Buy Guides 2022: The Best Canon Video Cameras (2023)

From the legacy days of the DSLR to the brand's newest forays into mirrorless and cinema camera technology, let’s explore some of Canon’s best digital video cameras currently on the market.

While it’s not going to be included as a selection as it's currently out-of-production, we do have to preface our list by shouting out the Canon 5D, perhaps the most important digital video camera of all time. From its groundbreaking sensor, to its signature Canon color science, the Canon 5D (in particular the mark iii) was a huge camera for all types of filmmakers, photographers, wedding videographers, and content creators of all types.

That being said, we now live in a new age of mirrorless camera technology. And despite a few rough first steps on the behalf of this legacy camera brand, Canon has developed some surprisingly powerful and useful mirrorless video cameras over the past couple of years.

Combined with their high-end cinema camera options which have been used on major blockbusters and by run-and-gun documentarians across the world, there are plenty of options to choose from for any creators looking to invest in a Canon camera.

What makes a great Canon camera?

While the quick answer might simply be: “the color science.” We’re going to need to go a bit more in-depth into what makes these different Canon cameras great — and how they stand apart from each other.

To help us in our test, we’ve actually done a Canon camera comparison showdown of all of our top picks which you can check out below.

(Video) Canon Camera Buyers Guide 2022 $500-5000 | THE BEST & Worst Canon Cameras for Every Budget

As you can see, this camera comparison was meant to really push each of these cameras to the max of their abilities and to test how distinguishable they are to each other. While we’ll go into each option more below, here’s a quick list of the best Canon video cameras which we’ve chosen to feature:

  1. Canon EOS R
  2. Canon EOS R7
  3. Canon EOS R5
  4. Canon C300
  5. Canon C500 mark ii
  6. Canon C70

As part of our comparison test, we chose to highlight several elements of each camera to see if our DP could notice any differences. These features included:

  • Dynamic range
  • ISO
  • Skin tone
  • Low light capabilities
  • Color science
  • Sharpness

We also of course kept our list within reason, only highlighting options which currently retail between $1,000 and $16,000 and reflect the best and most current crop of Canon camera options. Let’s explore each option a bit more in-depth below.

Canon EOS R

Buy Guides 2022: The Best Canon Video Cameras (1)

One of our first picks for one of the best Canon cameras for video has to be the EOS R. Representing Canon’s first step into mirrorless, the EOS R caused quite a stir when it was first introduced — albeit not always for the best reasons.

However, despite some issues with overheating (which were fixed with some firmware dates for the most part), the EOS R truly represented the dawning of a new age for the traditional DSLR giant. Unlike the 5D which worked best in Full HD, the EOS R also made a focused push for high quality 4K recording with its 30.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor.

That being said, while an important camera (and a great camera for the right hybrid video and photo creatives), it has several other (if not better) options currently at around the same price point.

(Video) TOP 5 Best 4K Camcorder [ 2022 Budget Buyer's Guide ]

  • 30.3MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
  • DIGIC 8 Image Processor
  • UHD 4K30 Video; C-Log & 10-Bit HDMI Out
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF, 5655 AF Points
  • 3.69m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
  • 3.15" 2.1m-Dot Swivel Touchscreen LCD
  • Expanded ISO 50-102400, 8 fps Shooting
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, SD UHS-II Card Slot
  • Multi-Function Bar, Dual Pixel RAW

Price: $1,799.00

Canon EOS R7

Buy Guides 2022: The Best Canon Video Cameras (2)

Moving on from the EOS R, Canon released the lightweight RP then eventually the R7 and R5 (more on the R5 below). The R7 in particular is noteworthy for its reduced price from the EOS R, but also with its improved performance — most notably in the realm of video with several items and things which made it a select offering for digital content creators.

If there were a Canon video camera that I were to recommend for someone just getting started in film and video, it would probably have to be this R7 as it has all the best Canon bells-and-whistles like a 32.5MP CMOS image sensor, 4K 10-bit high definition video at up to 60fps, C-Log 3 recording and quite capable screens, slots and functionality.

  • 32.5MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
  • 4K60 10-Bit Video, HDR-PQ & C-Log 3
  • 30 fps E. Shutter, 15 fps Mech. Shutter
  • 2.36m-Dot OLED EVF
  • 1.6m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD
  • Sensor-Shift 5-Axis Image Stabilization
  • Dual UHS-II Memory Card Slots
  • Multi-Function Shoe, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Price: $1,499.00

Also, read more about this may be the perfect new B-cam for your video production in this full review of the Canon EOS R7.

Canon EOS R5

Buy Guides 2022: The Best Canon Video Cameras (3)

Perhaps now the true flagship of the Canon mirrorless camera line, the EOS R5 is one of the most popular — if not at least most polarizing — camera’s currently on the market. When it was first introduced the R5 turned plenty of heads in the film and video world with early leaks of its 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor and its 8K raw video recording capabilities.

Now that the R5 is out in the wild, it’s truly just as much of a behemoth as promised. Not many cameras (certainly of this size and price point) can pack so much punch. Still, while the 8K raw video is awesome, the R5 is also just as capable recording 4K 10-bit internal video at up to 120fps as well. Making it a strong option for just about any type of video project.

(Video) Best Hybrid Photo / Video Cameras for Every Budget $500 - $5000

Yet, as we can see in some of the comparisons, all that raw video data can be deceiving great, but it doesn’t quite truly stack up to some of its raw cinematic footage counterparts.

  • 45MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
  • DIGIC X Image Processor
  • 8K30 Raw and 4K120 10-Bit Internal Video
  • Sensor-Shift 5-Axis Image Stabilization
  • 12 fps Mech. Shutter, 20 fps E. Shutter
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with 1053 Points
  • 0.5" 5.76m-Dot OLED EVF
  • 3.2" Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD
  • Subject Tracking with Deep Learning
  • CFexpress & SD UHS-II Memory Card Slots

Price: $3,899.00

Canon C300

Buy Guides 2022: The Best Canon Video Cameras (4)

Moving on to some of our top picks for the best Canon cinema cameras we have to of course start with the Canon EOS C300. Originally designed as a way to take Canon’s legendary DSLR model to that next cinematic level, the Canon C300 has gone one to become one of the best, and most durable, cinema cameras on the market.

With a Super 35mm CMOS sensor, this original C300 (which later gave way to the mk ii and mk iii versions) was really designed for capturing the highest quality images in motion tailored to stand up for the rigorous of high-end post-production.

While the C300 has several updates, plus other even higher-end options like the C500 (more on this one below) and the C700, this original C300 is a great option if you can find it used and a perfect fit for a documentary-style videographer looking for that quality Canon cinema quality.

  • Super 35mm-Size CMOS Sensor
  • EF Lens Mount for Broad Compatibility
  • Canon XF Codec - 4:2:2 50 Mb/s MPEG-2
  • 1920 x 1080i60 & True 24p Recording
  • Rotating 4", 1.23 Mp LCD Monitor
  • HD-SDI Output, XLR Inputs
  • Dual CF Card Slots
  • Timecode I/O, Genlock In & Sync Out
  • Canon Log Gamma
  • Modular Design: Removable Grip & Monitor

Price: $2,794.50 (used)

Canon C500 mark ii

Buy Guides 2022: The Best Canon Video Cameras (5)

One of our most favorite cameras at Soundstripe, the Canon EOS C500 mark ii is a 5.9K full-frame powerhouse that is about as versatile as they come. You can shoot YouTube videos with the C500 (as we do) or you can shoot indie features or full–blown blockbusters with the camera — it’s really up to you.

(Video) BEST VIDEO CAMERA for Every Budget in 2022

With a 18.29MP full-frame CMOS sensor you get 5.9K output in full frame and can crop the sensor for Super 35 and Super 16 frame size modes while still maintaining a high resolution. The mark ii can also be equipped with different mounts outside of its Canon EF mount and boasts 15 stops of dynamic range with Dual Pixel autofocus support.

While we’re pushing the limits of our $1,000 to $16,000 price range, the C500 mk ii deserves to be included on our list even with its price as it still compares quite favorably to the true $50,000+ Sony and Alexa options you might find on the biggest productions.

  • Full-Frame CMOS Sensor, DIG!C DV 7 Chip
  • Full-Frame, Super 35, and Super 16 Modes
  • DCI 4K/2K, UHD 4K, and HD Modes
  • User-Changeable Lens Mounts
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF
  • Internal Canon RAW Light Recording
  • Internal XF-AVC Recording
  • 2 x CFexpress Card Slots, SD Card Slot
  • Canon Log 2 and Log 3 Gamma
  • 4-Channel Audio Recording

Price: $15,999.00

Canon C70

Buy Guides 2022: The Best Canon Video Cameras (6)

Finally, to round out our list we’re actually taking a step backwards and looking at a camera that attempts (quite well in fact) to combine the best of the mirrorless and cinema camera worlds. The Canon EOS C70 Cinema Camera might be the true current champ for the best Canon video camera due to its high performance, durability and flexibility, and unmatched quality for its price point.

With a Super35 DGO (Dual Grain Output) sensor which can capture 16+ stops of dynamic range and record up to DCI 4K at 60p (plus Hi-Speed UHD 4K at 120p), the C70 gives true cinema quality video at a fraction of the cost of your higher end options.

If you’ve ever shot with a Canon camera before (like the aforementioned Canon 5D or 7D for example) and want to feel safe with a new, higher-quality Canon that still has that great durability and color science, the C70 with its Canon Log 2, 3, and HDR recording will truly be your best bet.

  • Super35 Dual Gain Output (DGO) Sensor
  • DCI 4K 60p, Hi-Speed UHD 4K 120p/2K 180p
  • Canon Log 2, 3, PQ & HLG HDR Recording
  • RF Lens Mount / EF Mount with Adapter
  • DIG!C DV7 Image Processor
  • 16+ Stops of Total Dynamic Range
  • Built-In ND Filters / Auto ISO & Gain
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF & EOS iTR AF X
  • 1 BNC Timecode / 2 Mini-XLR Audio Inputs
  • Dual SD Card Slots, LUT/Long GOP Support

Price: $5,499.00

Further reading

These are just some of our current favorite Canon cameras which we chose to highlight for any documentarians, filmmakers, or miscellaneous videographers. But the true test might come down to other factors.

(Video) TOP 5: Best Canon Camera 2022

After all, there are many basic camcorder options with crazy optical zoom and great low light capability, however the true test of an image sensor is how a camera can deliver that high definition image to your computer.

And just how much you can search to change that image in your edit in a way which can truly make a difference between some regular store-bought CMOS image sensor camera a quality high-definition camera with great image stabilization and low light capability.

Be sure to check out our best libraries of royalty-free music, as well as plenty of other buying guides and camera breakdowns with these additional articles from the Soundstripe blog:

  • Choosing the Best Camera for YouTube in 2022
  • The 7 Best Cinema Cameras for Video Professionals
  • Breaking Down the Cameras from SXSW Film 2022
  • The Top 10 Cameras for New Video Production Companies
  • The 7 Best Cameras for Music Videos in 2022(Plus Helpful Shooting Tips)

FAQs

Which camera is best for high quality video? ›

Best cameras for photos and videos in 2022
  • Sony A7R IV. The best all-rounder, in a class of its own. ...
  • Nikon Z9. Best for professionals — Nikon's flagship mirrorless camera body is backed with enviable functionality. ...
  • Sony Alpha A7 III. ...
  • Nikon Z6. ...
  • Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. ...
  • Nikon D850. ...
  • Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D. ...
  • Fujifilm X-T4.
4 days ago

Which model of Canon is best? ›

The best Canon camera in 2022
  1. Canon EOS 90D. Brilliant for enthusiasts, the EOS 90D is both powerful and versatile. ...
  2. Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D. ...
  3. Canon EOS 6D Mark II. ...
  4. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. ...
  5. Canon EOS-1D X Mark III. ...
  6. Canon EOS R7. ...
  7. Canon EOS M50 Mark II. ...
  8. Canon EOS RP.
11 Nov 2022

Is Canon releasing a new camera in 2022? ›

MELVILLE, NY, November 2, 2022 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the launch of the new EOS R6 Mark II camera body, Canon's new hybrid full-frame camera, and the first EOS R series full-frame mirrorless to take the step into the second generation.

What camera do most videographers use? ›

Panasonic Lumix GH6

Buy Now! The Panasonic Lumix GH6 takes the top spot as the best camera for videography. That is because of its amazing video resolution and many features. One of the top features is its 7.5-stop dual image stabilization.

Is a canon better than a gopro? ›

GoPros were initially designed for taking video. Though they can also take still photos, their quality isn't comparable to the photos you can take with a DSLR. They're closer in quality to shots you could take with a top-end phone camera.

Which Canon camera do professionals use? ›

Canon EOS R5

As a stills camera, the Canon EOS R5 is simply Canon's finest product ever. It's the perfect amalgamation of the EOS R's form, the EOS 5D's function, and the professional-grade autofocus of the EOS-1D X.

Which Canon lens is best for film? ›

Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens

The best Canon lens for video should be a zoom lens. The RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM is fast, quiet, and versatile. Zoom range allows you to take environmental shots and close-ups, and the large maximum aperture allows you to continue filming even in low lighting conditions.

Is Nikon or Canon better quality? ›

Though both offer superb image quality, the Canon has more megapixels but the Nikon shoots more frames per second. The Z6 has better dynamic range, but the EOS R's autofocus is far superior.

Which is the latest Canon? ›

Canon EOS R10

This is Canon's (current) newest camera, along with its bigger sibling the Canon EOS R7. They're the first APSC Canon RF-mount mirrorless cameras, compared to the older Canon EF-M mount which was a compact, APSC-only mount.

Which camera is best for video shooting with price? ›

Professional Video Camera
  • Panasonic HC PV100 Professional Camcorder. ₹ 1.02 Lakh/ Unit Get Latest Price. ...
  • Watch Video. ...
  • Black Canon Professional Video Camera XA40. ...
  • 20x Hdzoom Lens Canon Xa11 Camcorder, 105MM, Digic Dv 4. ...
  • X. ...
  • Watch Video. ...
  • Black Sony Handycam Camera, Model Name/Number: CX405. ...
  • Save Time!

Which camera is best for night videography? ›

Which are the Best Cameras for Night Video?
  • Canon EOS R: (best camera for night video)
  • Sony a7S III: (best video camera for night vision)
  • Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: (best video camera for night sky)
  • GoPro 10: (best night vision action camera)
  • Canon EOS 90D: (best video camera for night recording)
11 Apr 2022

What size lens is best for video? ›

Lenses with focal lengths between 20mm and 100mm are much more common in video production, with 50mm lenses more or less approximating the field of view of the human eye. You'll also find that most manufacturers, including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Sigma and Tokina, make very similar 24-70mm zoom lenses.

Do professionals prefer Canon or Nikon? ›

There is no clear-cut winner between Nikon and Canon. All professionals use different brands of cameras. What they choose depends on a variety of factors, including budget, megapixels, speed, ease of use, and the type of photography they practice.

Do professionals use Nikon or Canon? ›

Nikon is the most popular camera brand used by professional photographers. 31% of professionals use Nikon, closely followed by Canon (28%) and Sony (20%). 6. Canon is the most popular camera brand used by amateur photographers.

Why Canon is the best camera brand? ›

Canon is an excellent brand, trusted by many photographers. Image quality and contrast are often good, and the dual pixel autofocus is excellent. Canon cameras tend to use brand-specific terms. For example, they use Tv on the mode dial to designate Shutter Priority Mode.

What is considered a professional grade camera? ›

Professional-grade cameras are designed to be used by professionals, and they're built to last. They're also designed to be easy to use, so you can get great shots without having to spend hours learning how to use them.

Who is Canon's biggest competitor? ›

Canon's competitors and similar companies include Leica Camera, Sony, Seiko Epson and Xerox.

What lens do most filmmakers use? ›

Standard. Focal length: Full-frame around 50mm; APS-C around 35mm; MFT 20-25mm. These lenses offer natural-looking perspective. They're good for two-shots of people, and mid shots (hips to head) but they give slight distortion if you use them for closeups.

Is 35mm or 50mm better for film? ›

Compare the images taken with both lenses from the same position and with the same settings. You would see that the 50mm gives you a shallower depth of field and better bokeh. The 35mm, on the other hand, will fit more into the frame, making it more suitable for landscape and indoor photos.

Which lens is best for cinematography? ›

We believe a combination of these three lenses makes for a well-rounded videography lens kit:
  • The 50mm prime lens. A true workhorse lens, the nifty fifty is the best approximation of human vision. ...
  • The 28mm wide-angle lens. Every film project needs a wide-angle lens. ...
  • The 70-200mm telephoto lens.
29 Jul 2022

Which is better for video Nikon or Canon? ›

Although the gap between Nikon and Canon has almost been bridged when it comes to video, Canon is still ahead of the game. Canon offers better video autofocus and has a long history of offering high-quality video lenses.

Which camera is best Sony or Canon? ›

When it comes to mirrorless cameras, Sony has a head start and more features to show for it, like in-body stabilization and better eye autofocus; Canon has the better DSLRs, however, and a greater lens selection. That doesn't mean you should just eenie-meanie-minie-mo your decision between the two brands, however.

Is Canon a professional camera? ›

The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III is Canon's flagship DSLR and its the best professional DSLR currently available. Its AF system, which is designed with pro sports photographers in mind, is superb and the 1D X Mark III can shoot at up to 20fps to capture once in a lifetime moments.

Which camera is best 1080p or 4K? ›

Purely talking about specs, 4K is objectively better than 1080p. It captures much more information and allows for a wider area of view.

Which camera is best for everyday use? ›

The 5 Best Cameras For Beginners - Fall 2022 Reviews
  • Best Camera For Beginners. Nikon D3500. ...
  • Best Lower Mid-Range Camera For Beginners. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. ...
  • Best Mid-Range Camera For Beginners. Sony α6100. ...
  • Best Upper Mid-Range Camera For Beginners. Nikon Z 50. ...
  • Best Bridge Camera For Beginners. Panasonic LUMIX FZ80.
21 Nov 2022

How many megapixels is good for a camera? ›

A decent 6-megapixel camera is good enough for most normal camera usage. Go for higher megapixels only if you wish to use your images for canvas-sized prints or large hoardings. If your interest is in night sky photography, then too a higher megapixel camera can be important.

Why are mirrorless cameras better? ›

A mirrorless camera can shoot completely silently. This means that if you're shooting wildlife, you don't have to worry about the sound of the mirror flicking up and scaring your subject; and if you like to shoot street images, you can do so without drawing attention to yourself.

What is the new camera for 2022? ›

Canon EOS C50 and C90

Also expected to join the party in 2022 are the Canon EOS C50 (opens in new tab) and C90, two more cinema cameras with RF lens mounts. While we don't know much at present, we're hoping we won't have long to wait, as these cameras are expected to make their debuts around the midpoint of the year.

What was the last Canon film camera? ›

You'll know that the last professional film cameras were the best film cameras ever made. And since the Canon EOS 1V was the final 35mm professional SLR that Canon built, you'll know that it is quite simply their best. Made in the year 2000 and produced until 2018, it proudly ushered out the era of film.

What does EOS stand for Canon? ›

EOS stands fo Electro-Optical System. But like the other "names" is just a brand name by Canon. Powershot means nothing in itself but generally it is Canon's line of P&S cameras. Numbers in the name just signify a difference in features and newer models.

Which Canon camera is best for cinematography? ›

Which is the Best Canon Camera for Filming and Photography?
  • Canon EOS 6D Mark II: (best canon camera for filming and photography)
  • Canon EOS RP: (best canon camera for filming and photography)
  • Canon EOS R6: (best canon camera for filmmaking and photography)
  • Canon EOS R5: (best canon camera for filming and photography)
14 Apr 2022

What DSLR camera should I buy for videography? ›

Best DSLR For Video in 2022: 6 Top DSLR Cameras For Filming Video
  • Canon 5D Mark IV. The 5D Mark IV is an amazing DSLR for just about everyone. ...
  • Sony A77 II. ...
  • Canon EOS 80D. ...
  • Nikon D6. ...
  • Nikon D3300. ...
  • Nikon D7500.

Are Canon DSLR good for video? ›

Canon EOS 90D

With uncropped 4K video and a range of frame rates – particularly in full HD – this is an ideal mid-level DSLR. The fully-articulating touchscreen makes it ideal for capturing all sorts of angles, including presenting to camera, while the Dual Pixel CMOS AF puts in a good performance when shooting video.

What is the best budget filmmaking camera? ›

10+ Best Cameras for Filmmaking on a Budget
  1. Panasonic Lumix S5 (Editor's Choice) Panasonic Lumix S5. ...
  2. GoPro HERO10 Black. GoPro HERO10 Black. ...
  3. Canon EOS RP. Canon EOS RP. ...
  4. Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10. Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10. ...
  5. Sony Alpha a6400. Sony Alpha a6400. ...
  6. Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema 4K. ...
  7. Panasonic LUMIX G85.
5 Oct 2022

What focal length is best for filming? ›

Focal length: Full-frame around 50mm; APS-C around 35mm; MFT 20-25mm. These lenses offer natural-looking perspective. They're good for two-shots of people, and mid shots (hips to head) but they give slight distortion if you use them for closeups.

Which is better for videos Nikon or Canon? ›

Here, Canon has a significantly better video and low light management system. The reason is that Z7 is two years older. Significant improvements in mirrorless cameras have taken place over the past few years. Nikon is threatening to win both of these categories with the release of Z6 II and Z7 II.

Which DSLR is best for 4k video? ›

All Reviews
ProductRelease Year4k Video Autofocus Performance
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV20168.3
Sony α7 IV20219.7
Nikon D78020207.3
Canon EOS R620209.0
10 more rows
29 Nov 2022

Which is better for video DSLR or mirrorless? ›

In terms of autofocus for video, mirrorless takes the lead. Because mirrorless cameras have phase-detection focus sensors while many DSLRs cannot use it with the mirror flipped up during video, DSLR video quality is often blurred during focus. DSLRs have to use the slower, contrast-detection focus method.

Are video cameras better than DSLR? ›

For events and news, good camcorders are better. Audio is easier and they're easier to pick up and start shooting. And by the time you've stopped down the lens on an SLR to give you enough depth of field for a fast-moving scene, there sometimes isn't that much difference in low light performance.

Which Canon DSLR has video autofocus? ›

If you need a hybrid camera with excellent video features and advanced autofocus, the Canon EOS R5C is your camera. Considered by the company as a hybrid between the R5 and the C70, some of its features include: 4K120 recording. HDMI RAW output.

Videos

1. Best Canon Cameras For Video in 2022 [Top 5 Camera Picks Reviewed]
(CameraGurus)
2. What Camera Should I Buy in 2022? (Complete Camera Buyer's Guide for YouTube)
(Think Media)
3. Best Beginner Camera - 2022 - What you need to know
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4. Which Canon Mirrorless Camera should you buy?
(Tony & Chelsea Northrup)
5. BEST BEGINNER Camera Buying Guide for YOU 2022!
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6. Videography Camera: ✅ Best Videography Cameras 2022 (Buying Guide)
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