Best Cheap Camera For Youtube – Vloggers Pick

Making YouTube videos is fun, but at the same time, it requires tremendous amounts of effort, time, and money. But mostly, you need a 3.5mm microphone and a digital camera to shoot a simple YouTube video. However, you don’t need a very pricey camera to shoot high-quality YouTube videos.

best cheap camera for youtube

But it is often recommended to start without spending too much money on a costly camera. It is better that you first learn to use a camera correctly. And finding the right type of camera and on a budget can be tedious since there are just so many of them in the same price range.

If money isn't an issue, you can get some mirrorless camera, which are the best example of exciting and promising new tech, and you probably won't regret.

To make things simpler for you, I have compiled a list of some of the best and cheap cameras for shooting YouTube videos. So read on and make your choice.

10 BEST CHEAP CAMERA FOR YOUTUBE

1. NIKON COOLPIX B500 - BEST NIKON CAMERA FOR VIDEO

NIKON COOLPIX - best cheap camera for youtube

Available at a reasonable price, the COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera by Nikon takes all the work out of shooting beautiful photos and videos with its 16 MP low-light sensor, Lens-Shift Vibration Reduction (VR), easy menus and controls, fun creative effects and outstanding automatic operation.

It can be seamlessly connected to a compatible smartphone through Bluetooth low energy (BLE) technology for instant photo sharing and remote camera control.

40x optical zoom allows you super telephoto power. The Dynamic Fine Zoom, an enhanced digital zoom, gives an 80x zoom. Lens-Shift Vibration Reduction (VR) keeps your shots and videos steady, crucial at such long distances, and a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor captures every detail.

Built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth low energy (BLE) give a constant connection between the app and your camera. Each shot you take is transferred automatically to your smartphone or tablet for sharing and editing. 

Don't miss this camera because it has useful features to offer for you and it is at the reasonable price side in my list of best cheap camera for YouTube.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 1/2.3 inches BSI CMOS Sensor.
  • 16 MP sensor.
  • ED Lens f/3.0 6.5 mm of NIKKOR.
  • 80x Dynamic Zoom and 40x Optical Zoom Lens.
  • Dot Tilting LCD 3 inches 921k.
  • Highest ISO Sensitivity is 6400.
  • Full HD 1080p.
  • Video Recording at high quality 30 fps.
  • Wireless communication includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC Connectivity.
  • Remote controllable by Tablet or Smartphone.
  • Optical Sensor Resolution is 16 MP.
  • Four LR6/L40 AA Alkaline Batteries.

Pros

  • Amazing picture quality.
  • Reasonable price.
  • Zoom feature is impressive.
  • AA disposable batteries for rechargeable battery feature.

Cons

  • Hollow stereo sound.
  • Flash power is inadequate.

2. CANON POWERSHOT - BEST HANDHELD CAMERA FOR YOUTUBE VIDEOS

CANON POWERSHOT - best cheap camera for youtube

The PowerShot ELPH 360 digital camera is versatile as well as tiny enough to fit into your pocket. The included Wi-Fi and NFC make it easy to share your greatest moments. It comes with 12x optical zoom, 20.2 MP CMOS sensor, and DIGIC 4+ image processor to help deliver detailed images.

It comes with a clear 3-inch LCD to help ensure you have the picture you want. The wide-angle lens captures an impressive image in each shot, adding depth, perspective and grandeur.

Landscapes, city scenes, and family shots all benefit from the extra width. Whether you're shooting wide group shots or zooming to the telephoto end, your images can be bright and clear.

It is easy to capture clear, steady images even in low-light without using a tripod. The built-in Wi-Fi technology provides you on-the-go convenience when you want to share your photos and videos with friends and family. So this can be your ideal choice, if you are looking for a cheap camera for youtube with amazing zooming feature.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 12x optical zoom.
  • Optical image stabilizer.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC.
  • Large 3.0 inch LCD for easy viewing from a wide-angle.
  • Maximum Resolution is 5184 x 3888.
  • 1080p HD video recording capabilities.
  • 20.2 MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor give stunning image quality.
  • High-Speed USB-B, HDMI ports.
  • Direct connections to PIXMA Photo Printers, Canon SELPHY, and PictBridge printers.
  • Optical Sensor Resolution of 20.2 MP.
  • Optical zoom of 46x.
  • Story Highlights automatically compile images and videos.
  • Angular camera shake is taken care of by Image stabilization.

Pros

  • Easy to carry, lightweight.
  • Quick deployment.
  • Bootup speed is fast.
  • Responsive zoom.
  • 12 X zoom provides an excellent range with a decent lens.

Cons

  • The quality of the sensor and lens is not up to the mark.
  • Susceptible to water damage.

3. SONY (DSCW800) - BEST DIGITAL CAMERA UNDER 200

SONY (DSCW800) - best cheap camera for youtube

An influential 20.1 MP super HAD CCD image sensor in this Sony (DSCW800) 20.1 MP digital camera helps you capture gorgeous images with superb contrast and clarity and it is highly recommended if you are looking for a cheap camera for youtube.

You can put your camera in easy mode to reduce the layers in your menu. This makes your shooting experience enjoyable and straightforward. The Picture Effect adds a new level of expression to your shots, by heightening mood and emphasizing specific attributes.

You can capture more breathtaking shots with Sweep Panorama mode. It allows you to connect your camera via USB to your PC’s USB port or power supply and charge your battery while you are on the move.

It delivers sharp image quality with low noise and minimal blur even while the user is strolling. The Smile Shutter technology captures a smile the moment it happens. A built-in instruction guide enables you to search the camera’s functions according to your needs wherever you may be.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Beautifully detailed images.
  • 5x Optical Zoom provided by Sony Lens.
  • SteadyShot image stabilization reduces blur.
  • Capture your videos in 720p HD Movie mode.
  • Easy mode with a simplified camera menu.
  • Optical sensor resolution of 5 MP.

Pros

  • Easier to use and uncomplemented on/off.
  • Shutter, zoom, and menu buttons make it easier to use.
  • Long battery life.

Cons

  • Poor quality LCD.

4. YI 4K - BEST 4K CAMERA FOR YOUTUBE VIDEO

YI 4K - best cheap camera for youtube

YI 4K Action Camera presents impressive footage of you and your world. It combines 4K30 video recording, integrated touchscreen, and up to two hours of battery life. It has amazing features to offers and that is why it holds the first position in my list of best cheap camera for youtube.

It is built with the new generation Ambarella A9SE75 chip, Sony IMX377 image sensor, and seven layers of all glass lenses. It can record 4K/30fps at 60mbps, 4x the quality of 1080p. It features an impact-resistant Gorilla Glass 2.19 inches LCD touchscreen allowing you to shoot and preview with the touch of a finger.

It supports first-class encoding and delivers 3840 x 2160 ultra-clear 4K video resolution and 12 MP photos even in low-light conditions. The YI uses the world's leading rechargeable 1200mAh high-voltage 4.4V lithium-ion battery, which allows it to record up to 120 minutes of 4K/30fps video in a single charge.

Its innovative heat management system helps release heat quickly to reduce overheating, while recording at high-resolution. Its compact and impact-resistant design enables it to fit in your pocket.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Video Recording quality includes 4K/30fps, 2.7k/60fps, 1080p/120fps, 720p/240fps.
  • Amarelle dual-core A9SE75 and Sony IMX377 built-in image sensor.
  • Advanced video stabilization.
  • Super smooth footage at 2. 7k/60fps.
  • Records almost 2 hrs of 4K/30Fps video in a single charge.
  • High-quality cooling system.
  • High responsive LCD Touchscreen.
  • 2. 2” screen with 640 x 360 high resolution.
  • Built-in Bluetooth and high-speed 5GHz/2. 4GHz Wi-Fi support.
  • Flexible settings help to produce good quality images even in low-light conditions.
  • Voice control.
  • Rechargeable battery of 1400mAh capacity.
  • USB Charging Port, USB cable, Memory Card Slot.
  • Latest Processor of Ambarella A9SE.

Pros

  • Excellent action camera under a great budget.
  • Built-in accessories and great software.
  • Voice command to switch off, take a photo, and various other functions.
  • Fisheye elimination is in-built.
  • Touchscreen enhances ease of use.
  • Image stabilization.

Cons

  • Images may be a little unclear.
  • Battery problems.

5. CANON VIXIA HF R800 - BEST CAMCORDER FOR YOUTUBE VIDEO

CANON VIXIA - best cheap camera for youtube

Moving on to the next best cheap camera for YouTube in my list comes the VIXIA HF R800 camcorder from Canon with amazing features like powerful zoom, Highlight Priority mode with backlight correction, and improved slow and fast recording options. They let you experiment with several ways to record.

The lightweight of the VIXIA HF R800 means you can keep it on hand to record whatever you want, whenever you want. It also features removable SD cards that provide quick and convenient sharing. The impressive 57x Advanced Zoom allows you to create videos with variety and is unlikely to disrupt the action you're shooting.

It is ideal for formal ceremonies, animals in the wild, candid family videos, and more. Its sophisticated SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer allows you to correct camera shake quickly, so even handheld video taken at long focal lengths can be sharp and steady. It helps ensure smooth, virtually distortion-free video, even when you're walking while shooting.

It is equipped with a 3.28 Megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor to capture your memories in true 1920 x 1080 resolution. It features extra sensitivity that delivers beautifully lifelike Full HD video with natural colour, even in low light. On-chip noise reduction brings vibrance to every frame.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 32x Optical /1140x Digital and Super range OIS.
  • Canon 3.28 MP full HD CMOS image sensor.
  • Signal level is 10 dB.
  • Frequency characteristic is ranged between 60 Hz to 16 kHz.
  • Digic DV 4 image processor.
  • Canon Connect Station CS100 is Compatible via USB.
  • Minimum Focusing Distance between 10mm and 1m across the zooming range.
  • Operating Temperature range is -5° to 45°C.

Pros

  • Pictures with HD 1920x1080 resolution.
  • HDMI output.
  • Very less or no noise and distortion.
  • Sharp, detailed video quality.
  • Customizable colour, stabilization and adjustment options.

Cons

  • Video playback is a little rough.
  • External microphone is required to talk or record sound.
  • No manual audio control level for an external mic input.

6. NIKON COOLPIX L32 DIGITAL CAMERA

NIKON COOLPIX - best cheap camera for youtube

Taking the sixth spot in my list of best cheap camera for youtube comes the stylish COOLPIX L32 Digital camera from Nikon, which makes taking great photos and videos a breeze. The smart portraits system allows you to take better selfies or pictures of friends, family, and pets. It has a dedicated movie record button, so you can capture 720p videos with sound.

You can even zoom in while you are recording – the electronic Vibration Reduction will keep your videos steady. You can also preview fun image effects on the camera's 3-inch LCD.

Face Priority AF finds and focuses on the faces. Skin Softening applies an attractive soft-focus effect. The camera can even take a photo automatically the instant someone smiles. The COOLPIX L32's 5x Zoom NIKKOR lens is great for everything from wide-angle group shots to close-up portraits.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 5x wide-angle NIKKOR zoom lens.
  • Smart Portrait System.
  • 720p HD video with sound.
  • Runs on regular AA batteries.
  • Comes with a large 3-inch LCD.
  • Optical zoom of 5x.
  • Weight: 5.76 ounces.

Pros

  • Battery voltage monitor.
  • Comes with a setting to use standard AA NiMH rechargeable batteries.
  • Good macro mode.
  • Easy to understand menus.
  • Indicators for on and off state.

Cons

  • No USB cables.
  • The battery door is fragile.

7. PANASONIC LUMIX ZS50 CAMERA

Panasonic Lumix ZS50 - best cheap camera for youtube

The Panasonic Lumix ZS50 is equipped with a wide range of imaging features. It can capture any subject, even in low-light and it is a best cheap camera for youtube if you are looking for a light weight and compact model.

Leica 24mm DC Vario-Elmar lens and durable 30x optical zoom allow you to bring the subject closer and more clearly. Even in low-light environments, you can capture more detail and less image noise with the new, larger pixel-size High Sensitivity MOS sensor and Venus Engine image processor.

The precision Live View Finder helps get the perfect shot. Its high 1.166k-dot resolution, with approximately 100% colour reproduction, delivers stable framing and superb visibility, in any light condition.

The lens-mounted Control Ring provides easier manual control for exposure, zoom and focus, leaving you free to concentrate on shutter operation. You can record with 100fps in HD resolution and 200fps in VGA. With high-speed video, you can record any fast-moving action and enjoy the video later in crystal-clear slow motion.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 12.1 MP sensor.
  • 30x 24mm LEICA DC Lens optical zoom.
  • Enhanced low light sensitivity.
  • Improved sharpness without a flash.
  • Built-in eye viewfinder to eliminate glare.
  • Light speed autofocus.
  • 10fps High-Speed Burst Shooting.
  • Digital Zoom is 4.0x.
  • Max Focal Length is 129.0mm.
  • Item Dimensions: 4.36 x 1.35 x 2.54 inches.
  • Video resolution is Full HD 1080p.
  • Comes with an electronic viewfinder.

Pros

  • 30x optical zoom.
  • Comes with a live viewfinder feature.
  • Several additional features.
  • Compact and lightweight.

Cons

  • Video record button options are limited.
  • The power button is too small.

8. SONY DSCHX80/B HIGH ZOOM POINT & SHOOT CAMERA

SONY DSCHX80/B - best cheap camera for youtube

As already told you dont need a expensive camera to shoot youtube videos. This DSCHX80/B camera from Sony managed to get into the best cheap camera for youtube list for its useful features. 

It comes with a pop-up electronic viewfinder for eye-level framing, and a 180° tilt screen for 18.2MP selfies. The low light Exmor R sensor and premium ZEISS lens with 5-axis image stabilization delivers stunning picture quality. 

The ZEISS T* coating on the lens reduces undesirable reflection, ghosting and flare on the lens surface. The 30x optical zoom enables you to get closer to your subject. With Clear Image Zoom, the BIONZ X processor compares patterns that are found in adjacent pixels and creates new pixels that match selected patterns, resulting in more realistic, higher-quality images.

Its high contrast and bright, pop-up OLED Tru-Finder with approximately 638k dots resolution allows you to capture vibrant and detailed photos. The use of aspherical lenses in the eyepiece raises performance and reduces size, while a convenient eye sensor switches automatically between EVF and LCD screen, for smooth operation.

The in-built Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to control your camera with your compatible Smartphone or Tablet. You can even transfer the images directly to your smartphone for quick editing and uploading.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 30x Optical and 60x Clear Image Zoom.
  • ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* Lens.
  • Superb low light images are clicked due to 18.2MP Exmor R CMOS Sensor.
  • Built-in retractable OLED.
  • Tru-finder viewfinder.
  • Versatile video with high-quality XAVC S.
  • AVCHD and MP4 formats.
  • Simple connectivity to smartphones through Wi-Fi and NFC.
  • 5-axis image stabilization to remove camera shake blur.
  • Extra Fine selfie-ready 3" LCD multi-angle display.
  • P/A/S/M modes.
  • Memory Recall mode and Customizable settings.
  • Focus Range Wide is 5 cm to  2.5 m.
  • Rechargeable Battery Pack NP-BX1.

Pros

  • Pop-up viewfinder.
  • Semi-tiltable flash.
  • 12 customizable functions in Quick menu.
  • Full PASM modes.
  • Monitor tilting by 180 degrees for selfies.

Cons

  • 4K video not present.
  • No touchscreen.

9. CANON POWERSHOT A2300

CANON POWERSHOT  - best cheap camera for youtube

Last but not least comes Canon powershot which is another best cheap camera. This compact and lightweight camera are packed with features that make it easy to get a beautiful shot every time. It's smart AUTO recognizes 32 different predefined shooting situations and automatically picks the right camera settings for you.

You will get extraordinary resolution and fast performance with the 16.0 MP Image Sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor. You can capture more dynamic and exciting images with the 5x Optical Zoom and 28mm Wide-Angle lens. New Digital IS significantly reduces blur by recognizing the main subject and applying the best camera shake correction.

The Smart AUTO detects scenes automatically by assessing various factors in the background and the subject. Detected scenes are analyzed using 32 shooting situations. The camera then makes the correct settings to ensure the best possible image capture while shooting still images.

Smart AUTO also includes Advanced Subject Detection, which allows the camera to detect and track non-human moving subjects like animals and vehicles.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • 16.0 MP Image Sensor.
  • 32 predefined shooting situations in Smart AUTO mode.
  • The Digital Image stabilization minimizes the effect of camera shake.
  • 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor.
  • 2.7-inch TFT colour LCD.
  • DIGIC 4 image processor.
  • Dedicated movie button for 720p HD video recording.
  • 28mm wide-angle lens that has 5x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom, and 20x combined zoom.
  • Digital image stabilizer with a wide-angle lens.

Pros

  • Easy to carry, compact.
  • Bootup speed is quick.
  • Inexpensive.

Cons

  • Picture quality is not very good.

Features you must consider while buying the best cheap camera for YouTube

These are the photography terms you’ll find in your camera’s manual and in most beginner tutorials. These glossary terms may vary based on the camera brand, so make sure to check the camera terminologies to avoid any confusions. Here are some of the important features that you should keep in mind; features that you absolutely cannot do without:

Autofocus

It is hard to adjust the focus manually when you are recording yourself for a YouTube video and doesn't come out well. This is why you need a cheap camera that has an autofocus feature so that focusing is done not only quickly but also automatically.

Flip out screen

Being a Youtuber, you might have to hold your camera in your hands away from you while recording yourself. If you use a camera with a flip-out screen, you can see what you record. This ensures whether you are recording it in the right way.

Stick to a brand

If you are planning to spend more on the camera accessories like lenses etc., then it is advisable to invest in a brand and then stick to it.

Image stabilization

Stabilization is crucial if you plan on capturing any movement while recording your videos. Using Steadicam or tripod will help you to improve video quality.

Low-light performance

Better low-light performance means that you won’t need to arrange for excessive lighting to shoot your videos accurately.

Even with these pre-defined features, you might still be confused as to which camera you should select, since a lot of the cameras available have similar characteristics in the same price range.

So check out the above given list if you are confused which best cheap camera for YouTube.

CONCLUSION

These are the best cheap cameras available in the market that you can use to shoot your YouTube videos. You will notice that all of these cameras have the three super-important features that I have mentioned earlier -Image stabilization,  auto-focus performance, and  low-light performance.

Apart from these, I have also focused on features like- lens quality, zooming capability, picture quality, ease of use, and portability.

I hope you’ve found what you were looking for in my list of best cheap camera for YouTube. Happy shooting!

Nicolas Gilli
 

Hi, I'm Nicholas Gilli, I'm a blogger who is very much interested in blogging about film-making gadgets. I have experience as a cinematographer in the film industry for more than 15 years. My blogs would comprise of articles about film making gadgets and guides on how to use them. Even if you are a beginner you will learn a lot about cinematography here. Happy reading.

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