Are you looking for the best mirrorless camera for streaming? Our list consists of the top cameras for streaming, YouTube, Twitch, and online meetings.
Live streaming has become increasingly popular and a sort of necessity for many industries after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is also essential for you to find the best camera for live streaming to create high-quality videos. A basic webcam can do the job for you but it cannot compete with a digital streaming camera in terms of overall quality and results. It will not only enhance your content but also increase your viewers considerably.
However, choosing a good camera for streaming can turn out to be more difficult than you can imagine. You have to choose from a vast ocean of cameras and can easily buy the wrong one.
That is why we have compiled a list of best cameras for streaming. But – we have only covered mirrorless cameras to be more specific, leaving out webcams, camcorders, and DSLRs. We will discuss these categories in other guides on our website.
Best Mirrorless Cameras for Streaming
Mirrorless bodies can become superb cameras for streaming due to their big sensors and high video resolution. The following are the ultimate mirrorless cameras that you can use for streaming according to our experts.
| Image | Tripod Name | Sensor | Video Resolution | Check Price |
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 | Panasonic Lumix GH5 |
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 | Nikon Z50 |
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 | ony Alpha a6400 |
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 | Canon EOS RP |
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 | Fujifilm X-T2 |
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 | Canon EOS R |
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 | Panasonic Lumix GH4 |
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| Check Price |
 | Panasonic Lumix G7 |
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 | non EOS M50 Mark II |
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 | Sony Alpha A7 III |
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1. Panasonic Lumix GH5: Best Mirrorless Camera for Streaming
Panasonic Lumix GH5 is perhaps the finest streaming camera in the consumer mirrorless market. Already an affordable choice, its price is only going to decrease after the launch of the Panasonic Lumix GH5 Mark II.
It is the first camera in the world to have 4K videos at a whopping 60p. Similarly, you can also shoot silky smooth videos with excellent motion compensation. It even allows you to record slow-motion footage without losing details.
Another nice feature is the built-in 5-axis image stabilization both for images and 4K video recording. It even compensates for lens shake that is hard to find in other cameras.
It is compatible with a wide range of fantastic MFT lenses. The fully articulating touchscreen enables you to shoot videos from different angles as well.
The 20 megapixels camera is devoid of a low pass filter to take sharp images and videos. The dust and splashproof body can withstand extremely cold temperatures. You can use the weather-sealed camera even in the harshest of environments.
In my opinion, Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a perfect choice for professional vloggers and serious streamers alike. It is a compact and lightweight camera with a lot of advanced features and functions for streamers for a very good price.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
Best all around camera for photography and video. Dual ibis and wheather sealed. This thing is still way ahead of some cameras out in 2022. 4k 60fps video and 6k photo. Highly recommended!
2. Nikon Z50 Mirrorless Camera: Affordable Mirrorless Camera for Streaming
Nikon Z50 is one of the most successful mirrorless cameras in the world. Just like all other Cameras in the Z series, it is also equipped with features to live stream.
It is fairly easy to live stream with Nikon Z50. All you need to do is to install Nikon Webcam Utility software on your computer and connect the camera with the provided USB cable.
The camera itself is small and lightweight with 21 megapixels sensor. The large 55mm Z mount ensures high image quality and superb low light performance. The “Selfie” flip-down touchscreen is an ideal option for vlogging and selfies.
It has 4K UHD video recording features but also for spectacular super-slow motion videos by shooting in Full HD at 120p. Similarly, you can record beautiful 4K time-lapse sequences as individual images or a video.
The high-resolution electronic viewfinder, built-in mood filters, silent mode, and ergonomic body are some of the camera’s other notable features.
The camera lacks a microphone jack, making it difficult to evaluate sound quality. Similarly, it does not have an A/C Power adapter.
All in all, Nikon Z50 is a cheap mirrorless camera for streaming compared to other models on our list. Still, it packs a lot of features and functions for you to stream easily and effectively.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
I was wanting a mirrorless camera for a very long time, and I finally caved and got this one. It is a great camera and I love everything about it.
3. Sony Alpha a6400: Best Streaming Mirrorless Camera
Sony Alpha a6400 has terrific video and streaming qualities, much to the pleasure of videographers and streamers. It is one of the most popular mirrorless cameras by Sony and for good reasons.
To begin with, it can record in 4K Ultra High Definition with full pixel binning and readout. Similarly, it shoots in super 35mm format, resulting in spectacular video quality. It also shoots in Full HD 1080P at 120p for slow-motion videos.
The camera boasts real-time autofocus with 425 autofocus points each for phase and contrast detection. Sony also claims that a6400 has the world’s fastest 4D FOCUS autofocus. It only takes 0.02 seconds to track even the fastest moving objects. The fast hybrid autofocus also allows smooth focusing for movies.
The 24.1 megapixels sensors with little to no noise at high ISO are very impressive. It helps you create beautiful bokeh and background blur in your images and footage.
The 11fps continuous shooting is ideal for quick action but only for images though. However, the 180° tilting screen allows effective and easy shooting both for stills and videos.
The connectivity features include both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and it is a breeze to stream videos on the internet as well. The external microphone jack is just icing on the cake.
The only problem with the camera in my opinion is the lack of image stabilization.
In short, the Sony Alpha a6400 is an ideal choice for streaming because of its wide array of video features. You can use it to capture brilliant stills and videos and share them on the internet.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
4. Canon EOS RP: Affordable Mirrorless Camera for Webcam
Canon EOS RP is an affordable option when it comes to turning your camera into a webcam or using it for streaming. It is a lightweight and compact camera with features like 5-stops of shake correction, 26 megapixels CMOS sensor, 4K video, and Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus for high-speed focusing.
The Autofocus also has customizable areas and it excels in the dark as well. The large sensor combines with DIGIC 8 image processor to produce high-quality still as well as videos. It helps you take impressive close-ups using the 0.5x magnification of the provided lens.
You can use the camera as a webcam by installing the EOS Utility Webcam software. Similarly, you can live stream your videos through the clean HDMI output.
Unfortunately, EOS RP cannot process RAW images and it can be a big letdown for some. Therefore, you must look for other options if you want to shoot RAW images as well.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
Fast, great features, easy to use alas menu is a bit complicated. overall super happy with this small but loaded camera.
5. Fujifilm X-T2: Best Camera for Live Streaming Concerts
Fujifilm X-T2 is another great camera for streaming thanks to 4K UHD video and a host of other exciting features. The 24 megapixels sensor and the highly advanced X Processor Pro Engine offer accurate colors, lower noise, and faster autofocus and response time.
The camera features high precision and an extremely fast viewfinder with a lag time of just 0.005 seconds. It records videos in 4K at up 30p, making it a good choice for professional videos and vlogs.
The intelligent hybrid autofocus ensures fast yet accurate tracking, even of the unpredictably moving objects.
Apart from the viewfinder, X-T2 also has a 3-inch LCD with three directional tilt. The camera is dust and moisture resistant and therefore, you can use it to stream from outdoors as well. Fujifilm’s renowned film simulation mode further enables you to be extra creative while recording videos.
The handling of the camera is simple and quick courtesy of lockable dials. Similarly, dual SD card slots mean you have more space to store your images and videos.
The most frequent complaint regarding the camera is the low battery life. Similarly, it does not have in-body image stabilization which is necessary for handheld shooting.
Fujifilm X-T2 is the best mirrorless camera for streaming for its fast hybrid autofocus, the precise OLED viewfinder, X Processor Pro Engine, and robust body. You can easily stream your videos using this camera from anywhere you want.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
For the price point, this camera is awesome – especially with the latest Fuji update for 4K + 120FPS + fLog
6. Canon EOS R: Best Mirrorless Camera for Webcam
Canon EOS R is a great camera for live streaming because of its clean HDMI feed. You can use the live HDMI feed to live stream besides turning your camera into a webcam.
Canon EOS R has a 30 megapixels full-frame sensor along with DIGIC 8 image processor. Similarly, it can record videos in 4K at 30p, Full HD at 60p, and 720p at both 60p and 120p for super slow-motion. As a result, it delivers exceptional image and video quality.
It also has quite a fast Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus. You can manually select from 5655 AF points. The built-in electronic viewfinder as well as the 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen further facilitates you to capture images and videos easily.
Another great thing about the camera is the compatibility with a wide range of Canon’s EF/EF-S and the newer RF lenses.
Unfortunately, the camera does not have image stabilization and shoots 4K images with 1.7x crop.
Available for around $1400, Canon EOS R is an excellent midrange camera for streaming and can be used as a webcam despite some shortcomings.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
Great Camera I would highly recommend, it’s got amazing features and quality!
7. Panasonic Lumix GH4: Excellent Streaming for the Price
You must consider Panasonic Lumix GH4 if you are looking for the best digital camera for streaming. It has a 16 megapixels sensor, electronic viewfinder, 3-inch LCD, and a host of other features for streaming and vlogging.
It records beautiful videos in 4K at 24p. Similarly, the 16 megapixels sensor combines with 4 CPU Venus engine to capture high-quality raw footage as well as RAW and JPEG stills. The engine also makes the camera extremely fast.
The HDMI output enables you to stream without using any extra hardware as well.
GH4 is tougher than the newer G7 (see below) because of its magnesium alloy body. You can also take the camera with you anywhere you want thanks to outdoor weatherproofing. And, you can avail of all these features by spending just $700.
Some people do complain about problems with focusing and refocusing. Otherwise, it is a great little camera offering all the features you require for streaming at a very low price.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
I cannot say enough about this camera model. I’ve been a fan of MFT cameras for about 3 years now. I’ve owned 2 other brands and 1 Lumix GX9 model. The Panasonic Lumix GH4 is top notch in quality and use. My GX9 will become my secondary camera now. I make my living with cameras and this one will get plenty of use.
8. Panasonic Lumix G7: Best Camera for YouTube Live Streaming
Panasonic Lumix G7 is another affordable yet superb camera for streaming. It is especially ideal for YouTube streaming because of features like quick speed, brilliant 4K videos at 30p, and a lightning-fast internet connection.
The 16 megapixels camera takes sharp stills and videos due to its high dynamic range. Apart from the 4K video, the 4K photo model enables you to extract images from the videos as well.
The camera also features AF with Depth from Defocus autofocus, one of the fast autofocuses types in the world.
The camera is easy to control through front and rear dials. The OLED viewfinder, 3-inch tilting display, and an external mic port make it streaming friendly. On top of that, the clean HDMI output means it is a breeze to stream with this camera.
Despite all its features, it is not an ideal camera for beginners because of its rather complex settings that only professionals can understand.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
I love that I can transfer all the photo to my phone directly frome my camera . Well build and I love the look of the camera
9. Canon EOS M50 Mark II: Cheapest Mirrorless Camera for Streaming on Our List
Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a great camera for both vlogging and streaming. It is not only cheap but also has some excellent features for both these purposes.
It records in 4K UHD at 24p and 120p for slow-motion besides having a flip screen. Similarly, it has a port for the external microphone to enhance the audio quality of your videos.
The camera has 24 megapixels sensor with DIGIC 8 image processor, quite impressive for its price. It also performs exceptionally well in low light due to its ISO range of 100-25600 (extendable to 51200).
You don’t need a capture card or any extra hardware to stream with Canon EOS M50 Mark II as well. The clean HDMI output is enough to stream in cinematic quality or use the camera as a webcam. You can even charge it on the go through the USB port.
One of the best features of the camera is vertical shooting. Therefore, it is the best mirrorless camera for streaming, especially for social platforms such as Instagram.
You should consider problems like 1.5x crop in 4K and lack of built-in image stabilization before purchasing this camera.
However, available for around $700, it offers much better quality than a webcam without emptying your pocket. It is the best budget mirrorless camera for streaming by a fair distance.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
A good camera if you’re looking for blogging, it’s super light which is what I wanted. If you can buy a Smallrig cage it would be ideal
10. Sony Alpha A7 III: Best Mirrorless for Streaming
Sony Alpha A7 III is a high-end camera with excellent features for streaming. It is an ideal camera if you are serious about live streaming and want fantastic video quality.
The camera is compatible with some brilliant lenses thanks to its FE mount. On top of that, it can record videos and stream simultaneously, and thus, it is also among the best mirrorless camera for live streaming.
Sony A7 III pairs all these features with gorgeous 4K videos at 60p. Similarly, it can shoot Full HD 1080P at 120p for super slow-motion videos. The 24 megapixels back-illuminated full-frame CMOS sensor combines with the latest BIONZ X image processors to impart a spectacular look to your images and videos.
The camera has some other very useful features for streaming such as the ability to charge with a USB. The fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen enables you to frame your videos from different angles. The full-frame 35mm lens is broad enough to cover a wide field of view as well.
All in all, Sony A7 III is a terrific camera for streaming. It is a bit expensive but worth the price if you don’t want your videos to look like as if they were recorded in the 80s.
Users’ Reviews
This is what users have to say about this camera.
Quick focusing portable FF all around camera. Can use Canon L lenses with MC-11 adapter. I use for all around photography. Beautiful images.
Necessary Hardware and Software for Streaming
You may need different kinds of equipment before you can stream live. The following are some of the most important of these components.
Internet Connection
You need a fast internet connection for seamless live streaming. As you might already know, your internet’s upload speed is always far slower than the download speed. That can be a real problem while you stream your videos.
Slow upload internet speed can decrease the resolution of your video if it cannot keep up with the footage. Similarly, the bandwidth of your connection can also fluctuate, resulting in a significant drop in the video quality. Your internet connection can be responsible for the low-quality streams, especially if you have top-tier streaming equipment.
External Microphone
External microphones help you improve the audio quality of your videos. It is important if you want to stream professionally. People can make instant judgments after hearing the sound even if they don’t see your videos.
A dedicated microphone is always better than a built-in mic no matter how good it is. An external mic offers much better results, especially if you are far away from the camera.
Light
You can dramatically enhance the quality of your streaming videos using well placed lights. Lights can separate yourself or your subject from the background besides adding character and shape to your video. Even mediocre settings will look spectacular if you have great lighting to work with.
Encoders and Capture Cards
You need a capture card or an encoder to connect your camera to your computer for streaming if it does not have a USB cable or HDMI output. Capture cards have USB or HDMI connectors to connect your camera with the computer. It mirrors the video on the camera’s LCD and displays the same on your computer.
You can also convert the video signal from one form to another using an encoder. For example, it converts an unreadable video signal from the camera and converts it into a readable or streamable signal for your computer.
Best Mirrorless Camera for Streaming: What to Consider?
You need to consider a lot of things while buying the best streaming mirrorless camera. Some of these factors are as below.
Excellent Overall Image and Video Quality
Compression or low internet stream can already be great setbacks for live streaming. Therefore, you want videos of the highest quality. Full HD will do the job for you but you should at least look for cameras with 4K video resolution.
Clean HDMI Output
Clean HDMI output is necessary for streaming your videos directly without a capture card. However, you also need HDMI output to connect the camera with the capture card if you do need one. HDMI also ensures the output is devoid of interface or menu.
Good Low Light Performance
Some people also stream from darker rooms. Therefore, a camera with a strong image processor such as DIGIC 8 or DIGIC X image processors in Canon cameras can go a long way to ensure good performance in low light situations. However, most professional streams have excellent lighting setups in their rooms as well.
Long Battery Life
You may have to stream for hours and therefore, your camera should have a long battery life. However, your camera cannot run forever and therefore, you should have a charging source nearby. You can also use external power adapters to keep your camera charged, especially if you are streaming from outdoors.
A Flip-out Screen
It is also important to monitor and control your camera during live streaming. A flip-out screen cannot only help you to do just the same but also enables you to change settings easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are mirrorless cameras good for streaming?
Mirrorless cameras are ideal for streaming. They are mostly lightweight and compact but offer the same image and video quality as DSLR cameras. However, you may need to connect your mirrorless camera to a capture card or an encoder for live streaming.
2. Can you use a mirrorless camera as a webcam?
Yes, you can use some mirrorless cameras quite easily as a webcam. For example, it is a breeze to convert Canon’s EOS mirrorless cameras into a webcam. All you need to do is to install the EOS Webcam Beta Software and you are good to go.
3. What mirrorless cameras have no recording limit?
Most mirrorless cameras have 30 minutes recording limit. One of the most notable cameras without a recording limit is the Sony a7R IV. It offers a whopping 61 megapixels sensor, 6K and 4K video resolutions, unlimited recording time, and much more.
Final Thoughts
With this, we conclude our guide to the best mirrorless camera for streaming. We hope you are able to find the right mirrorless camera that meets most of your streaming requirements without breaking your bank after reading this comprehensive guide. We have mostly tried to cover affordable mirrorless cameras for streaming with a couple of exceptions.
However, you can forward suggestions in the comments sections and let us know if we have missed a camera that deserves a place on this list.