8 Best DSLR Cameras for Vlogging and YouTube in 2021

Long story short, DSLR cameras, despite their size, have TOP video and photo quality.

If you are going to film video blogs or make some photoshoots at a high level, these devices are superior for both activities.

With vlogging getting more attention, vloggers (especially new ones) are having a hard time trying to stand out and shine.

They need all the boost they could get, and their first logical step to fame is acquiring the best possible vlogging camera they could find to make high-quality content.

That’s a reason why we reviewed the best DSLR cameras for vlogging and video making to capture the best moments and angles imaginable.

 Best DSLR Cameras for Vlogging

1. Canon EOS-1D X Mark III – Best Professional DSLR Camera for Videos and Vlogging

First of all, this DSLR camera is among the latest, ultra-tough, hyper-fast, and high-end cameras from Canon.

It is similar to the previous models of EOS-1D, dating decades back appearance-wise. Internally, there are quite a few radical updates that Canon has added.

The EOS-1D X Mark III has bleeding-edge tech, consisting of an optical smart controller, viewfinder, CFexpress, head tracking, deep learning AF, and so much more.

Don’t let its big and bulky body fool you.

Canon has combined and mixed together with the advantages of mirrorless and DSLR cameras into one hybrid body that enables you to shoot in whatever the situation demands.

This camera is truly after the hearts of professional vloggers and photographers alike.

• Video Resolution:

Despite its small size, this DSLR is an absolute monster in terms of video resolution.

EOS-1D Mark III has high image quality capable of capturing up to 5.5K raw video footage, making it a viable and excellent choice for professional video filming and work. It also has the ability to record 4k/60p UHD and DCI movie recording content!

Its high and top-notch video resolution enables it to meet the demands and expectations of even the most captious and critical photographers and vloggers in the field.

• Stabilization: 

EOS-1D Mark III offers Electronic In-Body Stabilization specifically for movie recording. This camera is capable of 5-axis image stabilization to help you shoot your videos, meaning that it covers a wide array of movements that can help you capture stable cinematic footage.

As for taking still images or even better video quality, you might need lenses that have their own image stabilization feature.

• Screen:

The EOS-1D Mark III DSLR has a fixed touchscreen. Its rear display is 3.2 inches in size with an increased 2.1 million dots resolution, which left Mark II, with its 1.6 million dots, behind in the dust.

It doesn’t have a flip nor a tilt screen, but the high resolution and touchscreen feature does make up for it.

• Microphone jack:

Typically, the built-in movie microphone can record monaural or monophonic sound, but the EOS-1D X Mark III can also record stereo sounds.

You can enable this by connecting an external microphone with a 3.5 mm mini-plug or mini-jack into the camera IN terminal. The Directional Stereo Microphone DM-E1, which is sold separately, is highly advisable for a full magical experience.

• Weight:

This DSLR camera is lighter than its predecessor, Mark II, despite having the same dimensions. EOS-1D Mark III weighs 1.4 kg (3.17 lb), including the battery and CFexpress card, making it quite hard to carry with you on trips.

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2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – Most Popular Professional Camera for Vlogging in 2021

Canon released the EOS 5D Mark IV back in 2016, living up to its legacy as a powerhouse and leading producer of the best overall and DSLR cameras in the market.

This DSLR Canon camera has outstanding and magnificent image quality that is attained by its 30.4 Megapixel full-frame sensor.

For YouTubers, the 4K video that captures with absolute ease also helped it earn its title as the most popular professional camera fit for vlogging in 2021.

It has a DIGIC 6+ image processor for top speed delivery of high quality and resolution images, effectively handling seven frames per second in a continuous shot.

Vloggers can highly benefit from its Movie Servo AF and Dual Pixel CMOS AF features that can effectively rack focus during filming.

The body has been created and molded for ease of access, comfort, weather resistance, and durability.

• Video Resolution:

5D Mark IV offers a highly-detailed DCI 4K resolution video recording up to 30 fps at 500 Mbps. 4K video is recorded using the sensor’s central 4096 x 2160 area at a 1.74x crop to record with the ideal pixel sampling ratio of 1:1.

It can also capture a full HD 1080p at 60 fps video with the entire frame and even 720p at 120 fps for slow-motion playback.

• Stabilization:

This DSLR camera has no in-built image stabilization as part of its specs – that isn’t very helpful for YouTubers.

As a vlogger, you might need to use lenses with image stabilization features to ensure perfect captures and save yourself from blurry images and videos. You could buy it directly with 24-105 or 24-70mm lenses.

• Screen:

The 5D Mark IV DSLR follows the trend of using touchscreens. It has a 3.2-inch screen with 1.62 million dots as its rear display.

This Canon camera usually comes in as exceptionally handy during video recording. It can help you change and choose from various settings, such as tapping the screen for focus.

This camera’s screen, like EOS-1D X Mark III, is a fixed screen at the back. It cannot flip, swivel, nor tilt at any angle.

• Microphone jack:

Audio may be recorded using the monaural microphone positioned beneath the camera’s name on the front plate.

If you are looking to record the best possible sound quality, an external mic is a viable option. You can attach the external mic to the 3.5 mm mic port at the sides.

• Weight:

This camera is relatively light with a weight of 890 g or 1.96 lb, including the battery. It  is convenient for carrying around when shooting outdoors.

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3. Canon EOS R5 – Impressive All-Around DSLR Camera for Vlog Creators

Looking for an all-around player that can tick off almost every must-have feature of a DSLR camera?

The Canon EOS R5 is probably a top contender and an absolute game-changer that can tempt every videographer and vlogger out there.

The EOS R5 raises the bar in high-level video and image capturing, thanks to Canon specifically designing a new CMOS image sensor just for this new release.

This camera also has subject detection that utilizes Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF Technology, capable of the high-speed shooting of 20 fps and matching its high-speed autofocus calculations for continuous filming and shots.

EOS R5 also features an Eye Detection function, a first for Canon, effectively tracking the face, body, and even the eyes of dogs, cats, and birds with precision and speed.

This Canon camera just keeps on pushing the limits and boundaries of current Mirrorless and DSLR cameras!

• Video Resolution:

Canon manufactured EOS R5 DSLR to provide and shoot a whooping 8K/30p footage or video capture in RAW. Other resolutions, such as IPB or All-I, can be shot at 4K/120p.

This camera also gives you a choice to shoot in an oversampled 4K footage, enabling you to produce splendid and detailed results and videos as they are derived from the 8K output.

There are, of course, temperature limits. EOS R5 can shoot 8K video up to 20 minutes max and an oversampled 4K width (full-width) up to 30 minutes.

This camera does have an ‘Overheat control’ feature that reduces the pre-heat preview to decrease the heat build-up between clips.

• Stabilization:

The EOS R5 offers an interchangeable lens that includes 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilization.

This Canon’s new IBIS technology works wonders with the Image Stabilization Lens. Together, they can prove to be a powerful combination that gives birth to the highest quality of images and videos imaginable! Also, we like to use 24-105mm lenses on this camera.

• Screen:

This canon camera has a top-notch viewfinder that is paired with a vari-angle or flip screen. It is 3.15 inches in size with a 2.1 million dot touchscreen.

This vari-angle screen feature of EOS R5 comes in useful for shooting videos below or above head height. Also, the touch control implements well and has no issues or detriments that can hinder physical control.

• Microphone jack:

Located on the camera’s left side is the 3.5 mm microphone jack and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. This jack is for connecting external microphones to have a breathtaking sound quality and input on your phones while filming your videos or vlog.

It also has a stereo microphone to record movies or audio files in stereo even without an external mic.

• Weight:

This DSLR camera weighs precisely 738 grams or 1.63 lbs including the batteries, which is just the perfect and comfortable weight for videographers to carry around!

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4. Canon EOS 90D – Best Value DSLR Camera for YouTubers

This Canon camera is fast, impressive, and versatile!

The EOS 90D DSLR can deliver to almost any event, no matter whether it’s quick sporting events or just day-to-day moments. This camera will undoubtedly help you attain detailed and high-resolution videos and images, even if it’s under low-lighting for a reasonable price!

The EOS 90D features an EOS iTR AF (face detection feature) and a 45-point cross-type AF system, raising the capability of capturing the moments in high definition.

Whether you are riding on an amusement park ride or taking a video of rare wildlife, this camera can help you document your travels, vacations, and other events in full-angle view.

These features make it very valuable and one of the best DSLR cameras for making YouTube videos and vlogs.

• Video Resolution:

This camera has a higher-resolution sensor paired with exquisite raw image quality. It has 4K/30p and 1080/60p video capturing capabilities, which is in full width of the camera’s sensors.

The feature that makes EOS 90D more appealing to YouTubers is the sticky video AF that comes with eye detection, requiring little to no effort in remaining focused.

• Stabilization:

The EOS 90D does not have in-body image stabilization. Though, Canon offers two solutions to acquire a stabilized image. One is to use stabilized lenses, and the second is to use digital image stabilization.

Those proposed solutions might not reduce the image’s sharpness, but reduced vibrations are guaranteed.

• Screen:

Another feature that makes this stand out from vloggers is its flip screen. This DSLR Canon camera has a 3″ and 3:2 touch-sensitive screen that sits on the back of the camera and blends considerably well on its body lines.

The screen is capable of flipping out vertically and can rotate a full 180 degrees. You can also protect the screen by facing it inwards.

• Microphone jack:

Like the other DSLR Canon cameras on the list, this one also has a microphone jack, which means you can connect an external mic if you want improved sound quality on your vlogs and videos.

• Weight:

The EOS 90D weighs around 701 g or 1.55 lb.

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5. Canon EOS 80D – One of the Best Affordable DSLR for YouTubers

On the lookout for an affordable DSLR for vlogging?

The price of the EOS 80D ranges from $800-$1500 on Amazon! The cost varies depending on whether you are just purchasing the body or buying the whole storage or kit.

While this DSLR seems cheaper than others, it isn’t precisely left behind in the dust when it comes to features.

This Canon camera has a superb 45-point cross-type AF system, which offers top speed and highly accurate AF in any light. It also includes an intelligent viewfinder with almost 100% coverage that allows a detailed view and extensive image data.

The EOS 80D has Dual Pixel CMOS AF and an impressive 24.2 Megapixel (APS-C) CMOS Sensor, aiming to win the heart of many new Vloggers and YouTubers.

• Video Resolution:

The EOS 80D is capable of shooting in 1080p Full HD up to 60 fps when in Movie mode. It also offers MP4 Format and IPB or ALL-I compression modes with an optional embedded time code.

This model didn’t lack in the creativity department as it has various camera features like Time-lapse movie modes, HDR movies, and creative filters such as old movie, dramatic monochrome, memory, fantasy, and miniature.

This camera lacks color rendition, sharpness, and quality as opposed to other latest models, but it does still create good quality videos!

• Stabilization:

The DSLR camera doesn’t have a built-in image stabilization feature. Still, the kit does include a lens that has this technology, with a 4-stops optical image stabilization correction that can help produce an above-average quality video. Highly-recommend to check for lenses with a stabilization feature.

• Screen:

The EOS 80D has a 3-inch touchscreen with a vari-angle articulated flip design that specifically helps film awkward angles and positions. The LCD screen has 1.04 million dots resolution, including smudge-resistant coating and brightness control.

• Microphone jack:

The EOS 80D DSLR features a built-in stereo microphone that is moved to a more forward-facing position on the sides of the lens mount, compared to 70D’s top-rear position. It also has a 3.5 mm microphone jack. An external microphone is a preferable option to prevent and avoid accidental lens operation and background noise from being picked up during your shoots.

• Weight:

The exact weight of EOS 80D is 730 g (1.61 lb), including the battery.

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6. Canon EOS 7D Mark II – DSLR Camera That Never Gets Old

The EOS 7D Mark II aims to fuel your artistic passion and creative potential!

This model includes cutting-edge features and operations that meet the demands of videographers, photographers, and vloggers alike.

It can make the most challenging photography and video filming seem simple and easily achievable! It has a shooting rate that jumps ten frames per second, a feature that used to be limited only to pro-grade sports cameras.

This DSLR has a 20.2 Megapixel sensor that serves high-quality image files with spectacular clarity and breathtaking detail.

Furthermore, the EOS 7D Mark II also delivers HD movie filming with customizable Movie Servo AF choices for smooth and almost fluid-like transitions. This camera truly tests your artistic potential and opportunities with its groundbreaking features.

In general, Nikon D750 comes with a set of pro features that are a prerequisite for professional vloggers and photographers in 2021!

All in all, the camera has a large number of features and offers exceptional image and video quality.

• Video Resolution:

The EOS 7D Mark II can take full HD 1080p video footage with various frame rates, from 24 fps to 60fps, in both MP4 and MOV file formats.

This model includes dual DIGIC 6 processors that are robust enough to permit real-time video lens correction. A video function that makes this camera model more interesting is the Dual-Pixel autofocus that is not suppressed in any way.

• Stabilization:

Unfortunately, the EOS 7D Mark II DSLR does not include built-in image stabilization. This problem can be fixed by using a lens with an image stabilization feature to help you experience the full potential and capability of the model.

This camera is compatible with EF-S and EF lenses. It is now up to you which lens you would prefer to use for your own video-making and vlogging needs.

• Screen:

The screen is attached and fixed. It is not articulate, nor is it touch-enabled. It is also 3.0 inches in size and is capable of live viewing, brightness control, and more.

This LCD Monitor has a pixel of 1.04 million dots that gives you a decent quality display.

• Microphone jack:

Like the other DSLR cameras on the list, this model also has an internal microphone that captures stereo sound. Though, for better sound quality, using the 3.5 mm microphone jack by connecting an external microphone is an advisable move.

• Weight:

For the body and battery alone, this camera weighs approximately 910 g or 2.0 lb.

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7. Nikon D850 – One of the Best Nikon DSLR’s for Filmmakers

Canon isn’t the only brand that made it to this list of best DSLR cameras for YouTube and vlogging!

Nikon does have on-par DSLRs that would also make your vlogging and video filming a great experience!

Here, we introduce the Nikon D850, a DSLR with a 45.7 megapixels CMOS image sensor that enables you to capture extraordinary photos consistently.

This model also has an EXPEED 5 image-processing technology that makes high-speed vigorous and continuous video filming and vlogging. It has a speed that can almost match your vision, which is definitely perfect for capturing moments in action.

• Video Resolution:

This camera can capture astonishing and awe-inspiring 4K time-lapse shots or the comprehensively detailed 8K time-lapse with a sequence that reaches up to 9,999 full-size stills and images.

That is a new milestone when it comes to vlogging!

• Stabilization:

The Nikon D850 doesn’t have image stabilization, but many lenses do compensate for that. The Nikon 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a specifically good lens that is compatible with this camera model, and it has exceptional image stabilization perfect for vlogging and taking videos!

The Nikon D850 does, however, have Electronic Vibration Reduction, which is somewhat effective in its own way for getting proper stabilization. This VR functions in 1080p video format, which delivers desirable effects and results.

• Screen:

This model has a tilt and articulated screen that comes in useful for shooting hard-to-catch positions and angles, such as above the head or waist level.

Live viewing, Pinpoint AF, Touch AF, playback, and Touch Shutter Control are all possible with a few clicks on the screen.

• Microphone jack:

You have the choice of using the built-in microphone or connecting an external microphone to the mic jack for audio input. Though, know that in terms of mic sensitivity, the Nikon D850 has your back!

When the audio levels rise, the D850 has an automatic sound attenuator that reduces the microphone’s sensitivity to control the distortion it receives. This helps maintain smooth and clear audio recording.

• Weight

Nikon D850 falls a bit on the heavier side of this list. It weighs 1005 g or 2.22 lb, including batteries.

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8. Nikon D3500 – Best Budget DSLR Vlogging Camera in 2021

A DSLR that’s budget-friendly and won’t put a large hole in your wallet? The Nikon D3500 fits the bill!

According to our minds, Nikon D3500 is the Best budget DSLR camera for creating vlogs under $500.

This is a compact, versatile, durable, and most importantly, affordable DSLR camera that is ideal for travel vlogging.

Here are the following features that attract more DSLR buyers to choose Nikon D3500:

• Video Resolution:

This DSLR can capture video footage up to 1080p with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 and can shoot at 60, 50, 30, 25, or 24 fps. It can also shoot at 720 (1280 x 720), capable of 60 and 50 fps.

The videos taken from Nikon D3500 can be saved as QuickTime MPEG-4 files and videos with .MOV file extensions.

• Stabilization:

This camera is an entry-level DSLR, which means it lacks image stabilization. The lens that Nikon D3500 is bundled with is the AF-P 18-55mm, which has Nikon’s VR or Vibration Reduction System that can help with shooting steady videos!

• Screen:

The Nikon D3500 has a fixed screen with no tilting mechanism and is not touch-sensitive. While that is the case, the information screen is of good quality, showcasing graphical representations of the lens aperture, ISO Setting, and shutter speed.

Anyway, its LCD screen has a decent 921k-dot.

• Microphone jack:

This model has a monaural microphone that is built-in on the camera body. It does not, however, have an audio input jack for an external microphone.

A great solution to that is getting a digital or portable audio recorder with microphones. Later on, you can just include the recorded audio in your vlog or video.

• Weight:

This camera is extremely lightweight and portable, weighing at around 365 g or 0.80 lb. The Nikon D3500 is definitely an ideal DSLR camera for trips and travel YouTube videos and vlogs!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

When it comes to shopping for a DSLR, especially for vlogging, you have to ensure that the camera serves the purpose with its features.

Most of the DSLR cameras have a flip screen, mic jack and Full HD or 4K video resolution, which makes a huge difference for vlogging!

We hope that our review on the list of the TOP 8 BEST DSLR VLOGGING CAMERAS must have helped you in choosing the right DSLR for yourself and your channel!