Let's say right away that video cameras are devices with a fairly narrow specialization. In order to understand their features and the intricacies of shooting, it will take a lot of time, trial and, most likely, error. This is especially true for their professional commercial use. You need to be aware of this when purchasing.
On the market now you can find many models to suit every taste and budget. First of all, you need to decide on the purposes for which you are going to purchase a video camera. If you want to shoot streams or live broadcasts, you will definitely need Wi-Fi support, wildlife - autonomy and security, special events - a good microphone and a tripod with which you can comfortably film for a long time. There are also highly specialized solutions such as 360° cameras, but if you need one, you probably know what you need.
In the early 20s of the 21st century, you should not chase performance numbers; they do not correctly reflect all the features of a single device and may only be needed for professional use.
In order to simplify the selection process and clearly show the diversity of the current market, the editors of KP have prepared a review of the best and most popular video camera models of 2021.
Editor's Choice
Sony HDR-CX405
Sony HDR-CX405 Photo: Sony
A balanced budget model from a well-known brand. Despite its relatively low cost, it boasts Full HD shooting with 50 frames, a compact form factor, good optical stabilization and zoom. The problems are standard for inexpensive models - the lack of fully manual settings and mediocre shooting in low light. But it's cheap.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Great value for money ● Easy to use ● Optical stabilization and zoom ● Light and compact
● Poor shooting quality in low light conditions ● No touch screen
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Panasonic HC-V770
Panasonic HC-V770 Photo: Panasonic
In essence, this is an amateur camera close to the reference one. The characteristics are adequate to the cost, the setup is quite flexible and convenient. The software and ergonomics are well thought out. The skimpy standard equipment is a little disappointing. In addition, the cost has increased significantly recently. All its disadvantages can be smoothed out by setting it up and purchasing accessories.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Decent characteristics ● High-quality software ● Rotatable touch screen
● Poor equipment ● Standard battery is not capacious enough
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Panasonic HC-VX1
Panasonic HC-VX1 Photo: Panasonic
This is a worthy device that is already aiming towards professional equipment for simple commercial photography. Allows you to record video in Ultra HD at 25 frames per second. The device can be charged from a Power Bank, it supports Wi-Fi connection, slow zoom and other modern features. The main complaint is the software. The control of options is quite specific and not everyone will like it, just like the ergonomics of the video camera.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Shoots in 4K ● Supports modern capabilities ● Suitable for entry-level commercial use
● Not very convenient controls ● Sometimes there are problems with the software
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The best video cameras with Wi-Fi
JVC GC-PX100
In terms of its capabilities, the JVC GC-PX100 camcorder could well be classified as a professional one, but at wide angles the F/1.2 aperture does not work very effectively. However, given the price of 50,000 rubles, this is definitely the best video camera with Wi-Fi. The device’s 12.80 megapixel matrix allows you to shoot HD video at 50 frames per second at resolutions of 1280x720 and 1920x1080, and 8 shooting modes help solve any problem. A small drawback of the JVC GC-PX100 camcorder can be considered the lack of microSD support, but the 46 mm filter has become, although not mandatory, a nice addition.
Price: ₽ 50,000
Rekam DVC-540
But if you need the best video camera with Wi-Fi in the budget segment, then the Rekam DVC-540 is your choice. True, its capabilities are very limited, but at least there is an image stabilizer, and the shooting quality is quite decent. And it’s hard to expect more from a device that costs 8,000 rubles. For this modest price you will get a fully functional device that can easily cope with filming both a children’s party and a rock concert.
Price: RUB 7,990
What other video cameras are worth paying attention to?
Panasonic HC-V260
Panasonic HC-V260 Photo: Panasonic
An inexpensive model from Panasonic. It stands out from its competitors with its 50x optical zoom and high battery life. The impressions are spoiled mainly by the features of working with a memory card and the not very user-friendly interface on the touch screen. Unfortunately, there are no mechanical buttons for duplication.
Advantages and disadvantages
● 50x optical zoom ● Low cost ● High battery life
● Memory problems ● Touch screen control only
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Canon LEGRIA HF R806
Canon LEGRIA HF R806 Photo: Canon
Another budget model in our top of the best video cameras 2021, now from Canon. This device is unremarkable, except for the price-quality ratio, the set of settings and technical characteristics are standard. At the same time, there is nothing superfluous in it, and it is easy and simple to operate.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Relatively inexpensive ● Quite convenient ● Simple
● There is no highlight that would distinguish it from its competitors
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Sony FDR-AX700
Sony FDR-AX700 Photo: Sony
Video camera from the mid-high price segment. It can shoot in 4K at 30 frames per second, in FullHD the shooting speed reaches 120 frames per second, which allows you to capture fast scenes and sporting events in vivid colors. The high-capacity battery ensures uninterrupted shooting will also help you avoid missing an important shot. It is one of the best video cameras in its price category.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Shoots in 4K with high frame rates ● Long lasting battery ● Advanced specifications
● Quite heavy ● Requires quite complex setup and selection of accessories
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Panasonic HC-V760
Panasonic HC-V760 Photo: Panasonic
This camera stands out for its good night photography and high-quality 5-axis stabilizer. There is an extremely convenient manual dial on the body, providing comfortable adjustment. It produces decent sound and has the ability to connect a discrete microphone. The weak side of the camera is photography; it takes rather mediocre pictures, although this is not its specialization. However, all specialized cameras cannot take good photographs.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Night shooting ● Stabilization ● Convenient mechanical control
● Not the most sensitive and convenient touch screen
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Sony HDR-CX625
Sony HDR-CX625 Photo: Sony
A high-quality video camera with an excellent price/quality ratio. It records sound well, provides good proximity and stabilization, has good ergonomics and small dimensions. The design of the USB cable causes surprise and criticism: it is pulled straight out of the case and cannot be removed, which is why it often fails.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Good performance for the money ● Excellent stabilization and proximity
● Poor USB cable design
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Sony FDR-AX33
Sony FDR-AX33 Photo: Sony
A mid-priced video camera capable of shooting 4K video. It has good image stabilization and high detail in 1080p resolution. Equipped with a high-quality display that does not produce glare and allows you to shoot comfortably. Can provide camcorder-worthy photography. Among the shortcomings, we can note the not very convenient ergonomics - the device is heavy, but short. Even though the camera shoots perfectly in FullHD, there may be complaints in 4K.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Quality of detail and stabilization ● Cool display
● Ergonomics (the video camera is relatively heavy and short) ● Complaints about the quality of recording in UltraHD
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Everio GZ-R435
Everio GZ-R435 Photo: Everio
An extremely affordable solution from a not very well-known company that provides decent shooting quality. This is the cheapest model in our rating, which has gained popularity among users. The characteristics are not very high, and neither is the cost. Good autonomy, quite convenient. An excellent “home” and amateur solution that won’t hurt your pocket too much.
Advantages and disadvantages
● Autonomy ● Price ● Good sound
● Strange charging device (consists of 4 parts) ● Mediocre quality
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TOP 10 best professional video camera
Due to the development of earning money via the Internet, maintaining various video blogs and producing other video content, the demand for good cameras has increased significantly. Having processed a large amount of information, we have identified the ten most popular models.
- Sony DCR-VX2100E.
- Panasonic HC-X1.
- Canon XC15.
- Canon XF305.
- Canon XA40.
- Panasonic AG-AC30.
- Sony DSR-PD175.
- Sony PXW-Z280.
- Sony HDR-FX1000E.
- Panasonic AG-AC160.
Below we will consider in detail each of the presented specimens.
Sony DCR-VX2100E
Sony's portable professional camcorder is lightweight, reliable and convenient, featuring advanced 3CCD technology for superior image quality and accurate color reproduction.
The camera features 12x optical zoom and 48x digital zoom, as well as Super SteadyShot optical function. There is also a widescreen video mode and a night shooting mode. There are three preset shooting modes: sports, sunrise and sunset, twilight.
| Matrix type | CCD |
| Matrix | 0.45 megapixel |
| Lens | 6 – 72 mm |
| Optical/digital zoom | 12x/48x |
| Viewfinder | 180000 pixels |
| Size | 39×120×159 mm |
| Weight | 1500 g |
| Permission | 640×480 |
Price: from 50,000 to 69,990 rubles.
camera Sony DCR-VX2100E
Advantages
- recording material on a memory card;
- remote control using a remote control;
- several operating modes;
- Sound editing is possible.
Flaws
- weak matrix (0.45 megapixels).
For me, professional Sony video cameras are the standard of video equipment, so I buy them exclusively. I bought the DCR-VX2100E a very long time ago and it is still in service, it has probably proven its worth 500 times. The device is convenient and not capricious, it takes pictures at any time of the year in equally good quality. I recommend!
Panasonic HC-X1
A high-quality professional Panasonic video camera will allow you to film in 4K format. It is available in several video formats (AVCHD, MOV, MP4) and photographs in JPEG format. The technology supports automatic and manual focusing.
Powered by a 5900 mAh battery, which allows battery life up to 6.5 hours. Equipped with a rotating touch screen with a diagonal of three and a half inches. Image stabilization and powerful zoom ensure that individual parts of the picture are enlarged.
| Matrix type | MOS |
| Matrix | 9.46 megapixels |
| Lens | 8.8 – 176 mm |
| Zoom | 20x/10x |
| Viewfinder | 1152000 px |
| Shooting resolution | 4096×2160 |
| Dimensions | 346×195×173 mm |
| Weight | 2000 g |
Price range: from 229,990 to 249,990 rubles.
Panasonic HC-X1 camera
Advantages
- 4K video recording;
- support for SDHC, SDXC memory cards;
- six and a half hours of operation without recharging;
- A five-axis electronic stabilizer is installed.
Flaws
- not found.
The best professional video camera I've ever used. Panasonic surprised me with the quality of shooting in any conditions; even with active movement, the picture is accurate, and the colors are bright and not washed out. It’s a pity, I can’t afford to buy such a device, but in general the equipment is simply top-notch.
Canon XC15
The compact size and light weight of the Canon professional video camera body allows for discrete shooting with a resolution of 12 MP, ISO sensitivity up to 20,000 and 10x zoom.
The housing has XLR connectors with independent audio channels, which allows you to connect additional professional audio equipment. The equipment has internal memory where you can record high-quality videos in 4K, UHD and FullHD formats.
| Maximum resolution | 3840×2160 |
| Matrix type | CMOS |
| Matrix | 13.36 megapixels |
| Lens Focus | 8.9 – 89 mm |
| Optical Zoom | 10x |
| Dimensions | 128×106×122 mm |
| Weight | 955 g |
Average price: from 85,500 to 180,858 rubles.
camera Canon XC15
Advantages
- support for CF, SD, SDHC, SDXC memory cards up to 128 GB;
- 4K video recording;
- ability to connect audio equipment;
- small dimensions are convenient for transportation (128×106×122 mm).
Flaws
- There is no viewfinder.
When you get acquainted with the Canon XC15 camera, its ease of use is captivating. The menu is not overloaded, the user modes are clear, the body and controls are ascetic and do not require great skills to master. The auto mode is quite functional, and in any unclear situation you can safely use it. The price for such pleasure is quite affordable.
Canon XF305
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The equipment will certainly appeal to everyone who is looking for equipment that produces images of unsurpassed quality. This model uses the MPEG-2 Full HD recording codec, which provides twice the color resolution of HDV.
Manufacturers have included customization options in the camcorder, increasing its flexibility and versatility. Owners can use up to 26 custom picture settings, controlling more than 50 parameters.
| Matrix technology | CMOS |
| Matrix | 2.37 megapixels |
| Optical zoom | 18x |
| Lens Range | 4.1 – 73.8 mm |
| Viewfinder | 1550000 pixels |
| Shooting resolution | 1920×1080 |
| Weight | 2700 g |
| Dimensions | 394×192×180 mm |
Approximate price: from 312,409 to 312,990 rubles.
camera Canon XF305
Advantages
- additional connection of audio equipment;
- the ability to work together with multiple cameras;
- a large number of user settings (26 pcs);
- recording on CF, SD, SDHC memory cards is provided.
Flaws
- not found.
Professional video cameras with Full HD recording format have proven themselves excellent during work in the studio and on the road when it was necessary to film outdoors. The settings allow you to adapt to any conditions at any time of the day or night, the picture is always bright and clear. You don’t need to figure out the controls for a long time, everything is simple here. I recommend!
Canon XA40
A compact and convenient camera with the ability to record videos in formats up to 4K. Equipped with rewritable built-in memory media and two slots for additional memory. Features include infrared night photography and widescreen video.
An electronic stabilizer will smooth out the picture in case of shaking. To make your video even more interesting, the manufacturer has added the ability to work in accelerated and slow motion modes. The footage can be previewed on a three-inch LCD display.
| Dimensions | 182×84×109 mm |
| Weight | 730 g |
| Working resolution | 3840×2160 |
| Viewfinder | 1560000 pixels |
| Focal length | 29.3 – 601 mm |
| Matrix | 21.14 megapixels |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Approximation | 20x |
Price tag: from 115,500 to 142,990 rubles.
camera Canon XA40
Advantages
- ability to shoot in white and green modes;
- infrared photography in dark conditions;
- receiving a 4K image;
- there is fast and slow motion;
- five-axis stabilization;
- support SD, SDHC, SDXC.
Flaws
- not detected.
I had to buy a professional video camera relatively recently, because my friends and I decided to get serious about our video blog. On the advice of experts, we chose the Kenon XA40. We all liked the device, without exception, for its capabilities for all occasions, now even less time is spent on editing. The device is convenient, not heavy, and the memory lasts for a long time. Great stuff!
Panasonic AG-AC30
The video camera is equipped with a 1/3 1” BSI MOS matrix, which allows you to shoot video in Full HD format with a resolution of 1920x1080. Provides optical stabilization, focusing, exposure and white balance.
Comfortable operation is facilitated by a 3-inch touch screen with a rotating design and viewfinder. The device is equipped with a two-channel audio system with a stereo microphone and a built-in speaker. There are also interfaces XLR, AV, USB, HDMI, microUSB. The power of the built-in battery is 2900 mAh.
| Maximum resolution | 1920×1080 |
| Sensor type | M.O.S. |
| Matrix | 6.03 megapixels |
| Focus | 4.08 – 81.6 mm |
| Optical/digital zoom | 20x/10x |
| Viewfinder | 1555000 pixels |
| Size | 335×170×170 mm |
| Weight | 1500 g |
Prices: from 80,700 to 149,500 rubles.
camera Panasonic AG-AC30
Advantages
- connecting additional equipment;
- ports for connecting two memory cards at once (SD, SDHC, SDXC formats);
- built-in optical stabilizer.
Flaws
- no built-in memory.
I consider Panasonic video cameras for professional shooting to be the optimal solution; here the price exactly matches the quality. You can't go wrong. AG-AC30 is just a representative of such technology. Build quality, ease of use and excellent shooting results for little money. It’s a pity that the stabilizer is not digital, but this is no longer a disadvantage, but rather a wish.
Sony DSR-PD175
At the time of its release, the professional handheld camera was the best in the entire product line, according to the manufacturer itself. Sony's G Lens uses unique camcorder-optimized optical technology that complements advanced image processing technology to deliver exceptional performance and enhanced shooting capabilities.
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Features include a 25p progressive scan mode, slow-motion recording with smooth motion, and up to six independent profiles for different camera modes.
| Sensor | CMOS |
| Matrix | 1.04 megapixels |
| Focal length | 4.1 – 82 mm |
| Zoom optical | 20x |
| Viewfinder | 1226880 px |
| Permission | 640×480 |
| Weight | 2700 g |
| Dimensions | 169×188×401 mm |
Approximate cost: from 113,900 to 113,980 rubles.
camera Sony DSR-PD175
Advantages
- support for recording to a memory card;
- high-quality optical stabilizer;
- widescreen video mode;
- six settings profiles.
Flaws
- low matrix resolution (1.04 megapixels).
I used this thing once and it took great pictures. A little heavy, but you can always mount it on a tripod and control it with the remote control. The impressions were extremely positive. The controls are simple, the video quality is good and the assembly is at a high level. I don't remember it ever breaking. Cool technology.
Sony PXW-Z280
Featuring a completely redesigned trio of 1/2" 4K CMOS sensors with impressive depth of field and world-class performance - the latest in 4K HDR video production.
It's designed to suit any workflow, with Face Detection AF for sharp images and HLG and S-Log3 for incredible HDR performance. The manufacturer has equipped the device with a two-channel cellular connection, so you can immediately broadcast the captured content to major online platforms.
| Matrix | 8 megapixels |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Shooting resolution | 3840×2160 |
| Lens Focus | 5.6 – 95.2 mm |
| Optical zoom | 17x |
| Viewfinder | 2360000 pixels |
| Weight | 2600 g |
| Dimensions | 426×202×178 mm |
Cost range: from 580,800 to 815,760 rubles.
camera Sony PXW-Z280
Advantages
- the ability to share videos regardless of location;
- video content in 4K format;
- recording to a memory card is implemented;
- accurate OLED viewfinder.
Flaws
- not found.
A stunning professional camcorder with Ultra HD recording and many significant improvements. I've had the opportunity to work with this technique a couple of times and I'm delighted. Sony knows how to surprise! Essentially, this is a portable studio; initially, with the correct setup, ideal videos are obtained that can be immediately transferred to the Internet. Technology - space!
Sony HDR-FX1000E
This professional camera stands out primarily for its media - miniDV cassettes as the main one and a Memory Stick as an additional one, as well as an impressive set of connectors, including advanced S-Video and IEEE 1394.
The lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.8 provides an optical magnification of 20x and has a built-in image stabilizer, and a triple 1/3″ matrix allows you to shoot high-quality video, incl. and in night mode. It is also worth noting the display: with a 3.2″ diagonal, it has a resolution of 912 thousand pixels.
| Matrix | 1.12 megapixels |
| Sensor | CMOS |
| Permission | 144×1080 |
| Focus | 4.1 – 82 mm |
| Optical zoom | 20x |
| Viewfinder | 1126000 pixels |
| Weight | 2100 g |
| Dimensions | 349×178×169 mm |
Average prices: from 99,915 to 99,990 rubles.
Sony HDR-FX1000E camera
Advantages
- possibility of remote control;
- widescreen photo and video mode;
- work with MS, MS Duo memory cards;
- connecting audio devices.
Flaws
- the matrix is only 1.12 megapixels.
I have been working with this camera for more than 8 years and have no plans to change. Many people complain about cassettes, but I consider them a more reliable medium, especially since inserting an additional flash drive is not difficult. A professional camera, the price of which is not at all overpriced and corresponds to the product. The device is wonderful, if anything happens, I will definitely take the same one.
Panasonic AG-AC160
A professional-grade camera with all the necessary features. Supports video recording in Full HD resolution with the Pre-Rec function, which allows you not to miss the right moment. Recording is carried out on SD memory cards; there are two slots for them.
The fast lens has an optical magnification of 22x, the matrix size is 1/3″. The external display is complemented by a color viewfinder. The set of ports, in addition to traditional HDMI and IEEE 1394, includes SDI video output. High-quality optical stabilization ensures smooth shooting without jerking or shaking.
| Permission | 1920×1080 |
| Sensor | M.O.S. |
| Matrix | 2.20 megapixels |
| Zoom optical/digital | 22x/10x |
| Focus distance | 28 – 616 mm |
| Viewfinder | 1226000 pixels |
| Weight | 2400 g |
| Size | 438×195×180 mm |
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Cost: from 98,000 to 110,000 rubles.
camera Panasonic AG-AC160
Advantages
- remote control of the device;
- works with SD, SDHC, SDXC memory cards;
- wide format shooting;
- High-quality image stabilization.
Flaws
- not detected.
An excellent camera, in no way inferior to more expensive models. I was immediately pleased with the build quality, everything is securely fastened, does not wobble or creak. Filming is also at a high level. I read that sometimes there is a firmware bug, but this problem has passed me and I still (about three years) use it without problems. In my opinion, the camera is excellent, take it, you won’t regret it.
Where to start choosing a camera
In order to choose a device that suits your needs, first of all, you need to set priorities and indicate the amount you are willing to spend on a video camera. Often people who do not have a “base” immediately buy an expensive camera, the potential of which not only cannot be revealed, but they do not even understand. This is a big mistake, since you need to choose a device based on your personal preferences, experience and requirements. For recreational and amateur photography, a phone may be enough, but for professional commercial use you need an expensive camera from 50-100 thousand and accessories for at least the same amount. Once you decide on your priorities and budget, the choice becomes limited.
The best 4k video cameras for amateur and semi-professional levels
The FDR AX 700 model from Sony belongs to the flagship category at a price of 140 thousand rubles. The EXMOS RS 1.0 multilayer matrix with 4K support is responsible for shooting. In most older models, the module is much worse. The operator is provided with a huge number of settings, recording material in XAVC 5 and AVCHD with a bitrate of up to 100 Mbit per second for 4K Ultra. Wide-angle lens 29 mm with 20x zoom, matrix with a resolution of 14 MP.
The disadvantages are the dimensions and weight (almost 1 kg without battery).
The HC-VX980 camera from Panasonic stands out for its price-quality ratio (40 thousand rubles). Lens from LEICA with coated optics and a sensor with a resolution of 8MP 1/2.3' from BSI. Smooth zoom with support for panoramic shooting, display of the object in dynamics and stabilization of already acquired material.
How difficult is it to shoot and work with video?
This requires certain knowledge and experience. It’s quite easy to get started, the equipment is now available, there are plenty of guides and courses on the Internet. You need to understand that buying a video camera and filming itself is only half the battle. You will need to process the video, for this you will need a modern powerful computer, and the process itself will be facilitated by accessories that also need to be selected and purchased (we are talking about lenses, fast flash drives, additional batteries, microphones, etc., etc.). Many people, having spontaneously bought a camera, even an expensive one, without understanding its specifics, very quickly face a lack of experience and expensive equipment is sent to gather dust on the shelf. So, the most important thing at the start is to understand the technical aspect and gain experience, and not to chase the most expensive equipment.
Best Action Cameras
Action cameras have become a huge industry, and they now offer many useful features beyond just recording videos on the go.
Introduction!
In today's review of new street surveillance cameras in 4K 8.0Mpix resolution.
The time has come when video cameras with a resolution of 2 Mpix FULL-HD became the low segment of surveillance cameras - the updated next-generation video surveillance solution offers surveillance cameras with a resolution of up to 8Mpix, which is characterized as a high-definition video surveillance solution for today's reality.
The best video camera in terms of light sensitivity in its class
We compare video cameras with a Sony CMOS 1/2.8″ IMX 415: 8Mpix sensor and an optical size CMOS sensor 1/1.8″ PureCel®Plus-S : 8Mpix OmniVision.
Incoming next-generation video cameras are equipped with high-aperture image sensors and allow for visualization in low-light environments that is two or more times superior to previously released surveillance cameras.
The latest development of the 8 MP surveillance camera under consideration has a new 8Mpix CMOS image sensor Sony STARVIS IMX 415 UHD 8MP , which uses new photosensitive technology from the developer SONY CMOS STARVIS technology of the reverse side of pixel illumination with a new pixel architecture.
The 8MP image sensor used in the camera is CMOS IMX 415, the optical sensor size is 1/2.8″.
The second camera being reviewed today uses an image sensor with a larger optical area of 1/1.8″ OmniBSI CMOS 8MP image sensor, while the CMOS IMX 415 is inferior in light sensitivity to the 8 Mpix image sensor 1/1.8″ OmnIBSI. The Omnivison company also offers new solutions - photosensitive image sensors with the reverse side of the pixel illumination of the OmniBSI technology.
Both photosensitive technologies are similar in the principles of constructing a new type of image sensor architecture that uses reverse-side pixel backlight technology. Which made it possible to increase the light sensitivity of the latest surveillance cameras by two or more times in comparison with the previously used frontal type of illumination of the image sensor pixel.
Both solutions have a resolution of 3840X2160 4K Ultra HD.
* Image processing is performed by a Fullhan Microelectronics processor or DSP NVP, since the line contains both solutions for both image sensors. The software on the DSP FH has more advanced settings and features, including manual shutter control and HDR functionality.
**Consideration of the issue of the material of camera bodies and IR illuminator will not be discussed in this article, since this is a secondary and not a fundamental fact.
TOP professional video cameras costing from 50 thousand rubles
INSTA360 PRO
The Chinese company Insta offers a unique video camera in the professional segment. Its cost is around 330 thousand rubles. It is presented in an unusual form. Supports shooting in 8K format.
You can immediately shoot 360 degrees. It includes 4 cameras that create an 8K image in a photo or video. You can stream content to YouTube directly from the camera in 4K format.
You can stitch 4K video in hardware and automatic modes. But for 8K you need to work on a PC. These rules do not apply to photographs.
The complete set from the manufacturer is presented in a massive case. There is a rubber bandage for the lenses. Without equipment, the power key remains, and therefore it is better not to carry the camera in a bag, it is possible that you can easily put it into operation. This will lead to the realization that the camera has discharged to zero.
CANON XF405
Compact professional device. Allows you to record video in 4K format at high frame rates. The price is slightly lower than the above model - 250 thousand rubles.
The gadget may be compact in size, but it has all the input and output interfaces. Everything is thought out to the smallest detail, and therefore shooting can be carried out under any parameters specified by the operator.
Recording is carried out on SD cards. There may be several of them. This reduces the risk of data loss if controllers fail.
The top handle can be removed using a screw. It is possible to connect external sound sources using XLR audio inputs, of which there are 2 at once.
There is a remote control for fine adjustment of levels. In the area of the front part of the handle there is a transparent window, which has infrared illumination, allowing for night photography.
PANASONIC HC-VXF1
The camera costs around 55 thousand rubles. The device is very reliable and has impressive technical characteristics. Installing the battery is very simple - one click and you're done. There is a slot for connecting charging, it is hidden in the area of the side of the case. There is also a jack for connecting a headset. The niche is hidden due to a retractable “door”.
The camera connects to power banks without any problems. To shoot video in 4K format, 8.57 resolution is used, but only 8.29 are active.
TOP amateur cameras in the budget segment
PANASONIC HC-V270
The Japanese manufacturer offers a high-quality camera. It tops the list of best camcorders in 2021 and deservedly so. Its distinctive feature is the 50x zoom optics. The cost of the camera is around 18 thousand rubles. It is small in size and sits very comfortably in your hands. The battery will last several hours without charging.
The video is shot in Full HD format, the matrix size is weak, but this does not affect the good quality of the video. There is support for Wi-Fi and NFC, which allows you to quickly set up contact with a smartphone.
Users also like the 5-axis hand shake system, video stabilization, and radio nanny. The only disappointment is the small screen; managing settings in the menu is not very convenient.
The focal length is quite short. But it’s suitable for those people who shoot videos for fun and are not interested in technical techniques.
CANON LEGRIA HF R806
A distinctive feature of the development of Japanese engineers is the slow motion option. At the same time, the user has a large selection of modes. Despite all the advantages, the camera weighs a little - 200 grams, and you can buy it for 16 thousand rubles. Isn’t it a wonderful set to deservedly enter the TOP rating of the best devices of the year.
The 3.28 megapixel matrix is quite decent for an inexpensive budget device. The quality of the pictures is good, but you need excellent lighting. In the dark the quality drops greatly.
The disadvantages end there. Overall, the device has a good battery life of 3 hours. It is convenient in practice and focuses on the subject very quickly when shooting.
PANASONIC HC-V380
The rating continues with another development from Japan with a maximum optical zoom of 50x and the presence of Wi-Fi options and remote control using the device. The cost for all these bonuses is 18 thousand rubles.
The manufacturer pays a lot of attention to photo quality. The stabilizer proved to be excellent in practice. Users like the clear screen and ease of use of the menu.
JVC EVERIO GZ-R495
A good video camera equipped with a waterproof housing. With its help you can shoot even underwater. Users also like its autonomous characteristics. The camera will work on one charge underwater for about 1 hour, and in normal mode – 5 hours. Its cost is around 20 thousand rubles. Many divers have purchased it and recommend it to others. And with its help, you no longer have to be afraid of shooting in the pouring rain.
It is worth noting that the video camera will withstand frost of -10 degrees, snow and bad weather. There are 4 GB of built-in memory. The optical magnification is 40x, which is a good indicator for this category of devices. The camera does not weigh much and has a clear interface.
Sony Camcorders
Sony PXW-Z150
The model will be an ideal choice for a videographer of any level, both a professional and someone just starting out in the field of modern video art. The camcorder copes well with any, even the most complex tasks, allowing the operator to fully realize his wildest creative ideas.
Price: 215,000 rubles
Sony PXW-Z190
The manufacturer created this model specifically for true connoisseurs of high-quality video material. The camcorder has received improved technical characteristics, plus the latest innovative technologies in hardware. The device has compact dimensions and a convenient, simple interface.
Price: 365,000 rubles
Sony HXR-NX200E
The model has incorporated all the latest trends and technologies in the field of video image formation. Precisely selected, maximally balanced technical parameters, high-quality optics, a clear and simple interface, the ability to shoot in all modern formats - all this allows the user to use the limitless possibilities of modern innovative technologies.
Price: 146,600 rubles
Sony FDR-AX700
The powerful professional content of the model is combined with maximum ease of use. A video camera from the largest manufacturer is suitable for any genre of modern video art. This is an excellent assistant for a video blogger and a professional reporting tool.
Price: 107,000 rubles
Whichever video camera you choose from those presented, you will be satisfied with the results of the shooting.
Take care in advance about additional accessories: a tripod, remote control, a special case for transportation, suitable memory cards, and so on. As an advertisement
Video camera specifications
In technical reviews you can find many parameters according to which devices are categorized as amateur or professional. It's easy to get confused when trying to understand them. In fact, you can evaluate the quality and capabilities of a camera much easier - focusing on its cost. The only rule applies here: the more expensive, the better and more perfect.
But it is important to understand that the best video cameras for shooting video, which are chosen, for example, by professional cameramen and used to work on films, can have a price tag of 1 million rubles. For amateur use, such “harvesters” are not needed. It is worth focusing on the cost of up to 150 thousand rubles. And here the models are conventionally divided into categories.
- Up to 5-6 thousand rubles. There is no point in buying such a device. Even a smartphone with the most mediocre characteristics will shoot video no worse.
- Up to 12 thousand rubles. Within these limits, you can find a simple camera for those who just want to try their hand at shooting video or do not have special requirements for its quality. Such a device will have a minimum of functions and not very reliable software image stabilization. It can only be equipped with a tiny matrix, which will provide more or less decent picture quality only outdoors and only in bright daylight.
- 15-20 thousand rubles. Within these limits, you can find models with good optics, built-in memory of good capacity, zoom to bring the picture closer, and, possibly, an input for connecting a microphone. But you shouldn’t expect “miracles” here either. Experts advise not to be led by the desire to save money, but to add a little and choose a device from a higher price category.
- 30-40 thousand rubles. This is the bare minimum that allows you to purchase a good amateur camera. Its equipment will be decent, the shooting capabilities will be varied, the stabilization will be high-quality, and the optics will allow you to shoot objects both far and close.
Fact. Video cameras in the price segment starting from 50 thousand rubles are equipped with a viewfinder. It helps the operator to work comfortably in sunny weather and adjust the image capture not on a glare external screen, but using a special convenient lens.
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Models priced at 50-150 thousand rubles can be classified as semi-professional. Their technical capabilities are wider and their equipment is more technologically advanced. They allow you not only to capture a high-quality picture, but also to work with different plans in different lighting conditions, preserve surround “three-dimensional” sound, automatically focus on objects and offer many opportunities for manual settings. To use such a device, you need experience and understanding of the video filming process, then it will become a useful tool for the operator.
