Best Camcorders for Professional Video Capture
Looking for a camcorder but feeling overwhelmed by all the options?
Here are a few recommendations that will give you lots of features without breaking your budget:
Sony PXW-Z90
The Sony PXW-Z90 is a great professional-level camcorder that doesn’t cost much.
It comes with a removable top handle and a big zoom range of 29-348mm, so it's great for all kinds of shooting.
This camera can record amazing 4K video and even does "super slow motion" at 120fps in 1080p.
Plus, it has S-Log which makes color editing easier later on.
At $2,449, the PXW-Z90 is your best option.
Sony AX-700
The Sony AX-700 is a budget-friendly 4K camcorder that costs around $1,200.
It has a 1-inch sensor, which is smaller than the larger Super 35mm sensor in the more expensive Sony PXW-Z90 camcorder.
While the AX-700 does not have all the same features as the PXW-Z90, such as the SDI output, it still provides 4K video recording capabilities at a lower price point.
The AX-700 is a good option for those looking to get 4K video quality without spending as much as the professional-level PXW-Z90.
Canon XC15
The Canon XC15 is a good camcorder for broadcast-quality HD video.
It doesn't have XLR inputs built-in, but it comes with an adapter that adds those plus physical controls.
Priced around $1,800, the XC15 is a great choice if you care about high-end video quality.
Panasonic Lumix S5 II
For a more affordable pick, the Panasonic Lumix S5 II is an awesome mirrorless camera that can shoot 6K video.
It has great autofocus and costs $1,997, making it a versatile option for both photos and videos.
The S5 II is an excellent choice for amateur videographers and filmmakers looking for a hybrid camera with impressive video capabilities and good in-body image stabilization (IBIS) for handheld shooting.
Some key video features that make it stand out:
6K 24p and 4K 60p video recording with unlimited record time
Excellent 5-axis in-body image stabilization for smooth handheld footage
Advanced autofocus system with subject detection and tracking
10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording with codecs like H.265 and Apple ProRes
Full-frame 24MP sensor for great low-light performance
Lens Recommendation
While the kit 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 lens is a decent option to start with, consider stretching your budget for the Panasonic Lumix 24-105mm f/4 lens.
It has a constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range, which is very useful for video work.
This lens plus the S5II body would likely come in around $2,500-2,700 based on current prices.
The constant f/4 aperture allows for better control over depth of field and low-light performance compared to the variable aperture kit lens.
The versatile 24-105mm focal range is also great for different shooting situations.
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2
The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2 is a strong choice.
At $1,995, it has many of the same great features as the more expensive 6K Pro model, like 6K video and excellent image quality.
While it's missing a few things like built-in filters, it's still a powerful camera in a small body.
In addition to the models, here are a few other cameras worth considering for a slightly higher budget:
Panasonic S5 IIX
The Panasonic S5 IIX is also worth looking at.
This camera has impressive autofocus, can shoot 6K video, and has advanced video features like V-Log.
Sony Alpha 7 IV
The Sony Alpha 7 IV is another good option.
It can shoot 4K 60p video, has great autofocus, and gives you a lot of flexibility with its full-frame sensor and wide selection of lenses.
And That’s It
No matter which one you go with, you'll end up with a high-quality, feature-packed camcorder that will help you capture amazing footage.
Take a closer look at these options and see which one fits your needs and budget best.
I hope that helps,
Hakan.