Many intermediate and even expert level videographers will recommend using mirrorless cameras. The best mirrorless camera for video is lighter, more versatile, and more comfortable to carry around than its mirrored counterpart. With a variety of brands producing excellent mirrorless cameras, it can be tricky to find just the right one for your needs.
How We Choose Our Ratings
Choosing the best mirrorless cameras for video takes more than looking at lists of features and comparing models. We search through countless testimonials and reviews to make sure that the specifications on paper live up to real-world use.
Our ratings also take into consideration the reputation of the brand and their customer service. We collect feedback from a variety of active users which allows us to make the best product recommendations from the most reputable companies.
Top 9 Best Mirrorless Camera for Video
Product | Image | Details | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sony a6500 |  | With a sleek black case that is smaller than many of the other brands. | ||
Panasonic GH5 |  | A micro four-thirds sensor, and 20MP resolution make it an excellent choice. | ||
Fuji X-T2 |  | Slightly higher resolution with 24.3MP and also features Wi-Fi capabilities and interchangeable lenses. | ||
Sony RX100 V |  | Stunningly attractive with its sleek black case, but the discreet controls and 4k video recording option make it well worth. | ||
Olympus OM-D E-M10 II |  | Distinctive-looking camera from a trusted brand. | ||
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera |  | Takes great video and fits in your pocket without a fuss. | ||
Samsung NX3000 |  | 20.3 megapixels supported by a CMOS Sensor and can record video in 1080p. | ||
Olympus PEN-F |  | Super-fast autofocus and 5-axis stabilizer. It captures 1080p video and includes an electronic viewfinder. | ||
Panasonic G7 |  | 16MP of resolution and the lenses interchange with several other brands. |
Buyers Guide
When considering many cameras, it is essential to keep in mind some of the features that will make the device more pleasant and easy to use. Many first-time camera buyers will find it easy to get overwhelmed, but if you look for a few key things, chances are you can narrow down your choices significantly.
Camera Weight
The weight of your camera and how large it is will obviously impact how comfortable it is to use. Mirrorless cameras are much lighter than the mirrored version, and most are also smaller. Smaller can mean that it fits better in your hand and you can comfortably shoot longer.
Smaller cases also mean that you may be able to more easily use your fingers to make adjustments without removing your hand from the device to do so. Smaller cameras also need smaller cases and therefore can be better if you intend to travel or take them along when you go places.
Battery Life
Battery life is always improving but be sure to check the amount of shooting time you're getting with a specific model. Carrying extra batteries is the obvious option here, but depending on what kind of video you are shooting you’ll want to plan that expense into the overall cost of buying a new camera.
Extra batteries are also extra weight to carry around, and once they are depleted, they may take longer to charge than you'd like. Consider these features when selecting a camera to make sure you have the battery life required to shoot your projects correctly.Screen Type and Size
Most brands have a standard 3" LCD screen on their mirrorless cameras, but the resolution of the display can make a difference. Don't be shy about checking out cameras in the store to ensure the screen is of suitable quality for your needs.
Availability of Lenses
Many mirrorless cameras will take lenses from other brands, and this can make it much easier to find inexpensive lenses to do a specific job. Lenses can be costly and having to buy a whole new set each time you get a new camera can be an expense that is avoidable.
Some brands will also offer the same lens, but one will be lighter or of higher quality than the other. If your camera will take the lenses from multiple brands, it's worth shopping around for the best lens in each category.
Other Features to Consider
Image stabilization is another feature that comes up frequently when looking at cameras for video recording. You'll want a camera that has good stabilization features, or you may find yourself with persistently fuzzy video, or other flaws.
Weatherproofing is also a feature that some mirrorless cameras have, and less expensive ones may only be water resistant. Check the model that you are considering to make sure it is weather resistant if you plan to shoot outside. Otherwise, you'll need to prepare appropriate cover to keep your device dry and undamaged.
Here's Our Full Reviews Of
Top 9 Best Mirrorless Camera for Video
Sony a6500
Sony consistently releases some of the best mirrorless cameras for video and their a6500 model is no exception. With 24MP resolution and up to 120 frames per second in HD video, it is one of the more capable cameras available, and it's also exceptionally priced.
Pros
Cons
Like other mirrorless cameras that cost at least $1000 more, the a6500 has a 4K frame rate of 30 frames per second. It weighs in at light 16 ounces, one of the lightest on our list, and the MSRP is around $1389.
Regarding aesthetics, the a6500 has that covered too, with a sleek black case that is smaller than many of the other brands. Texturing and discreet buttons on the case help this camera feel considerably less bulky in your hands without sacrificing performance.
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
Above Average | $1389 |
Panasonic GH5
The Panasonic GH5 is another excellent example of one of the best mirrorless cameras for video recording that you can buy. It's a micro four-thirds sensor, and 20MP resolution make it an excellent choice for videographers looking to capture high-quality video.
The GH5 captures 4K video and is considered the best camera you can buy before heading onto pricier professional models. The viewfinder is helpfully large and is bright enough that you can easily see in all lighting conditions.
Pros
Cons
This camera is an awesome option for intermediate and expert videographers that may also want to take some photographs from time to time. The MSRP on the GH5 is around $1800, and it can readily be found online.
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
High | $1800 |
Fuji X-T2
The Fuji X-T2 has a slightly higher resolution with 24.3MP and also features Wi-Fi capabilities and interchangeable lenses. This magnificent camera from Fuji is reasonably priced with an MSRP of $1700 but comes loaded with features.
The HD frame rate is 60 frames per second, and it does up to 30 frames per second in 4K. It's a little heavier than other models at 25.2 ounces, but not the heaviest we've seen. It doesn't have in-body image stabilization, but it does allow you to add other components to improve functionality.
There is an optional battery grip you can add which gives you an additional 30 minutes of recording time. That way you can choose how much weight you need to carry to capture your video.Pros
Cons
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
Good Enough | $1700 |
Sony RX100 V
The RX100 V by Sony is not only stunningly attractive with its sleek black case, but the discreet controls and 4k video recording option make it well worth the MSRP of $998. This camera is ideal if you value portability the most but don’t want to sacrifice any of the features that offer exceptional performance.
Pros
Cons
The controls also perform multiple uses with just a single finger. The focus ring can also double as an aperture or even a shutter control, and the built-in lens is a substantial component. You may be surprised at how small this camera is, but it is easily able to put out 4K video just like much more significant models.
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
Above Average | $998 |
Olympus OM-D E-M10 II
Olympus cameras have a very distinctive look, and this model is no exception. The classic textured black and silver case is a retro throwback, but the overall styling is very modern. The buttons are not recessed, but the MSRP makes this camera an incredible budget option at only $699.
Pros
Cons
Once you get over the long name, it's easy to see how the features make it worth a test run. The case is sturdy; it has an excellent processor, it takes 1080p and 4K video, and comes with an optional grip. If that isn't enough, it also has 5-axis image stabilization, a 16MP Live MOS Sensor, and is Wi-Fi capable.
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
Satisfactory | $699 |
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera
If you are looking for a camera that takes great video and fits in your pocket without a fuss, then the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera is the right choice for you. Its grippy case is discreet and small enough to fit in one hand comfortably. Although you can't take photos, it is easily is worth the MSRP of $995.
Pros
Cons
This camera does have limitations, but for the right application it can rival much more expensive cameras and still put out an excellent video. The battery life isn’t great, but this camera can connect to an external power source for all-day shoots. This camera is an attractive option for amateurs, artists, and those on the go that don't want to deal with camera bags and delicate electronics.
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
Above Average | $995 |
Samsung NX3000
The Samsung NX3000 is highly rated for a good reason. It has 20.3 megapixels supported by a CMOS Sensor and can record video in 1080p. The shutter speed is fully adjustable, and it can connect to Wi-Fi for secure video transfers.
The remote ViewFinder also allows you to control the camera and make adjustments on your phone. The lenses can be interchangeable, and this camera will accommodate lenses from other brands which vastly increases the possibilities and potential use cases.
The case is another retro type style, but with more discreet buttons than some of the other brands, and more emphasis on the lens. A textured body ensures the device stays firmly in your hand and recessed controls ensure that this camera won't get caught on anything.
Pros
Cons
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
Good | $529 |
Olympus PEN-F
The PEN-F is another offering from Olympus that impressed us with its super-fast autofocus and 5-axis stabilizer. It captures 1080p video and includes an electronic viewfinder that is a useful feature for any videographer.
The solid aluminum and magnesium components keep it light feeling in the hands, and the lenses are easily interchangeable. With 20MP and a live MOS Sensor, this camera will help you shoot better video without fidgeting with the settings.
The case is typical of Olympus designs and features a classic textured black and silver style. The buttons are visible, but the clean retro styling and features make it forgivable. This camera would also be very suitable for photography.
Pros
Cons
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
High | $1, 099 |
Panasonic G7
The Panasonic G7 is a Micro Four Thirds type of mirrorless camera that is still one of the best mirrorless cameras for video despite being on the lower end for pricing. It has 16MP of resolution and the lenses interchange with several other brands.
The display screen is still the standard 3" LCD common for most brands these days. Despite being less expensive, it still does fantastic 4K video with up to 30 frames per second. The HD frame rate goes up to 60 frames per second, and it's still on the lighter side at 19 ounces.
The Panasonic G7 does not have retro styling and a sleek case like other models. It still has the traditional SLR silhouette that has been trimmed down significantly to save weight. Unlike other models though, it has a larger handle area which can allow videographers the opportunity to adjust settings using only one hand.
Pros
Cons
This camera is perfect for those looking to capture high-quality everyday video and don't want to spend a lot to do it. Commercials for mainstream media have been recorded using this camera, and it's a great example of a smaller camera doing what much bulkier models do.
The MSRP on this camera is $558, which makes it an excellent choice for amateur videographers, or those looking to add another camera to their collection. Users need only remember that it is not weather sealed, so they should plan when working outside.
Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
High | $558, |
