Make a Scene with the Best Cheap Cameras for Vlogging

Reviews

To become a successful vlogger you need a good vlogging camera, but you don’t have to break a bank for it. If you’re looking forward to buying the best low priced camera for Vlogging, you’ll get surprised by the many choices available in the market. You’ll have to spend hours comparing prices and checking on the features to ensure you’re choosing the right gadget. It can be even harder if you don’t know what to look into a camera.

We have focused on the best cheap cameras for vlogging under $100 and we spent hours reading reviews, consulting professional photographers to enable us to come with the following reviews. Whether you’re starting as a vlogger or you’re already one, this guide will help you choose the right and reliable product. But before we delve into the review, let’s look into the best features of a Vlogging camera.

Features to Consider when Buying a Vlogging Camera

What is a Vlogging Camera?

A vlog or better known as video blog is content pieced together to make a video. In this case, a Vlogging camera is a camera that is capable of taking videos which you can publish and distribute in various social media platforms like YouTube.

Video and Image Quality

The resolution of your camera measures the quality. You will find that every camera has resolution power indicated either on the camera itself or in the manual. Most resolutions range between 360p to 1080p, while some of the most potent cameras have 4k.

Smartphone cameras often have a resolution of 360p but get blurry on large screens. DVDs have 480p and can play on desktop monitors, laptops, and smaller TVs. If you want quality videos for your vlog, look for a camera with 1080p and above. Anything below that will not deliver quality work for your YouTube channel.

Audio

If you want to succeed in Vlogging, you should ensure your videos are audible enough. If not, the viewers will not stick around. You should, therefore, pay close attention to the microphone before buying the camera. Cameras are fitted with built-in, high-quality microphones, but they might pick the background noise. More so, ensure you buy a camera equipped with the microphone on the front.

Weight

The best Vlogging camera needs to be lightweight and compact for easy portability. Bulky/heavy cameras will be a burden to you to carry it around. More so, it will be difficult to get clear footage for your vlog. When buying the cheap Vlogging cameras, ensure it’s relatively light.

Autofocus

You will realize that vloggers switch between filming their work and the backgrounds. The camera should quickly point to the subject you’re focusing on. Having to wait long for the camera to find or focus on the subject can be frustrating. That is why you should focus on buying a camera that has fast, precise, and accurate autofocus.

Image Stabilization

In most cases, vloggers take videos while strolling, diving, swimming, skiing, and doing other activities. This can make the hands shake, delivering blurry images and videos. Although there is video editing software that may stabilize the footage, having a camera fitted with built-in optical image stabilization will be of great help. The feature prevents shaky video footage from giving quality, crystal clear images for your vlog.

Built-in Wi-Fi

Once you take a video, you’ll still need to edit it to suit your needs and attract many viewers. However, video editing can take more than half an hour or even an hour for one-minute finished video. Therefore, it might take four hours to edit a video of approximately four minutes. This can be hectic!

Although built-in Wi-Fi won’t be of much help in the editing process, it will ensure the videos automatically appear on your smartphone or PC.

These are the essential features you should check before purchasing your Vlogging camera. Below are cheap Vlogging cameras loaded with great structures to deliver unparalleled results.

Top 10 Best Cheap Cameras for Vlogging 2024 (Under $100)

1. Canon PowerShot A2500 16MP Digital Camera

Why we like it: PowerShot Digital camera is a powerful device fitted with a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, 16 megapixels, and Canon Digic 4 image processor to deliver a high-quality image. It has an attractive budget price.

Editor’s Rating:

Design and Controls
The A2500 has a slim and stylish design that gives it a posh look. It comes in black or red colors. The camera weighs 4.8 ounces and measures 3.9 x 0.8 x 2.2 inches to provide you with a compact size and lightweight for easy portability and storage. The lens doesn’t protrude. Its also fitted with an AF illuminator fitted on both sides of the lens. The raised Canon logo acts as a gripping surface for your right-hand fingers.

The camera is engineered with salient features which makes it easy for novices to use and control. It’s fitted with a help button at the exterior to bring up the help menu whenever you need it. This ensures you have easy moments in taking videos and photos. With the menu, you can scroll through various topics to answer your queries with precise explanations, and get helpful shooting advice. The scene modes are easy, fun ways to give your videos and shots an artistic feel without the need for filters and extra lenses. The modes eliminate gradations between colors for an impressive feel. There is a live view control to enable brightness, tone, and color adjustment to your image and videos using easy-to-understand controls.

Salient Features
The A2500 has a new ECO mode to enable the device to minimize power consumption. It takes energy conservation a notch higher. The Eco mode is activated via a button for easy power conservation when the scene is too exciting to put the camera down. This mode wakes the camera from sleep with a simple press of a button. The camera has 16.0 megapixels of resolution to make your images clear and bright, with tiny details and textures reproduced even at a long range. The high-level resolution is suitable for creating large prints and allows you’re the flexibility to crop or blow any unwanted section. This camera takes pride in a DIGIC 4 image processor which boost the functionality and performance of the camera. The 5X Optical zoom delivers versatility and stunning optical performance.

Verdict
If you want a high-performing camera that comes at a competitive price, the A2500 is the best bet.

Pros
  • The Smart AUTO is capable of recognizing 32 shooting situations
  • It’s a perfect camera for beginners
  • It gives clear shots
  • You can use it to record videos and delete the unwanted scenes
  • It provides images a miniature look
Cons
  • The photos might not be apparent in darker lit situations
  • It might break after a short while

2. Canon PowerShot A2300 Digital Camera

Why we like it: The A2300 is another potent digital camera by Canon which screams durability and elegance. The Digital IS reduces the effect of the camera shake. It has a help button to provides easy controls and simple explanations.

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Design and Controls
The A2300 comes in four colors with a simple and stylish design. The manufacturers understand that people would like colors that express their individual feelings and accentuate their style. Pick any color from blue, to silver, to red, and black. The chic compact digital camera will also be the right device for photographers who care about the image and videos qualities. Measuring 3.7 x 0.8 x 2.1 inches and weighing 4.5 ounces, the A2300 is considered as a lightweight and compact camera for easy portability and storage. It comes with a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. The battery charge-up is easy and quick to ensure the camera is always ready and waiting for special moments. To make it easy for use, the camera is fitted with a help button designed to be easy and fun for novices and professional photographers. Upon pressing the button, the LCD screen will bring you’re the menu. You can, therefore, choose any topic and get instant and precise help. The menu will show you the diagrams, give shooting advice and highlight the position of any button you might need. The Digital IS is engineered to beat the blur that ruins perfect shots by recognizing the main subject. It then applies the camera shake correction to suit the situation at hand.

Salient Features
The A2300 is designed with a 16.0 Megapixel image sensor to make your images clear and stunning. The DIGIC 4 image process boost the performance and functionality of the camera to give quality pictures. You can also shoot high-definition videos anywhere, anytime using this chic camera by Canon. With a simple press on the dedicated movie button, you will be able to record every moment in motion, effortlessly. The 720p HD video is vivid, stunning, and smooth to enable you to capture any special moments.

The dedicated movie button makes shooting video as easy as snapping pictures. You don’t need to search through the menu or even plan ahead. When you want to capture an epic moment in 720p HD, you only press the movie button and recording begins.

Verdict
If you’re looking for a camera ideal for both novices and professional photographers, then A2300 is the ultimate solution. It does not gamble with quality.

Pros
  • High image resolution
  • It captures videos easily
  • Stellar performance
  • The Lithium-ion battery charge-up quickly
Cons
  • It doesn’t come with a memory card
  • It has no viewfinder

3. Nikon COOLPIX S33 Waterproof Digital Camera

Why we like it: the COOLPIX S33 is a high performing digital camera that boasts of great features that enhances its functionality. It’s a waterproof device that can go 32 feet deep with a freezeproof down to 14° F.

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Design and Controls
The S33 is a powerful, waterproof camera engineered to withstand any weather condition. If you love swimming or diving and would not let any epic moment underwaters to slip away, then you should be ordering this camera. Freezeproof, waterproof, and shockproof features are suitable for skiing, the beach, amusement parks, the pool, and other bumpy features. It’s meant for nonstop family and fun. The oversized buttons and the menu system makes it easy for you use with the dedicated movie record button making it seamless to switch between 13-megapixel shots and 1080p HD videos with a stereo sound.

The camera can go underwater down to 33 feet deep and can withstand drops of up 5 feet. More so, the camera is designed to persevere through snow temperatures as cold as 14°F. You’re, therefore assured of taking explicit and clear photos and video whether on land, underwater or up in the sky. The oversized buttons are user-friendly and ideal for hands of all sizes. You don’t need to adjust any setting for perfect shots- just point and shoot.

Salient Features
COOLPIX S33 by Nikon is designed with the entire family in mind. The full HD 1080p make the camera versatile. You will be able to record sounds and sights with the 1080p HD to help you enjoy for years to come. You can choose to add fun effects like a miniature to make the entire scene look like a toy model. More so, connect to the HDTV with an optional HDMI cable to help you enjoy your epic creations with your whole family. The camera has a genuine NIKKOR glass lens, and the 3x optical zoom gives you close-ups or concerts, nature, and sports.

Verdict
The COOLPIX S33 is no ordinary camera. It’s infused with several features to make one of the most outstanding cameras for Vlogging. It will give you the full value of your money.

Pros
  • Comes with a rechargeable battery
  • There is USB cable and a charging AC Adapter
  • Sleek design
  • Ideal for the whole family
  • It has a flash
Cons
  • The cell has a short lifespan
  • Some users claim that the camera might leak

4. Nikon COOLPIX L32 Digital Camera

Why we like it: This is another great model by Nikon that runs on regular AA batteries. The camera is ergonomically designed to help you capture sights and sounds to bring your memories to life.

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Design and Controls
The COOLPIX L32 is designed with a large 3.0-inch LCD screen. You will enjoy taking photos with this slim and stylish camera. Its sleek design makes it more attractive. If you want better pictures or selfies of family and friends, use the Smart Portrait System and leave the camera to do all the work. For perfect videos, you only need to press the dedicated button to capture 720p HD videos with sounds. More so, you can zoom while recording and the electronic vibration reduction will keep your videos steady and clear. The 3.0-inch LCD has fun image effects where you can apply your favorites and show off to your friends. Furthermore, you don’t need to waste time charging your camera as it operates on regular AA batteries.

The COOLPIX L32 is about easy control and operation. Even a novice will shoot and enjoy stunning photos and videos. If you want to record videos te dedicated movie record button will be of great help. And if you’re going to add fun effect, the camera’s simple menu system makes it a breeze.

Salient Features
The smart portrait system makes everything look a breeze. The system makes it easy to create excellent photos of your friends and family. Turn it on, and there will pop man portrait-optimizing features to choose from. The skin softening feature applies an elegant soft focus effect. The face-priority AF focuses and finds on faces. More so, the camera can take an instant photo of someone’s smile.

The 5x wide-angle NIKKOR zoom lens is ideal for everything from close-up portraits to wide-angle group shots. The electronic vibration reduction keeps photos and videos steadier even when your hands are shaky.

Verdict
Bring your memories to life with this elegantly designed camera with an HD 720p videos with sound. The built-in microphone captures the sounds in high fidelity. We recommend it for family outings.

Pros
  • Elegant design
  • Captures sights and sounds
  • Perfect shots even with shaky hands
  • Operates on regular AA batteries
Cons
  • The batteries run out quickly

5. Sony DSCW88810 Digital Camera

Why we like it: The camera is made by a reliable brand which takes pride in manufacturing high-quality products. Apart from its competitive price, the camera boasts of 20.1 Megapixels which take perfect and clear photos and videos.

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Design and Controls
Sony DSCW88810 is one of the best designed Vlogging cameras in the market. It weighs 3.84 ounces and measures 4.4 x 3.2 x 2.4 inches making a lightweight camera that you carry with you wherever you want to go. Its compact size makes it easy to store. The device comes with one Lithium-ion battery. The potent 20.1megapixel supper HAD CCD image sensor enables you to capture exceptional images with distinctive contrast and lucidity down to the finest details. Capture the best moments with the 6x optical zoom in a great Sony lens.

The DSCW88810 is exceptionally designed to enable you to shoot incredibly smooth videos and clear photos with SteadyShot image stabilization with active mode. This smart technology delivers high-quality, sharp images with low noise and minimal blur even if your hands are shaky or when strolling.

Charging the camera batteries has never been this easy via a USB cable. You will connect the gadget via USB to the USB port and charge the battery on the go. It records in 29 minutes’ segments. However, the camera requires HDTV and HDMI cable which is sold separately. The 2.0 USB cable is also sold separately.

Salient Features
The 720p MP4 movie mode allows the camera to shoot 1280 x 720 high definition videos at 30 fps, which is an ideal standard format when working with a laptop. Take grand opportunity to create high-quality movies with full use of the exceptional optical zoom. It can transfer small files to your Mac computer. When the files get transferred to your PC, and there is internet connectivity, you can easily upload the media to favorite video and photo-sharing websites like YouTube and Photobucket.

With DSCW88810, you will reach beyond the traditional wide angle lens to help you capture more magnificent shots with the help of Sweep panorama mode. The shots are available on wide and up to 360-degrees. The smile shutter technology will capture a smile instantly.

Verdict
If you have been looking for an affordable Vlogging camera that will make your YouTube flood with praises of explicit videos and shots, then DSCW88810 should be your next purchase.

Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Can capture a smile the moment it happens
  • Take spectacular shots with Sweep Panorama Mode
  • Elegant design
  • Lightweight and compact for easy portability and storage
Cons
  • Some users claim that the lens does not retract back
  • The camera does not have a Wi-Fi

6. Sony DSCW800/B Digital Camera

Why we like it: The camera is well-designed with a super HAD CCD 20.1 MP sensor for perfect shots. It has a focal length of 4.6 -2.3 mm and 5x optical zoom for close-up photos. It comes with an instructional manual to guide you.

Editor’s Rating:

Design and Controls
Sony is one of the reliable brands across the globe. The company produces high-quality products that give you value for your money. It’s no difference with DSCW800 which is elegantly designed with various features to boost its performance. It has a slim design measuring 4.4 x 3.2 x 2.4 inches and weighs 3.84 ounces. You, therefore, guaranteed to have a smooth time when carrying the gadget. It comes with a Lithium metal battery which takes about one hour to charge. However, the rechargeable battery is built-in, meaning when the charge goes off, you have to wait for it to recharge. This might make you lose epic moments you could have captured.

In addition to the USD cord, the gadget also comes with a lanyard, small foldable leaflets, and wall plug USB cube charger. You can simplify the camera menu with easy mode making your shooting experience smooth and enjoyable.

Salient Features
The DSCW800 features a built-in instruction guide to enable you to search the gadget’s functions to suit your needs. Do you want to reach beyond the conventional wide-angle lens and capture spectacular shots? If so, then this is the device you need. The Sweep Panorama mode continuously takes shoots at high speed and then piece the images together at a 360-degrees full circle. The smile shutter technology is engineered to automatically captures smiles. You simply press the smile shutter button, and the camera will exceptionally do the rest.

Verdict
Getting a product that strikes a balance between affordability and quality is an uphill task. However, Sony has done this effortlessly by manufacturing DSCW800. You can expect clear photos and great videos.

Pros
  • Comes with a built-in instruction guide
  • It has a powerful 20.1-megapixel image sensor
  • Lightweight for easy portability
  • Elegant design
Cons
  • USB and HDMI cables are sold separately
  • The screen is tiny

7. KODAK PIXPRO Friendly Zoom Digital Camera

Why we like it: KODAK PIXPRO is an extremely lightweight, user-friendly digital camera that will make your Vlogging moments fun and memorable. It comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery 28mm wide angle, and other great features that will make you explore your inner creativity.

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Design and Controls
When it comes to size, the KODAK PIXPRO measures 0.9 x 3.6 x 2.2 inches and weighs around 3.68 ounces. It makes it a pocket-sized, portable and ready-to-go camera. It is the answer to a compact, intuitive, and affordable digital camera that delivers spectacular videos and photos with a slight push of the button. Additionally, the camera offers a generous 5x zoom in a compact design. Grab this user-friendly gadget to point and shoot wherever you want to to take a shot. It has a super clear focus to deliver exceptional images.

With a single touch of a button, you will seamlessly switch between images to HD video. It depicts simplicity at its best. The handy 28mm wide angle lens brings about great capabilities and performance within a friendly zoom.

Salient Features
KODAK PIXPRO is rich with great technological features like auto-detection settings. These settings are intelligently designed to make all difference in the videos and photos you shoot. The settings are also easy to use, and they’re easily accessible in the camera’s menu. You are needed to select ON to engage smile, face, and blink detection features. It will help you relax without the worry of losing perfect shots.

Another great feature is the 2.7 Inch LCD screen which gives you a chance to check out of your photo will come out great. You only need to point, frame, and then shoot!

Verdict
KODAK PIXPRO will help you tell your story without missing a moment. It’s easy to operate, highly portable and delivers unrivaled results.

Pros
  • Comes with a powerful built-in rechargeable battery
  • It has a slim design to fit in your pocket
  • It’s compatible with Windows 10
  • Inexpensive
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Some users complain of low-quality images
  • It does not come with an SD Card

8. YI Action Camera

Why we like it: The YI action is an elegantly designed, pocket-sized, and high-performance dynamo that helps you to capture every great moment. Be your own photographer, editor, and director with this classic camera.

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Design and Controls
It has never been this easy to take spectacular photos and shoot explicit videos. If you have been yearning for a well-designed camera that will give you value for your money, then YI Action Camera is your sure bet. It enables you to take breathtaking HD videos and clear panoramic photos. The camera is equipped with an Amarella A7LS processor, which is one of the best image processors. This system gives you an opportunity to shoot visually fascinating videos at 1080P. The A7LS is adjustable to enable you to take the video at your preferred angle. With motion compensation, blur and noise reduction, as well as the image stabilization, your images, and hi-resolution videos will remain crisp and clear.

There are several ways in which you can play with this high-performance camera. Take an underwater voyage with YI waterproof case. You can also take an adventurous mountain biking trip. The Bluetooth remote and selfie stick allows you to take selfies while skiing or when diving from 32 ft. Away. It comes with many photo modes like burst mode, normal, self-timer, and time-lapse. There are eleven video modes ranging from 1296p to 480p.

Salient Features
One of the best features of YI Action Camera is the Sony 16MP sensor which allows you to take vivid and sharp photos even in low lighting conditions. You will also enjoy shooting your world with an ultra-wide angle lens. The beautiful all-glass 16MP CMOS lens fitted with an F2.8 aperture offers you an impressive experience.

With YI Action Camera, you can frame your shots precisely by previewing live footage on your smartphone- thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi. The Wi-Fi connectivity enables you to see what the camera sees and take videos and photos from up to 300ft away. This is impressive!

Verdict
YI Action Camera is a highly versatile gadget that allows you to take shots from any angle and at any point. If you’re a selfie junkie, then this is your device.

Pros
  • Comes with four photo modes and 11 video modes
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • It has a remote control app
  • Rechargeable 110 mAh battery with 90 minutes of battery life
Cons
  • It might be slow to start
  • Some users claim that the App interface does not work appropriately

9. SUNLEA Video Camera Vlogging Camera

Why we like it: It’s a great starter camera with a nice look. It’s very portable and comes with a carrying case for safety, a microphone, remote and instruction manual for a step-by-step user guide. The Video Camera by Sunlea is easy to use and delivers stunning photos and videos.

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Design and Controls
The package includes the video camera, HDMI and USB cables, camera bag, remote, a microphone, lens cover, and user manual to give you a step-by-step guide to help you operate the gadget efficiently. Measuring 5.07 x 2.32 x 2.24 and weighing 13.6 ounces, the camera is considered lightweight to ensure it does not become a burden when traveling with it. It’s portable, super remote control camera that you can it anywhere and anytime. The Video Camera is suitable when going for hikes with friends since it’s perfect for recording precious moments outdoor and even at home. Furthermore, the company offers a one-year warranty and stellar customer care services.

You can also use this camera as a webcam for your Skype or YouTube, making it one of the best cameras for Vlogging under $100. If you connect the gadget with your computer, you can enjoy a video call with your family and friends. It comes with an HDMI cable which you can use to connect directly to the HDTV and playback the videos you took in your adventure.

Salient Features
This Vlogging video camera by Sunlea has an excellent performance in recoding- thanks to the full HD 1080p at 30fps video resolution with crystal clear photos with 24.0MP picture resolution. It has 3.0-inch LCD flip touchscreen with 270-degrees rotation capacity. The touchscreen is ideal for start filming, taking selfies, and setting up specifications that will suit your needs. The multi-functional camcorders support videos and photos, face capture, self-timer, beauty function, 16X zoom, anti-shake, and remote control. The camera is designed for daily recording and not for professional video audio recording. It also comes with an external microphone.

Verdict
This Video Camera is designed for everyday use. The high-quality external microphone is suitable for speech, conference, symposium, filming, and media interview.

Pros
  • Fitted with multi-functional camcorders
  • It has good performance
  • There is an external microphone ideal for speech, conference, and media interview
  • Comes with 0ne-year warranty
Cons
  • Low battery lifespan
  • Most of the touchscreen features might not work

10. Pybbo Vlogging Camera with Full HD 1080p

Why we like it: The Vlogging Camera by Pybbo is the perfect digital camera which is ideal for selfies. The 3-inch LCD touchscreen can flip up to 180-degrees to allow you to see yourself while recording. With face detection features, it’s easy for a photographer to take crystal clear photos.

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Design and Controls
This Vlogging camera by Pybbo closes our list of the best Vlogging cameras under $100. It has a sleek design and lightweight feature for easy portability. The camera has a face detection makes it easy to use gadget. Once the camera finds the human face, it inevitably adjusts both the exposure and focus to give the best portrait possible.

Furthermore, the anti-shake feature enables you to shoot images at slow shutter speeds without causing blurring. It measures 7.1 x 3.5 x 5.9 inches which is a bit big. However, it only weighs 1.76 pounds making it an extremely lightweight device for easy portability. It comes in one color-black- which can blend with almost everything.

Salient Features
The camera supports 24.0 MP images and full HD 1080p video resolution. The blend of these two features gives you crystal clear pictures and videos. You can also connect the camera to a compatible tablet, Android smartphone, or iOS. The app is easily downloadable by scanning QR code on the manual. The App will help you control the preview, camera and activate movie button or a camera shutter. It makes it easy to post your photos to your favorite social media platforms or better to back up the images to the cloud without connecting to a PC.

You should never worry about running out of power or insufficient memory. The camera comes with two rechargeable 1500 mAh battery with a charger to meet your shooting needs. Furthermore, it has a 32GB SD card perfect for keeping your videos and stunning photos.

Verdict
This is one of the best digital Vlogging cameras in the market today. It comes with a cleaning cloth, a strap and user manual. It comes with two detachable 1.35X wide macro lenses and angle lens.

Pros
  • Comes with two rechargeable batteries to ensure you don’t run out of power
  • It’s supplied with HDMI and USB cables
  • It supports a maximum of 128GB SD Card
  • High video and photo resolution
Cons
  • It doesn’t support RAW format