The most capable 4K cameras are able to record high-quality motion pictures in a variety of settings. These cameras will assist you in capturing results that will wow your audience, whether you are making a full-length feature film or providing video content for social media platforms. The leading models also provide a variety of filming and editing capabilities, which you can use to express your individual flair. The question now is, which 4K cameras are the best for your project?
In order to determine the answer, we put the most recent 4K cameras, including several that are also considered to be among the best cameras currently available, through a series of rigorous tests. Our knowledgeable reviewers have logged hundreds of hours of combined experience using these products. In order to evaluate the functionality and longevity of each camera, they are put through their paces in a variety of real-world scenarios. Our testers will also record sample footage using a variety of settings and shooting setups in order to evaluate the overall performance of the device in its entirety, including everything from frame rates to stabilization.
The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is, in our opinion, the best 4K camera available on the market right now. It is a 5.7K powerhouse that outperforms the Sony A7S III whilst being manageable in the hand and loaded with an array of video settings. Having said that, it seems as though you are operating with a reduced production budget. In that case, we wholeheartedly suggest going with the Sony ZV-E10. It’s a great video hybrid for 4K vloggers, and it’s also quite portable and lightweight.
You’ll find the solution that’s ideal for you in our guide, whether you’re looking for a lightweight mirrorless camera that’s suitable for professional filming or a compact tool for taking photos. We went over the best 4K cameras available in a variety of pricing points and went into detail about what makes each alternative unique. In the event that you have not yet determined which type of camera would provide you with the most satisfactory results based on your needs, we have outlined some helpful purchasing advice further down.
Following your selection of the best 4K camera for your needs, you will see a list of the day’s most attractive sales displayed below each product. The best deal that’s currently available will be displayed on our widget that compares prices.
10 Best 4K Cameras
1. Panasonic Lumix GH6
Are you looking for a 4K camera that doesn’t weigh much yet has a lot of filming potential? First and foremost, the Panasonic Lumix GH6 is a Micro Four Thirds flagship camera designed with filmmakers in mind. The GH6 has excellent handling and a control arrangement that was thoughtfully designed, and as a result, we believe that it is more controllable in the hand than a full-frame heavyweight. According to our observations, its front and rear recording buttons, tally lights, and multi-angle touchscreen all contributed to the ease with which we were able to frame our shots and take them.
The Panasonic GH6 is a video powerhouse, despite the fact that its dimensions are on the smaller side. In addition to having built-in color profiles, it offers a wide variety of 10-bit ProRes video types and anamorphic video modes. It is able to record video in 5.7K resolution at 60 frames per second and has 7.5 stops of in-body image stabilization. To put it succinctly, it’s a monster from a movie. Despite this, we did not have any overheating problems while testing. Even though its smaller sensor may have an impact on its performance in low light, we were able to record some nice photos in the twilight.
We believe that its autofocus technology and sensor with 25.2 megapixels were created specifically with video in mind. Contrast-based autofocus of the GH6 was found to be stable despite competition from other companies that provide faster systems. However, if you need the fastest AF, other brands offer speedier systems. All of this can be carried in a bag that is less than one kilogram in weight and is the size of a standard camera pouch.
2. Sony ZV-E10
The ZV-E10 is clearly designed with video in mind due to the extensive variety of file types that it supports. It is possible to record in 4K at a competitive 30 frames per second, but unfortunately, there is no option to record in 4K at 60 frames per second. The footage is captured using 6K oversampling, which makes the most of the pixel count to deliver results that are extremely detailed. During our tests, the electronic stabilization provided by SteadyShot did a good job of compensating for hand-shake, and the object-tracking autofocus latched on consistently, even when the subject was moving across the frame.
The ability to handle noise is inferior to that of full-frame competitors, but panning produces a rolling shutter effect, which is the real show-stopper. Run-and-gun filmmakers are unable to make significant use of it as a result of this limitation. If, on the other hand, you are content to take handheld selfie vlogs or make use of a tripod, the ZV-E10 is an excellent choice because it is accompanied by a catalog of tiny lenses.
3. Sony A7S III
There is a plethora of other highlights available here in addition to the spectacular output, which includes filming at up to 120 frames per second for extremely smooth recording. An astonishingly high-resolution viewfinder, a completely articulating screen with an upgraded touch interface, and the ability to take 16-bit raw through HDMI are some of the features included in this camera. In addition, this camera has a full-sized HDMI connection.
Other connections, such as a headphone and microphone connector, as well as compatibility with the XLR-K3M hot-shoe device from Sony, will also be available to videographers. This will allow for a maximum of four audio inputs.
There is no denying the fact that this is an expensive camera; but, if you are looking for something that performs the tasks required of it very effectively, we do not believe that a better option exists than this one.
4. Sony A7 IV
During our tests, the touchscreen’s ability to tilt felt like an advantage while I was filming by myself, and the dedicated record button proved to be an effective shortcut. Although it is not a suitable substitute for a gimbal, in-body image stabilization can be of assistance when vlogging handheld. In addition, testing demonstrated that its autofocus is ahead of the field and locks onto subjects like glue.
The A7 IV achieves crisp, noise-free images even when shooting at higher ISOs because it oversamples the sensor’s native 7K resolution to produce 4K/30p footage. The 10-bit 4:2:2 option provides color graders with additional versatility as well. A crop is applied to 4K/60p video, and panning might cause the rolling shutter to distort the verticals of the image. However, if you are looking for a camera that is capable of shooting both still images and videos convincingly, the A7 IV is a genuine all-rounder.
5. Panasonic Lumix S5
$1,597.99
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The Samsung Galaxy S5 is an excellent device for videography because of its completely articulating touchscreen, which also makes the device a pleasure to hold and control. The 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor has the same capability, and it can record cropped 4K footage at 60 frames per second or uncropped 4K film at 30 frames per second. Internally, it is also capable of recording in 10-bit 4K. (though with a maximum clip length of 30 minutes).
The video quality is superb, as one would expect from Panasonic; there is a great deal of detail, and in-body image stabilization ensures that everything remains smooth. Even though it’s not the most cutting-edge technology, contrast-based autofocus is fully capable of tracking moving subjects throughout the frame.
When other features such as V-Log, time-lapses, dual native ISO, and anamorphic 4K are included, the S5 becomes an excellent alternative for filmmakers working in 4K. Although the usage of a second battery for all-day shooting sessions is highly recommended, the only major sacrifice that needs to be made is switching from a full-size HDMI cable to a micro HDMI cable. Which, considering that it already has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth built-in, isn’t really much of a sacrifice at all.
6. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro
Because it has the same 6K sensor as its predecessor, it is still capable of recording outstanding 6K video at up to 50 frames per second. The Super 35 size is smaller than the full frame format, yet it is still large enough to handle low-light scenarios with ease. Additionally, built-in ND filters allow you to film in brilliant sunlight with wide-open apertures without worrying about overexposure. In addition, the 6K Pro is an extremely adaptable camera for editors because it offers a wide variety of formats, profiles, and resolutions to choose from.
Having said that, it is quite evident that this camera is not intended for use by casual people. Although its controls may be easy to operate, it does not have image stabilization or tracking autofocus, and its stills performance is rather basic. But as a first professional video camera, the 6K Pro is a terrific bundle for the price, with superb image quality and relative accessibility, making it one of the most rounded enthusiast options available. Its price tag is also very reasonable.
7. Panasonic Lumix GH5 Mark II
$1,297.99
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The GH5 is capable of shooting excellent 4K footage when it is not being used for streaming. The Micro Four Thirds sensor remains the same as before, but videographers gain a few new frame rates and resolutions, including anamorphic 6K and 4:2:0 10-bit C4K. In addition to that, there is a setting called Variable Frame Rate that allows for output in both rapid and slow motion (up to 180fps). The smaller sensor results in slightly worse performance in low light, but the five-axis image stabilization built into the body of the camera allows you to shoot handheld without as much shaking. When a touchscreen that can be completely articulated is added to the equation, the Panasonic GH5 Mark II emerges as a formidable contender for recording a wide variety of 4K material.
8. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K
It is distinguished from other Micro Four Thirds shooters in terms of its video-oriented operational capabilities by virtue of its enormous 5.0-inch touchscreen and its use of a sensor and lens attachment based on the Micro Four Thirds standard. The variety of onboard connections is also the best in its class, and the presence of a dual card slot gives it an advantage over much more expensive cameras such as the Canon EOS R.
That is not to mention the great onboard audio recording capabilities, and of course, the sweetener in the form of a license for DaVinci Resolve Studio, which is worth a total of $299, making it a gift that keeps on giving.
Lastly, and most importantly, the fundamental quality of its 4K video competes with that of much more expensive cameras. Additionally, thanks to its dual native ISOs, it handles noise better than some full frame sensors when you know how to work it, and this is possible because of how well it competes with other cameras.
9. Panasonic Lumix S1H
$3,497.99
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Video quality is almost ideal in all conditions thanks to Dual Native ISO’s superb noise performance, which is also excellent. Every resolution is accessible with 10-bit color, which provides a great deal of editing versatility. The possible resolutions range from 6K/24p to 4K/60p.
Anamorphic lenses can also be used if the user so chooses, and the camera is capable of recording in Cinelike Gamma, V-Log/V-Gamut, and HDR in HLG, with color profiles that can be adjusted in-camera. The S1H is incredibly user-friendly thanks to a revamped interface, which is assisted by a rear display that can be flipped out. This is despite the fact that there is a wide variety of options available, including a variety of monitoring and display options.
It is large and hefty for a full-frame mirrorless camera, but that is mainly because it contains a silent fan and a cooling vent, both of which erase recording duration constraints. This means that you can film immaculate footage until the battery dies or the storage space is exhausted.
10. Nikon Z6 II
An upgrade to the device’s software has made it possible to record in 4K at 60 frames per second (albeit the image will be cropped by a factor of 1.5). Additionally, a 10-bit HLG HDR output option and 120 frames per second slow-mo in Full HD has been added. The Z6 II is a very powerful kit, especially if you want a versatile camera that can shoot good stills when it is not recording 4K content. A fully articulating display would be better for framing than the tilting touchscreen.
11. Fujifilm X-T4
$1,176.82
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The most significant improvement results from the incorporation of image stabilization within the body of the device (IBIS). This results in it being a touch larger and heavier than the X-T3, but it is still a significant amount lighter than a DSLR designed for enthusiasts. Although it does not eliminate the requirement for a gimbal entirely, it does imply that it is an excellent choice for the filmmaker who is constantly on the move.
When you combine this with the previous model’s 26.1-megapixel back-illuminated APS-C sensor, you end up with a camera that is an absolute powerhouse for both still and moving images. The latter is particularly noteworthy due to the incorporation of a very contemporary movie shooting specification, which includes the ability to record Cinema 4K movies at up to 60 frames per second, 10-bit internal recording, and up to 400Mbps bit-rate, along with F-Log and HLG profiles as standard features.
You can also capture slow-motion videos in Full HD at up to 240 frames per second, and the IBIS system can deliver up to 6.5 exposure values worth of stabilization when used in conjunction with one of Fujifilm’s stabilized lenses (18 out of its 29 X Series lenses fit this description). The Fujifilm X-T4 is, all things considered, the best APS-C mirrorless camera that money can buy, and a primary factor in this is the quality of the camera’s video recording capabilities.
