DSLRs for Video Production: Top Choices for Filmmakers

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.