Finding a budget camera for vlogging and YouTube videos is not easy as you’ll need a camera with decent video recording capabilities for recording your vlogs.
Although a 4K resolution is considered a standard, you can still shoot decent quality videos with a 1080p resolution.
Of course, depending on the kind of videos you’ll be shooting you might want to prioritize different things. For example, camera size will be important for travel vloggers, while image stabilization plays a major role in getting smooth hiking vlogs.
Something else to consider is that the camera you choose should perform well in low-light, especially when you don’t have full control of light sources.
To make your search easier, we compiled the best vlogging cameras under $300 you can find right now in the market – without sacrificing high-end camera features.
Whether you’re just starting out or you want to upgrade from your smartphone, you’ll find a camera that fits your needs in this list.
7 Best Vlogging Cameras Under $300
We chose these cameras considering their affordability and ease of use. These are entry-level cameras that can help you make good quality vlogs or Youtube videos.
Though these are not high-end cameras and may not give pro-like results out of the box, they still allow you to start on a low budget with pretty decent results – even professional-level results if you use lighting correctly.
Let’s review each of our selected cameras in detail:
1. Sony DSCH300/B: Best Value Digital Camera Under $300
Whether you are looking for a high-end camera or an affordable one to start your vlogging career, Sony has some decent offers for you.
The H300 is an affordable Sony option that comes with decent picture and video options.
It has a solid DSLR-like body but fits in your hand perfectly thanks to its comfortable grip, allowing you to handle the camera with one hand.
The Cyber-Shot H300 comes with a 20.1 MP sensor. The image quality depends on the size of the sensor, and this one has a sensor size of ½.3″, which is small but works well in this price range and makes your camera more portable.
The 20.1 MP super HAD CCD sensor captures vibrant images with excellent clarity.
The digital camera is capable of turning into a movie mode within the touch of a finger.
It can shoot a 720p high definition video that is good enough to start your vlogs or small Youtube videos.
These videos also take less space. It shoots at a speed of 30 frames per second.
The only problem with this camera for vloggers is that it sucks at low-light, but it records decent videos in a good light.
It is at its best when taking in the scenery from some distance. A 35× optical zoom brings your subject closer for a beautiful and focused view.
The 35× zoom allows you to shoot blur-free pictures with precision—the zoom out helps you take wide-angled shots conveniently.
It features a fixed lens that cannot be changed. It has both optical zoom and zoom-out capability to take up closer shots. The camera also features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization to take steady shots.
It is powered by AA batteries which is a bit disappointing, but you can buy rechargeable AA batteries for it.
Overall, it’s an affordable camera that works well for beginners.
Pros
- 35× optical zoom capability
- 20.1MP sensor takes clear shots
- Easy-grip and portable camera
- Image stabilization gives minimum blurs
- 720p high-resolution video recording
- Captures 3500 of a shot
Cons
- It does not perform well on low light
- Powered by AA batteries
2. Canon PowerShot SX730: High-quality Affordable Camera
Canon PowerShot SX730 is a lightweight and pocket-size camera to capture the action. It has a large grip and a textured surface that makes it easy to handle.
The camera features a 3-inches tilt screen that can tilt up to 180 degrees. The tilt screen helps you take the low-angle view or enable you to shot yourself.
The SX730 employs a 20.3Megapixel6 high sensitivity CMOS sensor which delivers powerful image performance. It performs well in low light. The high ISO capturing has reduced noise.
The camera features a 40× optical zoom that allows you to focus on a distant object. You can zoom in or out conveniently while capturing a moving object. It keeps the subject in focus even when it is moving at a fast pace.
The image quality is further enhanced with DIGIC 6 image processor. It boosts image quality in both photos and videos.
The camera is designed for beautiful and creative videos. It captures 1080p lifelike videos with selectable framerates of 60p, 30p,and 24p, to match different situations.
Its Dynamics IS create video virtually free of distortion. The 5-axis image stabilization corrects the camera shake when shooting a moving subject.
Something we absolutely adore is that it comes with a rechargeable battery that lets you take 250-300 pictures per charge.
An HDMI port is provided to connect the camera to your TV and, for file transfer, you have a USB port on the side.
In addition, you can control the camera remotely with the Canon app.
The camera captures the audio well with its built-in microphones, though you cannot attach an external mic with the camera.
Pros
- Features a 3″ tilt screen
- Sleek body with a secure grip
- High sensitivity CMOS sensor
- DIGIC 6 image processor gives clarity
- Performs well in low light
Cons
- Priced little more than $300
- Can’t be attached with an external mic
3. Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 4K Digital Camera: Best for Outdoors Vloggers
This one is another point-and-shoot camera for vloggers and travelers who want to shoot wildlife. It is an excellent option for both 4K photos and videos.
It’s a long-zoom camera that provides a 60× optical zoom out. You can also zoom in to capture a 20 mm wide-angle composition for recording breathtaking landscapes.
It can capture 4K videos at 30 frames per second. You can press play, pause, or save to capture the exact moment. The 4K video capture mode allows you to capture exciting and fast-paced scenes.
The camera performs well in low light but it also has a pop-up flash to help you to capture dark scenes better.
There is a viewfinder on this Panasonic FZ80. Its 1,170K-dot viewfinder may not work as in high-end cameras but works well for this price range.
It allows you to set your focus point even after the photo has been taken. You can also select several focus points with its Focus Stacking feature that gives you new creative freedom.
The camera features a 3″ LCD screen at the back, which lets you control several features conveniently. The only disadvantage is that it does not has a flip screen and cannot allow selfies or low-angle shooting.
Overall, it’s one of the best vlogging cameras under 300. The camera offers plenty of connectivity options like USB and WiFi connections. There is an HDMI port to connect it with your TV.
Pros
- 60× optical zoom
- Features a viewfinder to help you focus
- 3″ Touch Screen to control features
- Pop up flashlight
- Takes 4K shots with good quality
Cons
- It does not feature a flip screen
4. Nikon Coolpix W150: Most Affordable Vlogging Camera
This one is for beginners who want to capture some quick videos and photos. It’s an entry-level camera that comes with a very user-friendly system.
The Coolpix W150 comes with a rugged and simple look that can be used for the whole family. It has a curved body and a recessed area around the lens gives a comfortable and firm grip.
It’s a waterproof camera that can shoot photos and videos 33 feet underwater. It even has an underwater face framing that automatically detects and focuses the faces underwater.
Several editing functions allow you to add clarity to your underwater images as well.
The camera allows you to take creative shots with its 18 convenient shooting modes. You can add special effects or make food photos or videography conveniently with these modes — i.e. a picture in picture mode gives your stills a more creative touch.
The camera features a Camera target finding AF that instantaneously assesses the target point and automatically adjusts the AF area.
You can record Full HD videos with an aspect ratio of 16:9.
The camera also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth for Snap Bridge sharing.
Overall, it’s not a very professional camera but available at a very affordable price. You can certainly make a start to your vlogging career and move on to a more professional camera overtime.
Pros
- Waterproof camera
- It comes with a rugged build
- User-friendly features
- 18 convenient shooting modes
- Features target finding AF
Cons
- Limited battery time
5. GoPro HERO8 Black – Best Action Camera With Stabilization
It’s a versatile camera that is designed for those who are always on the go. The camera is almost unshakeable with its three levels of image stabilization.
It features three levels of image stabilization; on, high, and boost. It gives the smoothest videos for vloggers even when they are moving or chasing a mobile subject.
The Hypersmooth feature works with all resolutions and frame rates, giving you smooth and stable results for all types of videos.
The camera comes with a very compact structure. You can keep it in a pocket, and a folding finger base gives a comfortable and secure grip.
There is a sliding door on the side to change batteries even faster.
The camera also comes with a 2× better impact-resistant lens.
You can create time-lapse videos when you are moving through an activity with the Time Wrap feature that automatically adjusts the speed based on motion, scene detection, and lighting.
It allows you to slow down the time-lapse to capture more interesting scenes in between. You can increase the speed to 30× to share the longer activities more conveniently.
Live Burst option allows you to capture the moments 1.5 seconds before and after taking the picture so you can choose the best single frame for photo or video.
This GoPro allows you to take brilliant photos with its SuperPhoto feature. It applies HDR to tone or reduce noise from your shots.
An interesting feature of the GoPro 8 is that it can take voice commands. It recognizes up to 16 voice commands.
You can shoot at slow motion with an ultra-high frame rate of 1080p 240 videos. Slow down the funny or epic moments to make them more creative and memorable.
Overall, it’s a great option for vloggers and Youtubers who want to record live actions. It can shoot stunning 4K60 videos with clarity and detail.
Pros
- Pocket size lightweight camera
- Features three levels of image stabilization
- Time Wrap feature to record lengthy activity
- Slow-motion pictures to make memorable shots
- Can take voice commands
Cons
- Not a very durable camera
- Small sensor size
6. DJI Osmo Action: Best Dual Screen 4K Action Camera
If you are looking for a dual-screen camera to capture your actions and make stunning Youtube videos or Vlogs, then DJI Osmo is for you.
The pocket-size camera resembles the GoPro in looks but is available for almost a hundred bucks less.
It is made to move. It combines EIS with a complex algorithm delivering stable and shake-free footage for your vlogs.
The camera comes with a better dynamic range. It dramatically enhances the dynamic range when recording HDR videos. That gives better clarity and depth to your footage.
The camera allows you to record slow-motion videos with excellent clarity and detail. You can make your epic moments more memorable with 8× slow motion with 1080 resolution and 240 frames per second.
You can rest assured about capturing the details and intensity of your action with its 40K/60 fps. The DJI Osmo provides UHD image quality to make your stills and videos look more professional.
It allows a custom mode to enable you to store your preferred settings and make the camera faster to use.
To further simplify the use of the camera, there is a quick switch button. You can easily select the right mode or setting with its QS buttons.
Like GoPro 8, this one also works with voice commands. However, it can recognize only five commands for essential tasks like filming, capturing photos, or powering down the device.
The camera lens has three aspherical layers that prevent extra light from entering the lens and reduce distortion and glare, giving clean and crisp results.
Pros
- Cheap Camera
- Dual Screen camera
- Works with voice commands as well
- Simple setup
- Custom mode to access your desired features easily
- Three aspherical layers around the lens prevent noise and distortion
Cons
- Not a very durable quality
7. Canon PowerShot ELPH 300: The Best Vlogging Camera Under $300
The Canon PowerShot Elph 300 is a point-and-shoot digital camera that can be used to record some excellent Youtube videos, vlogs, and you can use it for live streaming.
The first thing we noticed about its design is its slim and sleek look. It’s one of the thinnest cameras and fits right in your palm. It’s also so light-weight that makes it an excellent partner for travelers or those who want the camera in their pocket to shoot on whims.
The camera has a 2.7″ screen at the back of the camera that is even readable in direct sunlight.
The camera uses a 24mm ultra-wide-angle lens, featuring a 5× optical zoom that allows you to get as close to your subject as you need. It also features an optical image stabilizer for your shaking hands.
It comes with 12.1 CMOS sensors and a DIGIC 4 image processor that improves the shooting even in low light without needing a flash.
You can record full HD 1080p video with exceptional clarity.
Its Super Slow Motion feature records the video at a very high-speed to play it back at slow-motion to depict the minute details.
You can point and burst the shot with a speed of 8.0 fps with its High Burst Mode. The camera actually provides 32 different shooting scenarios that you can choose from its settings.
The Canon PowerShot Elph 300 also has a Smart Auto where you can set the proper setting from 32 predefined shooting situations.
Overall, it’s a high-quality camera, and we can call it one of the best vlogging cameras under $300 due to its rich features.
Pros
- Ultra Wide-angle lens captures the real action
- DIGIC Image Processor 4 for a clear picture
- Features 32 different shooting scenarios
- 5× optical zoom
- Clear and detailed photo results
Cons
- Low battery life
Final Words
Choosing the best vlogging camera under 300 is not easy. You don’t want to compromise the quality of your videos nor breaking the bank.
We made this list to include the best $300 cameras you can pick with confidence.
These cameras are chosen due to their excellent video and photo features that’ll help you kickstart your vlogging career.
Did we miss a good option? Leave a comment below so we can add it to our list. You’ll help us and everyone in this community!
Happy vlogging!
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