The very best camcorders are definitely capable of competing with mirrorless cameras, but they offer the added convenience of having a lens already built in and, in most cases, superior audio recording capabilities.
People are becoming more aware that having a device that is designed solely for shooting video can often mean that when selecting the best camera for video, a camcorder is a much better choice than a camera phone that can do a variety of different things with its camera. This is because 4K cameras are now available at every price point.
On the market nowadays, you may choose from a variety of camcorder styles. Smaller, more affordable all-in-one camcorders for casual and amateur use are what normally come to mind. However, there is a rising market for professional broadcasting as well, as the latest Canon XF605 has shown.
If you’re in the market for a camcorder, you have a lot of options to think about because the market includes everything from affordable consumer camcorders to high-end professional camcorders that are used for creating documentaries or working in television broadcast journalism.
We have compiled a list of what we believe to be the top camcorders currently on the market, and we hope that you find it helpful. There ought to be a camcorder that is suitable for both your needs and your budget, ranging from compact and self-contained models that are ideal for shooting on vacations and in a more casual setting on a day-to-day basis to the most recent and cutting-edge 4K models that generate an eye-popping video of the highest possible quality.
10 Best Camcorders
1. Canon Vixia HF R800
- Max recording resolution: 1,920 x 1,080px
- Image sensor: CMOS
- Total pixels: 2.7MP
- Dimensions: 53(w) x 58(h) x 116(d)mm
- Weight: 305g
The Canon Vixia HF R800 is a compact and portable camera that puts emphasis on quality time spent together as a family. It has a massive 57x advanced zoom, a DIGIC DV4 image processor, and an Intelligent Image Stabilizer with Framing aid, and it records at a resolution of 1080p to SD cards. Additionally, it has framing assistance. There is even a respectable collection of filters, which includes a variety of cinematic looks. Both the acquisition price and the ongoing use of this product are very reasonable.
2. Sony HDR-CX405 camcorder
- Max recording resolution: 1,920 x 1,080px
- Image sensor: Exmor R CMOS
- Total pixels: 9.2MP
- Dimensions: 54(w) x 59.5(h) x 128(d)mm
- Weight: 190g
It is not necessary to pay a lot of money in order to make good videos; Sony’s HDR-CX405 can be purchased for significantly less than $300, and it comes with a variety of advanced features that will assist you in producing films of extremely high quality.
The camcorder is capable of recording in three different formats at once, including XAVC S, AVCHD, and the file-sharing-friendly MP4 format. You can edit in-camera using the onboard Highlight Movie Maker, and you can even apply a variety of visual effects without having to faff around with separate editing tools, which is a huge plus for those who are looking for a straightforward solution.
There has a Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar optical zoom of 30 times, and it has a remarkable wide-angle setting of 26.8 millimeters. Even 5.1 audio capture is available on the camcorder. This is one of the best camcorders for filmmakers working with a limited budget since, given the specifications, it would be difficult to justify spending any more money.
3. Sony FDR-AX43
- Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 pixels
- Image sensor: Exmor R CMOS sensor
- Total pixels: 8.29MP
- Dimensions: 173 x 80.5 x 73mm
- Weight: 625g
The FDR-AX43 may be small, but despite its portability, it does not scrimp on any of its functions. In front of the camera is a Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T lens, which features a 20x optical zoom, 4K shooting (with super-downsampling for 1080p displays), a low noise Exmor R CMOS sensor, and dual-video recording in XAVC S or AVCHD codecs, in addition to an MP4 format that is simple to share.
There is also a multichannel 5.1 microphone available for users who want to view their videos on a home theatre system or soundbar with a surround sound experience that is comparable to being there in person. However, you should expect some limitations when shooting in low light; however, if you are looking for a camcorder that is simple to operate and can record 4K video, then this model is a fantastic choice. Because it strikes the perfect balance between usability, portability, and cost, it earns the position of number one on our list.
Despite the fact that it appears to have been taken off the market at this point, you can still get it from a number of different camera stores.
4. Canon XC15
- Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 pixels
- Image sensor: 1″ CMOS sensor
- Total pixels: 13.36MP
- Dimensions: 125 x 102 x 122mm
- Weight: 1040g
The Canon XC15 is an improved successor to the XC10 that was designed to be more suitable for professional usage. It features a more comprehensive audio and video capture workflow while maintaining the same compact and ergonomic form factor. There is a 1 on it “12-megapixel CMOS sensor with the ability to record at up to 29.97 frames per second in UHD 4K resolution and up to 59.94 frames per second in 1080p. It sports an inbuilt zoom lens with a focal length range of 8.9 to 89 mm and an aperture of 2.8 to 5.6. In video mode, the lens offers a focal length range of 27.3 to 273 millimeters, which is equivalent to 35mm. The lens has a distinct focus and zoom rings, as well as separate settings for auto and manual focusing.
Both CFast and SD cards can be used with the XC15 camera. It can record 4K video to CFast cards in an MXF wrapper at up to 305 Mb/s using a codec that is based on H.264 and has an IntraFrame, 4:2:2, 8-bit format. An H.264-based, Long-GOP, 4:2:2, 8-bit codec and an MXF wrapper are utilized for the recording of 1080p video on SD cards at transfer rates of up to 50 Mb/s.
The MA-400 microphone adapter, which may be connected to an XLR audio input, is included with the XC15 as standard equipment. The MA-400 was first developed for the C300 Mk II and is aimed at single-user applications like news gathering. It was originally built for the C300 Mk II. In addition, it features a shoe-mounting option from two distinct places as well as an external mic holder.
5. Sony FDR-AX700
$922.14
Save: 977.85
- Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160px
- Image sensor: 1.0-type Exmor RS CMOS sensor
- Total pixels: 14.2MP
- Dimensions: 169(w) x 89.5(h) x 196.5(d)mm
- Weight: 600g
The Sony FDR-AX700 is equipped with a one-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor that is capable of recording 4K video in both standard dynamic range (SDR) and high dynamic range (HLG) HDR. There has a 12x zoom, a large viewfinder that measures 3.5 inches, two ports for SD cards, and a sophisticated phase detection autofocus system.
The FDR-AX700 records in 4K and HD using XAVC S at recording speeds of up to 100 Mbps for 4K recording and up to 50 Mbps for 1080p HD recording respectively. Additionally, it can record slow motion in Full HD 1080p at a frame rate of 120 frames per second. The FDR-AX700 is one of the best camcorders for passionate videographers and even aspiring filmmakers thanks to the brand’s BIONZ X image engine, which ensures that images are clear at all times. Recordings have the capability of incorporating a standard SMPTE timecode.
6. Canon Vixia HF G60
- Max recording resolution: 4K
- Image sensor: CMOS 21.1MP
- Total pixels: 8.2MP
- Dimensions: 114 x 84 x 231 mm
- Weight: 953g
Canon’s most recent 4K model, the Vixia HF G60, is aimed at photography hobbyists who take their work seriously as well as semi-professionals. This model is the only one that shoots in 4K, but it has a large 1-inch sensor and a nine-blade diaphragm, so the footage you record with it will have a more cinematic look than it would with a smaller camera. Because of its straightforward design, this camcorder is an excellent choice for anyone who has experience with more fundamental models of the device.
The Vixia HF G60 features a 15x optical zoom lens with five-axis picture stabilization, a touchscreen display that flips out to a size of 3 inches, and an eye-level viewfinder that can be tilted. There are two slots for SD cards, which is another practical aspect of this device.
7. Canon XC10
- Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 pixels
- Image sensor: 1″ CMOS sensor
- Total pixels: 13.36MP
- Dimensions: 125 x 102 x 122mm
- Weight: 1040g
The XC10 4K is able to record professional Ultra HD 4K video and comes in packaging that is ergonomically designed for optimal handheld operation and mobility. It also has the capability of capturing 4K video. In addition to the camera’s 1-megapixel sensor, it also has a 10x SLR-style manual zoom lens with an f/2.8-5.6 aperture that is capable of both auto and manual focusing “CMOS sensor with a DIGIC DV 5 image processor for processing the images. It has a total resolution of 4224 by 3164 and is capable of recording video at up to 3840 by 2160 and taking photographs in 4:3 format at up to 12 megapixels (4000 x 3000).
In video mode, the adaptable 8.9 to 89mm lens produces a 35mm equivalent focal length of 27.3 to 273mm, while in 4:3 photo mode, it produces a focal length range of 24.1 to 241mm. Video is recorded using the H.264 compression standard and then packaged in the MXF wrapper, which is widely accepted. Recording in 1080i or p can be done at bit rates of 35 or 50 Mb/s, and recording in UHD 4K can be done at bit rates of 205 or 305 Mb/s (depending on the frame rate).
8. Panasonic HC-X2000
- Max recording resolution: 3840 x 2160px
- Image sensor: 1/2.5-type MOS Sensor
- Total pixels: 8.29MP
- Dimensions: 129 x 159 x 257mm (5.08 x 6.26 x 10.1in)
- Weight: 1.5kg / 3.31 lb (with battery and handle)
This Panasonic HC-X2000 is the best run-and-gun camcorder on our list, and it’s the one you should get if you want to film like a pro. It is meant for event videographers and enthusiasts and is capable of recording in 2160p at 60 frames per second.
It is much lighter than its predecessor, the HC-X1000, and if you need to travel light, you can remove the handle with its built-in LED light and mic holder. Despite its weight of 1.5 kilograms, it is not a casual alternative. However, it is far lighter than its predecessor. It includes a wide color touchscreen that measures 3.5 inches and comes equipped with two XLR professional microphone connections, making it suitable for professional audio applications. Additionally, it has two SD card slots. Not only is it capable of shooting at a resolution of 3,840 by 2,160 at up to 60 frames per second, but it can also film slow motion at 120 frames per second in Full HD 1080p.
9. Sony HXR-NX80
$1,899.99
Save: 398.01
- Max recording resolution: 4K
- Image sensor: 1″ CMOS
- Total pixels: 21.MP
- Dimensions: 260 x 245 x 151 mm
- Weight: 2168g
This is a professional 4k camera that you can take with you wherever you go, and it is capable of recording 4K HDR footage that is both gorgeous and incredibly detailed. A phase-detection autofocus (AF) system and high dynamic range (HDR) capabilities are packed into the body of this palm-style camera which is quite small.
The HXR-NX80 camcorder is equipped with a stacked 1″ Exmor RS CMOS sensor that has a resolution of 14.2 megapixels, an 18x Zeiss optical zoom in 4k or 24x in 1080p, an OLED viewfinder, and a 3.5″ touchscreen LCD monitor. It is appropriate for use in corporate events, broadcast news, and television production.
This camcorder is capable of recording in 4K using the XAVC S 4K codec, and it also features the S-Log3/S-Gamut3 modes, which provide extra image customization. The fact that this professional camera has additional capabilities such as a built-in 2.4 GHz for different streaming possibilities via RTMP/RTMPS protocols makes it the greatest camcorder on the market for a wide variety of uses.
10. Canon XA40
$1,249.82
Save: 349.18
- Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160px
- Image sensor: 1/2.3″ type CMOS Sensor
- Total pixels: 8.29MP
- Dimensions: 182.9 x 109.2 x 83.8 mm
- Weight: 726g
The remarkable Canon XA40 is a professional-grade camcorder that not only creates breathtaking 4K film but also makes use of oversampling to ensure that the quality of its Full HD footage is unrivaled. Its palm-sized construction makes it simple to pack up and carry it with you wherever you want it to go, while the 20x zoom lens provides you with true shooting versatility in a number of different circumstances.
Another advantage of this camera is that it has optical image stabilization on all five axes, which makes it much simpler to take handheld photographs that appear like they were taken by a professional. This is a camera that can be used in any environment and at any time of year.
11. JVC GY-HM170UA 4K CAM
- Max recording resolution: 3840 x 2160px
- Image sensor: 1/2.5-type CMOS Sensor
- Total pixels: 9.03MP
- Dimensions: 152 x 111 x 256mm
- Weight: 2635g
This JVC professional camcorder is designed to match the requirement for professional functionality and comes equipped with the ability to record in Ultra HD. In a form factor that is more comparable to that of a consumer camcorder, it provides ND filters, buttons that can be assigned to certain functions, professional audio inputs, and manual gain control.
The camera is capable of recording at a resolution of up to 3840 by 2180 pixels in UHD 4K at either 24 or 30 frames per second at a bit rate of up to 150 Mb/s while encoding the clip with an H.264 codec that is wrapped in a MOV container. The camera is equipped with two card slots for SDHC and SDXC storage, allowing it to perform a dual, backup, and continuous recording. In addition to this, it is capable of recording in 1080p at up to 60 frames per second in either an 8-bit 4:2:2 50 Mb/s.MOV file or in AVCHD for interoperability with consumer editing tools.
