Vlogging equipment comes in many different shapes and sizes. In order to create top quality vlogs that viewers become enthralled by, it’s important to make sure enhanced quality is sustained through every aspect. Audio, video and the final cut require quality cameras, top of the range microphones, adaptable lighting and state of the art software. You can technically start a vlog with merely your smart device if you wanted to, and although we recommend beginners start small, also advise those who want to take this at least significantly seriously to start collecting some top-notch gear as they get better at their craft.
The Types of Vlogging Equipment
Here’s a short little list to keep in mind of what the popular types of gear for vlogging may include. Also, make sure you look out for “kits” and “packages” in the world of online shopping, as many of these websites (and we’ll try to link you to packages we like) include a lot of this gear all in one buy for a discount.
- Vlogging cameras: Of course, a “video” blog wouldn’t be a vlog without a camera, so we’ll list this first. What are you currently using right now? Your phone? An older camera? Perhaps wanting to upgrade now? We highly recommend DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras as they are the standard for most recording in this day and age. The only drawback is that you can only record up to 30 minutes at a time — otherwise, look into professional cameras or even camcorders.
- Lighting kits: If you’re outside, this will probably be a no go. But for a lot of vloggers, they like to sit inside in a nice, set-like environment to talk to their viewers. This is where lighting kits come in, and the entire world of lighting is huge, so it’s hard for us to recommend just one kit since there are many factors that go into this. We recommend looking around Amazon or eBay for a cheaper kit (we found a decent one to recommend), or go big by grabbing a more permanent green-screen or lighting set. It really depends on your budget and needs.
- External microphones: The audio in smart devices (especially), but even professional cameras just aren’t “good”. This is why we highly recommend attaching some type of external microphone in order to improve your audio quality, since it’s the second most important part of a vlog. There’s also the method in which you record audio — are you interviewing, speaking in front of the cameras yourself, or perhaps moving around frequently? A lavalier microphone (which clips on to your clothing) may be an option. Or perhaps a handheld microphone to hold? Otherwise, stick to an external mounted mic if you’re getting a DSLR or mirrorless camera.
- Portable recorders: Some vloggers use a portable handheld recorder to jot ideas, plan for the future, or even record their vlogs altogether. You can sync the audio and video later down the road.
- Vlogging software: You need to edit your clips and audio into something free video software, right? If you don’t want to spend money, look into . Otherwise, we have a few great picks below.
The Best Vlogging Gear
Camera: EOS Rebel T6
Whilst seeking the best vlogging gear, many might point you in the direction of this sleek DSLR designed by Canon. It’s often referred to as a smart phone step up for those hoping to take their vlogs to the next level. This camera aims to focus on this market and provide quality equipment for vloggers hoping to improve the graphic quality and tonal depth of their images and videos. With built-in WiFi and NFC connectivity, uploading content to social media is efficient.
The 18 Megapixel CMOS image sensor and the DIGIC 4+ processor will allow vloggers to capture detailed, high-resolution photos and videos even when there is a lack of light. It’s typically labeled as the best beginner DSLR. Many say that the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is great value for money and definitely on our list of the best vlogging equipment for those looking to improve the quality of their content and hoping to attract a wider fan base.
Camera: Sony Alpha a6000
This compact camera boasts both versatility and high-performance processing. We’re looking at ours right now on our desk. Mirrorless cameras are often preferred over DSLR due to their exceptional autofocus, albeit they are typically a bit more expensive. The 24.3 MP mirrorless design has an APS HD CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor. As a result, it is able to produce top quality, high-res pictures. The quality is in no way compromised for videos either with full HD capability even when the light is fading: some of the best gear available for vloggers who are hoping to capture a wide range of varying moments at the click of a button (keep in mind these as well can only record 30 minutes at a time until you have to press that button again, so stay near the camera).
The Fast Hybrid AF processor is intelligent and detects both phase and contrast in order to focus immediately and reduce the chance of blur substantially. With a large screen on the rear and easy to use controls, live viewing and instant image playback is practical and efficient. Whilst most user reviews seem to praise the Sony Alpha a6000 as another one of the best vlogging equipment on the market, others have complained about how storage of images on memory cards can become quite expensive, especially it you are on a long trip and unable to transfer the images and videos onto other devices. This is because the camera is only compatible with SDXC memory cards that are Class 10 or faster with a minimum capacity of 64 GB.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
When discussing the best vlogging equipment on the market it’s hard to ignore this device — if your budget is huge, that is. We stuck this third camera in here for those looking to hit the professional realm of vlogging. Simply having the legacy of the 5D series to emanate from gives this device instant integrity and international repute. Some of the very best designers and engineers were employed by Canon to create the EOS 5D Mark IV and it really shows in terms of performance, processing and versatility.
The image quality is almost unparalleled and achieved with a full frame 30.4-megapixel sensor. For videographers, the 4K technology in the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV makes capturing detailed sequences simple and powerful. It can also capture motion with precision thanks to a 61 point AF system. The DIGIC 6+ processor also means that images can be snapped at up to seven frames per second without any lag and smooth transitions. Furthermore, the built-in WiFi and GPS navigation means that the power of this device goes beyond the capturing of highly refined images and videos.
Lighting: LimoStudio LMS103
For those whose vlogs require expert lighting for staged photography whilst also remaining relatively mobile and versatile, this is a decent and highly affordable piece of kit. As far as the best gear for vlogs goes it’s really important to consider the nature of your work before purchasing lighting equipment. The LimoStudio LMS103 offers two 33-inch translucent, white video umbrellas for shoot through capabilities, 3 single head fluorescent light holders for photo lighting, two 86-inch-tall studio flash strobe light stands for tall studio high output and quality photography, 3 full spectrum 45 Watt digital light bulbs that have been designed to balance daylight, one 28 inch high output table top light stand and 2 practical carry cases (one for the umbrella and one for the light bulbs.
One minor setback to this affordable piece of kit is that the light bulbs are 45 Watt Maximum so replacing them may be difficult depending on where one is in the world. Nonetheless, for those whose vlogs require quality yet versatile and affordable lighting equipment, the LimaStudio LMS103 is a good piece of gear to consider.
Microphone: Rode VideoMic Pro
Let’s talk vlogging audio. Sound quality is often one of the last things that vloggers consider but it’s actually extremely important in order to satisfy viewers and create a wholly enjoyable viewing experience. The Rode VideoMic Pro is versatile and has been designed so that it can be used with camcorders, portable audio recorders and DSLR cameras in order to provide either reference or live audio. It contains a half inch condenser capsule which creates sound quality that rivals live news broadcasts through a 3.5mm mini jack connector. This outputs the mono to left and right channels simultaneously without ever creating a self-noise of more than 14db. The super cardioid polar pattern also means that audio is focused, and background noise is hugely reduced.
The shock absorber on the mount means that sounds from motion are hugely reduced so that vloggers can record their pieces on the move without compromising sound quality. For all these reasons it’s certainly a good piece of your vlogger kit to consider. Many user reviews suggest that, in terms of portable microphones, the Rode VideoMic Pro is by far one of the best external mics out there. It also comes with a 10-year warranty.
Microphone: Movo WMIC10
This versatile, lightweight microphone can be used with almost any device due to its wireless capabilities. The sound is broadcast wirelessly on VHF and UHF frequency spectrum meaning there will be no interference or issues with regulations. The lavalier microphone can be moved around in any direction so that it can record sounds from various sources quickly and easily whilst also limiting background noise. With a range of around 15 meters, adjustable volume reception and the ability to monitor live sound quality with headphones this microphone is a good and affordable option for vloggers looking for the best equipment.
It operates with two AA batteries, includes a belt clip for the body pack transmitter, a lapel clip and pop filter for the microphone and 3.5mm TRS output cables for cameras, smartphones, computers and tablets. Weighing less than 5 ounces and having a battery life of 3 hours, the Movo WMIC10 is certainly one for vloggers to consider when searching for the best gear for their repertoire.
Recorder: TASCAM DR-40
This nifty device is able to record four tracks from condenser microphones, XLR mics in general or line inputs. The option of toggling between XY to AB microphones with the internal mics makes it possible to curate recordings in order to get the best quality sound regardless of the environment. The TASCAM microphone preamps also allow condenser microphones with phantom power to record at up to 96 kHZ and 24 bit resolution and the extended battery life of the DR-40 means that there is no fear of not capturing all the sound even on long recordings.
This makes it extremely useful for vloggers that need high quality sound recording in all kinds of wacky environments. As a result, the TASCAM DR-40 has been considered by many who want to the best equipment for vlogs so you can record on-the-go. The recorder takes SD and SDHC cards with storage capacities of up to 32 GB. Tinkering with the quality post recording has also been made easy with EQ and Level Align features in order to prevent volume jumps.
Software: Final Cut Pro X
As with most Apple products, Final Cut Pro X hopes to win over mass support by offering a sleek and practical solution to digital editing. This software is certainly popular among editors and is considered by most vloggers as the best and most essential equipment when it comes to making sure videos are polished to perfection before release. The Magnetic Timeline means that it’s easy to try many different possibilities in the editing suite without wasting time. Different types of content are color coded on the timeline making it easy to move between them and fit them together seamlessly.
Built on a 64-bit architecture, this is some powerful software allowing vloggers to work on complex and large projects with high frame rates and a concentration of special effects. Of course, you’ll need the latest iMac to make the most of such performance, however. So, if you’re looking for the best equipment for vlogs but are not a fan of Macs then you’ll have to let this software pass you by. Final Cut Pro X is just simply one of the industries standard, otherwise.
Software: Adobe Premier Pro CC
Perhaps the biggest rival to Apple’s video editing software is the beloved Adobe Premier Pro CC. With full integration and capabilities for both PC and Mac, it’s certainly a good universal option for those looking for the best software to edit their vlogs with. The reason it is trusted with high quality, fast turnover content is because the Adobe Sensei’s automated tools are able to substantially cut the amount of time spent on task allowing users to prioritize the quality of their content. The software can be used with any camera type and can produce video in any format for any platform.
Whether your vlog is shot by a smartphone or in 8K, this piece of software will handle the editing appropriately. As a result, it is the leading software for film, TV and web content. So, if you’re planning to create sleek videos for your vlog then this gear is certainly worth looking at. The best vlogs require the best equipment after all!
