As of 2019, Canon is pretty much as good as it gets when it comes to DSLRs and compact cameras. Their wide variety of DSLRs, superior color science, and affordable price points means that they are by far the most popular choice for both new vloggers and industry professionals.
But with so many options, it can be hard to figure out what the best canon camera for vlogging is. The answer can actually be quite different depending on what type of vlogger you are! We put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand which camera will be the best for you.
Contents
- 1 Best Canon Vlogging Cameras For YouTube – Our Top 6 Picks
- 1.1 Why Buy Canon?
- 1.2 1. All Around Best Canon Camera For Vlogging
- 1.3 2. Best Compact Canon Vlogging Camera
- 1.4 3. Best Budget Canon Camera For Vlogging
- 1.5 4. Best Premium Canon Camera For Vlogging
- 1.6 5. Best Mirrorless Canon Camera For Vlogging
- 1.7 More In-Depth Info On Mirrorless Cameras
- 1.8 6. Best High-End Photography/Vlogging Hybrid Canon Camera
- 2 Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Canon Vlogging Camera
Best Canon Vlogging Cameras For YouTube – Our Top 6 Picks
![Canon Digital SLR Camera Body [EOS 80D] with 24.2 Megapixel (APS-C) CMOS Sensor and Dual Pixel CMOS AF - Black](https://filmtoolkit.com/wp-content/plugins/aawp/public/assets/img/thumb-spacer.png)
Why Buy Canon?
You may know that Canon makes the most popular cameras on the market, but not fully understand why just yet. Here’s just a few reasons why they’re worth your money.
Color Science
For photo and video aficionados, color science is usually the first thing that comes to mind when discussing Canon. The natural color profile is very popular, making both skin tones and landscapes have an aesthetic that just feels right, especially when compared to other camera manufacturers.
Best-In-Class Autofocus
Canon has a strong reputation in the production community for having stronger auto-focus technology than Nikon, Sony, or Panasonic. There have been steady improvements by Sony lately, but they still can’t match the precision and speed the Canon has been consistently bringing to the table for several years with their Dual Pixel AF.
Lens Mount Popularity
It’s no secret that Canon makes great lenses, and at this point their cameras are compatible with countless lenses that can fit every single need and price point. Even extremely high-end professional lenses often come with EF-mounting options to be used with Canon cameras. They’re simply more widely available and as a consequence, typically cheaper as well.
Reliability
While even strong brands like Nikon and Sony have suffered various build quality issues over the years, Canon has remained pretty much the Toyota of cameras in terms of stability and longevity. They’re incredibly well built and reliable, and if you’re horribly unlucky, the customer support is excellent.
1. All Around Best Canon Camera For Vlogging
- 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- 45-point Dual Pixel AF system with all cross-type point
- 1080p/60fps video capture
- 3.0” LCD monitor tilts up 180° and down 45°
- 7.0 fps continuous shooting
- Durable and weather-resistant body
- Wi-Fi + NFC
Our pick for the all-around best Canon camera for vlogging is the Canon 80D. It’s the most well rounded camera on this list, and is a great “default” choice if you simply want want an excellent camera.
Seeing as it is the camera of choice of renowned vlogger Casey Neistat, who has tried just about every camera ever, it’s an easy recommendation as the best canon vlogging camera. With the durable build, flip up screen, external mic ports and lightweight construction, it far exceeds all of Canon’s other options when it comes to the criteria that vloggers care about.
The 80D has an overall nice comfortable design that makes the camera very convenient to use for vlogging. Its pretty lightweight when compared to other DSLRs, but is still heavy enough to utilize heavier lens kits. The grip on the camera is also a nice touch, making it easier for you to capture smooth shots.
You will find that the 80D’s autofocus is incredibly fast, especially with the help of the LCD display on the back. Having the ability to quickly pull focus using the touch screen is great and the face tracking works well too. The Canon 80D can record high-quality video up to 60fps in 1080p HD. Video footage captured with the 80D is pleasant, focused, and cinematic and you can also capture nice slow-motion shots with the high framerate capabilities, great for B-Roll footage for your vlogs.
While many cameras offer the option of recording in 4K, it might not be the most necessary feature needed for vlogging. The hyper-detail in 4K cameras can often feel off cinematically as people are not as accustomed to the UltraHD look. Also recording in 4K takes up more memory storage, so you might find yourself having to invest more in storage devices if you wanted to go that route.
This camera also comes with features that vloggers will absolutely love. The flip-up LCD monitor on this DSLR camera makes it much easier for vloggers to frame their shots as they vlog. The 80D does extremely well in low light conditions, giving vloggers the confidence to record any time of the day. It also has external microphone ports, allowing vloggers to equip their camera set-up with a external mic for higher quality audio. You will have more creative flexibility with this camera since its lens is interchangeable. This camera has a lightweight but durable design, making it ideal for vlogging since its much easier to bring around.
Pros
- Full HD 1080p up to 60fps with fast autofocus
- Excellent in low light conditions
- Flip-up screen and external microphone ports
- Fairly light weight compared to other DSLRs
Cons
- No 4K video
- Single SD card slot
2. Best Compact Canon Vlogging Camera
- 1.0-inch, 20.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
- DIGIC 7 Image Processor
- Built-in wide angles lens (24mm–100mm) f/1.8 (W), f/2.8 (T)
- 1080pHD (24fps, 30fps, and 60fps)
- 3.0″ LCD monitor tilts up 180° and down 45°
- Wi-Fi + NFC
- Durable build and design
The Canon G7x Mark II is one of Canon’s most popular cameras for vlogging. It’s one of the go-to cameras for a lot of vloggers online for its high-quality video capturing capabilities and compact size. This camera comes with so many great features that vloggers love, all at a very good price.
You will find that this camera has a large 1-inch, 20.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor that helps you capture high-quality images and videos. This camera has a wide angle (24mm-100mm) lens that allows vloggers to capture more during every recording session. It also has long-range zooming capabilities with its 4.2x optical zoom.
The G7x Mark II is capable of recording video in full 1080pHD in 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps. You will be able to capture high-quality slow-motion video with this camera.
Vloggers love the high-resolution, 3.0″ touchscreen display that can tilt up 180° and down 45°. This feature allows vloggers to frame their shots more effectively while they vlog, assuring that they’re capturing everything that they intend to capture.
It has built-in-wifi that makes it more convenient to transfer images and videos straight to your smartphones device with Canon’s app.
Do keep in mind that there is no 4K video recording available on the Canon G7x Mark II, however, many users have still found that the HD quality of the video is very good. Also some users of the G7x Mark II have voiced their opinions on how the images and videos that they captured with this camera tends to come out more saturated than what they want. The color does tend to pop out more on the images/videos that are captured with the G7x Mark II, however, this will rely on preference as some users have found the extra color in their footage to be appealing. It saves them time in post since they won’t have to put more work into color grading their video footage.
Overall the G7x Mark II from Canon is an excellent compact vlogging camera. With its lightweight design and high-quality video capturing capabilities, any vlogger will find the G7x Mark II as an excellent camera for vlogging.
Pros
- Many features that are good for vlogging
- FullHD 1080p up to 60fps
- Wide angle lens with 4.2x optical zoom
- Built-in wifi for easy file transfer
Cons
- No 4K video
- Battery life could be better
3. Best Budget Canon Camera For Vlogging
- 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
- ISO 100–12800 (expandable to H: 25600)
- 19-point all cross-type AF system
- DIGIC 6 Image Processor
- High-speed photography at up to 5 frames per second
- Touchscreen flip-up monitor
- Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities
If you’re looking for a great DSLR for vlogging at a more affordable price, the Canon T6i is an excellent choice, especially if you’re just getting started. This is our suggestion as an alternative to those who want something similar to our number one choice, the 80D, but are willing to sacrifice a bit of quality for a much cheaper camera.
It’s a DSLR camera that is capable of recording Full HD 1080p at 30fps and can even record 60fps at 720p, allowing vloggers to capture footage for slow-motion content. Its 19-point all cross-type autofocus system works well at assuring that your footage is focused during recording sessions.
It’s reliable at tracking and focusing on your face as you record as long as you remain within the frame. The camera also does a good job at recording video in low light conditions.
The T6i is lightweight in design, making it easier to carry around with you on your vlogging adventures. Its flip-up screen is a nice feature that vloggers will often use as it makes it easier to keep track of what you are recording. You will also have the option of using an external microphone with this camera to enhance your audio quality.
We did find that the battery life for this camera isn’t the best, especially if you’re recording video in 60fps. If you’re a vlogger who plans on recording for extended periods of time without access to an outlet to charge your battery, definitely pick up some extra sets of batteries for your camera.
Overall, the Canon T6i is a very good camera for vlogging, especially at the reasonable price point.
Pros
- High-quality and affordable
- Full HD 1080p at 30fps
- Good in low light conditions
- Lightweight DSLR with a flip-up screen
Cons
- No 4K video and 60fps only at 720p.
- Battery life isn’t the best
4. Best Premium Canon Camera For Vlogging
- 30.4 MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- 61-point AF system with 41 cross-points for expanded vertical coverage
- 4K video recording at 30fps or 24fps
- DIGIC 6+ Image Processor
- Native ISO 32000, Expanded to ISO 102400
- Touch-screen LCD monitor
- Built-In GPS and Wi-Fi with NFC
The Canon 5D Mark IV makes it onto our list as our premium option for people who are looking for the highest quality footage with a few caveats. The camera lacks a flip screen, and is quite a bit more expensive, but for some, those sacrifices will be well worth it.
The 30.4 MP full-frame sensor is massive, and gives the images a clarity unmatched by just about any of Canon’s other offerings. The 5D also has a much wider ISO range than our other options, going all the way up to an ISO of 102400, allowing the EOS 5D Mark IV to perform extremely well in low light conditions. The higher ISO range also helps to eliminate the blurring effects that come from camera shake.
One of the first things you’ll notice after picking up this camera is its weight. While this camera isn’t considered lightweight, it’s not heavy either. Many have found that the 5D Mark IV is at a nice steady weight that makes it easier for them to capture stable video footage. You’ll have more control of your camera, being able to position it in different angles comfortably to capture the footage you want.
It’s capable of capturing videos in 4K UltraHD up to 60fps and Full 1080p HD up to 120fps. This gives you the ability to capture smooth slow-motion 4k shots.
The touch panel on this camera allows users to swipe through numerous operations more conveniently, such as making changes to the frame, accessing the menus or any other setting adjustments you need to make. To top it all off, this camera has a nice 3.2-inch touchscreen display.
Once again, keep in mind that this camera’s touchscreen display isn’t capable of flipping upwards like other cameras that we have mentioned on this list. This means you won’t be able to look at an image preview while you vlog yourself, which can be difficult for some. While this can be a hindrance at first, it can be alleviated by using wide-angle lenses, or even purchasing an external monitor to mount on top of the camera.
Overall, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is an excellent choice for any vlogger looking to use a higher quality premium camera for their vlogs. It does come at a pricer price tag, however, the features and video capturing capabilities of this camera make it all worth it.
Pros
- Premium quality camera
- 4K UltraHD video up to 60fps and Full 1080pHD up to 120fps
- Extremely good in low light conditions
- Wide ISO range (100-32000)
Cons
- More expensive
- No flip-up screen
5. Best Mirrorless Canon Camera For Vlogging
- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- UltraHD 4K and HD 720p120 Video Recording
- DIGIC 8 Image Processor
- 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
- 3.0″ Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD
- Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC, & Bluetooth
Now, if you’re a vlogger looking for a mirrorless camera that’s great for vlogging, you definitely need to consider the Canon M50. Here’s just a few of the great benefits of mirrorless cameras.
- Much higher refresh rates, giving you a smoother preview on your LCD.
- Much smaller form factor, making them extremely portable.
- Improved Hybrid Auto-Focus Systems.
- Superior Low Light Performance
- Less moving parts, meaning less things that can get damaged.
- Less parts also means a higher image quality to price ratio.
A camera that is often compared to the popular Canon G7x Mark II for having many great features that make it an ideal choice for vlogging. It does cost more than a G7x Mark II, however, the M50 is a higher-quality camera overall that comes with more features.
The Canon EOS M50 is capable of capturing 4K video footage at 24fps and Full HD 1080p up to 60fps. Do keep in mind that when you record in 4K, the camera will capture content with an additional crop factor of 1.6x on top of the cropping factors that APS-C cameras have. This means your 4K video footage will be more zoomed in. You also won’t be able to utilize the Dual Pixel Auto Focus when recording in 4K.
So if you really need to use the camera’s autofocusing features, you’re going to have to record in 1080p instead.
The M50 is the first camera in Canon’s M-series to have an electronic viewfinder, which is very useful if you’re shooting in brighter environments that would normally make the LCD screen difficult to see. It’s also assuring to see that the camera’s viewfinder is capable of flipping up, making it easier for vloggers to frame their shots to their liking.
This camera has an external microphone port, allowing you to significantly improve your audio. You’ll also have more freedom with the type of lenses you wanted to use as this camera’s lens are interchangeable.
All of these amazing features in a camera that is lighter weight than other DSLR cameras that produce similar results. Do keep in mind that the battery life on this camera isn’t the best, so make sure to pick up some extra batteries if needed.
Overall, the Canon EOS M50 is a great camera from Canon for anyone who wants a mirrorless camera for their vlogs. Being able to have all of these features in such a lightweight camera really makes the M50 stand out compared to other cameras on this list.
More In-Depth Info On Mirrorless Cameras
Size and Weight
Mirrorless cameras are smaller in size and weigh less than their DSLR counterparts. This is a result of mirrorless cameras not requiring a reflex mirror like DSLR cameras. Without the mirror taking up space inside the body, mirrorless cameras can be made much smaller, but still captures high-quality images and videos.
No Mirror Mechanism
Since there won’t be any mirror flipping up and down, many more advantages are introduced. There’s going to be less noise that is normally caused by mirror slap. There’s also going to be less camera shake since the only physical component in the mirrorless camera that can cause vibrations is the camera shutter. You can even disable the shutter completely and shoot with an electronic shutter to get rid of camera shake completely.
It’s much easier to clean a mirrorless camera since the sensor is exposed once you remove the lens. There’s also a smaller chance for dust to get caught and circulate since most mirrorless cameras don’t have an opening under the mirror to house a phase detection sensor and other components.
Having no mirror mechanism also makes the overall build cheaper to manufacture and support, as there are less moving parts that can break.
Pros
- 4K video up to 24fps and 1080p up to 60fps
- Lightweight mirrorless camera
- External microphone port
- Flip-up screen
Cons
- 4K video footage is cropped (1.6x crop factor)
- Short battery life
6. Best High-End Photography/Vlogging Hybrid Canon Camera
- 20.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- 61-Point High Density Reticular AF II
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF and Movie Servo AF
- DCI 4K Video at 60 fps, 8.8MP Still Grab
- Dual DIGIC 6+ Image Processors
- Native ISO 51200, Expanded to ISO 409600
- 3.2″ 1.62m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor
- Built-In GPS, CFast & CF Card Slots
If you’re a vlogger looking for a high-end camera that is great for both photography and vlogging, you definitely need to check out the Canon 1Dx Mark II. This camera is the device of choice for one of our favorite vloggers, Peter Mckinnon, a hybrid photographer/vlogger
The 1Dx Mark II is capable of capturing UltraHD 4K up to 60fps which can give you high-quality slow-motion video footage. It’s also capable of capturing video in Full HD 1080p up to 120fps, which looks extremely smooth and crisp.
With its 4K video capturing capabilities, you’ll be able to achieve a beautiful cinematic look with your videos/vlogs. Also, the color that this camera is capable of capturing is so nice, that you might find yourself satisfied with the raw video footage you capture with this camera, saving you time from color grading in post. Its autofocus feature in video mode is extremely fast and reliable. Everything is automatic, but you also have the option to select what you want to be focused on using the touchscreen.
The overall build of the Canon 1Dx Mark II is durable and slick with its rugged magnesium alloy body. It’s built to be dust and weather resistant, making it very good for demanding shooting/filming situations.
Do keep in mind that this camera is bulkier and heavier then the other Canon cameras on this list, however, the quality that it can produce and capture is unmatched. Also, there is no flip-up display/viewfinder, so you won’t be able to check to see if you’re capturing everything you want when vlogging yourself. If you plan to utilize this camera’s 4K or 120fps video recording features, you will need CFast cards as CF cards won’t be fast enough. Invest in CFast cards early on so you don’t run into any problems later.
Photography
The Canon 1Dx Mark II is one of the best cameras for photography available in the market today. It’s the best Canon DSLR camera for sports, action, wildlife, and other types of photography. Images taken with the 1DX come out amazing.
This camera is capable of capturing up to 14fps full-resolution RAW or JPEG and even up to 16fps in Live View mode. The buffer can hold 170 frames before it starts to slow, meaning you can shoot for 10-12 seconds at a time in raw format. This camera’s tracking focus performance has improved, helping to track quicker moving subjects. It will definitely help if you’re taking photos of fast-moving objects, assuring that they stay in focus.
Overall the Canon 1Dx Mark II is a professional camera that produces professional results. You will be able to capture some of the highest quality videos/photos you can get from a Canon camera with the 1Dx Mark II. It is bulkier and heavier than any other camera on this list, but the quality is unmatched.
Pros
- High-end professional camera
- Very good for both photography and videography (UltraHD 4k up to 60fps)
- Extremely fast and reliable autofocusing
- Very durable and weather resistant
Cons
- Very expensive
- Bulkier and heavier
Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Canon Vlogging Camera
Here’s a breakdown of what you should be taking into consideration when choosing which Canon camera you’d like to start your vlogging adventure with!
Features
When choosing a good vlogging camera from Canon, you have to figure out what features you are looking for. Every camera has its own set of features that set them apart from the rest, but what are you looking for when you vlog? Is it important to have a flip-up screen? Do you absolutely need to record video in 4K? These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself before making your final decision on a camera.
Size and Portability
The size and the portability of the camera are also important factors you need to consider before choosing a camera from Canon for vlogging. While there are DSLR cameras that come with great vlogging features such as external microphone ports and interchangeable lens, they are heavier and bulkier.
If you’re a vlogger who really needs a vlogging camera that is lightweight and portable, then take a look at Canon’s compact point-and-shoot cameras or their M-series line (Mirrorless Cameras). Vlogging is a very active style of videography. It would be best to get a camera that you are comfortable bringing around for extended periods of time.
Price
Of course, with more features comes a heftier price tag. Figure out what your budget is before looking at cameras. This makes it easier for you to figure out what range of cameras you can look at. You can still find a very high-quality vlogging camera from Canon that doesn’t break your bank. Just plan it out in the beginning and work from there.
Well there you have it, the best Canon vlogging cameras for YouTube. We hope our list has helped you figure out what type of camera you’re looking for when it comes to vlogging. Best of luck and have fun vlogging!
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