The introduction of easily accessible digital video has opened the doors for a new type of film maker. With some quick research and an affordable camera, anyone can create great videos on their own, while still having access to professional-level technology.
The “best professional video camera 2021” is a type of camera that can be used by anyone. The prosumer cameras are generally more affordable than the high-end cameras, but still produce high quality images and videos.
With their high-resolution video capture and excellent codecs, consumer camcorders are changing filmmaking.
A nice prosumer may be a stepping stone to your amazing filmmaking profession if you have a talent for creating movies.
They support a variety of sophisticated recording formats often used by professional filmmakers.
Rather of shooting boring film in autofocus, it allows you to have fun with your gear. However, only the greatest prosumer video camera can restore your content’s originality!
Prosumers allow for manual adjustments from top to bottom, encouraging you to experiment with new camera techniques on a daily basis!
So, if you’re weary of your current camera’s preset shooting settings, a terrific prosumer from our list would undoubtedly spice things up!
In 2021, the top 5 consumer camcorders
Prosumer camcorders, whether you like them or not, offer a lot of appealing features that a DSLR lacks. If you have a DSLR, read our review of the five most recent prosumer cameras at your own peril. Prosumers create high-resolution home movies with amazing cinematic controls!
1. Canon XA35 Camcorder (Professional)
Canon offers a variety of unique alternatives for capturing live-action footage with a high-end camcorder. The Canon XA32, for example, has a 20x HD zoom lens and a robust HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor. It gives you a lot of creative power over capturing high-definition video clips.
It offers Full HD recording at high bit rates in both MP4 and AVCHD codecs. This Canon camera can record in both formats (at different bit sizes and frame rates!) so you don’t lose any material and can upload Youtube-ready MP4 files at the same time.
The 10Bit 4:2:2 Chroma Subsampling provides clean video with a lot of color information. Furthermore, its native 24p video format is ideal for adding theatrical effects to your first home movie, as well as many more to come!
The XA35 contains two 48V phantom-powered XLR audio inputs and one stereo mic for excellent sound quality. It captures 16-bit PCM audio with automatic to manual gain control from your side. You may also use an external microphone while filming outside!
The camera successfully transmits live news in amazing detail using 5GHz dual-band Wi-Fi. Your iPhone now doubles as a remote control thanks to its wireless connectivity, allowing you to make quick adjustments to the zoom, shutter speed, gain, aperture, and focus!
Pros
- Canon’s 20x HD zoom lens has a high-resolution CMOS image sensor.
- Videos in full HD 1920x1080p with new Wide DR Gamma and Highlight Priority modes
- For professional cinematography, its native 24p video recording is ideal.
- Camera shaking and picture distortion are corrected by the strong IS modes.
- FTP file transfer is supported for live streaming through 5GHz Dual-Band Wi-Fi.
- With its infrared emitter, it also provides superb low-light and nighttime shooting.
Cons
- The viewfinder is a little on the tiny side.
- At times, there may be a tiny backfocus.
2. Canon XF400 Camcorder (Professional)
Canon XF400 is fine-tuned in every element for creating amazing video reconstructions as a prosumer camcorder with the same cost as a professional film-equipment. maker’s
In comparison to the Canon XA35, which has a 2.91 Megapixel HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor, the XF400 has an 8.29 Megapixel 4K UHD CMOS sensor. The color detection on this super-sized 1-inch sensor is much superior than the XA35. This prosumer camera may be used to make movies, record, and live stream for your Youtube channel.
Moving on, it is widely considered to be the greatest prosumer 4K video camera, recording 4K UHD and FHD footage to dual memory card slots. The 5-axis image stabilization on the Canon XF400 is the same as it was on the XA35. However, the XA35’s native 24p recording codec didn’t do credit to capturing action footage. If you enjoy precise action sequences, its motion blurs, which are currently passed off as camera effects, won’t cut it.
Fortunately for you, the Canon XF400 shoots 4K footage at 60p, giving your home movies an action movie feel. 60 frames per second is a good frame rate for 4K since it makes the whole movie seem considerably smoother.
Overall, if you want to capture 4K films and record live sports with your camcorder, this Canon prosumer is a great choice. Its HDMI 2.0 terminal transforms 4K UHD 60p video data to DNx and ProRes codecs, making post-production editing a breeze.
Although the XF400 has built-in Wi-Fi, it also comes with a WL-D89 remote control for controlling key camera features from a distance. As you could expect based on our Canon XF400 review, it would be an excellent investment for you.
Pros
- For 4K video recording, a 1-inch 8.29 Megapixel 4K UHD CMOS sensor is used.
- 60p recording captures action movies in stunning detail.
- Dual-Pixel AutoFocus and 5-axis picture stabilization
- 4K UHD at 60p and FHD slow-mo movies at 120fps are recorded.
- For creative filmmaking, dual DIGIC DV 6 image processors are used.
Cons
- The manual focus ring is sluggish.
- Changing white balance when recording is difficult.
3. Canon XF100 Professional Camcorder with 10x HD Video Lens Canon XF100 Professional Camcorder with 10x HD Video Lens
The Canon XF100 camcorder has the best-in-class specifications for a budget camcorder, so you can get started shooting right now! It has a 10x HD lens, a tiny flash, and a lightweight body for shooting in the outdoors while handed.
You’ll be happy with the XF100 whether you’re searching for a solo camcorder or a companion to the more professional XF400. First and foremost, this prosumer camcorder is one of the most dependable camcorders for use with third-party filmmaking equipment. We enjoy the high-definition videos it produces, which are quite comparable to those produced by the Canon XF400.
Its button controls are simple to learn for any beginning or semi-pro filmmaker. Furthermore, its MPEG2 50mbs 4:2:2 chroma codec results in improved color accuracy.
With its Auto settings, this prosumer HD video camera will cover and rectify any flaws you may have throughout the shot. However, you may not always be satisfied with the final picture and video representation.
Don’t worry; one of the reasons we appreciate the Canon prosumer camcorder range is that each camera control may be adjusted manually. What better way to learn the ropes of filmmaking than this?
In summary, the Canon XF100 features some of the XF400 and XA35’s top-tier specifications. The budget-friendly prosumer makes up for it with superb low-light photography, despite the fact that it doesn’t shoot in 4k quality.
Pros
- When compared to other codecs, its 4.2.2 chrome color sampling provides accurate color reproduction.
- A 3.5-inch viewfinder makes filming and composing easier.
- Infrared mode captures fine details in low-light situations.
- Two CF card slots are included for additional memory.
Cons
- Onboard audio is average.
- There is no internal memory.
4. JVC GY-HM150U Compact Handheld Pro-HD Camcorder (JVC GY-HM150U Compact Handheld Pro-HD Camcorder)
JVC provides a great prosumer camcorder for your next movie if you’re seeking for handheld filming equipment. The top-of-the-line Native MOV recording format is supported by the GY-HM150U. It’s one of the greatest prosumer camcorders since it enables you to perform rapid, instantaneous adjustments on your favorite software without having to convert the footage!
For starters, JVC will be affordable for both beginner and semi-pro filmmakers. And sometimes all you need is some basic equipment to get started with professional video creation. But wait, JVC isn’t just any old video camera. It can capture high-resolution movies with a lot of detail. (Wait till we talk about the advanced codecs and bit rates!)
The 2.7-inch viewfinder aids composition and chromaticity adjustments. It may not have the same stunning wide-angle OLED as the Canon XA35. However, its true-to-life color reproduction is just as impressive.
Despite the fact that the JVC is an inexpensive prosumer, its specifications indicate otherwise. It’s not only compatible with the most up-to-date professional editing software, but it’s also capable of capturing 1080p video.
If you’re unfamiliar with camcorder bit rates, you’re in for a pleasant surprise with this low-cost JVC prosumer. It shoots HD films at a blistering 35Mbps, capturing more and more information in each frame for a really immersive viewing experience. Video quality is improved and distortion is reduced when bit rates are high.
It also captures movie sequences in AVI, a video format that outperforms MP4 in terms of audio quality. For capturing short hi-res movies, professional filmmakers nearly usually utilize AVI files.
Pros
- Shoots 1080p high-definition videos at a fantastic 35Mbps bit rate.
- On Premiere and Final Cut Pro, there is no need for transcoding or video file conversion.
- Professional editing software is very compatible.
- In the AVI format, you may record videos with high-fidelity audio.
Cons
- In severe low-light situations, the video may be blurry.
- There are no light accessories included.
5. Camcorder Sony HXR-NX100 Full HD NXCAM Sony HXR-NX100 Full HD NXCAM Sony HXR-NX100 Full HD N
It seems like a shame to talk about camcorders without mentioning Sony. The Sony NX100 prosumer, on the other hand, earns a position on our list in its own right! It’s one of the most unique handheld action cameras on the market, featuring three manual lens rings for specialized IRIS control, focus, and zoom!
To begin with, this HD prosumer has two media slots for simultaneous recording. This feature was initially introduced in Canon’s XA and XF camcorders. Sony, on the other hand, pushed it to the next level with their XAVC S recording codec and 59.94p video frame rates.
However, cinematographers consider this codec to be a consumer rather than a prosumer codec. However, novices choose this Sony camcorder for a variety of reasons. After all, it includes Sony’s famous 29mm wide-angle G Lens with a 12x optical zoom! With Sony’s Pixel Super Resolution technology, the NX100 can zoom in an additional 24 times without pixelating the images.
Yes, you can shoot scenes in 1920x1080p resolution while still taking use of the camera’s superior in-camera capabilities. The NX100 now delivers natural bokeh and narrow depths of focus for eye-catching effects, thanks to its cinema-ready Exmor R CMOS sensor. This top sensor is not just brighter, but it also has a greater resolution than a lot of the video production equipment we’ve seen. In general, it is one of the greatest professional video cameras available.
Pros
- Camera shaking may be corrected using Active Steady Shot.
- 3 lens rings for manual aperture, zoom, and focus control
- Zooming up to 24x without distortion is possible thanks to Pixel Super Resolution technology (highest 48x)
- Authentic color temperatures can be maintained using a white balance that can be adjusted.
- The 1-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor provides cinematic effects of exceptional quality.
Cons
- Average frame rates for high-definition filming
- Its focusing function may be hampered by excessive outside humidity.
What Are the Characteristics of a Good Prosumer Camcorder?
These cameras are much superior than DSLR cameras for filming HD films with a flare for your new filmmaking talents, as you can see from our prosumer video camera evaluations.
You can get the best prosumer camcorder without breaking the bank if you know what features to search for.
However, if you use an ordinary video camera, you will not be able to achieve the cinematic elegance you want. Continue reading to learn about the most important characteristics of video cameras and how to choose the finest prosumer camera.
Resolution: HD vs. 4K
Most consumer camcorders under $2500 provide a Full HD resolution of 1920x1080p at 35Mbps. In this price range, just a few trustworthy camcorders will go up to 4K UHD.
4K prosumers come with a 10x to 20x optical zoom lens and an 8+ Megapixel CMOS image sensor to generate distortion-free high-res films. HD prosumers, on the other hand, aren’t half awful.
Take, for example, the Canon XA35. Its HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor with 2.91 Megapixels and DIGIC DV 4 CPU work together to produce HD footage. With Dual DIGIC DV 6 Image Processors, the Canon XF400 raises the bar to 4K UHD. If you’re going to use this to photograph infants, make sure you pick the finest Canon lens for newborn photography.
Specifications of the Lens
The zoom lens of a prosumer camcorder is what makes it so adaptable. A prosumer camera may be used to shoot movies, capture wildlife footage, and record a documentary all at the same time, depending on its zoom range.
Choose a lens with an eight-blade circular aperture. Point lights or “starburst effects” may be challenging to handle with non-circular apertures. You’ll also require razor-sharp concentrating on a moving topic from time to time. To fit your filming style, make sure your camcorder has improved manual focus and zoom options.
Controls for Advanced Cinematography
We’ve all seen a slow-mo or fast-motion video that had us on the edge of our seats. We’re not implying that cinematography is just about achieving results with a professional camera that a basic DSLR can’t. However, the more cinematic possibilities your camcorder offers, the less time you’ll spend editing.
The Canon XA line’s Power Zoom and gain control capabilities were very appealing to us. The available codecs might affect picture reproduction, therefore pay attention to the recording format.
If you don’t mind your films using up all of your SD card capacity, save them in AVI format rather than MP4. On the huge screen, the video quality pays dividends!
Transfer through Wi-Fi and FTP
Don’t have access to your news vehicle or a relay station? FTP file transfers to Cloud servers are now supported by the newest prosumer camcorders. It’s critical to choose a camcorder that supports dual-band Wi-Fi and can connect to your phone and laptop. The Wi-Fi enables for pairing with a wide range of camera and broadcasting equipment.
Overall Audio & Recording Quality
Prosumer camcorders include a built-in stereo microphone that is ideal for filming footage inside. However, they aren’t ideal for filming in the outdoors, where there is a lot of background noise and movement.
Choose a prosumer camcorder with two XLR outputs with 48V phantom power. Even better if it records audio in 16bit PCM @ 48kHz!
Then there’s something called Wide DR Gamma, which makes a huge impact when recording in bright sunlight. It removes harsh tone gradations produced by excessive brightness.
Any camcorder with the Wide DR Gamma setting delivers more realistic colors than one without it by removing overexposure from the image.
Features that are easy to use
Whether you’re purchasing a Canon lens, a motorized camera slider, or a prosumer camcorder, you need something that’s easy to operate. The finest video camera for filmmaking should be easy to operate and have a comfortable design.
Recording to two SD cards at different bit rates at the same time has become more frequent than you may expect. Relay recording is the same way. This is one bandwagon you will not regret joining. On each, you may record up to twelve hours of HD video.
Infrared shooting settings, 5-axis picture stabilization, distortion corrections, and an OLED viewfinder are all features to look for. All of these aspects go towards making a superb prosumer camera!
Prosumer Video Camera Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a DSLR and a prosumer camera?
Ans: A prosumer camcorder’s lens cannot be changed. A DSLR lens, on the other hand, may be readily swapped for another. DSLRs also feature a bigger picture sensor, which enables them to photograph in very low light. Prosumers, on the other hand, are unrivaled when it comes to filming high-resolution motion films.
2. Can you make movies using a consumer camcorder?
Prosumer camcorders capture HD footage at high bit rates as compared to ordinary video cameras. Prosumers may be used for live broadcasting via Wi-Fi. They feature more manual in-camera adjustments and improved picture stability. As a result, these camcorders may be used to live stream soccer events.
3. What is a high-resolution consumer camcorder for YouTube videos?
Ans: The Canon XA35 is an HD prosumer camcorder that can be used to record Youtube videos and go live. You may use it to make trip vlogs since it prevents overexposure. Its dual microphone efficiently picks up your speech and consistently produces high-fidelity sound.
4. Is it necessary to purchase a Yongnuo flash for my Canon camcorder?
Ans: For your Canon camcorder or DSLR, a Yongnuo flash will be ideal. It’s simple to combine with various off-camera flashes. Furthermore, you may adjust the flash frequency, magnification, focal length, and triggering mode. It’s a low-cost camera that can be used for professional photography.
5. What is the best lens for a prosumer camcorder?
Ans: The Canon XF400 boasts a really awesome 10x zoom lens and a strong 8.29 Megapixel 4K UHD CMOS Image Sensor. The XF400 is used by semi-pro cinematographers because of its consistent performance. It captures an incredible degree of information in action scenarios by recording 4K films at 60p frame rates.
Conclusion
Are you prepared to follow in the footsteps of Robert Richardson? Any of the five prosumer camcorders we’ve listed today will put you one step ahead of the game when it comes to cinematography in the twenty-first century! We hope you’ve learnt all you need to know about the best prosumer video camera from this article!
Related
The “professional video camera 4k” is a type of camera that is used by professionals. They are different than the prosumer cameras because they have more features and can be used in professional settings. There are 5 best pro-sumer video camera reviews to help you decide which one is perfect for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand video camera is best?
A: Best video camera brand is a highly subjective question, as there are competing brands with varying features. Some people might say GoPro while others would go for Sony.
What is the best 4K camcorder to buy?
A: If youre looking for a camcorder that is going to be used in 4K or HDR, then the Sony FDR-AX53 would be your best choice. Although it doesnt have as much functionality as other models, its price point will fit into any budget.
Are camcorders still worth buying?
A: Yes, camcorders are still a wonderful tool to have in todays society. They can be used for recording memories going forward as well as sharing videos with friends and family members you may not see often. It is up to each individual user how they choose to use their camcorder.
Related Tags
- best professional video camera 2020
- best budget camcorder 2020
- best video cameras 2021
- best budget camcorder 2021
- best 4k camcorder
