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Affordability means something different to everyone, but the best cheap cameras make top-quality recording accessible to all videographers. We’ve tested a wide range of low-cost cameras, and we believe the models in this list are the top choices for high-quality footage without breaking the bank.
Out of all the cheap video cameras we’ve reviewed in the real world, the one we’d personally buy is the Sony ZV-1. We think it’s an excellent all-in-one option for 4K video, with a generous set of video features offering better value than the ZV-1 II. But the variety in our list means there might be something else that’s a closer fit for your needs and budget.
The idea of this guide is to make it easy for you to choose a cheap video camera in 2024. Everything featured here has been tested extensively by our expert team, and we’ve distilled the outcomes to give you a clear view of the positives and negatives for each camera, together with some useful buying insights.
Best by use-case
The summary below will give you a quick overview of the best cheap video cameras you can buy in 2024. When you find one that fits your requirements, you can use the links beneath each entry to jump down to our full summaries.
The best compact
Its 4K video, compact build, flip-out screen, tally lamp and superb autofocus combine to put powerful vlogging abilities in your pocket.
Read more below
The best for aspiring filmmakers
A feature-packed Micro Four Thirds camera with excellent video skills, its age means the GH5 now offers amazing value.
Read more below
The best stabilized
With a 1-inch sensor and a touch display that can flip video to vertical, this is an affordable content creation tool.
Read more below
The best 360
It’s the best 360-degree camera available with superb 8K footage and excellent battery life, but and also decent value.
Read more below
The best system camera
If you don’t need a touch menu and can look past rolling shutter, the ZV-E10 is a powerful little tool for vlogging on the go.
Read more below
The best action camera
If you don’t need the latest flagship GoPro features, Hero 10 Black offers the best value, with the ability to shoot 4K/120p video.
Read more below
Timothy Coleman
Tim is TechRadar’s Cameras Editor. With more than 15 years’ experience in the photo/video industry, Tim has had the opportunity to shoot with countless cameras, including many of the best cheap video cameras. As a result, he has a unique insight into what makes a great-value camera for videography. Tim notes; “You don’t need to spend a lot in 2024 to get pro quality video, though you do need to work smart to get the best results with the budget-friendly cameras included below. Every option included here has one up on your smartphone – whether that’s full waterproofing or the option to swap lenses.”
The best cheap video cameras for 2024
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Write-ups for each of the best cheap video cameras in our list can be found below. Each model has been thoroughly tested and we’re picky over which cameras come recommend.
The best cheap vlogging compact camera
Buy it if:
✅ You want a powerful vlogging compact: With top specs in a tidy body, the ZV-1 is an excellent tool for shooting vlogs and YouTube videos.
✅ You want excellent autofocus: Sony’s Real-time tracking and Real-time Eye AF systems are the class of the field for keeping subjects sharp.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You need an all-weather camera: One feature missing from the ZV-1’s spec sheet is weatherproofing, so it needs to be treated with care.
❌ You want the smoothest possible footage: Active SteadyShot stabilization does a good job, but can’t match the DJI Osmo Pocket 3.
The ZV-1 is a pocket-sized point-and-shoot with powerful video capabilities. In testing, we found that its 1-inch sensor and bright f/1.8-2.8 lens can capture sharp 4K video with smooth background bokeh, even if frame rates top out at 30fps. We noted positively its support for color profiles like S-Log2 and S-Log3, while a built-in ND filter makes it easier to capture better quality footage in bright sunlight. We also found Sony’s class-leading autofocus tech did a great job of keeping human subjects in constant sharp focus.
It has built-in image stabilization too, but be warned: we found that the system applies a sizeable crop to the image frame when at its most effective, which means shooting yourself while holding it requires you to keep your arm fully stretched. Still, we think it’s a very solid package for vlogging, particularly as it includes an articulated screen and three-capsule microphone, despite its compact size. We’d pick this over the pricier ZV-1 II, which simply doesn’t do enough to improve on the Z-V1.
Read our in-depth Sony ZV-1 review
The best cheap video camera for aspiring filmmakers
Buy it if:
✅ You want a high-spec video camera: It might not be brand-new, but the Lumix GH5 still has a comprehensive spec sheet for video.
✅ You value good handling: A big touchscreen, direct access controls and an ergonomic design make this a lovely camera to shoot with.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want the latest autofocus: Contrast-detection autofocus is fine, but newer phase detect systems perform better overall.
❌ You want a bargain camera: At its current price, the GH5 is fantastic value, but it’s not objectively the cheapest option out there.
Released as the company’s flagship video-centric mirrorless camera back in 2017, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 remains a powerful tool for serious filmmakers. It has been superseded by more recent and higher spec models: the GH5 Mark II, GH6 and more recently the GH7. However, you can still buy it new and, because of its age, it represents even better value. Our review found that it can record beautiful Cinema 4K footage at 60fps with a bitrate of 150Mbps, and supports 10-bit color depth and 4:2:2 subsampling. It can also output Apple ProRes to an external recorder via its HDMI port, and (when equipped with an optional adapter) can record sound through high-end XLR microphones.
In testing, we found that its contrast-based autofocus system generally works well, although it does feel a little hesitant compared to more advanced hybrid systems, including the phase detection system used by the GH7. We think it’s still a great camera to use though, with good handling and controls, a sizeable 3.2-inch flip-out touchscreen which is useful for shooting from tricky angles and weather-sealing for fuss-free outdoor operation. You can pick up the GH5 for less a three-digit sum new and for around half the price when buying from a trusted second-hand retailer.
Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix GH5
The best stabilized pocket camera
Buy it if:
✅ You want a content creation tool: Portrait recording at 3K resolution makes this a camera purpose-built for social media video.
✅ You want smooth, easy video: True to its name, the Pocket 3 is a pocket-friendly solution for shooting steady vlogs wherever you go.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You shoot a lot of photos, too: Low-light image quality is better than it was with the Pocket 2, but stills resolution is much lower.
❌ You’re happy with your smartphone: If you prefer filming with your smartphone, a gimbal mount like the DJI OM 5 makes more sense.
We rate the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 as the best vlogging camera. Equipped with a 1-inch sensor and neat 2-inch rear LCD that rotates between horizontal and vertical, it’s a powerful and pocketable tool. That rotating screen makes it easy to switch aspect ratios for social. You also get DJI’s famed 3-axis gimbal-mounted camera which produces silky smooth on-the-go video, all in a super-tiny pocket-friendly device. If you’re after pro audio, we recommend adding the DJI Mic 2 kit which instantly pairs with the Pocket 3 for fuss-free wireless pro audio.
It’s not a perfect camera. In testing, we found that it can get hot when shooting long videos. It’s also not the most rugged camera in this list, and it’s certainly not waterproof. But trust us: the Pocket 3 can shoot better video than your phone and is more convenient than many of the alternatives in this list, especially for vlogging. In addition to the advantages mentioned above, you can also shoot lovely looking slow motions videos with support up to 4K 120fps. Top stuff.
Read our in-depth DJI Pocket 3 review
The best value 360 degree camera
Buy it if:
✅ You want to shoot 360-degree video: With two lenses, the X4 lets you shoot unique footage in full 360 degrees and frame it later.
✅ You want a very versatile camera: A full feature set, single-camera 4K mode and waterproofing make this a talented tool.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You don’t plan to shoot in 360: If you only need to shoot standard video, you can save money by going for a different camera.
❌ Your workflow can’t handle large files: 360-degree video in 8K takes up a lot of storage space and processing power.
The Insta360 X4 recently took top place in our best 360-degree cameras guide. It upgrades the Insta360 X3 with higher-resolution 8K 360-degree video, plus it has some superb single camera modes with up to 4K 60p and shoot-first-frame-later FreeFrame mode. Combine its single camera chops with waterproofing up to 10m and you effectively have a solid action camera on your hands. Insta360 has improved the in-camera mics for more immersive sound, plus you can pair the device to external mics via Bluetooth. What sets it apart is the 360-degree video functionality, which captures footage you simply can’t get from a smartphone.
In our review, we commented positively on its larger 2.5-inch touchscreen, which offers user-friendly control, plus significantly longer battery life – up to 135-minutes from a full charge. We also found the lens design better: you can now attach and remove the lens protectors which are necessary for intense outdoors action. We still get the best bits from before too: superb FlowState image stabilization and Horizon Lock plus Active HDR which retains stunning detail in high-contrast light. All in all, a superb multi-function camera that can make videos with a difference.
Read our in-depth Insta360 X4 review
The best compact vlogging camera system
Buy it if:
✅ You want a compact vlogging camera: Lightweight and tidily packaged with an articulating screen, this is a travel-friendly vlogging camera.
✅ You like to swap lenses: Part of Sony’s E-mount system, the ZV-E10 works with a wide range of glass, giving extra versatility.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You shoot run-and-gun video: Rolling shutter and no in-body image stabilization mean the ZV-E10 isn’t the best for handheld video.
❌ You’d like a viewfinder: The ZV-E10 keeps its dimensions down by ditching a viewfinder, which won’t suit everyone.
The Sony ZV-E10 is a mid-range mirrorless vlogging camera that delivers a lot for its price. It’s compact in size and lightweight in build, with a sideways-flipping articulated touchscreen, impressive wide-grilled built-in microphone, and jacks for hooking up an external mic and headphones. We highly rate its fast, accurate autofocus, which can be set to detect and track eyes and faces in real-time. It can also record video in picture profiles like S-Log 2, S-Log 3 and HLG, which videographers who like to color correct and grade their own footage will appreciate.
It’s not without some issues, though. In testing, we found it susceptible to rolling shutter during quick pans, and we also noted that lack of in-body image stabilization, which reduces its appeal as a run-and-gun video camera. 4K recording is limited to 30fps (you can record at 60 and 100fps, plus 120fps for slow motion, but you’ll need to use a lower 1080p resolution), while the lack of a viewfinder also limits its stills usability somewhat. All the same, the availability of superb Sony E-mount lenses means it remains a versatile, compact option for smartphone-beating video.
Read our in-depth Sony ZV-E10 review
The best value GoPro
Buy it if:
✅ You want a versatile, value action camera: A former flagship from a few years ago, the Hero 10 Black still has plenty going for it.
✅ You don’t need flagship features: The Hero 12 Black is sharper and smarter, but the Hero 10 Black still shoots quality 4K video.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You want the most cinematic video: Newer models offer 10-bit video and color profiles that give more cinematic visuals.
❌ You want to spend the least you can: There are cheaper action cameras out there, if you’re happy to lose the GoPro name.
The latest GoPro is the Hero 12 Black, which makes the Hero 10 Black two-generations old. However, we think it remains an excellent choice if you want a good-value GoPro that has the skills to capture smooth, sharp 4K footage. In testing, we found the quality of 4K/120p video genuinely impressive, while its responsive touchscreen makes it a better choice than the GoPro Hero 9 Black. We found it more versatile and fun to use than its predecessor. With GoPro’s effective HyperSmooth stabilization available across most shooting modes, it’s also an ideal tool for recording 4K handheld vlogs, while its waterproof build makes it more durable than your smartphone.
The GoPro Hero 12 Black offers a higher resolution 5.7K multi-aspect 4:3 sensor with greater editing flexibility, while the marginally pricier DJI Osmo Action 4 probably represents better value overall. But if you want a GoPro action camera for less than flagship money, we think the Hero 10 Black is a great choice. It’s easily the best-value GoPro you can buy in 2024.
Read our in-depth GoPro Hero 10 Black review
How to choose the best cheap video camera for you
How to choose the best cheap video camera in 2024
There are a number of important factors to consider when choosing a video camera, with perhaps the most obviously important being the image quality.
Resolution
You should first consider the resolution(s) offered by any potential camera, as well as the frame rate(s) on offer. Resolution gives an indication of the level of detail that’ll be visible in your movies (4K is more detailed than 1080p, which is more detailed than in 720p, and so on).
Frame rate
Frame rate determines how smoothly video plays. Recording at a high frame rate also gives you the option of slowing the video down to create smoother, non-choppy slow motion, either in-camera or in an editing app in post-production. Standard video frame rates are 24, 25 and 30fps. A frame rate of 60fps is able to slow down to half speed, while 120fps is a quarter speed and so on.
Image quality
You should note that resolution isn’t the only criterion that affects detail, however: 1080p footage with strong contrast, high dynamic range and low noise can appear a lot more detailed than noisy, flat-looking 4K footage – which is why other aspects like sensor size and the lens being used are also important things to consider.
Autofocus
Autofocus is also important. While all the cameras here have it, some implement it better than others, and if you’re vlogging you’ll almost certainly want a camera with face and/or eye detection and, if possible, real-time face/eye tracking to ensure you’re always in sharp focus even if you move within the frame. Right now, Sony offers the best video autofocus systems in more affordable cameras.
Image stabilization
Image stabilization, meanwhile, can make handheld videos much steadier and less nausea-inducing, and things like long battery life, storage speed/capacity, handling and waterproofing can also be important depending on your particular requirements. DJI and Insta360 stand out here.
How we test cheap video cameras
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If you’ve decided you want smartphone-beating video quality in an affordable alternative, there are some key factors to look out for: outright video quality, autofocus accuracy, enhanced image stabilization and decent audio options both in-camera and compatibility with external mics. These are the core areas that we focus on in our real-world tests.
When reviewing any video camera, not just cheap ones, we make sure to record at the camera’s highest available resolution and frame-rate in a range real scenarios, whether that’s low light or out and about during the day in a busy city.
We shoot ‘run-and-gun’ clips to test a camera’s stabilization and for any adverse impact any rolling shutter brings. We record audio in quiet and noisy environments using the in-camera mics and check how easy it is to connect to external mics: wired or wireless.
Most cameras in this guide offer enhanced autofocus features, including Face and Eye tracking or subject detection autofocus. We check the accuracy of these systems.
We also shoot in both day and night to check image quality and how well the auto-exposure adapts to lighting changes. Usually features such as flat color profiles that require grading are for pro cameras only – though you get this with the Lumix GH5. For most of the other cameras you select which color profile you like and so we check how good these profiles look.
We test all of the functions offered by a video camera to see how they match up to their closest competitors, then draw informed conclusions based on our overall impression of the camera’s construction, design, features and the quality of its output.
