vlogger holds his dslr camera to the viewer, crouched in front of an oriental structure

Technically speaking, it’s possible to record perfectly good videos these days with a smartphone. So, is there even a real need for a dedicated vlogging camera, be it affordable or pricey, you ask?

Well, put simply, there isn’t a smartphone in the world that can rival the quality of a pro-grade vlogging camera. In terms of features, functionalities and the quality of the final cut, there really is no comparison.

Smartphone camera technology has come a long way, it’s true. But given that upgrading to a dedicated vlogging camera no longer means paying through the nose, it should absolutely be on your radar.

Particularly if you want to stand out amongst the sea of vlogger competition.

Of course, if you really want to spend more than £1,000 on a high-end vlogging camera, go right ahead. But it’s not strictly necessary to do so.

There are some fantastic digital camera bargains to be found that cover all bases for a much lower price. And that’s exactly what we’re covering for you today, dear reader.

 

Picking up a Bargain Vlogging Camera in 2021

Shopping for the ideal vlogging camera means keeping one important consideration in mind:

How many advanced features and functionalities do you really need?

Depending on the type of content you shoot and share, the answer could be “not many at all”. You may simply need something that does the basics and does them well.

Of course, going for the basics is going to free up your funds too; great for saving money, or boosting the quality of your output with the bells and whistles that’ll help you stand out, such as:

As for the cameras themselves, a handful of top contenders come to mind where value for money is concerned.

Each of the following is unique in terms of its features and functionalities. And better still, each represents a cost-effective long-term investment in your vlogging business:

 

Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II camera, best budget vlogging cameras

Image source: Canon.co.uk

#1 – Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II

A reliable workhorse for everyday lifestyle vlogging, the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II does it all. The combination of a 20.1MP 1″ High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor and a DIGIC 7 Image Processor ensures gorgeous image quality. Meanwhile, compact dimensions and 200g weight make this camera great for taking on the go.

Dynamic IS technology provides excellent stabilisation in trickier shooting conditions, while the 3x optical zoom is just about enough for most everyday purposes. It’s also an absolute bargain at its price and does an excellent job of capturing the action in low-light conditions.

  • Sensor: 1″ CMOS
  • Resolution: 9
  • Screen: 3-inch 1.04m-dot Touchscreen LCD
  • Image Stabilization: Optical
  • Zoom: 3x Optical and 4x Digital
  • Video: 1080p/60fps
  • Record Limit: 29 Minutes, 59 Seconds
  • Connectivity: WiFi with NFC, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB
  • Battery Life: 235 shots
  • Weight: 206 g

 

#2 – AKASO EK7000

If you need something that’s waterproof - because why wouldn’t you? - the AKASO EK7000 is a top performer. Technologically speaking, it’s essentially a clone of a GoPro, with the same overall capabilities and practically identical video quality.

It’s just as easy to use, can be used in even the harshest environments and is as durable as it gets. This kit’s slow-motion capabilities are also fantastic and the waterproof housing it ships with is top-notch. The only real difference between the AKASO EK7000 and the GoPro is the price – this beauty is way cheaper. Well worth picking up, even if simply to have on the side for when things get wet and messy.

  • Resolution: 12 Megapixels
  • Screen: 0-inch Fixed LCD
  • Image Stabilization: None
  • Zoom: None
  • Video: 4K/25 fps
  • Record Limit: About 90 minutes (depends on battery charge)
  • Connectivity: WiFi and HDMI
  • Battery Life: Records up to 90 minutes of 4K/25fps footage per charge
  • Weight: 5 g (with battery)

 

#3 – Nikon Coolpix B500

Anyone who takes the show on the road on a regular basis should definitely check out the Nikon Coolpix B500. Lightweight and perfectly portable, it’s an impressive little superzoom machine that packs a real punch for its compact size.

It’s powered by standard AA batteries so it’s easy to stay stocked up with spares. The 16MP 1/2.3 inches BSI CMOS sensor makes for consistently excellent performance and the awesome 40x NIKKOR VR Zoom Lens allows for outstanding close-ups of distant subjects.

Plus, the fact that you can take up to 600 shots without changing the batteries is an absolute gift!

  • Sensor: 1/2.3-inch CMOS
  • Resolution: 16 Megapixels
  • Screen: 3-inch 921k-dot Tilting LCD
  • Image Stabilization: 4-Axis Hybrid Vibration Reduction
  • Zoom: 40x optical
  • Video: 1080p/30fps
  • Record Limit: 29 minutes or 4GB file sizes
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, HDMI
  • Battery Life: 600 Shots
  • Weight: 542 g

 

Sony Alpha a6000 camera, best budget vlogging cameras 2021

#4 - Sony Alpha a6000

Anyone looking to make their first foray into mirrorless camera technology will be right at home with this beauty.

The Sony Alpha a6000 packs all the power and quality you’d associate with a solid DSLR, though in a significantly more compact and portable form. 1080p video footage at up to 60fps is captured courtesy of a 24.3MP APS-C-sized Exmor HD CMOS sensor combined with a BIONZ X image processor.

The flip-up touchscreen LCD brings huge convenience and practicality into the mix. Meanwhile, inbuilt WiFi connectivity with NFC furthers the versatility. It also has an excellent battery life of around 400 shots.

The only slight downside is the absence of an external mic jack, though that should hardly stop you!

  • Sensor: APS-C Exmor HD CMOS
  • Resolution: 3 Megapixels
  • Screen: 3-inch 921.6k-dot Flip-Up Touchscreen LCD
  • Image Stabilization: None
  • Zoom: Depends on lens
  • Video: 1080p/60 fps
  • Record Limit: 29 minutes
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth, Micro-HDMI, Micro-USB
  • Battery Life: 400 shots
  • Weight: 283 g

 

#5 – Canon EOS Rebel T6 (1300D) 

Outstanding in every way, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is the perfect choice for anyone looking to upgrade to a DSLR for the first time. Uncomplicated and uncompromising on quality, it’s easy to use and delivers consistently superb results.

This kit boasts a DIGIC 4+ image processor and an 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor. It even comes complete with an 18-55mm Lens so you’re ready to start shooting. It’s a shame the LCD screen is fixed in place, but that really is the only negative thing you can say about this camera for the price it sells for.

  • Sensor: APS-C
  • Resolution: 18 Megapixels
  • Screen: 3-inch 920k-dot LCD
  • Image Stabilization: None
  • Zoom: Depends on lens
  • Video: 1080p/30fps
  • Record Limit: 29 Minutes, 59 Seconds
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC
  • Battery Life: 500 Shots
  • Weight: 485g