DSLRs for Video Production: Top Choices for Filmmakers

By Tati Taylor 15 days ago, Cameras & Lenses

DSLRs for filmmaking to produce videos of all genres.

Using the best DSLR for video, you can adjust the camera settings manually to capture excellent video content.

Such models are compatible with a variety of lenses.

While they are hardly suitable for shooting long videos, you can use them to capture attention-grabbing footage for your vlogs and social media.

In addition, they are perfect for those who travel a lot or want to document happy moments spent with their families.

To write these in-depth reviews, I decided to compare 3 top models - the best one that I like the most, the most expensive one, and a camera for budget-conscious users.

Take a look at my test results to select the most suitable option for your budget and needs.

Top 9 DSLRs for Video Recording

IMAGE
NAME
FEATURES
canon rebel eos sl3 dslr for video
Canon Rebel EOS SL3
BEGINNER
  • APS-C
  • 4K UHD 2160p
  • 24.1MP

nikon d7500 dslr for video
Nikon D7500
TOUCHSCREEN
  • APS-C
  • 4K UHD
  • 20.9MP

canon eos rebel t7 dslr for video
Canon EOS Rebel T7
AFFORDABLE
  • APS-H
  • FHD 1080p
  • 24.1MP

nikon d3500 dslr for video
Nikon D3500
FOR TRAVEL
  • 1-inch
  • 1080p FHD
  • 24.2MP

canon eos 90d dslr for video
Canon EOS 90D
LIVE VIEW AF
  • APS-C
  • 4K/30p
  • 32.5MP

canon eos 6d mark ii dslr for video
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
TIME-LAPSE
  • Full-frame
  • FHD/60p
  • 26.2MP

nikon d780 dslr for video
Nikon D780
HYBRID
  • Full-frame
  • 4K UHD
  • 24.5MP

nikon d850 dslr for video
Nikon D850
PROFESSIONAL
  • Full-frame
  • 4K UHD
  • 45.7MP

canon eos rebel t8i dslr for video
Canon EOS Rebel T8i
FOR YOUTUBE
  • APS-C
  • 4K 2160p
  • 24MP

If you want to purchase a video camera that allows you to capture clear footage, be sure to take a closer look at the options that support a resolution of at least 1080p.

Cameras that support lower resolution capture blurry footage.

dslr camera with video how to choose

Sensor — 22.2 x 14.8 mm recommended. In case you want to find a budget option for novice users, buy a camera with an APS-C sensor. High-end cameras for professional use typically have a large sensor (36 x 24 mm) equal to the frame size of a 35 mm film.

Frame rates for video — 24fps. It allows you to see how many frames per second a camera can capture.

While some videographers work with 24 fps when shooting films, you may need to use a higher rate for some of your projects.

For instance, a rate higher than 120 fps allows you to record slow-motion videos.

LCD screen. It makes it easier for you to create a well-balanced composition using different heights and angles. If you are into vlogging, you will need to flip the display to film yourself.

Autofocus. A stable AF system makes it easier for you to capture clear footage.

Keep in mind that you can use LCD to leverage Live View AF. This feature is especially useful for those who need to capture videos, so be sure to check whether a DSLR has it.

Moreover, effective image stabilization will help you capture clear footage that will appeal to your audience.

When looking for a DSLR, opt for a model with in-built stabilization or buy a lens that supports it.

Check whether a camera comes with an external microphone port. Some models are fitted with an in-built mic, however, if you want to record pro-grade sound, make sure to select a camera compatible with an external mic.

1. Canon Rebel EOS SL3 — For Learners

canon rebel eos sl3 dslr camera with video

Sensor: APS-C | Video Quality: 4K UHD 2160p | Resolution: 24.1MP

  • ✚ Supports 4K video recording
  • ✚ Fully articulating touchscreen
  • ✚ Supports shooting time-lapse videos
  • ✚ Digital image stabilization
  • Limited fps at 4K
Rating

Canon Rebel EOS SL3 was created for those who want to purchase their first DSLR camera.

It has a useful Guided Auto mode for beginners.

Using it, you can discover how to adjust the settings to achieve the result you need.

One of the key selling points of the SL3 is that it enables you to capture 4K videos.

You may also shoot Full HD content or record videos that have a standard resolution.

The only disadvantage is that you can shoot 4K videos at 24 fps, which renders this model useless for professionals who shoot at high frame rates.

dslr camera with video canon rebel eos sl3

Unlike some other top DSLRs for video, this camera comes with a 3-inch fully articulating touchscreen, which makes it easier for you to capture any subject.

I was extremely pleased with a variety of modes supported by this vlogging camera.

You can switch between different scene modes to capture beautiful views using automatic settings, including the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO.

Due to this, you can use this camera to shoot professional content with little to no experience.

2. Nikon D7500 — Convenient Touchscreen

nikon d7500 dslr camera with video

Sensor: APS-C | Video Quality: 4K UHD | Resolution: 20.9MP

  • ✚ Speedy AF of high accuracy
  • ✚ Fully weather-sealed
  • ✚ Suitable for creating stop-motion animations
  • ✚ Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • Small sensor
  • Unimpressive battery life
Rating

Nikon D7500 is a great option to consider if you are looking for superb image quality and impressive speed.

This camera is suitable for videographers with different levels of experience.

You can use it to capture 4K UHD video content.

Keep in mind that when you shoot footage in 4K, you will have to deal with a 1.5x crop, which makes it challenging to capture wide-angle shots.

Despite some minor shortcomings, the D7500 is an excellent choice for those who want to shoot Full HD videos at 60p. It also supports slow-motion clips.

dslr camera with video nikon d7500

Another thing that is worth mentioning about this Nikon video camera is that it has a fully weather-sealed body, which allows videographers to use it in severe shooting conditions.

It comes with an integrated flash.

You can capture shots using a remote control or use an external mic for better sound quality.

3. Canon EOS Rebel T7 — Affordable Model

canon eos rebel t7 dslr camera with video

Sensor: APS-H | Video Quality: FHD 1080p | Resolution: 24.1MP

  • ✚ Suitable for low light conditions
  • ✚ Auto mode for newbies
  • ✚ Lightweight and compact
  • ✚ Wi-Fi and NFC support
  • Limited tiltability of the LCD
  • Hardly suitable for professional use
Rating

I must admit that the Canon EOS Rebel T7 has a quite impressive performance for a camera in this price range.

This Canon camera for video supports Full HD video recording at 30 fps.

If you are a beginner, you may use its auto mode. Advanced users can manually change the aperture and shutter speed.

dslr camera with video canon eos rebel t7

The sensor allows this camera to capture clear footage with vibrant colors.

Another advantage of the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is that it doesn’t weigh much.

I enjoyed taking it with me on my trips as it is quite lightweight.

The only disadvantage is that it doesn’t support 4K video recording, which makes it hardly suitable for professional videographers.

4. Nikon D3500 — For Travel Videos

nikon d3500 dslr camera with video

Sensor: 1-inch | Video Quality: FHD 1080p | Resolution: 24.2MP

  • ✚ Speedy AF performance
  • ✚ A variety of shooting modes
  • ✚ Guided Mode and Special Effects
  • ✚ Integrates with smart devices
  • Small sensor
  • No 4K support
Rating

If you want to find a model that supports 4K video recording, the D3500 might be not the best choice.

However, this camera is perfect for those who want to find a model with streamlined functionality.

It allows you to capture Full HD videos (1920 x 1080 pixels) at 60 fps, which makes this camera better than other similar options.

Using it, you can shoot a video that lasts 29 minutes and 59 seconds at regular settings.

dslr camera with video nikon d3500

You can adjust the settings of the in-built mic manually or use the auto mode, which enables you to select any audio quality you need.

What I like about this DSLR camera for video is that it has the “i” button that allows you to quickly switch between audio and video settings.

This option will be the most suitable for those who want to find a compact camera for their trips.

5. Canon EOS 90D — Live View Autofocus

canon eos 90d dslr camera with video

Sensor: APS-C | Video Quality: 4K/30p | Resolution: 32.5MP

  • ✚ Excellent battery life
  • ✚ Filters for both stills and videos
  • ✚ Rotating touchscreen
  • ✚ Allows shooting time-lapse videos
  • Takes up a lot of space
  • Canon software requires an update
Rating

I decided to give this 4K video camera a try because of its impressive battery capacity.

What makes it different from some newly-released mirrorless models is that it enables you to take photos the whole day without recharging the batteries.

If you still need to take more photos or capture more video footage, you may use the 90D with the BG-E14 battery grip to double the shooting time.

dslr camera with video canon eos 90d

People who enjoy shooting videos will also like the fact that this DSLR for filmmaking allows them to shoot time-lapse content and capture motion in the most mesmerizing way possible.

You can select between three presets and turn on the pro-level digital stabilization mode.

The camera doesn’t support optical stabilization, however, most users will be still satisfied with the quality it supports.

6. Canon EOS 6D Mark II — For Time-Lapse Videos

canon eos 6d mark ii dslr camera with video

Sensor: Full-frame | Video Quality: FHD/60p | Resolution: 26.2MP

  • ✚ 5-axis digital image stabilization
  • ✚ Dual Pixel autofocus
  • ✚ Swivel display
  • ✚ Auto setting adjustment
  • No 4K support
  • Subpar quality when shooting in low-light conditions
Rating

The key selling point of the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is that this model supports 5-axis digital image stabilization. This feature is useful for those who want to shoot clean and clear content.

What makes this model better than the previous version is that it has more impressive AF and burst speed, which enables videographers to utilize it for shooting action videos and capturing moving objects.

dslr camera with video canon eos 6d mark ii

This Canon camera has some features that are typically available in full-frame cameras.

For instance, you can benefit from its integrated intervalometer when shooting time-lapse photos and videos.

It enables you to shoot slow-motion videos with high resolution.

7. Nikon D780 — For Stills and Video

bomaker hd projectors under 100

Sensor: Full-frame | Video Quality: 4K UHD | Resolution: 24.5MP

  • ✚ Supports video recording at different frame rates
  • ✚ HDR content
  • ✚ Electronic stabilization
  • ✚ 3.2-inch tilting LCD touchscreen
  • No subject tracking modes
  • Costs too much
Rating

Nikon D780 is the best DSLR for video in its niche as it has a 24.5MP backside-illuminated CMOS sensor.

It allows professionals to capture high-resolution stills and 4K UHD footage. This camera for photography allows you to capture uncropped 4K UHD content using various frame rates, such as 30/25/24fps.

You may also shoot slow-motion videos at 120fps. It will enable you to experiment with different options and shoot more creative clips.

dslr camera with video nikon d780

If you need to shoot videos, you will appreciate the fact that the D780 has a 12-slot video menu.

You can change it the way you see fit to always have the features you need at hand. In addition, the camera automatically focuses when you capture content using an interval timer or a time-lapse mode.

8. Nikon D850 — For Professionals

nikon d850 dslr camera with video

Sensor: Full-frame | Video Quality: 4K UHD | Resolution: 45.7MP

  • ✚ Wide dynamic range
  • ✚ Allows shooting slow-motion content
  • ✚ Compatible with many lenses
  • ✚ Flip-out touchscreen
  • Expensive
  • Noisy AF
Rating

Nikon D850 supports HD, Full HD, and 4K quality.

You can experiment with different frame rates and shoot slow-motion content.

It allows you to capture 8K time-lapse videos. However, you need to have some video editing skills to combine the sequences.

Moreover, this full-frame camera supports focus peaking and allows you to avoid exposure issues thanks to zebra patterns.

It comes with an integrated microphone and headphone ports, which makes it the perfect choice for videographers.

dslr camera with video nikon d850

In addition, you may use this model as a camera for night photography.

It’s compatible with an extensive choice of lenses from Nikon and other popular manufacturers.

You can connect it to an external video monitor and enjoy clear HDMI output. However, it costs quite a lot.

9. Canon EOS Rebel T8i — For YouTube

canon eos rebel t8i dslr camera with video

Sensor: Full-frame | Video Quality: 4K UHD | Resolution: 45.7MP

  • ✚ Remote control
  • ✚ Ability to record vertical videos
  • ✚ Fully articulated LCD screen
  • ✚ Attractive colors
  • Lack of case-specific AF adjustments
  • Shutter lag spec could be improved
Rating

One major plus point of the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D is its attractive and robust design, giving it a professional look.

This video camera for YouTube also produces beautiful and vibrant colors, which is always a good thing for video creators.

It's great for beginners and enthusiasts alike and is an affordable option for those just starting out.

dslr camera with video canon eos rebel t8i

This cheapest 4K camera has impressive smartphone connectivity, allowing you to control the shutter release remotely via Wi-Fi and even geo-tag your images using your phone's GPS.

This camera also handles ISO settings very well, maintaining image quality even at high ISOs.

Final Thoughts: My Test with Results

Canon Rebel EOS SL3 Canon EOS Rebel T7 Nikon D850

My Choice

Cheap

Professional

Video Resolution

4K/24p

FHD/30p

4K/30p

Image Stabilization

✔️

ISO

100-25,600

100-6,400

32-102,400

For Vlogging

✔️

✔️

For Travel

✔️

✔️

✔️

For Beginners

✔️

✔️

Budget-Friendly

✔️

✔️

Each model was designed for a specific purpose, which makes them suitable for people with different backgrounds and needs. To select the best one, think about your budget, skillset, and projects you typically work on.

Thanks to the excellent video recording capabilities of Canon Rebel EOS SL3, including 4K at 24fps and 1080p at 60fps support, the clip that I recorded using this camera is of superb quality.

The colors looked natural even though the lighting during the shooting wasn’t perfect. I can see all the details clearly.

dslr camera with video test

The Rebel T7 is a camera for amateur photographer and those who are interested in capturing video footage 1080p at 30fps when using a limited ISO range.

While its functionality is quite simple, it will suffice for shooting casual videos. It doesn’t support 4K quality, but this camera is suitable for capturing travel videos or school events.

The D850 stands out for its support of 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 120fps. When it comes to quality, this video DSLR is comparable with Canon Rebel EOS SL3. However, considering the high price, this camera is hardly suitable for beginner videographers who have a limited budget.

Conclusion: The Canon Rebel EOS SL3 and Nikon D850 stand out among the rest for their impressive functionality, which makes them the perfect choice for shooting vlogs and pro-level footage. While the Canon EOS Rebel T7 has a more limited set of tools, it is suitable for beginners and those who want to shoot casual content.

FAQ

  • • What things should I take into account when selecting a DSLR for video?

When selecting a DSLR for shooting a video, pay attention to the resolution it supports, the AF system, 4K support, frame rates when capturing videos in Full HD, and support of external mics for high sound quality.

  • • Are DSLRs suitable for shooting videos?

Yes, videographers utilize this type of cameras for shooting videos in poor-light situations. they experiment with different lenses and accessories to achieve the most striking effect. Such cameras are more suitable for budget-conscious people, as they cost less than professional equipment.

  • • Do DSLR video cameras support the high quality of recorded sound?

Most DSLRs support subpar audio quality because of high compression. Due to the sound quality may suffer. To avoid such issues, make sure to use an external microphone and a dual-system audio device. It will enable you to capture clear sound.

  • • Are DSLR video cameras prone to overheating when used for a long time?

Yes, during extended recording sessions, a sensor in DSLRs might overheat, which may result in damage. However, most modern cameras of this type are fitted with special sensors. They switch off to ensure the protection of the sensor when the temperature becomes too high.

  • • What extra gear should I buy to capture pro-level video footage with a DSLR?

If you want to improve the quality of your videos, you may need to purchase professional lenses, filters, tripod, and lighting gear. It will enable you to stabilize your camera, avoid issues with highlights and shadows, and capture excellent videos. However, professional gear might be too expensive for beginners.

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