If you’re looking for a vlogging camera, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re just starting out or already have some experience, there’s a camera that fits your style and your budget.
Below, you’ll find top picks for every price range, from phones and beginner-friendly gear to pro-level options. You’ll also get simple tips to help you choose the right camera for your vlogs, no matter what kind of content you want to create.
A Quick Introduction to Vlogging
Vlogging is short for “video blogging.” Instead of writing in a blog, you record videos and share them online. If you’ve ever watched someone talk about their day, show how to cook a meal, or share travel tips on YouTube or TikTok, you’ve seen a vlog.
Vlogging lets you connect with others by showing your life, your thoughts, or something you love to do. You don’t need to be a pro or have fancy gear to start. Many people begin with just their phone. What matters most is your story and how you share it.
If you do want to try a camera, there are great options for every budget. Sony makes some popular vlogging cameras like the ZV series (around $500 to $800) for beginners and the Cinema Line (starting at about $1,800 and up) for more advanced creators.
Canon’s PowerShot and EOS M cameras are also good choices, usually priced between $400 and $900, giving you clear video and easy controls. If you’re looking for something small and strong, GoPro cameras (typically $300 to $500) are perfect for action shots and filming on the go.
You can start simple and grow as you learn. Whether you’re talking to the camera from your bedroom, filming a trip, or making how-to videos, vlogging gives you a way to express yourself and build an audience. It’s fun, personal, and anyone can try it, including you!
Styles of Vlogging
There are many different styles of vlogging, and each one needs a slightly different setup. The kind of videos you make will help you choose the right camera.
Let’s look at a few popular styles and the tools people use to create them.
1. Daily or Lifestyle Vlogging
This style is all about showing your everyday life. You might film yourself at home, running errands, or just talking to the camera about your thoughts. A light and easy-to-carry camera is best for this.
Good cameras for this style:
- Sony ZV-1 – Small, simple to use, and has great autofocus (around $700).
- Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III – Popular with many lifestyle vloggers (around $750).
- Smartphones – Many people use their iPhones or Android phones to start (pricing varies across brands).
Example: One of our favorite vloggers, Casey Neistat, made this style popular. He mixes daily life with travel and storytelling. Neistat started 368, a place where creators can work and share ideas together.
2. Travel Vlogging
Travel vloggers share their adventures from around the world. Since you’ll be on the move, you want something compact, tough, and great in different lighting.
Good cameras for this style:
- GoPro HERO12 – Great for action shots and underwater filming (between $400–$500).
- Sony ZV-E10 – A lightweight mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses (around $800 with lens).
- DJI Osmo Pocket 3 – Small and steady, perfect for walking tours (around $500).
Example: A well-known travel vlogger who uses a style like this is Kara and Nate. They often film their adventures with compact and versatile cameras, including GoPros, as stated on their website as part of their travel vlogging gear setup.
3. Tech or Tutorial Vlogging
This is when you review products, teach skills, or do “how-to” videos. You usually film indoors and need clear video and good audio.
Good cameras for this style:
- Sony Alpha a6400 – Offers sharp video and works well with extra lights and mics (around $900 body only).
- Webcams – If you’re filming at your desk, a good webcam like the Logitech Brio (around $200) can work.
Example: Marques Brownlee (MKBHD), a popular tech YouTuber, uses this type of style. He often films product reviews and tutorials, focusing on clear video and great sound to make his tech videos easy to follow and professional.
4. Fitness or Action Vlogging
This style shows workouts, outdoor activities, or sports. You’ll need a strong camera that can handle movement and sometimes rough conditions.
Good cameras for this style:
- GoPro HERO12 – Durable, waterproof, and steady for action shots.
- FX3A – A powerful Sony full-frame Cinema Line camera made for intermediate to advanced creators, great for professional-quality video and great low-light shooting.
- iPhone 15 Pro – Has amazing video quality and can handle fitness content well (price starts at $999).
Example: Chloe Ting is a fitness vlogger known for her workout videos. She often films with high-quality cameras and uses tools to capture both indoor workouts and outdoor fitness content clearly and smoothly.
5. Sit-Down or Talking-Head Vlogging
This is when you talk straight to the camera, often in a quiet room. The focus is on your message, so clear video and sound are most important.
Good cameras for this style:
- Sony ZV-E10 or ZV-1 – Both are perfect for this and easy to use.
- Canon EOS M50 Mark II – Great image and audio quality for sit-down setups (over $800 with lens).
Example: A well-known vlogger who uses the sit-down or talking-head style is Michelle Choi. Her “Living Alone Diaries” often feature calm, direct-to-camera moments where she uses mirrorless cameras like the Canon EOS M50 Mark II.
No matter your style, the best camera is the one that fits your needs and helps you tell your story. Start with what you can afford and upgrade as you grow!
What Is the Right Camera for Your Vlogging Style?
When choosing a camera, it comes down to what you want to film. Ask yourself a few simple questions to help narrow it down:
- Where will you vlog?
Are you filming at home, in a studio, or while traveling? If you move around a lot, go for something small and tough like a GoPro. If you stay indoors, you might want a camera with great video and sound, like Sony’s Cinema Line series or the Canon EOS M50 Mark II. - What kind of content will you make?
Will you talk straight to the camera, review tech, film workouts, or explore the outdoors? Each style works better with certain cameras. For example, action vlogs need something steady and strong, while sit-down vlogs need clear video and audio. - What’s your budget?
You don’t need to spend a lot. Even your phone can work well when you’re just getting started. But if you’re ready to invest, set a price range. There are good cameras under $500, and great ones start around $700–$1,000. - Do you need extras?
Will you use a microphone, tripod, or lights? Some cameras work better with these extras than others. Make sure the camera you choose has the ports or features to support your setup.
Once you answer these questions, it’ll be easier to find the right vlogging camera for you. Just remember, how you tell your story matters more than the gear.
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