Rating of the best video cameras in 2019-2020

When choosing video cameras, you need to rely on a number of parameters, such as shooting quality, appearance, and the availability of options.

CategoryNameprice, rub.Short description
Best Budget Inexpensive Video CamerasSony HDR CX 40516000Considered the best budget option for home and travel.
Canon Legria HF R60617000Unlike other models in this segment, Legria perfectly records not only pictures, but also sound.
Panasonic – HC-V27019000The case is matte type, made of plastic. It fits comfortably in the hand and leaves no marks.
The best mid-range video camerasPanasonic HC-V77024000The new version has a headphone jack. The buyer will also have the ability to transfer files directly to their phone or tablet.
LEGRIA HF M5638000The camera's capabilities allow you to comfortably shoot in different modes and under different lighting conditions.
Panasonic HC-VX87043000An affordable camera option for recording 4K video.
The best video cameras for professionalsSony NEX VG30EH166000Video is recorded in 1080 resolution, 16 MP module, CMOS matrix in APS-C format.
Sony NEX-FS700E450000A distinctive feature is a large number of buttons on the body for all occasions.
The best full hd 1080p video camerasSony HDR-CX900E100000The engineers added a sensor from Exmor R with a resolution of 14 megapixels and a lens with increased light sensitivity.
Panasonic V80040000Optics from LEICA with a large MOS sensor, support for 5-axis stabilization, horizon leveling technology and HDR Movie support.
The best 4k video cameras for amateur and semi-professional levelsFDR AX 700 from Sony140000The EXMOS RS 1.0 multilayer matrix with 4K support is responsible for shooting.
HC-VX980 from Panasonic40000Smooth zoom with support for panoramic shooting, display of the object in dynamics and stabilization of already acquired material.
The best compact professional video camerasCanon XF405250000Module with a 4K widescreen lens with x15 magnification.
JVC GY-GM200E150000The built-in module with IP option allows you to shoot even in a poorly lit room.

10Panasonic HC-V380


Traditionally, the ranking opens with the most budget model. This is truly one of the highest quality and at the same time compact video cameras in its segment. It has an advantage over its competitors in the form of 50x optical zoom and 90x intelligent zoom.

This Panasonic can independently align pictures to the correct horizon, has a 5-axis HYBRYD stabilizer, and a 28 mm wide-angle lens.

Equally important is the availability of Wi-Fi with the ability to connect up to three smartphones, remote control, and picture-in-picture shooting.

Pros:

  • Hybrid stabilizer combined with superzoom
  • Dolby Digital 2.0
  • Wireless functionality
  • Clear menu with flexible settings
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Three-inch color screen

Minuses:

  • Low resolution matrix
  • Weak battery

Rating of the best video camera models

10. Panasonic HC-V160

This is one of the cheapest models presented in our review. The camera comes with a battery, a set of cables for connecting to a TV or computer, and a charger. There is no lens cap provided. The camera does not have internal memory, so you will immediately have to purchase an SDHC or SDXC memory card with a capacity of up to 64 GB. Has compact dimensions. It is perfect for amateur filming and is equipped with a wide-angle lens.

The battery capacity allows shooting for 40 minutes. If you plan to shoot longer, it is better to purchase an additional battery. Zoom 38x. The camera has a flip-out display that makes shooting easier; you should immediately take into account that it is not touch-sensitive; navigation through the menu is done using the buttons located to the left of it.

Advantages:

  • Low price;
  • Good zoom, even at its maximum, the picture remains clear;
  • Fits comfortably in your hand;
  • Excellent sound transmission;
  • Wide viewing angle;
  • The presence of buttons next to the display.

Flaws:

  • The charging socket is not very conveniently located;
  • Color rendering suffers in low light;
  • The stabilizer does not perform very well at long distances;
  • Low battery capacity;
  • Photos sometimes turn out blurry.

Panasonic HC-V160

Sony HDR-CX405

The model, like the previous one, is one of the most compact and lightest - its weight is only 215 g. Users consider the almost complete absence of control buttons on the external body of the product to be a controversial decision. Below the display there is a side panel where there is a niche for installing a memory card and a Micro-HDMI video input socket. The menu is controlled only by a five-way joystick mounted on the display frame. The functional part of the camera is expanded: it has a 30x zoom, the ability to shoot in Full HD format, and the number of pixels in the matrix is ​​2.29.

The camera is compatible with memory cards of microSD, SDXC, microSDHC formats. It is equipped with a small 2.7-inch LCD display. Depending on the shooting format, the frame rate ranges from 25 to 50. It does not have a viewfinder, which significantly reduces shooting capabilities. The settings area is standard for amateur video cameras.

Advantages:

  • 30x zoom keeps images clear even at long distances;
  • A very convenient stabilizer that eliminates image fluctuations even when shooting while walking;
  • Possibility of macro photography (for this you need to additionally purchase a tripod);
  • All controls are located in close proximity to the display.

Flaws:

  • There is no way to quickly adjust the camera to changing shooting conditions;
  • There is no built-in Wi-Fi module;
  • The memory card slot is not always reliable - sometimes the media fits in it askew.

Sony HDR-CX405

Canon LEGRIA HF R706

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The main distinguishing feature of this camera is the presence of a night shooting mode, and even when using it, the image quality will be in AVCHD format. The product can be used as a camera; the exposure can be set either manually or automatically. The screen is touch-sensitive and the camera is perfect for any family filming. Modern technologies allow you to get a beautiful and clear picture. It is possible to use fast and slow motion.

The Touch Decoration feature allows you to add video effects directly while recording. The ability to select the audio sequence function helps ensure high-quality sound.

The device interface is Russified, the screen is capacitive type with a diagonal of 7.5 cm. The camera does not have internal memory, so recording is done on a FlashAir format memory card. The files can later be viewed on a tablet, computer or smartphone. The camera lens is equipped with a 57x zoom with stabilizer. Due to this, the picture is clear even from a considerable distance. The automatic framing feature helps you keep your subject in the frame.

Advantages:

  • Availability of a touch screen;
  • High-capacity battery ensuring long-lasting battery life;
  • Optical stabilizer;
  • Intuitive setup system;
  • Availability of the most necessary functions;
  • Compact dimensions;
  • High image quality;
  • An ideal option for its price category.

Flaws:

  • The battery under the cover is not secured very securely and becomes loose over time.

Canon LEGRIA HF R706

Sony HDR-CX625

This model belongs to the middle price category. It has an intelligent automatic Balanced Optical SteadyShot stabilizer - due to it, it is possible to minimize camera shake during shooting, regardless of the focal length, from shooting with a wide-angle lens to maximum zoom. With its help, vibrations are compensated in five directions at once, including when recording video while walking or running. Focusing is also automatic, working within a few milliseconds - the camera quickly responds to the press of a button and captures the most important moments.

Video is recorded simultaneously in two formats - XAVC S or AVCHD and MP4. As a result, there are two identical files on the memory card - one weighs little and is ready for instant transfer, and the other is professional, which can be edited if necessary. The camera has a reliable microphone that supports surround sound and suppresses any extraneous noise. 30x zoom, manually adjustable.

Advantages:

  • Ability to support high-quality video recording in Full HD 1080p format;
  • Widescreen recording mode is provided;
  • Maximum photo and video resolution 1920x1080;
  • There is a night shooting function;
  • Matrix 2.29 MP;
  • 30x zoom.

Flaws:

  • There is no internal memory, files are recorded on flash media;
  • The location of the socket for connecting the charger is not very convenient.

Sony HDR-CX625

Panasonic HC-VX980

The main distinguishing quality of this camera is the ability to connect any additional equipment to it without various adapters. The slot for installing a memory card is located quite conveniently here - at the bottom of the structure. The instrument panel is located under the folding display - there are three types of interfaces: Micro-USB, Micro-HDMI and analog input-output.

The display is liquid crystal, has a diagonal of 6 cm - this is quite enough for a semi-professional camera of this size. It is touch sensitive with high response speed. If necessary, it can be rotated up to 180 degrees. Photography is almost professional even with significant magnification. It does not overheat when working in video format, the microphone is protected from wind, and a USB cable is included for connecting to a laptop or computer.

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Advantages:

  • Matrix 18.91 megapixels;
  • 20x optical zoom and 60x digital;
  • Convenient location of functional buttons;
  • Touch display with a large degree of rotation;
  • Ability to record video in wide format;
  • The highest video resolution is 3840x2160.

Flaws:

  • Low battery capacity - maximum battery life does not exceed one and a half hours;
  • High price;
  • Small touch screen size.

Panasonic HC-VX980

5. Panasonic AG-AC160

One of the best professional video cameras. The body is made of high-quality plastic with a matte structure. All buttons are located very conveniently, which facilitates the process of video shooting. Directly next to the lens there are rings for controlling the zoom, focus and aperture of the device. The viewfinder can be rotated up to an angle of 90 degrees, has a resolution of 1.22 megapixels, and displays a bright image.

The lens is wide-angle, has a 21x optical zoom, image stabilization, a four-position optical filter, and a very sensitive sensor. The camera takes excellent pictures even in low light conditions - 0.4 Lux is enough for it to work effectively. It is possible to carry out accelerated and slow motion shooting. The sound is high-quality, recorded in LPCM or Dolby Digital 2.0 format - it enters the camera through a built-in stereo microphone, there are connectors for connecting external sound recording devices.

Advantages:

  • Reliable and strong case that can withstand falls from low heights;
  • Long battery life;
  • Good color rendering;
  • Possibility of dynamic, accelerated and slow-motion shooting;
  • Autofocus;
  • Possibility of shooting in semi-darkness.

Flaws:

  • Very high price;
  • Omnidirectional microphone;
  • Heavy weight, which makes handheld shooting difficult;
  • Manual adjustment;
  • The case is not waterproof.

Panasonic AG-AC160

Canon Legria HF G30

Another professional model in our rating. The camera is equipped with a body made of matte black plastic, additionally decorated with metal inserts. There are no backlashes, but due to the large dimensions of the case, creaking is sometimes heard. The lens hood can be removed if desired. On the right side of the case, under a small plug, there is a row of service connectors - a 3.5-inch output for standard headphones, an input for connecting a microphone; USB port, Mini-HDMI connector and remote control input.

There are stereo microphones on the top of the camera, and the flip-out display has two additional buttons for selecting the focus mode and activating the pre-recording or buffer recording mode. The battery allows the camera to work without interruption for almost 200 minutes.

Advantages:

  • The picture turns out very clear even in low light conditions;
  • Attractive appearance;
  • Small dimensions and weight;
  • Fast focusing;
  • A significant number of settings;
  • The color rendition is very high quality.

Flaws:

  • Some lack of green in the picture;
  • There is no separate charger for the battery; you have to charge it through the camera;
  • Professionals note reduced detail of objects during fast shooting.

Canon Legria HF G30

Sony FDR-AX 100E

For a professional camera, it has small body dimensions; the net weight of the product is only 800 grams. The diameter of the lens glass is large, it allows you to get a very high-quality picture during video and photography. The lens does not have automatic shutters; instead, the kit comes with a standard cover made of hard plastic. The body is made of plastic with steel inserts.

Infrared illumination is provided for shooting in absolute darkness. The camera has a tilt-and-slide viewfinder, next to it there is a button that allows you to switch between photo and video modes. The display is touch-sensitive, under it there is a number of functional buttons - power on, selecting white balance, activating automatic or night shooting mode, a slot for installing a memory card, and so on.

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Advantages:

  • Allows you to get a fairly sharp picture;
  • Color rendition is as close to natural as possible;
  • Powerful battery;
  • A large number of manual and automatic operating modes;
  • The menu is standard for all models of this brand;
  • Long service life.

Flaws:

  • The stabilizer is weak - the camera takes a long time to focus on the object;
  • At maximum zoom, some blurring of the image occurs.

Sony FDR-AX 100E

Panasonic HC-V760

This is one of the best video cameras that is suitable for both professionals and amateurs. It produces images in Full HD 1080p format, has an optical zoom of 50x, digital zoom of about 1500 with a focal length from 29.5 to 612 mm. The effective resolution is 6.03 megapixels. The design includes a 3-inch diagonal rotating touchscreen display, which hides a number of functional buttons.

You can charge not only from the network, but also via a USB connector. There are outputs for connecting to a TV, computer, and a microphone input. The battery life is quite long - about 2 hours. The camera fits comfortably in your hand and can be used in lighting conditions as low as 1 Lux.

Advantages:

  • Ergonomic design;
  • Many video recording formats;
  • High-quality sound transmission;
  • Possibility of charging via USB.

Flaws:

  • High price of additional batteries;
  • When using a light filter, the picture at the edges turns out blurry;
  • The microphone sometimes records extraneous noise.

Panasonic HC-V760 camcorder, workhorse features

Panasonic HC-V760

Panasonic HC-V770

This model rightfully occupies a leading position in the ranking of video cameras of the year. The lens system includes four groups, which allows you to obtain natural images without loss of quality even when using the maximum 20x optical zoom. The Crystal Engine processor reduces picture noise when recording in Full HD format, the maximum frame rate is 120 per second. Using the dial, you can adjust a number of shooting parameters - sharpness, focus, color saturation and brightness. The camera is well suited for both amateurs and professionals. The sound is high-quality, recorded using a system of four microphones. The device has a picture alignment system that makes shooting without a tripod easier. The camera is equipped with a Wi-Fi module.

Advantages:

  • Fits very well in the hand;
  • Matrix 12 MPix;
  • A convenient stabilizer that allows you to shoot even while running or from a car window;
  • High-quality assembly;
  • Long-term operation without recharging - over 5 hours, no need to buy an additional battery.

Flaws:

  • There are too many buttons, which would be difficult for even a professional to understand;
  • There is no automatic mode for photographing smiling faces;
  • Case elements sometimes emit an unpleasant squeaking sound.

Panasonic HC-V770 - CAMERA FOR A BLOGGER? / REVIEW AND TESTS

Panasonic HC-V770

9Panasonic HC-V770


A very popular video camera along with its predecessor Panasonic HC-V760. It provides smooth and natural shooting, has good functionality, and a huge number of reviews from customers and industry experts. The model produces 120 frames per second, which other cameras cannot boast of. In Full HD resolution, this number of frames allows you to obtain almost professional quality shooting.

Owners of the device note that it has no analogues in terms of price and quality ratio. The device has excellent optics and a powerful stabilizer; the manufacturer has endowed it with innovative solutions and modes. The rule applies here: “it’s better to see once than to hear a hundred times.”

Pros:

  • Good reputation among users
  • Value for money
  • High-quality shooting in low light conditions
  • Excellent stabilizer
  • 20x optical zoom
  • Operation from an external power source

Minuses:

  • Unfinished firmware
  • Weak battery
  • Mutually exclusive presets

Best Budget Inexpensive Video Cameras

The list opens with a device from the same Sony – Sony HDR CX 405, which is considered the best budget option for home and travel – the price is 16 thousand rubles. The engineers equipped the model with a CMOS type matrix, which allows the CX405 to outperform other cameras in terms of rendering color effects. However, the model also has one drawback - the matrix does not detail pictures and videos very well. In addition, the user will receive a larger image using a 30x zoom and decent battery life.

The display does not have a touch pad, and the diagonal is not pleasing. Control of modes and all elements is carried out using a joystick, which has a dynamic device and rotates if necessary. The battery life without recharging is almost 120 minutes.

AdvantagesFlaws
  • matrix with SMOS technology
  • price
  • zoom
  • battery
  • HDMI and AV connectivity
  • matrix size
  • modest display
  • no microphone output


Sony HDR CX 405

The second option for purchasing a budget video camera is the Canon Legria HF R606 at a price of 17 thousand rubles, which has optical image stabilization in its arsenal. Many videographers have already dubbed the model the best in terms of price and quality ratio. Unlike other models in this segment, Legria perfectly records not only pictures, but also sound.

AdvantagesFlaws
  • zoom x32
  • Screen size
  • shooting frequency at Full HD resolution
  • SMOS matrix
  • 3.5 mm port for connecting headphones
  • connectors for AV and HDMI
  • price
  • When you zoom, you hear a sound that is also displayed in the video itself
  • matrix size
  • no microphone output
  • The case is of a glossy type, so marks and fingerprints remain on it


Canon Legria HF R606

The rating is completed by a camera from Panasonic – HC-V270. The Japanese have always been able to compete, which is fully reflected in this model. The case is matte type, made of plastic. It fits comfortably in the hand and leaves no marks. Price 19 thousand rubles.

Unfortunately, I’m not happy with the quality of battery life, which barely reaches an hour, but this figure can be increased if you purchase a separate battery. 5-axis stabilization, which reduces image shake when recording. There is no microphone connector.


Panasonic – HC-V270

AdvantagesFlaws
  • Possibility of connecting to Wi-Fi and NFC
  • the best optical stabilizer in this segment
  • when shooting Full HD number of frames per second = 50
  • matrix
  • connectors for HDMI or AV
  • touchscreen
  • battery life
  • no microphone output

8Panasonic HC-VXF990


And again Panasonic. In this price category, this manufacturer confidently outperforms its competitors, and the HC-VXF990 model is a prime example of this. Despite being positioned as an amateur camera, it shoots in 4K and supports HDR mode, in which two images with different exposures can be combined to restore over- and underexposed areas. The user has a large number of various artistic effects at his disposal.

Via the Wi-Fi module, you can control the video camera while being in the frame. The device has an electronic viewfinder and a standard set of interfaces, for example, there is a port for an external microphone. Mechanical buttons on the case allow you to quickly turn on Wi-Fi and activate HDR.

Pros:

  • Good optical stabilization
  • Many mode settings and special effects
  • Operation from an external power source
  • Quality lens from Leica
  • Wireless features
  • Reasonable price

Minuses:

  • "Noise" in low light
  • Weak battery
  • "Warming up" when turned on

The best mid-range video cameras

Panasonic HC-V770 is considered a good and inexpensive modification of the famous V700 version at a price of 24 thousand rubles. The changes affected the sound recording system, which now works in 5.1 format. The new version has a headphone jack. The buyer will also have the ability to transfer files directly to their phone or tablet.

The camera has a full range of functions that a novice operator may need. There is even the possibility of remote control of Wi-Fi facilities. The image quality cannot be called ideal, but you definitely can’t find fault with it. Like many cameras from Panasonic, there is 5-axis stabilization. Unfortunately, the engineers had to sacrifice optical zoom to increase the size of the matrix.


Panasonic HC-V770

AdvantagesFlaws
  • quality of shooting at night
  • display
  • WI-Fi and NFC modules
  • CMOS sensor
  • sound in 5.1 mode
  • handle with convenient fixation
  • connector for headphones and additional microphone
  • dimensions and weight
  • zoom x20

The new model from the Japanese from Canon is called LEGRIA HF M56, and will clearly take a leading place in the middle segment with a price of 38 thousand rubles. The engineers added a WiFi module and added 8 GB of memory. The camera's capabilities allow you to comfortably shoot in different modes and under different lighting conditions.


LEGRIA HF M56

AdvantagesFlaws
  • CMOS sensor module
  • display
  • WiFi module
  • presence of built-in memory
  • headphone jack
  • zoom 10x
  • no microphone port

Panasonic HC-VX870 is an affordable camera option for recording video in 4K format at a price of 43 thousand rubles. To do this, engineers from Japan had to increase the size of the matrix and build in a module with a resolution of 18 megapixels, which is why they had to cut the zoom to 20x. Unfortunately, when shooting in 4K, optical stabilization begins to lag.

AdvantagesFlaws
  • sound quality
  • shooting in 4K
  • high quality photos
  • Support high-speed shooting
  • price
  • zoom
  • battery life
  • no stabilization when shooting in 4K

7Sony FDR-AX100E


This model has many similarities with the more expensive FDR-AX700, but has a slightly less fast processor. However, there is little point in overpaying. The camera has a CMOS matrix with a resolution of 12.4 megapixels and a physical size of 1”. The lens supports 12x optical zoom and 160x digital zoom. You can manually set exposure and focus, there are 5 auto focus modes.

There is a viewfinder, a mechanical stabilizer and a touchscreen LCD screen. The video camera shoots in 4K resolution, that is, there are no questions regarding detail and sharpness. But it should be noted that in this mode the number of frames is limited to 25 FPS.

Pros:

  • Honest 4K
  • Reliable color rendition
  • Convenient control of shooting parameters
  • Two-level stabilizer
  • Automatic wind protection mode
  • Wireless control

Minuses:

  • Slow autofocus
  • "Noise" in the dark

6Sony PXW-X70

Sony used a Vario Sonnar T lens in this model, which scales the image up to 28x with optical zoom (with the activation of the Clear Image Zoom system) and up to 48x with digital zoom. And since it supports XAVC QFHD 4K format, the camcorder is quite capable of shooting at a professional level. The matrix has high sensitivity, and in addition, IR illumination is provided, which makes shooting in complete darkness very high quality.

Thanks to Wi-Fi support, the camera can be controlled remotely using a smartphone or tablet. By installing proprietary software of at least the third version, you can conduct offline streaming on a PC in QoS format without additional configuration.

Pros:

  • Superior image stabilization
  • Sensitive matrix
  • Compact dimensions
  • Waterproof housing
  • Sound quality from external microphone
  • Justified price

Minuses:

  • Inconvenient controls
  • 4K at extra cost

5Panasonic AG-HMC154


We cross the line of 100,000 rubles and get a professional middle-class video camera. Unlike other models in the rating, a CCD-type matrix (Full HD resolution) is used here - the signal is read line-by-line from photosensitive pixels. There are 9 automatic exposure modes and flexible manual settings. There is a pre-registration option. The camera can only record content onto SD cards; it does not have its own memory. In the package you will find a remote control.

The model is notable for its convenient tools for manual focusing, light weight, ease of operation and good shooting in the dark. Buyers highlight the built-in microphone, which makes it possible to get clear sound on recordings.

Pros:

  • Wide shooting angle
  • No codec artifacts
  • Excellent sensitivity in the dark
  • Deep image customization
  • Tapeless model

Minuses:

  • Long travel focusing ring
  • Long switch on
  • There are better viewfinders (insufficient clarity and width)

4Insta360 Pro 2

Spherical camera, the only “good quality video camera” in the rating that is capable of shooting in 8K resolution at 60 frames per second! The maximum photo size is 12000×12000. An almost unique specimen of its kind, one of the best solutions on the modern market. The model is aimed at commercial shooting and broadcasting of panoramic content; there is little point in purchasing it for personal use.

The video camera received 6 lenses at once and the possibility of convenient remote control via Insta360 FarSight. The content being filmed is adapted for any virtual reality glasses, and the video, shot in 3D format, will allow you to immerse yourself in the very depths of what is happening. The device has a built-in GPS module.

Pros:

  • 9-axis stabilization, effectively eliminate shaking
  • Large communication radius with the operator
  • Long work on one charge
  • High speed shooting and 3D
  • Convenient broadcasting via Insta360 FarSight
  • Isolated exposure

Minuses:

  • Discouraging price tag
  • Created for specific professionals

Sony HDR-CX900E

In the 2021 rating of video cameras, one cannot fail to include the Sony HDR-CX900E - a semi-professional model, one of the best in terms of price/quality ratio. The camera is miniature in size, but this does not prevent it from recording high-quality Full HD videos. For this, advanced image processing algorithms and a top-end matrix are used, which Sony produces independently. Sony's best video camera has a large sensor, which is one of the main advantages of this model and allows it to capture more light. The lens handles close-ups particularly well. The Sony HDR-CX900E is the best choice for those who want to shoot something of truly high quality.

Advantages:

  • Excellent picture quality and lack of noise;
  • Large matrix with good aperture ratio, which gives excellent results under any conditions;
  • Wide functionality and manual shooting mode for advanced users.

Flaws:

  • Not everyone will like the ergonomics of this model.

3Sony NEX-FS100


The cheapest digital professional video camera with E-mount, a direct competitor to the Panasonic AG-AF100. One of the best reportage and production cameras on the market. This camcorder has an excellent Exmore Super CMOS sensor and the ability to shoot in AVCHD. There are two XLR ports and a 3.5-inch display. An HDMI interface is provided to transfer content to large displays. Memory Stick and SD memory cards are supported. You can purchase an additional 128 GB HXR-FMU128 flash recorder.

The package includes a lens with a focal length of 18–200 mm. In Full HD resolution, video can be shot at a frame rate of 50 FPS per second.

A modular design solution has been implemented, so the screen, viewfinder and handle can be easily and simply detached if necessary.

Pros:

  • Minimum rolling shutter
  • Rich standard equipment
  • Possibility of installing any optics
  • Fast and high-quality autofocus
  • Slow Motion Mode
  • Good autonomy

Minuses:

  • Slow menu
  • No ND filters
  • Tight zoom ring

2Canon XF405

Lightweight and mobile camera with 4K video resolution. The optimal choice for professional shooting of reports, public and special events, and creating documentary stories. It has a high quality wide-angle lens with 15x optical zoom.

The device shoots in 4K Ultra HD / 50p, in slow motion Full HD / 100p, for which two DIGIC DV 6 processors and a CMOS 1.0 sensor are responsible. With Wide DR enabled (800% dynamic range), the camera is able to capture fine detail in shadows and brightly lit areas.

In the package you will find a battery and power adapter, a handle block, a remote control, a microphone holder, and a hood with a built-in shutter.

Pros:

  • Great picture in any conditions
  • Wide range of object illumination (0.1-100000 Lux)
  • Accurate autofocus
  • HDMI + 2 XLR + 3G-SDI
  • Remote wireless control
  • High quality materials and workmanship

Minuses:

  • Weak battery
  • Inability to charge the battery outside the camera

The best compact professional video cameras

Canon XF405 is widely used for professional TV shooting. Module with a 4K widescreen lens with x15 magnification. In Full HD mode – x30 combined type. It is based on a CMOS 1.0 sensor and two DIGIC No. 6 matrices, due to which video is shot in 4K at Ultra HD50p. For macro photography, the Wide RD mode with 800% dynamic range is suitable. However, the cost is steep - 250 thousand rubles. Many film enthusiasts have already said that this is the best video camera for professionals.

The JVC GY-GM200E is almost 100 thousand rubles cheaper – its cost is 150 thousand rubles, but is not much inferior to the previous model. The built-in module with IP option allows you to shoot even in a poorly lit room. CMOS sensor with a size of 1/2.3 and a resolution of 12.4 megapixels with support for WRD dynamic type. The disadvantage is that the device weighs more than one and a half kilograms.

1Sony PXW-X400KF


Our leader is another representative of the Sony manufacturer, the PXW-X400KF model, created for professional tasks. That’s why its price is appropriate.

It would seem that the technical characteristics are not outstanding: shooting resolution is only Full HD (60 frames per second), 16x optical zoom, focal length is 8–128 mm. It seems like nothing special, but the “devil” is hidden in the configuration of the video camera and its additional capabilities. We are talking about the possibility of changing the lens, the presence of built-in color filters and viewfinder, and high microphone sensitivity. There is HD-SDI and a headphone jack.

3 powerful Exmor CMOS sensors with a physical size of 2/3″ provide impressive shooting quality. The shoulder-mounted camcorder actually has everything you need for full-fledged professional video shooting.

Pros:

  • Recording to Flash media
  • 16x zoom lens with autofocus
  • Wide support for SD and HD codecs
  • Intelligent weight distribution
  • Advanced network connectivity
  • Simultaneous recording on 2 media

Minuses:

  • High price

Which video camera is best for filming in 2020?

If you are just starting your career as a videographer or are looking for a device for amateur filming, there is no point in buying expensive equipment. Learn from something budget-friendly but worth your attention (for example, from the models at the top of our rating). Without being aware of all the possibilities and all the intricacies of professional video shooting, you should not chase impressive technical data. The practical experience gained, new knowledge and new personal requirements for the quality of shooting will allow you to formulate your own list of selection criteria in the future.

As for brands, the recognized market leaders are Sony and Panasonic. Canon and JVC are slightly inferior to them, but in the class of professional video cameras they are less expensive and almost identical in their capabilities. Trust only trusted manufacturers.

Which video camera is better to buy?

The most general criteria for choosing a video camera include video quality (resolution), form factor and design features, as well as available functionality.

The quality of the picture is influenced by many factors, primarily the resolution of the matrix, sensitivity and stabilization capabilities. Resolution reflects the degree of detail in the image generated by the camera. The traditional leaders in this indicator among video camera manufacturers are Sony and Panasonic. Sensitivity is most important when shooting in low light conditions and, as a rule, it is adjusted in hardware or manually.

Camera stabilization can be mechanical or electronic. In the first case, the camera is equipped with elements that change their position in space - a system of lenses suspended in a magnetic field. Among the advantages of such stabilization are independence from shooting conditions and the use of the entire available area of ​​the matrix. The main drawback is poor adaptability to external influences (shocks, moisture, dust, etc.). Therefore, action cameras are equipped with an electronic stabilizer, which has no moving elements.

Most modern full-size video cameras are designed as a standard tube with a handle on the right side - this form factor is much more convenient for shooting than, for example, a smartphone or tablet. The exception is the same action cameras, which are rarely used handheld.

The latest generation of video cameras are equipped with so many functionalities that the owner of the device almost never uses many of them, and some of them are not even known about. The more options a camera has, the higher its price, so when choosing a device, it's worth considering whether you'll ever need a feature touted by the manufacturer.

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