Live streaming has opened a gamut of opportunities to capture and share your best moments with the world. It is not only exciting but a demanding job that requires the right tools to engage and connect with the target audience.
DSLR cameras are one of the many options. These devices are equipped with several features and functionalities that can help you achieve the results you are looking for.
This article will shed light on the 11 best DSLR cameras for streaming. We have broken down their features to help you make an informed decision.
| Title | Nikon D7500 | Canon EOS 90D | Pentax K-3II | Canon EOS 5D Mark IV | Sony α7S II | Canon EOS Rebel T7 | Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 | Canon EOS 4000D | Nikon D3300 | Canon EOS REBEL SL3 | Hollyland VenusLiv |
| Prime status | Available | Available | Available | Available | Available | Available | Available | Available | Available | Available | Available |
| Star rating | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.2/5 | 5/5 | 4.7 | 4.3/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.8/5 | N/A |
| Review | 661 | 886 | 5 | 60 | 1 | 3,295 | 102 | 1,550 | 155 | 1,479 | N/A |
| Megapixels | 16 MP | 32.5 MP | 24 MP | 30.4 MP | 12.2 MP | 24.1 MP | 18.1 MP | 18 MP | 24.2 MP | 24.1 MP | 12 MP |
| Maximum resolution | 4K Ultra HD and 1080p Full HD | 4K UHD 2160p | 6016 x 4000 | 6720 × 4480 | 4240 x 2832 | 6000 x 4000 | 4896 x 3672 | 5184 × 3456 | 6016 × 4000 pixels | 6000 x 4000 | 1080 x 1920 |
| Frame rate | UHD 4K at 30fps, 60 fps in full HD and 8 fps | 10fps | 8fps | 30 fps at 500 Mbps | 30fps | 3.0 fps | 30fps | 3.0 fps | 5fps | 4k at 24 or 25 fps and 1080p or full HD at up to 60fps | N/A |
| Connectivity | USB | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | USB | Wi-Fi and NFC | USB | Wi-Fi, USB | MicroUSB | USB | USB | USB | Wi-Fi, LAN |
| Field of view | 170° | N/A | 100° | N/A | 38.5° | 180° | 180° | 95° | N/A | N/A | 80° |
| Zoom | 5x | 0x | N/A | .1x | N/A | 2.2x | 60x | 3x | 3.1x | 3x | 6x |
| Price | $669.99 | $1,199 | $796.97 | $2,496.79 | $1,709.95 | $478.00 | $369.00 | $348.99 | $319.98 | $749.00 | $999.00 |
Nikon D7500
Price: $669.99 on Amazon
Features:
- 180k-pixel RGB sensor for subject recognition
- In-camera batch Raw processing
- 3.2″ tilting touchscreen LCD
- Bluetooth and wi-fi
- 20.9 megapixel CMOS Sensor
- ISO range up to 51,200
- 4K UHD2 or Full HD time-lapse movies
- Power aperture control for brightness shifts
Nikon D7500 is a mid-range DSLR camera that offers Full HD video recording feature at a frame rate of 60fps. You can make screen tilts and awkward angles if required while streaming, but forward tilt is not possible.
The high ISO performance makes it a suitable DSLR for working in low-light conditions, something you might need during streaming. Contrast-detect AF in Live View mode will be useful for live streamers.
With each battery, you get almost 80 minutes of video recording. Also, this camera is lightweight, so carrying it along is hassle-free.
Pros:
- Fast frame rate and largest buffer
- Excellent image noise cancellation
- Weather-sealing
Cons:
- Only one card slot
Canon EOS 90D
Price: $1,199 on Amazon
Features:
- DIGIC 8 image processor
- 220k pixel RGB+IR metering sensor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detection AF
- Fast continuous shooting up to 10fps
- iTR focus tracking keeps fast-moving objects in focus
- Maximum ISO 25,600 in low light
With Canon EOS 90D, you get the highest resolution sensor of all the APS-C cameras in the market. Integrated with high frame rates, Canon EOS 90D can shoot a 4k video with no crop mode, as seen in its predecessor. The video quality is high.
EOS 90D uses Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system to improve the autofocus performance in a live view. The midsize DSLR offers raw image quality and a live view autofocus with eye detection. You can choose AF points separately for vertical and horizontal shooting.
The Intelligent optical viewfinder gives you the freedom to use the camera for long periods such as for live streaming. Along with it is a focal plane shutter that is electronically controlled.
Pros
- Weather sealed
- Excellent image quality
- Touch screen
Cons
- Single card slot
- Kit lens quality mediocre
Pentax K-3II
Price: $796.97 on Amazon
Features:
- 1080p HD movies
- Wi-fi and NFC connectivity
- Geotag images with no accessories
- Interchangeable Natural-Bright-Matte III focusing screen
- Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery D-LI90
- Wide viewing TFT color LCD with AR coating and Air-gapless glass
Pentax K-3II is a semi-professional DSLR camera available with a resolution of 24.35-megapixel. It has an APS-C sensor but without an anti-aliasing filter.
K-3II supports multiple frame rates for full HD 1920 x 1080 video recording in the high-quality H.264 format. There is also a Shake Reduction system; it is helpful in live streaming. This camera is more affordable than other cameras with these features; perfect for beginners.
Pros
- Broad sensitivity range
- Durable magnesium alloy body
- Dual SD card slots
- Intelligent on-demand low-pass filtering
Cons
- Relatively bigger in size
- No built-in flash strobe
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Price: $2,496.79 on Amazon
Features
- New 30.4MP CMOS full-frame sensor with Dual Pixel AF
- DCI 4K 30/24p video using Motion JPEG
- 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type sensors
- DCI 4K Video Recording/DCI 4K video recording
- Built-in intervalometer for time-lapse imagery and supports recording 1-99 consecutive frames
- Dual Pixel AF
- 7 fps continuous shooting
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a robust 30.4-megapixel sensor that captures beautiful pictures with vibrant colors and impressive details. It can easily shoot a 4K video at 30 frames per second and handle Full HD videos at 60fps. The autofocus system with 61 focus points ensures your shots are sharp and quick.
This DSLR camera is also a top option for low-light situations. With an ISO range of 100-32000 to 50-102400, it performs well in challenging lighting conditions.
In terms of connectivity, it comes with built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and GPS features. While you may not need the geotagging feature for streaming, you can control the camera remotely using these options.
Pros
- Anti-reflection and anti-smudge coatings
- Multi-shot noise reduction
- 3 total-recall memories on the mode dial
Cons
- Focus screen is not interchangeable
Sony α7S II
Price: $1,709.95 on Amazon
Features
- BIONZ X™ image processing engine
- 35 mm full-frame, Exmor® CMOS sensor
- 5-axis optical image stabilization
- Multi slot for Memory Stick Duo™/ SD memory card
- Fast Intelligent AF
Sony α7S II is a DSLR camera with excellent features you can leverage while live streaming on Facebook or YouTube. It is capable of shooting clear 4K videos and has a smart system that makes them look even better.
12 MP A7S II camera also works well in bright and dark places, capturing many details. It can also be used to take slow-mo videos.
Pros
- High ISO image quality
- 4K, 120-fps Full HD videos
Cons
- Makes noises at high ISO
Canon EOS Rebel T7
Price: $478.00 on Amazon
Features:
- DIGIC 4+ Image Processor responsive performance
- Built-in Wi-Fi®* Capability, NFC capability
- Remote shooting and wireless printing
- 9-point AF System and AI Servo AF for an enhanced shooting experience
- Scene Intelligent Auto Mode
- Transparent LCD in the viewfinder
- ISO 100-6400, Up to 3 fps Shooting
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a really good DSLR camera for recording videos in Full HD. Full HD 1080p at 30fps implies that you get crisp video quality. The refined, smart autofocus works precisely to capture videos while streaming live.
The camera comes with a built-in Wi-Fi and NFC to share your photos and videos and even control the camera from your phone. The best feature of this camera is the optical viewfinder that can focus and frame shots perfectly with 95% coverage.
The EOS Utility Beta Software allows using this camera as a webcam too.
Pros
- Realistic colors
- Limited noise in images
- A popup flash unit included
- Portable size
Cons
- Limited speed
- No 4K video
Panasonic LUMIX FZ80
Price: $369.00 on Amazon
Features:
- 10 frames per second continuous shooting
- 60x zoom lens
- RAW format support
- 3-inch touchscreen LCD display
- 4K UHD video recording
- Built-in Wi-Fi
The Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 DSLR camera comes with an 18.1-megapixel sensor and a lens that can be adjusted to get beautiful pictures. It can record 4K videos at 30 frames per second.
However, to shoot a video in 4K, use an HDMI cable with the HDMI logo for compatibility. Also note that the time required for recording may vary depending on how you use it, the intervals between recording, and the environment.
The LCD display on the camera is easy to use and understand. It supports a 60x zoom lens and a new higher-resolution image sensor. It has a contrast-detect that requires decent light to autofocus.
Pros:
- Versatile lens
- Excellent zooming ability
- Great battery life
Cons
- Fixed Lens
Canon EOS M4000D
Price: $348.99 on Amazon
Features:
- Optical viewfinder with 9-point autofocus
- Creative filters to apply unique effects
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- 18 megapixel APS-C sensor
- Optical Image Stabilizer on compatible lenses
- Automatic selection of up to 9 points
- Electronically-controlled focal-plane shutter
Canon EOS M4000D has an 18 MP resolution and a top-of-a-line CMOS sensor, making the images and videos look sharp and vibrant. The shooting speed is 30 fps, and the DSLR camera has a 3X optical zoom; some other cameras in this range don’t have a zoom feature.
EOS M4000D offers quick, accurate autofocus, improving your shooting experience and preparing you to capture the scene in real-time. The high resolution of 920,000 dots with a wide 170° field of view makes streaming enjoyable.
Pros:
- Well laid-out controls
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Low-resolution screen
Nikon D3500
Price: $319.98 on Amazon
Features
- 24 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- 11-point autofocus system through the optical viewfinder
- Full HD 1080/60p video
- Shoots continuously at 5 frames per second
- Battery rated for 1,550 shots per charge
- Bluetooth for image transfer
The Nikon D3500 is another exceptional DSLR camera for live streamers. The camera carries a 24.2-megapixel sensor and an EXPEED 4 image processor to take pictures even in dim light.
You can use Nikon D3500 to record Full HD videos at 60 frames per second. It can also capture fast-moving objects at 5 frames per second. This camera is cost-effective and a good option for beginners; they can use it as a webcam for live streaming.
Pros
- Compact in size
- Automatic image transfer via Bluetooth
Cons
- No mic input
- No 4K video
- Fixed LCD omits touch support
Canon EOS REBEL SL3
Price: $749.00 on Amazon
Features
- Approx. 95% vertical/horizontal coverage
- Customized DISP button settings
- High-speed continuous shooting
- Digital AF/AE single-lens reflex camera, with built-in flash
- Contrast detection when recording 4K movies or 4K Time-lapse movies
- Fully articulated rear touchscreen
The Canon EOS REBEL SL3 can shoot high-quality 4K videos. The CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 processor make the photos and videos look vibrant and beautiful.
A useful feature in this DSLR camera for streamers is autofocus which keeps everything in focus without giving blurry pictures. Next, with a 3″ LCD screen, you can rotate the camera using your phone through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Pros
- Remote control with a smartphone possible
- Allows sending images to a Wi-Fi printer
- Automatic battery check with power switch turned ON
- Lightweight camera design
Cons
- Incompatible with third-party flash units
- No in-body image stabilization
Hollyland VenusLiv
Price: $999.00 on Amazon
Features:
- 6x Zoom
- HDMI interface
- 3.5mm mic port
- 1080 x 1920 pixels
- 3.1 and 2.0 USB-C interfaces
- LAN and Wi-Fi connectivity options
- Built-in gyroscope for UI screen rotation
- Horizontal and vertical mounting capability
- DC power supply or External NP-F battery for uninterrupted power
One-Stop Wireless Live Streaming Camera.
The Hollyland VenusLiv isn’t a DSLR camera. However, it is a highly reliable choice if you’re searching for cameras specifically made for streaming. VenusLiv allows you to livestream a series of activities, including podcasting, indoor and outdoor streaming, and live selling/shopping. Besides, many users also find this camera great for recording online courses.
Backed by a Sony CMOS 12 MP sensor and a 5-inch LCD touchscreen display with color calibration, the VenusLiv offers true colors of subjects or objects throughout your stream. Besides, this camera has a built-in Hollyland Color Correction Magic tool, permitting you to fine-tune your videos’ colors just the way you want.
The Hollyland VenusLiv has selectable presets for scenes, such as green screen options and a wide range of lighting scenarios, making it an adaptable device for high-quality streaming. What’s more? This camera comes with a powerful autofocus functionality with contrast and phase technology. Plus, the camera operates through the HollyOS system, which means you can control different functionalities with a single touch, such as focus adjustment.
Hollyland VenusLiv also guarantees an uninterruptable experience to you with the help of the latest aerospace-standard heat dissipation characteristic that helps get rid of unexpected shutdowns and frame stuttering due to overheating.
Pros:
- It offers real-time autofocus
- It is compatible with several Hollyland wireless mic kits
- The device is easy to set up and has a user-friendly interface
- This camera has a built-in sound card with three reverb options
- Quick (one-click) streaming on all famous platforms, like Facebook and YouTube
Cons:
- You may need to have a high level of lighting to stream high-quality images
Factors to choosing a camera for streaming
Read below to get an understanding of the many reasons why you should choose a specific camera.
Types of Cameras for Streaming
DSLR
The first camera type is the obvious DSLR. These are one of the most popular camera types for sharp video recording and are super easy to use. They’re designed for computers and can connect with a simple USB cable. They may give you different, super high-quality images than those fancy expensive cameras, but they’re perfect for newbies or anyone looking to save cash.
Camcorders
Camcorders offer excellent image stabilization capabilities for live streaming. Specially designed for video creation, they are loaded with manual controls and external microphone inputs. While it’s true that the image quality of camcorders is not at par with mirrorless cameras or DSLRs, they are still considered all-rounders in fulfilling streaming requirements.
Webcams
Webcams are an excellent camera option if you plan to stream while sitting in one place. Easy to use, webcams can be connected to the computer via USB. Note that webcams are not your laptop cams; these are different. Their image quality is not as high as other cameras; however, they can be a good investment for beginners.
PTZ Cameras
PTZ or pan-tilt-zoom cameras are the most sought-after cameras for live streaming events. You can control them remotely and shoot different shots and angles, panning, tilting, and zooming. These cameras work well in low light and come with integrated audio capability ensuring a high-quality streaming experience. Just connect them to a video switcher or a computer and stream effortlessly. However, they are pricier than other camera types but worth it.
Resolution
Video resolution is the most important thing to consider for live streaming. In simple terms, the resolution is the number of pixels on your screen. There are three main types of resolution: 720p, 1080p, and 4K. While steaming at 720p will give you decent results, it is 1080p that can provide a better video quality. But if you want the highest video quality, go for a 4K resolution camera. Though only a few platforms support live broadcasting in 4K, that is expected to change. So, consider a 4K camera for the future.
Autofocus
Autofocus in cameras ensures that your subject looks precise, even if the lighting changes or they move around a lot. So to stream, getting a camera with fast autofocus is best. This helps when you are filming in places with not-so-great lighting. Autofocus is even helpful if you’re trying to figure out the best lighting setup with LED studio lights.
Field of view
A camera’s field of view (FOV) is the area a camera can cover. So, if you are capturing only one person sitting in front of a computer, go for a camera with a smaller FOV. But to fit two people sitting side by side, you need a camera with at least a 78-degree FOV to keep them both in the frame. For live streaming bigger groups, getting a camera with a wider FOV is recommended to capture more area in a single shot.
Microphone
Several cameras come with built-in microphones to record sound too. But, for live streaming, one must use a separate standalone microphone for the best audio quality. For streamers on a budget, a camera with a built-in microphone is a good alternative. It is better than depending on the microphone built into your computer or tablet. To get the best audio experience, look for a camera with a stereo mic design. This means there are two microphones on each side of the camera. This setup records higher-quality audio tracks compared to the basic cameras with only one microphone.
Recording
See if the camera can record videos while streaming live. If it can, you can save the streamed video for future use. But not all camera models can do that. Check before buying. Here’s how you can find out if your camera can do both: Connect it to a TV and press the record button on the camera. If the recording starts and you can still see the live feed on the TV screen, then your camera can do both simultaneously.
Low light performance
When you have to record in places with low light, it’s vital to have a camera that can handle the environment. This is especially important if you don’t have the perfect LED lights to brighten up your setup. A camera having good low-light performance ensures your video looks bright and clear even in poorly lit spaces while streaming.
Connectivity
The next factor in camera selection is the connectivity option. Some cameras have a special USB C port, like a plug. This port helps charge the camera faster, move pictures and videos quickly between devices, and even lets you connect to the internet using WiFi for remote work. But if you want high video quality and a super stable connection, using a regular cable is better.
Another option is HDMI. This feature helps in removing on-screen overlays from your stream. The result is a more immersive video; your audience can enjoy your content without distractions.
Price
The price of DSLR cameras can vary from a few hundred dollars to thousands. Think about your requirements before you go shopping. Begin by listing the most important features you are looking for, including good autofocus, a high frame rate, and a built-in camera. Once you shortlist as per your needs, read the reviews and proceed. Purchasing a live streaming camera with this strategy will help you stay within your budget.
Other Factors
No overheating
If you plan to stream for more than an hour, chances are that your camera will get heated up, especially mirrorless and DSLRs. So, use a dummy battery and an AC power adapter instead of USB power. This can help prevent overheating.
Runtime
To save battery power, some DSLR cameras have a feature that automatically turns them off after 30 minutes of inactivity. This could cause concern when doing longer live streams. So, check if your camera has this automatic shutoff feature and if there is a method to turn it off in the camera settings. Once turned off, you can ensure your camera stays on and doesn’t shut down during live streams.
Final Thoughts
All these DSLR cameras are perfect for live streaming. However, Nikon D7500 and the Canon EOS 90D stand out slightly more. These cameras have high-resolution sensors, can record in 4K, and come with fast AF systems. They also have tilting touchscreen LCDs, which are helpful for live streaming.
If you want a more affordable option, the Nikon D3300 is an excellent choice. Well, no matter which camera you choose, research and find one that is right for your needs and budget.
FAQs
Can I use a DSLR camera for streaming on Twitch?
Yes, you can. A DSLR camera will enhance the overall quality of your video content, whether you are live streaming on Facebook, YouTube, or Twitch.
Why should a streamer use a DSLR camera?
A camera with a nice lens and a large sensor will make you look good. Also, it will help you prevent screen fatigue we all are prone to due to our long screen time.
