Buying the Best Video Cameras Under $500 is perfect for those who want to shoot high-quality video clips while staying within a reasonable price range. However, the term “video camera” is a bit wide, so make your purchase and offer us the “best” solution will really depend on some of your needs, apart from the price level. Today, we took the time to highlight the best video cameras under $500 that we thought were interesting to watch, in some of our favorite categories of video cameras. We made sure that all sizes, shapes, and features were kept in mind to give you as many options as possible. Let’s start.
Nikon D3200
As the first to start our list, today we have one of our favorite cameras and one of the best video cameras under 500 dollars on the market. You’ll notice that for some reason the DSLR game is usually a Canon versus Nikon, but for our price level, the D3200 wins the race this time around. This is a camera with a 24.2 MP and CMOS compatible sensor for imaging and a lens for VR image stabilization from 18 to 55 mm. Regarding video quality, you get Full HD 1080p resolution and, for photography, a reasonable ISO range, taking into account the price of 100 to 6400 and a continuous shooting option.
For some additional features, it comes with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity that lets you instantly transfer your photos or videos to your social media feeds if you wish. You can also express your creativity with different modes, such as night portrait, portrait, close-up, landscape, etc. If you’re looking for a versatile and advanced video camera to take photos and record videos in different circumstances, you’re in the right place. The Nikon D3200 is certainly one of the best video cameras under $500 on the market, especially if you want a digital SLR that you use for many years as an investment.
Sony Alpha a5000
If you do not feel DSLRs and you’re looking for a mirror-free, capable video camera that lets you take quality photos and make great videos, the Alpha a5000 is certainly one of the best video cameras under 500. The reputation of not only this model but the entire Alpha series of Sony continues its dominance in the category without mirrors, especially in the affordable price. This 8-ounce camera features a unique 20.1 MP Exmor APS CMOS sensor and a mirrorless design that provides extended dynamic range, sharpness, and excellent background control when recording HD video.
It is equipped with a unique image processing function that allows you to work quickly on your videos or photos. With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology, you can instantly upload photos and videos to a computer and share them online with a user-friendly menu. The high ISO sensitivity (over a range of 100 to 16,000) of the Sony Alpha a5000 also ensures excellent photos, even in low light, making them extremely versatile, regardless of the application. This has a name for no reason. Overall, this is one of the best video cameras under $500.
Panasonic HC-V380K
Here have a traditional camcorder that gives many other advanced types of cameras a run for their money. The HC-V380K is a high-quality and one of the best video cameras under $500 that helps you create Full HD videos in all types of conditions. It comes with a 2.51 Mp sensor (a different type of sensor than DSLR and mirrorless cameras that come in the range of 20+), an incredible 90-fold zoom and a 5-axis image stabilization (Hybrid Optical) with which you can even be in perfect take videos when you’re on the go (ideal for sports) – a solid AF system (although not quite a mirrorless AF level).
When you want to make videos, there is 1080p Full HD video for your standard resolution to be there with the rest. It is equipped with a large 3-inch LCD touch screen and a simple menu for easy use. The Panasonic HC-V380K also includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for easy transfer of photos and videos directly online. It is recommended for those who want the camcorder to feel, easy to use and smaller, but also a great zoom lens that many DSLR and mirrorless video cameras cannot compete with. Overall, this is one of the best video cameras under 500 dollars.
Canon EOS Rebel T5
If you’re looking for another candidate for a DSLR, which is one of the best video cameras under $500 out there, do not forget to watch the EOS Rebel T5, a model designed to capture both videos and high-resolution photos. to deliver quality given the lower price level. This is an 18 MP CMOS sensor (APS-C) camera with a Full HD 1080p resolution, a large LCD touch screen and a simple and easy to use menu, and a long battery life with high quality.
Thanks to the unique intelligent automatic mode function, you can combine different functions (light optimization, brightness, lighting, etc.) to feel the specific lighting conditions you are in, so you do not have to tamper with manual settings (if you also use them for photography) ). The Canon EOS Rebel T5 is one of the best DSLR cameras we have seen with videos priced below $ 500. If you opt for this or our previous choice, we are currently taking the cheaper camera.
GoPro HERO 5
The GoPro HERO is one that many of us may already know. GoPro videos are fairly synonymous with first-person action cameras (but still earn a number of valuable competitors as the technology grows). Although the newest HERO 5 cameras have been released, it is still quite relevant today (especially now that the price is decreasing with newer versions). The Silver is located in the middle of their HERO 4 line and comes with a 12 Mp CMOS sensor that lets you take both crystal-clear photos and Full HD 1080p videos (or a 4K resolution if you want, albeit with a battery that drains). It is easy and simple to use thanks to the large LCD screen and the simple menu – you can also use it via your smartphone with their GoPro app.
The fisheye lens is not something that everyone is a fan of, but the sensitivity in low light and the waterproof capabilities (you need special housing that costs extra) make it a great solution for people in wet or dark conditions. This video camera comes with many creative expression features such as simultaneous photo and video recordings, continuous photos and time-lapse photos, as well as a unique Pro-Tune option. Not to mention the hundreds of attachments and accessories that allow you to adjust the fit and feel, depending on your use. We have enjoyed the GoPro HERO since it came out because it is right in the middle of their price points and advanced features. Overall, this is one of the best video cameras under 500 dollars.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50
Our Lumix DMC-ZS50 is definitely one of the best video cameras under 500 dollars in the market, thanks to the budget-friendly price and yet advanced features such as the 12.1 Mp MOS sensor, 30 times optical zoom lens, 24-mm Leica DC Vario-Elmar lens and large 3-inch TFT LCD screen. This is a capable video camera with which you can make sharp, high-quality photos and Full HD 1080p videos in most circumstances. The camera is equipped with a live viewfinder that helps you reach the desired level of precision, as well as a control ring that allows easy exposure, focus and zoom control. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 is great if you wanted a cheaper, smaller solution for the best video cameras under $500; however, keep reading if you wanted something higher in quality.
Canon PowerShot G9 X
This is our back-to-back point-and-shoot recommendation for video cameras, and we have a slightly higher quality than our previous Lumix pick if you had some money left. The entire PowerShot line is really famous among the P.A.S. category, but this is by far one of their most popular because it is praised for its handy compact dimensions, lightweight, great touch display, light sensitivity, and unprocessed image quality. For specifications it has a 20 MP MOS sensor and a Full HD 1080p video resolution (24p, 30p or 60p).
It comes with a triple optical zoom lens, while the ISO range (from 125 to 12800) allows you to use fast shutter speeds. A few other highlights of the PowerShot G9 X are built-in NFC and Wi-Fi, remote recording with their ‘Camera Connect app’, image sync function, mobile device connection button and ‘star shooting mode’ if you want to step into photography your videos. The Canon PowerShot G9 X is a lightweight camera that fits in your clutch or jacket pocket – certainly not in the vicinity of most of the DSLRs. Overall, this is one of the best video cameras under $500.
Garmin Virb XE
The Garmin Virb XE video camera should definitely be considered if you did not feel our GoPro pick and wanted one of the best video cameras under $500. It is waterproof, shockproof, lightweight and easy to use, making it absolutely excellent companion is if you are looking for a camera that will reliably serve you in all different circumstances and at any desired location. The Virb XE has a 12.4-megapixel sensor, can film in 1080p or 720p, stores data via a microSD card and is known for its great image stabilization. You also have something called G-Metrix technology that will add GPS, G-force, and orientation to action data. Watch the Garmin Virb XE if you want an action camera slightly cheaper than our previous GoPro pick. Also, we consider it one of the best video cameras under 500 dollars.
Samsung NX3000
The Samsung NX3000 should be considered as one of the best video cameras under $500, if it is still mentioned in that price range – we were dubious when adding it because it tends to fluctuate. However, this thing can even be worth the extra money, especially if you want a lighter camera than DSLRs. It comes with a 20.3 MP high-sensitivity APS-C CMOS sensor and a versatile 16-50 mm PZ lens. With regard to construction and appearance, we absolutely love the elegant and stylish slim finish that looks like old-school leather cameras.
For pictures, the viewfinder function allows you to control the exposure of the camera, the shutter speed, etc. in a creative way. The wide ISO range of 100 to 25,600 of the Samsung NX3000 enables high sharpness of photos, even in low light conditions. Otherwise, because we are discussing video cameras in this manual, you have the much-loved 1080p Full HD video quality that you have to offer. It also made it one of the best mirrorless cameras for our beginner’s guide. Overall, this is one of the best video cameras under 500 dollars.
360fly HD
We have not put 360-degree cameras on top because they are quite up and coming and still rare; however, we had to include this in order to diversify, in case you are curious about another type of video camera that is available to you. We know many people who are looking for the latest gadgets and technological advancements, and this one is absolutely in that category. Do you know those cameras that can film everything around it? Here it is. Not to mention the moment you watch the video, you can literally drag across the screen at any angle.
In terms of specifications, this is a video camera equipped with a 22.6 MP high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and a 3-axis sensor that helps you create beautiful, crystal-clear photos even when you are on the go. The size is quite small and can be set anywhere. It also comes with built-in Bluetooth connectivity for direct transfer of photos and videos to your computer, while the waterproof design allows you to maintain functionality even when it rains. It is equipped with full HD resolution and thanks to the 32 GB memory you can record a large amount of video before transferring it. The 360fly HD is clearly different from everyone else but is perhaps the perfect solution for the best video cameras under $500.
Final Words
Video cameras are the best way to digitally capture the small milestones of life when they pass by. Yesterday may be gone, but with the help of a good video camera, you can play those precious memories as often as you like. Video cameras are not always cheap, but we have done our best mention some of the Best Video Cameras Under $500 that you can buy right now. However, if you still have any further queries regarding what to buy, then feel free to contact us anytime.
