Best Vlogging Camera

Top 5 Comparison and Buying Guide

Best Vlog Camera

Starting a video blog can be an overwhelming process. The idea of putting yourself out there for the entire judgmental internet to see can be quite unnerving. Having the right recording equipment at your fingertips is an important first step to build the confidence it takes to create captivating viral content. Put your smartphones down. They’re simply not up to the task of capturing a top notch video that online audiences expect. You need the right tools for the job. You need the best vlogging camera.

With the rapid rate of advancements in the camera field over the last few years, it can be hard to keep up with innovation. Today’s cameras are stuffed with sensors, processors, stabilizers, mirrors, lenses, and tons of other technological marvels; all with different specifications that vary among brands and models. But what specs really matter in a camera intended for video blogging? What might be important for cameras used in photography might not be as important in cameras used to create video, and vice versa. A great example is microphone location and accessibility. The ability to clearly hear the subject in a video is as important as being able to see them, and without adequate audio your viewers bounce to a related video on the side bar. From the importance of low light performance to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, our vlog camera reviews highlight the specifications most important to video and break down each of the top cameras on the market to ensure you find a good vlog camera that will exceed your expectations.

Choosing the perfect vlog camera that fits your filming style is a process that should be well researched. From bulky DSLRs to small point-and-shoot cameras, there are plenty of options that will meet your needs as a blogger. Point-and-shoot compact cameras provide some of the best versatility for beginners as they’re lightweight, compact, and often the most user friendly. However for more intermediate and advanced vloggers, DSLRs provide quality that is off the charts thanks to enhanced auto focus systems and insane sensors housed inside their larger casings. Action cams serve their purpose wonderfully for those on-the-go shots as well. And dare we mention camcorders? Major brands are revamping the camcorder with state of the art features that make capturing sharp video easier than ever.

Our team at ExpNet has comprised a list of what we found to be the best video cameras for vlogging. We hope the reviews aid in pointing you in the right direction to finding a good camera that will perform exceptionally well so you can focus on the content you want to produce, not on worrying if the device is up to the task.


Best Vlog Camera Reviews
Top 5 Comparison Table

Rank Product Price
1 Canon - PowerShot G7 X Mark II
Canon - PowerShot G7 X Mark II
2 Sony - DSC-RX100/B
Sony - DSC-RX100/B
3 GoPro - HERO6
GoPro - HERO6
4 Canon - PowerShot SX720 HS
Canon - PowerShot SX720 HS
5 Nikon - COOLPIX P900
Nikon - COOLPIX P900

Best Vlogging Camera Reviews
Top 5 Comparison Reviews

Canon - PowerShot G7 X Mark II

The Canon Powershot G7 is a marvel of crystal clear, error-free photography, and one of the most fun to use personally.  Though it harbors the highest price tag in this pack, it is also the most versatile, and proves the old adage of 'you get what you pay for' is true. In our professional opinion, the G7 Mark II is the best vlogging camera on the market today, let us explain why.

The PowerShot G7 is a seamless blend of a beautiful new aesthetic with the old-style, traditional Canon framework of yesteryear.  Its all black motif is sleek without being distracting, and its structure is soundly built.  The PowerShot G7 is the most compact of the vlog cameras on our list, able to fit snugly in your pocket or backpack.  The flash is hidden within the unit and effortlessly pops out when you need it.  The touchscreen is LCD and is tilt-type, meaning the 3 inch monitor flips up and has a movement range of 45 degrees up to 180 degrees.  With 1.04 million dots of resolution, the screen is pleasing to the eye and incredibly crisp composing shots, whether self portrait or otherwise.

Where the G7 really shines in comparison to the other vlogging cameras listed is its performance measured in speed.  It intelligently organizes its features and at 8fps can continuously shoot where nothing is missed in a moment you are capturing.  This is accomplished in JPEG, RAW, or the combination of both in mode2.  This conversion essentially means that the camera gives you a myriad of options to manipulate what you have captured based on the end game you hope to achieve with your footage.

Its picture style function is where the camera's 8 presets reside.  Contrast, color and additional filters and tools can be altered to micro-focus how you want the image you frame to record.  A nice addition is that the G7 gives you the freedom to download further preset styles to fit your expertise.

It is beneficial to use the PowerShot in low-light situations because of its CMOS sensor that is 20.1 megapixels.  The ISO up to 21800 promises that the environment in which you are shooting will not adversely affect the quality of videos and photos delivered.  This is a huge relief as it allows its users to comfortably snap regardless of the time of day or situation.  The Canon HS System highlights the detail of 'shadow' filled spaces to make sure your input is clear and colorful.

De-focusing the background to really make what is in front of you pop is a breeze with the iris diaphragm that has 9 blades.  The optical zoom lens is 4.2x can conjure beautiful images and video that are steady in accordance with the IS, which can calibrate the frame based on how much movement the camera is taking on.  Correcting the 'shakiness' of an image or video can be tricky with other point-and-shoot vlogging cameras similar to this one, but the G7 handles potential problems in real time.  A proponent of this device compared to the other cameras listed is that this is the best model for time lapse photography.  In addition, its panning can even make objects moving swiftly appear clean and motionless with no drag effect.

Video blogging is a revelation with the PowerShot because full HD 1080p video can be captured in stereo sound and in MP4 format so it can be uploaded to your blog or social media instantly, a critical feature for today’s vlogger. Checking the quality of your work (or play) on an HDTV is as simple as connecting it via its HDMI output.  It is also a natural fit for video blogging because it allows for in session adjustments during capture.  Things like focus points and ISO speeds can be changed while vlogging so that you can rectify the picture instead of starting over.  This is particularly helpful during spur of the moment recording where as a videographer you don't have ample time to plan and just need to go with the flow.  The control ring makes the transition from a blurry image to a crystal clear one smooth and barely visible to the naked eye due to how quickly it corrects.

The G7 also excels in an area few think of when shooting; sound.  It is a quiet machine when used, and even when it is performing taxing tasks like keeping the focus of your target subjects with the DIGIC 7 processor, it still purrs like a kitten.  Moreover, via the Camera Connect app3 by Canon, the Wi-Fi tech is built-in so uploads to various web outlets is ready at a moment's notice.

The Canon PowerShot G7 Mark II Digital Camera is extensive, and may not be the best solution for new, aspiring photographers as it takes some getting used to.  That said, it also has the most in its arsenal for delivering professional, perfect video and making every user better at their craft. If you’re serious about capturing the attention of your audience, we think this is the best vlog camera to make that happen.

Sony - DSC-RX100/B

Right off the bat, the Sony RX100 combines two attributes that are worthwhile to vloggers and traditional photographers alike; a reputable brand and a commitment to quality. Moreover, even given its dimensions it is a sturdy piece of equipment that can withstand reasonable force if mishandled.

Compact is an understatement in size, as the RX100 appears as small as a disposable camera you'd get in a gift shop, only with 500 times the power. The body is made from sophisticated aluminum to bolster longevity despite advanced wear and tear. A glossy black finish and contoured shell make it a modern and dapper device, and differs compared to similar digital cameras in the sense that it looks easy to use before you even pick it up. This is not a unit that makes the mind race immediately thinking you will be overwhelmed in learning its features. As with all their products, Sony takes special care of their screens, and a 3 inch monitor incorporates the use of 12 million dots to accurately convey what you are attempting to shoot in a digital form. Piloting the camera is a cinch with 6 buttons on the back to guide you to sorting, snapping and filtering your content.

Any video you take is ready for the big screen in beautiful and polished 1080P. If you struggle with grabbing crisp photos because you can't hold still, the steady-shot feature stabilizes images and video and ensures they will not come out grainy. 60FPS generates astronomical clarity no matter how quickly something is moving across your line of sight, and the high performance lens never misses its mark as far as accumulating the best quality whichever mode you are in. Including a 32GB memory card is prudent to save all your best work.

The 1.8 lens is the aspect that steals the show, with Carl Zeiss being synonymous with razor-sharp snaps. The large diameter of the lens lends itself to defocusing backgrounds effortlessly, and flaring from light reflection is virtually non-existent. Aperture settings can be freely adjusted with a control ring that comes in handy when you are seeking to calibrate the type of shot depending on conditions and shooting target. 36X zoom presents a healthy still, even at max capacity. It is terrific to use on landscapes or pinpointing a specific subject in the distance.

A cool little side feature is that the camera can register up to 8 subjects in a given frame and adjust its focus accordingly. It even has the tools to prioritize adults or children you want to stand out. Intelligent scene recognition (iSCN) can detect 33 different scene types automatically for photos, and up to 44 for movies. If you are a vlogger or even casual videographer, the four modes of focusing are where you will expend a lot of your time. This is because they produce various intended outcomes, depending on your choice. For example, continuous AF tracks movement more efficiently than single-shot AF, which is better equipped for stationary subjects.

The Exmor CMOS sensor uses every ounce of the 20.2MP capacity to deliver the most compelling shots your creativity can envision, even excelling in low light areas. The 1 inch Exmor is integral to obtaining more light than other iterations, and column A/D conversion, in conjunction with dual noise reduction, work in unison to decrease additional unwanted sound.

ISO sensitivity ranges from 125 to 6400; an important component to have, as it makes any photo or video appear natural, regardless of light source. If you prefer to let the camera run the show, auto ISO will decide the proper setting for you, or you can manually expand the level of sensitivity, should it suit your fancy.

An immaculate addition to the RX100 is acquiescing creative control to both beginner and experienced photographers, albeit through different mediums. If you are just starting out and have a high ceiling with which your skills can grow, the iAuto mode directs you comfortably through onscreen prompts. Conversely, manual (P/A/S/M), aperture priority, shutter priority, and program modes can be played with by users already knowledgeable in this craft.

Though the Sony RX100 Digital Camera can adapt to any project, it produces particularly captivating quality for hobbies like vlogging or personal journals because it garners precise audio and renders footage and stills that are so clear they appear as though they have been wiped with lens cleaner. The colors are ravishing and engage any potential audience you seek to communicate with through your captured art. Overall, we found it hard not to consider it the best vlogging camera on the market today. With so many outstanding features that seem to dwarf cameras in its price range, it's hard to overlook this device.

GoPro - HERO6

What's your vlogging style? Do you mount your camera to a drone or a rugged mountain bike? Whatever your documenting style demands, your camera has to be up to the task. If your blog is focused on action packed on-the-go footage, we think working with the latest GoPro, the HERO6, may be your best choice of the year. This update on the HERO5 is worth a second and third look. Perhaps the best vlogging camera with 4k capability, this pint sized device will blow you away with its amazing specs, while its everyday functionality makes it easy to use for even the newest vlogger.

You’re looking to purchase a vlogging camera for one purpose: to capture the world with blinding speed. The HERO6 doesn't disappoint in video quality with 4K 60fps (doubling the 4k30 of the HERO5), and it’s mind bogglingly sharp. Even better, the option to change to 1080p 240fps is pretty fantastic as well. At 240 frames per second you can scrub video as slowly as you want without missing a single movement, this is industry leading stuff. Easily toggle the vlog camera between the two features as your situation dictates. The ability to add a GPS overlay to the video is something we absolutely love as well. The options are nearly endless when you connect your GoPro app to the action cam as well. Post production is necessary for just about every video blog and we found the app is a great starting point for editing your action footage.

Also don't forget that basic snapshots are possible with 12MP quality with a burst rate of 30fps. However, most vloggers love the slow-motion option at either 120fps or 240fps. It's your choice. Playing with the endless settings of the HERO6 will only result in more features discovered for any advanced, average, or beginner vlogger.

GoPro is known for its tough housings, and the HERO6 is no exception. Drop the device in 33 feet of water and it's ready to go as you fish it out of the drink. The housing also offers a user-friendly design when it comes to holding it. We found there's enough space for your fingers to wrap around the housing without photographing them at the same time. Even some of the best video cameras for vlogging are criticized for their inability to comfortably grip. With a weight of only 4 ounces, this vlog camera is by far the lightest device we have reviewed thus far. We’re happy to say it can be brought on almost any trip without any packing concerns as well.

We think one of the coolest features of this 4k vlog camera is the touchscreen. GoPro released this feature starting with the HERO5, but we found the touchscreen on the HERO6 to be much more responsive with touch zoom. The updated user interface on the two inch display makes setting changes and footage playback easier than ever. Tap and slide your way to a better video.

Remind yourself that this action cam is built with the latest processor called the GP1 chip and an updated video codec or HEVC. These features are spectacular, but your playback devices have to be up to the task as well. Older devices will show off a jumpy video instead of what you really recorded: a smooth and enticing ride through your world. Be ready to update some devices to get the most out of your video. This is simply the direction that tech is headed, and GoPro wants to be a front of the shift. As ultra high-def and OLED’s continue to take over the market, the new codec specs are likely here to stay so it’s worth updating some playback devices.

When you're ready for a rough ride, any experience vlogger knows that a gimbal is necessary. That external accessory may be obsolete in your world with the HERO6's EIS or electronic image stabilization feature. This digital marvel softens small shakes during your outings, resulting in what we think is the best image stabilization of any vlog camera on the market. It is truly phenomenal what GoPro was able to accomplish in this space. We could spend this entire vlog camera review talking about how good we think the image stabilization is, but there is still much more to talk about.

Every vlog camera usually has wind issues when it comes to audio, but the HERO6 has a trick up its sleeve. It comes with three microphones to capture all of the audio action. We’ve heard complaints that the audio doesn’t live up to the HERO4 or 5, but in our testing we found the quality of audio playback was crisp and accurate. The number of microphones and location of them cancel out most of the windy conditions. You don't see many cameras with this option today.

Remember when you had to preselect zoom types with your older GoPros? The HERO6 gives you a slider bar on the touchscreen for instant zooming. This feature alone might tempt you to upgrade your device. We recommend zooming in before you start recording, however, because you give up this option once the video starts.

Leave your connected smartphone on so that the video feeds right into your app. See the video automatically so that any alterations can be made in the field.

Bluetooth is still a reliable way to connect your smartphone and GoPro. The power draw is minimal too. The issue in the past, however, was the WiFi connectivity for video transfers. Thankfully, GoPro updated their WiFi to 5GHz, which creates a much faster transfer of data than we’re accustomed to. The only downfall is moving long clips at 4K resolution, but that would be the case with any 4K vlogging camera. There will be some slowing in these cases, but overall this is a tremendous improvement in connectivity over the HERO5.

As with any device, leaving certain features on will drain the battery. WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS features pinging out their data as you ride out the day will leave you with a dead battery quicker than you might expect. Simply pay attention to the battery's life and turn off nonessential features to get the most out of the battery.GoPro designed the HERO6 with a removable battery so take advantage of this fact. Bring an extra one along for a quick swap.

Overall, this GoPro HERO6 makes a strong case for the best vlogging camera on the market and comes very highly recommended by our team. At a very affordable price point for a high-end 4k camera, you'll notice the quality is leaps and bounds ahead of its competitors. Serious filmmakers will love the features with very few drawbacks when it comes to advanced applications. If you're a casual vlogger, the HERO6 will be perfection in your eyes. Give it a try on your next adventure. Its rugged features tempt you to take it to the limit.

Canon - PowerShot SX720 HS

Being an avid video blogger, I was constantly looking for the best ways to bring media to my audience while keeping in mind cost and quality. Years of experience with cameras helped my journey, but with the rapid rate of advancements in this technological field, it was hard to keep up with innovation. My passion for photography and art cannot be understated however, and I enjoy getting down and dirty with each new camera I come across. Because blogging is at the forefront of my personal needs, I sought out any that could improve my production value. In searching for this on the internet, I stumbled across the point-and-shoot Canon PowerShot SX720, which began my experience with this unit.

My initial interest in the PowerShot derived from the overwhelmingly positive feedback by its users.  Just about everyone knows the Canon brand, and their longevity in this space is to be admired, but I wanted to be sure if this particular model was a fit for me. Owners of the camera marveled at its compact size and abilities, but you never know for sure what you are getting into until you give it your own test run.

Upon acquiring the SX720, the first thing you notice (obviously) is its appearance. The PowerShot is a comfortably small vlog camera that is sleek and sports an elegant black finish. The reason it is a stress-free device is because it is easily travel-ready, but not so tiny it is like performing heart surgery to press the buttons. There are a plethora of settings and modes on its panel, but not to an intimidating degree. The extension of the lens is flawless, and overall the SX720's aesthetic screams luxury.

While looks are great, I was much more interested in the meat and potatoes to see if it could top our list as the best vlog camera. The PowerShot incorporates 40x optical zoom and Intelligent IS, ensuring that images snapped do not have a shaky, fuzzy after effect. Normal, Panning, Macro, and Tripod modes work to analyze the movement of the camera and correct the frame given the shooting situation for stills, and Dynamic and Powered, among other choices, steady live video and reduces 'trail' blur. We found the 20.3 megapixel CMOS sensor works seamlessly with a Digic 6 image processor and counterbalances darkness with ease to make sure even low light pictures are crisp and clear. Of particular interest to me was the capability of 1080p full HD video at 60p. We would have loved to see Canon equip this camera with 4k capability, but the 1080p performed admirably and helps keeps the price point in a very affordable range for a high end point-and-shoot video camera. Moreover, its stereo sound delivers unrivaled audio that is immersive and engaging. Delivering one of a kind picture quality with peak performance sound is absolutely critical to a good vlogging camera, so these additions provided me with much excitement. With 922,000 dots of resolution on the 3.0 inch LCD screen, capturing my stories is a breeze. Bringing fresh content to my audience is a succinct process handled by the built in Wi-Fi and NFC. It makes my transferring of video and images so second nature I hardly even think about it after filming. The 'near field communication' technology only requires a single tap to connect.

Because I use different setups and environments for my video blogs, I needed a camera that I could swiftly mount or position. This Canon is an extremely adaptable unit that can pop on a tripod in seconds, and can even conveniently remote shoot with its camera connect app. This allows me to use my tablet or smartphone to control my recordings wirelessly if it is not within arm's reach, a feature not many vlogging point-and-shoot cameras are capable of doing.

The Canon PowerShot SX720 does not have a price tag for the faint of heart, but will not burn a hole in your wallet either. Its cost is comparable to similar cameras of this ilk, and the purchasing of this device is an investment, as longevity is its goal just as much as performance. Even with excessive use of the SX720, it still delivers the output I want with no hiccups or setbacks. It is an intelligently built, carefully crafted piece of technology that provides a reliable medium to capture and record your media.

Utilizing the PowerShot is still worthwhile to me because it has allowed me to combine creativity and quality effortlessly. All the technology we use we hope will deliver the best possible version of our ideas, and the SX720 provides this in spades. Throw in the fact that its learning curve is not steep, and it easily becomes one of the best vlogging cameras available on the market today. Even with new iterations of these types of models coming out every year, I still put the SX720 to frequent use, as you cannot put a price tag on consistency.

Nikon - COOLPIX P900

One of the biggest proponents commonly echoed from users loyal to the Nikon brand is its consistency, and the COOLPIX P900 digital camera exemplifies this regularly.  Immediately a standout to this model when put side by side with the other best vlog cameras on this list is its long range capabilities.  Those however, are just the tip of the iceberg for the mean punch in quality that this intelligent little unit packs.

The COOLPIX has its standard full black paint job, and takes up a bit more real estate than other similar cameras.  This is to properly house its extending lens, which is the focal point (pun intended) of this unit's impressive features.  The vary-angle LCD display swivels to give the videographer full autonomy, and the electronic viewfinder is full of a plethora of visually sharp and pleasing colors to carefully align your subject.  The CMOS is 16MP and has a brightness adjustment of 6 levels to calibrate to your desires.

If you are a relative newcomer to vlogging, this model is more 'point and shoot' friendly than a typical DSLR vlog camera.  You can just pick it up and go much more quickly, as its menus are straight forward and less complicated.  That said, there is a wide range of tools to learn, most of them pertaining to the different types of shots or videos you can take.  This is a camera more for the 'medium' range shooters as far as experience, but can certainly be used with very little expertise in videography.

The P900's price point is not quite as high as the PowerShot, but large enough it might give some videographers pause.  It is important to note that this is not a device for generic panoramic shots, but rather for those who want to make a statement with what they capture.  It is virtually a Swiss Army knife of features, so it is wise to do your homework as to what you actually want to use it for.

In using the COOLPIX, its 'wow' factor is easily the power behind its zoom feature.  Its 2000mm is the most ever offered by Nikon COOLPIX cameras so far when it comes to its optical zoom.  To put it in 'real life' terms when you are holding it, it essentially gives you the eyesight of a hawk, particularly with its dynamic fine zoom.  Photographers will often tell you that one problem with high zoom cameras is that it enhances the screen so much you lose sight of what you were focusing on.  The P900 eliminates the problem entirely by incorporating its snap-back feature, which will quickly zoom back out so you can realign your frame.  The 166x DFZ (dynamic fine zoom) and 83x OZ (optimal zoom) can maintain its sharp image in conjunction with the dual detect optimal VR, which can conform when your photos and videos are not steady or 'clean' enough.

With two different ways to frame shots, it is a vlogger's dream as far as adaptability.  The PSAM mode dial allows more experienced shooters to seamlessly change shutter speed and aperture settings if you are in environments that require the camera to do more heavy lifting for you.  An added bonus for those that document their lives or experiences via video is that it has built-in GPS so you can map out your shots by destination and timestamps.  This is terrific showcasing your adventures on Google Maps and other similar geographical tools that can be placed on your social media, website, or YouTube channel.

Whisking your content off of the P900 is just as simple as you would hope with Nikon's NFC and wi-fi within the unit using snapbridge.  The vlog camera can also be controlled entirely through your tablet and smart devices, making remote capability a reality.  This is perfect for self-portrait taking or time sensitive shots you need to control from an additional piece of technology.

The battery life is a bonus for those long shoots we've all been on, with the ability to take roughly 350+ shots in a single charge.  Again the word consistency comes to mind with the Nikon, as the battery is reliable and gets every bit out of its juice after being plugged in.

The Nikon COOLPIX P900 lives up to its name, delivering fun, engaging video with ease.  It settles in nicely as one of the best casual vlogging cameras because it is not so expensive that it breaks the bank, and not so cheap that it offers little in the way of features.  If your vlog style is geared toward outdoor, scenic videography in particular, this model vlogging camera will deliver for you time and time again.