Looking for the best DSLR for video and vlogging or basic filmmaking needs? Shopping for your first DSLR camera can get overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Ideally, the best entry-level DSLR for video should have a simple, user-friendly interface and intuitive controls for foolproof operation, and of course, the basic camera features that you’ll need to shoot crisp, clear videos.
When choosing the best DSLR camera for video, make sure to buy one that’s not only easy to handle and work with but also packed with the specific video recording features that you need.
Feature to Consider in the Best DSLR for Video:
- HD video resolution (4K or 1080p)
- Articulating screen
- Built-in image stabilization
- Advanced manual and autofocus options
- High frame rate
- Recording length
- Microphone input
- Clean HDMI out
What is the best DSLR for video?
Now that you know the features you need in a DSLR camera to ensure that it takes great videos, let’s talk about your choices. But before we get into that, do keep in mind that even the best budget DSLR cameras may not have all the video features you’re looking for. 4K UHD video, for example, is available only in the more expensive, high-end cameras. Also, if you’re strictly a Nikon or Canon fan, you won’t find in-body stabilization in any of their cameras—which means you’ll have to invest in a good tripod (try a budget tripod if you don’t want to spend too much) or a camera lens with built-in image stabilization if you want to avoid camera shake while shooting videos.
All things considered, below are our top picks among the best entry-level DSLR cameras for shooting video.
Canon EOS 90D
The Canon EOS 90D is one of the best DSLR video cameras. The 90D comes with a 32.5 megapixel APS-C sensor and a DIGIC 8 image processor for sharper, and quicker image output. The camera is fitted with a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system and an AF area coverage of 88% of the horizontal frame and 100% of the vertical frame. While shooting video, creators will notice acute and consistent focus, even with fast moving subjects.
Check out our first look at the Canon EOS 90D with Nathan Lee Allen for a more in-depth peek.
Key Features:
- 32.5 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- DIGIC 8 image processor
- 45-point all cross-type AF system
- AF area coverage of 88% by 100%
- EOS Intelligent Tracking and Recognition System
- Electronic shutter with speeds up to 1/16,000sec
- WiFi and Bluetooth compatibility
Nikon D500
The Nikon D500 is a capable and lightweight camera for video creators. The DSLR records video in up to 1080/60p and 4K/30p with in-camera 4K time-lapse ability. The D500 includes some professional-level features such as uncompressed HDMI output, and Auto ISO smoothing that will adjust ISO in changing light conditions to avoid poor exposure. The Nikon’s AF system contains 153-points for quick and accurate focusing and can be monitored from the 3.2 inch LCD touchscreen.
Key Features:
- New 20.9 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor
- 4K/30p video recording
- ISO up to 51200
- 10fps burst shooting
- Uncompressed HDMI output
- Auto ISO smoothing
- 153-point AF system
- 3.2 inch LCD touchscreen monitor
Canon EOS Rebel SL3
The EOS Rebel SL3 is Canon’s lightest and smallest DSLR, but doesn’t lose useful video features. The SL3 comes with a 24.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detection AF for a precise and high-quality image. Users can record video in 4K/24p or in HD at different frame rates. The Rebel SL3 also has Creative Assist mode that lets users adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation and view the effects in real time.
Check out our first look at the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 with Allyson Berger to learn more about this powerful camera.
Key Features:
- 24.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detection AF
- Video recording in 4K/24p
- 4K timelapse and Creative Assist mode
- ISO of 100-25600
- 3.0 inch LCD vari-angle touchscreen
- Lightest and smallest Canon EOS DSLR
Canon EOS Rebel T7
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a cost-friendly, beginner DSLR. Users get a 24.1 megapixel APS-C sensor with a DIGIC 4+ image processor and a 9-point AF system. The Rebel T7 comes with Scene Intelligent Mode that analyzes colors, contrast, brightness, subjects, and more to deliver accurate exposure automatically. With built-in WiFi and NFC capability, creators can quickly share content to other devices or printers.
Key Features:
- 24.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- DIGIC 4+ image processor
- 9-point AF system
- Video recording in 1080/30p
- Continuous shooting up to 3.0 fps
- Scene Intelligent Mode
- Built-in WiFi and NFC capability
- 3.0 inch LCD monitor
Nikon D5600
The Nikon D5600 is an easy-to-use and convenient shooting option for beginners. Creators can record video in full HD up to 60 frames, and the built-in HDR option supplies the picture with a wide dynamic range. The D5600’s AF system has 39 points to keep your subject in focus, and the stepping motor is near-silent when adjusting focus. Users can take advantage of the SnapBridge feature, which allows for remote controlling of the D5600 and immediate sharing of images and videos to other devices.
Key Features:
- 24.2 megapixel sensor
- EXPEED image processor
- 1080/60p video recording
- 39 autofocus points
- Near-silent autofocus with stepping motor
- Up to 5fps burst shooting
- Max ISO 25,600
- Built-in HDR
- SnapBridge remote controlling and sharing
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
The 6D Mark II might be the best DSLR for video on the list thanks to its continuous autofocus capabilities. Objects and subjects stay in sharp focus thanks to a Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Phase Detection and a 45-point cross type AF system. On top of this, the 26.2 megapixel full frame sensor combined with the DIGIC 7 image processor create vivid and detailed images, even in low light conditions. Users can record video in full HD up to 60p and monitor from the 3.0 inch LCD vari-angle touchscreen.
Check out the first look of the Canon 6D Mark II with Rick Sammon.
Key Features:
- 26.2 megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Phase Detection
- 45-point cross type AF
- DIGIC 7 Image processor
- ISO range 100-40000
- Video recording in 1080/60p
- 3.0” vari-angle touchscreen
Pentax K-70
The Pentax K-70 is an affordable and durable DSLR option that also comes with a few advanced features. The K-70 has a straightforward user interface, WiFi capability for quick-and-easy image sharing, and is dustproof and weather-resistant for the adventurous creator. The more advanced features include 4K interval shooting, multiple exposure shooting, and Star Stream. Interval shooting allows for 3 second to 24 hour intervals for stills, and the multiple exposure feature can composite anywhere between 2-2000 different shots. Lastly, Star Stream captures the movement of stars across the night sky.
Key Features:
- 24.2 megapixel APS sensor
- ISO max of 204,800
- Pentax Shake Reduction stabilization
- Advanced shooting options
- Dustproof and weather-resistant
- WiFi capability
Nikon D3500
The Nikon D3500 is a slightly scaled back – and more affordable – version of the aforementioned D5600 and is designed for entry-level creators. The D3500 comes with a 24.2 megapixel DX-format sensor and an EXPEED 4 image processor. The DSLR can record in full HD in a range of frame rates and capture continuous photos in up to 5fps. The D3500 is easy to carry along for a day trip, and is compatible with Nikon’s SnapBridge app for instant content sharing.
Key Features:
- 24.2 megapixel DX-format sensor
- EXPEED 4 image processor
- 1080/60p video recording
- 11 autofocus points
- Continuous shooting up to 5fps
- ISO range of 100-25,600
- Nikon SnapBridge App
- Lightweight and comfortable
Why Use a DSLR Camera for Video
Compared to professional video cameras, DSLRs are more compact, more flexible, more cost-efficient, and easier to operate. DSLRs can even deliver the same level of video quality, which is why a good number of vloggers and filmmakers are now opting to use DSLR cameras to shoot videos. If you’re just starting out as a vlogger or filmmaker, then it’s best to consider an entry-level DSLR as your very first video camera.
