Live streaming became extremely popular during COVID-19. Since people were staying home more, they were in need of entertainment. Live streamers of all kinds started putting out more content because the demand increased. Gaming/esports streamers were and still are the most popular, but entertainment, music, professional content, and everyday life streamers are keeping up their positions too. There are more eyes than ever interested in watching live streams on Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. So, if you’ve decided to start your own live stream for your community, you’re on the right track.
Whether you’re new to live streaming or have been doing it for a while, there is one thing you should know. Video quality is one of, if not the most, important factors for live stream viewers. It doesn’t matter if you’re sharing exciting news, posting extremely useful content, or just vlogging your day – most people won’t want to watch it if you have poor quality. So, investing in the best camera for live streaming should be your priority.
Of course, it’s easier said than done. How do you choose the one you need to match your preferences and needs? Keep reading, and Tech I Want will help.
- Our Top Picks
- 1. Logitech BRIO Ultra HD Webcam
- 2. Razer Kiyo Streaming Webcam
- 3. Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam
- 4. GoPro HERO Black
- 5. TONGVEO 10X PTZ Camera
- 6. Mevo Start
- 7. MOKOSE UC40M-3.2MM
- 8. Mevo Plus
- 9. Unzano HD920
- 10. Canon XA11 Professional Camcorder
- Features to look for before buying a camera for live streaming
- Video Resolution
- Frame Rate
- Zoom type
- Image stabilization
- FAQ
Our Top Picks
1. Logitech BRIO Ultra HD Webcam
- SUPPORT WORK FROM ANYWHERE WITH SYNC: Whether employees are in the office, at home, or somewhere else, Sync device management software helps everyone stay connected by letting you ensure their...
- Ultra 4K HD resolution: 4 times the resolution of a typical HD webcam; look your best and enjoy professional video experience wherever you are with 5x HD zoom.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ 4K resolution | ❌ Premium price |
| ✔️ Light correction technology | ❌ No image stabilization |
| ✔️ 2 omnidirectional noise-canceling mics |
Specifications
- Resolution: 4K/1080p/720p
- Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 4 inches
- Zoom: Digital HD 5x
- Frame Rate: 30fps
- Special features: Infrared, RightLight3
The Logitech BRIO webcam is an enterprise-grade webcam for video conferencing and live streaming. It’s lightweight, easy to adjust thanks to its detachable mounting clip, and compatible with most enterprise communication platforms. With a 7.2 ft USB (A & C) cable connection and facial recognition login, this live streaming video camera gives you all the necessary features you need for a sit-down, low-movement stream.
Since it shoots at 30fps, it won’t be the best choice for high-movement shots like vlogs or sports. Nevertheless, it features 2 omnidirectional noise-canceling mics, so you can consider this as one of the best cameras for live streaming a Q&A or a storytelling piece. At this premium price, you get exactly what you pay for. If you’re serious about live streaming and this webcam matches your profile, it’s definitely worth it.
2. Razer Kiyo Streaming Webcam
- FULL HD RESOLUTION — Experience crisp, detailed video and audio recording in 720p 60 FPS / 1080p 30 FPS. Works great for streaming, gaming, recording, video calling, conferencing, and online school....
- CONVENIENT, BUILT-IN LIGHTING — Features a 5600K daylight-balanced ring light around the camera that provides even lighting without the hassle of additional lighting equipment
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Built-in adjustable ring light | ❌ Somewhat heavy (7.05 ounces) |
| ✔️ Great price | ❌ Questionable durability |
| ✔️ High frame rate | |
| ✔️ No need for additional lighting | |
| ✔️ Made for live streaming |
Specifications
- Resolution & frame rate: 720p at 60fps / 1080p at 30fps
- Dimensions: 2.72 x 2.72 x 1.86 inches
- Special feature: Superior low light performance
The Razer Kiyo is produced by one of the most renowned Gaming Peripherals manufacturers, so they know what they’re doing. Thanks to its built-in ring light around the camera, you won’t need any additional lighting. The light has multiple brightness levels controlled by a rotating bezel, so you can choose the one you like most without changing internal settings. This live streaming video camera also performs amazingly in low-light conditions with its grain reduction and detail highlighting.
We consider this as one of the best webcams for live streaming on the go because of its foldable, compact design. At an affordable price and great quality, this webcam is a bang for your buck.
3. Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam
- Web Camera specifically designed and optimized for Professional quality video streaming on social gaming and entertainment sites like Twitch and YouTube
- Stream and record vibrant, true-to-life HD 1080P video at 30Fps/ 720P at 60FPS. Compatibility- Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 10, macOS X 10.9 or higher, XBox One, Chrome OS, Android v5.0 or above,...
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Doesn’t lag | ❌ Not fit for vlogging |
| ✔️ Great Quality | |
| ✔️ Affordable | |
| ✔️ Rich stereo audio |
Specifications
- Resolution & frame rate: 720p at 60fps / 1080p at 30fps
- Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.71 x 3.74 inches
- Perfect for: Twitch & YouTube
- Special features: Light Correction
The Logitech C922x has the perfect balance between price and quality. It’s affordable and gives an amazing resolution image with automatic light correction. With an adjustable mount, you can take it with you, mount wherever you can, and stream on the go. It also features a 60fps frame rate, so you can move around freely without worrying about poor-quality video.
If you were looking for the best camera for YouTube, this one might be it. It’s perfect if you’re on a budget and need something to get the job done right.
4. GoPro HERO Black
- 5K Video - Shoot stunning video with up to 5K resolution, perfect for maintaining detail even when zooming in
- 20MP Photo with SuperPhoto - Capture crisp, pro-quality photos with 20MP clarity. And with SuperPhoto, HERO 9 Black can automatically pick all the best image processing for you
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Impeccable quality | ❌ Premium price |
| ✔️ HyperSmooth 3.0 image stabilization | |
| ✔️ Live streaming at 1080p on social | |
| ✔️ Front display | |
| ✔️ Waterproof | |
| ✔️ Universal use |
Specifications
- Resolution: 5K, 4K, 2.7K, 1440p, 1080p
- Frame rate: up to 240fps for 8x Slo-Mo
- Waterproofness: down to 33ft
- Special features: HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization, Detachable lens
One of the most well-known tiny cameras in the world – the GoPro HERO9 Black is the best camera for live streaming when it comes to fast-paced high-movement shots. Not only can you film sit-down live streams, but you can go off-roading with a bike and live stream your adventure with this premium camera. It’s waterproof and made to withstand rough conditions. It also features a front display for your convenience.
GoPro built this camera with HyperSmooth 3.0 image stabilization and the ability to film at 240fps in 1080p for 8x Slo-Mo videos. If you want to be a live-action streamer, this is your best option. Many also consider it to be the best camera for YouTube vloggers. The one downside that the GoPro HERO9 Black camera has is its premium price.
5. TONGVEO 10X PTZ Camera
- ✔PTZ CAMERA WITH 10X OPTICAL ZOOM - Our PTZ Camera is equipped with a 1/3 inch HD Color CMOS with 2.1 megapixel(16:9), Full HD 1080p output resolution and high dynamic image of 30 fps. The superior...
- ✔SMOOTH AND SILENT PTZ MOVEMENT - Our PTZ camera can rotate 350° horizontally (±175°) and 90° vertically (-35°～+55°). Quickly control camera pan, tilt, zoom, move into preset position for a...
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ 350° x 90° viewing capability | ❌ Premium price |
| ✔️ 1080p 30fps image | ❌ Not fit for high-movement live streams |
| ✔️ Various mounting options | |
| ✔️ Easily tilt, zoom, and control |
Specifications
- Resolution & Frame Rate: 1080p, 30fps
- Zoom: 10x Optical
- PTZ rotation: 350° horizontally, 90° vertically
- Controls: Remote control, via computer, PTZ Keyboard Controller, and conferencing solution via USB cable
- Mounting options: On desk, monitor, wall, ceiling via screws (upside down), and tripod
The 10X PTZ live streaming video camera by TONGVEO is made for conference calls and sit-down, low-movement live streams. The camera can be tilted 350° horizontally and 90° vertically to view almost its entire surroundings. It can be controlled via remote control, computer, PTZ keyboard, etc. This is the best camera for live streaming church services or other conference meetings.
At a premium price, this camera is for a narrow audience. If it fits your needs, then it’s completely worth it.
6. Mevo Start
- STUNNING HD VIDEO QUALITY — Live stream and record in stunning 1080p HD resolution with crisp, detailed imaging, right out of the box.
- STREAM ANYWHERE — Go where the story takes you. Stream live from anywhere in the world using Wi-Fi, Ethernet or even your smartphone’s LTE network.
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Wireless | ❌ No image stabilization |
| ✔️ Uses WiFi, Ethernet, or LTE/4G from phone | ❌ Premium price |
| ✔️ Up to 6 hours of battery life | |
| ✔️ Multicam connectivity | |
| ✔️ Intelligent app control |
Specifications
- Resolution: 1080p HD
- Controls: live stream and video settings through the Mevo app
- Dimensions: 3.43 x 1.34 x 2.97 inches
- Special features: 3x omnidirectional noise-canceling mic array
The Mevo Start is the best camera for live streaming both cooking shows, sit-down Q&As, and gaming videos. You can keep your stream going for 6 hours wirelessly, but if you want to keep it going continuously, you can power it up through a cable. It has built-in WiFi, so you can stream wherever you like, so long as you’re connected.
It has 3x omnidirectional mics that make sure you have crisp audio. You can even connect 3 Mevo Start cameras together and live stream from different angles. Plus, you can control all your settings through Mevo’s intelligent app.
This is the best camera for YouTube still-shot, Multicam live streams with great audio for a premium price.
7. MOKOSE UC40M-3.2MM
- Capturing high definition live images up to 3840x2160/30FPS Per Second, Full Hd Video 1080P/30FPS Per Second For High Quality Live Streaming, Video Calling On Windows / Mac / Linux / Android
- CS-Mount Lenses（with IR Filter） can be change, Solid aluminum shell material, With 3 meters USB cable. Double 1/4 Inch Screw Thread placement easier for multi-angels placement needs for laptop,...
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ High resolution | ❌ Manual focusing |
| ✔️ Lightweight | ❌ Requires flat surface or screwing in place |
| ✔️ Great price | |
| ✔️ Wide-angle (85°) |
Specifications
- Resolution: 720p, 1080p, 4K
- Frame Rate: 30fps
- Dimensions: 48 x 48 x 47mm
- Weight: 2.82 ounces (80 grams)
- Hardware platform: PC, Mac, Laptop
- Special features: 1/2.5” 8MP CMOS image sensor
This MOKOSE 4K HD lightweight live streaming video camera is compact and features a wide 85° angle lens. If you’re looking for a UVC free driver camera for sit-down videos with crisp image quality, this may be the perfect one for you. You can screw it in place, connect it with its 5m cable, and you’ll be good to go. Plus, it’s compatible with most platforms and communication software.
At an affordable price, this MOKOSE camera can be your best first camera for live streaming.
8. Mevo Plus
- Stream to Vimeo, Livestream, Facebook, YouTube, Periscope and Twitter in up to Full HD 1080p from virtually anywhere over Wi-Fi or LTE.Included memory card size: 256.0 GB.Streaming bandwidth...
- Your mobile device is now your personal video editing suite - zoom, pan and cut with Ease, all from a single camera & app. Available for Android (6 or higher) and iOS (9.3 or higher).HD - Up to 3.5...
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Streams over WiFi or LTE | ❌ Premium price |
| ✔️ High-resolution image | |
| ✔️ Includes 256GB memory card | |
| ✔️ Intelligent app controls and autopilot live editing | |
| ✔️ Built-in mics and ability to plugin external mic |
Specifications
- Live stream resolution: 1080p full HD
- Recording resolution: 4K
- Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 2.5 inches
- Connection: WiFi connectivity
- Special features: Low light performance, Wide-angle (150º) all-glass lens
The Mevo Plus is the best camera for live streaming any event you want. You can go live at 1080p 30fps via WiFi or LTE and control the shots through the Mevo intelligent app. This camera performs great in low light and is compact enough to take it on the go.
At a premium price, this small gem is totally worth it. It might not be something you should start with, but this is an ideal option if you’re serious about starting your own live stream.
9. Unzano HD920
- 1080P Full HD Webcam: Equipped with 7 elements optical glass lens, powered by 1080p Full HD 2 Megapixel CMOS. This streaming camera provides crystal clear images and videos at resolutions up to 30FPS....
- Built-in Microphone with Noise Reduction: Dual digital stereo Mics provides superior stereo audio for purer and natural sound recording. And more, reducing the ambient noise automatically to enhance...
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Amazing price | ❌ Relatively large |
| ✔️ Easy setup | ❌ No wireless connectivity |
| ✔️ Full HD image | |
| ✔️ Good for sit-down live streams | |
| ✔️ Dual digital stereo mics |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 12.6 x 7.1 x 26.8 inches
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Material: Vinyl Tarpaulin & Sturdy Welded Seams
- Color: Black & Yellow
- Capacity: 30L
Coming up to the end of our best cameras for live streaming list, the Unzano HD920 is a standard webcam fit for Zoom calls and live streaming. It gives great quality shots even in low light and has digital image stabilization. The dual built-in stereo mics will transfer a crisp sound thanks to its noise reduction features.
This may be the best camcorder for live streaming sit-down type videos from the office at a very affordable price.
10. Canon XA11 Professional Camcorder
- Genuine Canon 20x High Definition Optical Zoom Lens
- New, Advanced HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor with Improved Low-light Performance
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Intelligent Image Stabilization | ❌ Made for professional recording and live streaming |
| ✔️ Crisp image in Full HD | ❌ Requires large budget |
| ✔️ Top-notch professional gear |
Specifications
- Resolution: Full Hd 1920×1080
- Image capture speed: 60fps
- Zoom: Genuine Canon Optical 20x HD
- Special features: 3 Optical & Electronic Image Stabilization Mode, LCD Touchscreen
Last but definitely not least on our list, here’s a top-notch professional camcorder for live streaming at the highest quality. It has Night Vision, Anti-Shake, Time Lapse capabilities, and much more. To put it short, the Canon XA11 is the perfect first camera if you’re looking to go into professional-style live streaming.
At first, the price might shock you, but the Canon XA11 is the best camera for genuinely professional live streamers.
Features to look for before buying a camera for live streaming
If you’re looking to buy your first live streaming video camera or just want to upgrade your existing one, there are specific features you must pay attention to. If you want to find the best camera for live streaming that fits your needs, consider the following.
Video Resolution
For a water-resistant backpack, the material plays a crucial role in defining the level of protection. The best Although 720p (high definition) used to be an amazing resolution for cameras, it’s the norm today. Cameras can now film at 1080p (Full HD), 1440p, 2.7K, 4K, and even 5K!
Frame Rate
If you want your videos to look smooth and not have rigid cuts from high-movement shots, you need a camera with a high frame rate, preferably 30 or 60fps.
Zoom type
Optical zooming is done by the lens, so it retains the image quality, while digital zoom quality becomes worse due to image magnification. If you’re going to utilize the zoom feature from time to time, make sure to find a camera with optical zoom.
Image stabilization
High-movement live streams would benefit a lot from image stabilization. This feature is also useful if you often shake your camera by typing or banging the table during your streams.
