Choosing the best camera for youtube can be tricky due to any number of factors. I have landed on the Canon line of cameras and lenses because they offer a variety of mirrorless cameras that cater to different needs and budgets. Read on to learn about three fantastic options I recommend: the budget-friendly Canon EOS R50, the versatile Canon EOS R7, and the professional-grade Canon EOS R6 Mark II. I will share the key features of each camera to help you decide which one is the best fit for your YouTube channel.
Canon EOS R50
First up, is the Canon EOS R50. This mirrorless camera is a solid choice for beginner YouTubers or those looking for their first upgrade from from using their phone or a webcam. It represents an upgrade to the popular Canon M50, but with some key improvements. The R50 has a slightly larger APS-C sensor and a more advanced autofocus system (though I haven’t had any issues with the autofocus on the M50). It also features a flip-out LCD touchscreen, ideal for vlogs and talking head videos where monitoring yourself is necessary.
The Canon R50 features a 24.2 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC X image processor. It is capable of shooting sharp and crisp videos in bright and well-lit environments. It can record 4K video at up to 30fps with oversampling from 6k, which means you’ll get excellent detail and clarity in your videos. For creators who focus on fast-paced content, the R50 boasts continuous shooting speeds of up to 12fps with the mechanical shutter and 15fps with the electronic shutter. And while the M50 is limited to 30 minute recording times, this upgraded R50 is not.
The Canon EOS R50 is the lowest priced of the three Canon options, coming in (at the time of this article) at $699.00 (with the lens included).
Compare with the Sony ZV-E10.
Canon EOS R7
Next up in the lineup is the Canon EOS R7. This camera steps up the game a bit from the R50, offering more features and performance for intermediate YouTubers or those who just want a little more creative control. The R7 boasts a powerful APS-C sensor with a higher megapixel count than the R50, perfect for capturing even more detail in your videos. It also features a fully articulating LCD touchscreen, giving you even more flexibility when shooting from different angles.
As far as that sensor goes that I just mentioned, the R7 comes with 32.5 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC X image processor. It can record 4K video at up to 60fps and even 10-bit recording for professional-grade color grading. For creators who demand speed, the R7 offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 30fps with the electronic shutter. The autofocus system is also a step up from the R50, featuring subject recognition and tracking to keep your content sharp and focused, even with fast-moving subjects.
Those additional features come with a price though but for creators looking for the next step up, this could be the camera for you. The Canon EOS R7 clocks in at $1,399 for the body only, or $1,799 with the RFS 18-150mm kit lens. I recommend purchasing the camera body and putting the extra money toward a nicer RF lens, something like the 24-105 mm f4, which also comes standard with our next camera.
Compare with the Sony Alpha 6700.
Canon EOS R6 Mark II
And finally, the most professional option on my list is the Canon EOS R6 Mark II. This full-frame mirrorless camera is currently my go-to camera and is ideal for experienced YouTubers. The larger, full-frame sensor not only offers a larger viewing area to capture, but also allows for incredible footage in low-light situations and a shallower depth of field for beautiful bokeh effects. It also features a high-resolution electronic viewfinder for accurate shot previewing.
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II packs some serious specs. Besides that full-frame, 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC X image processor, the R6 Mark II can record 4K video at up to 60fps. For creators who demand the absolute best, the R6 Mark II offers continuous shooting speeds of up to 30fps with the mechanical shutter and a staggering 40fps with the (silent) electronic shutter. The autofocus system is also top of the line, and was one of the primary selling points for me. I carry this camera almost everywhere I go now from my home studio to my kids sporting events. This camera can do it all.
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a full-featured camera and the price tag reflects that. This one comes in at $3,599 (but is currently on sale) with the 24-105mm lens pictured above. The price of the R6 Mark II body only is $2,499 (but is also on sale now).
Compare with the Sony Alpha 7IV.
No matter which camera you choose, remember that great content is about more than just gear. For more tips, tools, and tech to elevate your podcast or YouTube channel, visit me at Summit City Studios on Youtube!