Are you looking for the best HD video camera? In this article, we’ve put together a list of our favorite HD video cameras.
Choosing an HD video camera can be overwhelming. We’ve all been there: you’re standing in front of the wall of cameras at Best Buy, and you have no idea what to choose.
Why are HD video cameras important? If you’re a videographer, then the answer should be obvious.
With the rise of YouTube and other online video-sharing sites, people are now able to share their lives with others in a way that was not possible before.
The HD video camera is an essential part of any videographer’s arsenal for capturing high-quality footage.
There are so many HD video cameras to choose from that it can be hard to know which one is best. But with a little bit of research and comparison, you’ll find the perfect camera for your needs.
To help you narrow down which one is the best HD video camera for you, we have compiled this list of our favorites.
Best HD Video Cameras
Let’s start this list of the best HD video cameras with a really popular option.
1. Sony FDR-AX43
The Sony FDR-AX43 is a compact camcorder that shoots 4K video. It’s easy to use, and the battery lasts for three hours of continuous recording.
Sony is known for its digital cameras and camcorders and is a long-established audio-visual company based in Japan.
It may be more expensive than your run-of-the-mill 1080p camera but it’s not as heavy on the wallet as some of its competitors, like the Sony FDR-X3000R or Panasonic HC900.
This camera has been designed with many features that help you to capture and edit videos in your own style, which makes it perfect for anyone from amateurs to professionals.
The FDR-AX43 is an affordable 4K video camera that captures stunning footage in the highest resolution possible. It’s also compact and lightweight, making it easy to take anywhere you might need a high-quality camera.
The AX43 features two XLR inputs for recording audio with professional microphones and has built-in stereo mics as well.
This HD video camera is a great option for both beginners and more experienced users alike.
- 4K1 16: 9 video optimized 1/2. 5” Exmor R low-light CMOS Sensor
- Built-in gimbal - Balanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilizer
- 20x optical zoom and Clear Image Zoom of 30x for 4K1 / 40x for HD2
- Fast Intelligent AF tracks focus to captures decisive moments
- 26. 8mm2 wide-angle ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T zoom lens
2. Sony FDR-AX700
The Sony FDR-AX700 is a professional camcorder that offers an HD video camera experience like no other. It has an excellent set of features and performance that will make your videos come to life.
The camera can shoot 4K video at 60 frames per second, which is perfect for capturing fast action shots such as sports or wildlife footage.
Sony is one of the most iconic brands in consumer electronics. They have been around for over a century and are known for their high-quality products, like televisions, cameras, audio systems, video games consoles, and more.
The Sony FDR-AX700 is a great option if you’re looking to shoot awesome vacation footage, or even more professional video.
It can even be used underwater! The AX700 offers several different shooting modes including manual controls and slow-motion settings.
This camera is certainly worth consideration!
- 1” (1.0-Type) stacked Exmor RS back Illuminated CMOS sensor
- Incredibly fast, Hybrid AF with 273 points and wide coverage
- 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) in addition to full HD. Filter Diameter: 62mm. Minimum Focus Distance-...
- Instant HDR workflow with Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) encoding
- ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 12x optical zoom Lens w/ 29mm wide angle.Power Requirements:7.4V (battery...
BEST HD VIDEO CAMERA
What Are HD Video Cameras?
HD video cameras have become hugely popular. This is because of the many technological advancements that have been made to these cameras.
People who own a HD camera can take great quality videos in 4K resolution, which means they will be able to post high-quality videos on social media sites like YouTube or Facebook.
3. JVC Everio GZ-RY980
The JVC Everio GZ-RY980 is a camcorder that records in high definition. The camera has the ability to take 14 megapixel still shots with its 3MOS sensor and features 16GB internal flash memory for recording up to 40 hours of HD video.
It also features 24x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom, autofocus system, and image stabilization so that you can capture your favorite moments without worrying about blurry video from unsteady hands or shaky shots.
If you’re looking for a high-quality HD video camera that’s easy to use, the JVC Everio GZ-RY980 is perfect for you! This camera has dual memory slots so that you can record in two different formats and then save it on your SD card or external hard drive.
It also comes with an HDMI cable that will allow you to easily connect it to your TV for viewing.
The camera has been designed to be very durable and includes features such as a watertight construction, shockproof design, dust-resistant body, and freeze proofing.
4. Canon Vixia HF R80
The Canon Vixia HF R80 is a high-definition camcorder with an integrated four-gigabyte flash memory.
It has a 16x optical zoom lens which can be used to capture detailed video footage and stills, as well as the ability to record in low light conditions with its 3-inch LCD screen.
The Vixia HF R80 is a camcorder that can capture high-definition videos in 1080p. It has a flip-out 3″ LCD screen and features a still photo mode with three different resolutions, which are 5MP, 15MP, and 30MP.
This HD video camera with a flip-out LCD screen and WiFi connectivity. It has 8GB of storage, 4x optical zoom, shoots video in 1080p HD at 60fps, and captures still images at up to 12 megapixels.
5. Sony HDR-CX405
The Sony HDR-CX405 is the perfect camera for those who want to be able to shoot high-quality video without breaking the bank.
This HD video camera includes a 10x optical zoom, as well as a 3 inch LCD screen that flips out and rotates 180 degrees, which makes it simple to get shots from any angle.
The CX405 has a built-in battery so you can take it with you anywhere without worrying about charging or carrying around extra equipment.
The Sony HDR-CX405 is one of the most popular camcorders on the market. It has a large 2.7″ LCD screen, and records in 1080p HD video – giving you crystal clear video footage for your next YouTube upload!
The camera also features optical image stabilization which allows for smooth footage even when the subject is moving quickly or shaking from windy conditions.
Sony has released a new camcorder that is perfect for people who are looking to get into video production.
This camera also features Sony’s latest Exmor R CMOS sensor with Balanced Optical SteadyShot image stabilization and Clear Image Zoom function which enables you to zoom up to 2x without any loss of quality.
- 50Mbps XAVC S1 1920x1080 at 60P, AVCHD and MP4 codecs. 30x Optical / 60x Clear Image Zoom to get...
- Automatically creates highlight video in MP4 from multiple clips. Optical SteadyShot image...
- Face Detection with voice enhancement and noise reduction. Get creative w/ 7 picture effects for...
- View on 2.7” Clear Photo Plus LCD display. Intelligent Auto (60 different scene combinations...
- This product does not have an external microphone input. USB Charging- DC 5V 800mA
6. Sony FDR-X3000
Sony’s new camera, the FDR-X3000 is a powerful little thing. It has a 30x Optical Zoom lens and a 12MP sensor that can capture up to 4K (at 3840 x 2160 resolution) video at 60 frames per second with its full HD recording capabilities.
Sony has made this camera compact enough for any adventure seeker, but still durable enough to withstand any environment you throw it in.
Sony’s FDR-X3000 is a top-of-the-line action camera with features that make it one of the best digital camcorders on the market.
It has a 16MP Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor for exceptional low light performance and 4K capture at 60fps, ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects like surfers or skiers.
The FDR-X3000 is a high-quality action camera that can shoot video at 4K resolution and record audio in uncompressed linear PCM. The Sony FDR-X3000 captures 14 megapixel still images, which are saved to an SD card.
It comes with a 16GB microSD card and has the option of up to 64GB capacity.
The Sony FDR-X3000 can easily be used for sports, news broadcasting, and other live events that require quick response times and high-quality footage.
- Ultimate image stabilization from Balanced Optical SteadyShot Professional 4K with ZEISS lens and...
- Splash-proof body or use incl. waterproof housing down to 197ft. Selectable viewing angle: Wide,...
- Interval record at 8.3MP for stills and 4K time-lapse videoHigh Quality stereo sound with wind noise...
- Intuitive interface, 3x rec. lights and adjustable beep volume;Shoot at desired angle with...
- NOTE: Refer User Manual on Technical Specification before use.Monaural Speaker
7. Canon XA40
Canon’s XA40 is a versatile camera that can be used for many different filming purposes. The XA40 has a wide range of features, such as the ability to film in 1080p full HD, take 16MP still pictures, and zoom up to 100x.
The camera also includes electronic image stabilization (EIS), so your shots will be smooth even if you’re on the move.
The Canon XA40 is a compact camera that’s made for vloggers. This isn’t your average point-and-shoot, but it can still take some beautiful shots.
The image stabilization makes for smooth video footage, which is perfect for capturing the action on the go!
The Canon XA40 is an HD video camera that incorporates many features and functionalities. The camera has the capability to record in full HD 1080p or 720p, it also offers:
- 16x zoom with optical image stabilization for video and photo shooting,
- Wi-Fi connectivity,
- an LCD touch screen display for easy navigation of menus, and
- multiple recording modes such as slow-motion video at 120 frames per second.
The Canon XA40 is a new video camera that is designed to be used in the most extreme conditions.
It has features such as being waterproof, freezeproof, shockproof, and dustproof. The XA40 can document your adventures with ease and it will perform well in any situation.
- 4K UHD 30p recording
- 20X optical zoom lens
- 3 inch LCD Touchscreen
- Dual SD card slots
- 5 axis image stabilization
8. Panasonic HC-X2000
The Panasonic HC-X2000 is a top-of-the-line camcorder that is optimized for both video and still photography. It can shoot at 4K UHD resolution, which makes it an ideal camera for those who are looking to create professional-quality content.
The HC-X2000 has also been designed with manual features so that even novices will have full control over how their footage looks.
This camcorder features an ergonomic grip and a magnesium body which makes it durable enough for the most extreme of shoots.
The camera also has dual SD card slots, one for recording and one for backup storage so you never have to worry about losing your footage or precious memories again.
The Panasonic HC-X2000 is a 4K camcorder that’s perfect for any videographer or professional looking for superior video quality for the price point.
The camera shoots in both AVCHD and MP4, which are two of the most popular formats in the world today.
Not only does it shoot with amazing video quality, but it also has an outstanding zoom range of up to 2000mm, making this one of the most versatile cameras on the market.
The camera has a 3MOS sensor, which captures images in multiple dimensions and produces less noise than other types of sensors.
Other features include two XLR inputs for professional audio recording options, 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling, and an OLED viewfinder screen for accurate viewing even in bright sunlight.
- [PRO FEATURES] WiFi live streaming, manual rings, ND filters, built-in LED video light, and 24-bit...
- [VW-HU1 HANDLE] Includes a detachable handle equipped with a 2-channel XLR Audio Input, audio...
- [4K RECORDING] 4K 60p recording in a small and light body with a heat-dispersing design
- [LEICA DICOMAR LENS] Wide-angle 25mm 24x optical zoom with 5-Axis Hybrid O. I. S (Optical Image...
- [DISPLAY / LVF] The 3. 5-inch monitor (2, 760K-dots) with electrostatic touch panel, plus up/down...
9. Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera
In the filmmaking world, cameras are often expensive. A new high-end DSLR camera can cost upwards of $3000 dollars, which is a lot for an average person to spend on a hobby.
The Pocket Cinema Camera by Blackmagic Design makes filmmaking more accessible and affordable with a very reasonable price tag.
If you’re looking for a camera that is easy to set up and use but doesn’t skimp on the quality of video or stills, then the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera is perfect for you.
The Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera is a 4K camera that shoots cinema-quality footage with a variety of different lenses. Its small size makes it easy to carry around and shoot on the go.
The Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera is a camera that was designed to give people with mobile lifestyles the ability to capture high-quality cinematic footage.
It has a sensor size of 12.4mm x 8.8mm, which allows it to have an active resolution of 1920x1080p at 16:9 as well as 1280x720p at 16:9 and 960x540p at 4:3 for more cinematic footage.
- Full-Size 4/3 Sensor/ 4096X2160 Resolution
- 4K Dki Video Recording At 60 Fps / 13 Stop Dynamic Range
- Carbon Fiber Composite Build / Black Magic Operating System
- 5" Touchscreen Lcd / 4 Built-In Microphones
Best Rugged: DJI Osmo Action Cam
The DJI Osmo Action Cam is one of the best rugged, durable cameras on the market. It’s lightweight and compact which makes it perfect for traveling, hiking, or other outdoor activities.
The camera has a tough exterior that can withstand falls from up to six feet and water resistance so you won’t have to worry about getting rained on while using this camera outside.
You’ll also love how easy this camera is to use with its intuitive touchscreen display.
This cam shoots in 4K at 30 frames per second making it great for professional filmmakers as well as amateurs who want high-quality videos without having to spend a fortune on equipment.
The DJI Osmo Action Cam is one of the best rugged cameras on the market and has even been used in some Hollywood blockbusters, too!
This camera features a 4K Ultra HD resolution that will allow you to capture every moment with crystal clear detail.
The camera also includes a 3-axis gimbal stabilizer, which makes it easy to get smooth shots even when filming while walking or running.
It has a 4K Video resolution and an automatic stabilizer so you can take it anywhere, even on rough terrain!
The device also includes a few other features like time-lapse recording, slow motion, and looping videos.
The DJI Osmo Action Cam is an awesome camera for anyone looking to get the best video footage out there, whether that be on their own YouTube channels, or shooting video for clients.
- Dual Screens: Osmo Action’s dual screens allow you to capture it all with the touch of a button. A...
- The RockSteady technology combines EIS with complex algorithms, delivering stable, shake-free...
- Action camera with 1/2.3" CMOS Sensor, 12MP, wide-angle 145° that allows you to shoot 4K HDR...
- 8x Slow Motion: Capture every epic move with jaw-dropping clarity and detail when you use 8x slow...
- 11m Waterproof, -10℃ Temperature Resistant Sporting a watertight seal and a hydrophobic coating on...
Best Budget: Akaso EK7000 Pro 4K Action Camera
The Akaso EK7000 Pro 4K Action Camera has a ton of features that make it an excellent budget camera.
It’s waterproof up to 33 feet, shockproof from heights of 6.6 feet, and can be used under temperatures ranging from 14-104 degrees Fahrenheit.
This makes the camera ideal for outdoor use in any climate!
The Akaso EK7000 Pro is one of the best budget action cameras on the market. It can shoot in 4K at 30fps and 1080p up to 120fps, so you will always have a good shot no matter what you’re doing.
With an extended battery life of up to 2 hours, this camera is perfect for anyone who likes to be mobile but also wants quality footage.
Action cameras are a great way to capture life’s adventures, and the Akaso Ek7000 Pro 4K Action Camera is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly camera.
The EK7000 Pro 4K Action Camera offers many features that other brands do not offer at this price point, such as a 170-degree wide-angle lens with F2.0 aperture.
The 180° rotation lens will allow you to capture every moment with ease and the 2 inch LCD screen makes viewing shots easy as well.
You won’t be disappointed!
- UPGRADE SERIES OF AKASO EK7000: AKASO EK7000 Pro action camera delivers 4K/30fps, 1080P/60fps videos...
- INTUITIVE UI DESIGN: Ultra 2 inch IPS touch screen shows everything crystal clearly and brightly,...
- ELECTRONIC IMAGE STABILIZATION: Built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) delivers steady and...
- WATERPROOF CAMERA UP TO 131FT: Equipped with the upgraded waterproof case, this underwater camera...
- ADJUSTABLE VIEW ANGLE: You can set the view angle of this action camera depending on your needs...
What To Look For In An HD Video Camera
What should you look for in a video camera? This is a question I get asked frequently and it’s not an easy one to answer.
There are so many different styles of cameras, brands, prices, etc. I’m going to try and break it down into the basics for you.
Video cameras come in many shapes and sizes. There are a plethora of brands, styles, and features to choose from.
Ever since the invention of video cameras, people have been looking for ways to capture and preserve their memories. Whether it’s a wedding or just an everyday family event, each day has its own story that needs to be told.
There are many different types of video cameras on the market today with varying features and prices so choosing one can be difficult.
Here’s a list of the key aspects you should consider when looking for an HD video camera:
- Sensor size.
- Resolution.
- Image stabilization.
- Do you need interchangeable lenses?
- Durability & robustness.
- Budget.
- Your use case for needing the camera!
Best Professional Camcorders
A camcorder is a device that records video to a storage medium. Camcorders have been used for personal and commercial purposes since the 1980s.
They are often employed in many aspects of filmmaking, mainly those related to live-action film-making.
It is not difficult to find a camcorder that will meet your needs. All you need to do is take into consideration the type of video and photos you want, as well as how much storage space or money you are willing to spend.
There are plenty of professional models on the market from brands like Canon, Panasonic, Sony, and JVC with various features including HD video recording capabilities for stunning high definition quality.
Best Family Camcorders
It’s no secret that families are spending more time together than ever before. Whether it be during a family vacation, at the grandparent’s house for Thanksgiving, or just hanging out on a Friday night in your own backyard, there is always an opportunity to capture memories and make new ones with loved ones.
So what better way to do this than with a camcorder?
If you’re looking for a camcorder that is easy to use and offers great quality video, the best family camcorders are ones that offer an LCD screen in addition to their ability to capture high-definition video.
The Sony HDR-CX405/B Camera Camcorder with 32GB Card & Case can be used by both adults and children alike as it has multiple features such as a “Superior Auto Mode” which will automatically adjust settings for you based on your surroundings.
It also includes an adjustable LCD screen so that you can shoot from any angle.
There are many different types of camcorders available on the market today. Some have built-in functions like Wi-Fi connectivity and NFC technology while others do not.
There are a lot of different camcorders that can be used for family purposes. There are some with features that might not work well for the whole family, and others with features that will allow everyone to have their own camera.
It’s important to know what your needs are before you buy any type of camcorder, but we’ve included mention of family videography on a few models in this list, as they offer something special for families.
Best HD Video Camera FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
The best video cameras for filmmaking are a bit different than the best camera in general. There are specific types of features that make your film stand out from others, such as:
- Resolution: Higher resolution means higher image quality and less pixelation.
- Image Sensor Size: Bigger is better because it captures more light which results in better color reproduction.
- Interchangeable lenses: Most of the HD video cameras in this price point don’t have interchangeable lenses. For that, you’ll need a DSLR or mirrorless camera.
What are the best video cameras for you? It depends on what you want to do with it.
Do you want a camera that is easy to use or one that can take photos and shoot videos at the same time?
Are you planning on using your camera in tight spaces, like recording a small child’s birthday party from across the room?
There are many reasons why you might want to buy a video camera. It could be for capturing life’s moments, shooting your own movie, or just recording yourself playing guitar in the living room.
There is no shortage of options when it comes to picking out the perfect camera for your needs and budget. And we’ve included our top HD video camera picks here.
What Is A Good Inexpensive HD Video Camera?
There are plenty of inexpensive cameras that offer features like HD video and sound recording, but not all of them will work well with your needs.
Ever wanted to film a project, but didn’t know what camera to use?
There are so many great options out there and it can be hard to find the right one for you.
What is a good inexpensive video camera?
Many people want to know what the best cameras are but don’t have a lot of money to spend. There are many cheap, yet high-quality cameras that can be found on the market for anyone looking for an affordable option.
These cameras might not look as “professional” as other models, but they still produce great footage and photos with some drawbacks. We’ve included these in the list of cameras in this Buyer’s Guide.
Best Professional HD Video Cameras
There are a lot of options when it comes to finding the best professional HD video camera. There are many factors that can be considered, such as price point and features.
If you’re looking for something under $2,000 then the Sony Alpha A7S II is a great option. It shoots in 4K resolution which is ideal for professionals who want their footage to have a high-quality look on TV or YouTube.
Do you need a camera that can capture stunning footage with little editing needed and have lenses that will make your footage look cinematic?
If this sounds like what you are looking for, then we recommend checking out another of our articles where we discuss more high-end professional HD video camera options.
This Buyer’s Guide that you’re currently reading covers more entry-level cameras.
If you want to go more high-end, then we’d recommend looking at the Canon C100mk2, Sony FS5/FS7, Blackmagic URSA Mini 4K, and Arri Amira.
Each of them has its own pros and cons so it is important to review each one in order to find which one is right for your needs. These are professional-level filmmaking cameras and so come with a price point that reflects that level.
Nowadays, the number of people who want to become a filmmaker is growing. This trend can be seen in higher enrollment rates at film schools and colleges across the country.
It’s important for those wanting to enter this field to have an idea about what type of camera they will need.
We hope you’ve found this article on the best HD video camera useful in aiding your purchase decision. Have any questions about HD video cameras? Let us know in the comments.
We have Gear Buyer’s Guides on every type of Filmmaking Equipment!
