Nikon D5300 and Canon EOS M50

10 Best VLOGGING Cameras Under 500$ FOR YOUTUBERS!

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Video Blogging – or vlogging has become a concept that rapidly entered our lives and is constantly on an elevation in recent years. You’ve seen those YouTube videos captioned as “vlogs”, right? If you haven’t, be sure to go ahead and see some of those to get the gist of what we’re talking about, because almost everyone is into vlogging today!

From every celebrity to teenagers, vlogging has become a new art. And to master this artistry, one should know how to start a vlog if it really wants to become a vlogger in the future. 

Camera brands have come with cameras offering high resolutions, smooth shots, and the ISO feature that allows you to capture excellent quality pictures in low light. And undoubtedly, a camera for vlogging is the most essential equipment one can get. 

But to find a camera at a reasonable price isn’t a cakewalk. You have to consider a ton of features before investing money into it. Therefore, this article covers the Best Vlogging Camera Under 500 to kill all the trouble for its readers. Grab one before it’s too late!

Comparison Table of 10 Picked Cameras

ImageProductDetailPrice
1. Nikon D3400

1. Nikon D3400

  • 1080/60p video
Check Price
2. GoPro Hero5

2. GoPro Hero5

  • 4K/30, 2.7K/60, 1080p/120 Video
Check Price
3. Canon EOS M200

3. Canon EOS M200

  • 4k up to 25 fps, 1080p up to 60 fps, or 720p up to 120 fps
Check Price
4. GoPro Hero9

4. GoPro Hero9

  • 5K at 30 fps, 4K at 60 fps, and 1080p at 120 fps
Check Price
5. Panasonic Lumix LX10

5. Panasonic Lumix LX10

  • UHD 4K up to 30 fps
Check Price
6. Panasonic LUMIX FZ300

6. Panasonic LUMIX FZ300

  • HD 4K up to 30 fps
Check Price
7. DJI Pocket 2

7. DJI Pocket 2

  • 4K UHD up to 60fps
Check Price
8. Ordro AZ50

8. Ordro AZ50

  • UHD 4K up to 30fps, FHD 1080P up to 60 fps
Check Price
9. Canon EOS M200

9. Canon EOS M200

  • 4k up to 25 fps, 1080p up to 60 fps
Check Price
10. GoPro MAX

10. GoPro MAX

  • HERO Mode 1440p60 / 1080p60
Check Price

1. Nikon D3400

  • With this camera, you can shoot five frames per second with 100 jpeg photos.
  • It has a powerful battery that allows you to take up to 1200 pictures with one charge.
  • It has a video resolution of 1080p at an excellent speed of 50/60p.
  • It comes with an ISO sensitivity that ranges from 100 to 12800 (25600 extended)

Due to its valuable features, NIKON D3400 is among the best vlogging cameras under 500. It comes with a guided mode that is valuable for people who are new to the field. Though it is a camera for beginners, it allows you to shoot 100 jpeg photos at five frames per second.

NIKON D3400 has several (eleven to be precise) autofocus (AF) points that help focus while taking a photo. This camera comes with a technology known as Snapbrige that allows the camera to connect with the smartphone. It has a lens of 24.2 megapixels for capturing good-quality images.

It has a powerful battery that enables a maximum of 1200 images per single charge. So this camera is suitable for short-term trips as well. It has a 3 inch LED screen that can be tilter for taking quality pictures. It features an Expeed 4 processor of the new generation that helps the camera retain more details of an image or video.

As far as the film’s sensitivity is concerned, this camera has an excellent ISO range of 100 to 25600. Moreover, it has a decent video resolution of 1080p at a superb speed of 50 to 60p. So, with the help of this camera, you can make vlogs without having to worry about the video quality.

Pros

  • Snapbridge technology
  • Expeed 4 processor
  • 3″ LCD screen with a tilt function
  • Guided mode

Cons

  • No microphone port

2. GoPro Hero5

  • It comes with a 2″ touch screen and built-in voice control support in seven different languages.
  • It captures a video at 4K resolution and an image at 12 megapixels.
  • It has a built-in GPS that allows the camera to track the locations automatically.
  • It allows you to shoot time-lapses at several intervals that making it perfect for vlogging.

Due to its professional look and easy usage, GoPro Hero5 is among the best vlogging camera under 500. With the help of this camera, you can make 4K videos at 30 frames per second. It has a lens of 12 megapixels to capture excellent quality images. Moreover, it has an auto-upload system that uploads the images/videos to your GoPro account when the camera is on charging.

Key Specifications

BrandGoPro
Form FactorIce-cubed size
Item Weight4.2 ounces
ColorBlack

It comes with a 2-inch touchscreen to control the camera’s focus and make the camera user-friendly. Moreover, it has a built-in audio control system support in seven different languages, by which you can easily control the settings of the camera. 

This camera comes with an ISO range of 400 to 6400. It also allows you to shoot time-lapses at several intervals such as 05, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60 seconds. Moreover, you can shoot comprehensive angle videos and photos with the help of a GoPro Hero 5Digital camera.

It is a waterproof camera that can shoot videos and capture photos up to 10 meters in the water. It has automatic GPS tracking that tracks the location without any difficulty. It also supports audio formats, so now you can capture a video with smooth audio. Furthermore, you can also play back and trim your videos with the help of this camera.

Pros

  • Supports the audio format
  • Built-in SD card slot
  • ISO range from 400-6400
  • Waterproof up to 33 feet

Cons

  • Digital grains during sunlight

3. Canon EOS M200

  • It captures 4K videos at 25 fps and has a 24.1 megapixels camera to take photos.
  • It has a dedicated self-portrait mode that incorporates a series of valuable tools.
  • It comes with a touch screen that tilts to capture wide-angle views.
  • It is equipped with DIGIC 8 image processor to deliver high quality and fast camera performance.

If you are a beginner and wondering about the best vlogging camera under $500, then Canon EOS M200 is your best bet. It is a mirror-less digital camera with a versatile look and comes with a 1-year seller warranty. It has a lens of 24.1 megapixels to captures still videos and images and has an APS-C CMOS sensor.

Key Specifications

BrandCanon intl.
Form FactorMirrorless
Item Weight80 ounces
ColorBlack

You can capture 4K videos at 25 frames per second, 1080p at 70 fps, and 720p at 120 fps with the help of this camera. You can set the resolution of the video before shooting it. Moreover, it enables you to make 4K time lapses, making this camera the best choice for vlogging.

Canon EOS M200 has a DIGIC 8 image processor to deliver high-quality performances. This feature also allows you to make videos at a fast rate without any lagging. Moreover, this camera has an ISO range from 100 to 25600 to capture a high-quality image in low lights.

It has a self-portrait mode that includes various tools such as a blurred background, smooth skin, and a self-timer to help you take proper selfies. Also, it has a touch screen that can also tilt to assist you in capturing wide-angle videos and photos.

Pros

  • Mirrorless Digital Camera
  • 1-year seller warranty
  • ISO range of 100-25600
  • Self-timer

Cons

  • Limited lens range

4. GoPro Hero9

  • It allows you to capture 5K videos up to 30 frames per second.
  • It comes with a Hypersmooth 3.0 stabilization to stabilize the videos and images.
  • It has a 2.27″ touchscreen with a 1.4″ color display, which is helpful for vloggers.
  • Due to its removable lens cover, it allows you to add a Max Lens Mod accessory

GoPro Hero9 Camera comes with a 2.27-inch touchscreen to assist you in capturing videos and images. It has a built-in audio control system that supports seven different languages. Moreover, it features a 1.4-inch color sensor at the front, making it the best vlogging camera for under 500 dollars.

Key Specifications

BrandGoPro
Form FactorCompact
Item Weight5.6 ounces
ColorBlack

It has a Hyper smooth 3.0 feature to provide extra stabilization to your videos and images. Moreover, a TimeWarp 3.0 effect is also there to add a speed ramp to your video that slows it down and adds some audio in it. It comes with a powerful battery of 1720mAh battery.

You can capture 5K videos up to 30 fps, 4K videos up to 60 fps, and 1080p up to 120 fps with the help of a GoPro Hero9 camera. It has a lens of 23.6 megapixels to capture 5K videos and a 20 megapixels sensor to captures stills. 

GoPro Hero9 camera allows you to add Max Lens Mod accessory that helps you capture ultra-wide 155 degrees super view mode. Moreover, the default maximum ISO of GoPro Hero9 is 3200 for images and 1600 for videos, and the default minimum is 100 for both videos and pictures.

Pros

  • TimeWrap 3.0 effect
  • 23.6 MP sensor
  • 1720mAh battery
  • Dual-Battery Charger

Cons

  • The touchscreen isn’t smooth

5. Panasonic Lumix LX10

  • It features a 20.1 MP CMOS sensor and ISO sensitivity range from 100-25600.
  • It also has an upgraded setting for low light autofocus and Starlight autofocus.
  • It comes with a built-in flash with a 40-feet wide-angle range of the lens.
  • It allows you to capture UHD 4k videos at 30 frames per second.

Even though Panasonic Lumix LX10 is a low-budget camera but it still is a good camera for vlogging. It comes with a lens of 20.1 megapixels and a CMOS sensor to capture high-quality videos and images. This camera’s default ISO sensitivity range is from 100 to 25600 to capture low-light pictures.

Key Specifications

BrandPanasonic
Form FactorCompact
Item Weight10.9 ounces
ColorBlack

This camera includes Light-Speed autofocus with DFD technology. This technology allows the focus point to be put anywhere in the view. Moreover, it also has updated autofocus settings for low-light autofocusing, Starlight autofocusing, and peek focus.

Panasonic LUMIX LX10 allows you to capture 4K videos up to 30 fps at maximum. It comes with sensor-based and optical image stabilization to provide 4K stabilization to your videos. You can also produce a 4K resolution frame from a 4K video recording using this camera.

It has a 40-feet range built-in flash to capture good-quality images and videos. It comes with a 3-inch touchscreen that can tilt up to 180 degrees. Moreover, it has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity to make image uploading easier and quicker.

Pros

  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • 3-inch LCD touchscreen
  • Panasonic DFD technology
  • Clear wide-angle shots

Cons

  • No Hot Shoe

6. Panasonic LUMIX FZ300

  • The camera features 4k HD video resolution using 30 frames per seconds
  • The Leica DC Vario Elmarit lens allows the camera a 24x full zoom 
  • The 12.1 Megapixel high sensitivity MOS sensor helps capture high-quality pictures
  • The 5-axis image stabilizer reduces any blurriness from the video 
  • The Waterproof design seals the dial and buttons from every corner to protect the camera 

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300 should be your go-to camera for your next vlogging expedition; it’s one of the best vlogging cameras under 500 in any situation and anywhere. The camera measures 132 x 92 x 117mm and weighs 1.5 lbs. It features a splash-proof and dustproof design perfect for outdoor photography, especially in a wildlife setting or anywhere in nature.

Key Specifications

BrandPanasonic
Form FactorSLR-like-compact
Item Weight1.52 lbs.
ColorBlack

The camera is equipped with Venus Engine technology and a 12.1-megapixel high sensitivity sensor that offers greater noise removal at high ISO settings and 4k video recording at 30 frames per second. The camera features the Leica DC lens allowing the user to take pictures with a 24x zoom facility.

This camera also features a 5-Axis HYBRID Optical Image Stabilizer that compensates for five types of movement to decrease distortion from one-handed video filming. Even if the camera is slanted, the Level Shot Function identifies and maintains the horizon line, providing you with your desired results.

The camera has a fixed f2; 8 aperture, which helps you capture the same amount of light at its widest angle as it does when zoomed in, which is hard to find in cameras in this price range  If your photography needs don’t go beyond 600mm. You value the water and dust sealing, 4K video, and a lightning-fast AF system; the FZ300 is an excellent option for you.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Dust and Waterproof design
  • High quality results even in low lighting
  • 4k video and picture resolution

Cons

  • No Wi-Fi-connectivity

7. DJI Pocket 2

  • The camera features a 3-axis gimbal that stabilizes it for smooth video on the go
  • The 1/1.7-inch sensor helps to capture images with 64MP photo and 4K video
  • The camera offers four different microphones to record audio from different directions
  • The wide-angle lens allows you to capture high-quality pictures even in low light

The DJI Pocket 2 is a mighty small action camera that can produce incredibly flawless 4K footage thanks to its Smooth stabilization feature. This camera is the best vlogging camera under 500. It features a three-axis gimbal technology that helps to keep the camera steady, even for long-exposure pictures and in low-light conditions, if you film a lot of outdoor-style vlogging clips.

Key Specifications

BrandDJI
Form FactorCompact
Item Weight4.1 ounces
ColorBlack

The DJI Pocket 2 features an enhanced 1/1.7-inch sensor, a wide-angle lens, and a broader field of vision, allowing you to capture 64MP photos and 4K videos. The wide 20mm f/1.8 lens further contributes to you take vibrant cinematic images.

The camera features four built-in microphones for better sound recording in multiple directions and Audio Zoom and Sound effects features, which improve audio quality depending on the order and focus of the camera. The enhanced microphones negate the need to hold the camera near your face when chatting to the camera.

DJI Pocket 2 is a tiny camera that enables you to record memorable events on your own. It’s pocket-sized and incredibly compact. Pocket 2 provides vloggers with the flexibility to create magic at their fingertips by stabilizing camera movement and taking explicit photos and smooth recordings.

Pros

  • Incredibly compact
  • Four different microphones
  • Wide-angle lens
  • 3-axis gimbal

Cons

  • Not ideal for low light situations

8. Ordro AZ50

  • The camera features an in-built 3000mAh High Power Panel Video Light allowing long hours of use
  • The camera uses a 1/2.3-inch-high sensitivity CMOS sensor to improve video resolution
  • The camera has infrared night vision to take images in low visibility environments
  • The 3.1-inch IPS touch screen helps to provide good image quality
  • The camera features a 2 in 1 HD 72mm l 0.39x wide-angle lens for better video resolution

 The Ordro AZ50 camera is an excellent camera for vlogging. It uses a 1/2.3-inch-high sensitivity CMOS sensor, same as any Sony camera, to increase the image magnification while decreasing noise, and restoring high-dynamic-range 4K photos. The camera also offers high-resolution 4K video output, with a maximum video recording frame rate of 30 frames per second, promising the desired result.

Key Specifications

BrandORDRO
Form FactorModern 
Item Weight54 pounds
ColorBlack

The camera features a 3.1 IPS touch screen, improving the color performance of the pictures; not just this, but it also allows you to adjust the color temperature for the most accurate color performance. Users can also enjoy capturing clear and visible pictures in low-light circumstances at night. The infrared night vision feature allows you to view objects without the need for lights in total darkness.

The camera features a 2 in 1 HD 72mm l 0.39x wide-angle lens. This interchangeable lens is simpler to use and suitable for ORDRO camcorders. You can now easily capture a greater image area without blurriness using this camera. It aids in enhancing the image’s appeal and the capture of the overall picture.

The unique thing about this camera is that it comes with a High-Power Video panel, a 3000mAh battery, and a color temperature range of 2700K to 6500K. The camera offers numerous interfaces for connecting multiple accessories while remaining portable.

Pros

  • 3.1 IPS touch screen
  • 4k video resolution and 30fps
  • Low light video capturing
  • Wide-angle lens

Cons

  • No flip side screen

9. Canon EOS M200

  • It includes a 24.1-megapixel camera for taking images and takes 4K videos at 25 frames per second. 
  •  It has a touch screen that tilts to capture wide-angle views.
  • It has a DIGIC 8 image processor, which ensures high-quality and quick camera performance.
  • It has a specialized self-portrait mode with a range of valuable functions.

The Canon EOS M200 is your best pick if you’re looking for the best vlogging camera under $500. It’s a mirrorless digital camera with a stylish design. With its 24.1-megapixel camera, you can take 4K videos at 25 frames per second. You can choose the video’s resolution before filming it. It also allows you to create 4K time lapses, making it the best camera for vlogging.

Key Specifications

BrandCannon Intl.
Form FactorMirrorless
Item Weight6 pounds
ColorBlack

The camera features a DIGIC 8 image processor that ensures high-quality results. This function also enables you to create videos quickly and without delay. Furthermore, this camera’s ISO ranges from 100 to 25600, allowing it to shoot high-quality images in low-light situations. It has a 24.1-megapixel lens for still photographs and videos, as well as an APS-C CMOS sensor.

It contains a self-portrait mode with features such as a blurred background, smooth skin, and a self-timer to assist you in taking excellent selfies. It also boasts a tiltable touch screen that helps you capture wide-angle videos and images.

Pros

  • A wide-angle lens
  • You can shoot high-quality videos
  • Capture self-portraits
  • Tiltable touch screen

Cons

  • No AF system

10. GoPro MAX

  • The camera provides you with ultimate stabilization with its 180-degree capture
  • The camera offers a live streaming option in 1080p
  • The camera allows horizon levelling in HERO mode to capture cinematic shots
  • The camera features four digital lenses to get the image of your liking

The Go Pro Max isn’t just another camera; it is a 3 in 1 camera that maximizes your creative capacity. It is not only an action camera but also a capable selfie vlogging cam, with the rear camera and screen operating in sync, and there are six microphones on board for a more complete, directional audio capture. As a result, it isn’t attempting to be the best vlogging camera, but rather the only camera you’d want for your vlogging adventures.

Key Specifications

BrandGoPro
Form FactorMax + Carrying Case
Item Weight1.12 pounds
ColorBlack

By utilizing 180-degree capture as the ultimate backup, the camera provides unbreakable stabilization. It also supports live streaming in 1080p, so you can now shoot your videos in the HERO mode and upload your footage right away, thanks to the Wi-Fi connectivity. The GoPro software also lets you save the film to your SD card for later viewing.

The PowerPano option allows you to take 270-degree panoramic photos in full HD quality without any distortion or anything. It also enables you to take pictures without having to level the horizon scale.

In HERO mode, the camera supports horizon leveling, which gives you a luscious cinematic image, whether you’re flipping through the air, executing a sideways jump, or hoping to catch the sunrise. Now you can opt for four digital lenses in the HERO mode to get your preferred shot.

Pros

  • Take panoramic pictures without blurriness
  • Hero mode option
  • Horizon leveling feature
  • 3 in 1 camera features

Cons

  • No Hot shoe

Buying Guide

Vlogging is catching on like a wildfire in a desert. People are now attempting to achieve success through vlogging. If you are a newbie and have a $500 budget, you can quickly get a great vlogging camera to create vibrant photographs and movies for your vlogs. Let’s look at some of the main features that you need to ponder on before buying one:

Camera Resolution

The main reason for buying a vlogging camera is to shoot high-resolution videos with it. A camera with a 4K video resolution and a 60-frame rate is excellent since it allows you to record videos in slow motion. Even 1080p HD video quality is considered sufficient for vlogging, especially for beginners.

Lens Selection

The type of lens you choose will be determined by what camera you purchase and from which brand. If you buy a digital camera, you’ll be limited to using the lens that came with it. But if you opt for a wireless or DSLR camera, you will have access to a variety of lenses options. Choose a lens with optical zoom since it offers the best results and gives the most accurate image magnification.

DSLR and compact cameras also offer easily replaceable lenses, which allow you to acquire lenses that suit your vlogging style and give you more control by providing you a constant focus or an ultra-wide focal length.

ISO Feature

ISO is a camera setting that increases the camera’s sensitivity to light; in simple words, the higher the ISO, the more accurate picture your camera will capture in light. However, a higher ISO can reduce video quality. These options are dependent on the type of blog you’re creating and are not a problem if you have complete control over your lighting because you’ll have enough light to use a lower ISO. 

In-built Microphone

Video sound quality is more crucial than video image quality. A video’s sound quality may make or break it, which can be detrimental to your vlogging channel.  You may require a different sort of microphone depending on the form of vlog you want to create.

Camera Size

Camera size is an important consideration when purchasing a vlogging camera. If you create vlogs from your desk or place the camera somewhere, the size is not an issue. However, if you plan on walking a lot though, consider the size and weight of the camera, lens, and other equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do You Need A Camera for Vlogging?

Smartphones can provide quality content to some extent, but you need an actual vlogging camera to make your vlog look attractive. A smartphone camera does not help you in capturing the details of the frame. However, you can make a high-quality video with full details with the help of a camera. 

Which is the Best Vlogging Camera under 500?

Although it depends on your preferences, if you want to select the best vlogging camera based on features, then GoPro Hero9 is your best bet. You can capture 5K videos with the help of it. Nikon D3400 is also an excellent compact DSLR camera, but Hero9 is small and lightweight so that you can store it in your pocket.

Are Vlogging cameras preferred for taking pictures?

Vlogging Cameras are preferable for capturing videos. Although you can take pictures using vlogging cameras, they are not preferable in doing so. Vlogging cameras do not help in taking photos at high resolution. They are specialized in capturing videos at 4K resolution. 

Conclusion

Vlogging has grown incredibly recently, and beginners are looking for the best vlogging camera under 500. We have covered some of the best vlogging cameras under 500 in this article to solve this problem. So, all you need to do is gather the information you want about the cameras and pick one from the above!   

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