Looking for an affordable, lightweight video camera? A small video camera is perfect for anyone looking for a quality HD video camera without spending a fortune. It’s easy to use and comes with tons of features that will make capturing your memories easier than ever before.
With this little device, you can capture amazing HD video footage in any situation. Whether you’re on vacation or just video recording a family event, these models of video cameras are up for the task. Plus, they are usually very affordable so you won’t have to break the bank to get one.
How We Choose The Best Small Video Camera
You want to buy a small video camera, but you don't know which one to choose because there are so many different ones on the market.
When it comes to finding the perfect small camera for capturing video, there are a few important aspects to consider. First and foremost, I always look at the image quality. I recommend looking for cameras that include features like high-resolution sensors and wide dynamic range (HDR) capabilities.
Even if you don’t have much technical knowledge of photography, as long as the camera supports 4K-resolution videos, you should be in good shape.
Another important factor is audio quality. Choose a camera that has an external microphone input so that you can use higher-quality microphones for audio recording — this can make all the difference when creating professional-looking videos.
Other specs to look out for include built-in image stabilization, Wi-Fi connectivity, and weight — it’s important to pick a camera that is lightweight enough to easily transport around with you.
I've done the research for you and I've read all the reviews. After careful consideration, I've chosen the top 5 small video cameras that deliver great results without breaking the bank.
MUST BUY: GoPro Hero10 Black
This is My MUST BUY because GoPro has revolutionized the small video camera game ever since the first digital HERO dropped in 2006. But we’re a long way from 2006. Literally. 2006 was 16 years ago.
Think about that. Someone’s baby born in 2006 is having their sweet sixteen this year! Time is crazy! But I digress. The point is, GoPro’s latest Hero, the Hero10 is, by and large, my MUST BUY of the small video camera world.
First of all, no other action camera is powered up with its brand-new GP2 processing engine. This baby is FAST. Second, the image quality has never been better. Shoot 60fps in 5.3K or 120fps in 4K that is insane.
For those who need these numbers simplified, that’s slow motion in incredible quality and SUPER slow motion in also incredible quality. Plus more megapixels than ever when taking photos. And this GoPro is smoother than all the others with their new HyperSmooth 4.0 technology.
So when you’re riding your mountain bike through the rocky mountains, swimming in the great pacific, or chasing your kids chasing your dog in the backyard, you’ll know the image is smooth.
There’s a lot to love about this small video camera and when you check the price on Amazon, you can scroll down and see their side-by-side comparisons with the HERO9 and HERO8. Both of these are absolutely great buys, especially if you’d like to save a little dollar, but the HERO10 is the Ben’s Buys’ MUST BUY of small video cameras.
What You Should Know About The GoPro Hero10 Black
The GoPro Hero10 Black is small but packs a mighty punch. Whether you're shooting from some of the most inhospitable places or capturing top-notch footage that stands out from the crowd, this small video camera will deliver on your demands every single time.
It's equipped with live streaming 1080p resolution, a powerful GP2 processor, and a removable 1720mAh lithium-ion battery that gives you more time to capture all your adventures. Plus, it's waterproof up to 33 feet – perfect for shooting in any environment.
Plus, with its advanced features such as voice control and live streaming capabilities, the Hero 10 is one of the most versatile cameras out there.
So if you're looking for an action camera that can keep up with your active lifestyle and take stunning videos and photos wherever you go, then the GoPro Hero 10 is definitely worth considering.
Here's The Deal
The GoPro Hero 10 Black is an amazing action camera with powerful features, making it one of the best YouTube and travel cameras available. Although the upgrades are relatively conservative, the image quality has been nicely refined from the Hero 9 Black, giving users a more user-friendly experience.
GREAT BUY: Fujifilm x100v Digital Camera
This is My GREAT BUY because The Fujifilm x100v is a small and compact video camera that proves to be a great option for shooting both videos and photos. It's lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go. You don't have to bring around extra lenses either.
Fujifilm put in a new 23mmf2 lens meaning you can see far and wide with that beautiful bokeh if you so very well would like. It’s slim and (dare I say) sexy that gives a high-quality image while looking good in your hands. In fact, I aspire to be a lot like this camera.
Shoot in 4K at 30fps (nice and smooth regular speed) or 120fps slow motion detection (super slow) in full HD 1080 and do it with stunning color options. Fujifilm put 17 digital film simulations into this small video camera that gives you all sorts of creative freedom for whatever you’re shooting.
They’ve upped their autofocus detection with the x-processor 4 and a “new algorithm” to enhance tracking and face and eye detection. We may never understand the algorithms of Instagram and TikTok but we can definitely trust Fujifilm knows what they’re doing.
What You Should Know About The Fujifilm x100v Digital Camera
This is My GREAT BUY because it packs state-of-the-art technology in its small body, like the 23mmF2 lens that lets you take beautiful shots with minimal distortion. What's more, the improved close-focusing performance allows you to get close to your subject like never before.
And if that wasn't enough, even though conditions won't stop you - just attach the weather-sealing protection lens sold separately, and voila - it's ready to go!
But at the core of this small package lies Fujifilm’s X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and its powerful X-Processor 4 combo - a 26.1MP, back-side illuminated force of nature that guarantees amazing results every time.
The Fujifilm X100V is a small video camera that has been created for those who seek to immortalize an experience. With its advanced hybrid viewfinder, you can seamlessly switch between a 0.52x magnification optical viewfinder and a 3.69M-dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder to make sure you capture your desired shooting.
For the best of both worlds, use the electric rangefinder feature to get a mini EVF right within the OVF window. On top of this, use its Full HD/120p setting to record super slow-motion footage so you can relive small moments that would’ve otherwise been missed by the naked eye.
Here's The Deal
Its small, lightweight design makes it ideal for travel, street photography, and everyday use. With its 35mm full-frame equivalent field of view, it strikes the perfect balance between portability and image quality. The stylish look of the camera rounds off the package with all the features you need to capture unforgettable images.
CAN’T GO WRONG BUY: Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II
This is My CAN'T GO WRONG BUY because this small video camera fits perfectly in that category. First of all, it comes in at a cool $600, an incredibly competitive cost for a camera of such functionality. Second, at its widest angle, you can get an aperture value of f/1.8 and f/2.8 fully zoomed in.
Now look these cameras aren’t the same as your high professional lenses that can open to f/1.8 and cost triple what this Powershot does, but 1.8 and 2.8 provide lots of light and give that sweet sweet shallow depth of field we all love to see. For a small video camera, at this price point, achieving any sort of cinematography is a massive Wow!
The screen is a touch screen and tilts which you don’t realize you really need until you need it. Then, you are happy to have it, similar to a life jacket except what makes the Powershot even better… there are no sharks.
What’s even better, this small video camera has great built-in wifi that allows you to connect with their app, transfer your images/videos over asap and share with your friends, family, or that one coworker who really just bothers you and you just want to rub in their face that you do in fact have fun on the weekends, Derek!
What You Should Know About The Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II
This is My CAN’T GO WRONG BUY because, with Canon Power Shot G7 X Mark II's advanced digital capabilities and a 1.0 inch, 20.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, this camera will capture those special moments in all the high quality they deserve.
Also featuring a tile autofocus and manual focus system with an aperture value ranging from f/1.8 to f/2.8 at 24-100 millimeter zoom capabilities – this kit is ready to take on any challenge you throw its way.
Plus, it boasts an operating temperature range of 0 to 40 degrees Celsius which gives any photographer or filmmaker peace of mind when working in diverse weather conditions – and with charging times varying depending on battery power - your creative vision won’t ever be cut off abruptly.
The Canon Powershot small video camera is perfect for shooting action-packed scenes or capturing small details without missing a beat. It has an adjustable LCD monitor that can tilt up 180 degrees and down 45 degrees, giving you the capability to take high and low-angle shots with ease.
Plus, it's packed with Wi-Fi connectivity meaning you can upload your amazing pictures directly to any of your favorite social platforms immediately. With its burst shooting mode, it can shoot up to 8 frames per second – so snap away!
And tucked away neatly into its 33-inch center back length is an adjustable drawcord hood that can be rolled into a collar when you don't need it - unparalleled convenience for all modern-day photographers.
Here's The Deal
The Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II is an excellent choice for photographers and beach-goers alike. Its fast autofocus system ensures blur-free shots even when shooting in low light.
The camera also features a 3" flip-up LCD touchscreen, giving you the ability to frame your shots just the way you like them. All these features combine to make the G7 X Mark II one of the most practical cameras on the market today.
HONORABLE MENTION BUY: Sony AXR700
Well, this small video camera, the Sony AXR700 is an incredible fit in the group of competitors of top dogs like Hero 10. I know it would have been really sweet if I said it is one of the best in that category, however, this camcorder isn’t really a competitor of GoPro as it’s a camcorder.
But it is an incredible product that will fit some of your needs perfectly. See the AXR700 is an amazing point-and-shoot video camera with incredible 4K quality. In fact, the thing reviews say most is how blown away they are with the quality.
These days, when cinema cameras seem to get smaller and smaller, having one that you can pick up with one hand and start filming is remarkable. The cam has lightning-fast autofocus, which is great for a camcorder, and guess what, that super slow motion is built in as well. 120fps FTW!
This small video camera won’t be for everyone, if you want to take photos with your camera or if you want to strap it to your head I probably wouldn’t recommend it.
But if you’re looking to film hunts, sports, vlogs, and mini-movies this cam could be for you. And hey, if you just want super crystal clear family memories that will last a lifetime, the Sony AXR700 is definitely for you.
What You Should Know About The Sony AXR700
If you’re in the market for a small video camera to capture all of life’s special moments, then the Sony AXR700 needs to be on your list.
This small powerhouse sports a whopping 1" (1.0-Type) stacked Exmor RS back Illuminated CMOS sensor and Hybrid AF with 273 points and wide coverage, allowing you to record 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) video in addition to full HD.
The ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 12x optical zoom Lens and 29mm wide-angle guarantees razor-sharp images thanks to the minimum focus Distance of Approx.13/32inch(Wide), Approx.39 3/8inch(Tele), Approx.1cm(Wide), Approx.100cm(Tele).
Its Instant HDR workflow with Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) encoding creates perfect images with ease - while its classy filter diameter of 62mm adds that little extra touch.
These impressive features, that is why this Sony AXR700 is my HONORABLE MENTION BUY for videographers looking for unparalleled quality in a small package.
Here's The Deal
The Sony AXR700 is the ideal choice for videographers who want maximum control over their footage. The camera also boasts excellent low-light performance, making it a great choice for shooting in any environment.
With a wide selection of lenses available, users can expand the possibilities of their footage with telephoto zooms and wide-angle fish-eye lens options. All in all, with its superior image quality, a diverse range of features, and customizability, the Sony AXR700 is the ideal choice for aspiring filmmakers.
SPECIAL BUY: Insta360 ONE RS
This is My SPECIAL BUY because the Insta360 ONE RS is truly special. What makes it so special you might ask. Well, dear reader, this small video camera lets you film in, you guessed it, 360!
Haven’t you seen those cool and super weird videos online of people jumping out of airplanes or riding a bike and you see the whole world around them? Boom 360.
But that’s not all that’s so special about this buy. The Insta360 ONE RS lets you change lenses so ok it comes with its stunning 4k boos lens. 48MP photos, for comparison the GoPro HERO10 has 23MP. There’s a 5.7k 360 lens – which is insane quality and again, 360.
And there’s a 5.3k 1-inch Leica lens so you KNOW it’s gorgeous. And it looks like a cute little cinema lens which is always a plus. Just like the other great action cams, the Insta360 is waterproof (up to 16ft), can shoot in slow-mo (up to 8x), and has its own stabilization process called FlowState.
The last thing I’ll say about this baby is it comes with a Wind Noise Reduction algorithm (another algorithm to trust!). If any of you have used ANY video camera and ANY mic, (in the world) in windy conditions, without proper wind reduction – those little fuzzy things – you know it is the biggest killer of audio since the mute button.
Well pop this Wind Noise Reduction filter on and you will still be able to hear all those celebrations, all those laughs, all those weird exercise grunts all humans emit. So yeah, it’s pretty special.
What You Should Know About The Insta360 ONE RS
Make sure your small video camera captures all the action with the Insta360 ONE RS. This totally rugged and durable camera comes with a brand new 1/2" 48MP image sensor, allowing you to shoot incredibly detailed videos and photos in 4K 60fps.
With FlowState stabilization you don't even need to worry about editing for smooth shots; it's built right into this amazing little cam. Take your small video game photography up a notch with Active HDR and 6K Widescreen mode, or switch out lenses anytime you want with the unique interchangeable lens design.
And that is why this is my SPECIAL BUY, not only is this small camera a piece of cake to use but everything you need is included when you buy: one 4K Boost Lens, one ONE RS Core, one ONE RS Battery Base, and one ONE RS Mounting Bracket.
Here's The Deal
The Insta360 ONE RS is the perfect tool for video shooting. Its advanced features like image correction, time-lapse mode, and up to 8K resolution allow you to take your videos to a whole new level. You won't find a better camera for capturing amazing visuals that will turn heads everywhere.
Best Small Video Camera - FAQs
People are always asking about small video cameras, but there's a lot of confusion out there. It can be tough to choose a great camera due to the fact that there are lots of information out there.
People also ask if a small video camera can be used as a hidden security camera or a spy camera. Well, a hidden camera has to be small, but I'm not talking about that. My passion is shooting great videos.
Maybe in the future, I'll become Agent 007 and will also learn how to detect hidden cameras or spy cameras, but not this year.
This is why we've compiled the list of the most frequently asked questions about small video cameras so that you can make an informed decision before buying them.
What are the benefits of owning a mini camera?
Small video cameras offer many benefits. Unlike hidden cameras, these allow you to capture high-quality videos and photos without the bulk of a bigger camera. They're also incredibly easy to use, with intuitive menus and controls.
Smaller cameras are more portable than larger ones, and also great for travel or outdoor shoots. Finally, they typically have better battery life than larger models, so you can shoot for longer without needing to recharge.
How do I choose the right small video camera?
When choosing a small camera, it's important to consider your needs and budget. Think about what type of videos or photos you want to capture, then look for features that match those needs.
Look for features like 4K resolution, slow-motion capabilities, and low-light performance. Also, consider the size of the camera and its battery life—a small security camera is more portable but may have a shorter battery life than a larger one.
Do all small video cameras have infrared night vision?
No, not all small video cameras have a night vision distance feature. Some cameras do include this feature, but it depends on the model and manufacturer. If you are looking for a camera with night vision capabilities, make sure to check that before making your purchase.
What types of lenses are available for small video cameras?
Small video cameras typically come with a variety of interchangeable lenses. These can range from wide-angle lenses to telephoto zoom lenses, giving you more flexibility when shooting videos or photos. Some models even include specialty lenses such as fisheye and macro lenses, allowing you to capture unique perspectives.
What type of file format should I use to store my small video footage?
The most common file format for small video cameras is MP4. This is a compressed, versatile format that can be easily shared or edited on a computer. Some cameras can also shoot in higher-quality formats such as MOV and AVCHD, although these are typically more difficult to work with.
Which camera is best for travel videos?
Whether you are a professional filmmaker or an amateur videographer, the GoPro Hero 10 is undeniably one of the best cameras for travel videos. Featuring 4K video recording and excellent image stabilization, this camera allows you to capture stunning footage even while on the go.
It also has built-in GPS and Wi-Fi, so you can quickly upload your videos to the web. Plus, its rugged design makes it ideal for exploring difficult terrain. All in all, the GoPro Hero 10 is a great choice for capturing amazing travel videos.
How much memory do I need in a small video camera?
The amount of memory you'll need depends on the resolution and frame rate of your videos. 4K videos generally require more space than 1080p, for example. A 32GB card should be enough for most average users, but if you plan to shoot longer videos or in higher resolutions, consider getting a larger card.
What types of accessories are available for a small video camera?
Many small video cameras come with a variety of accessories that can help you get the best results. For example, The ONE R Twin Edition comes with everything you need to capture stunning 4K footage: one 4K Boost Lens, one ONE RS Core, one ONE RS Battery Base, and one ONE RS Mounting Bracket.
Other popular accessories include external mics, a USB charger, LED lights, and external monitors.
What are the types of small video cameras?
Small cameras come in a variety of styles and designs. Some are designed to be lightweight and portable, while others are more rugged and built to withstand harsher conditions. Depending on your needs, there are several types of these cameras available and they include:
- Action Cameras
- 360° Cameras
- Drone Cameras
- Vlogging Cameras
How do I protect my video camera when filming outdoors?
When shooting outdoors, you'll want to make sure your camera is protected from the elements. Consider using a waterproof or dust-proof case to keep it safe from rain, sand, and dirt.
You may also want to use a sun hood to protect the camera lens from sunlight, as well as an external microphone to reduce wind noise. Finally, make sure you have a secure place to store your camera when not in use.
How do I clean and maintain my video camera?
Cleaning and maintaining your camera is important to keep it in good working order. Start by cleaning the lens with a microfiber cloth or a soft brush, then use a can of compressed air to remove any dust or debris from the body.
Check all cables and connections for any signs of wear and tear, and make sure batteries are stored and charged properly. Finally, protect your camera from extreme temperatures and moisture to prevent damage.
The Best Small Video Camera For You
So, those are our top five picks for the best small video cameras on the market today. We’ve gone over their key features as well as their benefits to help you make an informed decision on which one is right for you and your needs.
Ready to get started? Click on the buttons above to find more details on Amazon.
