A built-in webcam in laptops, computers, and even phone cameras cannot beat a dedicated streaming camera.
A dedicated streaming camera can greatly increase your video content’s quality and production value.
High-quality and visually appealing video content improves your audience’s viewing experience, ultimately leading to more viewers and increased revenue.
A good streaming camera not only provides better image quality, but also has many other important features such as autofocus, noise reduction, and low-light correction that most laptop and desktop cameras lack.
Most importantly, an external camera does not consume the device’s internet bandwidth. This results in smooth playback and reduces lags, which is crucial for streaming podcasts and webisodes.
Specifications of a good streaming camera
Before buying a streaming camera, look for these three essential specifications.
Clean HDMI output
In live streaming, it is crucial that viewers see only the video content, without any user interface elements (UI), such as battery life, webcam model number, brand, streaming time, etc.
The streaming camera you choose should be able to send a clean signal through the HDMI or SDI output that does not contain UI elements.
Search online for “camera model number + clean HDMI output” before purchasing.
Many cameras must be manually set to disable the display of UI elements.
Check your camera’s settings and turn off the display of these elements.
Battery
Podcasts and live vlogs are long content. Sometimes your streaming media can last an hour or more.
Choose a webcam with a powerful, long-lasting battery to ensure unlimited runtime.
Also, get an additional power adapter for the camera and keep it connected when you go live.
Output resolution
A streaming DSLR should support a minimum resolution of 1080p (1920×1080). The higher, the better. However, do not settle for less than 720p (1280×720).
Your laptop or phone’s built-in camera is better suited for streaming if you opt for a lower resolution.
Remember that image quality is as important as your content. A low-quality image will not be received well despite being high-quality content.
In addition to these three characteristics, check other features such as autofocus, light sensitivity, audio path, frame rate, connection type, etc.
Although a stream camera can be more expensive and require more setup and maintenance, it is an investment you should not avoid for you as an influencer.
The modern camera devices featured below have built-in drivers for faster connectivity and support all the specifications listed above. Try them out.
Five Top Film Cameras, Webcams, and Camcorders for Streaming
Canon VIXIA HF G21 Camcorder
The Canon VIXIA HF G21 is premium equipment for professional videographers and full-time influencers.
The camcorder supports high-quality video recording at 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second and features a 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor.
You get a 20x optical zoom lens with a wide focal range and a large aperture that allows you to stream from low-light areas.
The camcorder also features image stabilization, a DIGIC DV 4 image processor, two SD card slots, a built-in stereo microphone, and built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing.
The G21 is one of the few camcorders to feature a touchscreen display and electronic viewfinder.
Final pricing and more specifications can be found here.
Logitech C922 Pro Webcam
The Logitech C922 Pro is a dedicated streaming webcam for videographers and gamers at all levels.
You can stream at a high-definition 1080P resolution and a hyper-fast frame rate of 30-60 frames per second. (A frame rate of 60 frames per second is possible at 720p resolution)
The webcam has a wide-angle lens with 1.2x optical zoom, a 3-megapixel camera, and two microphones on either side of the camera.
It works well in low-light conditions and has auto-focus and light correction features.
Logitech guarantees “superior clarity for any live broadcast on channels like Twitch and YouTube” and other video conferencing and streaming platforms like Skype, Zoom, etc.
And the best part is the free tripod stand included in the package.
You can find the details here.
Sony Alpha A5100 Camera
The Sony Alpha a5100 is a compact mirrorless camera that is best suited for influencers and video novices who travel a lot.
It offers impressive 1080p image quality with a frame rate of up to 60 frames per second and a 24.3-megapixel Exmor APS-C sensor for low-light shooting and color enhancement.
The camera is best known for Sony’s patented fast hybrid autofocus system that supports 179 phase-detection points.
It is also appreciated for a 3-inch 180º tiltable TFT LCD screen, which is especially useful for live streaming and vlogging.
The Alpha A5100 features built-in Wi-Fi and one-touch NFC, a 16-50mm power zoom lens in the L model, and 16-50mm and 55-210mm in the Y model of the series.
With purchase, you get a micro USB cable and shoulder strap for free.
For full specifications and features, click here.
Panasonic HC-V770 Camcorder
The Panasonic HC-V770 is another high-definition camcorder best suited for professionals and full-time videographers.
It offers 1080p (High Dynamic Range) resolution HDR video recording and a 1/2.3-inch BSI MOS sensor for a better and clear image in low-light areas.
The camcorder features a 20x optical zoom lens for long-distance shooting.
The camcorder is the first device to enable second-angle shooting and recording by connecting a smartphone via Wi-Fi.
It also features 5-axis hybrid optical image stabilization, built-in Wi-Fi (does not support NFC), and a powerful microphone.
Disclaimer – Although the HC-V770 is a good choice for high-quality shooting, we would recommend the Canon VIXIA HF G21, which is only a few dollars more expensive than this model, but offers better features.
Click here for the final price.
Mevo Start webcams
The Mevo Start is a lightweight, highly portable streaming webcam designed for influencers and bloggers.
The compact Mevo Start is only 3 inches tall and weighs only 225 grams!
It supports 1080p HD resolution with a 4K sensor, so it can capture very high-quality, crisp video footage.
You also get a 3x digital zoom lens with a wide angle range of 150 degrees. You can connect up to three webcams when streaming to get multiple angles of view.
Mevo Start is the first streaming camera that can be fully controlled via an app. You can switch camera angles and even add graphics and text overlays to your videos while streaming live.
Influencers also widely use it as it supports a 6-hour battery life.
Read this review on The Verge
“Mevo puts the power of a multi-camera setup in your pocket.” – Sean O Kane
It also supports a number of features including 3 MEMS microphone, 802.11AC WI-FI, and a built-in threaded adapter.
For the full list of features, click here.
Conclusion
With the increase in content such as home videos, travel vlogs, and documentary-style productions, there has been an exponential rise in the webcam and camera industry.
According to a recent study published by Grand View Research, Inc. the global webcam market is expected to reach USD 13.93 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period.” (source)
Some of the leading manufacturers such as Logitech, Sony, and Canon have developed devices that offer all-in-one recording and streaming capabilities.
In addition to these established players, many emerging startups such as the aforementioned Mevo are also launching a range of versatile products that make content creation even easier and more productive.
We have reviewed the top 5 streaming camcorder, webcam, and camera models many influencers favor.
For more video recording devices, check out our resources here.
A built-in webcam in laptops, computers, and even phone cameras cannot beat a dedicated streaming camera.
A dedicated streaming camera can greatly increase your video content’s quality and production value.
High-quality and visually appealing video content improves your audience’s viewing experience, ultimately leading to more viewers and increased revenue.
A good streaming camera not only provides better image quality, but also has many other important features such as autofocus, noise reduction, and low-light correction that most laptop and desktop cameras lack.
Most importantly, an external camera does not consume the device’s internet bandwidth. This results in smooth playback and reduces lags, which is crucial for streaming podcasts and webisodes.
Specifications of a good streaming camera
Before buying a streaming camera, look for these three essential specifications.
Clean HDMI output
In live streaming, it is crucial that viewers see only the video content, without any user interface elements (UI), such as battery life, webcam model number, brand, streaming time, etc.
The streaming camera you choose should be able to send a clean signal through the HDMI or SDI output that does not contain UI elements.
Search online for “camera model number + clean HDMI output” before purchasing.
Many cameras must be manually set to disable the display of UI elements.
Check your camera’s settings and turn off the display of these elements.
Battery
Podcasts and live vlogs are long content. Sometimes your streaming media can last an hour or more.
Choose a webcam with a powerful, long-lasting battery to ensure unlimited runtime.
Also, get an additional power adapter for the camera and keep it connected when you go live.
Output resolution
A streaming DSLR should support a minimum resolution of 1080p (1920×1080). The higher, the better. However, do not settle for less than 720p (1280×720).
Your laptop or phone’s built-in camera is better suited for streaming if you opt for a lower resolution.
Remember that image quality is as important as your content. A low-quality image will not be received well despite being high-quality content.
In addition to these three characteristics, check other features such as autofocus, light sensitivity, audio path, frame rate, connection type, etc.
Although a stream camera can be more expensive and require more setup and maintenance, it is an investment you should not avoid for you as an influencer.
The modern camera devices featured below have built-in drivers for faster connectivity and support all the specifications listed above. Try them out.
Five Top Film Cameras, Webcams, and Camcorders for Streaming
Canon VIXIA HF G21 Camcorder
The Canon VIXIA HF G21 is premium equipment for professional videographers and full-time influencers.
The camcorder supports high-quality video recording at 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second and features a 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor.
You get a 20x optical zoom lens with a wide focal range and a large aperture that allows you to stream from low-light areas.
The camcorder also features image stabilization, a DIGIC DV 4 image processor, two SD card slots, a built-in stereo microphone, and built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing.
The G21 is one of the few camcorders to feature a touchscreen display and electronic viewfinder.
Final pricing and more specifications can be found here.
Logitech C922 Pro Webcam
The Logitech C922 Pro is a dedicated streaming webcam for videographers and gamers at all levels.
You can stream at a high-definition 1080P resolution and a hyper-fast frame rate of 30-60 frames per second. (A frame rate of 60 frames per second is possible at 720p resolution)
The webcam has a wide-angle lens with 1.2x optical zoom, a 3-megapixel camera, and two microphones on either side of the camera.
It works well in low-light conditions and has auto-focus and light correction features.
Logitech guarantees “superior clarity for any live broadcast on channels like Twitch and YouTube” and other video conferencing and streaming platforms like Skype, Zoom, etc.
And the best part is the free tripod stand included in the package.
You can find the details here.
Sony Alpha A5100 Camera
The Sony Alpha a5100 is a compact mirrorless camera that is best suited for influencers and video novices who travel a lot.
It offers impressive 1080p image quality with a frame rate of up to 60 frames per second and a 24.3-megapixel Exmor APS-C sensor for low-light shooting and color enhancement.
The camera is best known for Sony’s patented fast hybrid autofocus system that supports 179 phase-detection points.
It is also appreciated for a 3-inch 180º tiltable TFT LCD screen, which is especially useful for live streaming and vlogging.
The Alpha A5100 features built-in Wi-Fi and one-touch NFC, a 16-50mm power zoom lens in the L model, and 16-50mm and 55-210mm in the Y model of the series.
With purchase, you get a micro USB cable and shoulder strap for free.
For full specifications and features, click here.
Panasonic HC-V770 Camcorder
The Panasonic HC-V770 is another high-definition camcorder best suited for professionals and full-time videographers.
It offers 1080p (High Dynamic Range) resolution HDR video recording and a 1/2.3-inch BSI MOS sensor for a better and clear image in low-light areas.
The camcorder features a 20x optical zoom lens for long-distance shooting.
The camcorder is the first device to enable second-angle shooting and recording by connecting a smartphone via Wi-Fi.
It also features 5-axis hybrid optical image stabilization, built-in Wi-Fi (does not support NFC), and a powerful microphone.
Disclaimer – Although the HC-V770 is a good choice for high-quality shooting, we would recommend the Canon VIXIA HF G21, which is only a few dollars more expensive than this model, but offers better features.
Click here for the final price.
Mevo Start webcams
The Mevo Start is a lightweight, highly portable streaming webcam designed for influencers and bloggers.
The compact Mevo Start is only 3 inches tall and weighs only 225 grams!
It supports 1080p HD resolution with a 4K sensor, so it can capture very high-quality, crisp video footage.
You also get a 3x digital zoom lens with a wide angle range of 150 degrees. You can connect up to three webcams when streaming to get multiple angles of view.
Mevo Start is the first streaming camera that can be fully controlled via an app. You can switch camera angles and even add graphics and text overlays to your videos while streaming live.
Influencers also widely use it as it supports a 6-hour battery life.
Read this review on The Verge
“Mevo puts the power of a multi-camera setup in your pocket.” – Sean O Kane
It also supports a number of features including 3 MEMS microphone, 802.11AC WI-FI, and a built-in threaded adapter.
For the full list of features, click here.
Conclusion
With the increase in content such as home videos, travel vlogs, and documentary-style productions, there has been an exponential rise in the webcam and camera industry.
According to a recent study published by Grand View Research, Inc. the global webcam market is expected to reach USD 13.93 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period.” (source)
Some of the leading manufacturers such as Logitech, Sony, and Canon have developed devices that offer all-in-one recording and streaming capabilities.
In addition to these established players, many emerging startups such as the aforementioned Mevo are also launching a range of versatile products that make content creation even easier and more productive.
We have reviewed the top 5 streaming camcorder, webcam, and camera models many influencers favor.
For more video recording devices, check out our resources here.