5 Best Cheap Cameras for YouTube in 2023 – Budget Picks –

If you are a vlogger, YouTuber, or any other type of content creator that works on a budget, we have a real treat for you today since we are going to talk about the best cheap cameras for YouTube you can find in today’s market.

Although it is not an easy endeavor, it is possible to find a suitable camera with a lower price tag, but it is necessary to know the important features and specs that will make you worthwhile. We understand that this can be very challenging, so we did a bit of research so you will not have to. You will find some very interesting choices in today’s article, as well as a comprehensive buying guide that will point you toward the ideal pick that will serve your purposes best. We have a lot to cover, so let us begin.

List of the Best Budget Vlogging Cameras for YouTube

1. Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Compact Digital Camera

This entry-level camera is super compact, convenient, and affordable. It comes from a renowned Canon brand and sports a better-than-average 1-inch-type CMOS sensor. The fact that this is an entry-level unit means that there are some interesting user-friendly features that ensure that even some inexperienced users can find their way with the interface.

The interface is touch-screen based, so any smartphone user will find some familiar commands and features to work with. As far as the body of the camera goes, it is rather compact and small, but its size does not compromise on performance and image quality which is a great piece of news.

With dimensions standing at 98 x 57.9 x 31.3 mm and weighing only 206 grams, this camera is compact as pretty much any camera can get. It is also quite thin and feels very comfortable in the photographer’s hand.

Despite its small size, this camera packs a 1-inch size sensor, with 4x the surface area of a ½.3-inch sensor you can usually find in common compact cameras and phones. Given the fact that the surface area is increased, the sensors are a bit more light-sensitive, meaning that they will grant you less image grain, especially when you work in conditions with less light.

It is a unit that sports Canon’s last-generation Digic 7 image processor, which is very powerful and can provide raw image capture at an 8.2 fps continuous shooting rate. Although this unit cannot facilitate 4K video recording, you will get fantastic 1080p Full HD video.

Body Type
Compact

Max Resolution
5427 x 3648

Effective Pixels
20 Megapixels

Sensor Size
1” (13.2 x 8.8 mm)

Sensor Type
BSI-CMOS

ISO
Auto, 125-8200

Focal Length
28 – 84 mm

Max Aperture
F2 – 4.9

Articulated LCD
Fixed

Screen Size
3”

Screen Dots
1.040.000

Max Shutter Speed
1 / 2000 sec

Format
MPEG-4, H264

Storage Types
SD, SDHC, SDXC

USB
USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/Sec)

Weight (With Battery)
206 g

Dimensions
98 x 58 x 31.3 mm

GPS
None

Verdict

Small, compact, and cheap, PowerShot G9 X Mark II is a fantastic entry-level camera that will suit anyone who has budget limitations but requires a solid and well-performing camera for vlogging purposes. It is a user-friendly unit that is easy to use and get used to, making it a great consideration.

Pros

• Miniature and compact size
• Fantastic image quality from a relatively large sensor
• Great photos in darker surroundings
• Excellent price considering the features you get

Cons

• No 4K video
• No electronic viewfinder

2. Sony a5100 16-50mm Interchangeable Lens Camera

Sony Alpha a5100 is another camera that offers a compact size and low price tag. It is a very impressive unit that boasts a 24.3 MP APS-C CMOS sensor and runs on a very fast BIONZ X image processor. All of this is packed in a lightweight and compact body, making it very accessible and easy to use for both beginners and pros.

The size of this camera is so small that it can almost fit in your pocket, so you will be able to carry it around wherever you want. This is particularly convenient for users that create YouTube content while on the move or in the great outdoors, where it is essential to save some extra storage space.

Do not let the fact that this is a rather light unit discourage you from buying it, as its build quality is very solid. Although the body of this camera is not water-sealed, it is understandable since most cameras in this price range do not offer such a feature.

Although Sony is often criticized for their menus, we found this model’s menu pretty easy to navigate and use. You will get a grasp on wheel controls pretty fast, as well as shooting modes, ISO settings, and similar functions you get. Moreover, you can customize the menu settings according to your preferences, but leaving it as it is can also be a good option to hold on to.

This camera features a 3-inch LCD display, which you can use to focus and fine-tune your photos, and also to navigate the menu easier. Images are also very good, and you get more than satisfying results at this price point. Photos from all three lenses are very sharp, so you might find it troublesome to figure out which lens was which when judging the images alone.

Body Type
Rangefinder-style mirrorless

Max Resolution
6000 x 4000

Effective Pixels
24 Megapixels

Sensor Size
APS – C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)

Sensor Type
CMOS

ISO
Auto, 100 – 25600

Lens Mount
Sony E

Focal Length
16 – 50 mm

Articulated LCD
Tilting

Screen Size
3”

Screen Dots
921.600

Max Shutter Speed
1 / 4000 Sec

Format
MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S

Storage Types
SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo

USB
USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/Sec)

Weight (With Battery)
283 g

Dimensions
110 x 63 x 36 mm

GPS
None

Verdict

Although this is a rather small unit, it sports some fantastic specifications and offers a set of features you would likely expect to get from a more expensive camera. You get fantastic images out of it, and due to its compact size, it is incredibly easy to carry it around pretty much anywhere.

Pros

• Lightweight and compact
• Wi-Fi and NFC support
• Very fast AF
• Amazing high ISO performance
• Rechargeable Li-ion battery
• Fast and accurate auto-focus
• Built-in tutorials for novices

Cons

• No viewfinder
• It might be difficult to see what is on the screen in bright light

3. Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera

EOS Rebel T7 DSLR camera is a perfect option to go for if you want to get a better image and video quality and get more control. It is a camera with a 24-megapixel sensor and some interesting performance improvements when compared to its predecessor, T6.

Depending on the shop you are purchasing it from, this camera is generally available for around 500 USD, which is a nice bargain considering everything that you get for it. You will get excellent image quality, ease of use, and compact size, all wrapped in one little package that will serve you for a long time.

This is one of the smaller DSLRs you can find in today’s market, and same as our previous two picks, it is very compact and a great option to carry with you wherever you go. It weighs 475 grams, so it is a bit heavier than the previous two, but it is still pretty light and portable.

EOS Rebel has been a series favorable by users that require affordable but capable DSLR for a very long time. It delivers outstanding image quality, and when you consider the price point it comes with, it is a very pleasant surprise. Under well-lit conditions, this camera delivers exceptional results.

The colors are also very bright and well-saturated, even when you use Auto and Standard picture styles, which is a great piece of news for less-experienced users. The camera captures details faithfully, and you get very nice additional options for photo taking, such as neutral, sharpness, contrast, saturation, etc.

Body Type
Compact SLR

Max Resolution
6000 x 4000

Effective Pixels
24 Megapixels

Sensor Size
APS – C (22.3 x 14.9 mm)

Sensor Type
CMOS

ISO
Auto, ISO 100 – 6400, Expandable to 8200

Lens Mount
Canon EF / EF-S

Focal Length
28.8 – 88 mm

Articulated LCD
Fixed

Screen Size
3”

Screen Dots
920.000

Max Shutter Speed
1 / 4000 Sec

Format
MPEG-4, H.264

Storage Types
SD, SDHC, SDXC

USB
USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/Sec)

Weight (With Battery)
475 g

Dimensions
129 x 101 x 78 mm

GPS
None

Verdict

This budget-friendly unit will grant you exceptional and consistent performance, especially in well-lit surroundings. Most of the photos you take with this camera will require minimum editing, and the video quality is also on point and well-suited for YouTubers and other content creators.

Although you will not get 4K video recording capabilities, you will still be able to capture the videos in Full HD 1920 x 1080 clips at 30 FPS. It is an excellent camera from a well-known manufacturer and a product worthy of your attention.

Pros

• Low price for a DSLR camera
• Superb autofocus
• Excellent image quality (especially in well-lit rooms)
• Portable size
• A solid set of features
• In-camera guide

Cons

• Slow continuous shooting
• No touch screen
• No 4K video

4. Fujifilm X-S10 Mirrorless Camera

When we talk about mid-range mirrorless cameras, we absolutely must mention the Fujifilm X-S10 mirrorless camera. It has fantastic in-body image stabilization, and it is by far one of the best cameras for vloggers, YouTubers, and other content creators that want to capture quality videos without breaking the bank.

As far as the design of the X-S10 goes, it is an interesting blend of vintage and modern wrapped in one neat little package. It has a nice and deep grip, and it is pretty light, so you can almost fit it inside your pocket. The camera also sports a magnesium alloy build that ensures you get that premium feel.

Granted, this is the most expensive entry on our list, but it is within the limits of reason, especially due to the fact you are getting some amazing features. Controls are relatively easy to use, but they are not a complete ergonomic success, as the power button may be a bit slippery.

X-S10 uses 26.1 megapixels black-illuminated sensor as some other cameras in this series, including X-T4 and X-T30. The overall image quality is truly incredible, and the colors are very vivid and pass the eye test almost every time. You can get excellent photos and videos in both illuminated and darker surroundings.

Again, this is a bit more expensive unit, but considering its all-around capabilities and features that come with it, it is safe to say that there is low to no chance that you will find such a good camera for such a low price.

Body Type
SLR-Style Mirrorless

Max Resolution
6240 x 4160

Effective Pixels
26 Megapixels

Sensor Size
APS – C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)

Sensor Type
BSI – CMOS

ISO
Auto, 160 – 8200, Expandable to 80 – 51200

Lens Mount
Fujifilm X

Focal Length
16 to 80 mm

Articulated LCD
Fully Articulated

Screen Size
3”

Screen Dots
1.040.000

Max Shutter Speed
1 / 4000 Sec

Format
MPEG-4, H.264

Storage Types
SD, SDHC, SDXC

USB
USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/Sec)

Weight (With Battery)
465 g

Dimensions
126 x 85 x 65 mm

GPS
None

Verdict

This is by far one of the best small mid-range cameras you can find out there. It is jam-packed with excellent features that ensure quality image and video capturing, and its amazing capabilities ensure that every dollar you invest in it will be very much worth it. This is not a flawless camera, but it is certainly one of the best in the market at this price point.

Pros

• IBIS in a small body
• Comfortable grip and easy handling
• Excellent for video capturing
• Delivers quality images in illuminated and dark surroundings
• Front-facing display
• Fast and very reliable autofocus

Cons

• Battery life could be better
• The limited touchscreen menu system

5. Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera

RX100 is a fantastic budget choice that you can get under 400 dollars in most stores. It is a pocket-size camera that sports a 1-inch sensor, and it is super light and compact so that you can carry it with you whenever you want to take your vlogging away from the comforts of your household.

Generally speaking, this is a camera that is fairly easy to use, but users with larger hands might experience some issues while doing it. However, if you are able to pass this, you will find that this is a feature-rich camera with some amazing capabilities that are well above its price range.

Right from the get-go, you will notice that Sony was concentrated on providing photography enthusiasts with everything they need, and all of that with a lower price tag. It is a beautifully designed unit but lacks environmental sealings, meaning that you will have to be careful and protect it from water and dust.

It features 20 megapixels, and you can shoot photos at 5472 x 3648 resolution, which is very impressive. Although this camera lacks modern features such as a tilting touch screen, 4K video, and Wi-Fi, it still has a lot of interesting capabilities to the table that every photography and video enthusiast will appreciate.

On the other hand, it does come with an NFC feature that allows this camera to communicate with other devices, such as smartphones or any other piece of technology that has this feature. It is a great budget pick up, and any vlogger and YouTuber that does not require some spectacular video quality should consider it.

Body Type
Compact

Max Resolution
5472 x 3648

Effective Pixels
20 Megapixels

Sensor Size
1”

Sensor Type
CMOS

ISO
Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 8200, 25600

Focal Length
28 – 100 mm

Max Aperture
F1.8 – 4.9

Articulated LCD
Fixed

Screen Size
3”

Screen Dots
1.228.800

Max Shutter Speed
1 / 2000 Sec

Format
MPEG-4, AVCHD

Storage Types
SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, Pro-HG Duo

USB
USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/Sec)

Weight (With Battery)
240 g

Dimensions
102 x 58 x 36

GPS
None

Verdict

With video recording options including 1920 x 1080 Full HD on 50 FPS in AVCHD format, this camera is more than suitable for YouTube videos and other similar needs. It offers excellent image quality in both illuminated and dark conditions. RX100 is by far the cheapest option on our list, but it is designed to serve various purposes, making it a great pickup for everyone that works on a budget.

Pros

• NFC connectivity
• Image stabilization
• Full HD video
• Long battery life
• Timelapse with an optional downloadable app
• Remote control with a smartphone

Cons

• No WiFi
• No 4K video
• No environmental sealing

Things to Consider When Buying a Cheap Camera for YouTube

Working on a budget does not mean you cannot get a good camera. You likely will not be able to afford some premium features, but you will certainly be able to get something that can suit your needs and deliver excellent videos. In the section below, we have listed some important things to keep in mind when buying a cheap camera.

Video Quality and Resolution

It goes without saying that the video quality your camera delivers is essential for YouTube content creators. Although it is unlikely that you will be able to find a camera that can capture 4K videos when working on the budget, you should not settle for anything less than Full HD.

Stabilization

Stabilization is a very important thing to consider when buying a camera for YouTube filming, especially if you are not working in a studio setting. When working on the budget, look for cameras that offer IBIS (in-body image stabilization). It will help you stabilize the video and get smooth, shake-free recordings.

Autofocus

Autofocus is supposed to be one of the biggest priorities, especially if you are self-shooting for YouTube. With a suitable autofocus feature, you will get nice videos and will be able to capture exactly what you planned to, and all of that in the highest quality available.

Battery Life

Battery life is another important consideration when buying a cheap camera. It is especially important if you are recording videos away from a household or in a space that has no electric outlets for recharging the battery. However, if you are always filming from the comforts of your home, this is not something that should be a deal-maker or breaker.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What features are most important in cameras for YouTube?

When shooting videos for YouTube or vlogs, it is important to have decent video quality resolution and autofocus. It is also essential to have a camera with good built-in stabilization so that the videos you are filming do not get shaky or blurry when moving.

2. Do I require an external microphone for filming YouTube videos?

Although some cheap cameras do come with built-in microphones, they are usually very poor quality-wise, so it would be wise to consider purchasing an external mic. A solid external microphone will provide you with clear audio, which is necessary for YouTubers, as everything they are saying while being recorded will be much more understandable.

3. Do cheap vlogging cameras allow you to live stream?

Some models do, but it is a rare feature in budget cameras. You will likely require some additional hardware and software solutions, such as Lightstream or Wirecast, to make this happen.

4. Are cheap entry-level cameras sufficient for YouTube videos and vlogging?

Yes, you can find more than decent entry-level cameras for vlogging that possess features necessary for this use. However, these cameras will only get you so far, and when you decide to upgrade, consider purchasing mid-range cameras such as Sony ZV-1, Canon EOS 90D, or something similar.

5. What camera is good for skits and short videos?

It would be best to go for some type of DSLR, but this is something that entirely depends on your budget. From the cameras we have listed in this guide, it would be wisest to opt for Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR.

Final Words

This concludes our guide for the best budget cameras for YouTube. As you can see, there are some excellent options for you to go for, and although you will lack some premium features, you will still be able to capture excellent videos and work your way in the YouTube industry.

We hope you liked our picks and that you will find a suitable match for your next video. In case you still cannot decide which one to go for, we strongly suggest our number one pick, as it offers an exceptional price/value ratio and features you would expect from a more expensive unit.

Our team consistently does research about various types of cameras, and if you are enthusiastic about them, we suggest you check out our article about doorbell cameras and how they actually work.