In case you have got a very tight budget to buy a video camera, you are in the right place. The best vlogging camera for under 300 bucks will let you capture full HD videos easily.
Today I will be reviewing some cheap budget vlogging cameras for people who aren’t able to invest a large amount of money in order to make their first vlog.
Before I move further, you should know that some issues will be common in these cameras such as the unavailability of an external mic port and an inability to make 4K videos.
You know that answer to this problem as well because it is only 300 bucks, everything cannot get perfect.
But as we go further, if you don’t know the essentials of making a perfect vlog, do give a read to this guide. And for a straightforward path in vlogging, take a look at the vlogging tips shared by professional vloggers,
Well, let’s take a look at the list of the top 10 best vlogging cameras under 300 dollars.
Table of Contents
- Best Vlogging Camera Under 300
- 1. Nikon COOLPIX B500 - Best Vlogging Camera with Flip Screen Under 300
- 2. GoPro HERO8 Black - Best 4K Action Camera Under 300
- 3. DJI Osmo Pocket - Best Cheap Vlogging Camera for The Money
- 4. Canon PowerShot SX620 - Best Vlogging Camera With W-Fi
- 5. PANASONIC LUMIX FZ80 - Best Vlogging Camera With 4K Videos
- 6. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 – Best Vlogging Camera for Beginners
- 7. Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K – Best Budget Vlogging Camera Under 300
- 8. Canon PowerShot SX540 – With Wireless Connectivity
- 9. Canon PowerShot SX530 – Complete Camera Bundle Under 300
- 10. Kodak PIXPRO Astro – Best Vlogging Camera under 150
- Top 3 Recommendations
- How to select a Best Vlogging Camera in Low Budget?
- Summary
Best Vlogging Camera Under 300
1. Nikon COOLPIX B500 - Best Vlogging Camera with Flip Screen Under 300
The first and best vlogging camera under 300 bucks that I had used as my first video blogging camera is Nikon Coolpix B500. The features of this vlogging camera are very attractive and compelling at the same time.
Just In: Best Gimbals for Vlogging Cameras
Nikon Coolpix B500 is surely giving tough competition to vlogging cameras that cost a huge fortune. The reason it remained the best choice for me for many years is its ability to capture full HD 1080p videos easily.
So, let’s talk about some of its features in detail below:
Technical Features:
CMOS Sensor:
As we have discussed earlier, you will find only upgraded CMOS sensors in a 300$ budget. The same is the case with Nikon Coolpix B500 as this camera has got 16 megapixels updated BSI CMOS sensor for capturing bright and high contrasting photos.
Optical and Dynamic Zoom:
Not only does the camera offers to capture vivid photos and videos, but it has also got a whopping 40x optical zooming ability which is just more than enough for many travel vloggers. The dynamic zoom is 80x which allows you to focus on distant objects easily.
Flip Screen:
The best vlogging camera under 300 has got a flip screen as well. The 3″ LCD is tiltable to many degrees both up and down. You can easily make selfie videos with the flip screen and along with that can change the options of the camera.
Full HD Videos:
The reason for liking this camera so much is, it offers full HD 1080p video quality at a steady 30 fps rate. This feature is very rare in a cheap vlogging camera with a flip screen but you can easily find it in Sony Coolpix B500. With Full HD video mode, your vlogs will look more professional than ever.
Wireless Connectivity:
Along with durable construction, the cheap vlogging camera also comes with essential wireless connectivity features. You can enjoy both Bluetooth and wireless on this video camera for easy video and photo sharing.
Downfalls:
Although I haven’t faced any real downfall from this camera. The only thing which is missing in this camera is 4K video quality feature which in my opinion is not necessary if you are in the initial phase of your vlogging career.
Pros:
- 16MP CMOS sensor
- Ideal for making high-quality vlogs
- Provides 1080p video quality
- 3″ large flip screen
- Affordable price
- Compact and stylish design
Cons:
- No 4K video recording
- Not for professionals
Final Views:
Nikon Coolpix B500 is the best vlogging camera under 300 with the ability to make full HD 1080p videos at a steady fps rate. This camera should be on your priority list if you are in the initial stage of your vlogging journey.
2. GoPro HERO8 Black - Best 4K Action Camera Under 300
GoPro Hero 8 Black is actually an action vlogging camera and is meant for action vloggers as well. The best vlogging camera under 300 dollars has got the ability to capture stunning 4K video shots at a very steady fps rate.
The camera is my favorite partner whenever I have to go to places where there is water like beeches or rivers etc. The durable construction and ideal size will amaze you whenever you are showcasing an action stunt.
Let’s have an overview of some key features that this cheap action camera comes with:
Technical Features:
4K Video Mode:
The best vlogging camera under 300 has got 4K video quality. You will be able to capture life in Ultra HD mode at a steady 60 fps rate as well. For photos, the 12MP image sensor is available as well. 4K video mode adds more brightness and contrast to your action stunts.
Durable Construction:
The camera is durable. It has got premium quality materials which will allow you to use it as you want. The waterproofing ability is also amazing. If you want to make videos underwater, GoPro hero 8 should be the choice for you for 300$.
Time-Lapse Mode:
Another specialty in this action camera that has amazed me a lot is the availability of stunning time-lapse mode. The best vlogging camera does come with time-lapse intervals of 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, and 60 seconds which will eventually create a perfect time-lapse video.
Basic Video Editing:
Hero 8 has also got the ability to do basic video editing within the camera easily. You can preview and playback your captured shots, trim the video footage, change the settings of the footage, and can use other functions easily as you are using this camera.
Wireless Connection:
As an action vlogging camera, wireless connectivity is necessary for firmware updates and sharing photos and videos instantly. That’s why the best vlogging camera under 300 has got Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to offer easy video sharing.
Downfalls:
There are no basic issues in the vlogging camera from my perception. However, many other users have complained about the battery which drains fast. To avoid battery issues, you should go for spare batteries to make sure that you never run out of power while using GoPro hero 8.
Pros:
- 4K video recording at 60FPS
- Time-Lapse videos
- Ideal for capturing action shots
- Durable and waterproof
Cons:
- Battery drains fast
Final Views:
GoPro Hero 8 is the best vlogging camera for under 300 dollars. The features it has got are awesome. The only issue is of battery about which I have given an easy solution. So, better buy it if you are more into action sports and stunts, etc.
3. DJI Osmo Pocket - Best Cheap Vlogging Camera for The Money
The next best camera on our list is from DJI which is famous for producing cheap vlogging cameras for its customers. The best vlogging camera under 300 bucks with all its qualities and features will make sure that you can capture stunning video and photo shots easily. The reason I like this camera is it has got a very compact design. You can literally fit it in your pocket without any inconvenience.
Some of the technical features offered by DJI Osmo Pocket are as follows:
Technical Features:
Wireless Connection:
Talking about the very basic initials, the best vlogging camera comes with a built-in Wi-Fi connection so that you may face no issues while sharing your photos and videos to other devices.
Full HD Video Quality:
Don’t underestimate this camera just because it has got a compact design. DJI Osmo Pocket is able to capture 4K videos at a steady 60fps rate to help you in making stunning vlogs for your audience. Ultra HD video mode, however, consumes battery at a higher rate.
Front Screen:
With a large front-facing touchscreen you will be in full control of the camera. This camera is one of its kind with a rotatable Gimbal camera instead of a rotatable screen. So, with this camera, you don’t need to worry about a flip screen.
In-built Gimbal:
One of the best features that I haven’t seen in other cameras is the availability of a 3-axis in-built gimbal.
Upgraded CMOS Sensor:
The last feature that I will be talking about is the upgraded CMOS sensor. The best vlogging camera under 300 has got a stunning 12MP lens with a 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor that supports a maximum aperture of F/2.0.
Downfalls:
DJI Osmo Pocket is my choice whenever I am on travel. However, according to some users, the camera is really hard to use as they could not able to figure it out. To avoid this issue, you should give a thorough read to the user manual guide which comes with the camera.
Pros:
- Built-in Gimbal
- Built-in WiFi & USB connectivity with Phone
- Compact & sleek design
- Very affordable
- 12MP camera capable to record 4K/60FPS videos
Cons;
- Maximum apreture of F/2.0
Final Views:
DJI Osmo Pocket is one of the best vlogging cameras that you can get on an affordable budget. The cheap vlogging camera under 300 might become an ideal partner for you if you want to make regular travel video blogs.
4. Canon PowerShot SX620 - Best Vlogging Camera With W-Fi
The next vlogging camera on our list with a very affordable price range is the brand new Canon PowerShot SX620. It’s basically a new and upgraded model of SX610.
The design is as usual perfect and stylish from a vlogging point of view. Upon proper testing, I find this vlogging camera to be an ideal choice for DIY vloggers i.e. for indoor vlogs. The best vlogging camera under 300 bucks is surely a treat in such a low price range with so many upgraded features.
Let’s talk about some of its key points in detail below:
Technical Features:
Powerful Optical Zoom:
The best vlogging camera comes with a 25x optical zoom which is more than enough to zoom in on the far objects easily. Special IS technology is also used to add stabilization in your photo and video shots.
Wireless Connectivity:
With the addition to Wi-Fi, NFC connectivity has also been added in this cheap vlogging camera which is used for easy online sharing of photos and videos. You can use Wi-Fi to move your video footage to other portable devices as well.
Up to Date CMOS Sensor:
Canon PowerShot SX620 vlogging camera comes with an up-to-date CMOS sensor. The 20.2 MP sensor combined with DIGIC 4+ image processor produces stunning videos and photos in dark conditions. The CMOS sensor also brightens up your photos and videos and adds more contrast and sharpness to them as well.
Full HD Videos:
If you want to capture full HD videos with clear image quality, SX 620 is meant for you. The camera allows you to capture full HD 1080p videos at a very steady fps rate to make sure that you can add quality to your vlogs.
Flip Screen:
A cheap vlogging camera with a flip screen is very difficult to find in this budget but worry no more as SX 620 comes with a large 3.0″ Flip screen. The flip screen is not only tiltable, it is also touching and works like a charm as well.
Downfalls:
There are no probable issues from my point of view. But, every person has got his own perception and that’s why many customers have reported that the camera is unable to charge on a USB cable which is an issue to address for the manufacturer.
Pros:
- 25x powerful optical zoom
- Intelligent IS stabilization mode
- Full HD 1080p video quality
- 20.1MP CMOS sensor
- Affordable
Cons:
- No USB charging
- No function wheel
Final Views:
Canon PowerShot SX 620 is the best vlogging camera for under 300 bucks. With a lot of quality features, it has been a successful video camera so far. You should buy this video camera to experience full HD video footage and crisp photos.
5. PANASONIC LUMIX FZ80 - Best Vlogging Camera With 4K Videos
The last best vlogging camera on our list with an ideal price range is from Panasonic. You would not believe it but the camera offers UHD 4K video recording in just 300 dollars budget. Isn’t it huge? Well, it is.
By the looks of it, the best vlogging camera is ideal for capturing vivid photo and video shoots. The design is perfect and stylish as well. You can use this camera to make stunning time-lapse videos as well. The best vlogging camera under 300 is really a treat for every type of vloggers.
Some of the technical features offered by Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 are as follows:
Technical Features:
4K Video Quality:
The top of the list feature of this video blogging camera is making 4K videos and images. You can make vivid and bright video shoots as the camera offers UHD 4K quality at a very steady fps rate.
Updated Image Sensor:
With an updated image sensor comprising 18.1 megapixels, you will be able to shoot full HD videos and photos even if there is dark or lighting issues. The cheap vlogging camera with a flip screen is able to make the captured photos bright and vivid at the same time.
Optimized Lens:
Another amazing feature of this vlogging camera is the availability of an optically stabilized lens. The special DC Vario lens with a focus range of 11.81 inches allows you to concentrate on the scenario in the best possible way.
Fast Focusing System:
In case you are craving a video camera with a fast focusing system, LUMIX FZ80 should be an ideal choice for you. The best vlogging camera under 300 bucks comes with a fast and accurate focusing system in order to capture high-quality shots easily.
USB Charging:
Last but not least, the camera offers USB charging as well. USB charging is a serious downfall in many video blogging cameras but Panasonic has made it happen in FZ80 so that customers won’t feel any worries.
Downfalls:
There are no serious downfalls as from my point of view in this vlogging camera. However, some verified customers have reported issues in the sharpness of images which can be avoided with the autofocus system easily.
Pros:
- 4K videos
- 18.1MP CMOS sensor
- Optical stabilization
- USB Charging
Cons:
- Issues in sharpening images
- No other serious cons
Final Views:
Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 is finally the best vlogging camera under 300 dollars. The camera provides UHD video capturing at a very affordable rate. Better buy it before it runs out of stock.
6. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 – Best Vlogging Camera for Beginners
Well, beginners are always in need of a camera that’s easy to use, and that can take pictures and videos without any problems. That said, Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 provides the same specs and features within an affordable budget at the same time. The camera comes with a sophisticated body. Besides, the sleek and slim body helps beginner vloggers to capture vivid photos and videos with this camera easily. All in all, Canon has really impressed the low-budget peeps by introducing this camera in 2022.
Let’s head towards some of the most important features offered by the Canon vlogging camera:
Technical Features You Must Know:
1. Optical Zoom:
One of the best vlogging cameras under 300 comes with a 12x optical zoom. Such zooming capabilities allow the camera to focus on distant objects with ease.
2. Optical Image Stabilizer:
One of the reasons we love the Canon ELPH 360 is that it comes with an optical image stabilizer. In short, the videos you capture with this camera will have a reduced blurring or shaking effect for better audience retention.
3. Video and Low-Light Photography:
Last but not the least, Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 comes with 720p HD video-making capabilities. Not only that, but it also can capture beautiful low-light images as it has got a 20.2MP CMOS image sensor.
Downfalls:
The camera is perfect from all angles especially when one looks at the price tag it has got. However, the only place where it lags a little bit is its video quality which is not on par with other cameras available in the same price tag.
Pros:
- Perfect for begineer vloggers
- Offers a 720p HD video making option
- 12x optical zoom
- Image stabilization
Cons:
- No 1080p videos
- Battery drains fast
Final Views:
Canon has made everyone content with the brand new ELPH 360. The camera makes sure that you can make beautiful vlogs with it for a long time. So, better get it before it’s too late.
7. Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K – Best Budget Vlogging Camera Under 300
Panasonic is getting the spotlight among vloggers who are always in need of low-budget products to fulfill their video-making cravings. That said, the LUMIX DC-ZS70K is indeed a vlogging camera that every beginner wants. Why? Well, it merely costs around 300 bucks only. Yeah, you heard it right. Kodak is offering this camera in such a low-budget range that I don’t know if there’s any other professional camera available in the same budget.
Well, long story short, let’s head towards some of the most notable features that this camera possesses:
Technical Features You Need to Know:
1. UHD Video Quality:
You’d be able to capture the real essence of nature with the help of Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K as it offers a 4K UHD video mode. Besides, the fps rate is also stable enough to let you edit your vlogs in slow motion easily.
2. Compact and Portable:
One of the most important features that you need to know about the best vlogging camera under 300 is that it’s extremely compact and portable at the same time. So, it becomes easier for vloggers to handle it while making videos or photos.
3. LCD Screen and Battery:
Finally, a large 3” touch-screen along with a Li-on battery makes the camera a perfect choice for beginner vloggers. The battery won’t drain fast even if you’ve been making videos for a long time.
Downfalls:
As far as amateurs are concerned, this camera is a perfect vlogging tool that they can utilize. However, from a professional perspective, I won’t be recommending it to pro vloggers anytime soon.
Pros:
- 4K video recording
- Touch screen
- 20MP MOS with Optical Image Stabilization
Cons:
- No flip screen
Final Views:
Kodak PIXPRO FZ53 is the epitome of vlogging under a budget. Get this camera as soon as possible especially if you want to kick-start your vlogging career within a limited budget.
8. Canon PowerShot SX540 – With Wireless Connectivity
In need of a camera that can easily connect via different wireless options for a fast photo or video sharing process? If that’s the case, then you might be interested in taking a look at Canon PowerShot SX540. The most affordable vlogging camera has a design similar to that of a DSLR camera. However, it won’t add too much weight to your hands while you are making vlogs with it. As far as the technical specs are concerned, the camera performs exceptionally well. Wanna know how? Better check out its features as follows:
Features You Need to Know:
1. Extraordinary Optical Zoom:
An optical zoom of 50x is simply exceptional especially when the camera costs less than 300 bucks. You’d be able to focus on distant objects with this much optical zoom easily.
2. 1080p Videos:
SX540 by Canon also offers full HD 1080p video capturing quality. Hence, it is easier for intermediate vloggers to make their vlogs as beautiful as possible.
3. Wireless Connectivity:
With wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and NFC, it is easier for professional vloggers to transfer videos/photos to other devices without any hassle.
Downfalls:
To be honest, there isn’t a single issue that needs to be pointed out especially when we are talking about Canon PowerShot SX540. However, one thing that I feel should be made better is the short battery life that consumes at a higher rate while making videos on 1080p mode.
Pros:
- Full HD 1080p vodeo mode
- Perfect for intermediate vloggers
- 50x optical zoom offers better focus
- Wireless connectivity options available
- Ideal for indoor vlogging
Cons:
- Battery drains fast
- A bit bulky
Final Views:
Canon SX540 offers so many important features that it makes the work of video bloggers much easier than expected. I’d be recommending this camera to every intermediate vlogger as it is the best possible option available within a $300 budget.
9. Canon PowerShot SX530 – Complete Camera Bundle Under 300
The camera bundle we are about to discuss costs only 300 bucks and it has all important accessories available to be utilized by beginner vloggers. Yeah, I am talking about Canon SX530 which offers beautiful video capturing options for a better vlogging experience. That said, the camera isn’t alone. It has been backed by important accessories to make the bundle a perfect companion for travel and indoor vloggers.
The most important features offered by SX530 HS are as follows:
Technical Features You Must Know:
1. Full HD Video Mode:
One of the best $300 vlogging cameras offers a full HD 1080p video quality at a stable fps rate. So, making full HD videos becomes an easy job for video bloggers.
2. 50x Optical Zoom:
The 50x optical zoom feature is also amazing as it allows you to focus on distant objects without any worries.
3. Extra Accessories:
Multiple extra accessories are available within the best vlogging camera under 300 to make it a perfect option for vloggers. That said, you’d be getting tools such as a tripod, memory cards, carrying a bag along with an extra battery to enjoy your vlogging journey to the fullest.
Downfalls:
Bulkiness is where the camera fails to satisfy the vloggers. Apart from that, the camera is perfect from almost every angle.
Pros:
- Durable build
- Weather-proof design
- Full HD 1080p video mode
- Perfect for travel vlogging
- Comes with extra accessories
Cons:
- A bit bulky
Final Views:
Get the brand new Canon SX530HS as soon as possible as you won’t be getting this bundle anywhere else at such a reasonable rate.
10. Kodak PIXPRO Astro – Best Vlogging Camera under 150
We’d be wrapping up our review section with the brand new Kodak PIXPRO Astro as it falls under the category of the best vlogging cams under $300. The camera has got a sophisticated design and that’s the main reason it’s been getting popularity among famous vloggers. Besides, durable construction allows this camera to be usable for a long time.
Some of the most important features offered by Kodak vlogging camera are as follows:
Technical Features You Need to Know:
1. Optical Zoom:
The best budget vlogging camera offers a 42x optical zoom and comes with a 24mm optical lens at the same time. So, it becomes convenient for vloggers to capture distant videos without any worries.
2. 1080p Videos:
Full HD 1080p video mode is available within Kodak PIXPRO Astro which enables video bloggers to add more beautification to their vlogs.
3. Panorama Mode:
Lastly, Kodak has impressed everyone with its sophisticated panorama mode that offers video bloggers to capture aesthetic panoramas for their vlogs.
Downfalls:
Well, Kodak has disappointed me when it comes to the shape of the camera. It’s bulky and cannot be handled easily. Other than that, the battery also drains fast which is understandable considering the fact that it costs only 300 dollars.
Pros:
- Full HD 1080p video mode
- Perfect for travel vloggers
Cons:
- Bulky design
- Battery drains fast
Final Views:
Check out the latest Kodak vlogging camera if you want to enjoy capturing beautiful photos and videos without spending a lot of money.
Top 3 Recommendations
Vlogging cameras in cheap budget will sometimes offer you better features than that of those video cameras with a very high price range. That’s why I tried my best to present only those video cams that are able to provide at least full HD 1080p video quality.
So, make sure that you use your mind in finding a vlogging cam that better suits your needs and demands. In case you are still confused, I will recommend you the top 3 choices as:
- PANASONIC LUMIX FZ80 if you want to make 4K videos.
- GoPro HERO8 Black if you are an action vlogger.
- Nikon COOLPIX B500 if you are about to start your vlogging journey.
How to select a Best Vlogging Camera in Low Budget?
1. Video Quality
Video Quality is the first thing that every vlogger is keen about. There are basically three common video qualities available in vlogging cameras i.e.,
- UHD 4K video quality.
- Full HD 1080p
- HD 720p.
Now as you are tight on budget, you can get a fine video camera with full HD 1080p quality in a 300$ budget.
Some action cameras can also provide 4K video-making ability but their use is only limited to action sports.
2. CMOS Sensor
In 300$, you will be getting a perfect video blogging camera with an updated CMOS and image sensor as well.
CMOS sensor plays an important role in making your photos and videos bright and with high contrast.
That’s why many manufacturers are upgrading this sensor to make sure that you can capture high-quality images and videos in dark conditions.
3. Optical Zoom
This feature is not much related to other vlogging types such as outdoor or indoor or even action sports. Indeed, it is needed by travel vloggers.
An ideal optical zoom camera can make sure that you can focus on distant objects easily. High optical zoom also makes sure that there is no pixel shattering when you focus on a distant object.
Therefore, you will be easily getting a vlogging camera in low budget with a perfect optical zoom.
4. Wireless Connectivity
Wireless connectivity is also necessary as many vloggers get irritated by the mess of connecting wires to move their photos and videos.
Having Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and NFC make your video sharing work very easy.
For your info, you can easily get a cheap vlogging camera with wireless connectivity.
5. Optical Image Stabilization
Are you worried about the shakiness and blurriness in your video? If you are facing this issue then you will be needing a vlogging camera with perfect image stabilization.
Optical image stabilization is very necessary for a sense that no one will watch your video blogs if they are full of shakiness and blurriness.
In fact, you are going to lose your audience if there is frequent blurring or shaking in the videos you make. Many vlogging cameras are offering this feature and they will cost you no more than 300 bucks as well.
Summary
Vlogging camera is a necessity while starting vlogging as a hobby or carrier. However, everyone can’t afford a pro-level DSLR or Mirrorless camera. So, countering this problem, we have curated a list of the best vlogging cameras for under $300 for every niche of vlogs.
If we forget to include a better camera, please let us know in the comment section. We’ll happy to include it in our list.