Buying guide
The Best Vlogging Cameras Under $500
Under $500 you're choosing between two specialists: a rugged action cam and a talking-head compact. Both beat a phone in their lane. Here's which fits what you shoot.
Take the quiz →Under $500, you're choosing between two very different cameras — and which is right depends entirely on what you shoot. Both beat a phone in their lane; neither tries to be a do-everything mirrorless. Here's how to pick.
Best for action and POV: GoPro HERO13 Black
At around $399, the GoPro HERO13 Black is the most capable sub-$500 camera if your footage involves movement, water, or mounting. It's waterproof without a case, attaches to a helmet, chest, or handlebar, and produces the steadiest run-and-gun video made. The trade-off: a fixed ultra-wide lens and weak autofocus make it poor for sitting and talking. See Osmo Pocket 3 vs GoPro HERO13 if you're torn between action and talking-head.
Best for talking-head: Canon PowerShot V10
At about $429, the Canon PowerShot V10 is purpose-built for sitting or walking and talking to the lens. A built-in kickstand, an ultra-wide front-facing lens, and a larger sensor than the GoPro make it the friendlier face-to-camera vlog tool, and it doubles as a webcam. It just can't go underwater or take a beating.
How to choose under $500
It comes down to one question: are you in the shot moving, or in front of the camera talking? Pick the GoPro for action, adventure, and POV. Pick the V10 for daily vlogs, talking-head, and streaming. If you want one camera that's smoother for walking-and-talking and you can stretch a little past this budget, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the natural next step up.
Take the quiz and we'll match you to the best camera for your budget.
Frequently asked
What's the best vlogging camera under $500?
It depends on what you film. For action, POV, and anything wet or mounted, the GoPro HERO13 Black is the best sub-$500 pick. For talking-head and everyday vlogs, the Canon PowerShot V10 is friendlier and doubles as a webcam. Neither does both well.
Can you get a good vlogging camera for under $500?
Yes, as long as your needs are focused. Sub-$500 cameras like the GoPro HERO13 and Canon PowerShot V10 each do one job very well. Interchangeable-lens cameras and pocket gimbals that handle everything tend to start a bit above this budget.