Best 4K Camcorder Under $1000 [Detailed Review]
Technology is advancing, and so are the consumer's standards. If you're a professional photographer or filmmaker, you must always be updated with the latest camcorders/video cameras in the market; only then you can stand out from the crowd. With that said, If your looking for a professional camcorder, it is highly recommended that you get a 4K supporting one; however, if you are a newbie, a pretty decent camcorder with 1080p/720p resolution is suitable to learn the basics.
I insist on choosing a high video resolution video camera because your audience will definitely feel the upgrade in video quality when they watch your content. However, remember higher video recording resolution means you need extra memory cards, and the camcorder should be able to record and store those heavy files easily.
So, what is this article up to? In this article, I have included a list of the best camcorders under $1000, including 4k and other resolution camcorder models. I have also given a buying guide at the end to make it easy for you to make the right decision about your purchase. So, stay tuned to know the top performers on this list. Let's begin.
In a hurry?!, here are my top picks of the best video cameras under 1000 dollars
BEST CAMCORDERS UNDER 1000 REVIEW
1. SONY FDR-AX43 - BEST BUDGET 4K CAMCORDER UNDER $1000
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
The FDR-AX43 deserves mention when you talk about the best professional video camera under 1000 dollars. It comes with a 1/2.5" Exmor R Low-Light CMOS Sensor. What appealed to me is that this camcorder has an in-built gimbal mechanism and the Balanced Optical SteadyShot technology (5-axis), which gives you the most stable image even if you run.
DESIGN:
The camcorder measures 6" in length, which means it is palm-sized, so you can carry it wherever you go. Its body is entirely made of plastic but feels very durable and also makes it lightweight.
The 3" rotatable flip-out LCD makes the camcorder great for self-vlogging, hunting, or any professional purposes. Users can adjust the zoom, focus, and other composition aspects manually just with their index fingers.
And the transfer of files with the camcorder is very easy as it is Wi-Fi enabled.
There is a similar version to the AX43, which is Sony AX53/B; when you compare both, only a few change.
Like in Sony AX43, you don't have a viewfinder; however, the improved model has an in-built EVF. And also, the Infrared Night-vision function is present in the latter. If you feel these two features aren't that important for you, you can proceed with the AX43 model itself.
NOTE: You can attach an external EVF using the MI shoe mount of the Sony AX-43
PERFORMANCE:
With this camcorder, you get high-resolution 4K movie quality recording along with a high-quality sound recorded by the inbuilt microphone. Yes, the in-built mic has three mic capsules with stereo separation to better capture the video's sound.
The microphones also filter out any unwanted background noise. You are also welcome to attach external stereo microphones, flashlights, etc., as the camcorder has a MI (Multi-Interface shoe mount). This camcorder provides a high framerate where it captures up to 100fps/120fps.
So you can always use it for slow-motion shots as well. It has a BIONZ X image processing engine that processes videos much faster and gives a vivid, high-quality image clarity that simply cannot be rivaled. All settings are easily accessible and usable, thanks to the ergonomically designed LCD touch control screen.
If I have to tell you the most unique feature of beautiful camcorder, it is its ability to record UHD 4K,24p/4K/30p footage at a speed of 100 Mb/s using XAVC S codec format. In the case of 1080p HD videos, the capture rate is 50Mb/s. So, if you are looking for the best vlogging camera under $1000, you've found it!
Lastly, the best features I liked about this camcorder include these: Intelligent AF tracking, it comes with remote control, 5.1 channel sound recording microphone and it's ability to take still photographs even while recording videos.
With respect to the above listed features, the Sony FDR-AX43 rightly takes the name of the best camcorder under 1000!!
What extra is included in the package:
- A rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack
- AC adapter
- micro-HDMI cable, and micro-USB cable.
If you wish to get a more detailed explanation of this camcorder, check my detailed review on SONY FDR-AX43
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
2. CANON VIXIA HF G50
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
The second on my list is this power-packed camcorder from Canon. If you will be doing a lot of fieldwork and need a camcorder to shoot handheld for long hours, then this G50 Canon camcorder is the ultimate choice.
For under 1000$, it is packed with extensive features like 4k Video recording with 20x optical zoom, in-built EVF, dynamic O.I.S. (5-axis stabilization), 8-rounded blades, and a lot more.
NOTE: If you search for the best camcorder for under $1000 list, you will definitely have this Canon G50 video camera listed there.
DESIGN:
The Canon VIXIA HF-G50 is very compact and comparatively lightweight (870 g). There are only a few quick access control buttons and custom dial rings (to adjust focus and zoom) found on the camcorder’s body. The smooth-going lens ring lets you adjust the zoom and focus precisely.
Unlike the Sony FDR AX43, in which you have to attach an external EVF here there is an in-built tiltable (upto 45-degree) EVF. And you have got the same flip-out screen and joystick compatibility as you see in most professional video cameras.
The camcorder doesn’t have any in-built stereo mic but does come with a headphone and microphone jack. Also, there is a Cold shoe and a mini advanced shoe mount for attaching external devices.
PERFORMANCE:
One of the top features of this camcorder is that it delivers ZERO noise even in poor lighting conditions. So, I recommend this camcorder for photographers looking for the best low light camcorder for under 1000 dollars.
Next, there are many in-built modes you can try using while recording videos. This includes slow-mo recording mode, super-fast, and interval recording options.
In terms of audio, the camcorder supports 2.0-Channel Stereo, whereas the previous was capable of supporting 5.1-Channel stereo.
Overall, this Canon G50 is the one of the best professional video cameras under 1000!!
What comes extra in the package:
- A.C. adapter with an adapter cable
- Rechargeable BP-820 battery pack
- Lens hood with lens barrier.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
3. PANASONIC FULL HD HC-V770 - BEST VIDEO CAMERA UNDER 1000$
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
If you feel you need a good-quality camcorder between 600-700$, then what about trying this Panasonic HC-V770 camcorder. Apart from normal characteristics like 20x optical zoom and 5-axis hybrid image stabilization, it has an HDR (High Dynamic Range) Video Recording.
This will help you take 2 images/videos at different exposures, combine them into a single picture/video, and enhance the final result picture. And don’t worry, the color gradation will remain perfectly fine when your shoot in low-lights.
DESIGN:
There is a Multi-Mode dial on the camcorder’s body that will help you adjust these settings: Multi-Manual Dial. The Multi-Manual Dial can control several in-camera functions like Focus, White Balance, Shutter Speed, Sharpness, Iris, Brightness, and saturation.
The 20x Leica Dicomar lens can open wide at up to f/1.8. Which means you can take shots with beautiful bokeh.
PERFORMANCE:
The camcorder is capable of shooting UHD videos at 4k and HD videos at 1080p resolution. The autofocus tracking is extremely fast and accurate as the image sensor has a 60fps readout speed.
You can live stream videos via USTREAM even while shooting at Full-HD, making it a great camcorder for YouTubers and vloggers.
You can take picture/video footage using any of these in-built effects: Miniature, 8mm Movie, Silent Movie, and Time Lapse.
Lastly, the twin camera feature is very fun to use. You just need to connect the camcorder with your smartphone via Wi-Fi and use that as a secondary camera for taking pictures. Interesting right!
What extra comes in the package:
- Rechargeable Battery Pack, 3.6 VDC, 1940 mah
- AC Adapter
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
4. SONY FDRAX53/B - BEST ZOOM CAMCORDER
I had discussed the Sony FDR AX43 above, and this FDR-AX53 is the better version of that. As most of the features remain common with both camcorders, I will tell you only the unique features of this best 4K Handycam.
You have a gimbal mechanism in the AX43 model; however, this one doesn't have that. But, you don't have to purchase an external viewfinder to attach to this camera as it already has one.
Secondly, the screen resolution is more in this camcorder (9.21K dots touchscreen). Finally, the AX53 outranks its predecessor by providing a NightShot Infrared facility.
Now I'll briefly explain its other features: The camcorder with Sony's Balance Optical Steady Shot image stabilization technology provides 5-axis vibration reduction.
Next, the camcorder comes with a lower-noise built-in microphone. You can also make high-resolution slow-motion content. The focus can be cropped onto just a portion of the 4K video or image frame to fully cover the screen in full HD quality. Some more advanced features are the Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity that makes this camcorder more compatible. With this feature, you can access your camcorder with Android or iOS devices and wirelessly transfer files to them as well.
With respect to the above features, this Sony FDR AX53/B rightly justifies itself as the top-rated camcorder of the year.
What comes extra in the package:
- Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 6.8 VDC, 1960 mAh
- AC Adapter
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
5. PANASONIC HC-VX1
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The HC-VX1 is the best 4k camcorder under 1000 without any doubt. Let’s see what makes this product so great: it comes with a 24x Optical Zoom. It has a futuristic MOS sensor and uses the AF algorithm for processing. Capture even the smallest with its wide-angle 25mm lens.
The Hybrid OIS used in this camcorder drastically reduces blurring even when you zoom into an image. The bright F1.8 high-performance lens, which has cleared Leica Camera AG’s standards lens, improves shooting during times and locations that have low lighting.
The feature that stands out most in this 4k Panasonic camcorder is the fact that it can be used for cropping out unnecessary parts of the frame without having to take the footage to post-production.
You can be prepared for unexpected situations with their post manual tracking feature where you to touch subjects that move unexpectedly and track them to change the angle of the shot is captured.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
6. SAMSUNG HMX-F90 - BEST PROSUMER VIDEO CAMERA UNDER 1000
PRODUCT DETAILS:
This camcorder is not as powerful as the camcorders mentioned above, I agree. But still, it is a useful camcorder, and for $700, it drives an appreciable performance. And guess what, it is the highest optical zoom camcorder mentioned in this list.
You can use the lens for taking family videos indoors or do vlogging as the lens can work in dimly lit backgrounds. Transfer of files and editing the pictures is not hectic if you have this camcorder in your hand. Yes, the built-in Intelli-studio editing software in the Samsung HMX-F90 will help you transfer and edit files. After which, your only work is to upload the vlog on YouTube.
The only drawback is that this best cheap 4k camcorder can take up to 1.29MP still photos. Other than that, it is one of the top prosumer camcorders for under $1000.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
7. PANASONIC HC-WXF991K - BEST 4K ULTRA HD CAMCORDER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The HC-WXF991K is a state of the art budget HD camcorder. This camcorder features a tiltable electronic viewfinder to assist you with focusing on a target or targets of choice, and you also have the option of 24p recording. Get the full cinematic feel when the slow-motion effects and dolly-zoom effects.
The camcorder features a twin video camera and a rotating camera on an LCD door. You can also monitor the HD feed for picture-in-picture video. I would suggest this camcorder for those looking for a budget friendly movie camera to shoot short films.
Something that I really liked would be the 4K Cropping feature, from which you can obtain a cropped area of an HD video.
The Panasonic HC-WXF991K does not restrict itself to just 4K Ultra HD video recording. It also gives you some top-notch features like in-camera editing and creative effects as well. With this camcorder, you get the best wireless multi-camera functionality. The camera allows you to focus on and capture a wide range of angles and viewpoints at once instead of restricting you to just one.
All of these combined make the HC-WXF991K the best 4k camcorder for live streaming.
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
BUYERS GUIDE FOR THE BEST VIDEO CAMERA UNDER 1000
If you are a content creator looking to buy the top 4k camcorder, but you don’t know where to start or what to look for in the camera? Well, I have you covered. Here’s a simple yet comprehensive guide on how you should go about choosing a camcorder and what you should be looking for in one.
Sensor Size
There can be different kinds of sensors in cameras. Some have a large 1” sensor, while others use a smaller 1/2.3”. Always remember to look for a big sensor. Larger sensors are better for the following reasons. A larger sensor gives out a better resolution, and since they can take in more light, they produce better low light images.
Bit Rate
When you’re comparing two cameras on their bit rate, you should keep two things in mind. A higher bit rate means better quality video and larger files, but with a higher bit rate, your memory gets consumed rapidly since the files take a lot of space. So keep in mind what your priority is regarding the quality to memory ratio.
Memory
In terms of memory, there are two broad categories for cameras. The ones that come with internal flash memory and the ones that need SD cards. Now don’t let this be the crucial factor in making your decision since it will only be a matter of convenience and nothing else. So if you’re someone who’s got a busy work schedule, it’s better you go for cameras with inbuilt internal memory storage.
Image Stabilization
If you’re shooting while moving, you’re going to need a steady. Some cameras don’t have optical image stabilization; avoid these if you’re going to have a lot of movement while shooting. A camera with optical image stabilization has moving parts of the glass inside the lens.
A camera with 5-axis image stabilization will be stabilized for five different types of motion, whereas a 3-axis type is only stabilized in three types of movement, so choose accordingly depending on how stable you want the image to be.
Zoom
A good zoom can make a huge difference in video quality. So look for camcorders that have a zoom of at least 5x or 10x. However, if your work profile requires you to take long-range shots in fields like wildlife documentary or live to report, then I would recommend that you go for a camera that can zoom up to 25x.
Aperture
The aperture is the size of the opening in the lens that lets in light. Now how it works is that the size of the aperture determines how much light is allowed into the lens. So if you’re going to be taking a lot of low light images, then you should go for bigger apertures.
Audio
Inbuilt microphones for cameras come in different types, and it would be impossible to pick apart all the different features to look for. However, you can divide these mics into “Mono” this microphone only picks up the audio on one channel.
Always pick a mic that has stereo over one that has Mono because stereo has dual channels and picks up sound in a better way. Some camcorders may not have microphones. In that case, make sure they have a highly compatible hot shoe for you to be able to set up different kinds of mics.
Look into all of these factors and choose the best 4k camcorder under 1000 that meets your needs.
CONCLUSION
That's a wrap! Now that you've learned what these best camcorders under 1000 are capable of, choose your best one wisely. Remember, no matter what professional camera gear you use, practice makes a man perfect. So, purchase any of the best video cameras for under $1000 mentioned here and learn to frame shots from different angles, and learn how to use the different camera settings properly to get the best result.
