It uses your mobile LTE connection to connect to WiFi.
Built-in stereo microphones with dedicated DSP, and the ability to plug in external audio through your mobile device or the Mevo Boost Accessory.
Features
The best feature of this camera is that you can live stream from anywhere using your phone’s data technology. It also has a built-in stereo microphone with a dedicated DSP. You can even plug in external mics.
Recommendations
For the video blogger, business owner, or anyone who wants to connect with your audience in real time, this is a great solution. It’s small and compact but packs a big bang for your buck when it comes to live streaming capabilities.
This live streaming event camera is perfect for “on-the-scene” cut-ins and updates for your audience. Just check to make sure it’s compatible with your particular phone before purchasing. Outstanding quality and under $300.
Summary
Overall, this is a great live stream camera for the money. It allows you to live stream events from anywhere using only this device and your smartphone to go live anytime. Get more followers on your blog by hosting regular live events.
Pros | Cons
- Small camera with big features (4K)
- Adds live event capabilities to any compatible Android device
- Isn’t compatible with iPhone below Android 6 OS or iOS devices below 9.3 version
- Requires software that edits 4K footage if editing
7. Best Compact “Selfie” Blogging Camera
Canon VIXIA Compact Personal Recorder
For the video blogger who wants a simple solution, this camera may be just what you are looking for. It features a modern design in a “flip-style” that resembles the older model cellphones, but it is packed with cutting-edge technology. You can easily prop it up on the included stand and record yourself to upload to your blog.
Specifications
This camera features a 12.8 MP camera that lets you shoot hands-free and puts you in the spotlight to share your ideas or talents with your adoring audience. It has a smart auto function that takes the guesswork out of getting the best shots, too.
Features
The best feature of this camera is the ability to set it up quickly to get some great footage that you can immediately share with the world from your blog or websites. It also features some of Canon’s best technology that was so popular with the older model Canon VIXIA line of camcorders.
Recommendations
If you are a video blogger and want a simple solution to the problem of getting the footage you want to share with your blogging audience, this is the perfect camera for you. It folds over when not in use and easily opens again on a whim to get the content you need for your blog.
Summary
For under $300, this is a steal. It features some of the best of Canon technology and lets you stick it in your pocket when now in use. It’s very convenient and does the job. Excellent quality pictures, too.
Pros | Cons
- Quick and easy solution for video bloggers
- Includes the excellent Canon VIXIA technology of the older camcorders
- Some users report it’s a bit more difficult to figure out than other models
- Battery may only last under an hour in some cases
8. Best Digital SLR for Bloggers
Canon EOS Rebel T6 Digital SLR Kit
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 is an upgrade from previous Canon Rebels, and it packs a punch for the serious video and camera blogger. With built-in WiFi and other great features, it offers an excellent solution for the video blogger who wants to move up in quality at a reasonable price.
Specifications
The Canon Rebel T6 offers an 18.0 MP APS-C CMOS sensor and a 920k-dot LCD for full HD 1080p recording at 30 fps. You can go from bright to lower light quickly, and there’s a built-in wireless NFC functionality to allow you to connect to social media and other outlets for quick uploading.
Features
The best feature of this camera is the ability to set it up quickly to get some great footage that you can immediately share with the world from your blog or websites. It also features some of Canon’s best technology that was so popular with the older model Canon VIXIA line of camcorders.
Recommendations
For anyone who has been a fan of the Canon Rebel SLR series, here’s a great way to advance your video or photo blog while getting a great deal on a Canon Rebel. It’s under $400 which is a great deal any way you look at it for this high-quality blogging camera. Studio professionals often use this same type of camera for their projects.
Summary
For video or photo blogs, this camera will do the trick. High resolution and HD quality make this a top choice for today’s video bloggers who want to bring the excellence of the Canon Rebel SLR to their projects.
Pros | Cons
- Professional quality photos and movies for under $400
- Includes the excellent Canon Rebel technology
- No autofocus for video so you must adjust this manually
- A more lightweight camera for Digital SLR; may not have all of the features of larger models
9. Best Underwater Camera for Vloggers
Sony FDRX3000 Underwater Camcorder
If you are a blogger who enjoys underwater filming, here’s a great camera to consider. It features a professional 4K ZEISS lens, known for high-quality imaging and an Exmor R CMOS sensor camera control. It is waterproof for up to 197 feet so you can film your underwater events without fuss.
Specifications
This cute white camcorder takes excellent underwater photos and videos with quality sound and built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. There is a mic jack for external mics that you can use to capture the sound of underwater creatures or other sounds. This would be a perfect choice for the oceanographer who has a video blog or anyone who wants to capture the underwater action.
Features
This nice-looking white camcorder does more than it appears to. It’s capable of taking excellent photo and video from up to almost 200 feet underwater. It is also packed with options to allow you to upload, share, and create to your heart’s content either underwater or on land!
Recommendations
This camera has an interval function that allows you to take pictures in 8.3 MP quality at specific intervals for excellent photos and video.
For the underwater photographer and blogger, here is a chance for you to break into the underwater photography business. Whether for fun or business, you will capture the attention of your audience with this camera and all for under $400. If you want a camera with more accessories or options, however, you may want to shop around.
Summary
Perfect for the new video underwater photoblogger, this camera will allow you to take underwater pics and videos with high quality. Underwater photography is a growing hobby, and you can expect to see more of these types of cameras with 4K ability shortly. It is quickly becoming the new standard in video delivery formats.
Pros | Cons
- Nice compact camcorder capable of shooting in 4K mode
- Great underwater camera for under $400
- Seems to lack accessories that you can purchase for this camera
- Needs the casing to be waterproof
10. Best Still Photo Camera
Nikon D3400
For the traditional lover of the 35mm cameras, this is a good pick for the photoblogger. The Nikon D3400 with AF-P DX technology captures the action in extremely high quality and sound.
Specifications
This Nikon digital SLR D3400 features SnapBridge Bluetooth connectivity and a whopping 24.2 MP CMOS sensor that comes with a professional image processor for the best quality pictures for photo and video blogs. The Native ISO has one of the widest ranges of options on the market today.
Features
The best feature of this camera is the professional quality high megapixel capabilities that are housed in a digital SLR format. This is perfect for the blogger who wants professional quality such as a professional photographer or business owner who wants to use media to attract their clients.
Recommendations
This camera is highly recommended for anyone wanting to have professional quality photos with the digital SLR format. Nikon is known for its attention to detail and quality in photography. So this would be a big step up for bloggers who want more professional quality in their pictures that they share with others.
Summary
If you don’t mind spending the extra money, you can still get this camera for under $500, which is quite a deal considering all you get for your money. You can take professional-looking photos in up to 24 MP that will surely make an impact on your audience.
Pros | Cons
- 24 MP professional quality makes this camera stand out among the rest
- Automatic transfer to your smart device
- A bit more complicated for the average user due to all of the options
- May take some practice to learn the settings to get the best results and it’s a bit pricey for the low budget blogger
Video Reviews
Conclusions
All of these cameras offer something special for the video and camera bloggers out there. Even if you are just getting started in the blogging world, these cameras allow you to get creative and offer visual social proof of your value as a vlogger while keeping your pocketbook intact, too. Have fun checking out these cameras.
Then just decide how much you can afford to spend and look at the features each one offers. You may want to start with a less expensive camera and move up as you grow or go for the gold and get the best quality camera now. Either way, you’ll be glad you took the time to research it. We hope our review helps you achieve this and best of luck to you with your video blog!
You have great things to share with the world. So get out there and share, share, share!
