The Best Video Camera for Beginners in 2023 [Reviewed]

Are you looking to create professional-level videos but don’t know where to start?

As an indie filmmaker myself, I know that shopping for gear as a newbie videographer or filmmaker is not easy, especially if you’re in the market for a cost-efficient, beginner-friendly camera.

With many specifications and features to consider, from camera type to video resolution and battery life, the hunt for the best camera can be overwhelming.

To help you take one step closer to your creative endeavors, we’ll narrow down your options by highlighting our top 10 videography cameras for beginners.

If you’re serious about taking your video production game up a notch this year, this review will give you all the information needed to find the best beginner video camera without spending too much money or getting overwhelmed by technical jargon.

Let’s start by looking at what is essential when choosing a video camera for beginners!

How to Choose the Best Beginner Camera

Though there are many aspects that you could consider when shopping for a video camera, as a beginner, you should focus on the following factors:

Type of Camera

Firstly, you want to figure out the type of camera you’re looking for.

For videography, you have four options: mirrorless cameras, DSLR video cameras, point-and-shoot cameras, and camcorders.

Mirrorless Cameras

Out of the four types, mirrorless cameras are considered the most advanced. They’re perfect for filming quick-moving objects, thanks to their exceptional auto-focus capabilities.

Though smaller than DSLR video cameras, mirrorless cameras can deliver superior filming quality. This can be attributed to the fact that these cameras don’t rely on a mirror for image processing.

As you’ve probably guessed, though, these cameras are the most expensive of the bunch. Nonetheless, there are some wallet-friendly options on the market.

DSLR Cameras

DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) cameras have been around for a while. The prototype for the first DSLR camera was revealed in 1986, courtesy of Nikon.

Even though they’re bulkier and aren’t as good for video quality, DSLR cameras are considerably more popular than their mirrorless counterparts.

The reason behind their popularity is their versatility. DSLR cameras are perfect for several use cases and can be used in many environments. They’re particularly useful in low-light conditions!

Another huge selling point for DSLR video cameras is their interchangeable lenses. You can easily alter the look and feel of your videos by changing the type of lens you’re using.

Point-and-Shoot Cameras

Designed for ease of operation, point-and-shoot cameras—abbreviated to P&S—are compact and lightweight options that are more affordable than mirrorless and DSLR video cameras.

With this type of camera, you don’t have to worry about exposure and focus, as they’re adjusted automatically. This makes P&S cameras an excellent choice for beginner videographers.

Camcorders

Camcorders, short for camera recorders, are recording devices used to capture live-motion video and audio. They’re typically compact and have a strap around your hand for easy use.

Camcorders are mostly a thing of the past compared to the three other types mentioned above. Regardless, we can’t deny this type of camera’s convenience in certain situations.

Resolution

The resolution of a video camera is directly proportional to the magnification capabilities of its sensor. Larger camera sensors tend to capture higher-quality footage with less noise, more light, and more detail.

As a beginner videographer, you don’t need the highest video resolution. You can produce quality work using an HD (720p) or Full-HD (1080p) camera.

If your budget allows it and you’re looking for higher resolution, you can go for a mirrorless or DSLR video camera that can record with 2K or even 4K resolution.

Battery Life

As opposed to photography, videography requires a lot of battery juice. If your camera’s battery life is subpar, you’ll find yourself on an empty charge 20-30 minutes into the recording.

On that account, you should prioritize battery life in your hunt for a video camera. You should note that DSLR video cameras are considered the best in this category.

Budget

Last but not least, you need to consider your budget. If money isn’t much of an issue, you should opt for a beginner-friendly mirrorless or DSLR video camera.

If you’re limited by a tight budget, on the other hand, you could look into buying a point-and-shoot camera or a camcorder since they’re more affordable. Check out this article on the best video cameras for those on a budget!

What Are the Best Video Cameras for Beginners?

Now, let’s jump into our reviews of the best video cameras for beginners.

Overview

The Panasonic LUMIX GH5 is a hefty yet compact mirrorless video camera that weighs around 1.6 pounds. It has a matte black finish, a slim body, and an ergonomic handgrip for ease of use.

This camera’s video recording is available at 4K resolution, with a standard aspect ratio of 16:9 or 2:1 at up to 60 FPS. Moreover, you can record at 6K resolution in an aspect ratio of 4:3 at up to 30 FPS.

With this video camera, you can output uncompressed video at an impressive 10-bit 4:2:2 quality, thanks to the full-size HDMI port. This allows for real-time monitoring using a pro-grade display.

You can record at the same quality as a memory card as well. However, you’ll notice some mild compression. Still, the quality will be quite remarkable.

The LUMIX GH5 features in-body stabilization, meaning that any lens you use will stabilize nicely. This allows you to use almost any lens, from legacy glass to modern cinema lenses.

It’s worth noting that the camera features a built-in microphone. However, the microphone’s omnidirectional pickup pattern makes it a bit inconvenient since it picks up sound from all around.

Top Features

• 20-megapixel Four-Thirds sensor (no optical low pass filter)
• Internal 4K/30p 10-bit 4:2:2 video capture
• 4K footage using the full width of the sensor
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization system
• 1080p to 180p, with 7.5x slow-motion
• Advanced DFD autofocus
• Autofocus point joystick
• Dual UHS-II card slots (V60-ready)
• Waveform and vectorscope monitors
• 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC

Pricing

The Panasonic LUMIX GH5 costs just under $1,500, making it one of the most expensive options. It stands out from the competition by offering unrivaled video shooting capabilities and solid image quality.

Bottom Line

The Panasonic LUMIX GH5, in our experience, is the ultimate video camera for beginners. This camera is a clear-cut winner if you want to shoot in superlative 4K quality with reliable in-body stabilization.

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Overview

If you’re in the market for a vlogging camera, you can’t go wrong with the Sony ZV-1 digital camera. Thanks to its superb autofocus system, you can use it to shoot high-quality videos on the move or at home.

Some features that make this camera ideal for vloggers include a side-opening LCD touchscreen, a three-capsule internal directional mic with a bundled windshield, and the Soft Skin Effect mode.

In terms of video quality, this camera can shoot in crisp 4K resolution at 30 FPS. Note that this camera’s video footage is oversampled before being downsampled to 4K, making it sharper and more detailed.

Seeing as the camera features a CMOS sensor, you’d expect some rolling shutter and skewed lines with quick panning, but at 4K/30FPS, the Sony ZV-1 doesn’t seem to have this issue.

What we like the most about this camera is the built-in ND filter, which does an excellent job of keeping most movements and transitions smooth in bright lighting conditions.

That said, the camera does struggle in low-light conditions, considering the sensor is only 1 inch in size. As far as stills, the ZV-1 is a capable camera, offering bags of detail in images and well-controlled noise up to ISO 800.

Top Features

• 20-megapixel 1-inch BSI CMOS sensor
• 24-70mm equivalent F1.8-2.8 lens
• 8-bit. Log and ‘HLG’ shooting modes
• 4K/30p, 1080p/120p, and high-speed modes up to 960fps
• Fully articulating, 921K dot, 3-inch touchscreen display
• Allows for USB charging even in use
• Directional three-capsule microphone with windscreen
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for video and image transfer
• Reliable autofocus in video and stills
• Rated at 260 shots per single charge

Pricing

Priced just under $800, the Sony ZV-1 provides a lot of value for the money. It’s not perfect by any means, but for vlogging and content creation, it’ll get the job done beautifully.

Bottom Line

From its compact design and side-flipping screen to its bright lens and class-leading autofocus, the Sony ZV-1 is the ultimate video camera for beginner vloggers and content creators at the sub-$1,000 price point. It’s also great when used with a portable green screen!

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Overview

The Nikon D3500 is one of the most popular DSLR video cameras for beginners. It’s suitable for videography and photography, with an APS-C CMOS sensor at 24.78 megapixels.

The sensor on the Nikon D3500 is considerably larger than the sensors found in most other compact cameras. Moreover, the camera has an excellent ISO sensitivity range of 100 to 25,600.

One of the strongest selling points of this camera is that it can shoot videos at 60/50p and 30/25p. There are also quite a few other low-resolution recording options.

The D3500 features a 3-inch display with decent resolution. The display is fixed, sitting flush with the camera’s body. Unfortunately, the camera lacks touchscreen functionality.

The D3500’s viewfinder does a great job of delivering clear, bright views with on-point color accuracy. Regarding autofocus, it’s reliable for static objects, but it can struggle when tracking a moving subject.

The main downside to buying the Nikon D3500 is the lack of a microphone port. You’ll have to rely on the unit’s built-in monaural microphone, which can be a deal-breaker.

Top Features

• 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• 921k-dot fixed LCD screen
• 11-point autofocus system (optical viewfinder)
• EXPEED 4 image processor
• Shoots continuously at 5 FPS
• Can shoot 1080/60p video
• Bluetooth for image transfer
• Rated at 1,550 shots per charge
• ISO range of 100 to 25,600
• Excellent image and video resolution

Pricing

Priced at under $900, the Nikon D3500 delivers a good deal of value that comes in the form of excellent image and video resolution, as well as user-friendliness.

Bottom Line

Though it’s not the most capable or feature-rich camera on the list, the Nikon D3500 will serve you well if you’re looking for a camera that can deliver excellent results in photography and videography.

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Overview

If mirrorless and DSLR video cameras are out of your budget, the Panasonic Full-HD Video Camera Camcorder (HC-V785K) is worth checking out. It offers excellent video shooting capabilities at a reasonable price.

There’s a lot to like about this camcorder. For starters, it boasts twin-camera operation, allowing you to connect to your smartphone via Wi-Fi and use it as a secondary camera.

Twin-camera operation also allows you to shoot from alternate angles or distances simultaneously. This will surely come in handy if you want to capture picture-in-picture images.

Regarding video recording, this camcorder’s HDR movie mode delivers crisp and clear footage by suppressing blown highlights and blocking overpowering shadows while maintaining gradation.

You can shoot Full-HD videos with this camcorder at up to 240 FPS. You can also switch to slow motion while recording with a simple touch on the camcorder’s LCD screen.

Other noteworthy features that set this camcorder apart include its high-speed precision autofocus, five-axis HYBRID OIS for reduced blurring, level shot functionality for tilt correction, and a multi-manual dial for ease of use.

Top Features

• 1/2.3-inch BSI sensor (back-illuminated)
• Full-HD video recording and 24-megapixel stills
• 20x optical and 50x intelligent zoom range
• High dynamic range (HDR) video recording
• Wireless twin-camera operation
• Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
• HYBRID OIS five-axis image stabilization
• Clear details in bright and dark conditions
• 1080p slow-motion video up to 240 FPS
• Plenty of built-in filter effects

Pricing

Priced at around $500, the Panasonic Full-HD Camcorder surely offers a lot. Granted, it doesn’t provide the most impressive video resolution, but at this price point, it’s more than enough for a beginner.

Bottom Line

The Panasonic Full-HD Video Camera Camcorder is ideal for beginner videographers on a tight budget. This video camera is for you if DSLR and mirrorless cameras are unattainable.

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Overview

In terms of value for the money, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is arguably the best option on the list. This is a sub-$1,000 mirrorless video camera that flaunts a video capture resolution of 4K/24p. Need we say more?

Though it’s a mirrorless camera, the EOS M50 Mark II is designed like a mini-DSLR. It’s quite compact, yet it’s equipped with a substantial grip designed with comfort and ergonomics in mind.

We like how bright and responsive this camera’s touchscreen is. It’s easy to navigate even when shooting in bright conditions. It’s one of the best fully-articulating touchscreens we’ve come across.

Though it can record videos in 4K quality, this camera excels when recording in 1080p. Unless you’re right next to your subject, you’ll find the camera’s focus in 4K mode a bit unreliable.

In 1080p mode, you can activate the dual-pixel autofocus feature to eye-track your subject. We should also note that the camera does an admirable job in poor lighting conditions and tackles vertical video recording excellently.

Regarding image quality, you enjoy vibrantly-colored JPEGs with great contrast and details. You won’t have to edit your JPEGs heavily for them to be social-media-ready.

Top Features

• 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• Dual-pixel autofocus with eye tracking
• 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder
• 7.4 FPS bursts (continuous autofocus)
• 4K 24p inter-frame video recording
• Fully articulated LCD touchscreen
• Digic 8 image processor
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
• Canon EOS Webcam Utility for webcam use
• Wireless YouTube live-streaming capability

Pricing

Listed at around $700, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a 4K mirrorless video camera that provides as much value as the Canon EOS M50 Mark II at this price point.

Bottom Line

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a reliable entry-level mirrorless camera that’s perfect for content creators and vloggers who want to shoot high-quality stills and videos without spending too much.

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Overview

Equipped with the X-T3’s 26-megapixel sensor, the Fujifilm X-T30, a mirrorless digital camera, can tackle almost any photography or videography task with absolute grace.

With this camera, you can shoot in 4K resolution (DCI or UHS) at 30 FPS, with a much higher bit rate than most other cameras in its class. Out of all 8-bit cameras, the X-T30 delivers the most tonal data.

Unenhanced, the Fujifilm X-T30 can shoot at 8-bit 4:2:0. If you pair it with an external recorder, you can step things up to 10-bit 4:2:2. No other camera on this list offers this feature.

If you’re looking for more frames per second and don’t mind compromising on video resolution, you can shoot in Full-HD resolution at 120 FPS with this mirrorless camera.

One of the features that help set Fujifilm cameras is their film simulations, which are tone and color calibration profiles that accurately mimic the profiles of popular film types.

You’ll surely appreciate the color data and contrast that this mirrorless camera can deliver up to ISO 12,800. Generally, the higher the ISO, the better this camera performs.

Top Features

• 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans BSI-CMOS 4 sensor
• Hybrid AF system with 425 phase-detect points
• 3-inch tilting touchscreen display
• X-Processor 4 quad-core processor
• 2.36M-dot OLED viewfinder
• DCI and UHD 4K/30p capture (full width)
• Joystick for AF point selection
• Burst shooting at 30 FPS with no blackout
• Eterna Film Simulation mode
• USB-C socket with headphone support

Pricing

A brand-new Fujifilm X-T30 is listed at around $1,000 in most outlets, making it one of the more premium options on the list, alongside the Panasonic LUMIX GH5.

Bottom Line

If money isn’t an issue and you’re searching for a premium camera that outperforms almost every other camera in its class, the powerful Fujifilm X-T30 is right up your alley.

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Overview

The Alpha A6400 from Sony is yet another mirrorless camera you should check out if you’re not looking to go beyond the $1,000 price point. It’s a more refined version of the A6300.

Though it uses the same 24-megapixel sensor that its predecessor (A6300) uses, the A6400 boasts quite a few enhancements that set it apart, from its new Bionz X processor to its superior autofocus.

With the Alpha A6400, you can film in 4K resolution and enjoy a ton of detail. The camera has a flip-up screen and a range of capture aids that help make shooting easier, especially for vloggers.

In 4K/24p or 4K/25p, there won’t be any cropping. However, at 4K/30p, you’ll notice a slight 1.2x cropping in your footage. Note that at 4K, your videos will be downsampled from higher-resolution capture.

This video camera features a microphone socket for high-quality audio. It doesn’t feature a headphone socket, though. What’s more, there are audio meters that you can use for audio monitoring.

As far as capturing stills, the A6400 is pretty much the same as the A6300 in its raw performance. It’s notably better than the A6300 in JPEG format, offering more vibrant colors and better noise reduction.

Top Features

• 24MP APS-C sensor
• 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder
• New Bionz X processor
• Tilting screen (180 degrees up and 90 degrees down)
• 4K/30p video capturing
• 11 FPS burst shooting and 8 FPS with silent shutter
• Interval shooting functionality
• ISO range from 100 to 32,000
• 425-pt phase-detection AF system (real-time tracking)
• Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth connectivity

Pricing

Camera only, the Sony Alpha A6400 costs around $900. It’s a mirrorless camera, after all. If you buy it with a lens, the price will go up. Paired with a 16-50mm lens, it’ll cost around $1,000.

Bottom Line

If a reliable autofocus system is at the top of your list of priorities, the Sony Alpha A6400 is the best camera for you. Its industry-leading autofocus system outshines that of any other camera on the list.

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Overview

Striking the perfect balance between style, versatility, and affordability, the GoPro HERO 11 is an action camera that never ceases to amaze. Its compact design and user-friendly interface make it perfect for beginners.

In case it’s not obvious, we’re quite fond of this camera. Thanks to its HyperSmooth 5.0 engine, you can shoot in 5.3K at 60 FPS without experiencing any jitteriness or shakiness. It’s absolutely mind-blowing!

The GoPro HERO 11 features a tall 8:7 sensor that allows for a wide FOV. If you couple that with the HyperView feature, you get to enjoy a 16:9 aspect format for super-wide video capturing.

You can also record in slow motion with the GoPro HERO 11, up to 240 FPS. You should expect a slight loss in quality in slow-motion mode, but you’ll find the overall result pleasing.

As far as photography, the GoPro HERO 11’s upgraded sensor grants you 27 megapixels for capturing stills with an emphasis on color accuracy and details. This action camera handles light very well, too.

One thing that sets this camera apart and makes it ideal for beginners is the Easy Mode function, which makes you choose between “More Battery Life” and “Highest Quality” before adjusting the settings accordingly.

Top Features

• Large 1/1.9-inch CMOS sensor
• 5.3K/50 FPs, 4K/120 FPS, and 2.7K/240 FPS slow-motion
• Automatic highlight videos
• 10-bit color sampling
• 360-degree horizon lock
• 27-megapixel image quality
• GoPro Enduro battery
• ISO range of 100 to 6,400
• Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, and GPS connectivity
• Waterproof design up to 33 feet

Pricing

At around $500, there isn’t much to dislike about this tiny action camera. It’s compact and stylish and outperforms many other more-expensive options in terms of videography.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a veteran videographer, you will find the GoPro HERO 11 quite impressive. From its Ultra-HD video resolution to its super-compact design, this camera is a must-have!

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Overview

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an entry-level DSLR video camera equipped with a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor and has a solid set of features that make it ideal for a smartphone-to-camera transition.

Design-wise, the EOS Rebel T7 doesn’t have much to offer compared to its predecessor, the T6. It’s compact and lightweight, and features an integrated pop-up flash, a comfortable hand grip, and an optical viewfinder.

This DSLR camera can capture videos at a maximum resolution of 1080p, with two frame rate options available: 24 and 30 FPS. This is to be expected from a camera at this price point.

One thing we find a bit annoying about this camera’s video mode is that the autofocus feature doesn’t seem to work while filming. It only works before you start filming, so you’ll need to adjust it manually.

Video capturing aside, the T7 excels in capturing stills, especially at ISO 1600. With this camera, your social media profiles will surely be stacked with vibrant, high-quality photos.

Note that shooting duration varies based on your desired format. You’ll get 10 raw shots before the buffer fills if you shoot in raw format. On the other hand, if you shoot in JPG mode, you get 76 shots.

Top Features

• 24.0-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• Optical built-in viewfinder
• FHD at 30 FPS video recording
• HD at 60 FPS video recording
• 920k dots LCD Resolution
• Flash sync port
• Remote control with a smartphone
• Webcam functionality
• NFC and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Face detection focusing

Pricing

Priced at around $500, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a wallet-friendly DSLR video camera that’s guaranteed to meet the needs of most beginner and casual videographers.

Bottom Line

While it’s not the most capable DSLR video camera on the list, the Canon EOS Rebel T7’s strongest selling points are its price and image quality. It delivers a good deal of value for casual videography, though.

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Overview

The Pentax K-70 is a mid-range DSLR video camera with a 24-megapixel AA-filterless CMOS sensor with on-sensor phase detection for improved autofocus in video mode.

Though it doesn’t have the most cutting-edge video specs, the Pentax K-70’s SR system ensures steady filming with notably wide fields of view and continuous autofocus.

The camera has a maximum video resolution of 1080p, with only a few frame rates to choose from—24, 25, and 30 FPS. To shoot at 50 or 60 GPS, you’ll need to switch to 1080i or 720p resolution.

When it comes to taking stills, the Pentax K-70 has a continuous shooting speed of 6 frames per second, with an average buffer capacity of 40 JPEGs. We wouldn’t say it’s the most suited for action photography.

On the bright side, however, the K-70 is equipped with a wide range of digital imaging tools, from color fringing and corner shading to optical corrections. It can even mitigate image softening associated with smaller lens apertures.

The camera’s dynamic range compensation options enable it to handle extreme brightness. It can also shoot and mix multiple exposures and deliver above-average color reproduction.

Top Features

• 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• 3.0-inch Vari-angle screen (921,000 dots)
• 1080p video capturing
• 6 FPS burst shooting
• Pentaprism viewfinder
• Packed with imaging tools
• Dustproof and weather-resistant body
• Cold-resistant down to -10 degrees C (14 degrees F)
• In-body image stabilization
• Pixel shift resolution and AA simulation options

Pricing

Priced just under $850, the Pentax K-70 is a reliable mid-range camera with modest video specs. It’s compact, well-specified, and suitable for casual videography, but it’s not the best camera in its class.

Bottom Line

The Pentax K-70 is a solid pick if you’re a photographer with a knack for casual videography. If it’s the other way around, you’re better off with the Nikon D3500.

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What Are Video Cameras for Beginners?

The best video cameras for beginners are the ones that are both versatile and wallet-friendly. Such entry-level cameras might not offer the most advanced features, but they offer above-average video resolution, reliable battery life, solid connectivity, and high durability.

Common Questions About Video Cameras for Beginners

What video camera should I buy as a beginner?

If you have a budget of more than $1,000, an excellent choice would be the Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K. If your budget is a little tighter, say $700-$800, consider the Sony ZV-1, Canon EOS M50 Mark II, or Nikon D3500 DSLR. If your budget is under $500, consider the Panasonic Full HD Camcorder or GoPro HERO11.

Which is the best budget camera for video?

The best budget camera for video is the Panasonic Full-HD Camcorder (HC-V785K). Boasting 20x optical zoom, 1080p resolution, an anti-shake design, low-light capturing, and excellent connectivity (Wi-Fi, USB, and HDMI), you simply can’t go wrong with this camera if you’re on a tight budget.

Another equally great option is the GoPro HERO 11 action camera. Despite its super-compact design, it can shoot videos in Ultra-HD resolution and capture 27-megapixel pictures with no jitteriness.

Which camera is best for photography and videography for beginners?

The best camera for photography and videography for beginners is the Nikon D3500. This camera can capture remarkable details and colors that pop in any light condition, thanks to its 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and Full-HD resolution.

Wrapping Up – The Best Video Camera for Beginners

Now that you know what to look for in the best video camera for beginners and know the best options on the market, all that’s left for you is to pick the right camera for your needs and start shooting!

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