Once you start taking your YouTube channel seriously, you’re going to want to look into something bigger and better. You’ll need a camera capable of capturing high-quality content – and preferably in 4K.
To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best 4K Youtube Vlogging cameras on the market. If you are in a rush, or if I am already boring you, here is a quick reference for the cameras I will review below.
| Product | Video Quality | Weight | Lens | Price | Rating | More Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony DSC-RX100 MK4 (Editors Choice) | 4K | 1.5lbs | 24-70mm | $$$ | 4.8 | Find Out More |
| Samsung NX500 | 4K | 0.63lbs | 16-55mm | $$$ | 4.7 | Find Out More |
| Panasonic Lumix G7 | 4K | 0.90lbs | 14-42mm | $$$$ | 4.8 | Find Out More |
| Sony A7s | 4K | 1.08lbs | Body Only | $$$$$ | 4.9 | Find Out More |
| GoPro Hero 5 | 4K | 0.26lbs | Ultra Wide Angle | $$ | 4.7 | Find Out More |
Benefits Of Using 4K Cameras For Vlogging
There are several benefits and advantages to shooting in 4K.
First, 4K’s ultra-high resolution (over 4 times that of 1080p) is capable of capturing incredible detail and quality simply not possible in other resolutions. In fact, although 4K has been around for several years, only very recently have screens and televisions 4k become widely available in 4K.
With 4K, however, there is so much footage to work with that you can zoom in, crop and upload in a slightly smaller resolution without a noticeable drop in quality.
Many famous YouTubers such as Casey Neistat and MKBHD have adopted 4k into their YouTube videos. This is a big move and is definitely setting a high standard for other YouTube Vloggers.
Also, 4K is large enough that you can grab excellent still frames from the video. Older video, even in 1080p, is still quite low-resolution when compared to stills. But 4K is large and clear enough that it is almost indiscernible from regular still frame photography. You can learn more about the advancements and predictions of 4K here.
Limitations Of Using 4K Cameras
Of course, there are a few drawbacks to shooting with a 4K vlogging camera.
Second, video editing is an intense process that places serious demands on the hardware processing it. 4K video is so large that, unless you have a computer with upgraded specs (RAM/SSD/dedicated GPU), your computer may not be able to handle the workload.
Still, if you’re looking into taking your vlogging game more seriously and think you can handle the extra workload, a 4K camera is a worthy investment.
Top 5 Best 4K YouTube Vlogging Cameras Of 2017
1. Sony DSC-RX100 MK4 (Editors Choice)
The Sony DSC-RX100 MK4 is our Editor’s Pick for a 4k Youtube Vlogging Camera. It is a high-quality, compact 4k camera that is perfect for Youtubers and vlogging, with a attractive price. The RX100 has been praised since its original release in 2012, and the MK4 is the newest, best evolution.
The RX100 shoots in 4k up to 24fps, and is also capable of shooting at a super-slow motion high frame rate up to 960px. Slowing down this HFR footage results in silky smooth, slow motion footage. It also features what Sony calls the world’s first 20.1 megapixel Exmor RS back illuminated CMOS sensor, for ultra-clear video recording.
The RX100 IV comes with a Zeiss Vario-Sonar T lens, that zooms from 24-70mm and opens from f2.8 down to f1.8. Coupled with the maximum shutter speed of 1/32000, this lens makes it excellent for shooting in low-light situations. The wide-angle lens (24-70mm) is wide enough for daily vlogging, but also tight enough for portraits and macro shots.
Users love how small and easy to use it is; simply point and shoot. Battery life is excellent, and should last hours of continuous shooting.
Conclusion
Overall, the DSC-RX100 is a fantastic, versatile and compact camera great for both vlogging and still photography. It’s our Editor’s Pick for a reason, and we think you’ll be satisfied for a long time.
2. Samsung NX500
The Samsung NX500 is a mirrorless camera, the little brother of Samsung’s revolutionary NX100, and an excellent camera perfect for vloggers and photo enthusiasts alike. With a 28 mega-pixel back illuminated APS-C sensor, it is capable of capturing extremely, clear images.
The top of the camera features manual dial controls, and both shutter speed and aperture can be adjusted in a breeze. It has a hot-shoe mount for flashes or a microphone – a welcome addition to any vlogging camera.
When it comes to 4k recording, the NX500 uses a High-Efficiency Video Codec, which helps the camera use less than half the storage it would normally require and shoot for longer periods.
The NX500 also comes with built-in Wifi and Bluetooth, allowing you to connect to your PC, smartphone or any other Bluetooth device. This makes transferring and sharing video files a breeze and eliminates a step from your workflow. It is equipped with a standard SD card slot.
Conclusion
You can even use 3D lenses. Bear in mind, however, that due to the sensor’s size, shooting 4k video has a crop factor of 1.6x – meaning your 50mm becomes an 80mm.
At less than a pound and only 4.7” by 2.5”, the NX500 is an exceptionally compact, light camera; in fact, it is so small, that adding a zoom lens practically doubles the size. However, it is a robust little 4K camera ready to go anywhere and do anything. Perfect for Vloggers or YouTubers on the go.
3. Panasonic Lumix G7
The Panasonic Lumix G7 is a mirrorless DSLM camera. Built much like a traditional DLSR, with the same body and controls. The G7’s lack of mirror allows it to be lighter and more compact. It uses Micro Four Thirds interchangeable lenses, giving you a wide variety of focal lengths and sizes to select from.
The G7 is a very capable vlogging camera, capable of shooting 4K video at up to 100Mbps, and at both 30 and 24 fps. Where it really shines, however, is in the array of features that help with shooting great 4K video.
The flip-out touchscreen allows for easy access to all the controls, and prevents any vibrations or noise from picked up during recording. It also comes with focus peaking and exposure zebra graphs, for an excellent, clear shot every time.
Exposure, including ISO, can be manually controlled during recording, and you can both auto and manually focus the lens during recording. Auto ISO, however, is only available for video when in P, A or S mode. You cannot first set your shutter speed and aperture while the camera automatically keeps the brightness.
The Wifi system easily transfers and shares photos and video files, and can even upload directly to social media sites. Furthermore, if you’ve ever wanted to try an ultra-wide angle Vlog shot, the Wifi allows you to control the camera remotely.
Conclusion
Overall the Lumix G7 is a fantastic 4K YouTube Vlogging camera, perfect for those who do not need a full-size DSLR, but want the option of interchangeable lens. Another bonus of this G7 is that attractive price point.
4. Sony A7s
The Sony A7s has been one of the most popular and well-known mirrorless cameras on the market since its introduction. It is widely known for its incredible dynamic range and low-light capabilities, featuring a full-frame, 12.2 mega-pixel Exmor CMOS sensor.
It is also capable of shooting 4K video at up to 30fps, and can even shoot up to 120 fps in 1080P.
While 12.2MP is not much for stills, it is more than enough for shooting video. The full-frame, 35mm equivalent Exmor sensor is huge; couple that with a Bionz X image processor, the A7’s low-light sensitivity and 4K capabilities, and you can create stunning video for your YouTube audience.
The A7s also has a flip-out LCD screen, to make shooting video in tight angles and awkward corners manageable. It uses E-mount interchangeable lenses, allowing you to choose from a wide array of Sony lenses that fit any of your shooting needs. For vlogging, you will most likely want to choose a lens that is small, light and wide-angle.
The camera’s AutoFocus system works insanely accurately, even in light-light situations, with over 169 AF points and 25 contrast-detection points.
Conclusion
All this comes in a package just barely the size of your hand. The A7s is a compact, lightweight camera perfect for carrying around and vlogging every day. It’s more expensive than most other vlogging cameras on our list, but that price gives you some incredible capabilities. If you’re looking to invest a camera that can shoot in any situation with phenomenal results, the A7s is your best bet.
5. GoPro Hero 5
For the absolute best in mobility and ease of use for vlogging, grab the GoPro Hero 5. GoPro is the leader in creating durable, action cameras suitable for sports, adventures and recording on the go.
Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, the Hero 5 is a streamlined camera with a single, push-button control for recording and 2” touch display. Built to withstand all kinds of physical abuse, it is waterproof up to 33ft without any additional housing; you can take it diving, rafting, swimming and it will come out like new.
Simply press the single large Record button the top of the camera, and the Hero 5 will start recording stunning 4K video. It features advanced stabilization software, making video recorded on the run exceptionally smooth and watchable. It also shoots RAW stills.
The built-in 2” touchscreen is great for playing back your videos, checking your shots, and even lets you trim your video within the camera.
In addition to the touch display, the Hero 5 has voice control integrated into the microphone, for hands-free stopping and starting. The microphone is multi-directional, designed to pick up crisp, clean audio and perfect for vlogging.
Conclusion
All in all, the Hero 5 is an incredibly simple, easy to use camera that can go anywhere, with everything you could need built right in. It fits in your pocket, can mount on a helmet or bike, and makes a fantastically convenient camera for vlogging.
Wrapping It Up
In conclusion, any of these cameras is an excellent option, and you should have no problem finding one that suits your shooting needs and your budget. We recommend the Sony DSC-RX100 4 as our Editor’s Pick for one of the best 4K YouTube cameras.
With its compact, small build, straightforward ease of use (no worries about changing lenses), and relatively affordable price, it is a solid choice for everyday video recording and vlogging. The 20.1 Exmor sensor and Bionz X image processor deliver crystal clear 4K video, while the built-in, Zeiss f1.8-f2.8 24-70mm lens is brilliant for everyday shooting in almost any light.
Hopefully, this article gave you some information on the best 4K YouTube cameras. I have also written a guide on how to pick the right Vlogging camera for your needs and budget here.
Learn more about Vlogging cameras and gear
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