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Whether filmmaking or vlogging, you must find the best camcorder for your project. Camcorders might not seem like your first choice as a filmmaker. However, they come with a built-in zoom, can record sound and have higher quality video than a smartphone.

We put together this list of the best camcorders on the market, with details on the cost and key features. This list includes a range of cameras, from casual shooters to the latest 4K camcorders with high-end quality, so there is something out there for everyone.

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How to Pick the Best Camcorder?

The popular choices for filmmakers are DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. However, a camcorder has its’ benefits because it can shoot both sound and video at a high quality. This makes camcorders a great choice for vloggers, documentary filmmakers and journalists.

You can find camcorders from all the big brands, Canon, Sony and Panasonic, for beginners and professionals. These cameras also come in a range of video quality HD 4K and can deliver video ready for social media platforms or the big screen.

Before you buy a camcorder, have a few things to consider, particularly the video resolution, price and video expectations. The list below includes details on the best camcorder you can buy, with advice on cost and how to make the most of each camera.

1 Sony HDR-CX405

If you are either an amateur or a student filmmaker, then this camcorder is for you. The Sony HDR is a budget, family friendly camera that is easy to use. It comes with a 30x optical zoom, anti-handshake technology and it has edit in-camera software with Movie Maker.

It also has a USB port, making it easy to use with a PC or share on your TV screen. The camera shoots HD, and you can expect some background noise from the small sensor. However, it is the best camcorder for family videos and those on a low budget.

£200 body
Best for budget
Lightweight

2 Sony PWX-FS7 II

The Sony PXW-FS7 II is a high-performance Super 35mm camcorder that is ideal for a variety of professional video production applications, including documentaries, news, and music videos. It features a newly developed Exmor CMOS sensor that can capture 4K HDR images with stunning detail and low noise.

The camcorder also has a wide range of features that make it versatile and easy to use, such as an all-new lens mount, world-leading Electronic Auto Variable ND system, and enhanced ergonomics.

£1549 body
Best for action
Waterproof

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3 Sony FDR-AX43

Next, the best camcorder for 4K filmmakers on a budget. The Sony FDR is particularly lightweight and compact, making it perfect for travel vloggers. Despite its small size, the camera still boasts impressive features, including a low noise sensor and easy to share MP4.

This camcorder is best suited for outdoor shoots as it has poor low light performance. On the plus side, it comes with a 5.1 channel microphone, which makes it perfect for video projecting. Buy this camera if you want a 4K shooter that is portable and relatively low cost.

£560 body
Best for travel
Compact

4 Canon HF G70

If you are shooting a documentary, you want a handheld camera that can fit an external audio recorder. The Canon HF G70 records 4K and has an impressive 20x optical zoom. It also has a bright 3.5 inch LCD touchscreen, making it also a great vlogging camera.

In addition, the camera has a 12 hour battery life, perfect for continuous shooting. It also has effective low light performance thanks to an improved image sensor. The only downside is that the Canon HF G70 camera is bulky and heavy compared to others on this list.

£941 body
Best for documentary
Long Battery Life

5 Canon XA60

The Canon XA60 is the best camcorder for events and concert filming. It’s a professional video camera with 4K image quality, a mic holder, and a long lasting battery pack. This durable camera is perfect for journalists, documentaries, and videographers.

It also comes with HDMI output, advanced autofocus and a 35mm Canon optical zoom lens. In addition to slow motion and advanced colour settings. However, it is a bulky camera at a high price, which might make it unsuitable for vloggers and content creators.

£1500 body
Best for Events
Durable

6 Sony FDR AX700

The Sony FDR is the best camcorder for travel and lifestyle YouTubers. Its higher price tag gets you 4K video, high quality playback and precise autofocus. It also comes with a handy rotating LED touchscreen, making it an excellent choice for professional vloggers.

The key features include slow motion setting, in camera colour grading and a built in ND filter. In other words, this is an excellent camera for intermediate filmmakers who are looking for a higher level compact camera.

£1600 body
Best For Vloggers
Compact

7 Panasonic HC-X2000

Next, we have a professional documentary interview camera that shoots in 4K 60p recording. Similar to the Canon XA60, it’s durable, making it a good choice for news and travel videographers. Features include a 25mm Leica lens and 24x optical zoom.

The Panasonic HC also has an image stabilisation. It’s a superb semi-pro camera aimed at intermediate to professional filmmakers. On the downside, the camera has complex manual features and is heavy which means you might need to use a camera tripod.

£1800 body
Best for Interviews
Semi-Pro

8 Sony HXR-NX80

The best camcorder for professionals aims towards news and television broadcasts. If you are a journalist or news camera operator, this Sony camera has all the features you need. It’s a 4K camcorder with a highly detailed image, mic holder and touchscreen LCD monitor.

Despite all the features, it has a relatively small body and is lightweight, making it also useful for documentary and wildlife shooting. However, it is an advanced camera with manual settings, making it best only for professionals with previous broadcast experience.

£3000 body
Best for Broadcast
Professional

Rent a Camcorder on Scouty

Rent the best camcorders and other equipment for photo shoots and filming on Scouty. Get in touch with our top lenders and book equipment in minutes.

Explore Camcorders