If you are looking for the best 4K cameras, you may find the available choices a bit confusing. In the past, it was only found on high-end models, but today it has become a basic specification for everything from high-end broadcast equipment to cell phones. However, it’s fair to say that just because a camera offers 4K functionality doesn’t mean it’s the right model for you. Good quality 4K video is not just about high image resolution, so you also need to think about sensors, output formats, frame rates, etc.
Most consumer models allow you to shoot in 4K at up to 30 frames per second, but high-end models can give you 60 frames per second or more for a very smooth recording. If you plan to make color corrections, you will also need a camera that supports log profiles. Other specifications should also be taken into account, such as the zebra pattern, and the range of accessories compatible with the camera of your choice is also an important consideration. Putting all this together, it becomes obvious that not all 4K cameras are created equal.
Best 4K Cameras
So with that in mind, if you don’t know where to start, keep reading. We’ve put together the best 4K cameras you can buy, subjecting all of them to extensive testing to bring you our recommendations.
1. Fujifilm X-T4
Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless Camera Body - Black
- Putting stability in your hands: A huge part of creating great photos or videos is making sure you are in the right place at the right time – and that often means making handheld images to get to the heart of the action. X-T4’s state-of-the-art, five-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) provides up to 6.5 stops of image stabilization to make sure that, even in the midst of all the excitement, your images remain steady and sharp. Combine this with the new four-axis digital image stabilizer, and you have lots of room to maneuver.
- Putting stability in your hands: A huge part of creating great photos or videos is making sure you are in the right place at the right time – and that often means making handheld images to get to the heart of the action. X-T4’s state-of-the-art, five-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) provides up to 6.5 stops of image stabilization to make sure that, even in the midst of all the excitement, your images remain steady and sharp. Combine this with the new four-axis digital image stabilizer, and you have lots of room to maneuver.
- Performance you can rely on: For any serious image maker, having a tool that can be relied upon to perform flawlessly whenever it is required is extremely important. For this reason, X-T4 features a newly developed mechanical shutter that is the fastest and most robust in the history of the X series. Not only can it make images at 15 frames per second, but it is also rated for 300,000 actuations 2. When you combine this with its larger capacity battery that is capable of up to 600 frames per charge 2, X-T4 has the power and the durability to give you the peace of mind that you’ll never miss the perfect opportunity.
- Find the best angle for your story: When chasing the perfect image, versatility is key, so the last thing you want is to be hampered by awkward angles. The 1.62 million pixel vari-angle touchscreen LCD featured on X-T4 can be adjusted to make it visible from a wide range of positions. This not only gives you a high-quality monitor to frame with, but also provides quick and simple controls when you need them most. On the flip side, there are times when you need to minimize the light and distractions that a screen can create. That’s why X-T4’s LCD has been designed to easily fold away so it is completely hidden from view, leaving the updated 3.69 million pixel/100fps electronic viewfinder to help you focus on the moment at hand.
- When your story needs movement: The modern image maker is blurring the lines between photography and videography, and X-T4 has been designed to celebrate this new generation of hybrid creativity. With the simple flick of a switch, movie mode is activated, meaning X-T4 is capable of recording both professional-level DCI 4K/60p and Full HD/240p super slow-motion video. It is also possible to record F-Log footage in 10-bit color, straight to the card. What’s more, the innovative AF-C subject tracking works in low-light conditions down to -6EV and the camera’s use of a new, high capacity battery lets you push your creative limits.
- Powerful image manipulation made easy: For over 85 years, Fujifilm has produced photographic films that have been used by some of the world’s best-known moviemakers to create some of the world’s most successful movies. This legendary reputation in color science is celebrated with their hugely popular selection of Film Simulations, which digitize some of the industry’s most iconic films and puts them right at your fingertips. X-T4 introduces Eterna Bleach Bypass, the newest addition to this much-loved collection of film simulation modes available in the X Series product line, which creates a beautiful de-saturated, high-contrast look that any image-maker will find irresistible.
The Fujifilm X-T3 has been hard to keep up with, with high-speed continuous shooting, advanced autofocus, and class-leading 4K video capabilities, but the Fujifilm X-T4 takes it to the next level. Almost everything we wanted in the X-T3 is there, including body stabilization, a variable-angle touch screen, and increased battery life. We still want more (of course), including better buffer depth in continuous shooting mode, but that would be just the icing on the cake. The X-T4 isn’t just a great camera, of course. It also has state-of-the-art 4K video performance, with 60p 10-bit internal recording. It’s a shame that Fujifilm dropped the headphone plug (you’ll need an adapter now). Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
2. Sony A7S III
Sony NEW Alpha 7S III Full-frame Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera
- 12.1MP1 Exmor R sensor, optimized for 4K, sensitivity and speed
- New BIONZ XR processing engine delivers 8x more processing power2
- Low noise images w/ ISO up to 409,6003 and 15+stop dynamic range4
- Up to 4K 120p5 10-bit 4:2:2 and full pixel readout in all rec. modes
- 12.1MP1 Exmor R sensor, optimized for 4K, sensitivity and speed
- New BIONZ XR processing engine delivers 8x more processing power2
- Low noise images w/ ISO up to 409,6003 and 15+stop dynamic range4
- Up to 4K 120p5 10-bit 4:2:2 and full pixel readout in all rec. modes
- Up to 4K 120p5 in XAVC S (AVC), XAVC HS (HEVC) and XAVC S-I (All-I)
- Video capture resolution: 4K UHD 2160p
It may have been a long wait, but it seems to have been worth it. The Sony A7S III is the mirrorless camera that does what only professional movie cameras can do, i.e. filming in 4K at 60p without cropping, recording it internally, in 10-bit 4:2:2, and with no recording time limit. It may not have the 6K or 8K resolutions of other manufacturers’ cameras, but what it does, it does it exceptionally well. The other half of the A7S’s image is its legendary low-light performance, and the A7S III is a camera that can more or less see in the dark with its maximum ISO ceiling of 409,600. Pure photo enthusiasts will probably be put off by the low resolution, but if you’re interested in video, this is one of the best cameras you can buy. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
3. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K
- Full-size 4/3 sensor/ 4096x2160 resolution
- 4K DKI video recording at 60 fps / 13 stop Dynamic Range
- Carbon fiber composite build / Black magic operating system
- 5" touchscreen LCD / 4 built-in microphones
- Authorized Black magic Design Dealer - Includes 12 Month Limited manufacturer's
- Full-size 4/3 sensor/ 4096x2160 resolution
- 4K DKI video recording at 60 fps / 13 stop Dynamic Range
- Carbon fiber composite build / Black magic operating system
- 5" touchscreen LCD / 4 built-in microphones
- Authorized Black magic Design Dealer - Includes 12 Month Limited manufacturer's
If you want the best camera to shoot 4K video, then this is the right one. Blackmagic’s Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is designed for end-to-end filmmakers and is not to be considered if you’re looking to film still images as well. Based on a Micro Four Thirds sensor and lens mount, it has a huge 5.0-inch touch screen and is operationally video-centric, head and shoulders above other MFT shooters. The range of on-board connections is also best-in-class, and the fact that it has dual memory card slots outweighs much more expensive cameras like the EOS R.
Not to mention decent onboard audio recording capabilities and of course, the $299 worth of software – a license for DaVinci Resolve Studio is truly a gift that keeps on giving. Last but not least, the fundamental quality of its 4K video accepts much more expensive cameras and, when you know how to make it work, it handles noise better than some full-frame sensors as well, thanks to its native double ISO. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
4. Panasonic Lumix S1H
PANASONIC LUMIX S1H Digital Mirrorless Video Camera with 24.2 Full Frame Sensor,...
- Newly designed full frame sensor – 24 2MP full-frame MOS sensor offers a wide dynamic range and sharp natural expression at high sensitivity settings
- 6K 10-BIT VIDEO – Includes full-area 3 2 6K24p C4K(4 096 x 2 160) and anamorphic modes
- Newly designed full frame sensor – 24 2MP full-frame MOS sensor offers a wide dynamic range and sharp natural expression at high sensitivity settings
- 6K 10-BIT VIDEO – Includes full-area 3 2 6K24p C4K(4 096 x 2 160) and anamorphic modes
- Dual native ISO – offers the advantages of very high sensitivity for low-light shoots while suppressing noise levels allowing the camera to switch from a standard sensitivity to a higher sensitivity with almost no noise degradation
- V-log/v-gamut – features a wider 14+ Stops of dynamic range which are compatible with the Cinema VariCam look to capture everything from shadows to highlights
- Rugged Mirrorless camera design – dust/splash/freeze-resistant design withstands heavy field use under harsh conditions for high mobility
With the Lumix S1H, Panasonic has used its extensive video experience to bring many of its high-end VariCam features to the Lumix S series. The controls, interface, and certainly the hardware have been designed for video and film, and the fact that it is also a very practical 24MP camera is a bonus. It is a really convincing “bridge” between conventional cameras and high-end film cameras, especially for today’s Panasonic videographers. However, it is expensive and specialized, so it is not necessarily the first choice if you want to cut costs, even though the “regular” S1 now seems to be the second-best.
Its official Netflix accreditation is a major asset, but its continuous AF proved to be quite uneven in our tests, so that, combined with the considerable size and weight of this camera, it excludes the possibility of run-and-gun vlogger type videography. However, a recent upgrade to offer ProRes RAW output via HDMI to Atomos Ninja V devices adds to the S1H’s credentials as a regularly priced movie camera. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
5. Nikon Z6
Nikon Z6 FX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body w/ NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S
- New larger Z mount for revolutionary optical performance
- Nikon designed 24.5mp backside illuminated image sensor
- 273 point on sensor phase detect AF system
- Up to 12 fps; 4k ultra hd video; 8k time lapse; 120/1080p slow motion
- New larger Z mount for revolutionary optical performance
- Nikon designed 24.5mp backside illuminated image sensor
- 273 point on sensor phase detect AF system
- Up to 12 fps; 4k ultra hd video; 8k time lapse; 120/1080p slow motion
- Compatible with new z Nikkor lenses, over 360 f mount Nikkor lenses
There are many reasons to love the Nikon Z6, it has the same build quality and controls as the more expensive Z7, it can capture full-width 4K oversampled video and it is better with high ISO settings. And thanks to Nikon’s recent aggressive pricing, it is much cheaper. Photographers may prefer the Z7’s extra resolution of 45.7 megapixels, but for 4K video, the Z6 is clearly one of the best 4K cameras. Nikon’s internal image stabilization is really effective.
If you connect an external recorder, you can record 4:2:2 footage in 10-bit high quality – Nikon has also announced an agreement to allow RAW video capture on an external Atomos camera, although this requires a hardware upgrade. Nikon offers a high dynamic range N-Log mode for those who want the ability to perform color calibration work later, and eye AF has been improved (also thanks to a firmware update). Finally, the Z6 (and Z7) have been updated to be compatible with CFexpress memory cards.
6. Panasonic Lumix GH5S
PANASONIC LUMIX GH5S Body 4K Digital Camera, 10.2 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera with...
- PROFESSIONAL PHOTO AND VIDEO PERFORMANCE: 10.2-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and a significantly higher photoreceptive surface per pixel deliver an ultra-wide dynamic range; Dual Native ISO provides ultra-sensitive video capture with impressively low noise
- PROFESSIONAL PHOTO AND VIDEO PERFORMANCE: 10.2-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and a significantly higher photoreceptive surface per pixel deliver an ultra-wide dynamic range; Dual Native ISO provides ultra-sensitive video capture with impressively low noise
- RUGGED SPLASH/FREEZEPROOF DESIGN: Durable magnesium alloy body withstands heavy use out in the field and is freezeproof down to -10-degrees; Splash/dustproof construction with weather sealing on every joint, dial and button
- UNLIMITED IN-CAMERA RECORDING OF C4K: Capable of internal SD card capture of 60p50p 8-bit, 30p25p24p 4:2:2 10-bit, 4K: 60p50p 4:2:0 8-bit, 30p25p24p 4:2:2 10-bit; 1080p up to 240fps and C4K 60p VFR
- ANAMORPHIC VIDEO MODE: 4K Anamorphic professional video production interchangeable lens camera system enables high performance, durability and mobility
- CONNECTIVITY AND PORTS: TC In/Out/Synchro Terminal (via included BNC cable), 3.5mm mic jack with line input, 3.5mm headphone jack, 2.5mm remote socket, HDMI Type A Socket and USB-C 3.1 Socket; Available twin SD Card slots (UHS-II U3 compatible)
Although it can take pictures with a lot of happiness (although at a rather limited resolution of 10.2 Mpx), it should be considered first and foremost as a video camera; if you want to do both, you have the Lumix GH5 (below) to fulfill this mission. While the lack of built-in image stabilization may be a disappointment for some, this point, aside from the extent of the video features, is incredibly impressive. If you want to shoot professional-quality footage without having to re-mortgage your house to buy a professional video camera, you won’t find a better 4K video camera at the moment.
7. Sony A7 III
Sony a7 III ILCE7M3/B Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Black
- Advanced 24.2MP BSI full frame Image Sensor w/ 1.8X readout speed
- 15 stop dynamic range, 14 bit uncompressed RAW, ISO 50 to 204,800. Compatible with Sony E mount lenses. Can be connected via Bluetooth with smartphones featuring (as of the date of release)- Android (Android 5.0 or later, Bluetooth 4.0 or later), iOS (Bluetooth 4.0 or later)
- Advanced 24.2MP BSI full frame Image Sensor w/ 1.8X readout speed
- 15 stop dynamic range, 14 bit uncompressed RAW, ISO 50 to 204,800. Compatible with Sony E mount lenses. Can be connected via Bluetooth with smartphones featuring (as of the date of release)- Android (Android 5.0 or later, Bluetooth 4.0 or later), iOS (Bluetooth 4.0 or later)
- Up to 10fps silent or mechanical shutter with AE/AF tracking. Battery life (Still Images): Approx. 610 shots (Viewfinder) / approx. 710 shots (LCD monitor), battery life (Movie, continuous recording): Approx. 200 min (Viewfinder) / Approx. 210 min (LCD monitor)
- 693 phase detection / 425 contrast AF points w/ 93 percent image coverage. Focus sensor: Exmor R CMOS sensor
- In the box: Rechargeable battery (NP FZ100), AC adapter (AC UUD12), shoulder strap, body cap, Accessory shoe cap, Eyepiece cup, Micro USB cable. Metering type: 1200 zone evaluative metering
The fact that the Sony A7 III is halfway down our list shows how rapidly 4K capture technology is progressing, as when it was launched it set new standards for 4K capture among mirrorless cameras. But it is still the best A7 model for video in all areas. The new A7S III is even better for 4K video, but more expensive and limited to 12MP stills. The A7 III, on the other hand, is an excellent all-round camera for any photographer who wants to switch to full format without spending a fortune, and who also wants a good 4K video camera.
The A7 III achieves a frame rate of 30 frames per second but uses the full width of the sensor without any cropping factor to capture high quality oversampled 4K images. It features an S-Log mode for high dynamic range scenes and subsequent color calibration, as well as a fast and efficient AF system. If you don’t like the DSLR-style design, there’s also the new Sony A7C, but we’re not yet convinced that it brings something new to the table. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
8. Panasonic Lumix GH5
Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Mirrorless Camera with Lecia Vario-Elmarit 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 Lens...
- Professional quality photo and 4K video performance in a durable magnesium alloy body.
- Includes the LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 Lens (Power O.I.S. / 62mm Filter Tread / 4 ASPH / 2 ED)
- 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor with no low pass filter.
- Professional quality photo and 4K video performance in a durable magnesium alloy body.
- Includes the LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 Lens (Power O.I.S. / 62mm Filter Tread / 4 ASPH / 2 ED)
- 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor with no low pass filter.
- 5-Axis photo/video Dual I.S.. 2.0 up to 5 Stops with compatible LUMIX MFT lenses, plus In-body stabilization Support for classic non-O.I.S. lenses.
- 4K video: internal recording at 4k60/50P (4:2:0 8bit) & 4k30/25P/24P (4:2:2 10bit).
- Lens Type: Macro
- Mounting Type: Bayonet
Exceptional for both photos and videos, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a brilliant all-rounder. It displays high resolution, thanks to its ultra-high-resolution electronic viewfinder, its fully articulated touch screen, its 20.3MP image sensor, and its 4K 60p video recording, as well as its ultra-fast 6K 30fps and 4K 60fps photo modes. The DSLR-type design provides great handling features and easy access to advanced shooting settings. You also benefit from 5-axis sensor-shift stabilization and light-speed AF.
The only drawback is that the high number of megapixels in a Micro Four Thirds sensor results in a relatively limited ISO range. But all the same – by combining the first-class 4K still images and video functions, the GH5 is a camera that continues to maintain a solid reputation among serious filmmakers and bloggers. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
9. Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Black Camera Body
- Multi-selector (Joystick) for quick selection of the AF area while looking through viewfinder
- Dustproof/slash proof/freeze proof magnesium alloy weather sealed construction
- 50MP handheld high res shot
- 60 FPS (S-AF), 18 fps (C-AF tracking) continuous shooting with the silent electronic shutter
- Multi-selector (Joystick) for quick selection of the AF area while looking through viewfinder
- Dustproof/slash proof/freeze proof magnesium alloy weather sealed construction
- 50MP handheld high res shot
- 60 FPS (S-AF), 18 fps (C-AF tracking) continuous shooting with the silent electronic shutter
- 121 point all cross type on chip phase detection plus contrast detection AF
- Starry skies shooting mode
- Dual SD card slots
- IPX1 weather resistant rated
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is designed as a high-speed professional sports camera, also suitable for versatile use, but it also has impressive video capabilities. It can shoot 4K UHD (3840×2160) at 30 frames/second and 4K video (4096×2160) at 24 frames/second. It also benefits from Olympus’ 5-axis in-body stabilization system, which works in parallel with the optical stabilization of some newer Olympus lenses to provide up to 7 stops of stabilization.
The M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-100mm 1:4.0 IS PRO is the perfect finisher for this camera, combining an effective focal length range of 24-200mm with a constant maximum aperture of f/4. The Olympus captures crisp, clear, and natural movies with only slight rolling shutter effects and we found this latest version very adept at tracking fast-moving subjects freehand. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
10. Panasonic Lumix G9
PANASONIC LUMIX G9 4K Digital Camera, 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera Plus 80...
- Professional photo and video performance 20 3-Megapixel (Plus 80-megapixel high-resolution Jpeg/raw in-camera image) micro Four Thirds sensor with no low pass filter to confidently capture sharp images with a high Dynamic Range and artifact-free performance
- Professional photo and video performance 20 3-Megapixel (Plus 80-megapixel high-resolution Jpeg/raw in-camera image) micro Four Thirds sensor with no low pass filter to confidently capture sharp images with a high Dynamic Range and artifact-free performance
- Rugged splash/freeze proof design Durable magnesium alloy body withstands heavy use out in the field and is freeze proof down to -10-degrees splash/dustproof construction with weather sealing on every joint dial and button
- Class-leading dual image stabilization 5-axis Dual image stabilization corrects all lenses including classic lenses not equipped with O I S to eliminate Blur and nearly eliminate body and lens shake in both photo and 4K video recording
- 4K 60P video 4 2 2 10bit & slow-motion effects silky-smooth 4K 60P recording (QFHD 4K 3840 x 2160/MP4) in 4 2 2 10bit high-speed video recording yields a dramatic slow-motion effect in 4K (60 fps max 2x slower [30P playback]) or full HD (180 fps max 6x slower [30P playback]) quality
- Connectivity and ports listen to headphones with a 3.5mm audio port connect to devices with USB 3.0 and connect to an external monitor or external Recorder with a full-size HDMI port available Twin SD card slots (UHS-II U3 compatible)
- Lens Type: Telephoto
- Mounting Type: Bayonet
With a relatively high megapixel count for a Micro Four Thirds camera, the Panasonic Lumix G9 combines a 20.3 MP image sensor with super-fast autofocus and a continuous shooting speed of 12 frames per second. This speed increases to 30 fps for 6K photos and up to 60 fps for 4K photos. The ultra-high-resolution electronic viewfinder helps you follow the action down to the finest detail, and there’s a fully articulated touch screen in the back.
You can also expect to preserve the smallest details in your images with an excellent 6.5 f-stop stabilization system. Unusually for a compact system camera, a secondary LCD screen is also integrated into the top panel, which is useful for monitoring camera settings. This is without a doubt the quietest and one of the best 4K cameras you can buy right now.
11. Panasonic Lumix G100
Panasonic Lumix G100 4k Camera, Mirrorless Camera, Vlogging Camera, Micro Four Thirds...
- NEXT-LEVEL VLOGGING IS HERE: The G100 4K vlogging camera has the superior performance and portability, designed especially for content creators. Shoot, transfer, edit, and upload—in sparkling video and audio
- NEXT-LEVEL VLOGGING IS HERE: The G100 4K vlogging camera has the superior performance and portability, designed especially for content creators. Shoot, transfer, edit, and upload—in sparkling video and audio
- FEATURES FOR BEGINNERS AND EXPERTS: Intuitive, lightweight camera is packed with features to make content creation easy to learn and cultivate, from a Frame Marker to V-LogL recording
- ADVANCED OZO AUDIO WITH TRACKING: Audio tracking auto-adjusts the recording range and direction to record clearly in crowds, and during interviews, speeches, and selfies
- FRAME MARKER : Indicator of final picture area that includes 1:1, 4:5, 5:4 and 9:16 allows to check composition while recording
- COMPACT, LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: G100 is lightweight even with a lens attached to support one-handed recording
Bloggers and creative people, in general, will appreciate the simplicity of the Lumix G100, which makes it easy to capture high-quality videos and photos thanks to the accessible button layout. Even people who are not interested in the technical aspects of capturing high-quality videos will be able to achieve results with this device. There is an inherent risk of oversimplifying things when creating a camera for social media creators, but Panasonic has avoided this pitfall with the Lumix G100.
By giving it a decent viewfinder and “good camera” ergonomics, Panasonic has given the G100 an edge in a very competitive market. It’s a great camera to start with if you’re more interested in vlogging than conventional photography and useful improvement over the GX80/85, both in resolution and video features. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
12. Sony Alpha A6400
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with...
- Next Gen speed: experience the world’s fastest 0. 02 sec AF with real-time AF and object tracking
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84% of the sensor
- Fast & accurate: up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24. 2MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
- Next Gen speed: experience the world’s fastest 0. 02 sec AF with real-time AF and object tracking
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84% of the sensor
- Fast & accurate: up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24. 2MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
- Multiple movie functions: make time lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos without post processing
- Tiltable LCD screen: customizable for vlogging, still photography or recording a professional film
- In the box: rechargeable battery (NP-FW50) AC adaptor (ac-uud12), shoulder strap, body cap, accessory shoe cap, eyepiece cup, micro USB cable.Metering Range: -2 to 20 EV
The A6400’s lack of internal stabilization and headphone jacks can make the A6400 feel under-equipped for video recording. But its excellent image quality (smooth motion, impressive levels of detail), rugged magnesium alloy construction, affordable price, and most importantly, its superb advanced autofocus system make it an ideal candidate for most 4K cameras. Autofocus, which includes excellent tracking of eyes and faces in real life, makes video and still images much easier to shoot, especially if you frequently film other people – or yourself.
Sony’s A6600, the top-of-the-line model in the range, retains many of the features and functions of the A6400 but adds internal stabilization, a headphone jack, and longer battery life. We’ll be looking at whether this model is worth the price, but for now, the A6400 is our choice at Sony. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
13. Panasonic S1
Panasonic LUMIX S1 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera with 24.2MP MOS High Resolution...
- Full frame sensor – 24. 2-Megapixel full-frame (35. 6mm x 23. 8mm) MOS sensor that provides a wide dynamic Range and excellent performance at high sensitivity (is 51200 Max sensitivity)
- Lumix S camera lens – easy-to-use 24-105mm standard focal macro zoom F4 l-mount for Lumix S Series full-frame l-mount digital Mirrorless cameras
- Full frame sensor – 24. 2-Megapixel full-frame (35. 6mm x 23. 8mm) MOS sensor that provides a wide dynamic Range and excellent performance at high sensitivity (is 51200 Max sensitivity)
- Lumix S camera lens – easy-to-use 24-105mm standard focal macro zoom F4 l-mount for Lumix S Series full-frame l-mount digital Mirrorless cameras
- 4K HDR VIDEO - 4K 60p/50p, 4K 24/30P unlimited recording, 4K60P 29: 59 min limited recording. HDR Mode and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG). V-Log with Internal 4: 2: 2 10-bit 4k30/24p (4K60p output only) available via optional software upgrade key.
- 96MP high resolution mode – a sensor shift technology suitable for taking very high-resolution Landscapes and fine art photos via tripod with toggleable motion correction capabilities
- Rugged Mirrorless camera design – dust/splash*/freeze-resistant design withstands heavy field use under harsh conditions for high mobility
This may be the newest of two models to launch Panasonic’s all-new S system, but the S1 is probably the best option for videographers. For starters, it captures 4K UHD footage using the full width of its full-screen sensor – no cropping factor here – and offers full-pixel playback up to 30p. It can also record 10-bit 4:2:0 footage internally using the HEVC/H.265 codec, and an upgrade scheduled for later this year should unlock even higher specifications. Videos can be shot in 4K up to 60p (with a 30-minute time limit) and there are several gamma curve profiles onboard, including Hybrid Log-Gamma.
In the real world, all this translates into very high-quality videos. The body can be heavy, but sensor image stabilization keeps the fluidity of pocket images, while the roller shutter is only a problem if the S1 is suddenly shaken. The built-in microphone performs surprisingly well, although external ports for microphone and headphones will be more popular. Overall, this is one of the best 4K cameras right now.
