The 7 Best & Cheapest Video Cameras For Professionals

If you’re looking for the best cheapest professional video camera, then you’ve come to the right place. We have put together a list of all of our favorite cheap but high-quality cameras that will give you professional quality video without breaking your budget.

These are cameras that anyone can afford and use to make amazing videos, whether they’re just getting started with filmmaking or want to expand their skillset beyond DSLRs.

If you’re reading this, you probably know that professional video equipment doesn’t come cheap. However, there are plenty of options for getting started on a budget—especially if you can use some older equipment from friends or family members.

To help you get started with your own project and find the best cheap professional video camera for your needs, we’ve put together this guide. Here are our favorites:

DSLRs are great if you want to shoot high-quality content because they shoot in full 1080p HD at 60 fps with a shallow depth of field that gives everything a cinematic look. However, they’re also pretty expensive—and not everyone has one lying around their house!

Fortunately, there are plenty of other options that don’t require much money but still deliver beautiful results when used properly:

If you’re on a tight budget, it may be difficult to find a professional-grade video camera. But a few factors will help you find the best video camera at an affordable price. Weight is one of the most important factors to consider.

The video camera should be light enough to hold while giving you easy access to controls. Another feature you should look for is weather-proofing. This will help you deal with all sorts of unexpected circumstances and increase the life of your video camera.

What are the best and cheapest professional cameras?

There are a few things you should consider when deciding on which professional camera to buy. Firstly, what is your budget? There are many great cameras available at different price points. Secondly, what do you need the camera for? If you need it for landscape photography, you’ll need a different camera than if you need it for portrait photography.

Thirdly, what features are important to you? Do you need a camera with a lot of megapixels? With 4K video capabilities? With a flip-out screen? Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices and find the best camera for you. See below for a listing of the top 7 cheapest professional cameras that are perfect for anyone looking for HD quality and maximum performance.

Panasonic LUMIX ZS100 | Best 4k Camera On A Budget (Under $500)

The Panasonic LUMIX ZS100 is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera that shoots 4K video at 30 fps. It has a 16x optical zoom and 10x digital zoom, as well as 5-axis image stabilization for smooth video recording even when you’re using the long end of its lens.

The LUMIX ZS100 also features Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to transfer your photos and videos directly from the camera to your mobile device so they can be shared instantly. Users can also use their mobile devices as remote controls for the camera, including accessing the touch screen LCD display on compatible devices such as smartphones or tablets.

In addition, there’s an HDMI output port that allows footage shot with this model (or other SD card-based cameras) to be viewed on larger screens such as TVs or computer monitors while simultaneously playing back audio through stereo speakers built into each unit.

If you want more serious sound quality than what those tiny speakers provide then an external microphone jack gives users another option for connecting professional microphones designed specifically for recording audio at high volumes without distortion from vibrations caused by loud noises around them (such as trucks driving past).

Picture Quality

The ZS100 is the most advanced travel zoom camera in the market today, featuring a large 1″ 20.1MP sensor and Venus Engine IX processor to deliver exceptional detail and sharpness.

The Panasonic LUMIX ZS100 is an excellent option for those looking to upgrade their smartphone camera without breaking the bank. In fact, the ZS100 offers many of the same features as more expensive models such as a large f/1.4 aperture and 4K video, but don’t let its pocket-friendly price tag fool you: The ZS100 takes great photos and videos.

Video Quality

The LUMIX ZS100 is one of the few compact 4K video cameras available today. Thanks to its new 20.1-megapixel 1″ high sensitivity MOS sensor, the LUMIX ZS100 offers a low-light performance that outshines every competitor in its class. In addition, the LUMIX ZS100 features an ultra-fast f/2.8 aperture LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMILUX lens with 5x optical zoom and 10x Intelligent zoom for outstanding low light performance for subjects as far away as 1.6 miles (2.6 km).

The LUMIX ZS100 also boasts a new High Resolution mode that maintains 50 megapixels – five times higher than full HD – so you’ll get razor sharp results at even more extreme magnification levels than before.

Conclusion

This is an amazing camera for producing professional quality 4K video. It’s light, compact and feels very well built. The image stabilization works well and it does not get overly warm in use. The camera is wonderfully fast at focusing on subjects even in low light conditions. Great for shooting wildlife, sports or just impressing your friends with the high quality of video that it produces!

This camera has advanced technology, high quality, and it’s a professional camera. For those who like to take pictures, this item is an ideal camera for them.

Sony Handycam FDR-AX53 – Best Budget Professional Camera

The Sony Handycam FDR-AX53 is a great choice for the price. It’s marketed as an action cam, but it’s also good for shooting video of your kids or narrative films. The built-in image stabilization helps you keep your shots steady when you’re on the move—like when you’re skiing or snowboarding—and we found that the picture quality was excellent in low light as well (though not quite up to professional standards).

Plus, if you want to get really creative with your filming, the Handycam FDR-AX53 features slow motion recording at up to 120 frames per second at 1080p resolution and 240 frames per second at 720p resolution.

Although it doesn’t shoot 4k video like some other options on this list, we think that makes sense given its price point: At less than $300 (for our recommended model), this camera offers impressive performance for an affordable price.

This camera is a great choice for those who want to record high quality video, but don’t want to spend a ton of money. You’ll get 4k video and super slow-motion video with this camera. The 3-axis image stabilization will help you get steady footage no matter what you are filming, whether it be a mountain hike or an action scene in your film.

The Sony Handycam FDR-AX53 has digital image stabilization as well that won’t require any extra accessories! It also comes with stereo mics built right into the housing of the camera which means they won’t pick up ambient noise like wind or traffic while recording outside (or dogs barking at night if you’re shooting indoors).
It’s got an HDMI output so you can hook it up directly to your television and see exactly what’s going on with live view on screen before hitting record – making sure everything looks perfect before hitting send!

Picture Quality

The Sony Handycam FDR-AX53 offers a new level of quality, even in low light. With Super Slow Motion functionality, 4K resolution and 10x Optical Zoom, this model is perfect for filming fast action or shooting footage from long distance. You’ll also love its compact and lightweight design that can withstand the toughest conditions. Get professional quality video with the Sony Handycam FDR-AX53.

The high resolution and 4K Video Recording of the FDR-AX53 camcorder makes it ideal for aspiring filmmakers and home video makers. Made in the USA, this camcorder boasts a 60x Optical Zoom lens, making it perfect for sports or wildlife shooting. The Handycam FDR-AX53 features a 3” LCD screen with touch sensitivity so you can easily use the touchscreen controls to enhance your recording experience. Other features include: 5G H.264 engine and XAVC S codec support.

Video Quality

The Sony Handycam FDR-AX53 Video Quality is built for all types of shooting, from beginner to professional. With one touch you can optimize the focus, exposure and audio for any shot. Constructed with a large 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, this camera uses Exmor R™ technology to achieve high sensitivity in low light conditions for producing clear images with smooth color gradation and sharp contrast even without a flash or in changing formats.

It also has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC giving you full creative freedom to shoot from virtually anywhere with a smartphone or tablet as remote control. With 4K/30p recording, you can see a world of detail in every scene, while SteadyShot image stabilization provides smooth shots by counteracting the shake from bumps and movement.
Sound quality is taken out of the equation with 360° omnidirectional mic for crisp audio recording, even in loud environments. Collect footage with the enhanced accuracy of 5-axis image stabilization that automatically detects and corrects for camera shake as well as subject blur caused by hand movement or walking.

Conclusion

The Sony FDR-AX53 is a well-rounded camcorder that shoots excellent 4K video and packs a ton of features. It’s also quite simple to use, something that was actually true even before it had its menu systems rebuilt in the updated AX55 model.

You can grab it for a decent price now as some key Amazon promotions have begun taking place, but if you really want a great deal on the Sony Handycam FDR-AX53, Best Buy will take a whopping $100 off when you pair it with a lens bundle or memory card purchase. If you’re serious about getting top notch video and don’t mind spending top dollar, the AX53 is an excellent choice.

Canon VIXIA HF G50 4K30P Camcorder: (most affordable professional video camera)

The Canon VIXIA HF G50 4K30P Camcorder is an affordable camera with a ton of features and great quality. It’s the best cheap camera for video, so if you want something inexpensive but still professional, this is it. It shoots in 4K HD at 30 frames per second and can also capture 1080p video at 60 fps. It records to SD cards up to 256 GB in size so you have plenty of room to store your videos.

This camcorder has dual XLR inputs which are perfect for connecting microphones or other audio sources like mixers or recorders so that you don’t have to worry about wind noise interfering with your audio recordings when shooting outdoors on windy days. The camera comes with two microphones as well: one directional microphone and one shotgun microphone (ideal for picking up sound from far away).

The Canon VIXIA HF G50 4K30P Camcorder features three manual settings: aperture priority mode which lets you control how much light enters through the lens; shutter priority mode which lets you control how long each frame is exposed; and manual mode where both Aperture Priority Mode and Shutter Priority Mode work together allowing complete control over exposure time as well as Aperture Size (how big/small).

Picture Quality

The Canon VIXIA HF G50 4K30P Camcorder features a 30x zoom lens, 5-axis image stabilization and built-in Wi-Fi for easy file transfer. This camcorder gives you picture quality that is even better than full 1920×1080 HD resolution thanks to its super 35 mm CMOS sensor. This sensor gives you more details in dark areas of your pictures and videos, which is why the Canon VIXIA HF G50 4K30P Camcorder is great for low light situations.

Capture every moment with exceptional picture quality. The VIXIA HF G50 is a compact, lightweight camcorder that captures Ultra HD/4K (3840 x 2160p) resolution video at up to 60p up to 100 Mb/sec in MP4 or AVCHD formats.

Video Quality

Professional quality colour & black and white video quality with Canon’s Super 35 sensor, 4K30P resolution, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and up to 18X zoom.The new HF G series is the ultimate in DSLR-like operation, with simple control rings for smooth, responsive and intuitive operation wherever you are shooting.

The HF G50 offers features and performance that are ready for the next generation of filmmakers. The camcorder features 4K video recording capability and intelligent autofocus, which combines to deliver 4K 30p in MP4 format. The high-quality video is combined with a host of professional-level creative options including Lytro’s cinematic light field stabilization and Canon’s Advanced Zoom technology to give users a complete cinematic experience.

Conclusion

The Canon VIXIA HF G50 4K30P Camcorder is a great choice for those who want an easy to use, feature-packed camera. It has a large sensor to provide excellent low-light performance, manual controls for Pro users, an SD card slot for storage, and a touchscreen. And with 4K video, the camera can be used for serious videographers and for everyday use at the same time.

Though Canon’s VIXIA HF G50 4K30P camcorder is a good entry-level model, it doesn’t offer the same sort of high-end video quality or overall versatility as other models in its price range. It does a very good job of shooting video at 4K and 30p, but this comes at the cost of battery life and some audio limitations.

Canon VIXIA HF R800 (Most featured rich camera on a budget)

This camera is packed with features and it’s easy to see why. It offers 4K video recording, 30p recording, and a 30x optical zoom. When you’re done recording your footage you can upload it directly to YouTube or Facebook via built-in Wi-Fi. The Canon VIXIA HF R800 also has built-in microphone, speaker, flash and GPS functionality so you can use this camera for everything from travel videos to nature documentaries.

Plus there are plenty of other cool features like Picture Quality Mode (for photos), Auto Flicker Reduction (for shooting under fluorescent lighting), Face Detection & Tracking Focus (to make sure your subject is always in focus).

The Canon VIXIA HF R800 is a professional camcorder that offers many features, including 4K video recording, 30p recording and 30x optical zoom. It also has built-in Wi-Fi, microphone and speaker. The device comes with a variety of additional functions such as built-in flash, GPS and compass which can be used to monitor the user’s location or record their activities.

The device has a 1/4 inch large CMOS sensor with full HD resolution (1920 x 1080) at 60 fps frame rate. With this camera you can shoot all types of videos including short films and documentaries thanks to its amazing performance! The camera has been designed so that it can be held comfortably while you are shooting your scenes or subjects because it only weighs around 1 lb when fully loaded with batteries so no need for shoulder straps or any other equipment which will just get in the way during filming sessions!

The picture quality produced by this product is excellent due to its high quality construction materials used throughout every component on board such as casing material made out of aluminium alloy metal giving users confidence knowing that their investment won’t break apart easily when dropped off something heavy such as chair legs while sitting down waiting patiently until they’re needed next time; plus these devices don’t require any maintenance so there’s no risk involved either way here folks.

Either way something breaks down inside one day soon after purchase then simply replace part(s) instead buying new products altogether again like most people do nowadays thinking money grows on trees! This means more money saved for other important things like vacations abroad too.

Picture Quality

Canon’s VIXIA HF R800 camcorder enables users to capture stunning 4K/HD quality video and still images with the flexibility of a built-in touch screen, high resolution display and Wi-Fi connectivity. It comes with a Canon original lens that delivers up to 60x magnification for amazing detail in every frame.

Exceeding expectations and delivering amazing results, the Canon VIXIA HF R800 offers the ultimate in Full HD video quality. Whether shooting a sporting event or a family vacation, you can record pristine footage with EOS digital imaging.

Video Quality

With outstanding HD video quality, the Canon VIXIA HF R800 camcorder combines a compact, lightweight design and an impressive 10x optical zoom range with advanced imaging capabilities to offer you a professional level video experience.

The VIXIA HF R800 is equipped with a powerful 40x Wide Zoom & SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer (IS) lens and advanced digital technologies – including Canon’s latest-generation Advanced Image Stabilizer (AIS), Backlight Compensation (BLC) and Auto Power Off (POOL) – to help boost high-quality output in challenging shooting situations.

Conclusion

The Canon VIXIA HF R800 is a very affordable camcorder that’s simple to use and records excellent 1080p video. The touch screen interface makes it a perfect choice for anyone who wants a sleek camcorder to record unbelievable quality videos of their kids and family outings. It might not have the same features as more expensive models, but there’s nothing stopping you from using this camera in any situation.

With its excellent image stabilization and 20x optical zoom, it’s capable of recording far better footage than the average smartphone user can. Even if you’re filming at dusk or night time, the image quality remains surprisingly sharp with no noticeable noise or grain throughout the frame – something many phones struggle with even in broad daylight.

BlackMagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4k (best intro level professional camera)

The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is an excellent camera for filmmakers on a budget. It has a lot of great features, including:

• 13 stops of dynamic range
• 120fps slow motion video
• 12MP still photos

It also includes a built-in microphone and headphone jack, so you can record in high quality without having to purchase additional equipment.

There are some negatives however; the battery life isn’t as long as other cameras (around 50 minutes). The camera also uses SD cards instead of CFast cards like some other models do, which means you’ll need to purchase more memory if you plan on shooting longer projects such as feature films or TV shows.

The Sony Handycam HDR-CX405 is a well-rounded 4k video camera that shoots at 24p, 120 fps slow motion, and even has a built-in stereo mic. The HDR-CX405 has built in Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth so you can easily transfer your footage to your phone or laptop via the free PlayMemories app.

The picture quality of the Sony Handycam HDR-CX405 is very good for an entry level 4K camera. Its sharpness and color are on par with other cameras at this price range but its low light performance could use some improvement.

The video quality of the Sony Handycam HDR-CX405 is also quite good for an entry level 4K camera but it doesn’t quite match up to similarly priced competitors like Panasonic’s Lumix DMC – ZS50 ( TZ80 ) which has better low light performance thanks to a larger lens size that lets more light into its sensor (1/2″ vs 1/3″).

Picture Quality

The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is a small yet powerful Super 16 digital film camera that gives you incredible cinematic image quality and high dynamic range (HDR) recording at a fraction of the price compared to similar digital film cameras.

The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K records cinematic video in the cinema standard DCI 4K (4096 x 2160) at 24fps, and 12-bit raw image data directly from the sensor for ultimate quality. It can also record 1080 HD, 2K, UltraHD and more all in the same codec at up to 60 fps in ProRes or DNxHD.

Video Quality

The BM Pocket Cinema Camera 4K from Blackmagic Design is a compact Super 16mm digital film camera with a built-in 4K codec and log gamma video recording. The camera records 4k DCI (4096 x 2160) up to 60 fps in both Apple ProRes 422 HQ or Avid DNxHR HQX.

With the internal SSD recording for playback directly from the device, you can capture and recall clips on set immediately. With its highly versatile features and included accessories, the BM Pocket Cinema Camera 4K lets you use it as an Action Cam or Camcorder, or mounted on jibs, cranes, dollies, drones and Steadicams.

Conclusions

BlackMagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is a great camera that very well fits into the category of the best entry-level 4k video camera. This small and compact model can be used both outdoors and indoors due to its small size, at the same time delivering high quality video.

It is also quite simple to operate thanks to its user-friendly design and controls. That makes this model perfect for amateurs as well as professionals.

Overall, Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is a good entry-level 4K video camera for those who want to shoot without spending too much money. However, if you are looking for better image quality, you should consider spending more money on cameras like Canon C200 II or Sony A7 III.

Sony Handycam HDR-CX405: (best 4k video camera for less than $500)

The Sony Handycam HDR-CX405 is a well-rounded 4k video camera that shoots at 24p, 120 fps slow motion, and even has a built-in stereo mic. The HDR-CX405 has built in Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth so you can easily transfer your footage to your phone or laptop via the free PlayMemories app.

The picture quality of the Sony Handycam HDR-CX405 is very good for an entry level 4K camera. Its sharpness and color are on par with other cameras at this price range but its low light performance could use some improvement.

The video quality of the Sony Handycam HDR-CX405 is also quite good for an entry level 4K camera but it doesn’t quite match up to similarly priced competitors like Panasonic’s Lumix DMC – ZS50 ( TZ80 ) which has better low light performance thanks to a larger lens size that lets more light into its sensor (1/2″ vs 1/3″).

Whether you are a home movie-maker or a professional filmmaker, Sony’s HDRCX405 video camera is an excellent choice. The camera’s performance is based on human factors – flexibility, discovery of better images, functional approach, and fun movie-making. You’ll find that it’s easy to capture the heart of any subject. A Sony HDRCX405 professional video camera lets you achieve all of these goals.

The camera’s high-definition 1080p recording resolution makes it a solid choice for amateurs and beginners alike. Its ZEISS lens offers a wide angle for excellent video quality. The camera also records a steady stream of still images while recording video, giving you two modes to choose from. This versatility is a great feature if you plan to film a variety of different types of subjects, from kids to actors.

The camera’s body is cylindrical with a large lens. A flip-out display allows you to view footage easily, and a hand strap enables you to keep the camera in place while filming. The display is easy to use and flips out of the way when not in use. It also features a record button and HDMI port. The camcorder is lightweight and easy to carry, and comes with a carrying case.

Unlike other camcorders, the HDRCX405 has an incredibly versatile camera that can do everything from recording your vacation to creating highlight videos. You can share your movies directly to YouTube and Facebook, and you can even share them on social media sites without editing. There’s also a 2.7-inch display, which makes it a great camera for holiday travel and vacations. You can also record clips of your favorite subjects without any editing.

Sony is one of the best camera brands in the world, and this camcorder is no exception. It’s easy to use and has most of the features you’d expect from a high-end professional video camera. You’ll get 4K video, 120 fps slow motion and 24fps recording options, as well as a built-in stereo mic, built-in flash and GPS functionality. What’s more? It comes with NFC for quick connections with your phone or tablet!

For $450 on Amazon (at time of writing), this is one of the best cheap professional cameras money can buy: it has everything you need for recording serious content at home or on location.

Picture Quality

This camera is the perfect blend of portability and picture quality. The Sony HDR-CX405 High Definition Handycam Camcorder is packed with features that make it ideal for both home and travel. This HD camcorder can record video in 1920 x 1080i resolution at 60 frames per second (fps), so you can see every detail in crystal clear clarity.

Thanks to its 250GB internal flash drive, you’ll have enough space for up to 50 hours of recording without the need for an external hard drive. In addition, it comes with an SD/SDHC memory card slot that allows you to record footage to a removable flash card if you need more storage space than the built-in hard drive provides.

Video Quality

An HD camcorder with an integrated camera, the HDR-CX405 features a 3.0″ Xtra Fine LCD touch screen, 25x optical zoom and advanced SteadyShot image stabilization to produce sharp images in low lighting. The HDR-CX405 records in Full HD 1920 x 1080 at 60p/50p/30p/25p/24 fps or SD quality 640 x 480 at 60i/50i fps for compatibility with the most popular devices.

This Handycam offers an ultra-compact form factor, 1080p Full HD video quality, and the ability to capture life’s precious moments in superb detail. This is made possible by its 1/2.3″ Exmor R CMOS image sensor and Bionz X processor that combine for stunning detail and tranquil images even in low light.

Conclusion

The Sony Handycam HDR-CX405 is a remarkable camcorder, thanks to its excellent image quality, versatile feature set and impressive build quality. It also boasts superb audio recording quality that’s on par with a dedicated microphone. The HDR-CX405 is a fantastic option for novices who want to be able to record high-quality videos without spending big bucks.

This camera is a great choice for anyone looking to start recording and sharing their experiences in a simpler way that still provides plenty of high-quality video. The HDR-CX405’s quality shines through whether you want to record your family going on an adventure or take some time off and travel the world, which is largely thanks to its ability to capture depth in images through its 4K resolution capacities.

Panasonic HC-V770: (affordable video camera for professionals)

The Panasonic HC-V770 is a budget-friendly camcorder with a lot of professional features. It can record videos at 4K resolution, 24p and 60p frame rates, up to 60fps in full HD, and 120fps for slow motion footage.

You’ll get built-in microphones (which are surprisingly good) as well as zoom capabilities that let you get closer to the action than usual on most consumer cameras. The camera also offers built-in wifi so you can transfer files straight from the camera to your phone or computer without a cable.

The image stabilization system uses both optical stabilization and electronic image stabilization which makes it easier to capture steady shots while walking around or moving quickly through crowds.

The Panasonic HC-V770 is an affordable professional video camera with a number of features that make it stand out from the crowd.

24p and 60p recording

If you’re into slow motion effects, then you’ll love the 24p and 60p recording modes on this camera.

4k Video Recording

This camera can record in 4k at 30fps for amazing playback quality. Built-in Microphone/Zoom/Wifi/Battery Built-in Zoom: The built-in zoom allows you to get closer to your subjects without having to change locations or use external lenses. Wifi + Battery: This camera connects easily via Wifi so that you can transfer files directly from one device to another using an app like Dropbox or Google Drive (depending on what type of smartphone or computer you have).

Electronic Image Stabilization

Electronic image stabilization minimizes shakiness by applying corrections at real time rather than after recording has already taken place, which makes for smoother videos overall even when shooting footage in windy conditions or moving vehicles such as boats and cars.

Picture Quality

If picture quality is what matters most then this isn’t exactly where I would begin my search due primarily because there are other cameras out there that offer higher resolution options while still maintaining decent frame rates (60fps). On top of all those great features comes one more bonus—a fully waterproof body!

The Panasonic HC-V770 is a high performance HD camcorder with a 50x Intelligent Zoom, 1/2.3-type MOS sensor, and super slow motion recording at up to 1,000 fps. This camera features a 24Mbps AVC Intra encoding that results in high quality video and low bit rates, allowing recording of HD content with less memory card space than ever before.

With a super35mm sized image sensor, the Panasonic HC-V770 Full HD Camcorder is equipped with a 20x optical zoom (in F1.8 and F2.8) to meet all your creative needs, as well as 12x Intelligent Zoom and 4K Photo Zoom technologies. The big back-illuminated, newly developed MOS sensor delivers outstanding low light performance and high sensitivity for reduced noise.

Video Quality

Panasonic HC-V770 has a 4K (3840 x 2160) video resolution, which makes your images look sharp and clear. It records video in MP4 format, but you also have the opportunity to shoot slow motion video at 720p resolution. The camcorder downscales the image in NTSC mode (24 fps), but it supports PAL codecs so that you can record at 25 fps. It has a 3-way lens system, which means that it can capture a wide angle of view and make those videos more interesting.

Conclusion

This camcorder gives you improved picture quality and exceptional ease of use in a small, ultra-slim body. This handheld camcorder packs a host of high-end features into a surprisingly compact package, including a 1/2.33-inch MOS sensor that captures images at 18 megapixels, allowing you to create great looking still images on your camera.

Video Doesn’t Have To Be Expensive

One key that you may have noticed is that cheaper cameras can be just as good as more expensive ones. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a good camera. Some of the best professional video cameras can cost upwards of $10,000, but there are plenty that start at around $500 and offer excellent quality footage.

You’ll also notice that some of these cameras are 4K while others are 1080p; this refers to how many pixels the camera’s sensor captures per frame (or picture). 4K means 4096 pixels across by 2160 lines down (4 x 2160), whereas 1080p means 1920 pixels across by 1080 lines down (1 x 1080). The higher resolution generally produces sharper images with more detail, but it does require more powerful hardware in order for it to run smoothly and efficiently.

Honorable Mentions

It would be impossible to list all of the cameras that are budget friendly and perfect for professional photographers. We’ve listed a few more below that are great alternative options for the ones we’ve highlighted above. Take a look at these secondary options if none of the above suits your particular needs.

Canon XA11

With a professional-quality lens and powerful features, the Canon XA11 offers an excellent choice for videographers. With its HD-capable sensor, it produces crisp, clear video. Other notable features include a five-axis image stabilization system, Wide DR-Gamma mode, and a Highlight Priority mode. For the perfect shot, you can select the manual or automatic exposure.

This high-end professional video camera also supports a 20x High Definition Optical Zoom Lens. This zoom lens has an incredibly versatile zoom range, with a 35mm equivalent of 26.8-576mm. Moreover, the minimum object distance is approximately 23.6 inches (60cm) or 60cm. The lens has an eight-blade Circular Aperture, which helps to prevent starburst effects common with non-circular aperture designs. Another unique feature of this lens is its user-programmable direction.

The XA11 Professional Camcorder has an impressive set of features. It is small and light in size, with an integrated 20x optical zoom lens, a DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor, and two SD card slots. It records Full HD video in 50p/60p in MP4 and AVCHD format. It is also compatible with several modes, including relay recording and simultaneous recording. Its video recording capabilities include Wide DR-Gamut and Highlight Priority.

The XA11 Professional Camcorder is equipped with an infrared recording mode that allows it to record in bright conditions up to 1.4 times brighter than its predecessor, the XA25. Unlike other models, the XA11 removes the infrared cut-off filter from the optical path, allowing the infrared light to pass directly to the image sensor. The detachable handle of the camera features an infrared emitter with diffuser.

Canon XF100 XLR HD

The Canon XF100 combines the best of both worlds – a compact, high-performance camcorder that can meet a variety of shooting needs. Its 20x optical zoom lens, three control rings, and full image stabilization make it an ideal choice for a wide variety of shooting situations. Other notable features include flexible MXF/MP4 dual recording at different data rates, two/four-channel audio recording, a network interface, and dual-band Wi-Fi(r) technology.

Regardless of the kind of shooting you wish to capture, you’ll want to make sure that your footage is as high-quality as possible. Using the Canon XF100 XLR HD video camera is a great choice for those who want to capture professional-quality video. The 20x HD wide-angle lens provides exceptional clarity, and its 26.8-5176mm* zoom range ensures no subject is overexposed. The camera’s 8-blade circular aperture delivers natural bokeh. The camera’s 5-Axis Dynamic SuperRange OIS system ensures sharp, clear pictures. The camera also supports 4-channel Linear PCM audio recording.

For professionals, the Canon XF100 enables remote control using a standard Web browser. Its Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections provide a secure way to transfer the video files from the camera. The camcorder supports FTP file transfer to external PCs. The camera is also compatible with a Canon RC-V100 wired remote control. For those who need remote control, the camera can be controlled by a laptop or tablet using a web browser.

Sony PMW-100

The Sony PMW-100 professional video camera uses high-speed SxS Express Card recording media for capturing video and supporting a variety of file formats. This camera can record at up to 240 minutes in high-quality 60 fps. The camera is also compatible with SxS Pro and SxS-1 recording media. The camera supports both DVCAM and MPEG HD recording and can accept cards up to 64 GB.

It records at up to 50 Mb/s and can be integrated into the workflow of an XDCAM Professional Disc or XDCAM EX system. The Sony PMW-100 has some good features but it could do with improvements. Its ergonomics could be better, and it could have more controls for aperture and white burning. A neutral density filter would also have helped control the camera’s f1.8-f2.9 aperture, which makes rendering backgrounds out of focus difficult. However, 35mbps and 4:2:0 footage held up well in grading and colour correction.

One of the most useful features of this camera is the lens. The tenx zoom lens allows for an effective 40-400mm focal length range. The ring that controls the lens can be switched to focus control. A 1/2.9” type LCD is also included. The camera has NightShot functionality and built-in LED. It also offers HD/SD-SDI output, and a reversible viewfinder.

Fujifilm X-S10

The Fujifilm X-S10 professional video cameras offer a variety of features for the video enthusiast. The camera is capable of 4K and 30p high-definition video, while also offering features such as face tracking and eye tracking. This camera also features three boost modes to maximize image quality with minimal noise. The camera also features a magnesium alloy front plate as a heat sink. The camera also captures high-speed Full HD video at up to 240 fps.

In terms of handling, the X-S10 is easy to hold, and its magnesium alloy top and front plates keep the camera robust and rigid. Its ETERNA Bleach Bypass mode produces stunning de-saturated images, and it also offers a joystick for precise control of various functions. It has many other useful features, including a large LCD screen and a high-resolution touchscreen.

In addition to its EVF, the camera comes with a headphone jack. The screen is articulating, and the SD card fits inside the battery compartment on the bottom. Overall, the camera feels well-built and is comfortable to hold. While a small memory card slot may be a downside for some, the other features of the X-S10 make it an excellent option for those who want a professional video camera that does all the shooting they need.

Final Thoughts On Cheapest Professional Video Cameras

If you are looking for the best and cheapest professional video camera, you have come to the right place. Here we have compiled a list of 7 best cheapest professional video cameras for you to consider when filming. These cameras come with outstanding features and offer decent affordability.

Video doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right gear, you can capture professional-quality footage on a budget. Just remember that you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on your equipment if you want to get started with video production.

It is not easy to choose which camera is right for you and your business. If you want to make sure that you get the best quality video, then we recommend that you go with a professional camera like one of the ones listed above.