Last Updated on January 2, 2023
Now high definition content has become a standard for consumers, just imagine how demanding video resolution requirements are in the field of professional filming. Well, to some, video cameras that shoot in full HD may still suffice; however, with the advent of 4K video cameras & 4K camcorders, others may not think the same anymore. Many of the newer 4K models have very advanced HD functionality and are truly a one shop stop for HD and 4K combined. Updates for 2023
If you are a consumer then you may want to look at the best 4K Consumer Camcorders and 4K Digital Cameras otherwise…
If you are one of those looking for the latest 4K movie cameras available today, then have a look the latest Professional 4K Video Cameras below.
The following 4K video cameras are in sections, Professional broadcast Video cameras with SDI, Prosumer Camcorders & Consumer camcorders. Click the Quick Jump below to for the section you want.
The Best 4K Professional Video Cameras & 4k Camcorders
- The Best 4K Professional Video Cameras & 4k Camcorders
- What’s the Best Professional 4K Video Camera with SDI
- What’s the Best 4K Camcorder Consumer
- What’s the Best 4K Prosumer Camcorder
- What’s the Best 4K 60fps Video Camera
- What’s the Best Budget 4k Camcorder
- Guide : Choosing a Professional 4K Video Camera
What’s the Best Professional 4K Video Camera with SDI
These are the Best Camcorders for Live streaming
The first in this list are 4K professional video cameras that have SDI connections making them suitable for broadcast. Each of the video cameras below are the best in our opinion. We like the latest technology with superior mobility and video quality.
Canon XA50 XA55 4K Video Camera
Specification
- 8.29MP, 1″ CMOS Sensor
- 4K UHD 30 fps
- 5 Axis Image Stabalization
- Dual XLR / 3.5mm line in/out
- DIG!C DV 6 processor
- 15x Optical Zoom
- AX55 – HD/3G-SDI
- Dual SD Slots SD/SDHC/SDXC
The Canon XA50 & XA55 are designed to combine the core features of your favorite camcorders with the ability to film in 4K. They are the first models in the XA range to feature a 1.0-type CMOS sensor. These are light versatile video cameras that are great for mobile filming and fast-paced action. All this, along with the professional film production features, makes this a very good camera to take a more detailed look at. The XA45 has a 1/2.3-inch CMOS instead of a 1″ like the XA55. If you are on a budget the XA45 maybe a better choice.
Panasonic HC-X2000 4K Video Camera
Camcorder Specification
- 8.29M 1/2.5″MOS Sensor
- 4K UHD 60FPS
- 120 FHD Slow motion
- Live RTP Streaming
- 24 Optical Zoom
- 3G-SDI
- MP4 MOV AVCHD
- Dual XLR Audio
One of the latest releases from Panasonic is the HC-X2000, now this may not have a 1″ sensor but it appears high in the list as it has a lot to offer. Packed with all the latest live streaming connectivity options along with a SDI output makes this a broadcaster’s dream. If you are looking for the best most portable live streaming 4K video camera available today then the HC-X2000 is it. It’s the newest release on this list and has all the latest technology onboard. Have a look at our review to learn about the full specification and check out the comprehensive video tests.
Canon XF405 Best 4K Video Camera
Camcorder Specification
- 8.29MP, 1″ CMOS Sensor
- 4K UHD 60 fps
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- XLR / 3.5mm line in/out
- DIG!C DV 6 processor
- XF405 – 3G-SDI
- .24″ TFT wide color LCD
- Dual SD Slots SD/SDHC/SDXC
With a 1.0-inch 4K UHD CMOS sensor that can record 4K UHD video at 60fps and slow-motion Full HD video up to 120fps, the XF405 makes a strong case for use in various shooting scenarios be it a creative production or a professional one. The XF range is a step up from the XA’s and has more professional filming functions. Take a look to find out more.
- [PRO FEATURES] WiFi live streaming,...
- [VW-HU1 HANDLE] Includes a detachable...
- [4K RECORDING] 4K 60p recording in a...
- [LEICA DICOMAR LENS] Wide-angle 25mm 24x...
Black Magic URSA Mini 4.6K G2 Video Camera
Camcorder Specification
- Super 35mm Sensor
- 4.6K 120fps
- 4K UHD 150fps
- 4608 x 2592, 4608 x 1920
- HD Up to 300 fps
- 3G 6G 12G-SDI
The URSA Mini Pro 4.6K G2 is a next gen 4k camera with updated electronics and a high-performance 4.6K HDR image sensor for filming at up to 300 fps in HD. It’s got a Super 35mm 4.6K sensor with 15 stops of dynamic range, built-in optical ND filters, interchangeable EF lens mount for optional PL, B4 or F mounts, Blackmagic RAW and ProRes recording to dual CFast or dual SD cards, and an innovative USB-C expansion port for recording directly to external disks. An of course all the broadcast functionality a pro would want.
Sony PXW-Z90 Best 4K Video Camcorder
Camcorder Specification
- 1.0 Exmor RS CMOS sensor
- 4K UHD 30 fps
- XLR / 3.5mm line in/out
- AVC / RTMP / RTMPS Streaming
- 3G-SDI
- 12x optical zoom
- Dual SD Slots SD/SDHC/SDXC
Sony’s PXW-Z90V can record in 4K UHD but is also capable of both slow and quick motion shooting in HD. To allow for recording at different codecs, frame rates, and formats, the PXW-Z90V supports 50 Mb/s up to 59.94p for HD videos and 100 Mb/s XAVC Long recording at up to 29.97p for 4K UHD videos. This camera excels at slow-motion capture and is worth a closer look if that’s important to you.
- ♛【4K UHD Camcorder & 48MP】The 4K...
- ♛【WIFI Function & IR Night...
- ♛【Webcam & Pause Function】The...
- ♛【With Microphone & Lens Hood】The...
JVC GY-HM250 4K30 4K Video Camera
Camcorder Specification
- 12.4MP, 1/2.3 ” CMOS
- 4K UHD 30 fps
- XLR / 3.5mm line in/out
- HD-SDI BNC
- RTMP, MPEG2-TS
- UDP, MPEG2-TS
- TCP, RTSP/RTP, ZIXI
- 12x optical zoom
- Dual SD Slots SD/SDHC/SDXC
This is one of the best 4K camcorders for live streaming to come out. The HM -200/250 has been released alongside the HM-170. The GY-HM200/250 has XLR outputs and the associated features while the GY-HM170 does not. The GY Hm250 is a great 4K camera and it has been priced a bit lower than the Sonys with the same specification.
- Next Gen speed: experience the world’s...
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425...
- Fast & accurate: up to 11Fps continuous...
- Multiple movie functions: make time...
Sony PXW-Z190 XDCAM 4K Pro Video Camera
Camcorder Specification
- 1/3″ Exmor R 3CMOS
- 4K UHD 60 fps
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- XLR / 3.5mm line in/out
- 3G-SDI + Wireless
- .24″ TFT LCD
- Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC
With the 1/3 type 3CMOS sensor onboard you can guarantee you are going to get one of the highest quality 4k image Sony has to offer. This camera is the bigger brother to the popular Z150 that comes with a 1″ sensor. With the PXW-Z190 you get a superior sensor that does make a difference. The Z190 comes with all usual Sony usage and functionality which means its an easy switch from the professional NXCAM HD range from Sony. Many NXCAM users have been pleased with the transition. Take a further look at the review for more details
What’s the Best 4K Camcorder Consumer
When it comes to choosing the best 4K camcorder for you, you need to consider a few things before you start. Is this going to be used for mobile filming or, home filming such as live streaming? A lot of the camcorders in this section are more than capable of meeting the demands of 4k media creation and some are very close to a professional level of output quality. These are the best camcorders for consumers. Click 4K Camcorders to see the full list of 4K camcorders or you can see our top two picks below.
Sony AX43 AX53 4k Camcorder
Camcorder Specification
- 1/2. 5” Exmor CMOS Sensor
- Integrated Gimbal
- 4K UHD 30fps
- ZEISS Vario-Sonnar lens
- Digital Zoom x250
- Fast Intelligent AF
The Sony AX43 and 53 are quite simply the best value for money when it comes to filming in 4K. To be clear the difference between the AX43 and 53 is just the electronic viewfinder, it’s a personal preference. These cameras from Sony offer close to professional video quality along with the brilliant Sony internal gimbal. Outstanding picture, superior stabilization and all in lightweight packages, these are definitely camcorders worth your time.
- 4K1 16: 9 video optimized 1/2. 5”...
- Built-in gimbal - Balanced Optical...
- 20x optical zoom and Clear Image Zoom of...
- Fast Intelligent AF tracks focus to...
Panasonic HC-WXF991K 4K Camcorder
Camcorder Specification
- 1/2.3″ BSI MOS sensor
- Integrated Gimbal
- 4K UHD 30fps
- Built in Twin Camera
- Leica Decoma Lens
- optical 20x zoom
Panasonics offering to the 4K camcorder consumer market is the HC WXF991. This is on par with the Sony AX43 and there is not a lot to choose from between the two. The Panasonic has a picture in picture mode that is very appealing to vloggers, for some people this may be a good option over the Sony. But to be honest, there is very little to choose from between the two, have a look at the reviews, there is enough information in the videos to make a decision.
What’s the Best 4K Prosumer Camcorder
Sitting just above the consumer 4K camcorders in both quality and price are “prosumer” 4k video cameras. These have a professional size 1″ Sensor and have the ability to capture professional like footage without complicated setups. If you want the best 4k quality but do not have the time to become a professional then the cameras below will be ideal for you. There is still a choice to make in regards to audio though. Do you need XLR audio connections for superior sound or not? The GX10 and AX700 don’t have XLR and would be the best choice. If you want a production quality 4k Camcorder without SDI connectivity then the Panasonic HC-X1 is the best you can get.
Canon Vixia GX10 4K 60fps 4k Camcorder
Prosumer 4k Camcorder with high FPS leads
Camcorder Specification
- 8.29MP, 1″ CMOS Sensor
- 4K UHD 60fps
- FULL HD 120fps
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Optical Zoom lens 15x
- Fast Intelligent AF
The Canon Vixia GX10 is an absolute beast of a camera packed into this small form. It comes with a 1″ sensor and like the Sony AX700 is comes with easy automatic settings. This means users can get professional results without much knowledge or time. Ideal for the semi pro. Filming in 4K UHD at 60 fps with a 1″ sensor is the best you can get at the moment.To get a better understanding of how you can produce high-quality 4K film on a budget look at our detailed review. You could just buy now and know you got the best prosumer camera at 60fps 4K UHD. Easy win.
- 1” (1.0-Type) stacked Exmor RS back...
- Incredibly fast, Hybrid AF with 273...
- 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) in addition...
- Instant HDR workflow with Hybrid...
Panasonic HC-X1 60FPS 4k Camcorder
Camcorder Specification
- 1″ Sensor
- 4K DCI 24fps;
- 4K UHD 60fps
- Optical 20X zoom
- 2 X XLR Audio
- Dual SDHC/SDXC Slots
The Panasonic HC-X1 brings 4K Ultra HD recording to a compact, handheld camcorder. It can record both in DCI (4096×2160) and UHD (3840×2160) to SD cards but a U3 or higher card is needed to record videos with bit rates over 100 Mbps. It comes with a 1″ Image sensor and gives you a lot of options when it comes to low light filming. This is one of the best value 4k video cameras out today.
Sony AX 700 UHD Pro 4K Camcorder
Camcorder Specification
- 1” Exmor CMOS Sensor
- Integrated Gimbal
- 4K UHD 30fps
- 26. 8mm2 wide-angle ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T zoom lens
- Digital Zoom x250
- Fast Intelligent AF
The Sony AX700 is the pinnacle in prosumer 4k film. It is quite simply the best in its class. The AX700 is another easy win like the GX10, professional-quality video caught on the run and under many different lighting conditions. There is not a lot between the AX700 and GX10 but the GX10 can goto 4K UHD 60fps whereas the Sony cannot. Many may argue the Sony has superior image stabilization.
- Panasonic AG-UX180 4K Premium...
- 1.0" Type CMOS Sensor - 4K 24P, UHD...
- FHD Slow Motion Recording at 120 FPS -...
- 16-Axis Color Correction Function - 8.8...
Panasonic AG-UX180 4K 60 fps Pro 4K Camcorder
Camcorder Specification
- 1.0-type Sensor
- 4K UHD 60fps
- 4K DCI 24fps
- FHD 120fps
- XLR / 3.5mm line in/out
- 20x optical zoom
- .24″ TFT wide color LCD
- Dual SDHC/SDXC
The Panasonic AG-UX-180 is an answer to videographers looking for a camcorder that can meet professional 4K video production needs. While the 1.0-type sensor is smaller than a full-frame or APS-C, cinematic effects can still be achieved with the UX-180. With high-end functions and specifications, the UX-180 is highly suited for professional camera work.
What’s the Best 4K 60fps Video Camera
If you are looking for a 4k video camera that can film up to 60fps then we have a list for that. Currently, there are about a dozen 4k video cameras that we consider good enough at filming at 4K 60fps & HD 120fps. Have a look at this to see the Best 4K60 Video Cameras.
- Advanced Optical Image Stabilizer...
- Supports 4K, UHD, FHD; 60p/50p/25p/24p
- High performance LEICA DICOMAR 4K Lens...
- 2 channel XLR, Audio, Wired/Wireless...
4K60 Full list
What’s the Best Budget 4k Camcorder
There are a number of good value budget 4k camcorders that have plenty of reviews. There is enough information on these good value camcorders for you to digest. We have used 2 budget camcorders for throwaway projects and they performed better than we expected. Have a look a these if you are after 4K budget >>>>>>
- Get in Close and Detail: 18.91 Megapixel...
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- HDR Movie Feature: Exclusive...
- 🎥【ULTRA 4K VIDEO CAMERA CAMCORDER...
- 🎥【IR NIGHT VISION & WEBCAM...
- 🎥【2 BATTERIES & REMOTE CONTROL】...
- 🎥【 MULTIFUNCTION 4K VIDEO CAMERA...
Guide : Choosing a Professional 4K Video Camera
Although anyone can own a professional 4K camcorder, the equipment is best left to the hands of the pros. It is designed for a specific purpose, after all, and using it accordingly can make a huge difference. While consumer cameras are designed with a home-user in mind, a professional camera is intended for someone who uses it as a tool to generate income or produce high quality videos. It is what you need when you want videos with uncompromising quality.
Construction-wise, professional camcorders tend to have everything bigger and better. It is generally larger in size, with larger video sensors and lenses. It also comes with interchangeable lenses, wireless microphones and other features necessary to record excellent videos.
When it comes to price, expect pro cameras to be on the pricey side. The more expensive it is the more features and technologies you get to play with. Within the $2,500 and $5,500 price range, for example, you can choose from a wide range of cameras that not only meets specialty production needs, but also solid all-around recording requirements. Cameras in this price range are likely to have image stabilization, 1-inch CMOS sensor, detachable handle, 64GB internal flash memory, and slow and fast speed settings.
But because price is not the only determining factor to consider, choosing a professional 4K camcorders must be done with careful consideration of various factors.
Your Skill Level
Someone may be considered a pro, but still a long way away from the likes of the big names in the production industry. Although there’s no stopping you from buying the more advanced equipment, you should seriously reconsider your skill levels. Professional camcorders are built for specific skill levels, and using the right one can spell the difference between a good and bad investment. If you fall under the entry and intermediate skill level, choose a 4K camcorder that will produce excellent videos and provide professional-quality audio. A good example is the FDR-AX700 from Sony. It not only lets you capture 4K videos, but also in Full HD 1920×1080 video in XAVC-S, AVCHD, web-optimized MP4, and other recording options. You can take cinematic shots and take advantage of Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, NFC support, built-in WiFi and 12x optical zoom lens.
When you are in the advanced level, look for a product that lets you record true 4K resolution video at up to 50 and 60 fps. If you are still transitioning to 4K, there is also a device that will help you do this with ease. It is just a matter of understanding how a device will match your skill level.
Ease of Use
Regardless of how long you have been in the film industry, some equipment could still surprise you in terms of functions and features. In some cases, you could end up frustrated what with the learning curve you have to go through just to manipulate the menu. So, even if you are a professional, see that a professional 4K camcorder does not require prior skill and knowledge just to work out the controls or understand the menu. Settings must not be buried under layers of other features, leading you to a maze of menus.
There are also instances when a button or dial is completely useless, which can ruin anybody’s day. Ideally, you should be able to figure out how to use a camcorder a few minutes after you’ve taken it out of the box. Otherwise, you might as well ship it back to the manufacturer.
4k Video Quality
The reason that a professional 4K camcorder is bigger than its consumer counterpart is because it has to have a larger version of most features, from the sensor to the lenses. Bigger lenses, for example, will help ensure that a camera will have better low light performance and light gathering. This is especially important when the camcorder is used for documentaries and full-length movies.
But what sets a pro camera apart is that image quality can be set really high at the expense of other features. At least, a professional will know what adjustments to make to achieve the best results. For example, a video in astonishing detail and color can be produced to compensate for the amount of storage space it consumes.
Compatibility
Most professional 4K camcorders don’t come cheap, so it is important that you can make the most of it. Aside from 4K resolution and excellent video quality, the camera you choose must work with other professional tools as well. Even with a built-in microphone, for instance, you might need external equipment for better audio pick up. In this case, you would have to use an XLR microphone. If your camera is incompatible with it, you could be inconvenienced just looking for a substitute or a workaround.
You also need to take into account tools for editing, playing and converting 4K videos. In all likelihood, you will need hardware that can process 4K files quickly and easily. Because the file sizes are almost always large, you must have an i7 computer with 8-core CPU and SSD. The 4K video converter you choose must also enable you to easily import AVCHD and then convert it just as conveniently to a variety of formats, such as 1080p or 720p, so it can be played on different mobile devices.
Budget
When it comes to deciding what is the best 4k Video Camera , it would seem like you will pay a price for every capability that comes with it. Products that cost as much as $1,500, for example, have excellent features but with a few sacrifices. It is vital then that you choose an item that fulfills a requirement that matters most to you. But even if you can afford to buy just about anything, you still run the risk of buying something that is not entirely useful. So which budget should you target? The better question would be which camera is best suited for you? It all goes back to checking the features that give you the best returns. If you happen to find a less expensive camera that meets your production needs, you can then pocket the difference of your original budget.
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