A professional camera can make all the difference when it comes to captivating your audience in a live stream.
It gives your content the skillful touch it deserves.
By contrast, a laptop’s built-in camera and microphone offer mediocre picture and sound quality.
Live streaming cameras are designed specifically for live streaming, with features like live autofocus, low-light performance, and direct connections to streaming platforms.
They offer high-quality video and audio with advanced image stabilization technology, higher frame rates, and better audio quality.
As a streamer, it’s important that you choose a camera that fits both your needs and budget and delivers high-quality video to your viewers.
Below are some specifications you should consider when choosing a good camera.
What to look for in a live streaming camera
The most important thing to remember is that higher resolution provides better video quality. Opt for a 1080p or higher camera for a crisp and clear stream.
A high frame rate provides smooth, uninterrupted footage, and 60 FPS is ideal for live streaming.
Also, check the camera’s color accuracy, low-light performance, and autofocus capabilities.
Consider accessories like lenses and battery adapters that can improve your camera’s performance.
Choose a camera that’s easy to transport, especially if you’re streaming on the go.
And lastly, make sure the camera is compatible with your setup and easy to install with plug-and-play features.
Continue reading to find some of the best live-streaming cameras to help you create high-quality content that will wow your viewers.
The 10 Best Cameras for Live Streaming
Logitech StreamCam: The Perfect Camera for Streamers
The Logitech StreamCam is a great option for streamers in all niches..
With features like face detection and autofocus for subject tracking, you’ll always be right on target.
It features a fast 60 frames per second frame rate. Plus, the camera has automatic exposure settings to ensure you’re always well-lit.
Streaming is accelerated by Logitech’s Capture software, which is available on both Windows and Mac.
The camera has a variety of mounting options that make it easy to position it at the ideal angle.
However, the short, non-removable USB-C cable is its only drawback.
Sony A7 III – Best Professional Mirrorless Camera
The Sony A7 offers an incredible 4K UHD streaming and a 693-point system AF with fast response.
It offers a wide ISO range with a minimum setting of 50 ISO and a remarkable dynamic range and low-light performance.
It also offers additional convenience features, such as the ability to charge the battery in the camera via USB.
The camera’s lightweight and portable design makes it easy to transport.
MEVO Start – Wireless Camera for Live Conferencing
The Logitech Mevo Start offers seamless connectivity and wireless streaming.
It has top-notch built-in microphones that pick up audio from long distances and ensure excellent sound quality.
You can stream wirelessly with Wi-Fi integration and connect via USB-C if you don’t have enough battery.
Its USP is the Mevo Camera or Mevo Multicam app that lets you control your stream’s settings and switch between recordings during the broadcast.
The only drawback is its limited 2.3x zooming capability.
Logitech C922 Pro – Best Budget Camera
This versatile webcam is perfect for those who want to expand their existing streaming base or those who are just starting out.
The camera streams live in 1080p full HD resolution at 30 frames per second, and also has a ‘Hyperfast” mode for streaming at 720p at 60 frames per second.
With this camera, you get a free three-month license for Xsplit streaming software.
The omnidirectional camera records two things simultaneously, and the dual microphones provide excellent sound quality.
It comes with an 18.5 cm tripod and a 78-degree wide-angle lens.
Also, you can clamp the camera to the top of your TV or PC monitor, or mount it on a tripod for more creative angles and cropping.
Logitech C922x Pro
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The Elgato Facecam – a simple but High-Quality Webcam
The Elgato Facecam is a good choice even without a built-in microphone, as it offers high-quality video output.
With an 82-degree field of view and 1080p video at 60 frames per second, the camera gives you high-resolution wide-angle footage.
You can adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and white balance with easy-to-control settings.
It also has a USB 3.0 or USB-C port for fast data transfer.
Although it is a bit costly compared to models like the Logitech C922 Pro, it is worth the cost.
Razer Kiyo – Best Built-in Light
The Razer Kiyo is a popular camera because of its built-in ring light feature which provides great lighting for your streams.
Video quality is also excellent, with full HD recording and a maximum resolution of 1920x1080p.
At 1080p, the camera offers a frame rate of 30 frames per second and can record 60 frames per second at HD 720 resolution.
With a field of view of 81.6°, you can easily capture everything in your surroundings.
Microsoft LifeCam HD 3000 – Best Budget Webcam
The camera is ideal for those who want to start streaming with a minimal budget.
Despite its affordable price, the camera offers automatic face tracking, low-light correction, and high-definition 720p, 30 frames per second quality.
It has a built-in microphone with noise cancellation and is compatible with most computer monitors.
GoPro Hero10 Black: The Best Action Camera
The GoPro Hero10 Black is a good choice if you’re looking for a camera that can handle fast-paced live-action scenes.
It is also ideal for action enthusiasts who want to live stream their adventures.
It supports 1080p live streaming and is compatible with popular platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook.
Moreover, this camera’s HyperSmooth 4.0 image stabilization system ensures that your footage remains non-shaky even during vigorous activities.
In addition to exceptional image quality and ease of use, this action camera offers a rugged and compact design.
PS5 HD Camera – Expand your PS5 Streaming Setup
For PlayStation 5 gamers looking to enhance their streaming, the PS5 HD camera is the ideal choice.
This camera has built-in background removal tools to crop or automatically remove your background for a more professional look.
The seamless connection with the console lets you quickly start recording or streaming with a button on the DualSense control pad.
And with the picture-in-picture broadcast feature, you can showcase your content on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III – Best Compact Camera
G7 X Mark 3 is a pocket-sized camera with live streaming capabilities.
With its fast continuous shooting speeds, high dynamic range, the flip-up touchscreen on the back LCD, it is the ideal choice for beginner Vloggers.
You can shoot 4k footage without cropping and connect an external microphone via the 3.5mm port.
Although it does not have a viewfinder, it’s a great tool for streamers who rely on the LCD screen.
Final thoughts
In recent years, the amount of time spent on video-based activities has skyrocketed.
Because of social media live streams, Twitch events, vlogging, YouTube channels, and video calls, video content has become an essential part of everyday life.
And for this reason, the professional live streaming cameras market is steadily increasing.
According to a report from Vantage Market Research, the global streaming cameras market was valued at USD 988 million in 2021, and it’s forecast to reach USD 4290 million by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.50%.
For successful live streaming, having the right camera is critical to creating content that captures viewers’ attention.
Whether you are a professional streamer or just starting out, investing in a high-quality camera makes all the difference.
From the pocket-sized Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III to the full-frame Sony A7 III, the cameras on this list offer a range of features to suit your needs. For other good streaming equipment, check our resource library here.
A professional camera can make all the difference when it comes to captivating your audience in a live stream.
It gives your content the skillful touch it deserves.
By contrast, a laptop’s built-in camera and microphone offer mediocre picture and sound quality.
Live streaming cameras are designed specifically for live streaming, with features like live autofocus, low-light performance, and direct connections to streaming platforms.
They offer high-quality video and audio with advanced image stabilization technology, higher frame rates, and better audio quality.
As a streamer, it’s important that you choose a camera that fits both your needs and budget and delivers high-quality video to your viewers.
Below are some specifications you should consider when choosing a good camera.
What to look for in a live streaming camera
The most important thing to remember is that higher resolution provides better video quality. Opt for a 1080p or higher camera for a crisp and clear stream.
A high frame rate provides smooth, uninterrupted footage, and 60 FPS is ideal for live streaming.
Also, check the camera’s color accuracy, low-light performance, and autofocus capabilities.
Consider accessories like lenses and battery adapters that can improve your camera’s performance.
Choose a camera that’s easy to transport, especially if you’re streaming on the go.
And lastly, make sure the camera is compatible with your setup and easy to install with plug-and-play features.
Continue reading to find some of the best live-streaming cameras to help you create high-quality content that will wow your viewers.
The 10 Best Cameras for Live Streaming
Logitech StreamCam: The Perfect Camera for Streamers
The Logitech StreamCam is a great option for streamers in all niches..
With features like face detection and autofocus for subject tracking, you’ll always be right on target.
It features a fast 60 frames per second frame rate. Plus, the camera has automatic exposure settings to ensure you’re always well-lit.
Streaming is accelerated by Logitech’s Capture software, which is available on both Windows and Mac.
The camera has a variety of mounting options that make it easy to position it at the ideal angle.
However, the short, non-removable USB-C cable is its only drawback.
Sony A7 III – Best Professional Mirrorless Camera
The Sony A7 offers an incredible 4K UHD streaming and a 693-point system AF with fast response.
It offers a wide ISO range with a minimum setting of 50 ISO and a remarkable dynamic range and low-light performance.
It also offers additional convenience features, such as the ability to charge the battery in the camera via USB.
The camera’s lightweight and portable design makes it easy to transport.
MEVO Start – Wireless Camera for Live Conferencing
The Logitech Mevo Start offers seamless connectivity and wireless streaming.
It has top-notch built-in microphones that pick up audio from long distances and ensure excellent sound quality.
You can stream wirelessly with Wi-Fi integration and connect via USB-C if you don’t have enough battery.
Its USP is the Mevo Camera or Mevo Multicam app that lets you control your stream’s settings and switch between recordings during the broadcast.
The only drawback is its limited 2.3x zooming capability.
Logitech C922 Pro – Best Budget Camera
This versatile webcam is perfect for those who want to expand their existing streaming base or those who are just starting out.
The camera streams live in 1080p full HD resolution at 30 frames per second, and also has a ‘Hyperfast” mode for streaming at 720p at 60 frames per second.
With this camera, you get a free three-month license for Xsplit streaming software.
The omnidirectional camera records two things simultaneously, and the dual microphones provide excellent sound quality.
It comes with an 18.5 cm tripod and a 78-degree wide-angle lens.
Also, you can clamp the camera to the top of your TV or PC monitor, or mount it on a tripod for more creative angles and cropping.
The Elgato Facecam – a simple but High-Quality Webcam
The Elgato Facecam is a good choice even without a built-in microphone, as it offers high-quality video output.
With an 82-degree field of view and 1080p video at 60 frames per second, the camera gives you high-resolution wide-angle footage.
You can adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and white balance with easy-to-control settings.
It also has a USB 3.0 or USB-C port for fast data transfer.
Although it is a bit costly compared to models like the Logitech C922 Pro, it is worth the cost.
Razer Kiyo – Best Built-in Light
The Razer Kiyo is a popular camera because of its built-in ring light feature which provides great lighting for your streams.
Video quality is also excellent, with full HD recording and a maximum resolution of 1920x1080p.
At 1080p, the camera offers a frame rate of 30 frames per second and can record 60 frames per second at HD 720 resolution.
With a field of view of 81.6°, you can easily capture everything in your surroundings.
Microsoft LifeCam HD 3000 – Best Budget Webcam
The camera is ideal for those who want to start streaming with a minimal budget.
Despite its affordable price, the camera offers automatic face tracking, low-light correction, and high-definition 720p, 30 frames per second quality.
It has a built-in microphone with noise cancellation and is compatible with most computer monitors.
GoPro Hero10 Black: The Best Action Camera
The GoPro Hero10 Black is a good choice if you’re looking for a camera that can handle fast-paced live-action scenes.
It is also ideal for action enthusiasts who want to live stream their adventures.
It supports 1080p live streaming and is compatible with popular platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook.
Moreover, this camera’s HyperSmooth 4.0 image stabilization system ensures that your footage remains non-shaky even during vigorous activities.
In addition to exceptional image quality and ease of use, this action camera offers a rugged and compact design.
PS5 HD Camera – Expand your PS5 Streaming Setup
For PlayStation 5 gamers looking to enhance their streaming, the PS5 HD camera is the ideal choice.
This camera has built-in background removal tools to crop or automatically remove your background for a more professional look.
The seamless connection with the console lets you quickly start recording or streaming with a button on the DualSense control pad.
And with the picture-in-picture broadcast feature, you can showcase your content on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III – Best Compact Camera
G7 X Mark 3 is a pocket-sized camera with live streaming capabilities.
With its fast continuous shooting speeds, high dynamic range, the flip-up touchscreen on the back LCD, it is the ideal choice for beginner Vloggers.
You can shoot 4k footage without cropping and connect an external microphone via the 3.5mm port.
Although it does not have a viewfinder, it’s a great tool for streamers who rely on the LCD screen.
Final thoughts
In recent years, the amount of time spent on video-based activities has skyrocketed.
Because of social media live streams, Twitch events, vlogging, YouTube channels, and video calls, video content has become an essential part of everyday life.
And for this reason, the professional live streaming cameras market is steadily increasing.
According to a report from Vantage Market Research, the global streaming cameras market was valued at USD 988 million in 2021, and it’s forecast to reach USD 4290 million by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.50%.
For successful live streaming, having the right camera is critical to creating content that captures viewers’ attention.
Whether you are a professional streamer or just starting out, investing in a high-quality camera makes all the difference.
From the pocket-sized Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III to the full-frame Sony A7 III, the cameras on this list offer a range of features to suit your needs. For other good streaming equipment, check our resource library here.