Looking for the best vlogging camera you can buy in 2021? Whether you’re launching a new YouTube channel or creating content for your established Instagram audience, the finest vlogging cameras cover a whole spectrum of shapes, sizes and spec sheets. (Looking for the best YouTube camera instead? Check out our separate guide on that).
From compact yet capable action cameras to comprehensive mirrorless flagships, we’ve tested all of the best vlogging cameras to help you find the right one for your needs and budget.
Vlogging is more accessible today than ever, with cameras available to suit every skill level and price bracket. The right vlogging camera for you will offer usability and versatility to match your expectations, abilities and shooting style, while still delivering excellent video results.
That said, there are certain attributes that every good vlogging camera should have. The best vlogging cameras in 2021 are small enough to take anywhere, yet still capable of capturing sharp, smooth footage in a range of different conditions. And most will also offer excellent connectivity, so you can quickly edit and share your footage with those who want to see it.
Other features to consider will depend on your vlogging genre. Those who want to walk-and-talk will benefit from a flip-up screen for easy framing, as well as excellent image stabilization and an external microphone input. If you plan to shoot a lot of b-roll footage, on the other hand, a camera with good handling and a big sensor should help you capture excellent video in a range of conditions. And for those with more adventurous intentions, a rugged action camera – like the GoPro Hero9 Black – is a good idea.
Size also matters. Minuscule cameras like the Insta360 Go 2 are the obvious choice for quick, off-the-cuff vlogs, but they generally offer less creative control than a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses. Or if you’re happy with the versatility of built-in zoom, something like the Sony ZV-1 represents an excellent middle ground: a premium compact with a 1-inch sensor, it shoots excellent 4K video yet still fits comfortably in your pocket.
Our outright pick for the best vlogging camera is currently the Fujifilm X-S10. With a flexible set of 4K video specs, as well as in-body image stabilization and a vari-angle screen, it’s a fantastic all-rounder that will help you create fantastic video content – as well as superb stills, if you need them.
But that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily the best vlogging camera for your specific requirements. The buying guide below features a whole range of recommendations from our in-depth testing. Read to the end and you’ll find something in the list to suit every kind of vlogger.
Best vlogging cameras in 2021:
Arguably the best all-round mirrorless camera at this price point, the Fujifilm X-S10 is adept at lots of different types of shooting and subject. It’s a great vlogging camera, but if you’re somebody who also wants to shoot stills to supplement your video content, then it’s a great choice too. Inside the X-S10 is the tried-and-tested combination of a 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4, which we’ve already seen in the Fujifilm X-T4, but it also has the ability to record uncropped 4K/30p video.
For vloggers, there’s plenty of other video-friendly features to tempt you, too. For example, if you’re planning to do a lot of handheld video recording, the in-body image stabilization system (IBIS) is a real bonus. You’ve also got other useful features such as Full HD at up to 240p for a 10x slow motion effect, F-Log recording, the option to output 4:2:2 10-bit video too. All of that being in a small(isn) and light system makes it the ideal choice for vloggers on the go.
On top of all of that you’ve also got retro styling, a great, comfortable grip and a vari-angle screen that you can flip round to face you – perfect for framing yourself. It’s also available at a pretty wallet-friendly price, especially considering all the features you get for your cash.
- Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-S10 review
For a long time, the Canon G7 X Mark III was our favorite compact vlogging camera, but it's just been knocked off its perch by the excellent Sony ZV-1. By combining all of the best bits of Sony's RX100 series (for example, the RX100 VII's microphone port and autofocus, plus the RX100 V's bright 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens) the ZV-1 really nails what most people want from a small vlogging camera.
Sony's latest Real-time tracking and Eye AF are the best around and the ZV-1 also has a huge amount of depth for a compact camera, including a built-in ND filter and profiles like S-Log2 for those who want to embrace color grading. We still think the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III's stabilization and image quality are better still, but you won't find a finer pocket vlogging camera than the Sony ZV-1.
- Read our in-depth Sony ZV-1 review
We were big fans of the original DJI Osmo Pocket, but this sequel fixes a lot of its limitations and makes it the best compact option around for solo filmmakers. The Sony ZV-1 (above) trumps it for outright video quality, but if you tend to shoot a lot of walk-and-talk style clips to camera, then the Pocket 2's combination of a three-axis gimbal and solid face-tracking could make it more appealing.
Compared to the Osmo Pocket (which remains on sale as a more affordable alternative), the DJI Pocket 2 brings a new larger sensor, a brighter lens, improved microphones and wider field of view, which means you don't have to hold it out at arm's length when talking to camera.
Plonk it down on a tripod base or surface, and it'll turn to keep you in shot as you walk around in front of it. Despite that larger sensor, the Pocket 2 still isn't the ideal camera for low light situations or high contrast scenes, but it's a very nice upgrade on using your phone in a gimbal and the improved four-mic audio setup means you get some very decent sound quality to match.
- Read our in-depth DJI Pocket 2 review
Don’t be fooled by the retro shell: the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a top-spec vlogging camera, offering the ultimate combo of solid image quality, lightweight build and a comprehensive feature set. The hand-grip could be bigger, but the polycarbonate construction shaves 50g off the weight of its metal-bodied predecessor, making it a camera you can comfortably hold all day. The 20.4MP Four Thirds sensor – shared with the pro-grade E-M1 Mark II – delivers reliable continuous tracking thanks to on-chip phase detection autofocus, while handheld footage is usually super smooth, courtesy of class-leading image stabilization.
The option to shoot Cinema 4K at 24fps and a 237Mbps bit-rate is seriously impressive, while regular 4K footage at 30fps is routinely excellent, with lovely color rendition and good detail. Full HD at up to 120fps completes a comprehensive video offering. The vari-angle touchscreen makes framing a cinch, too, while the healthy Olympus lens catalogue opens up plenty of creative avenues. There’s no headphone jack, which will irk some videographers, but that sought-after external microphone port is there. Sure, it’s a bit expensive, but as a complete vlogging package it’s tough to beat.
- Read our in-depth Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III review
Sony’s Alpha cameras have long been popular with vloggers, and the A6400 is no exception. 4K is a given, while support for S-log3 and S-log2 should please post-producers. There’s 4K HDR (HLG) for instant playback and Sony’s Imaging Edge Mobile app makes it possible to transfer video to your smartphone. Front-on framing is straightforward, too, thanks to a flip-up 16:9 touchscreen, while the A6400’s advanced autofocus system serves up superb subject tracking.
Port options, though, will put some vloggers off: as with the 6300 before it, there’s a microphone input but no headphone socket on the A6400. Many won’t monitor audio as they record, but it’s worth noting if interviews are your thing. There’s no in-body image stabilization either, and many of Sony’s prime lenses don’t feature it – not a problem if you use a tripod or go for that handheld aesthetic.
- Read our in-depth Sony A6400 review
Fujifilm’s X-T200 is an attractive entry-level camera with plenty to offer for vloggers. Featuring the familiar retro styling of the X-series, the X-T200 is equipped with a 24.2MP APS-C sensor that captures uncropped 4K video at 30p by ‘downsampling’ from 6K footage. The results are impressively detailed and notably more dynamic than the camera’s 1080p efforts. It's a slight shame that digital image stabilization only works in Full HD, but use a lens with built-in IS and you won't miss it too much.
While the X-T200 can capture 1080p footage at up to 120fps, the new HDR video mode (which combines multiple frames to enhance dynamic range) is only offered up to 60fps. Despite these small quibbles, the X-T200 is brilliant to shoot with. The 3.5-inch vari-angle touchscreen is fantastically sharp and makes framing a joy, while a 3.5mm mini stereo input and USB-C port add welcome versatility. It’s a shame that subject tracking can’t be used for video, but the X-T200 is a versatile and capable vlogging option all the same and one of the best at its price.
- Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T200 review
It's a shame Canon didn't make the EOS M50 Mark II a bigger update to its EOS M50 predecessor, but it remains a good 1080p video option for anyone who's starting out on their vlogging journey. The main updates it brings are Eye AF for stills and video, which works well for an entry-level model, and the option of shooting vertical video for the likes of Instagram.
The main drawback of the EOS M50 Mark II is its heavy 1.56x crop on 4K video, which it inherits from its predecessor. This crop increases to a massive 1.75x if you turn on digital image stabilization – so if shooting 4K video is your main priority, we'd recommend going for the Canon EOS M6 Mark II instead (see further down). But if you're happy with shooting 1080p video, then the M50 Mark II remains a fine option, thanks to its combination of a large 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor, vari-angle touchscreen, microphone input and that compact form factor.
- Read our in-depth Canon EOS M50 Mark II review
If video quality is your priority, then it's hard to beat the Fujifilm X-T4 as a vlogging all-rounder. Sure, some full-frame cameras can still edge it for dynamic range and high ISO performance, but it's not a huge gap and the X-T4 offers a smaller overall setup that's ideal for travel. One of the best hybrid shooters around, the X-T4 brings significant upgrades on the X-T3 that include in-body image stabilization (IBIS), a bigger battery and improved autofocus. The latter is quick and reliable for both stills and video, though you'll preferably want to use it with some of Fujifilm's more recent glass, like the XF16-80mm f4 R OIS, for the best results. With a microphone input, front-facing screen, weather-sealing and the ability to shoot Cinema 4K videos up to 60fps, the X-T4 is a great all-round vlogging option for those who want a camera that can take care of both their stills and video needs.
- Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T4 review
GoPro’s action cameras have long been popular with vloggers. And while it might have some rough edges, the Hero 9 Black is GoPro’s most powerful and versatile effort to date – even if older models offer better value.
A new 23.6MP sensor is capable of shooting 5K/30p video and, in the right conditions, can capture more detail than any GoPro so far. But the bigger news is that the most powerful HyperSmooth Boost stabilization mode can now shoot silky smooth and stable footage at all resolutions and frame-rates.
The other headline feature is the fresh front-facing color display. Though it’s a little laggy, the second screen is a boon for vloggers, offering an easy way to ensure their face stays the frame. The square aspect ration means it isn’t a true preview, but it’s nevertheless a useful for addition for those shooting pieces to camera.
Other upgrades are less dramatic: battery life is marginally improved, while new Power Tools introduce a handful of neat software recording tricks. Wind noise is handled better, too, with enhanced voice isolation. It’s not flawless – the rear touchscreen is disappointingly unresponsive – but the GoPro Hero 9 Black is the best rugged vlogging camera you can buy.
- Read our in-depth GoPro Hero 9 Black Review
Few cameras offer the vlogging portability of the Insta360 Go 2. Hitting the scales at a mere 26.5g, the camera itself is a tiny, pared-back pebble that’s capable of capturing detailed and dynamic 1440p footage at up to 50fps. Stabilization isn’t up to GoPro standards, but the FlowState software does a reasonable job of mitigating walking motion, especially if you process video with your laptop rather than the Insta360 app. There’s no display on the camera itself, which will be a dealbreaker for some, but the app can be used for a wireless video preview.
More useful, though, is the protective charging case: home to two buttons and an OLED readout, the controls and camera face the user when the Insta360 Go 2 is docked, making it an ideal handheld vlogging setup. The case also features fold-out legs for tripod duties and works as a remote for wireless camera control. At 30 minutes, battery life isn’t the best, but with a single microphone that renders vocals with decent punch and clarity, the Insta360 Go 2 is an easy, properly pocketable option for recording quick clips and vlogs on the go.
- Read our in-depth Insta360 Go 2 review
Offering full-frame performance in a Micro Four Thirds body, the Panasonic Lumix S5 is a fantastic hybrid that should appeal to a wide variety of creators.
Smaller and lighter than the GH5 yet equipped with a full-frame mirrorless sensor, the Lumix S5 sits extremely comfortably in the hand and features a comprehensive array of buttons and dials. And vloggers will welcome the arrival of a fully articulating touchscreen which can flip out to face forwards.
In fact, the S5 offers plenty to lure in video creators. It can capture 10-bit 4K internally, cropped 4K at 60p and uncropped 4K at 30p. It also supports V-Log, time-lapses, dual native ISO and anamorphic 4K. In-body image stabilization keeps things nice and smooth and, although the autofocus is still contrast-based, the AF-C setting is more than capable of following subjects while walking and talking.
The only real compromise – besides a 30-minute limit on 10-bit clips – is the inclusion of a Micro HDMI port, rather than a full-size one. And it might be worth considering a second battery if you’ll be recording all day. But with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on-board, as well as a 20-60mm kit lens that’s ideal for video, the S5 should tick almost every box for vloggers.
- Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S5 review
Long popular with vloggers, Canon’s G7X range has kicked it up a notch with the Mark III. There’s a very capable 20.1 megapixel one-inch sensor, but now it’s also equipped with uncropped 4K video recording, along with something that's been requested many times – a microphone socket.
This means you can elevate the sound above and beyond the internal mic’s offering, if you want to. Even better, the G7X III can stream directly to YouTube – which is, right now, an advantage over the Sony ZV-1 – so you can live vlog whatever’s happening around you, without having to downgrade to using your smartphone. USB charging is another great feature which means you can give it power bursts on the go – particularly prudent if you’ve been shooting a lot of 4K video.
The G7X Mark III's contrast detection-only AF and more limited tilting screen mean it's been nudged down this list by the Sony ZV-1, but it's also more affordable and is still well worth considering if you need a pocket vlogging rocket.
- Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III review
Touted by Panasonic as “the ultimate vlogging camera”, budding videographers are bound to love the G100’s compact form. Built small and light for portability, it’s the world’s smallest camera with an articulating touchscreen. And despite its size, the G100 is also packed with video-focused features.
As you’d expect, there’s 4K/30p video recording – albeit with a crop that limits its use as self-recording tool – as well as an arsenal of useful social media tools, including a video selfie mode, a sharing frame marker and a dedicated button for transferring footage to your smartphone.
Most significant, though, is the new audio system: a first on a mirrorless camera, Ozo Audio by Nokia uses three microphones to pick up sound wherever it’s coming from – including from behind – and it does an excellent job of prioritizing audio, even in noisy situations.
The 20.3MP sensor produces vibrant, detailed footage in most conditions, struggling only in low light. And, while image stabilization isn’t as smooth as you’d get with a gimbal, the five-axis hybrid system is still suitable for everyday recording. Add a real-world battery life of 40-45 minutes video shooting and you’ve got an attractive vlogging option.
- Read our in-depth Panasonic G100 review
Canon really is the king of vlogging cameras, with several making our list thanks to a fantastic range of features and options. The Canon EOS Mark II is the latest iteration of its M series of compact system cameras, and is small and light enough to be a great travel companion.
However, in its miniature body, it’s housing the same high-resolution 32.5 megapixel sensor as the 90D DSLR (see below). With Dual Pixel CMOS AF and uncropped 4K video recording, it’s one you could use to kick your vlogs up a gear. There’s also a microphone input socket, plus a screen that faces all the way forward for perfect framing.
- Read our in-depth Canon EOS M6 Mark II review
Alternatively...
If you don’t want to invest in a dedicated camera for your vlogging, but you still want to take your footage up a notch, the DJI OM 4 is a great alternative option.
It uses a 3-axis gimbal to create smooth footage straight from your existing phone, simply by attaching it to the gimbal via magnets.
Other benefits include the ability to fold down the gimbal for easier transportation, quick release to allow you to use your phone for other things – such as making calls – without having to faff around too much with the set up.
It fits around most phones, including large models such as the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, but it can struggle with thicker cases.
- Read our in-depth DJI OM 4 review
The recent arrival of the Panasonic G100 (see above) has pushed the G95/G90 down our vlogging camera pecking order a little, but it's a very different camera that will remain on sale and brings several advantages.
While it's much larger than the G100, this does mean it has room to pack in sensor-based stabilization, making it a better option for walkaround videos. The G95 / G90 also inherits the flagship Panasonic G9's sensor, and squeezes in an impressive array of video-friendly features, including microphone and headphone sockets for perfect sound.
There are tonnes of lenses available for the Micro Four Thirds system, so there’s something for every job, while the 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens which you can buy it with as part of a kit as a great all-rounder for lots of different shooting scenarios. A fully-articulating touchscreen is ideal for presenting to camera, while there’s also advanced video features such as 4K shooting and V-Log recording, too. Keep an eye on the G95/G90's prices, because it could become something of a bargain.
- Read our in-depth Panasonic G90/G95 review
- Discover our best compact camera 2021 choices
What video quality should you be looking for?
Whatever type of camera you go for, considering video quality will likely be top of your list. At the absolute minimum you’ll be looking to shoot in Full HD (1080p), while 4K is becoming increasingly common. Although the higher resolution format will take up more space on your hard drive, it should future-proof your captures a little more than Full HD.
Other specifications to pay attention to include built-in WiFi for sharing your vlogs on the move, a fully articulating or tilting monitor for helping to frame your face, a built-in microphone socket for enhancing sound quality.
We’ve picked out eight top cameras of various shapes, sizes and attributes to suit different styles of vlogging – as well as highlighting some that will fit into your all-round stills and video shooting requirements.
- Best camera
- Best DSLR
- Best mirrorless camera
- Best 4K camera
- Best full-frame camera
- Best compact camera
- What camera should I buy?
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