What is the best DSLR camera for video? Right now, the answer to the question of what is the best DSLR camera for video depends on the type of video you are recording. Are you a beginner? Learn more here.
Well, mark everything you’ve just read on a sheet of paper, roll it up and throw it in the trash – it’s absolutely false that a camera that can take perfect photos is just as flawless in videos.
Of course, there is no shortage of examples of devices that achieve excellent results in both fields, but if there are cameras and video cameras separately, there will be a reason.
For several years, this is also true, manufacturers have been moving towards the creation of “hybrid” devices capable of performing both functions (shooting and shooting) and with similar results, even if at a professional level this dichotomy still remains today: this is why it is essential to understand how to choose the best DSLR for video right away, avoiding unpleasant surprises after a more or less hasty purchase.
Find a good summary of what are the characteristics to be evaluated for the purchase of a reflex camera in my ranking on the best reflex on the market: most of them also apply to the choice of a reflex for video, to which other features must be added. which I speak to you now.
Let’s start right from the beginning: the data coming from the photographic sensor are processed through an image processor, the performance of which depends on the video processing capacity of the reflex and, therefore, the maximum resolution.
Please note that, in reality, the resolution also and above all depends on the number of megapixels of the photographic sensor, but as for the videos, the contribution of the processor is essential: a good sensor, for example, flanked by a decent processor, You can run high-resolution video, but only at low frame rates.
In general, even an inexpensive video reflex camera should be able to record in FullHD at 60 fps: at higher resolutions, such as 4K, even 30 fps may be enough, also because only the most expensive reflex cameras have the hardware capability of work at 60 fps with resolutions higher than FullHD.
Having a high frame rate means having a fluid video but, also, being able to work with effects such as Slow Motion, which perform well only if there are a minimum number of frames per second.
The fluidity of the video then depends on the autofocus of the reflex, that is the system that allows you to focus on the subjects portrayed: in the case of videos, it is essential to have dynamic autofocus that, on the one hand, is able to keep in focus for a long time. the chosen element, on the other hand, allows you to change focus quickly.
Although this is a fairly technical aspect, it is not difficult to choose when buying: many reflex cameras, among the characteristics, specify that they have an autofocus system capable of keeping even fast-moving subjects in focus.
Best DSLR Camera for Video
Nikon D780
The Nikon D780 is a very advanced reflex camera, an updated model that brings with it some interesting new features, such as the ability to shoot in 4K.
This Nikon for video is based on a 24.5 Megapixel Full-Frame CMOS FX sensor. The quality is the same offered by the more expensive Nikon Z6, with here the D780 also shares the flat profiles. It is possible to shoot in 4K up to 30 frames per second, while in FullHD you reach 120 fps, also suitable for Slow Motion.
In both cases, the videos convince even the most critics, with a great amount of detail and fast and precise autofocus. Shooting videos with the reflex becomes intuitive and natural, thanks also to the easy-access controls and automatic face tracking. The Autofocus module is the Advanced Multi-CAM 3500 II, the same that Nikon adopts on top of the range reflex cameras.
This best Nikon DSLR is resistant to dust and humidity thanks to special gaskets that allow it to be used even in the most extreme environments. You can find it for sale on Amazon.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
If you are not interested in shooting videos in 4K the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is the right DSLR for you. A high-end model is offered at a very competitive price, with the only limitation of recording as the maximum resolution in FullHD.
The sensor is a 26.2 Megapixel Full Frame: the dimensions are however small, like a classic APS-C reflex, and the body seems to be very resistant. Excellent ISO sensitivity, which with expansion reaches ISO 102400, revealing itself also suitable for photos and videos with very little light.
This Canon video DSLR is equipped with a 3-inch swivel touchscreen display, as well as an intelligent optical viewfinder with 98% coverage. The Autofocus system has 45 cross points and is extremely reliable in use. Undoubtedly among the best video cameras, it is available on Amazon.
Panasonic Lumix GH5S
The Panasonic Lumix GH5S is the best DSLR for those who want to shoot videos in 4K. Designed for videomakers and filmmakers, this DSLR features a pre-installed V-LogL video recording function that guarantees shooting with a wide dynamic color range, ideal for reproducing color nuances correctly.
There is a LINE input supported by a 3.5 jack that allows you to connect a microphone to input sound from an external audio device.
Among the functions that characterize the Lumix GH5S, there is the internal recording 4: 2: 2 10 bit that allows you to reproduce all the details without the bands that are generally present at 8 bits.
It is possible to do internal recording to an SD card and at the same time feed the signal through the HDMI port to view the recording on an external recorder or on a connected monitor.
The reflex is characterized by the innovative sensor improved thanks to the Dual Native ISO technology and the Venus Engine processor, which guarantee high sensitivity with low noise levels.
The sensor allows the management of multiple aspect ratios, to be chosen according to the needs between 4: 3, 17: 9, 16; 9, and 3: 2, while preserving the focal length. Videos are saved in C4K / 4K 60p / 50p format.
Among the effects supported by this professional reflex is the VFR function that allows you to create slow-motion or quick motion videos in C4K / 4K quality up to 60fps or in Full HD up to 240fps.
The Lumix GH5S supports WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity and allows you to save photos in JPEG and RAW format, while videos are saved in $ K 60p / 50p cinema format. The swiveling touch screen display allows you to quickly select settings and keep them under control while recording.
CANON EOS 90D
The EOS 90DS is one of the best Canon for video. It has a great set of features for both video vlogging and documentary and event shooting and is also a great ally for high-resolution photography.
The 4k video is of good quality, however, the level of detail is not on par with other apps-c cameras that perform oversampling, so expect a slightly lower definition than a mirrorless camera like the Sony a6400.
For Full HD video, the quality is excellent (better than the a6400), and in this mode, we will be able to film in slow motion up to 120 fps with exceptionally qualitative results (at 120 fps you will have a slight crop equal to 1.2x).
The autofocus system works very well for video (via the screen), the EOS 90D tracks human subjects smoothly and follows movement to keep the person being filmed in focus. It cannot recognize animal subjects, so in this case, we recommend abandoning the face-recognition function and setting the focus manually by touching the screen.
For vloggers, we recommend it without problems. The camera can keep the focus point glued to the subject’s eye, and the vari-angle touch screen is very convenient for this application.
There are clever and useful features like focus peaking to help us manage manual focus. However, it lacks the zebra features and log gamma profiles for recording movies with a wider dynamic range.
Canon EOS R5
It might seem like a modest upgrade over the original Z7, but this second-generation of Nikon’s mirrorless model features just enough tweaks to make it a compelling proposition.
Physically it’s very familiar, retaining the excellent form factor and handling of the Z7. Also the same is the 45.7MP full-frame sensor we raved about before, which continues to deliver sharp detail from edge to edge, as well as class-leading dynamic range. One of the key revisions is processing power: twin Expeed 6 chips serve up speedier all-round performance, with improved autofocus, including quick and reliable eye-detection AF.
Deeper buffers mean 10fps burst rates can be sustained for longer, while a pair of SD/CFexpress card slots enhance versatility. Video features have been improved, too, with internal 4K 60fps and Full HD 120fps now possible. Sure, it might not tread much new ground, but aggressive pricing adds to the appeal of the Z7 II, as does a growing catalog of Z system lenses and accessories. If you’re looking to switch from a Nikon DSLR, it’s well worth considering.
Sony A1
Remarkable in every respect, the Sony A1 is all the camera you could ever want – provided you’ve got deep pockets. Its 50.1MP full-frame sensor delivers image quality that’s second-to-none, backed up by ultra-rapid autofocus and blistering burst speeds. Besides capturing incredibly detailed high-resolution stills, it can also shoot 8K raw video at 30fps, while pro connectivity options allow for high-speed workflows. Physically, the A1 is a familiar, well-balanced blend of the best bits from Sony’s A7 and A9 series models, complemented by a 9.44-million-dot OLED EVF which more than makes up for the average screen. If you can get to grips with the slightly complex menu system, the A1’s outstanding skills set a new benchmark for mirrorless performance – whether you’re shooting studio portraits, sports action, or wildlife footage. There are specialist cameras that offer better value, but for the ultimate in full-frame versatility, the Sony A1 is top of the pile.
Sony Alpha 7 R II
The Sony Alpha 7 R II deserves to enter this ranking because it is in many ways the best video camera on the market. In fact, it’s not a DSLR.
It is in fact a mirrorless video camera, that is, without the pentaprism. This type of camera is more compact than reflex cameras and for this reason, it is often preferred by videomakers.
Its main strength is the 35 mm full-frame CMOS sensor with a backlit structure and a resolution of 42.4 Megapixels, flanked by the Bionz X image processor. in low light.
To make it perfect for video are the lightning-fast autofocus, 5-axis stabilization, and the ability to record in 4K up to 60 fps.
Sony A7R IV
The A7R IV is the studio-friendly camera in Sony’s full-frame line-up, albeit one that’s just as at home shooting action or landscapes. It has an extremely high-resolution 61-megapixel sensor, up from 42.4 megapixels in the last version. Such a high pixel count lets the camera retrieve incredible amounts of detail when mounted to a sturdy tripod, in controlled lighting. Noise predictably creeps in more quickly than in a lower-resolution full-frame model, but this is an excellent all-around camera. And while it demands careful shooting for the best results, effective stabilization means it still works well handheld. 4K video quality is great too, aside from some rolling shutter effect.
Sony A7 III
The A7 III has become a firm favorite among enthusiasts and pros these last few years, and for good reason. In contrast to the more niche A7R IV and A7S II, the A7 III is a camera for everyone, whether they shoot stills or videos, action or static subjects, indoors or out.
The sensor has a modest 24MP resolution, but its backlit design makes for better light-gathering, while the advantage of sensor-based stabilization means you don’t need to worry about this being in your lenses, which is something many other mirrorless cameras don’t have as standard.
Add to that a 710-shot battery life – impressive for a mirrorless camera – a slew of video-specific features and the EyeAF feature for tack-sharp portraits and you have yourself quite some camera, despite its relatively old age. The rumors of a Sony A7 IV successor are growing, though, so it might be wise to hold fire for now.
Nikon D500
The Nikon D500 is also part of our reflex ranking: a high-quality reflex for video, loved also and above all by those who, for work or passion, find themselves taking pictures and videos of fast-moving subjects: athletes who practice sports, cars, and motorcycles, but also animals with lightning-fast shots. It can record videos in 4K at 30 fps and, thanks to Bluetooth, is in constant connection with the smartphone. The strength of this top of the range is undoubtedly the autofocus, which boasts 153 points of which 99 are cross: needless to repeat, it is almost impossible to find a reflex capable of the same.
Also excellent are the bursts of photos, which allow you to obtain the quality of a single photo without worrying about finding the right split second, and the adjustable touchscreen display is very useful.