Best Camcorders And Video Cameras For Live Streaming
Camcorders with live stream facilities are almost common these days but remember, not all high-end professional video cameras allow you to broadcast video. But for photojournalists, those working in broadcast stations and even business people look for this function mainly in a camcorder.
So how do we know the best camcorders for live streaming? I will help you. Be it a beginner or a professional looking for such a camcorder, you can find your ideal pick here.
If you’re a professional event videographer, you should specifically look for video cameras that can live stream videos instead of investing in an overall good camcorder.
Some specifications and physical aspects are simply essential for live streaming, while a few additional features could flourish your purpose. So, can we begin with the list now?!
In a hurry?! Here are my top picks
REVIEWS OF THE BEST CAMCORDERS FOR LIVE STREAMING
BEGINNER CAMCORDERS FOR LIVE STREAMING
1. SONY FDR-AX43 - BEST CAMCORDER FOR NEWS REPORTING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Usually, 4K camcorders are highly-expensive, but the Sony FDR-AX43 4K is at the top of my recommendation list because it is affordable and one of the best video cameras for live streaming in the market.
The FDR-AX43 offers all the specs and features; that you need for live streaming. It has a 20X optical zoom and a decent low-light image sensor that frames video perfectly in various resolutions. You will not notice any loss in video quality even at the highest zoom or under low-light conditions.
Note: To live-stream your footage using this camcorder, you need to connect this cam to a video capture card (compatible with your computer) using the HDMI interface.
The best part of this camcorder is the improved audio and video recording quality, and being a content creator or a journalist, you cannot compromise on either of these.
It has a High-resolution 4k video capture resolution, a Fast Intelligent AF, and a Ball O.I.S. (Optical SteadyShot image stabilization) to deliver grain-free footage with utmost clarity. With the 3" flip-out type touchscreen LCD you can frame your shots accurately.
In terms of audio, there is a 3-mic array in the camcorder that will capture sounds from all directions while you speak in a YouTube live video. You can also attach an external microphone using the MI (Multi-interface) shoe present in this video cam.
Last but not least, it has Wi-Fi and can be used as a Webcam, so you can seamlessly live stream videos on any social media platform like Youtube, Facebook, and a lot more. So, you can lock the best deal of this camcorder for your upcoming event coverage project. Its easy-to-use compact design, built-in wireless connectivity, and clean HDMI output help you achieve the best result.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
2. KENUO 4K - BEST WIFI VIDEO CAMERA FOR LIVE STREAMING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The Kenuo 4K Camcorder is one of the most affordable Wi-Fi video cameras for live streaming. If you’re not concerned about the brand name, you can go for Kanuo without having second thoughts in mind. Telling you why –
It records 4K ultra HD video at 24 frames per second with decent clarity, though you’ll get lower resolution options. You can use an external stereo microphone to improve the audio quality.
This HD hd camcorder for live streaming comes with an advanced HDMI cable and a mini USB 2.0 cable. The HDMI cable lets you transfer the videos for live streaming on TV or a projector. You can connect a computer using the USB cable to upload the captured images and videos on social media in no time. However, you can use this camcorder as a webcam to live stream videos or chats with friends on social networking sites. The 2.4G remote control device works fine within the range of 60 feet, which is a big plus for self-live streaming.
The camcorder has a very easy-to-use design which is desirable for every beginner. If you are willing to start your journey as a professional videographer, you can start with this camcorder. All specs and features help you in every step; the design and functions are easily adaptable, and the manufacturer priced the camera very reasonably, only for newbies in this field.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
3. YIDA TECH 4K - TOP CAMCORDER FOR LIVE STREAMING CHURCH
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The YIDA TECH 4K Vlogging Camera is a newly launched camcorder for streaming, which emphasizes high-quality content, live streaming functions, and ease of use design. The video camera shoots 4K ultra HD video at up to 30 frames per second rate and uncompressed 1080P HD resolution video at up to 60 FPS rate. It produces bright and vibrant videos with top-notch clarity by default.
It doesn’t have such a low light handling function; still, it captures clear video in darkness. The fill light is a big plus here; that illuminates the subjects and eases your job while shooting in dark areas. If the external light feels hard on the subject, you can use an external filter to soften the light. However, you will get various preset composition settings options and filter effects in the menu settings.
This camcorder also enables remote control operation at 360 degrees within 60 feet distance range. You can connect this camera to HDTV via HDMI cable or to the computer using the USB cable. It provides streaming-friendly clean HDMI output, which lets you stream real-time videos.
Besides autofocus, the manual focusing option helps you keep the frame stays exactly the way you want. If you want a budget-friendly option, nothing can be better than YIDA TECH 4K Vlogging Camera. In case you want to keep your step in the professional camcorder world, keep reading.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
PROFESSIONAL CAMCORDERS FOR LIVE STREAMING
4. PANASONIC X2000 - BEST 4K CAMCORDER FOR LIVE STREAMING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Now, it’s time to keep our steps out of budget camcorders. There are some high-end pro-level camcorders; that you need for professional work.
The Panasonic X2000 4k camcorder could be used for filming video and live streaming the BTS video, as well from the shooting set. The camera enthusiasts mainly appreciate the Panasonic X2000 for 4:2:2 10-bit colored 4K Ultra HD video recording capability. But, we enlisted this camcorder at the top of the list of the best video cameras for live streaming because of the impressive 10-bit full HD video broadcasting ability, XLR audio input, clean HDMI, and 3G SDI video output options.
The overheating issue is a cause of concern for live streaming and the Panasonic X2000 also wins over this field. The included battery itself provides around 4 hours of run time; plus, there’s an ultra-thin fan inside that disperses the heat. That means, you also can broadcast the event continuously using USB charging without hesitating about overheating issues.
Moreover, the remote control operation, highly precise autofocus, enhanced zoom, improved image stabilization system, wireless connectivity, rotatable display, and much more aspects will help you in every step. You can consider this camcorder as the best video camera for live sports streaming or live game streaming, as well.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
5. SONY PXW-X70 - CAMCORDER WITH BUILT IN LIVE STREAMING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The Sony PXW-X70 is a perfect video camera for fieldwork, be it newsgathering, video broadcasting from the field, or event venue; the camcorder always produces the best quality video. Thanks to the large BSI image sensor, powerful image processing unit, and high-end camera lens. The large-format image sensor maintains the highest clarity in insufficient lighting conditions and helps to bring out the best result from all situations.
The camcorder records a 10-bit 4:2:2 video at up to 60 fps in two resolutions, 1080P full HD and 720P HD. It supports XLR microphones, provides clear HDMI and 3G SDI video output. The camcorder has both accessory mounting show, multiple interfaces (MI), and a hot shoe; so, you can use versatile external accessories to achieve the best result.
If your client demands you to stream the marriage video shoot live on YouTube be ready to impress them with this Sony PXW-X70. Generally, most video cameras struggle against low lighting conditions inside of the church, marriage halls, event venue, or field of the news. With the Sony PXW-X70, you never face any hurdle during live streaming.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
6. CANON XA11 - BEST LIVE STREAMING VIDEO CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The Canon XA11 is a high-rated camcorder for live streaming videos. Professionals prefer this camera due to its’ HDR video recording in full HD resolution. It provides various options for recording in multiple formats and with different frame rates. You can set the recording and encoding settings according to your working needs and internet speed during video broadcasting.
The improved low light feature, tilting electronic viewfinder, the rotatable and touchable display will add extra benefits while you broadcast your video. It doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, but you can purchase a Livestream switcher (ready-to-share version) to live stream the footage over the internet stream the real-time video feed on TV.
The HDR content has more color accuracy and better color contrast that looks overall better than only HD content. So, the Canon XA11 4k video camera could be considered as a great alternative live streaming camcorder option; that you’ll get at a minimal price point. We’re not saying that $1200 is very reasonable to all, but the price point is pretty lower than other high-end 4k professional camcorders.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
7. SONY HXR-NX3/1 NXCAM - PROFESSIONAL VIDEO CAMERA FOR BROADCASTING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The users commend this camcorder for its zooming capacity, detailed image quality, and impressive video output. It features three HD CMOS sensors; that work individually for delivering high detailed texture, maintaining high color contrast, and reducing noise during shooting under insufficient lighting conditions. The frame rate flexibility helps you stream the best quality video without buffering. On the other hand, the remote control operation and wireless connectivity make your job easy.
You’ll get all the things in this camcorder that you expect from a pro-level live stream video camera. The price is a bit higher than the previous options, but it’s okay to splash the cash on the best thing; isn’t it?
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA FOR LIVE STREAMING CAMERAS
Cameras stream the real-time video feed on TVs or social networking sites during live streaming. The streaming platforms directly capture the signal coming from its’ SDI or HDMI out port. Some cameras also send the user interface (UI) data, such as remaining battery life, recording status, exposure settings, and much more. The videos with such onscreen data indicators are not suitable for live streaming; Right? So, your chosen camera has to be capable of delivering clean HDMI output either by default; or it should include options in the menu settings to do so.
Video streaming of an event runs for hours. On the other hand, you know that the internal batteries only last for almost half an hour. So, be sure that the camera has options for external power supply, more precisely, charging port for AC power adapter.
Some cameras have an auto shut-off option; that stops recording and shuts off the camera automatically after 30 minutes of inactivity. It ensures safety and reserves battery life. But, sometimes we have to live streams or record videos for a long time from a single position; Right? The automatic shutoff option creates trouble here; so, there should be options for disabling it in the settings menu.
Live streaming for over an hour could overheat the camera; the issue becomes serious especially when you charge up the camera over the USB cable. We suggest using an AC power adapter, and dummy battery instead of USB power to prevent such overheating issues. And, never forget to research about overheating issues before finalizing your purchasing decision.
If your chosen camera meets these essential criteria, it is safe to assume that the camera is good enough for liver streaming. But, there is something more; that really matters in video live streaming. If the camera offers the following things, you could say the camera is just meant for live streaming.
ASPECTS TO CONSIDER WHILE BUYING A VIDEO CAMERA FOR LIVE STREAMING
People wonder whether they need a 4K video camera or not! In our opinion, the 4K video recording option is still unnecessary for live streaming, even for most cases. Because sending and receiving 4K signals require powerful encoding and high-speed bandwidth. Moreover, according to the research, most viewers stream videos on their mobiles; so, 1080P HD video resolution is more than enough for live streaming.
Mostly we suggest choosing at least HD resolution, which almost all live stream video cameras do offer today. If your target audiences are going to watch your live video on 4K displays, like in the case of live streaming of an event, you should go for 4K professional cameras.
The 60 to 120 fps is the recommended frame rate for capturing fast-paced actions and activities like sports, while the 30fps rate is good enough for covering average-paced actions like interviews.
The optical zoom lets you bring the image closer before capturing it. So you don’t need to crop the captured image so that there is no chance of affecting the pixels negatively. A camera with enhanced optical zoom and an effective auto-focusing system is always preferable for live streaming.
We suggest having a Wi-Fi or internet connection with at least an upload speed of 10 Mbps for broadcasting HD quality video. Though different streaming platforms come with different requirements; mostly the required internet speed of Wi-Fi connection depends on the video quality.
The internal microphone rarely captures good sound, though it never includes audio-video sync issues. If the background sound and vocals are important for the video, we suggest going for a video camera with external audio inputs. Most of the cameras support a 3.5mm jack external microphone, while some advanced models come with multiple XLR inputs to record great sound from various sources at the same time.
Professional videographers always prefer a camera with a rotating display as it saves lots of extra effort. For instance, you can confidently shoot yourself on your own; the flip screen helps you shoot from comfortable shooting angles, and so on. The images get flipped accordingly while you flip the screen.
Try to choose a camera that can both record video and stream the video at the same time. You should always keep a backup recording of your live-streamed videos, specifically if you work for news gathering or interviewing anyone.
There are lots of choices; Right? So, if you really want to flourish your purpose, try not to compromise with these things.
FAQ
Tripod, power adapter, and key light are the most important things, while you may need a display TV for live streaming an event and external USB or XLR microphones to gracefully capture the sound.
But make sure you properly connect the camcorder to the computer or TV before starting to live stream. If both the video camera and TV you're using are wifi-enabled, this shouldn't be an issue.
We’ve already answered your question in detail. If you missed it slightly scroll up the page to know about all considering aspects.
Most recent model camcorders are Wi-Fi enabled and allow you to use them as a webcam for live streaming. And if your camcorders supports this feature you can use it to live stream your videos on any social platform like Youtube, Facebook or even use it for your zoom meetings.
You can use HDMI support for this. In my article on webcam vs camcorder, I've mentioned the steps on how to convert your camcorder to a webcam to live stream videos. You can check that for an in-depth setup guide.
CONCLUSION
I’ve tried to pick the best live streaming video cameras for all budget customers. Hopefully, you’ll get satisfied with their performance, but which would be the best for you, it totally depends on your requirements.
I recommend a few streaming camcorders to you based on my experience and analyzing the customer reviews. Naturally, there you’ll get lots of choices in the varying price range. You could choose any of them, but strictly consider the concerning aspects before buying anything.
