The 9 Best Canon Video Camera in 2023
With regards to Canon Video Camera, the current trend in big social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok, which puts emphasis on high-quality videos, shooting video has now been a major focus for professional photographers, videographers, and social media influencers.
That is why many people have turned to DSLR cameras, not only do they capture photos with great image quality, but they also have excellent video shooting capabilities.
But with a lot of DSLR cameras available in the market, it can be a challenge to find the right DSLR camera that suits your needs and budget. Don’t worry we are here to help you out. In this guide article, you’ll know what to look out for when choosing a video camera and what are the best DSLR video camera in the market today. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Best DSLR Camera for Video
When choosing the best low light video camera, there are 4 main factors that you should consider: stabilization, sensor, video output, and ergonomics. We will be discussing each factor below to know why it’s important for video recording and what specifications to look out for when selecting a DSLR video camera.
Sensor and Autofocus
Next on the list of factors to consider when selecting a DSLR camera for video filming is its sensor and autofocus capabilities.
The camera sensor can be considered as the heart of DSLR cameras because it determines the image quality, dynamic range, low-light performance, and as well as what you can see through the optical viewfinder. So when selecting a DSLR camera, consider the sensor size specification because it largely affects the video quality. As much as possible get a DSLR camera or mirrorless camera that has a full-frame sensor.
Autofocus refers to the capability of a camera to focus on a given subject and this matters especially when shooting video that involves fast movements. Now, the autofocus capabilities of a DSLR camera and mirrorless camera depend on its internal mechanisms that work hand in hand with the contrast sensor. So, the faster these mechanisms are the better its autofocus is.
Stabilization
The first consideration when selecting DSLR video cameras is image stabilization. Image stabilization is the capability of a DSLR video camera to reduce the effect of vibration due to movement when shooting videos.
Usually, most DSLR video cameras have this feature and they are implemented in two ways. The first way is that the stabilizers are installed in the camera body. This is usually done by manufacturers such as Sony and Pentax. The second way is that the stabilizers are installed in the interchangeable lenses. This is usually done by Nikon and Canon.
So if you want to have built-in image stabilizers in your video camera without the need to buy a specialized lens for stabilization, go for a brand such as Sony. But if you have an additional budget, using a lens kit with image stabilizers also has its advantage such as seeing the stabilization in real-time through the optical viewfinder.
When buying a DSLR video camera, be on the lookout for these stabilization terms per manufacturer:
- Sony – Super Steady Shot
- Canon – Image Stabilisation (IS)
- Nikon – Vibration Reduction (VR)
- Pentax – Shake Reduction
- Sigma – Optical Stabilization
- Fujifilm – Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
Video Output
This factor refers to its supported recording resolution and frame rates. Resolution refers to how many pixels are there in the video output and the most common video output you’ll see today is Full HD or 1080p. But there are DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras that can produce a video output of up to 8K resolution. The higher the resolution is, the more detailed your videos will be.
Frame rates on the other hand refer to how many frames it can playback in 1 second. The usual frame rate is 30 and 60 frames per second. The higher the frame rate, the smoother the playback is. So, be sure to check out the video output specifications when comparing DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras.
Ergonomics
Last on the list of factors to consider is the ergonomics of the DSLR camera and mirrorless cameras. This refers to how comfortable it is to handle a camera as well as how fast it can be navigated to switch from various settings when shooting videos. This is crucial especially for events that are fast-moving such as sports, wildlife, and racing.
Currently, there are no standards when it comes to ergonomics in the digital camera world. So, we recommend trying out various cameras at your local digital shop and getting a feel for what suits you best.
The Best DSLR Cameras with the Best Video Quality in 2023
Now that we know what factors to consider when selecting the best DSLR for video, let’s move on to the best DSLR cameras that are available in the market this 2023. Let’s get into it!
#1: Canon EOS 6D Mark II Canon Video Camera
- 26.2 Megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
- Optical viewfinder with a 45 point all cross type AF system. Compatible lenses: Canon EF lenses (excluding EF S and EF M lenses)
First on our list is the beginner DSLR camera from Canon. The base model of Canon EOS 6D Mark II is priced at around $500 and has a 4.8 rating from more than 900 customers on Amazon. So it’s fair to say that this is one of the best DSLR cameras for its price point.
The Canon EOS 6D is a full-frame DSLR camera that is meant to be used for photography but has also great video shooting capabilities, even under low light, especially when paired with a great lens kit.
For videos, this Canon EOS camera has a max video resolution output of 1080p (Full HD) with a decent frame rate of 30 frames per second. When capturing video with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels, it can capture and produce a video with 60 frames per second.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | 36 x 24 mm CMOS, 20.2MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | TTL Secondary Image Forming Phase Detection Autofocus Dedicated Sensor |
Shutter: | Mechanical; Vertical Travel; Focal Plane |
Viewfinder: | Eye-Level SLR, Pentaprism |
Processor: | DIGIC 5+ |
Stabilizer: | None, dependent on image stabilizers of the lens. |
Video Output: | MOV file type, 1080p (30, 25, and 24 fps), 720p (60, and 50fps) |
Pros | Cons |
Great as a first DSLR camera, very cheap and functional | The max video resolution is only 1080p (Full HD) at 30 frames per second. |
The best DSLR camera at its price point | Lacks video features that are essential for different types of scenes. |
#2: Canon EOS 4000D Canon Video Camera
- Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera(Intertiol Version)- 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor,DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, 6.8 cm (2.7 inch) TFT LCD, approx. 230 K dots, Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 29.97 fps ,9 Point Auto Focus,Dual,Up to 3 fps Shooting and ISO 12800, Scene Intelligent Auto, Instantly transfer photos and movies to your smart device, for easy sharing on social media or cloud backup, and shoot remotely with Wi-Fi and the Canon Connect app,1 Year Limited Seller Supplied
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 DC III Zoom Lens - EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent) ,Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38 ,One Aspherical Element ,Super Spectra Coating ,Micro Motor AF System , Rounded 6-Blade Diaphragm
Third on our list is another one of the budget-friendly DSLR full-frame cameras, the Canon EOS 4000D which is priced at $500 on Amazon with an average rating of 4.6 from over 1,300 customers.
The Canon EOS 4000D is an intuitive and easy-to-use camera for beginners. In fact, it comes with the Canon’s Photo Companion mobile app that guides you on how to use the Canon EOS 4000D and take great photos. Also, Canon has a built-in program that enables automatically changing the settings to fir the current scene.
Also, it features various connectivity options such as instant transfer of images and videos so you can share them on social media or store them on an external drive. So it’s a great camera for those who are just starting out on using DSLR cameras.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | CMOS APS-C, 18MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | 9-point AF System via the optical viewfinder |
Shutter: | Focal-plane type, electronically controlled |
Viewfinder: | Penta-mirror, 95% coverage |
Image Processor: | DIGIC 4+ |
Stabilizer: | None, dependent on image stabilizers of the lens. |
Video Output: | MOV file type; 1080p (30, 25, and 24 fps), 720p (60, 50 fps), |
Pros | Cons |
One of the best bang-for-buck DSLR cameras, especially for beginner photography and videography enthusiasts. | Despite being feature-packed, the EOS 4000D lacks in the sensor department as it only |
Very friendly to beginners with their various connectivity options, built-in automatic programs, and their mobile apps. |
#3: Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Canon Video Camera
- 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor with is 100–6400 (H: 12800)
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology
Fourth on our list is the Canon EOS Rebel T7 which is priced at $500 on Amazon. It has an average rating of 4.7 from more than 1,500 customers and for good reasons.
The first one is that despite its price point, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is built with a large APS-C CMOS sensor that has a 24-megapixel resolution. So the EOS Rebel T7 is able to capture not only a high-quality image but also high-quality full HD video.
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 also features easy connectivity with wifi and NFC. So, the transfer of photos and videos is quick and easy.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | APS-C CMOS, 24MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | TTL Secondary Image Forming Phase Detection Autofocus Dedicated Sensor, 9-point |
Shutter: | Vertical-travel shutter (first-curtain control is electronic and the second-curtain control is mechanical) |
Viewfinder: | Eye-level single-lens reflex with 95% coverage |
Processor: | DIGIC 4+ |
Stabilizer: | None, dependent on image stabilizers of the lens. |
Video Output: | MOV file type, 1080p (30 and 24 fps), 720p (60 and 50fps) |
Pros | Cons |
Good price-to-performance ratio | Quite similar to the EOS 6D Mark II, albeit the larger sensor resolution. |
Decent image sensor and processor | Lacks various video recording features that are essential for various scenes and subjects. |
#4: Canon EOS R Canon Video Camera
- WHAT’S INSIDE: The EOS R RF24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Kit features 1 EOS R camera body, 1 RF24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM Lens, 1 wide strap, 1 battery charger, 1 LP-E6N battery pack, 1 Cable protector, and 1 IFC-100U Interface cable
- FULL-FRAME CMOS SENSOR & DIGIC 8 30.3 MP IMAGE PROCESSOR CAMERA: Ensures crisp photos and high-resolution videos; enables optimum performance, image processing, and video functionality
Next on our list is the Canon EOS R which is priced at around $2,000 on Amazon and has an average rating of 4.7 from more than 200 customers. This is Canon’s first-ever attempt at creating a full-frame mirrorless camera with an interchangeable lens and an electronic viewfinder.
Despite its price point, the Canon EOS R has various features that make it excellent. The first one is its Dual Pixel CMOS AF, a technology that enables the camera to simultaneously perform phase-difference AF and imaging functions at an astounding speed of 0.05 seconds.
The Canon EOS R is also built with professional videography in mind as it can capture 4k resolution videos with a rich 10-bit gradation and a wide color gamut that complies with the ITU-R BT.2020.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | 36 x 24 mm Dual Pixel CMOS, 30.3MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | phase-difference detection in combination with Dual Pixel AF |
Shutter: | focal-plane shutter which is electronically-controlled |
Viewfinder: | Color EVF with a display of 0.5-inch OLED |
Image Processor: | DIGIC 8 |
Stabilizer: | None, dependent on image stabilizers of the lens. |
Video Output: | MPEG-4 AVC file type; 4K (30 and 25 fps), 1080p (60, 50, 30, and 25 fps), 720p (120 and 100 fps) |
Pros | Cons |
Professional-grade video quality output | Can be too pricey for those who have a really limited budget |
Very fast auto-focus speeds make it ideal for fast-paced subjects and photoshoots. |
#5: Nikon D5600 Video Camera
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Next on our list is a step up from the previous cameras on our list. The Nikon D5600 has a price tag of $1,100 on Amazon and has an average rating of 4.8 from more than 60 customers.
The difference in price from our previous listings is justified because this features a full-frame DX CMOS with a large effective area of 6,000 by 4,000 pixels, resulting in clear and vibrant video quality even when in low light conditions.
Another clear difference from the entry-level DSLR cameras is the number of auto-focus points it has. The Nikon D5600 features 39 auto-focus points that almost span the whole camera frame. This will ensure that the subject stays in focus and in-frame when recording a full HD video.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | 23.5 x 15.6 mm DX CMOS, 24.2MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | Multiple modes- single servo (AF-S), continuous-servo (AF-C), and predictive tracking |
Shutter: | Vertical-travel focal-plane, electronically controlled |
Viewfinder: | Single-Lens Reflex, Eye-level Pentamirror |
Processor: | EXPEED 4 |
Stabilizer: | None, dependent on image stabilizers of the lens kits. |
Video Output: | 1080p (60, 50, 30, 25, and 24 fps), 720p (60 and 50 fps) |
Pros | Cons |
It has improved autofocus as compared to entry-level DSLR cameras. | It lacks the capability to record a 4K video. |
Great for continuous shooting |
#6: Panasonic LUMIX G7 Video Camera
- Superb DSLM image quality without the bulk and weight of traditional DSLRs
- Never miss a photo with three unique 4K Ultra HD Video pause and save 4K Photo Modes
Next on our list is a mid-range full-frame mirrorless camera from Panasonic, the LUMIX G7. The LUMIX G7 is priced at around $1,100 on Amazon and has received an average rating of 4.7 from more than 1,100 customers.
For its price point, the LUMIX G7 delivers superb image quality and video filming capabilities due to its 16-megapixel sensor from Micro Four Thirds. It can record 4K video which has 30 frames per second.
The LUMIX G7 is also quite compact when compared to other cameras in its price points. So, it’s very handy and easy to transport. And it also has a rugged design and build so it’s very durable.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | 17.3 x 13.0 mm Micro Four Thirds CMOS, 16MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | High-Speed AF due to Depth-from-Defocus (DFD) Technology; 49 focus points |
Shutter: | Fully electronic, high shutter speed |
Viewfinder: | Fully electronic Live View Finder (OLED) |
Image Processor: | Venus Engine 9 |
Stabilizer: | None |
Video Output: | 4K (30, 25, 24, and 20fps), 1080p (60, 50, 30, and 25fps), 720p (60, 50, 30, and 25fps) |
Pros | Cons |
Produces superb video quality. | Due to its Micro Four Thirds lens mount, there are only a few lens kits that are compatible. |
Good price-to-performance ratio. | |
Very compact and rugged design. |
#7: Nikon D7500 video camera
- Class leading image quality, ISO range, image processing and metering equivalent to the award winning D500
- Large 3.2” 922K dot, tilting LCD screen with touch functionality
Seventh on our list is the Nikon D7500 which is priced at $1,100 on Amazon and has an average rating of 4.8 from over 900 customers.
The reason for the high ratings it got is because the Nikon D7500 was designed to be similar to one of the best DSLR cameras from Nikon which is the D500. In fact, the D7500 has the exactly same DX CMOS that the D500 has. And paired with the image processing capabilities of the EXPEED 5, the D7500 delivers excellent images and videos comparable to flagship models.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | 23.5 x 15.6 mm DX CMOS, 20.9MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | 51-point dynamic tracking with multiple modes- single servo (AF-S), continuous-servo (AF-C), and predictive tracking |
Shutter: | Vertical-travel focal-plane mechanical shutter |
Viewfinder: | Single-Lens Reflex (Eye-level Pentaprism) |
Image Processor: | EXPEED 5 |
Stabilizer: | None, dependent on image stabilizers of the lens. |
Video Output: | 4K video (30 and 25 fps), 1080p (60, 50, 30, 25, and 24 fps), 720p (60 and 50 fps) |
Pros | Cons |
Excellent price-to-performance ratio; produces great video quality even under low-light | A little bulky as compared to other cameras that can capture videos in 4k. |
Great mid-range DSLR camera with a lot of video features |
#8: Sony A7 III Video camera
- Advanced 24.2MP BSI Full-frame Image Sensor w/ 1.8X readout speed Advanced 24.2MP Back-Illuminated 35mm Full-frame Image Sensor
- 15-stop dynamic range, 14-bit uncompressed RAW, ISO 50 to 204,800
Last on our list is a very versatile camera from Sony, the A7 III which is priced at $2,200 at Amazon and has an average rating of 4.8 from more than 1,600 customers.
The A7 III is one of the best cameras that you’ll be seeing in this year 2023. It’s packed with a powerful Exmor R CMOS sensor which is paired with Sony and BIONZ X powerful image processors. Due to this combination, this camera produces natural and life-like videos and images.
Another astonishing capability of this camera is its autofocus. It utilizes a fast hybrid autofocus system that combines 693 phase-detection points with the 425 contrast-detection points from the sensor. This enables the Sony A7 III on-point autofocus capabilities making it ideal for subjects that are fast.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | 35.6 x 23.8 mm full-frame Exmor R CMOS, 24.2 MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | Fast Hybrid with 693 phase-detection and 425 contrast-detection points |
Shutter: | Vertical-traverse, focal-plane type; Electronically controlled |
Viewfinder: | Electronic Viewfinder (EVF), 1.3cm OLED |
Image Processor: | Sony and BIONZ X |
Stabilizer: | 5-axis Steady Shot |
Video Output: | XAVC S and AVCHD format; 4K (30 and 24 fps), 1080p (120, 60, and 30 fps), 720p () |
Pros | Cons |
Creates natural and life-like images and videos | Might be too pricy for people who have a tight budget. |
Cutting edge autofocus technology with 693 phase-detection points | |
Compatible with a wide array of lens |
#9: Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 DSLR camera
- 4K video and 4K photo: Panasonic’s exclusive 4K photo technology uses 30 frames per second in high resolution 4K ultra HD video to extract them as photos; You’ll never miss that moment again
- Leica DC Vario Elmarit lens: 24x zoom (25 600 millimeter with Full zoom range F2; 8 aperture for enhanced low light shooting meeting the stringent quality standards established by Leica
Next on our list is another one of the best budget full-frame DSLR cameras. The Lumix FZ300 is priced at $500 on Amazon and has received an average rating of 4.7 from over 1,800 customers.
The main advantage this has over the Canon EOS 6D camera is that this has a lot more features and options for video recording. For example, the Lumix FZ300 can shoot 4K video recordings with a rate of 30 frames per second.
This camera is paired with a multistage iris diaphragm Leica DC Vario Elmaritt Lens that has an aperture size of 2.8 and a focal length of 25 to 600 mm. Enabling this budget camera to also capture macro shots and long-range shots.
Specifications:
Image Sensor: | 1/2.3-inch High Sensitivity MOS Sensor, 12.8MP |
Autofocus (AF) System: | Automatic Focus (Single, Flexible, and Continuous Shooting) |
Shutter: | Bulb Type, Mechanical (60 – 1/4,000 seconds) and Electrical (1 – 1/16,000 seconds) |
Viewfinder: | OLED Live View Finder (LVF) |
Processor: | Venus Engine |
Stabilizer: | Hybrid 5-axis optical stabilizers |
Video Output: | 4K (30 and 24 fps), 1080p (50 and 25 fps), 720p (100 and 25 fps) |
Pros | Cons |
One of the cheapest DSLR video cameras that offer 4K video recording and high-speed recording. | Lens are not interchangeable. Only has accessories to improve macro and zoom shots. |
Very rugged, it is splash-proof and dust-proof perfect for capturing moments during outdoor adventures |
Final Thoughts
In summary, there are a lot of Canon Video Camera that you can use to shoot video recordings. But it’s important to consider first your budget and your videography needs. This way you’ll be able to compare various cameras with a clear direction in mind.
If you’re tight on a budget getting the LUMIX FZ300 or EOS 4000D is a great choice. But if you can extend your budget for a bit, then we recommend getting the Sony A7 III.
How about you? What do you think is the best DSLR for video? We would love to hear from you so let us know your thoughts by commenting down below.