If you want to get started with video, check out our top picks for budget-friendly used video cameras and accessories. Richard Sibley guides us through what you need.
Video in consumer cameras had well and truly come of age. A decade ago 4K capture was the talk of the town, but now top-end cameras can shoot in 8K, and the used camera market is awash with affordable 4K cameras. There has never been a better time to get started recording video, whether it is to capture family events, holidays, adventures or just to start your own YouTube channel.
Over the following pages we have rounded up the used cameras and kits that we think will enable you to create your budget-friendly video set-up. Of course, there isn’t room to cover every available product or every detail, so use this guide as the starting point to find out more, for example, have a look at our guide to the best cameras for vlogging, where you’ll find new options. If you find something you like, check out the used prices on reputable retailers’ websites.
What to look for in a video camera
Resolution
Full HD 1920×1080 resolution cameras are common, but today there is no excuse to be shooting at this lower resolution. You can easily pick up a used camera that shoots in 3840×2160, or even 4096×2160, which is 4K or what’s known as Cinema 4K resolution.
Other things to look out for are the bit depth. All cameras should record in 8-bit, but you will find some that will capture 4K footage in 10-bit either in-camera or via HDMI, which offers more detailed colour.
Image styles
Just as photographers can shoot a variety of different image colour styles, such as standard, portrait or landscape, filmmakers also have these options. Some cameras will have one or two dedicated video styles, as well as the ability to record in a log mode.
Log footage is very flat and low in contrast, allowing you to add your colour style. However, the image can be tricky to adjust without adding banding or image noise, so many people will look for a good built-in cinematic video style.
Autofocus
One area that has received huge advancements is autofocus during video. Older cameras may be prone to hunting for focus randomly or drifting in and out. Others may not have face tracking or eye tracking available. Depending on what you are planning to shoot, check the autofocus features to make sure it meets your demands. If you plan on filming yourself, or your family, then at the very least having face detection AF is a must.
Body style
Whilst most of the cameras we have listed are mirrorless, there are two different styles: the rangefinder and the SLR style. It’s personal preference but the body style will affect how you hold and use the camera and the type of screen that will be used.
Lenses
Rather than talk about specific lenses think more about what lenses are available for the system. Older mirrorless systems such as the Sony E mount or Micro Four Thirds have a huge number of proprietary and third-party lenses available and it is easy to pick up a bargain. There will be fewer options with a new camera system.
Connectivity
You will want to grow your camera kit by adding different audio components or even an external screen. A 3.5mm external microphone socket is essential, and a 3.5mm headphone socket is also beneficial because it allows you to monitor the sound as it is recorded.
Also, an HDMI socket is useful if you wish to add an external monitor or recorder. Be warned that many cameras will have Micro HDMI sockets which can be prone to breaking or loose connections. When buying always check the HDMI socket on a camera, or at least ask if it is working. Cameras with a Mini HDMI or better still a full-size HDMI socket offer a more secure and reliable connection.
Screen
If you plan to get in front of the camera you will want an articulated screen that flips round to the front. However, if you are more of a documentary filmmaker, or have no wish to be front and centre, then just a tilting screen should be okay.
Panasonic Lumix GH5
- Price: Approx £500
- Sensor: 20.3-million-pixel Four Thirds
- Video Resolution: Up to 4K (4096×2160) 60fps
- Audio: 2x 3.5mm headphone and Mic
- HDMI: Full size – 10-bit 4:2:2 output
- Stabilisation: In-camera and Optical
Launched in 2017, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is still a superb choice if you want to get started. It’s capable of capturing video at up to an impressive 400Mbps in 4:2:2 10bit at ALL-Intra compression quality – meaning that every frame is a keyframe, which is about the best quality you can get short of raw capture.
It has an articulated screen, all the inputs and outputs you need, including a full-size HDMI socket, and it can even shoot anamorphic footage. However, perhaps the best reason for buying a GH5 is the lenses. There are hundreds of lenses available for the Micro Four Thirds mount. The only downside is that the autofocus can be a little slow with a tendency to hunt.
Fujifilm X-T3
- Price: Approx £630
- Sensor: 26.1-million-pixel X-Trans APS-C
- Video Resolution: Up to 4K (4096×2160) 60p
- Audio: 2x 3.5mm headphone and Mic
- HDMI: Micro size – 10-bit 4:2:2 output
The X-T3 was Fujifilm’s best camera for video when it was released, partly due to the fact it can record 4K 60fps 10-bit 4:2:0 internally or 4:2:2 over HDMI. Everyone loves the Fujifilm Film Simulation picture styles and these can be used for video, including the Eterna simulation, which is specifically designed for video.
The phase detection autofocus works well compared to the contrast detection systems of the time. The downsides are that the screen is tilting and doesn’t face forward, and there is no in-camera stabilisation, so it is not as ideal for vlogging. If you do want to use a monitor to record yourself then you need to take care as it has a less sturdy Micro HDMI socket.
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K
- Price: Approx £860
- Sensor: Four Thirds
- Video Resolution: Up to 4K (4096×2160) 60p, 12-bit
- Audio: 2x 3.5mm headphone and Mic, Mini-XLR
- HDMI: Full Size – 10-bit 4:2:2
Although it is far from pocketable, the 4K version of the BMPCC is a tiny cinematic video powerhouse. It can shoot Blackmagic Raw 12-bit footage at a compressed rate of as little as 3:1 which means it is recording footage at an incredible 136MB/s (or 1140Mbp/s). If you don’t need that quality then there are Apple ProRes 10-bit options. To save needing hundreds of memory cards the BMPCC 4K can record to a suitable SSD via USB-C. In summary, the footage looks incredible for its size and price. The Micro Four Thirds mount means there are lots of lens choices, and it has a beautifully large 5in screen and a simple-to-use operating system. It’s a great choice for budding filmmakers
Downsides are that there is no internal stabilisation and the autofocus is barely usable; this is not a camera for vlogging!
Nikon Z6
- Price: Approx £680
- Sensor: 24.5-million-pixel Full Frame
- Video Resolution: up to 4K 30fps 144Mbps
- Audio: 2x 3.5mm headphone and Mic
- HDMI: Mini – 4:2:2 – 10-bit
Along with the Nikon Z 7, the Z 6 was Nikon’s first serious attempt to appeal to video users. The internal video recording and features were quite standard for the time, with 4K 30fps 8-bit internal recording. However, via the Mini HDMI socket, it can record 4K 10-bit footage to an Atomos Ninja V (something the Sony A7S II cannot do). The footage could also be saved on the Ninja V in ProRes raw format, making the Z 6 a solid camera for those looking for good image quality.
The phase detection autofocus works well in video capture, usually staying locked onto subjects. However, the lack of a front-facing screen makes it tricky for vlogging, unless paired with an Atomos Ninja V. There is also a premium to paid for used lenses, with the Nikon Z system still fairly new.
Sony A7S II
- Price: Approx £730
- Sensor: 12-million-pixel Full Frame
- Video Resolution: Up to 4K 30fps (3840×2160) 4:2:0
- Audio: 2x 3.5mm headphone and Mic
- HDMI: Full Size – 4:2:2 8-bit output
The key to the popularity of the A7S II is the 12-million-pixel sensor which combines a good dynamic range with the ability to produce great-looking footage in low light. It has a maximum expanded sensitivity of ISO 409,600.
Its 4K capture looks a little dated, as it can only capture 8-bit footage, either internally or externally, at 30fps. It also only has a tilting screen, rather than front-facing. That said, with built-in stabilisation, full-size HDMI socket and good AF, it marks an excellent introduction to shooting video with the full-frame Sony
E-mount cameras. Not to mention there is a good range of Sony and third-party lenses available.
DJI Osmo Pocket
- Price: Approx £130
- Sensor: 12-million-pixel 1/2.3in
- Video Resolution: 4K 60fps (3840×2160) 100Mbps
- Audio: Mic input via optional adapter
- HDMI: N/A
A curveball option that certainly won’t be
for everyone. The DJI Osmo Pocket takes a small smartphone sensor and combines it
with a 3-axis gimbal stabiliser with a small screen. The stabilisation helps to keep everything steady whilst moving, or you can put the camera on a tripod, via a third-party mount, and use tracking to have it follow
you whilst you move.
It is limited in terms of video quality, and
it can be fiddly to use, although it can also plug directly into your smartphone for a
larger screen. However, it is truly pocketable, and the smooth footage and active tracking make it great for vlogging or recording your family or photographic adventures.
Canon EOS R
- Price: Approx £950
- Sensor: 30.4-million-pixel Full Frame
- Video Resolution: Up to 4K (4096×2160) 8-bit 4:2:2
- Audio: 2x 3.5mm headphone and Mic
- HDMI: Mini – 10-bit 4:2:2
It was Canon’s first camera to use the new RF, with much of the technology borrowed from the EOS 5D Mark IV, including the sensor. However, it has some video improvements. Notably, Canon’s Dual Pixel AF works in 4K capture, and the HDMI output is 10-bit 4:2:2.
As you would expect the handling from the camera is great, and there are all the inputs and outputs you need. However, there are some flaws with the camera when shooting video; There is a 1.8x crop when shooting video and no sensor-based stabilisation. There is digital stabilisation, but increases the sensor crop for 4K video – so grabbing a wideangle lens is essential. Thankfully, an RF to EF mount is available and you can even use many EF-S (APS-C) lenses as more affordable video options.
GoPro Hero 7 Black
- Price: Approx £100
- Sensor: 12-million-pixel 1/2.3in
- Video Resolution: Up to 4K (4096×2160) 60p 80Mbps
- Audio: Mic via USB-C
- HDMI: Micro HDMI
Whilst the GoPro Hero5 was something of a turning point for the GoPro range, the Hero 7 was the first to offer GoPro’s HyperSmooth electronic stabilisation. This stabilisation keeps the footage looking extremely smooth, almost like it has been shot on a gimbal. This made it a great option for adventurers and sports enthusiasts, but also for vloggers who could walk and talk more easily.
With a huge range of accessories, there are countless options for mounting GoPro cameras almost anywhere, and used cameras and accessories are easily available.
Make sure that you get the GoPro Hero 7 Black version (not the White or Silver) as it offers the best 4K recording and is the only one to feature the HyperSmooth stabilisation.
Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens
- Price: Around £300-400
This lens from Sigma became an instant favourite amongst videographers by providing an almost perfect focal length zoom for many video productions. The lens is still in production, so used prices can vary hugely depending on the condition and lens mount.
It is an APS-C format lens, available in several DSLR mounts. However, the Canon EF mount is most popular, with many videographers using it with a lens adapter to mount the lens on Micro Four Thirds, Sony E (APS-C) or Fujifilm X-mount cameras. If you are using such a camera, grab this lens and a suitable adapter.
Benro KH25P Video Tripod
- Price: Around £150
If you are after a good-quality video tripod to get started, look no further than the Benro KH25P aluminium tripod and head. Weighing 3.41kg and coming with a travel case, it is lightweight enough to shoot outside but heavy enough to remain stable. Its sturdy legs can be raised in two sections to a maximum shooting height of 156cm, and the leg braces can be locked to keep everything secure. A basic, but very usable, pan and tilt video head is included.
iFootage Cobra 3 monopod
- Price: From £100
Another favourite amongst videographers, the iFootage Cobra 3 monopod is perfect for went you want some stability, but a tripod is overkill. The three-section monopod comes in carbon fibre or aluminium versions, has large flip locks, and may even come with the excellent iFootage video head. However, the beauty is that it has a built-in quick-release system, and the monopod legs can even be used as a table-top tripod. And, if you are brave enough, and using a light enough camera, it is great for recording yourself.
DJI Mini 2
- Price: Around £300
Drones have created so many more opportunities for videographers, and they are great fun to fly responsibly. The DJI Mini 2 can capture 4K footage and fold down so that it can be easily taken on your adventures. It weighs under 249g, meaning in many countries it can be flown with only an operator ID and passing a basic responsibility course (but please check local rules before flying). It has a flight time of around 20mins. Overall, the DJI Mini 2 is an easy-to-use drone, with lots of safety features in the DJI app to make sure you stay safe.
Zoom H1n
- Price: Around £50
An external recorder, such as the affordable Zoom H1n, can be used to record ambient sounds to add depth to your videos, or just use it as an interview mic. Or you can use it as a backup mic and recorder, just in case something happens to your in-camera audio. There is a built-in 3.5mm mic socket if you want to use a specialist mic for a task, and there is a 3.5mm headphone socket to monitor. With recording quality up to 24-bit 96kHz it can add some audio finesse to your videos.
DJI Ronin SC
- Price: Around £150
Between lens, sensor and digital stabilisation, getting steady footage is a lot easier than it was. However, if you are walking or moving around, a 3-axis gimbal stabiliser such as the Ronin SC can make a huge difference. The Ronin SC has motors powerful enough for a mirrorless camera or small DSLR, and it includes a small tripod that allows you to easily set and balance your camera, or use it with the DJI app and use ActiveTrack you track a subject, or yourself, as they move around the scene.
Mount adapter
- Price: From £20
Mount adapters can be so cheap that you can buy one new or source a used one for less than £20 – however, it is worth buying from a named brand. With almost everyone shooting on mirrorless cameras, a mount adapter will allow you to use older SLR lenses on a mirrorless camera, and there are almost limitless combinations of adapters and lenses to choose from.
Whilst some adapters can autofocus, generally they aren’t that great. Besides, half the fun is using vintage manual focus lenses and getting a look you can’t get with a modern lens.
Rode Wireless GO Mic kit
- Price: Around £100
Another piece of kit that became an instant classic and shaped how we record sound. The kit consists of a microphone and receiver which wirelessly pair together. The microphone has a 3.5mm socket for an additional mic to be mounted if you want to upgrade the audio, but for an on-the-go mic kit for vlogging and interviews, it is small, easy to use thanks to USB-C charging and small LCD screens, and most of all produces great sound quality.
Atomos Ninja V
- Price: Around £400
Recording to an Atomos Ninja V can help you get the most from an older camera. The Ninja V allows for 4K recording to the highest quality ProRes formats, and it can take advantage of the 10-bit HDMI out of some cameras. You can preview LUTS on log footage, or even bake them directly in. On some cameras, there’s an option to save footage in a raw format. Not to mention the 5in screen is streets ahead of a camera screen if you want to film yourself.
X-Rite ColorChecker Passport Video
- Price: Around £40
If you are just starting, it is unlikely that you will be shooting raw footage. Getting the colour correct in-camera is important, as there can be a lot less flexibility when it comes to editing colour in the video before the image quality starts to break down. The X-Rite ColorChecker Passport Video has a white balance card, focus checker and a colour palette, giving you everything you need to make sure the colours that you get in-camera are as good as you can get.
Generic Variable ND filter
- Price: From £20
When shooting video, your shutter speed remains fixed whilst you are shooting. Similarly, your aperture should remain fixed; changing the aperture if the light changes mid-shot will also change the depth of field. Setting the camera to use Auto-ISO is a good option, but may cause noise and dynamic range to change in the middle of shooting. A Variable ND gets around this by allowing you to manually change the light entering the lens, whilst all the other exposure settings remain the same.
Generic camera cage
- Price: From £20
A camera cage is a frame that fits around your camera and offers many more mounting points for adding accessories. There is a wide variety of different cages, from a half-cage to a full cage with additional handles. A cage allows you to customise your camera to suit your needs. Use it to mount accessories, from lights, microphones, handles, power supplies, and monitors; a cage can make your video set-up personal to you.
Honourable mentions
We simply don’t have enough room to cover every single camera, but there are a few that we thought deserved at least a mention…
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera
The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera (Around £650) is a tiny Full HD powerhouse featuring a Super 16 size sensor and Micro Four Thirds lens mount. It is simple to use and although the autofocus is awful, the quality of the footage it creates is incredible for its size and price. Expect to pay around £600-650 body only.
Sony ZV-1
The Sony ZV-1 (Around £450) was Sony’s first dedicated vlogging camera and was based on the RX100 range. With a 1-inch sensor, mic socket, face-detection AF, SteadyShot and Sony Picture Profiles, it is a truly pocketable vlogging camera. Expect to pay around £400-450.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
From the dynasty of cameras that kickstarted the video revolution with the 5D Mark II, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR (Around £1,000) shoots 4K video and is a great option for those who won’t let their Canon EF system lens go.
Sony A7S
And finally the original Sony A7S (£550). With a 12-million-pixel full-frame sensor, it is about the cheapest full-frame camera for video that you can get and is still one of the best at shooting in low light. Although it can only record Full HD in camera, it can record 4K via HDMI.
Related reading:
- Best vlogging camera for video and YouTube
- The best lenses for video
- Best video editing software
- How to get outstanding audio in your videos
- How to use LUTs for colour grading video
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