Every new YouTuber and vlogger wants to find the best vlogging camera for a cheap price, right?
Needless to say, the choice of vlogging cameras is really wide, and prices also fluctuate quite a lot, right?
For this reason, we have created this guide while focusing on the best and cheapest vlogging cameras and what you should consider when buying a camera for YouTube videos.
Comparison of the Best Cheap Cameras for Vlogging
| Name | Mic. Jack | Flip Screen | Video Resolution | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sony ZV-1 - Editor's Choice | Yes | Yes | 4K/30p | Price |
| Yes | Yes | 4K/24p | Price | |
| Yes | Yes | 4K/30p | Price | |
| Yes | Yes | 4K/30p | Price | |
| Yes | Yes | 4K/30p | Price | |
| No | Tiltable screen | Full HD 1080p/60 | Price | |
| No | Tiltable LCD screen | Full HD 1080p/60 | Price | |
| No | Yes | Full HD 1080p/60 | Price | |
| No | No | Full HD 1080p/60 | Price | |
| Yes | Yes | Full HD 1080p/60 | Price |
10 Best Budget Vlogging Cameras
Now that you have a great guide on how to choose a good inexpensive camera, we are going to provide you with even 10 of the best cheap cameras for YouTube videos and vlogging.
Make sure to evaluate all the advantages and drawbacks of each camera according to our guide.
1. Sony ZV-1 – Best Cheap Vlogging Camera in 2024
To our mind, The Sony ZV-1 is the best cheap vlogging camera that offers amazing 4K video recordings and everything else that’s needed for vlogging and making YouTube videos.
The camera also comes with a 20.1 MP 1” Exmor RS CMOS sensor and BIONZ X Image Processor.
Boasting a portable and flip-around screen, the camera comes with a soft screen effect that makes the vlogger’s skin look flawless. Another great feature is the product showcase setting which is perfect when unboxing products.
The microphone and windscreen do an adequate job of keeping wind noise down making it an ideal camera for vloggers and YouTubers.
Design:
Vloggers will like the ZV-1’s small and lightweight body design. The vlogging camera, which weighs 294 grams, includes an easy-to-hold hand grip that allows vloggers to operate it one-handed. A huge recording button is also provided for rapid recognition.
The vlogging camera also contains connectors for an external microphone, HDMI, and a micro-USB. You can charge the camera while filming thanks to the micro-USB connections.
It comes in black and white, also has a 3.0″ LCD screen that turns on and off as you flip it out and back in.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 20.1MP
- Sensor – 1.0″-type (0.52″ x 0.35″) BSI- CMOS
- Video resolution –UHD4K (3840 x 2160) and 1920 x 1080p
- Lens – 24-70mm 2.7x Optical Zoom
- Viewfinder – n/a
- Native ISO – AUTO (125 – 12800), RAW format (80-25600)
- Shutter – AUTO (4″ – 1/2,000), Shutter Priority (30″–1/2,000)
- Dimensions – 4.15 x 2.36 x 1.71″ (105.5 x 60.0 x 43.4 mm)
- Weight – 10.37 oz (294g) with batter and recording media
- Lens Mount – n/a
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 260 shots /video recording approx. – 30 minutes
Lens:
Sony ZV-1 comes with a 24-70mm (35mm format equivalent) build lens perfect for vlogging. Also, it comes with an f/1.8-2.8 maximum aperture which is great for tight shots in product reviews.
Connectivity:
The ZV-1 comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity which enables instant transferring of shots to social networks via mobile devices. In addition, the camera is compatible with the movie Edit add-on from the imaging Edge mobile app which enables you to enhance your videos.
- Compact and super light – great when traveling
- It has a flip-out video screen
- Remarkable focus system
- Used as a webcam
- Offers 4K video recording
- The Sony Image Edge is fantastic
- The battery doesn’t last long
- Provides 4K at only 30fps
- You can’t transfer files without first turning off the camera and plugging in the cord
2. Canon M50 Mark II – Best Cheap 4K Camera for Vlogging
The Canon M50 Mark II is a good upgrade from its predecessor the M50. The camera is much smaller than a DSLR even with the standard 15-45mm lenses it comes with.
Unfortunately, the selection of available lenses is sparse. Nonetheless, it is possible to buy an adapter to utilize other Canon lenses.
When it comes to sensors, the M50 Mark II is based on the same 24.1MPAPS-C CMOS sensor as the M50 as well as DIGIC 8 image processor. This combination allows the camera to record 4K/30fps video and afford quick 10fps stills shooting at a burst.
What’s more, the M50 Mark II autofocus and detection works great making it the great camera for vloggers and YouTubers.
Design:
When it comes to design the M50 Mark II doesn’t disappoint, the 3.0” flip screen has a full var-angle design which makes one-handed shooting quick and easy for any travel or daily vlogger.
Weighing 387 grams, the camera is easy to carry even when attached to a small tripod or selfie stick.
Just note; both the body and lens are not weatherproof therefore making it easily damageable.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 24.1MP
- Sensor –APS-C (22.3 x 14.9) CMOS
- Video resolution – 4K(24p), Full HD 1920×1080 (60p), HD 720 (120p)
- Lens – (24-72mm equivalent focal length range)
- Viewfinder – EVF
- Native ISO – Photo Auto (100-51200) and Video (100-25,600)
- Shutter – 1/4000 – 30 seconds
- Dimensions – 4.6″ x 3.5″ x 2.3″ (116.3 x 88.1 x 58.7 mm)
- Weight – 13.7 oz (387g)
- Lens Mount – Canon EF-M
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 305 shots/video recording approx. – 40 minutes.
Lens:
The Canon M50 Mark II uses an EF-M lens range. Compatible with the EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM standard zoom lens and the EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM telephoto zoom lens, the camera comes with a focal length of 1.6x which is good for shooting photos and videos at a distance.
Connectivity:
Just like its predecessor, the M50 Mark II comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections as well as webcam capability. The Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC allows vloggers to share stills and video recordings to mobile devices while the EOS Webcam Utility Software enables YouTubers to live stream their content straight from the vlogging camera.
- It has great video capability
- The camera is portable and lightweight
- It is super easy to use and has a lot of great options as far as a remote control is concerned.
- Webcam, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity
- Flip out/rotating screen
- A limited number of lenses offered
- The position of the mic port prevents the fold-out LCD from tilting fully
- Doesn’t charge by USB
3. Sony ZV E10 – Great Cheap Compact Vlogging Camera
If you’re looking for a cheap compact vlogging camera, the Sony ZV-E10 is the best for you. A game changer in the vlogging world, the camera comes with a crisp 4K video with fast autofocus.
All this is possible due to the 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS Sensor and fast BIONZ X processor.
Additionally, the interchangeable lens makes this an everlasting vlogging camera with a wide array of lens options.
Pro tip: Sigma has inexpensive lenses that work perfectly with the Sony ZV-E10.
With that said, the vlogging camera does have a downside, the Image stabilization is not great but you can buy a gimbal to shoot well on the go or run your footage through catalyst browse to get stable footage.
Don’t forget to shut off the camera stabilization both Standard and Active so that the catalyst will work when you import your photos and videos.
Design:
When it comes to design, the Sony ZV-E10 construction is solid with tons of features and adjustable modes and buttons. Well assembled body, the hand grip is relatively comfortable to hold when vlogging in selfie mode.
However, it does become uncomfortable to hold with two hands when held in standard orientation, therefore, requiring a tripod. Another downer is that you can’t use the touchscreen to navigate the main menu.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 24MP
- Sensor –APS-C type (23.5 x 15.6 mm), Exmor CMOS sensor
- Video resolution – 4K UHD up to 30p, 1080p at 60fps
- Lens – 1x Optical Zoom
- Viewfinder – n/a
- Native ISO – 100 – 32000
- Shutter – 1/4000 – 30 sec
- Dimensions – 4.5″ x 2.5″ x 1.8″ (115.2 x 64.2 x 44.8 mm)
- Weight – 12.1 oz (343g)
- Lens Mount – Sony E
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 440 shots/video recording approx. – 40 minutes
Lens:
This portable camera comes a with 10-18mm f/4 1x Optical Zoom lens. Nonetheless, thanks to being an interchangeable lens camera, vloggers get to choose from a wide-angle lens that captures dynamic footage to a macro lens which enables them to capture the small details at a bigger size than the normal lenses.
Plus, there are telephoto lenses that are great for vlogging while traveling or just zooming in and out when doing your daily vlogs.
Connectivity:
Sony ZV-E10 has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity that vloggers can use to download and upload content very easily. What’s more, the camera has live-streaming capabilities. Also, it works with both UVC/UAC support and when matched with Imaging Edge Webcam, an app available for Mac and Windows devices.
- The camera has easy-to-use features
- Great image quality even at 1080p at low light
- The camera has webcam capability
- 4K 30p output with stunning picture quality
- Perfect autofocus
- There is no in-body image stabilization
- No viewfinder
4. Panasonic Lumix DC-G100 – Amazing Budget Mirrorless Vlogging Camera
As you know Panasonic is truly one of the leading innovators in video cameras and just like the previous vlogging models, the Lumix DC-G100 doesn’t disappoint.
A perfect budget mirrorless camera for the on-the-go, this model comes equipped with superb-quality 4K/30p and FHD/60p video, a quick upload feature, and creative functions.
Apart from that, the camera is equipped with a 5-Axis HYBRID I.S which combined with the Lumix G lens takes image stabilization to a whole new level. In addition, the outstanding audio quality is a plus when vlogging or doing podcasts as you don’t have to plug in an additional microphone.
Design:
The Lumix DC-G100 camera is a super compact solidly built camera weighing 352 grams without the lens and 412g with its 12-32mm kit lens. Far smaller than the Panasonic Lumix G9, this camera comes with a 3.0″ LCD monitor that has a free angle, tilt, and swivel design to support viewing from a variety of angles.
Designed for the indoors as well as outdoors, the camera can be mounted to a tripod which makes it easy to vlog or make YouTube videos for long hours.
The only gripe is the camera lacks a backward-facing dial which is found on the GM5, and also the ON/OFF switch is a bit small which poses a problem for anyone with extra-large hands.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 20.3MP
- Sensor – (117.3 x 13mm) Four-Thirds MOS
- Video resolution – 4K/30p, 1920×1080 (120p/60p/50p/30p/25p/24p), 3840×1920 (30p)
- Lens – 12-32mm Standard Zoom
- Viewfinder – Build-in Electronic (OLED)
- Native ISO – 200 to 25600
- Shutter – 1/16000 – 60 sec
- Dimensions – 4.55″ x 3.25″ x 2.13″ (115 x 82.5 x 54.2 mm)
- Weight – 12.42 oz (352 g)
- Lens Mount – Micro Four Thirds
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 270 shots/video recording approx. – 30 minutes
Lens:
The Lumix DC-G100 vlogging camera comes with a 12-32mm Standard Zoom lens and a maximum aperture range of f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. The The20.3MP Four Third CMOS sensor, along with the 2x zoom lens, provides excellent image and smooth 4K quality even on a bright sunny day.
Connectivity:
The Lumix DC-G100 camera comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections. Boasting seamless file transfer, the camera has a Send Images button on the top plate that enables vloggers and YouTubers to automatically send their photos and videos to their linked smartphones or tablets.
- The camera is user-friendly, fast, and has a responsive menu
- Effective Hybrid 5-axis stabilization
- Great onboard mics as well as impressive audio tracking
- Compact and lightweight
- Wide range of lens options
- Lacks 4K/60p
- Does not have Sensor-Shift IBIS, only E-stabilization
- The camera only charges when off so you can’t film and charge at the same time
5. Canon G7 X Mark III – All-Purpose Budget Point and Shoot Camera for Vlogging
The G7 x Mark III is another camera from the Canon family. An all-purpose camera, the Mark III comes with tons of features that are perfect for vlogging and other content creation.
For starters, the camera has a 3-inch tilting touchscreen that enables vloggers to work with different angles and a built-in microphone that produces clear sound while recording indoors and outdoors.
Other than that, the camera comes with 4K video capability, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a rechargeable battery. The video recording only lasts for 40 minutes thus needing extra batteries, especially when shooting outdoors.
Do note, the camera has some minor issues like the autofocus which isn’t that great, it’s prone to overheat (4K video recording) and also it lacks a viewfinder.
Design:
Perfectly put together, the G7 x Mark III has a pretty solid feeling in the hand, a nice weight, and the dials and buttons are smooth to operate.
The camera comes with a 1-inch 20.2-megapixel sensor that provides good clarity and sharpness for a small camera.
Aside from that, it has an LCD screen that folds out making it easier to vlog. You can still use the touch-screen to adjust the settings. Also, it’s nice for YouTubers who want to see a live preview while recording videos as well.
Specifications:
- Resolution– 20.1MP
- Sensor– 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm) type stacked CMOS
- Video resolution– 4K(30p), 1920×1080 (/30p/60p/120p), 1280 x 720 (60p)
- Lens– 4.2x Optical Zoom (35 mm equivalent: 24-100mm)
- Viewfinder– n/a
- Native ISO– Auto 125 to 12800
- Shutter– 1/25600 – 30 sec
- Dimensions– 4.13″ x 2.4″ x 1.63″ (105 x 60.9 x 41.1 mm)
- Weight– 10.72 oz (304 g)
- Lens Mount– Micro Four Thirds
- Autofocus– Yes
- Battery life– 320 shots/video recording approx. – 40 minutes
Lens:
The G7 x Mark III camera has a 4.2x optical zoom lens with a range of 24-100 mm f/1.8-2.8, which is appropriate for everyday use and vlogging.
It also includes an Optimal Image Stabilizer, compensating for movement by adjusting the lens.
Connectivity:
Like other G7 models, the Mark III comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The good news is that the Canon camera app is available for both IOS & Android users and allows you to directly transfer photos and videos to your smartphone.
Other than that, you can connect the camera to your laptop via the USB-C connection and browse your videos through Windows Explorer.
- Super compatible size and easy-to-use settings
- Great in-build stabilization
- Tilting LCD touchscreen
- Amazing Stereo mic audio
- The battery doesn’t last long when shooting videos
6. Sony Alpha a6000 – Best Cheap High Resolution Camera for Beginner Vloggers
Looking for a high-resolution beginner camera? The Sony Alpha a6000 will not disappoint. Packed with great features and specs for vloggers, this camera has faster autofocus and also comes with a viewfinder which is lacking in the a5000.
A small compact vlogging camera, boasts great video quality, auto and manual functions, tilt screen although not a touchscreen. Also, it is water resistant which is useful in case it drizzles when video shooting.
Moreover, it is an excellent camera for travel and everyday vlogging.
The a6000 is able to record 1080p video @24, 30 and 60fps. However, it doesn’t shoot 4K and also lacks a microphone and headphone port. All this might be a letdown to many vloggers and YouTubers.
But hey, being an 8-year-old camera, we do understand why it lacks some of these features.
Design:
Available in three colors, black, silver, and graphite, the a6000 is well-built and sturdy. Equipped with a lot of customizable dials and buttons, the camera’s rubber grip is easy to hold either one handed or with both hands.
The camera also features a tilting LCD screen which is very useful when taking photos or video recordings. Unfortunately, the LCD is not a touchscreen which is a let-down for novice vloggers.
Keep in mind, though it is not a waterproof camera, it is good enough to handle everyday use.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 24.3MP
- Sensor – 23.5 x 15.6 mm (APS-C) CMOS
- Video resolution –1920×1080(60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p,25p), 640 x 480 (30p,25p)
- Lens – 1x Optical Zoom
- Viewfinder – EVF and LCD
- Native ISO – 100 – 25,600
- Shutter – 1/4000 – 30 sec
- Dimensions – 4.72″ x 2.63″ x 1.78″ (119.89 x 66.8 x 45.21 mm)
- Weight – 12.13 oz (344 g)
- Lens Mount – Sony E
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 360 shots/video recording approx. – 40 minutes
Lens:
The Sony Alpha a6000 comes with a 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens that is perfect for vlogging.
In addition, if you purchase the a6000 camera body solely, you will have access to a huge selection of Sony E-mount lenses.
Remember that the large lens will make the camera appear heavier, but this is a little price to pay for amazing photographs or video footage for your YouTube channel.
Connectivity:
The Sony Alpha a6000 comes with Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity. Another option is the Imaging Edge Mobile app that allows vloggers to easily share both photos and videos easily to their smart devices.
As for the wired connection, the a6000 has an in-built HDMI and a Micro USB port for image/video transfers.
- Compact size with top notch-built body
- It comes with Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
- It comes with Full HD 1080p/60 video recording and amazing picture quality
- Great autofocus when video shooting as well as utilizes Sony’s Steady Shot nicely
- Easy-to-use settings
- No touchscreen
- Doesn’t have an audio jack
- WiFi transfer to a smartphone only gives you a compressed JPEG of less than 2MP
7. Sony DSCHX80/B – Excellent Cheap Pocket Camera for Vlogging
The HX80/B camera is the affordable version of the Sony HX90V. If you have been looking for a great and cheap camera for vlogging, the HX80/B could be the right one.
You would be amazed at the Full HD 1080/60 quality that this small camera provides. Apart from good video quality, it easily fits into your pocket!
The HX80/B camera comes with a 30x zoom lens and has an electronic viewfinder. It is the world’s smallest camera with a 30x optical zoom lens and EVF. How cool is that?
The Sony HX80/B camera comes with an 18.2MP BSI CMOS sensor and provides Full HD 1080p/60 quality. Besides the EVF, the camera comes with a tilting LCD screen, which is a super feature for vloggers!
Design:
As we mentioned earlier, the HX80/B looks very similar to the Sony HX90V camera. The only notable difference between these devices is that the HX80/B camera doesn’t have a control ring that goes around the lens.
The dimensions of the camera are small and are only 4.02 x 2.29 x 1.40″ (102 x 58 x 36 mm). It would be easy to hold it as it weighs only 8.6 oz. (245g). The HX80/B camera has a simple design and comes with a 3″ tiltable LCD screen.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 18.2MP
- Sensor – 1/2.3 inch CMOS
- Video resolution – 1920×1080 (60p/60i/30p/24p), 1280×720 (30p)
- Lens – 30x Optical Zoom
- Viewfinder – EVF and LCD
- Native ISO – 80 – 3200
- Shutter – 1/2000 – 30 sec
- Dimensions – 4.0″ x 2.3″ x 1.4″(102 x 58 x 36 mm)
- Weight – 8.6 oz (245 g)
- Lens Mount – n/a
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 390 shots/video recording approx. – 40 minutes.
Lens:
The Sony HX80/B camera comes with a 4.1-123mm 30x Optical Zoom lens. The maximum aperture range of these lenses is f/3.5-6.4. The 18.2MP Exmor R CMOS sensor, along with the 30x zoom lens, provides excellent image and video quality.
Connectivity:
The Sony HX80/B camera comes with Wi-Fi and NFC connections. Also, you can download the PlayMemories Mobile app to control your camera and files easily.
- Full HD 1080p/60 video recording
- 3″ tiltable LCD that makes the device fully suitable for vlogging
- The camera comes with easy-to-use settings and is suitable for beginners
- The Sony HX80/B is relatively cheap compared to the quality that it delivers
- Compact size
- No 4K quality
- Small sensor size
8. Canon PowerShot SX50 HS – Best Cheap Entry-Level DSLR Vlogging Camera
As we mentioned before, you don’t have to purchase a new device when looking for a cheap camera for vlogging.
It depends on your budget, you could buy an already used or brand new Canon PowerShot SX50 camera, but the result will be the same – you will have a device that has everything for a YouTuber.
First of all, it comes with a 50x Super-Zoom lens combined with a 12MP back-illuminated sensor. Also, the PowerShot SX50 offers a DIGIC 5 processor, a 4.5-stop image stabilizer with Intelligent IS technology.
Here’s the deal:
This semi-professional Canon camera can shoot Full 1080p HD videos and supports 12-bit RAW images.
Design:
Compared to the cameras that are listed above, the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS has a bulky design that is not smaller than the entry-level SLR camera.
It comes with a grip for secure handling and operating. Further, you will find a shutter button on a forward-sloping angle. On the back of the device, you will see a 2.8″ vari-angle LCD screen.
It is not a small and compatible pocket camera like previous models. However, it looks like a professional camera for vlogging which is comfortable to use.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 12.1MP
- Sensor – 1/2.3 inch (6.2mm x 4.6mm)
- Video resolution – up to (Full HD) 1920 x 1080/60p
- Lens – 50.00x zoom (24-1,200mm eq.)
- Viewfinder – EVF and LCD
- Native ISO – 80 – 6400
- Shutter – 1/2000 – 15 sec
- Dimensions – 4.8 x 3.4 x 4.2″ (123 x 87 x 106 mm)
- Weight – 21.3 oz (603 g)
- Lens Mount – n/a
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 315 shots / video recording approx. – 40 minutes.
Lens:
This digital camera comes with a 50x Optical Zoom lens combined with a 12.1MP CMOS sensor. The Canon PowerShot SX50 provides a stunning image and Full HD recording quality.
Connectivity:
Unfortunately, the Canon PowerShot SX50 doesn’t have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC connectivity. This would be one of the most significant drawbacks of this camera.
On the other hand, you can connect the camera to a computer using a USB (2.0 High-speed) cable. The jack can be used for data transfer and video/stereo output. Also, there is a smaller MINI HDMI port for a remote jack.
- The camera has a 50x Optical Zoom lens that allows you to extremely zoom while shooting
- Excellent image and recording quality for the price that it comes with
- 8″ vari-angle LCD screen that makes the camera suitable for vlogging
- Improved image stabilization and Zoom-Framing feature
- The PowerShot SX50 camera can shoot RAW Full 1080p HD video
- AutoFocus could be better in low-lighting performance
- Lower image quality at ISO 800
- Battery life could be better
- No Wi-Fi, NFC or Bluetooth connection
9. Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II – Great Tigh Budget Camera for YouTube
The Canon PowerShot G9 Mark II stands for an ultra-compact camera. Also, it has a larger-than-average 1″ CMOS sensor that is suitable for an entry-level user.
The PowerShot G9 Mark II has dinky proportions that deliver superior image and video quality thanks to the 20.1MP 1″ CMOS sensor and DIGIC 7 processor.
Moreover, the camera controls are easy-to-use and straightforward, so if you are a beginner in vlogging, this device will be more than perfect!
Here’s the kicker:
The biggest drawback of this camera is that it doesn’t have a flip screen. Needless to say, this feature helps vloggers a lot. Anyway, if you are used to filming yourself without seeing yourself – this device could be the best inexpensive vlogging camera.
Design:
When talking about the design of the G9 Mark II camera, it measures only 3.86 x 2.28 x 1.22″ (98 x 58 x 31 mm). This means that it will easily slide into any pocket. Also, you can notice that the camera is relatively slim.
It has two different color selections: you can choose from either black or silver designs. Both of them have a rubberized grip and a thumb rest for safe camera handling.
However, the camera doesn’t have a built-in electronic viewfinder. It also means that the camera is clutter-free. You can find a small pop-up flash, a few buttons to switch and navigate the settings.
Again, it doesn’t have a flip screen and that is the biggest drawback for that type of camera.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 20.1MP
- Sensor – 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm) BSI-CMOS
- Video resolution – up to (Full HD) 1920 x 1080/60p
- Lens – 24-84mm 3x Optical Zoom
- Viewfinder – EVF and LCD
- Native ISO – Auto, 125-12800
- Shutter – 1/2000 sec – 30 sec
- Dimensions – 3.86 x 2.28 x 1.22″ (98 x 58 x 31 mm)
- Weight – 0.45 lb / 7.27 oz (206 g)
- Lens Mount – n/a
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 235 shots / video recording approx. – 40 minutes.
Lens:
The Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II comes with a 3x Optical Zoom lens combined with 20.1MP CMOS sensor. Thanks to this combo, you can have Full HD video recording and RAW image quality.
Connectivity:
The Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II offers a Wi-Fi connection feature. Once you have connected your smartphone and camera, you can download a free Camera Window app and transfer the data or control your camera from the phone.
Also, you can use a Bluetooth connection with any other smart device. This allows you to transfer your images or videos or share your files even when the camera is turned off.
- Compatible size and easy-to-use settings
- Large 1″ sensor and perfect image quality
- The camera comes with great connectivity options
- At first, the LCD touchscreen could be challenging to navigate
- Doesn’t have a flip screen
10. Canon VIXIA HF R800 – Best Cheap Camcorder for YouTube Vlogging
The Canon VIXIA HF R800 is the only camcorder on this list that we could recommend buying for low-budget video creators.
It is a compact and capable camcorder that fully suits your vlogging needs. Whether you are recording a travel vlog or filming a home video, the 57x Advanced Zoom lens compared with Optical Image Stabilization keeps your footage steady, clean and clear.
Although this camcorder is equipped with a 3.28MP Full HD CMOS image sensor, as a result, it provides 1920 x 1080 resolution for Full HD video.
Here’s the deal:
Even in low lighting conditions, the video quality of this device is excellent.
Design:
In comparison with a lot of camcorders we have ever used – the Canon VIXIA HF R800 Camcorder does have one of the most comfortable designs for video creators.
Anyway, there are different opinions, some people say that the design looks old-fashioned. On the other hand, retro is trending right now, isn’t it?
However, navigation is easy thanks to the LCD display that rotates and has touch controls. It is a pretty basic camcorder that provides essential specifications for YouTubers.
Specifications:
- Resolution – 3.28MP
- Sensor – 1-Chip 1/4.85″ CMOS
- Video resolution – (Full HD) 1920 x 1080/60p
- Lens – 32x Optical Zoom and 57x Advanced Zoom
- Viewfinder – n/a
- Dimensions – 2.1 x 2.3 x 4.6″ (53.0 x 58.0 x 116.0 mm)
- Weight – 8.29 oz (235 g)
- Lens Mount – n/a
- Autofocus – Yes
- Battery life – 2 hours of recording
Lens:
The 57x Advanced Zoom lens allows you to shoot dynamic videos. It is not the highest quality, but for starters, it would be an excellent start. The Canon VIXIA HF R800 camcorder lens is great for manual mode shooting. The camcorder also offers variable zoom speeds with 3 fixed rates and 15 levels.
Connectivity:
You can use this camcorder with the Camera Window application on your computer. This app makes it easy to transfer files. Unfortunately, there is no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection available.
- The Zoom Framing feature allows keeping moving objects in focus
- Decent video quality for vlogging starter
- Comfortable design
- Flip screen feature
- No Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections
Is it Possible to Buy a Cheap Camera for Vlogging?
A vlogging camera doesn’t have to be expensive, well, at least not at the beginning of your vlogging career. Mainly if you are not used to filming and don’t really have the best skills, it would be a great choice to buy a cheap camera. In this way, you can experiment and learn how to vlog without spending all of your budget.
Besides, a lot of people imagine that buying a cheap device will deliver lousy quality. Well, let me tell you that sometimes it is a complete lie, and you can find a great vlogging camera for even under $300!
You only have to search for the main factors that you will be looking for in a camera. About a few of them we will be talking about later in this guide.
Here’s the deal:
When you are looking for a budget camera for vlogging, it is useful to know what kind of quality you are looking for. Of course, there are plenty of inadequate quality devices that will break down after first use.
However, we have done some tests and will give you the best quality at a reasonable price. As a result, we are submitting the fact that it is possible to buy a cheap camera for vlogging.
How to Buy the Best Cheap Vlogging Camera? Buyer’s Guide
A lot of successful vloggers have proven that everyone could find a camera that will work correctly and will not rip your pocket.
Now:
Before you search for a cheap camera for YouTube videos, evaluate these specs before making a purchase.
Video Quality
Having more megapixels in your camera doesn’t always mean that you will have better photo and video footage quality. This is especially important to know if you are looking to buy a cheap pocket camera for vlogging.
So if you are deciding between a 16MP and 12MP camera, don’t let extra megapixel count influence you. It is not a guarantee that buying a 16MP will get you better quality.
What you might be looking for is what kind of image sensor a camera is using.
Most of the point-and-shoot sensors are great to film in good lighting. If you are going to shoot in low light, you’ll want a vlogging camera with a BSI (backside-illuminated) CMOS sensor.
This type of CMOS sensor usually comes with a slightly higher price, but it can make a big difference. Also, keep in mind that CMOS usually means a Full HD video too.
For a new vlogger, having a Full HD CMOS sensor is more important than having a higher pixel count.
To summarize, a good cheap camera for vlogging always needs to have Full HD (1080/30 or 1080/60) quality.
Sound Quality
You will be talking a lot while vlogging, so you need to have a device that delivers great sound quality. It definitely adds a more professional feel to your videos.
It is accepted that sometimes a built-in microphone that your camera has is not that good. This is why you should look for a microphone input in your device to connect any additional microphones and improve the sound quality.
We have a whole article about the best microphones for YouTube vlogging, so be sure to check that out. Having an external microphone that delivers high sound quality is useful. In this way, you can have great both video and sound quality.
Camera’s Size
If you look at other YouTube vloggers, you might see that there are a variety of cameras and sizes that they are using.
Experienced YouTuber vloggers are using bulky DSLR cameras that are not super comfortable for beginners.
However, in the beginning, you might want to try and use a smaller device. Of course, if you will find a great cheap camera for vlogging with excellent audio and video quality, the size is not that important. We are saying that having a smaller device is just more comfortable. Especially if you are looking for a traveling camera.
Used Cameras
A lot of people get turned off when speaking about used cameras. However, there are many forms of used cameras – some of them are hardly ever used, and some of them have seen better days.
First of all, before buying any used camera, you should check the seller’s reviews. Generally speaking, lean towards a reputable seller.
If you are looking for the best and cheapest camera for vlogging at the same time, purchasing a used device could be smart if only take a few precautions.
Summing-Up
Choosing the best budget camera for YouTube vlogging doesn’t have to be a tricky thing. Once you have decided what you are looking for in a camera, it is way easier to navigate through all the solutions out there.
Also, don’t forget that you can buy a used camera that has a lot of great reviews and still functions like new. This could save you a lot of money. Just remember to read about the seller and ask as many questions as you want.
Moreover, if you are really searching for a budget camera, don’t forget to put into consideration smartphones for vlogging. Most smartphones could handle the same video quality as a cheap vlogging camera.
Glen Beker
I am Glen and I’m a 100% tech-addicted guy, Blogger, Video Editor and Entrepreneur. I spent a lot of my time learning how to properly edit videos, I've tested a lot of vlogging equipment and now with my team, I share all these tips with you.
