Bird photography is hard. It can require years of practice, expensive equipment, and endless patience. We don’t have any of those, so we really like the Bird Buddy, which puts a camera in a feeder that brings your avian models to you. Usually $279, this clever contraption is just $209 right now at Amazon for Black Friday—making it something for the birds, even if the discount is anything but. It’s a phenomenal gift and a gateway to a whole new hobby.

Bird Buddy Bird Feeder Camera $209 (was $279)

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The Bird Buddy took home the best overall title in our list of the best bird feeder cameras. Setup is simple: Just mount the feeder, connect it to the app, fill it with food, and get ready to observe some birds. The camera is smart so it can recognize what kind of feathered friends it sees while they feed. It will automatically capture images of the birds and catalog them so you can look at your avian visitors later. It can even send live alerts to your phone when birds arrive so you can watch in real-time.

Even if you’re not the biggest birding fan, this is a super cool way to see nature from an up-close view that would otherwise be impossible.

Once you’ve ordered your Bird Buddy, go check out our big list of the Best Black Friday deals to kill time before it arrives.

The post The best bird feeder camera is cheaper than ever at Amazon for Black Friday appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Blink Mini		SEE IT	A small camera packed with features like motion detection.
Best system		SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System		SEE IT	Expand from protecting just one room with this system.
Best budget		WYZE Cam v3		SEE IT	Simple, cheap, easy.

Indoor security cameras can be invaluable if you’re curious about what happens when you’re not home. How are your pets when it’s your day to go to work? Are the children revolting against the babysitter? You can ponder about it and give yourself a heart attack or simply set up a camera and see for yourself. We don’t think setting one up will reveal new horrors to you, but we do think you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have an eye on your home when you’re not there. Extra features like motion detection, voice assistant compatibility, and cloud storage allow you to get the most out of your new indoor viewpoint. Ensure your house is a shenanigan-free place with the best indoor security cameras.

• Best overall: Blink Mini
• Best system: SimpliSafe 9 Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera
• Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2
• Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam
• Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

How we chose the best indoor security cameras

I’ve previously written about the commercial security industry in a past life, so I know what features to look out for when purchasing a DIY model. I also edit/oversee the majority of smart home coverage here at the ye olde PopSci Gear desk (#subjectmatterexpert). To choose the best indoor security cameras, I looked at reviews, recommendations, did heavy research, and looked at past home security coverage for inspo.

The best indoor security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Some of these cameras do double duty and can work outdoors, but any of these models is made to keep a careful, watchful eye over your hearth and home.

Best overall: Blink Mini

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Wired
• Viewing angle: 110 degrees diagonal
• Storage: Cloud storage

Pros

• Two-way audio
• Day and night HD video
• Motion detection

Cons

• Needs more cameras for more comprehensive coverage

The Blink Mini is a practical, wired palm-sized cube packed with features outside its $35 price tag. If you want the most approachable way to get 1080p livestream video with infrared night vision into your Alexa-maintained (or IFTTT-automated) monitoring routine, this is the best minimalist model to pick. It’s incredibly compact and features motion detection and two-way audio. More cameras, restricted to available wall sockets, might be required for the most comprehensive, widescreen coverage, but it’s not a heavy lift at this price. It also doesn’t feature the same audio triggers as Ring devices and only saves clips to the cloud. If you’d like a device with a 360-degree view, consider the Blink Mini Pan-Tilt Camera.

Best system: SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Rechargeable battery 
• Viewing angle: 90 degrees
• Storage: Cloud storage only

Pros

• Lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box
• Outside cam has a very good quality video with 90 degrees field of view
• Easy to install and use
• Comes with a professional monitoring option
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant 
• Includes convenient magnetic mount

Cons

• Expensive
• Lacks support for HomeKit 

If you’re looking to install an indoor security camera and a DIY home security system along with it, the SimpliSafe 9-Piece Wireless Home Security System might be your best bet. It’s pricey but far less expensive than buying the components individually. But even more importantly, it lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box.

The kit includes a 1080p camera, a base station, keypad, two motion sensors, and four entry sensors. All the components, including the cameras, connect to the base station, generating a loud siren to scare off intruders. Although the inside security camera isn’t the most robust model, the outside camera offers very good quality video with color night vision. What’s also nice is that the SimpliSafe mobile app (for iOS and Android) is nicely designed to let you effectively interact with your entire setup, and it comes with the option of including a professional monitoring system. However, for the price, it would be nice if both cameras had the option to store videos locally. 

Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 4K
• Power: Wireless
• Viewing angle: 180 degrees
• Storage: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage (sold separately)

Pros 

• Compatible with major smart technologies
• Cloud subscriptions are relatively inexpensive
• Color night vision is very good

Cons

• Lacks support for HomeKit compatibility
• May not be as sturdy as other models

This wireless, weather-resistant security camera isn’t one of the cheapest on the market, but it captures excellent 4K video. It also provides you with the option of storing your videos in cloud storage or on local storage using a microSD memory card. 

Two cameras are included in this bundle, and you can use them indoors and outdoors. You can see faces, license plates, and there’s even color night vision. WiFi isn’t required to use, thanks to the Arlo Smart Hub. A 180-degree field of view catches everything happening in the room. And, with an Arlo Secure Plan, you can receive notifications for people, vehicles, packages, or ward off unwanted indoor guests by triggering the siren.

Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Rechargeable battery
• Viewing angle: 130 degrees diagonal, 110 degrees horizontal, 57 degrees vertical
• Storage: Cloud (available with subscription)

Pros

• Robust app
• Lots of accessories and integrations
• Indoor- and outdoor-friendly

Cons

• Strategic placement is important
• Some features require Ring’s cloud plan

When you hear the brand Ring, you may immediately think about doorbell cams, which is understandable. But this Ring is more versatile, at home on any flat surface or wall. This Ring Stick Up Cam Battery has 1080p video with a 110-degree horizontal/57-degree vertical field of view, so strategic placement is important. And some features require paying for Ring’s cloud plan, but it’s a quickly up-and-running value with a robust app, particularly great for folks who already have Alexa devices (Amazon now owns Ring). And, because it’s an Amazon product, there are copious accessories (such as solar panels) for those inclined to upgrade.

Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Power: Wired
• Viewing angle: 130 degrees
• Storage: microSD card

Pros

• Two-way audio
• IP65 weather resistance
• Continuous recording with microSD card

Cons

• Lacks removable battery

While it won’t win awards for aesthetics (unless you have fond memories of playing with building blocks as a child), the WYZE Cam exceeds in inexpensive efficiency as long as you don’t mind dedicating some in-home space. The WYZE outdoor security camera is weather-resistant for deployment around your home (network) perimeter, but it’s also easily detachable with a “Travel Mode” that allows you to take the camera with you to record video directly to your phone without WiFi. There are sacrifices—like the lack of a removable battery, so you have to dismount the entire camera for charging—but it’s magnetically connected, so that’s just a simple twist.

What to consider when buying the best indoor security cameras

Easy-to-install indoor security cameras capture just “standard” HD all the way up to 4K, storing video locally or in the cloud, permanently or temporarily. Some are part of entire home security systems.

Wireless security cameras continue to evolve at a dizzying pace, with many models coming with better connectivity and cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve a host of features. However, if you’re new to these types of cameras, it can be confusing to figure out which features, specs, and capabilities are important for you and your home security cameras. 

Here is what you should look for when you purchase an indoor security camera: 

Video resolution and field of view 

You’ll see 1080p, 2K, or 4K resolutions in indoor security cameras. A higher resolution means you’ll get a crisper image. It will also fill up your local or cloud storage faster. That’s a problem if your subscription plan or card has a fixed limit to its capacity. If you’re trying to balance subscription costs for cloud storage with what resolution you’ll need, consider how detailed of a picture you’ll need. If you need more detail, go with a higher resolution. 

You’ll also want to check a security camera’s field of view specification, which is measured in degrees and tells you how much of a particular scene your security camera is capturing. The higher the FOV number indicates a wider lens and lets you see more of a particular scene in front of your house.  

Power options and storage

When setting up a new indoor security camera, you must consider where to install it. If it’s a light bulb camera, it has obvious restrictions. But you can post the wireless, battery-powered models we recommend anywhere. Wired options, however, require a nearby outlet.

Most indoor security cameras store video in the cloud, which is convenient, but you’ll most often have to pay a fee to access them. So, if you don’t want to pay a fee for a cloud service, consider models that let you store them on a memory card. 

Other features to look for

Many brands have introduced privacy features like two-factor authentication to ensure devices are not compromised or hacked. Many brands are also making security cameras that integrate with smart home features and connections to voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and others. Some brands even offer professional monitoring services for extra protection with a subscription.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best indoor security cameras

• Best overall: Blink Mini
• Best system: SimpliSafe 9 Piece Wireless Home Security System w/HD Camera
• Best 4K: Arlo Ultra 2
• Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam
• Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

You may not be able to have eyes in the back of your head, but you can have eyes in your own home. Look for an indoor security camera with a wide frame of view to capture it all, and consider wireless options so placement isn’t a problem. If you’d like to compile a highlight reel of all that’s happened in your home, you can take that video from the cloud or a microSD card and use some editing magic to make it happen. Regardless, you won’t need to sleep with one eye open. Or maybe you will, since you discovered what the dog does when you’re not around.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best indoor security cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera		SEE IT	With its wealth of functions and excellent affordability, this should be your first choice when shopping for the best light bulb security camera.
Best for monitoring		LaView 4 MP Bulb Security Camera		SEE IT	With 4 megapixels, solid detection and motion-tracking, Starlight color night vision, and Alexa support, it has the clarity of image and connectivity that you require even up to 30 feet.
Best value		RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera		SEE IT	While it’s not 2K, the 1080p resolution should be enough for most applications, and the color night vision and two-way audio come in handy.

You value the safety and security of your home and/or business, so it never hurts to take precautions—and light bulb security cameras can help. These ingenious devices are the size and shape of a traditional light bulb and can be easily installed anywhere you have a light socket. They’re compact, discreet, and—best of all—extremely affordable. While they may look like a light fixture at first glance, they’re actually fully equipped cameras with infrared motion detection that can capture high-quality video. They also offer several other benefits, such as wide visibility, WiFi connectivity, two-way audio, and more. And, thanks to the clever design, they don’t require any additional mounting brackets or wires, making setup no muss and no fuss. If you’re in the market for peace of mind but don’t want to lay out a lot of cash, these best light bulb security cameras should definitely be on your radar.

• Best overall: Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera
• Best value: RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera
• Best budget: GuFamily Light Bulb Security Camera
• Best outdoor: Symynelec Light Bulb Security Camera Outdoor
• Best for monitoring: LaView 4 MP Bulb Security Camera

How we chose the best light bulb security cameras

How do you go about selecting the best of the best when it comes to light bulb security cameras? The most important element that we considered was security. How well does the product fulfill its obligation of protecting you, the resident or businessperson? After ascertaining that, we looked at a variety of additional factors to choose the best light bulb security cameras. These included WiFi connectivity, range of visibility, use-case, and more. Next, we compared the many on the market by looking at both consumer responses and reviews from our industry peers. Lastly, we cross-referenced these points to elements such as price and quality, arriving at our final list.

The best light bulb security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

The PopSci writers and editors have experience covering wireless security cameras and other home security accessories. We’ve used that experience to narrow down the options. Now all you have to do is pick the one that suits your needs, screw it into a light socket that you already have, and pair it to an app to let you help protect your property in seconds.

Best overall: Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 2K
• WiFi: 2.4GHz
• Storage: TF card and cloud (subscription required)

Pros

• Color night vision
• Two-way audio
• Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant

Cons

• No 5GHz support
• Not waterproof

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better, all-around deal for the best light bulb security camera than this offering from Galayou. This company knows security cameras, with a variety of well-reviewed products in its catalog.

We highly recommend the 360 Light Bulb Security Camera for a number of reasons. First, it has a stellar picture, with 2K Ultra resolution. This kind of clarity means you can easily make out faces and license plate numbers. This also extends to when it’s dark, with color night vision on board for clear viewing when the sun goes down. Security functions include motion tracking–detection plus following—as well as a siren warning and 360 viewing thanks to the 355-degree pan and 65-degree tilt range.

You control the Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera with a smartphone app. It also supports connectivity to Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. The included two-way audio means you can even use it as an intercom.

Lack of 5GHz WiFi connectivity may be a deal-breaker for some, and it’s not waterproof, meaning you’ll need to be careful when setting it up for outdoor use. However, with its wealth of functions and excellent affordability, this should be your first choice when shopping for the best light bulb security camera.

Best value: RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 1080p
• WiFi: 2.4GHz/5GHz
• Storage: Cloud (subscription required)

Pros

• Color night vision
• Includes two camera units
• 18 months free cloud storage

Cons

• No card storage

If value for money is a driving factor in your choice for the best light bulb security camera, look no further than this two-pack from RakeBlue. For the same price as some single-camera products, you can get two cameras and expand the range of your security.

In terms of features, these cameras have motion detection and tracking with 350-degree pan and 90-degree tilt, effectively removing blind spots. While it’s not 2K, the 1080p resolution should be enough for most applications, and the color night vision can come in handy. The two-way audio allows you to speak with people remotely. As with most light bulb security cameras, you interface with the camera via a smartphone app.

While you’re restricted to cloud storage (there’s no card support), RakeBlue does offer a year and a half of free cloud subscription. You’ll have to pay after that, so factor that into your total cost.

Best budget: GuFamily Light Bulb Security Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 2K
• WiFi: 2.4GHz/5GHz
• Storage: TF card and cloud (subscription required)

Pros

• Support of up to 16 simultaneous app users
• IR-cut filter for better night vision
• Includes AC adapter base

Cons

• Not waterproof

Sometimes, the cheapest option is the best option. If that’s the situation you find yourself in, GuFamily’s Light Bulb Security Camera offers plenty of functionality at an extremely affordable price.

With 2K resolution and 360-degree coverage, you’ll be able to see clearly and comprehensively. There’s also IR-cut for clear night vision, although vertical panning stops a little short at 52 degrees. When you’re unable to check the camera feed via the smartphone app, it’s good to know there are motion detection and app alerts. Additionally, GuFamily’s camera utilizes a human filtering function to minimize false alarms. WiFi connectivity is also good with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz options on hand. Additional bonuses include up to 16 simultaneous app users and an AC adapter base for indoor use.

Best outdoor: Symynelec Light Bulb Security Camera Outdoor

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 2K
• WiFi: 2.4GHz
• Storage: TF card

Pros

• Waterproof
• View up to 9 cameras and 20 users
• Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant

Cons

• Pricier than some other cameras

While most other cameras on this list advertise indoor and outdoor use, they are not waterproof, meaning you’ll need to use them in a covered area. Not Symynelec’s Light Bulb Security Camera Outdoor. Thanks to its waterproofing, it’s rated for outdoor use in a variety of weathers.

Other than waterproofing, it features a number of standard and attractive options. It records images at 2K, making it easy to recognize small details like faces, numbers, and letters. The smartphone app is fairly comprehensive as well, supporting up to nine cameras with access for 20 people, making it a good solution for large yards and businesses. There’s even Alexa and Google support.

While it may be pricier than some other cameras, the waterproofing will ensure that the camera won’t stop working outdoors when you need it. If you have a lot of land to cover—farms and other agriculture-related businesses, take note—this is the camera for you.

Best for monitoring: LaView 4 MP Bulb Security Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Picture resolution: 4 MP
• WiFi: 2.4GHz
• Storage: MicroSD card and cloud (subscription required)

Pros

• High resolution for a light bulb camera
• AI to filter our false alerts
• Voice control via Alexa

Cons

• No 5GHz support

Light bulb security cameras are meant to provide security monitoring at affordable prices. Because they’re easy on the wallet, you don’t expect them to have high resolution like a wired camera. However, if you prefer something with a clearer picture, LaView’s 4 MP Bulb Security Camera is the way to go.

With four megapixels, it has the clarity of image that you require even up to 30 feet. Along with this, you get solid detection and motion-tracking at up to 17 feet, plus an AI algorithm that filters out false reports. The range is 355 degrees and not a full 360, although there is Starlight color night vision for peace of mind even when it’s dark. It also plays well with Alexa for hands-free voice operation.

This 2.4GHz camera is our choice for when monitoring is your top priority.

Things to consider when choosing light bulb security cameras

Compared to some other home security devices, light bulb cameras aren’t too complicated. They all mount the same way—in a standard E27-size socket—meaning there isn’t too much to worry about when choosing the best light bulb security cameras. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

Where you plan to use the camera is important. Most can be used indoors or outdoors, but not all are waterproof. If your chosen location is outside but not in a covered location, you’ll want to go with waterproofing. You’ll also need to decide how clear you want the picture. Most are either 1080 or 2K. Regarding WiFi, most support 2.4GHz, but only some are also compatible with 5GHz. Keep that in mind if that’s important to you.

The remaining options will largely depend on the area that you want to monitor. Range of viewing and number of supported cameras are two things to consider. Lastly, if Alexa compatibility is a deal-breaker, ensure it offers that.

FAQs

Final thoughts on buying the best light bulb security cameras

• Best overall: Galayou 360 Light Bulb Security Camera
• Best value: RakeBlue Light Bulb Camera
• Best budget: GuFamily Light Bulb Security Camera
• Best outdoor: Symynelec Light Bulb Security Camera Outdoor
• Best for monitoring: LaView 4 MP Bulb Security Camera

Light bulb security cameras are an elegant solution to a casual security problem. You want to keep an eye on an area of your home or office but don’t relish spending a lot of money on the camera itself or installation. By keeping a few variables in mind—indoor or out, supported WiFi frequency band, and picture resolution—you can find the best light bulb security camera to meet your needs. Extras, such as Alexa compatibility and number of people allowed for simultaneous viewing, are the icing on the cake.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best light bulb security cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Even serious photographers can appreciate just how fun Instax instant film cameras make photography. Right now, Amazon has one of the most stylish Instax cameras on sale for more than 30 percent off. These deals always go really fast because the TikTok crowd loves an instant photograph. So, if you want one at this price, don’t sleep.

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 – Instant Film Camera $89 (was $129)

SEE IT

This unique-looking camera shoots Instax Square film, which embraces a square 1:1 aspect ratio that’s close to what the original square-ish Polaroids from the past used. This camera offers a simple point-and-shoot process that emphasizes flash and mimics the truly old-school style from decades ago. But the lens is sharp and the photos are surprisingly detailed, so it’s a hit at any party to which you bring it (and potentially too detailed for anyone who wakes up the next day having overindulged).

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera $59 (was $76)

SEE IT

If you want an even cheaper overall Instax experience, this is the way to go. This camera offers the same point-and-shoot experience, but it spits out Instax Mini prints, which are smaller and cheaper than their square counterparts.

More Fujifilm Instax Black Friday deals

• Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera $69 (was $79)
• Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 Smartphone Printer $89 (was $99)
• FUJIFILM Instax Square SQ1 Instant Camera $107 (was $119)

The post Save up to 31% on Fujifilm Instax instant film cameras during Amazon’s Black Friday sale appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Sony RX100 VII		SEE IT	While quite expensive for a point-and-shoot, this camera offers a lot of quality and high-end features in a tiny package, so we think it’s worth the price.
Best for travel		Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III		SEE IT	The one-inch sensor is larger than in a typical compact camera, translating into better low-light shooting, even when not using the built-in flash, and built-in autofocus pixels help track objects for sharp shots even when your subject is moving.
Best instant camera		Instax Mini 11		SEE IT	There’s just something special about a camera spitting out an image, and the wait for it to appear seemingly magically to kids of all ages.

Point-and-shoot cameras may be less common these days, in part thanks to smartphones, but there are still some worthy reasons to invest in these pocketable cameras. For starters, even though smartphone cameras have become quite impressive, the sensors in compact cameras are still larger. And the lenses typically have more to offer as well. Plus, sometimes it’s nice to keep the phone tucked away but still be able to take photos. The best point-and-shoot cameras offer great image quality, easy-to-use controls, and compact designs, making them ideal for a wide range of people and situations.

• Best overall: Sony RX100 VII
• Best for travel: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
• Best waterproof: Olympus Tough TG-6
• Best film camera: Ilford Sprite 35-II Reusable 35mm Film Camera
• Best instant camera: Instax Mini 11
• Best for street photography: Ricoh GR IIIx
• Best for content creators: Sony ZV-1
• Best budget: Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80

How we chose the best point-and-shoot cameras

The writers and editors at Popular Science have decades of combined experience writing about and reviewing cameras because they’re also the writers and editors of Popular Photography. These picks come from a mixture of personal experience, spec comparisons, user reviews, and editorial reviews.

The best point-and-shoot cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

When picking our favorite point-and-shoot cameras, we emphasized models that perform in a variety of different situations while keeping their sizes small. While some of these models climb up over $1,000, we tried to keep the price relatively low for most selections because these aren’t the most advanced models.

Best overall: Sony RX100 VII

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/2.8-4.5 9-72mm (35mm equivalent: 24-200mm)
• Weight: 10.65 ounces
• Dimensions: 4 x 2.29 x 1.69 inches

Pros

• Exceptional autofocus
• Versatile zoom range
• Large sensor
• 4K video

Cons

• Pricey for a point-and-shoot

The Sony RX100 VII is an awesome little camera. Despite the tiny body, it’s packed with a large, one-inch sensor, resulting in excellent image quality for the category. It also has the best autofocus of any point-and-shoot camera, meaning you’ll get more images in focus even when working with moving subjects.

This compact camera offers a 24-200mm equivalent lens, which is a versatile zoom range. And it is capable of 4K video, making this a well-rounded camera suitable for just about everyone. The only downside is the price. It is quite expensive for a point-and-shoot. But it offers a lot of quality and high-end features in a tiny package, so we think it’s worth the price.

Best for travel: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: 20.2MP 1″ Stacked CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/1.8-2.8 8.8-36.8mm (35mm equivalent: 24-100mm)
• Weight: 1 pound
• Dimensions: 4.13 x 2.4 x 1.63 inches

Pros

• Large sensor
• Versatile lens
• Manual control options
• Solid flash

Cons

• A little pricey

The one-inch sensor is larger than what you’ll find in a typical compact camera. This translates into better low-light shooting, even when not using the built-in flash. And the sensor has built-in autofocus pixels that help track objects for sharp shots even when your subject is moving. 

The 4.2x optical zoom lets shooters capture more distant objects without sacrificing image quality, and the 3-inch tilting LCD screen allows for shots from creative angles. Finally, raw photo capture provides extra flexibility for travel photographers who want to perfect images with photo editing software once they return from their trip. It’s a great camera for beginners and more experienced shooters alike.

Best waterproof: Olympus Tough TG-6

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: 12MP BSI CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/2-4.9 4.5-18mm (35mm equivalent: 25 to 100mm)
• Weight: 8.92 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.45 x 2.6 x 1.28 inches

Pros

• Waterproof
• Extremely tough
• Versatile lens
• Underwater shooting modes
• Compatible with tons of accessories

Cons

• Small sensor

This point-and-shoot camera can go pretty much anywhere. It’s waterproof down to 50 feet without a separate case. It’s totally dust-proof, so it won’t suffer if you take it to the beach or deep in the desert. Plus, it’s crush-proof up to 220 pounds, so you can sit on it by accident and still go shooting later in the day. Most compacts can’t stand up to that kind of abuse. 

Toughness isn’t worth much if the camera isn’t very good. This compact offers a relatively small sensor, but it has a versatile 4x zoom lens that will cover most common scenarios on your adventures. And if you fall in love with the camera, Olympus offers a ton of different accessories like action camera mounts and underwater lights to go with it. (Looking for something cheaper but still waterproof? We’ve got you.)

Best film camera: Ilford Sprite 35-II Reusable 35mm Film Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Sensor: N/A
• Lens: f/9 31mm
• Weight: 4 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.7 x 2.6 x 1.7 inches

Pros

• Comes in eight fun color combinations
• Very affordable
• Fixed settings make it easy to use
• Features a built-in flash

Cons

• Fixed settings may be limiting
• Plastic lens results in some softness

If you want to get your feet wet with film, the Ilford Sprite 35-II is a fantastic and fun choice. It’s similar to disposable camera in that it has a plastic lens with a fixed aperture and shutter speed. But it’s reloadable, thus producing less waste. And it simply looks cooler than a disposable camera as well.

The Sprite 35-II features a 31mm lens with a fixed f/9 aperture to ensure that your scene is in focus. It also has a fixed 1/120s shutter speed. There is a built-in flash for low-light situations, perfect for shooting indoors. You won’t get precisely sharp and perfect results from this camera, but we think that’s half the fun. It’s a great outlet compared to highly technical cameras and fun to bring along on outings with friends and family. And since it has no settings at all, it’s a true point-and-shoot that is extremely simple to use, even with it being a film camera.

Best instant camera: Instax Mini 11

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Specs

• Sensor: N/A
• Lens: f/12.7 60mm
• Weight: 10.34 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.24 x 4.77 x 2.65 inches

Pros

• Affordable
• Produces fun, tiny instant prints
• Easy to use
• Includes a selfie mirror on the lens

Cons

• Results aren’t the sharpest

There’s just something special about a camera spitting out an image, and the wait for it to appear seemingly magically. The best instant cameras are easy to use and result in attractive prints, which is true of the Instax Mini 11. The results aren’t pristine like you may be used to with your phone or digital camera, but we think that’s part of the charm.

The Instax Mini 11 features a fixed 60mm lens with an f/12.7 aperture that focuses from 11.8 inches to infinity. Or, you can turn the lens to Selfie Mode for a close focusing range of 11.8 to 19.7 inches. And there is a built-in flash, which is ideal for indoor shooting. It is a little slick to hold but comes with a lanyard to prevent drips.

I recently let my nieces and nephews—all under 12—use the Instax Mini 11, and seeing how excited they were was a blast. They all wanted to keep taking photos despite the limited quantity of film I had and ran around showing the rest of the family what they captured. And despite some of them being quite young (and impatient to take a photo), they all managed to take a clear and relatively sharp photo. 

Best for street photography: Ricoh GR IIIx

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Specs

• Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/2.8 26.1mm (35mm equivalent: 40mm)
• Weight: 9.2 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.4 inches

Pros

• Large sensor provides excellent image quality
• Compact and pocket-friendly
• 40mm lens is sharp and versatile

Cons

• No zoom
• Battery life isn’t great

Ricoh’s GR IIIx is a fantastic pick for street photography, largely thanks to its compact design. It is pocketable, so you can easily keep it on you when out and about. And it won’t draw much attention when you take it out to snap a photo. It also has slick all-black styling and an easy-to-hold design, even when shooting with one hand.

This discreet look is furthered by the lack of a zoom lens. It uses a fixed 40mm focal length (35mm equivalent), so you won’t lose the compact size when taking photos. 40mm is also an ideal focal length for street photography, as it is wide enough to get some context in the scene but not so wide that you end up with loads of extra space around your subject. If you do want something wider, the GR III is essentially the same, except it features a wider 28mm equivalent lens.

The GR IIIx image quality is excellent, partly thanks to the relatively large sensor. Images are sharp all the way to the edges, even when shooting wide open at f/2.8. And it produces vibrant, attractive colors. Interested in learning more? Check out our full review of the GR IIIx on Popular Photography.

Best for content creators: Sony ZV-1

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Specs

• Sensor: 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor
• Lens: f/1.8-2.8 9.4-5.7mm (35mm equivalent: 24-70mm)
• Weight: 10.4 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.15 x 2.36 x 1.71 inches

Pros

• Excellent lens
• Large sensor
• Very compact for its specs
• Above-average autofocus features

Cons

• Can feel a little cramped with big hands

Sony’s ZV-1 is a camera truly designed for vloggers and, as a result, is packed with features to make recording yourself easier. The auto exposure settings keep your face bright and clear. It even centers your face and quickly adjusts background blur with the push of a Background Defocus button. And the little camera gets Sony’s impressive autofocus abilities, so if you are showcasing other people or products, the camera will quickly find focus for you.

The forward-directional onboard mic and detachable windscreen will help you get great sound, leaving you fussing with levels in post less. There’s also a handy flip screen so you can preview the frame and capture the perfect shots and angles, making it one of the best point-and-shoot cameras for vlogging.

Best budget: Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80

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Specs 

• Sensor: 18.1MP 1/2.3″ MOS sensor
• Lens: f/2.8-5.9 3.6 to 215mm (35mm equivalent: 20-1200mm)
• Weight: 1.35 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.7 x 4.7 inches

Pros

• Massive zoom range
• Responsive autofocus
• 4K30p video recording
• Easy to hold

Cons

• Not as compact as other options

Panasonic’s Lumix DC-FZ80 is an affordable bridge camera, offering a DSLR-like body with easy-to-use controls. Because of the deep hand grip, it’s an easy camera to hold than the other point-and-shoots mentioned on our list. It isn’t as compact as a result, so it is a tradeoff, but for many, the classic feel is preferred. 

The built-in lens provides a whopping 60x zoom, making it suitable for just about any situation you find yourself wanting to photograph. And it’s autofocus is quite responsive, so you’ll be more likely to get sharp photos as well. And it’s capable of 4K video, making it a good tool for getting started with video as well. And best of all? It’s cheaper than most alternatives.

Things to consider when shopping for the best point-and-shoot cameras

Point-and-shoot cameras are small and compact cameras that can create sharp, vibrant images. This makes them the best camera for beginners, a good option for travelers, and even a worthy choice for some professional uses. Here are some features to consider when choosing the right one for you.

Are you a true beginner?

A point-and-shoot camera is designed to make the process of photography as simple as possible. They typically feature fully automatic exposure and focus so that you can, as the name implies, point the camera and snap a photo with nothing more than a press of a button. If you are a true beginner and want the easiest-to-use camera, you’ll want to look for models with simple menu systems and fully automatic controls. 

That said, some point-and-shoots offer more settings than others. If you are slightly beyond beginner status or want a camera to grow into, check to see what settings the camera allows you to change. You may want to adjust things like ISO, shutter speed, and aperture down the line, as opposed to relying on auto exposure modes.

Will you travel with your camera?

One of the main purposes of a compact camera is that the camera is, well, compact. With typical dimensions of roughly 2.5 x 3.5 x 1.5 inches, point-and-shoots are specifically designed to easily fit into pockets, purses, fanny packs, and other small compartments. And unlike hefty DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, point-and-shoot cameras weigh way less than a single pound. And if you’re worried about safety, the discreet size of compact cameras makes them less of a target for theft.

While all point-and-shoot cameras are pretty compact, there are still size differences across available cameras. Be sure to pay attention to the dimensions and weight of the cameras you are considering if that is something important to you.

Do you need a tough camera for an active lifestyle?

If you live for the outdoors—hiking steep mountain trails or backpacking through desert Canyons—you need a point-and-shoot camera that can handle adventure. Rugged and waterproof cameras are built to endure and capture the extreme environments you love exploring. Taking electronics to the beach is usually a big no-no, as even a single grain of sand can cause damage. Yet rugged models can resist sand, allowing you to take all the sunset shots you want.

For us less risky folk, these tough cameras can survive your average accidental drops, spills, and kicks. Some of them may be overkill for general use, however. If you don’t intend to take your camera on rugged adventures, you may be able to save some money by getting a camera without extensive protective qualities. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best point-and-shoot cameras

• Best overall: Sony RX100 VII
• Best for travel: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
• Best waterproof: Olympus Tough TG-6
• Best film camera: Ilford Sprite 35-II Reusable 35mm Film Camera
• Best instant camera: Instax Mini 11
• Best for street photography: Ricoh GR IIIx
• Best for content creators: Sony ZV-1
• Best budget: Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80

No matter the setting, creative vision, skill level, or age of a photographer, there are high-quality options that meet every need. The ultimate advantage of a point-and-shoot is its size and portability, making it the perfect camera for travel and adventure, as well as documenting day-to-day life.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best point-and-shoot cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		GoPro Hero 12 Black		SEE IT	The Hero 12 offers class-leading stabilization with exceptional video quality and durability.
Best for vlogging		DJI Osmo Action 4		SEE IT	The Osmo Action 4 offers excellent low-light performance and dual touchscreens for easy use.
Best for 360-degree video		Insta360 X3		SEE IT	The Insta360 X3 provides immersive 360-degree footage of your adventures.

Action cameras are a high-speed ticket to capturing the most immersive and engaging footage possible. They bring viewers as close to your experiences as they can be without actually being there. These video cameras excel in environments where stability and durability are key to attaining the highest caliber of footage, so they are popular amongst surfers, bikers, climbers, and other athletes. Plus, vloggers, video production teams, and hobbyists of all kinds can benefit from the compact and easy-to-handle design. From travel photography to underwater photography, the best action cameras provide a totally unparalleled video production experience to users of every interest and passion.

• Best overall: GoPro Hero 12 Black
• Best for vlogging: DJI Osmo Action 4
• Best for 360-degree video: Insta360 X3
• Best small: GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
• Best for beginners: Insta360 GO 3
• Best budget: AKASO Brave 7 LE

How we chose the best action cameras

Some writers and editors at Popular Science are also writers and editors at Popular Photography and have decades of experience with just about every camera brand and genre out there, including action cameras. As an adventure-lover and active individual, I have found myself in my fair share of situations ideal for action cameras. We chose the cameras included here through a mix of hands-on experience, user and editorial reviews, and brand knowledge. 

When selecting the best action cameras, we focused on a variety of features and specifications. They should foremost be compact and offer easy mounting solutions, making them easy to use without obstructing the action. Action cameras should also be durable and able to withstand epic adventures, including water trips. Lastly, we looked at video and photo quality, stabilization, and other camera-specific features. 

The best action cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether climbing, mountain biking, surfing, or simply wanting to document your travels, these action cameras will help you capture your best (or sometimes worst) moments. 

Best overall: GoPro Hero 12 Black

SEE IT

Specs

• Max video resolution: 5.3K at 60 fps
• Max framerate: 240 fps at 2.7K
• Photo resolution: 27 megapixels
• Waterproofing: 33 feet
• Dimensions: 2.8 x 2 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 5.4 ounces

Pros

• Improved photo performance
• Longer run times with the Enduro battery
• Award-winning stabilization
• Vertical video support

Cons

• Not much of an upgrade over the Hero 11
• Low-light performance is still mediocre

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is among the most well-known models of action cameras thanks to its durable and full-featured reputation. This latest model features the same sensor as the Hero 11, which is the largest sensor in a GoPro yet. The large sensor makes it possible to crop video to vertical orientation without losing out on most of the scene so that you can share your epic adventures on social media. And it allows you to change digital lenses for different perspectives. 

The camera specs of the Hero 12 remain largely the same as the Hero 11. It’s capable of stunning 5.3K video recording at up to 60 fps, though now you can record HDR video at this highest quality. Or, you can get up to 240 fps at 2.7k if you want dramatic slow-motion. The photo quality remains at 27 megapixels, and you’ll still have access to time-lapse and night modes, including star trails and light painting.

What is new is the Bluetooth audio connectivity options. Now you can connect a wireless mic for better audio quality. Or you can connect wireless headphones to monitor audio levels and help with voice commands in noisy settings. The Hero 12 also offers improved battery life, which was a pain point in past versions. Combined with the Enduro battery, you can get twice the battery life of the Hero 11. That means you can record continuous 5.3K 60p video for up to 70 minutes. And a standard tripod thread on the underside of the camera opens up mounting possibilities even more.

GoPro improved its already impressive stabilization in the Hero 12 with HyperSmooth 6.0. Even videos of the most rugged activities will be smooth. The new AutoBoost option will automatically reduce cropping, keeping your framing as you saw it while shooting. It’s waterproof to 33 feet without a case, and GoPro built it with improved cold weather performance, so you can use it for capturing your winter sports. The Hero 11 is a well-rounded, impressive action camera ready for anything you throw at it. 

Best for vlogging: DJI Osmo Action 4

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Specs

• Max video resolution: 4K at 120 fps
• Max framerate: 240 fps at 1080p
• Photo resolution: 10 megapixels
• Waterproofing: 59 feet
• Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 5.1 ounces

Pros

• Image quality has been improved
• Waterproof down to 52 feet
• Front and rear touchscreen
• High-capacity battery for long recording sessions

Cons

• Video quality tops out at 4K
• Limited photo quality

DJI built plenty of upgrades into the fourth iteration of its action camera, and it is ready for seriously epic adventures. It’s waterproof down to 59 feet without special housing and features a color temperature sensor to automatically adjust the color of your video even if you are deep below the surface while scuba diving. Should you want to go even deeper, with a waterproof case, the camera can go to 210 feet. 

For activities on land, the camera can function as cold as -4 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll be able to document even your freezing-cold ski trips. It utilizes a unique magnetic quick-release plate that is convenient and easy to use. And you can mount the camera vertically, meaning no cropping is required in order to create social-media-ready video. For vloggers, the live stream support at multiple resolutions is a huge benefit. 

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is capable of image-stabilized 4K video up to 120 fps. DJI claims that there are no recording limits other than the promised 2.6-hour battery life when recording 4K 60p video, so long, single takes are possible. It offers the equivalent of an 11mm full-frame lens, so you can catch all of the action. The RockSteady stabilization does a great job of smoothing out video. And the HorizonSteady mode keeps your shots level and adjusts for any horizontal rotation. Unfortunately, photo resolution is limited to 10 megapixels, but if your focus is vlogging, that likely won’t matter as much anyway.

Best for 360-degree video: Insta360 X3

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Specs

• Max video resolution: 5.7K 360-degree, 4K single-lens
• Max framerate: 60 fps at 4K
• Photo resolution: 72-megapixel 360-degree, 18-megapixel single-lens
• Waterproofing: 33 feet
• Dimensions: 4.5 x 1.8 x 1.3 inches
• Weight: 6.3 ounces

Pros

• Impressive stabilization
• 360-degree video is highly immersive
• Lots of editing options
• Excellent photo and video quality

Cons

• App is a little confusing to use

If you want truly immersive videos of your action adventures, you can’t beat the Insta360 X3. This camera can record 360-degree video at up to 5.7K and 30 fps. Then, you can use either the Insta360 mobile or desktop apps to edit your video and reframe your shots how you want to showcase the best parts of each moment or show off the full 360-degree view at once. 

This action camera is highly versatile, thanks to the ability to use a single lens along with the dual lenses used for recording 360-degree video. You can either record selfie content with the rear lens or show off what’s in front of you with the front-facing lens. And it features a handful of shooting modes, such as up to 8K 360-degree timelapse and 4K slow-motion. The 2.29-inch touchscreen makes it easy to adjust settings and see what you are recording. 

The X3 is a durable camera and is waterproof down to 33 feet without a separate housing. It features a 6-axis gyroscope and uses Insta360’s FlowState stabilization for smooth video, even with activities like mountain biking. And the Horizon Lock mode keeps the shot level even as you move and rotate. 

Best small: GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini

SEE IT

Specs

• Max video resolution: 5.3K at 60 fps
• Max framerate: 240 fps at 2.7K
• Photo resolution: 24.7 megapixels
• Waterproofing: 33 feet
• Dimensions: 2.1 x 2 x 1.5 inches
• Weight: 4.7 ounces

Pros

• Tiny form factor is less intrusive 
• Award-winning stabilization
• Excellent video quality
• Two mounting points

Cons

• No display for framing
• No dedicated photo mode

For those who are extra concerned about wind resistance and drag, the GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini is the way to go. This camera is 13 percent smaller than the Hero 11 Black, making it more suitable for mounting on a motorcycle helmet, surfboard, or airplane. It also features mounting feet on the bottom and back of the camera, opening up more options for how you mount it. 

Despite the smaller size, the Hero 11 Mini gets many of the same features and specs as its big brother. It uses the same larger sensor, allowing for vertical videos, and is still capable of 5.3K 60p video with class-leading stabilization. Unfortunately, there is no photo mode on the Mini version. Instead, you’ll have to rely on grabbing 24-megapixel stills from videos. 

Another difference between the Mini and regular-sized Hero 11 is the lack of a screen on the Mini. That means you’ll need to rely on the Quik app for camera setup and framing help, but it’s one less thing to break on the camera, which is nice. It also features a built-in battery, so you won’t be able to swap batteries out when one dies. But GoPro promises 73 minutes of battery life when recording 5.3K 30p, which is plenty for most situations. 

Best for beginners: Insta360 GO 3

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Specs

• Max video resolution: 2.7K at 30 fps
• Max framerate: 120 fps at 1080p
• Photo resolution: 6.6 megapixels
• Waterproofing: 16 feet
• Dimensions: ​​2.1 x 1 x 0.9 inches
• Weight: 1.3 ounces

Pros

• Stabilized video
• Unique magnetic mounting options
• Versatile modular design with the Action Pod
• Tiny size is very convenient

Cons

• Photos are only INSP or DNG
• Built-in memory is limiting

If the GoPro Hero 11 Mini isn’t small enough for you, the Insta360 GO 3 is the smallest form factor that action cameras come in. It weighs just 1.3 ounces, which is light enough to put on your hat and barely notice. The tiny size makes it feasible to put in locations that you otherwise couldn’t. This modular camera utilizes a unique magnetic mounting system that is fast and simple to use. And it comes with a few different mountain devices right in the box to get you started, including a magnet pendant and Easy Clip for wearing the camera on your person. 

The GO 3 tops out at 2.7K 30p video, which is the main disadvantage of this camera. But if you just want to capture memories or share your action adventures on social media, 2.7K is more than enough. And there are no recording limits at that resolution, so you can record long takes. It also allows for 120fps when backing off the resolution to 1080p, offering up slow-motion footage. And you’ll have access to Insta360’s impressive stabilization for smooth video.

This tiny action camera is waterproof to 16 feet on its own. It comes with the new Action Pod, which, although it adds bulk, extends the battery life from 45 minutes to 170 minutes. It also adds a 2.2-inch flip touchscreen, which is very convenient and adds versatility to the camera. And it’s all very easy to use with simple controls and AI editing tools to take most of the work out of your hands. 

Best budget: AKASO Brave 7 LE

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Specs

• Max video resolution: 4K at 30 fps
• Max framerate: 120 fps at 720p
• Photo resolution: 20 megapixels
• Waterproofing: IPX7, 131 feet with included case
• Dimensions: ‎2.44 x 1.61 x 1.26 inches
• Weight: 4.64 ounces

Pros

• Comes with waterproof housing
• Front and rear-facing screen 
• Stabilization is fairly effective
• Affordable

Cons

• Photo and video quality are lacking
• Image stabilization results in heavy crop

Most action cameras are quite expensive and come with extensive lists of features. Not everyone needs the latest and greatest camera, though. If you just want a durable, basic action camera to document your travels, the AKASO Brave 7 LE is a great choice. This isn’t the latest Akaso model (that would be the Brave 8), but the balance of features and price make it worth the purchase. The camera itself is IPX7 rated, but it comes with a case that makes it waterproof to 131 feet. The case also makes it more rugged and durable, allowing you to worry less about dings and falls. 

The Brave 7 LE is capable of 4K 30p video or 720p at 120 fps for slow motion. It offers 6-axis electronic stabilization, which is pretty good considering the price of the camera. It does result in a significant crop in your footage, though. For still photos, it can take up to 20-megapixel images. 

This budget action cam features a front and rear screen, which makes it easier to frame your shots no matter which way you point the camera.  It comes with two batteries, a remote, waterproof housing, and multifunction mounting kits, so you have everything you need to get recording right away. And it supports a WiFi connection, making transferring your photos and videos easier. 

Things to consider when looking for the best action cameras

The best action camera for your needs will depend on the nature of the filming environment and your ultimate use of the footage. Considering the size, waterproofing, video quality, and budget is essential whether you’re traveling, vlogging, or just starting out on your action camera journey.

Stabilization

One of the most important aspects of any action camera is how effective its image stabilization is. Action sports typically result in jarring movements, making footage unwatchable if it isn’t stabilized effectively. That said, if you’re primarily using an action camera for casual use on your travels, you may be able to get away with less stabilization than others. And you can make some adjustments in editing if you would like. But, if you are a mountain biker, trail runner, or recording any type of activity with lots of movement, you will want to look for a camera with the best possible stabilization. 

Mounting options

An action camera won’t do you much good if you can’t mount it in a way that enables you to actually record your activity without holding it. For example, you may want a way to mount the camera to a helmet or the end of a surfboard, which are two very different mounts. So, before purchasing a camera, be sure that the company makes a mount specifically for the activity you want to record.

Waterproofing and build-quality

Action cameras should be durable since they are meant to be used for, well, action. Most are ruggedly built and able to withstand lots of abuse. That said, depending on what type of sports or activities you plan on using the camera for, you may want to invest in more protection for the lens or camera as a whole. If so, be sure to check what accessories are available prior to purchasing. 

For those who want to take their camera underwater, knowing the waterproofing is key. Most cameras these days are waterproof to fairly deep without any additional case. For example, the GoPro can be submerged down to 33 feet. But if you want to use the camera for scuba diving, you’ll need to invest in a case to take it deeper than that. We always recommend purchasing waterproof housing directly from the company that made the camera to ensure proper fit, as you don’t want to risk the case flooding with water.

Photo and video quality 

What photo and video quality you need from your action camera depends on how you intend to use the footage. If you are just wanting the camera to document your travels and adventures for the sake of memories or maybe to share on social media, you don’t necessarily need 4K video quality. But, if you want to create YouTube videos of your content, or maybe even have grander plans than that, then you will want to go with the highest quality possible. 

Likewise, if you primarily want to record videos, you don’t necessarily need to pay attention to photo specs. But, if you want more flexibility, be sure to check what the camera can produce in terms of still photos as well.

Size

While all action cameras are compact, some are smaller than others. If you partake in sports or activities where drag and wind resistance is critical, such as surfing, motorcycle or automotive sports, or flying an airplane, the smaller the camera, the better. Smaller cameras also allow for more unique mounting opportunities, as they can be placed in locations that larger cameras cannot. Of course, there are usually sacrifices with smaller cameras, including lower video and photo quality and shorter battery life. It’s simply a matter of deciding what is most important to you.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best action cameras

• Best overall: GoPro Hero 12 Black
• Best for vlogging: DJI Osmo Action 4
• Best for 360-degree video: Insta360 X3
• Best small: GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
• Best for beginners: Insta360 GO 3
• Best budget: AKASO Brave 7 LE

The main traits found in all the best action cameras on the market are high resolution, high-speed video capture, and compact durability. Whether you’re looking for a camera for beginners, a waterproof camera, a vlogging camera, or some combination of all three, consider the main activities and the environment that you plan to film to help you make your final choice.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best action cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Wired security cameras is a somewhat vague, catch-all term that covers a number of types of security cameras. Often, they’re referred to as PoE security cameras, which stands for “power over Ethernet” and means that the cameras are connected by Ethernet lines for both power and for enabling the captured video footage to be downloaded. However, these cameras are also part of a system: In this case, it is an NVR, or “network video recorder,” system since the video is stored locally on a server in your house. You may also come across an older type of security camera system, called a DVR, or “digital video recorder system, which relies on coaxial cables instead of Ethernet lines. Many of these cameras are also referred to as IP cameras, which stands for “Internet Protocol,” which means they can send data over the internet, although many of these cameras simply send their video over a Local-Area Network (or LAN) instead of online. Regardless of going IP, POE, or DVR, the best wired security cameras are now significantly easier for consumers to install than they have been in the past. 

• Best overall: Lorex 4K 4TB Wired NVR System with Nocturnal 4 Smart IP Bullet Cameras 
• Best 360-degree POE bundle: Reolink 4K PTZ PoE RLC-823A Security Indoor/Outdoor Camera (with 5x optical zoom) camera and E1 Outdoor PoE (with 3x optical zoom)
• Best with dome-type POE camera: Annke H800 8MP PoE Security Camera System
• Best smart: Swann’s 8-Channel/4-Camera Home Security Camera System
• Best budget: EZVIZ C3N

How we chose the best wired security cameras 

I’ve written about many types of different cameras, including security cameras, for a number of publications over the years, including PCMag.com, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, Popular Photography, Popular Science, Tom’s Guide, and Gearbrain. I brought my expertise in this area to help discover the best wired security cameras. I also looked at critical reviews, user recommendations, and did a lot of research to narrow down our list to find the best models.

To find the best ones, I carefully considered a number of factors, including specific features such as video resolution, video frame rates, night vision capability, and audio, as well as more expansive qualities, like ease of use, versatility, and smart-home compatibility.

The best wired security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Historically, wired security camera systems require you to hire a professional to install the systems. And even today, you might consider hiring a professional, since the security cameras need to be connected via Ethernet lines, which can be a bit challenging to install. You’ll find a variety of wired security cameras on this list, which should also accommodate a wide range of budgets and needs, from inexpensive models that cost as little as $40 to more feature-packed models and bundles that can cost $1,400 or more. One of our wired security camera picks should give you a steady eye on your driveway, backyard, or any room in your home and can help complement and strengthen a home security system.

Best overall: Lorex 4K with 4TB Wired NVR System with Nocturnal 4 Smart IP Bullet Cameras

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 4K resolution at 30 fps
• Field of view: 110.4 degrees to 45 degrees (optical zoom-lens field-of-view range)
• Power: PoE
• Night vision: Yes
• Size: 10.8 x 3.7 x 3.7 inches (camera)

Pros

• A rugged four-camera system designed to withstand all weather conditions
• Each camera includes an optical zoom lens
• Excellent in low light
• Color night vision
• Comes with a very large 4TB hard drive for local storage 

Cons

• Expensive
• Some consumers may need professionals to install

Although this bundle is expensive, it’s worth the price: For starters, it features four 8-megapixel rugged-and-waterproof cameras that can capture high-quality 4K resolution in low-light conditions. It also comes with advanced color night-vision capabilities to further enhance low-light video footage. Each camera comes with a 4x optical zoom lens and a very durable camera exterior (IP67 rated), which ensures protection against harsh weather conditions. The Lorex system also includes advanced people-counting analytics and heat mapping capabilities. This system also includes a large 4TB security-grade hard drive, which is designed for advanced processing and 24/7 recording capabilities.

Best 360-degree POE bundle: Reolink 4K PTZ PoE RLC-823A Security Indoor/Outdoor Camera (with 5x optical zoom) camera and E1 Outdoor PoE (with 3x optical zoom)

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 4K resolution video at 25 fps (both models)
• Field of view ( E1 Outdoor): 94 to 50 degrees (horizontal) and 53 to 30 degrees (vertical)
• Field of view (RLC-823): 105 to 31 degrees (horizontal) and 55 to 17 degrees (vertical)
• Power: PoE
• Night vision: Yes (both models)
• Size: 4.6 x 4.6 x 3.3 inches (E1 Outdoor); 7.91 x 8.58 x 8.58 inches (RLC-823A)

Pros

• Very good price for two 360-degree cameras
• Each camera includes an optical zoom lens
• Comes with smart detection and auto-tracking features
• Both models include color night vision

Cons

• Both cameras have a frame rate of just 25 frames per second for 4K video

This pair of 360-degree cameras offers a lot of value for the money. Not only do both cameras come with the ability to pan and tilt nearly 355 degrees horizontally, but each camera has an optical zoom lens that allows you to more clearly focus on the scene. Each also has 4K video resolution, to capture video footage with clearer details, which is especially important if you’re using it as an outdoor security camera. Each also comes with color night vision, two-way audio, and more.

Best with dome-type POE camera: Annke H800 8MP PoE Security Camera System

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Specs

• Video resolution: 4K resolution at 15 fps 
• Field of view: 123 degrees
• Power: PoE
• Night vision: Yes
• Size: 6.1 x 6.0 x 5.6 inches

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Both models include color night vision
• Comes with large 2TB hard drive for local storage

Cons

• Frame rate is only 15 frames per second
• Lens is fixed, with no optical zoom

This wired security camera system bundle from Annke offers a lot of value for the money: It gives you four PoE dome cameras, which are designed to provide extra protection from the weather and the elements as well as intruders trying to tamper with the camera units. It captures video in 4K but uses H.265+ compression, which allows you to record longer videos and consume less bandwidth without losing 4K quality. The included NVR comes with a 2TB hard drive for storage but can be expanded to 10TBs. However, the camera lenses lack optical zooms, and the 4K video footage is captured at only 15 frames per second, which is lower than other systems. 

Best smart: Swann’s 8-Channel/4-Camera Home Security Camera System

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Specs

• Video resolution: 4K resolution (frame rate not listed) 
• Field of view: 93 degrees
• Power: PoE
• Night vision: Yes
• Size: 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches

Pros

• Easy to set up
• Both models include color night vision
• Offers smart detection and other smart features
• Comes with large 2TB hard drive for local storage

Cons

• Lens is fixed, with no optical zoom
• Frame rate not listed and may be less than 30 fps

There’s a lot to like about this four-camera 4K wired security camera system from Swann. The camera units capture video at 4K resolution video, which includes color night vision capability for better quality video in very low-light settings. The system is also easy to use and easy to use. What makes it smart is that it comes with face recognition, human and vehicle detection (via heat detection), as well as alerts and notifications to your phone via the Swamm Security app. The system comes with a pre-installed 2TB hard drive. However, the lens on the camera is fixed and lacks optical zoom, which makes it a bit less versatile than other systems. Also, the frame rate for the 4K video is not listed, which means it may be less than 30 frames per second.

Best budget: EZVIZ C3N

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Specs

• Video resolution: 1080p resolution at 30 fps
• Field of view: 104 degrees
• Power: wired
• Night vision: Yes
• Size: 2.83 x 2.83 x 5.91 inches

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Easy to set up
• Offers the option of either Wi-Fi or wired connection
• Works with Amazon Alexa
• Can store video clips on cloud or microSD memory card

Cons

• Not exclusively a wired security camera system
• System isn’t as robust as true wired PoE security systems

This very inexpensive security camera offers the option of using either an Ethernet connection or a WiFi connection. So, if you’ve never had a security camera system, you can get a feel for how both a wired and wireless security camera functions. It shoots at 1080p resolution and gives you the option of storing video clips in the cloud, starting at $3.99 a month

What to consider when buying the best wired security cameras

Most security cameras, as well as security camera systems, can be broken down into two main groups: Wireless security cameras, which as the name implies, generally connect to your home wireless network in order to store the video footage it records, as well as enabling other functions; and wired security cameras, which are connected via cables for power, storing video footage, and accessing the Internet.  

Although wired security camera systems offer some of the same features available with wireless systems, they’re a little more complicated to install, since you’ll need to run Ethernet cables to provide both power and connectivity. However, there are other features and capabilities that they do share with WiFi models:

Installation: DIY or professional

Before you buy into a wired security camera system, be sure to do some research to see if you can do it yourself, or if you’ll need to spend extra money to have a professional install the system.

Video resolution

An important factor when buying a security camera since the higher the resolution, the more detailed the video footage can be. So, as far as video resolution goes, you’ll want to make sure that you buy a system that at least can capture 1080p-resolution video. Of course, you’ll find many recent models that include features that capture 2K or 4K resolution. Be sure to also check that the cameras can catch the video at a frame rate (frames per second) that you need: 30 frames per second will provide you with smoother, less jittery video than lower frame rates (25 fps or 15 fps).

Angle of view

Another important technical specification is the angle of view, which indicates how wide or how narrow the lens is on the security camera. The higher the number, the wider the view. The lower the number, the greater the telephoto effect.  

Video recording options

A network video recorder will include a number of important options that you’ll want to check. See if you need an NVR that uses cloud storage to store video clips, or if you only need your video stored on-premise or using a local drive. There are other features to check as well, including the ability to set alerts, remote access, the ability to search video clips using artificial intelligence tools, and more.

Specific features you find important

Most wired security camera systems include some of the latest features that might be important to you, such as night vision, the ability to capture 360-degree coverage of a scene, mobile app access, and more. However, you’ll need to research and compare the features with other comparable models or systems to see if they fit your specific needs.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best wired security cameras

• Best overall: Lorex 4K 4TB Wired NVR System with Nocturnal 4 Smart IP Bullet Cameras
• Best 360-degree POE bundle: Reolink 4K PTZ PoE RLC-823A Security Indoor/Outdoor Camera (with 5x optical zoom) camera and E1 Outdoor PoE (with 3x optical zoom)
• Best with dome-type POE camera: Annke H800 8MP PoE Security Camera System
• Best smart: Swann’s 8-Channel/4-Camera Home Security Camera System
• Best budget: EZVIZ C3N

In theory, criminals can hack into almost any type of wireless or wired security camera system. However, wired home security cameras are more difficult to compromise since they don’t need to be connected to the internet. Wired systems can simply use a local-area network to power the cameras and download video. But, there are many wired systems that offer WiFi features, too. Make sure you choose a wired security camera with plenty of built-in safety and privacy features. You want peace of mind for your home; you want to feel safe installing security cameras, too.   

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best wired security cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for pros		Nikon Z8		SEE IT	The Z8 offers impressive specs across the board for pros.
Best APS-C		Fujifilm X-T5		SEE IT	It’s simply a fun and fantastic camera to shoot with.
Best low-light		Nikon Z6 II		SEE IT	NIkon’s Z6 II excels when the light gets dim.

If you have been paying attention to the camera market over the last decade, you’ve noticed mirrorless cameras overtaking DSLRs as the most dominant category in interchangeable-lens cameras. While Canon, Nikon, and Pentax still sell plenty of DSLRs, more than a half-dozen companies—including Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Sigma, and Sony—are fully committed to their mirrorless systems. The market has expanded so much that there are now mirrorless cameras for every type of shooter, from the video-focused to the photography purist. No matter what you are looking for, the best mirrorless camera will help you get the shot.

• Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Best for pros: Nikon Z8
• Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1 
• Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1
• Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony A7C
• Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5
• Best budget: Canon EOS R100

How we chose the best mirrorless cameras

We have been writing about and reviewing cameras for decades and have personally used most of the major cameras released in recent years. This list is a result of extensive hands-on testing, market research, user feedback, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons. While the mirrorless market has grown substantially in recent years, there are still only a handful of companies making the cameras that you really want to buy. We looked at the entire mirrorless camera landscape and chose the models that best fit the needs of different kinds of shooters. 

Best mirrorless cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

The options for mirrorless cameras have expanded to include something for just about every situation you may find yourself in. Whether you want a compact, budget-friendly vlogging camera, a professional-level, high-resolution beast, or something in between, there is a mirrorless camera that will work for you.

Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 45 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.62 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.43 x 3.84 x 3.46 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor
• Articulated screen
• Up to 8 stops of stabilization with some lenses
• Advanced video features

Cons

• Expensive

Although it’s a little pricey, the full-frame Canon EOS R5 delivers excellent stabilization. You’ll get up to 8 stops in combination with some Canon IS lenses. Other impressive parameters include speedy (and accurate) autofocus and tracking thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system. It’s dust and water-resistant to withstand the rigors of outdoor photography and comes equipped with dual memory card slots, including a CFexpress. This is essentially the mirrorless version of Canon’s stalwart 5D DSLR line. As a result, it can handle just about anything a pro photographer could need it to do in a relatively compact body.

If you don’t need the 45-megapixel resolution and super-high-res video chops found in the R5, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II offers much of the same in terms of focusing and stabilization with a more reasonable 24.2-megapixel resolution and matching SD card memory slots. You can read more about the R6 Mark II in our full review.

Best for pros: Nikon Z8

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Specs

• Resolution: 45.7 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Nikon Z
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B/XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 4.7 x 3.3 inches

Pros 

• Fantastic image quality
• Offers lots of on-body controls
• Fast burst shooting
• High-quality video

Cons

• No mechanical shutter
• A bit difficult to get right now

The Nikon Z8 is essentially the Z9 in a more compact and affordable package. It’s $1,300 less than the flagship Z9 yet features the same sensor, processor, and autofocus capabilities. And it weighs more than half a pound less than the Z9. Of course, that’s in part because the Z8 lacks a built-in vertical grip, but the more compact form factor makes it an ideal choice for videographers or those who prioritize weight in their setup. 

The Z8 is a true hybrid camera with impressive specs and features across the board. It’s capable of 8K 60p 12-bit raw recording internally in the N-RAW format. You can record at 8K 30p for roughly two hours continuously. And it offers 4K 120p for slow-motion footage. 

The 45.7-megapixel sensor results in excellent image quality for photos. And if you like a still from a video clip, you can grab 33-megapixel stills from 8K footage or 11MP stills from 4K footage. The Z8’s autofocus is also superb, with accurate and fast subject detection and tracking. 

Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1

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Specs

• Resolution: 50.1 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.07 x 3.81 x 2.74 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor for superb detail
• Advanced and impressive autofocus
• Fast burst shooting
• Plenty of tactile controls

Cons

• Expensive

The Sony a1 is a camera built for those who want serious performance from their camera. The specs are impressive across the board. It offers a 50.1-megapixel sensor with stacked back-illuminated design and integrated memory. That sensor allows for 15 stops of dynamic range and the ability to capture tons of detail from a scene. It also handles noise extremely well, so you can get away with higher ISOs.

One area that the a1 really shines is burst shooting. It’s capable of up to 30 full-sized raw frames per second with the electronic shutter. That’s faster than just about everything available at that quality. The autofocus is equally impressive. It’s extremely fast and accurate, and it can focus down to -4 EV, so you can shoot in dark situations and still use autofocus. 

The a1’s electronic sensor is able to read out at a whopping 1/260th second, which allows you to sync a flas at up to 1/200th second. And, with the mechanical shutter, you can sync flash up to 1/400th second without relying on a high-speed sync. It’s an ideal camera setup for studio photographers and sports photographers alike. And with the 8K 30p and 4K 120p video, it makes for an excellent tool for videographers or hybrid shooters as well.

If the burst shooting isn’t as important to you as resolution, the Sony a7R V offers an impressive 61 megapixels, resulting in truly stunning image quality even for the most serious pixel peepers. The a1 produces massive files, though, so be sure to have hard drives ready.

Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II

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Specs

• Resolution: 24.5 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Nikon Z
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: CFexpress Type B / XQD and SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.3 x 4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

• Superb image quality overall, but especially in low-light
• Intuitive controls and menu systems
• Compact
• Exemplary metering system

Cons

• 24-megapixels may feel a little low for some shooters

The well-rounded, full-frame Nikon Z6 II mirrorless camera is equipped with great still and video features. Its low light capabilities range from minimal image noise at high ISOs and, critically, excellent low light AF—down to -4.5EV, one-stop lower than its Z6 predecessor. That means it can focus in the moonlight—even when it’s less than a full moon. As a bonus, the Nikon Z6 II is equipped with a special low-light autofocus mode that takes its capabilities an additional two stops, providing a good balance between minimal levels of image noise and effective autofocus in very low light.

The Sony A7S is another solid option, especially if you shoot a lot of video or you don’t need a ton of megapixels. The 12-megapixel resolution seems paltry to many still photographers, but that low resolution comes with extremely clean high-ISO images.

Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1

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Specs

• Resolution: 12.9 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Digital, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.8 x 2.1 inches

Pros 

• Compact and lightweight
• Excellent stabilization
• Good in-camera audio
• Superb autofocus abilities

Cons

• Low resolution isn’t great for photography
• Single SD card slot

The Sony ZV-E1 is a full-frame mirrorless camera tailored to serious vloggers and content creators. Unlike its smaller sibling—the ZV-1 II—the ZV-E1 is an interchangeable lens camera, allowing you to choose from the vast selection of Sony and third-party lenses available for E-mount. Despite the full-frame sensor, the camera is very compact and lightweight, weighing only slightly over a pound, making it easier to hold even if you are filming yourself. 

The ZV-E1 is capable of 4K 120p video or full HD up to 240p. The Cinematic Vlog setting makes it easy to create cinematic footage with a single touch, putting controls such as aspect ratio,  frame rate, look mode, mood, and AF modes on one screen. The 5-axis optical image stabilization is highly effective. And when you need even more stabilization, the dynamic active mode stabilization utilizes AI recognition and tracking to crop footage automatically to keep focus on the subject. 

As we’ve come to expect from Sony cameras, the ZV-E1’s autofocus abilities are very advanced. It offers Multiple Face Recognition to track multiple people in a single frame, and the Product Showcase Setting makes it easy to switch focus between a product and subject. The main downside to this camera is the 12.9-megapixel sensor. While the 12.9-megapixel sensor could be limiting in terms of still photos for some, for professional vloggers, this camera is the best choice at the moment.

If you are a vlogger who doesn’t want to fuss with lenses or spend so much on a camera, the ZV-1 II is the next best thing. It features a built-in 18-50mm equivalent lens with 4K 30p video and plenty of content creator-specific tools.

Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony a7C

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Specs

• Resolution: 24.2 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Lens mount: Sony E
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Dimensions: 4.9 x 2.8 x 2.4 inches

Pros 

• Compact form factor fits in camera rigs
• Flip-around screen makes for easy vlogging
• Advanced autofocus tracking with nearly 700 AF points
• 4K and 1080p footage at high bitrates

Cons

• No viewfinder might be a downside for hybrid shooters
• No 4K at 60 fps

Size and weight matter when you’re holding a camera pointed at yourself all day long, and Sony’s A7C is one of the most compact full-frame mirrorless cameras on the market. It has everything a vlogger needs, including 4K capture, a screen that flips forward so you can monitor your shot in real time, and a microphone jack for accessories. It also offers advanced autofocus that keeps you or your subject in focus without much fuss on your end. 

The small, rectangular form factor makes attaching gimbals and other filmmaking equipment easy. That comes in handy when you’re trying to maximize your production value and have viewers slamming those like and subscribe buttons on YouTube. There isn’t an electronic viewfinder, which makes it a bit harder to use in bright sunlight, but video is rarely shot while looking through a viewfinder anyway. 

Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5

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Specs

• Resolution: 40.2 megapixels
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Lens mount: Fujifilm X
• Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
• Memory card slots: Dual slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
• Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.5 inches

Pros 

• High-resolution sensor results in lots of details
• Capable of up to 20 fps
• 6.2K maximum video resolution
• Excellent feel to the controls

Cons

• Viewfinder feels small compared to full-frame models

The Fujifilm X-T5 is a truly fantastic camera. In fact, one of our editors calls it one of the most enjoyable cameras he’s ever used. It offers lots of tactile controls, including an ISO dial and physical switch for shutter drive modes. These keep you from digging into menus nearly as often as other cameras. The body feels like a small SLR, including a physical dial for shutter speed, which makes the camera feel like an analog one. 

Fujifilm built the camera around a high-resolution 40.2-megapixel sensor that does a great job of grabbing lots of detail from a scene. It comes with Fujifilm’s excellent film simulation modes, which could save you time when it comes to throwing it up on a monitor and editing. And the autofocus is responsive and accurate.

While the camera is primarily for still shooters, there are plenty of impressive features for video creators. For example, it can shoot up to 6.2K 30p video or oversampled 4K footage. And it offers plenty of video capture formats, including F-LOG2 and Apple ProRes Raw.

Best budget:  Canon EOS R100

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Specs

• Resolution: 24.1 megapixels
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Image stabilization: None
• Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
• Weight: 12.6 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7 inches

Pros

• Extremely compact and lightweight
• Affordable
• Compatible with all RF lenses
• 4K 24p video

Cons

• Fixed rear display
• No touchscreen functionality

The Canon EOS R100 is a relatively new release that happens to be the most affordable camera in Canon’s R line yet. It’s also the smallest, weighing just 12.6 ounces with the battery and memory card. Despite the small size and affordable price, it has a lot to offer. For starters, the 24.1-megapixel sensor will provide image quality on par with the M50 Mark II. But you get the benefit of RF lenses, as well as EF lenses with an adapter. That opens up a lot of possibilities for glass.

The R100 is capable of cropped 4K 24p video or full HD at 60p. It utilizes Dual Pixel AF with 3,975 autofocus points and supports subject detection and Eye Detection AF. And Eye Detection works even when the subject is further away for full body shots. Unfortunately, the rear screen is fixed, meaning it can’t be flipped around for selfies or vlogging, and it isn’t a touchscreen. But, for the price, the R100 is hard to beat for those wanting a casual yet capable camera. 

What to consider when shopping for the best mirrorless camera

Choosing the best mirrorless camera for you depends on your needs. Are you looking for a mirrorless camera for beginners or something more specialized? Buying something below or at your level may hinder your development as a photographer or videographer when you outgrow its features. However, buying a pricy pro body may clutter up your shooting experience with features you’ll never even use. We’ll take a look at some of the parameters that will help you make the best choice.

In-body image stabilization

Image stabilization, which is available in some cameras and lenses, goes by different acronyms and names across brands—VR (vibration reduction), OIS (optical image stabilization), and SteadyShot, to name a few. Image stabilization senses the movement of the camera while you’re taking the picture and makes adjustments—either in the camera or in the lens or both—in order to counteract that shake and prevent blurry photos. It can also help smooth out video when shooting handheld. 

Many mirrorless cameras offer IBIS (in-body image stabilization). One of the great things about IBIS is that, by default, every lens you use is image-stabilized, which is like an instant upgrade to your current non-IS lenses. As a bonus, IBIS and IS lenses can often work together to deliver even greater levels of stabilization.

Image stabilization is measured in steps or exposure stops. Put simply, each step or stop of IS decreases the shutter speed needed to maintain a blur-free image. Obviously, the more stops, the better when you’re shopping for a mirrorless camera with IBIS. It’s important to realize, however, that some of those numbers reflect a combination of in-body stabilization and lens stabilization to get the maximum effect.

Low-light performance

Photographers often encounter low-light situations where the choices are either to boost the ISO and risk image noise, miss the shot, or use a flash. The latter isn’t always the best option, especially if you want to capture the scene’s ambiance, or flash is prohibited. Keep in mind that most mirrorless cameras do not have built-in flash anyhow; rather, they have a hot shoe to attach an external flash.

Flash aside, there are three basic elements of low-light photography to consider. First, full-frame cameras are typically better at low-light photography since their larger sensor size gathers more light. You also need to consider how well the camera keeps image noise at bay while maintaining good detail and sharpness and whether the camera’s autofocus can function well in low light. The latter is measured as minus “x” EV.

Low-light performance will be key to getting the shots you want if you frequently shoot indoors—whether at parties or indoor sporting events. And even if you shoot outdoors, higher ISO settings can come in handy for capturing fast action like sports, which requires extremely short shutter speeds to freeze motion. Higher ISO does result in higher noise levels, but you can improve noise with a laptop and some time editing.

Video

While you can vlog or record video with pretty much any mirrorless camera, there are features that make vlogging easier and combine to deliver the best footage possible. Two key features in a mirrorless camera for video are an articulated LCD and a microphone jack. The former lets you flip the LCD out and away from the camera to view yourself as you’re filming. At the same time, an external microphone can be mounted on the camera’s hotshoe without blocking the LCD. In-body image stabilization is ideal since it steadies the shot regardless of what lens you use and can help steady video when handholding the camera.

In the end, vlogging doesn’t always require 4K resolution, but it’s always better to have the option if and when you need it.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best mirrorless cameras

• Best with in-body image stabilization (IBIS): Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Best for pros: Nikon Z8
• Best for pros runner-up: Sony a1 
• Best for low light photography: Nikon Z6 II
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-E1
• Best for vlogging runner-up: Sony A7C
• Best APS-C: Fujifilm X-T5
• Best budget: Canon EOS R100

Shopping for the best mirrorless camera is really a personal issue. It’s important to think about what kind of images or videos you want to capture and then find the features that make it possible—whether it’s low light, video for vlogging, or action shots. Don’t be fooled into thinking you need the latest and greatest to make the best decision. There are plenty of solid options at various price points, including budget models.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best mirrorless cameras of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

This 4K dual-camera drone is designed to cater to beginners, and it’s on sale for $79.97 until Nov. 16.

Drones have become so mainstream that practically anyone can buy themselves one, but what hobbyists need to understand is that not all quadcopters cater to beginners. Some have incredibly complex mechanisms that you might as well just train to become a pilot and obtain a flying license. But there are also entry-level options that accommodate beginner flyers. Case in point: this 4K dual-camera drone is designed for first-time pilots, and for a limited time, it’s on sale for $79.97. It makes for a great present for anyone who’s looking to take their adventures to the skies.

This beginner-friendly quadcopter makes drone photography and videography a cakewalk. Great for kids and novices alike, it has features that make flying effortless, including optical flow positioning that keeps the drone in a hovering state while fixated on an object, gesture control that follows movements for capturing photos and footage, and three-way obstacle avoidance that perceives the distance of obstacles and dodges them accordingly. This way, you won’t worry about the drone getting stuck elsewhere.

If taking stunning shots is your goal, this drone comes equipped with an HD 4K front camera that supports a remote 90-degree control angle and a bottom camera with a 120-degree wide angle. Its FPV transmission allows it to reach up to 328 feet, while its precise locking height enhances the drone’s stability to take beautiful content.

Conversely, if your goal is to simply navigate the skies, you’ll want to take advantage of the drone’s other intelligent functions, which include a 360-degree flip, gravity control, headless mode, fixed-point flight, and one key start and stop. It has built-in LED superlights as well, each of which changes according to the environment, making the drone easy to stop anywhere.

Formerly retailing for $119, you can grab this beginner-friendly 4K dual-camera drone on sale for just $79.97 until Nov. 16, 11:59 p.m. PST.

Prices subject to change.

The post Grab this beginner-friendly drone on sale for only $80 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Nanit Pro-Smart Baby Monitor		SEE IT	This high-definition video baby monitor features sleep tracking and night vision.
Best for vitals tracking		Owlet Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor		SEE IT	A wearable smart sock allows parents to keep track of their baby’s vitals.
Best stylish		Lollipop Baby Monitor		SEE IT	This baby monitor connects through an app and can detect crying, see in night vision, track sleep quality, and play lullabies and white noise.

People sometimes complain that modern parents are too nervous and overprotective and that parenting “back in our day” was a more relaxed and hands-off endeavor. But anyone with a newborn knows that the early days are a time of incredible joy … and intense neuroses. And if those supposedly “lax” parents of years past had access to the kind of technology we have now, we bet they’d be just as excited to use the best baby monitors.

In fact, in addition to being a practical and convenient way to check in on little ones, baby monitors give parents the freedom to take care of their other duties with peace of mind: They’re always just one cry, coo, or cough away from being by their baby’s side. Understanding your family’s living situation and personal preferences is key to picking the best baby monitor camera and baby items for you, so here are some things to take into consideration.

• Best overall: Nanit Pro – Smart Baby Monitor
• Best audio-only: Motorola Audio Baby Monitor
• Best stylish: Lollipop Baby Monitor
• Best for vitals tracking: Owlet Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor
• Best budget: VTech DM221-2 Audio Baby Monitor

How we chose the best baby monitors

Being responsible for an entire living being is no easy feat—which means baby monitors have to be up to the challenge. Our selections are based on personal testing (we’re parents ourselves), research, reviews, recommendations, and user impressions from babies and parents—you’d be surprised to know who is more opinionated.

The best baby monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

With Wi-Fi capabilities and even built-in cameras, the best baby monitors will give you peace of mind as your little one slumbers peacefully in their crib. Here are our picks.

Best overall: Nanit Pro – Smart Baby Monitor

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This overhead baby camera uses computer vision for accurate sleep, sound, and motion tracking, and sends alerts about your baby to your favorite device.

Specs

• Range: N/A
• Batteries: N/A
• HSA/FSA Eligible: Yes
• Video: Yes
• Phone-compatible: Yes

Pros

• 1080p camera
• Breathing band included
• Personalized sleep coaching

Cons

• Video history and data only free for one year

An award-winning, innovative baby monitor, the Nanit offers an impressive variety of video capabilities including 1080p HD bird’s-eye view, night vision, sleep tracking, sound and motion notifications, and temperature and humidity checks. You can even talk back to your baby, thanks to two-way audio. The Nanit Pro is compatible with iOS, Android, Kindle Fire, and Echo Show, which allow you to get sound, sleep, and motion alerts delivered to your devices. FSA/HSA approval gives you peace of mind when it comes to safety certification, and the included Breathing Ware gives you sensor-free motion monitoring for accuracy. Be aware that the Nanit includes a free one-year subscription to your video history and data, but after that, you’ll have to pay for access.

Best audio-only: Motorola Audio Baby Monitor

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This audio-only baby monitor doesn’t lack features, which include app connectivity, a built-in nightlight, and a high-sensitivity microphone.

Specs

• Range: 900 feet
• Batteries: Yes, rechargeable
• HSA/FSA Eligible: No
• Video: No
• Phone-compatible: Yes via app

Pros

• App compatible
• Download playable audio for baby
• Built-in nightlight

Cons

• Three-hour battery life

This audio baby monitor is a great option, as it’s powered by traditional radio connectivity up to 900 feet. Plus, it uses smart technology to connect to an app via Wi-Fi. A high-sensitivity microphone picks up even the slightest sound and can record and analyze noise to determine sleep quality. Two-way radio functionality allows parents to talk to and soothe a child through the monitor. You can also download songs and stories to play for your baby, as well as monitor room temperature and turn on a nightlight. Downloading the Hubble app on your device gives you access to sleep data and soundtracking.

Best stylish: Lollipop Baby Monitor with True Crying Detection

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This flexible baby monitor packs motion and sound sensing in its compact, whimsical design.

Specs

• Range: N/A
• Batteries: N/A
• HSA/FSA Eligible: No
• Video: Yes
• Phone-compatible: Yes

Pros

• Mounts anywhere
• App connectivity

Cons

• Sleep tracking and continuous recording only free for 30 days

This unique-looking baby monitor comes in vivid pastels and is made out of flexible non-toxic silicone. The camera is encased in a round white built-in speaker that gives the device the look of a cute cartoon eyeball. Loaded with smart capabilities, it connects through an Android/iOS app and can accurately detect crying, see in night vision, track sleep quality, and play lullabies and white noise. Although the monitor offers sleep tracking and continuous video recording, it’s only free for 30 days—you’ll need to buy a subscription to Lollipop Care to get that functionality year-round.

Best for vitals tracking: Owlet Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This smart sock tracks important vitals like oxygen levels and heart rate, along with sleep quality indicators for in-depth data on your baby.

Specs

• Range: 100 feet
• Batteries: N/A
• HSA/FSA Eligible: Yes
• Video: No
• Phone-compatible: Yes

Pros

• Vitals tracking
• Smartphone alerts
• Sock is sturdy and comfortable

Cons

• Expensive for a wearable children will eventually grow out of

Owlet’s smart baby monitor has advanced features which allow parents to track a baby’s vital signs and sleep quality indicators—including heart rate, oxygen levels, wakings, sleep state, movement, and more—with a wearable smart sock. Set up the base station within 100 feet of the baby’s crib and Bluetooth technology will transmit pulse rate and blood oxygen levels. The base station will glow depending on the levels reported, and parents will get alerts on their smartphones. The system can also measure room temperature and humidity levels. The company also offers the Dream Sock Plus, which tracks vitals for children up to five. And, the coordinating app includes sleep prompts and a digital sleep coach to help the wee one go to bed.

Best budget: VTech DM221-2 Audio Baby Monitor

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: You don’t need to shell out a lot of cash for a monitor that features customizable volume, two-way audio, and vibrating sound alerts.

Specs

• Range: 1,000 feet
• Batteries: 6 AAA batteries (Included)
• HSA/FSA Eligible: No
• Video: No
• Phone-compatible: No

Pros

• 16-hour battery life
• 5-level sound indicator
• Vibrating sound alerts

Cons

• Battery takes 11 hours to fully charge

This highly rated baby monitor has a range of up to 1,000 feet and provides parents with a vibrating sound alert and LED-light visual when it detects sound. Additional features include a talk-back intercom that allows parents to soothe their baby, as well as a night-light feature and customizable volume. You can also choose to hear sounds from the baby unit all the time, or only hear sounds that exceed a certain level. The parent monitor can adjust the microphone sensitivity of the baby unit, and a belt clip on the parent unit lets you take it anywhere in the house.

What to consider when buying the best baby monitors

Gone are the days when monitors were little more than CB radios delivering crackling noises that might be your child crying or might just be static interference. The best baby monitors are essential, and are much more sophisticated and allow for more technology integration, mobile device usage, stat monitoring, and much more.

Knowing your own needs is important—for example, if you have a small living space, an audio-only model may suffice—and will ensure you get a device that does what it intends and works with your parenting style. Here are some of the variables to keep in mind as you research.

Video vs. audio

Opting for a baby monitor with a high-quality video camera along with traditional audio allows for immediate peace of mind: You can literally see and hear your baby in real-time. The best baby monitors offer high-def video, a wide-screen camera for optimal viewing, night vision, and an alert system if the little one is moving too much. Some cameras offer pivoting to change views, while others are stationary.

A video baby monitor gives parents access and control so they can relax (or, you know, get laundry done). Higher-end models even utilize HD video to obtain data that can then be analyzed to offer sleep-tracking guidance. Apps can take sleep footage and replay it in a timelapse reel, allowing you to observe your baby’s sleeping patterns.

While audio-only devices might seem old-fashioned compared to their shiny new video competitors, they still get the job done. One major advantage of these types of baby products is that they’re generally cost-effective. Some audio-only options even combine older radio technology with newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as some neat bonus features, like a two-way radio, temperature monitoring, sleep analysis, and the ability to download soothing songs and stories to play for your child through the app

It’s important when buying any monitor, but particularly a radio-based one, to consider the frequency range: You need to be sure the signal reaches anywhere you plan to go, potentially even outside. The best baby monitors have rechargeable batteries with a good lifespan. When fully charged and within range, audio monitors can be very reliable, especially if you have spotty Wi-Fi in your home. Hybrid audio-only baby monitors combine older radio technology with the ability to connect via Wi-Fi and smartphones, which gives you more modes of use.

Design

If you don’t want your baby’s room to look like the surveillance hub at a casino, there are styles that combine form and function. Some baby monitors take the necessary camera feature and playfully turn the shape into a friendly robot; others try to minimize size and use rounded organic shapes in bright colors and soft silicone material.

While enjoying the look of the monitor is important, obviously nothing is more crucial than safety and functionality. The best baby monitors offer all the features you want and still look good.

Sleep stats

For the sleep-deprived tech-savvy parent, being able to study your baby’s patterns with the hope of improving them is a pretty cool feature. By gathering digital sound files, high-definition video, and temperature, humidity, and vitals info, apps can provide helpful guidance to get the baby (and you) to sleep. A smartphone app then relays detailed charts and information to help kiddos stay healthy and sleep soundly. Some monitors that provide sleep analysis do this through audio only, some through audio and video, and others include a wearable component to monitor the baby’s oxygen and breathing.

Vitals tracking

Your particular parenting needs will determine which features matter to you. For example, baby monitors that track vitals can measure a baby’s pulse rate and blood oxygen levels via wearables like a sock or blanket wrap, or other non-wearable gadgets. The data is then sent to the product’s base station, which keeps parents informed with real-time updates and alerts in case any abnormalities are detected.

No device will ever replace good parenting, so think of a vitals-tracking monitor as an extra protection measure, like wearing a high-tech belt with suspenders. Especially because technological errors can occur—like server crashes or the wearable getting placed in the wrong position—parents could potentially receive inaccurate results or false alerts. So they should only ever be used as an addition to—not a substitution for—good parenting.

Budget

There are a variety of baby monitors available with a budget in mind. In general, you can get simple video monitors that include one small camera and a transportable parent unit to see and hear your baby (including night vision) and monitor the temperature. However, most video monitors with higher ratings are over this price point. Most monitors in the audio-only category are under $50.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best baby monitors

• Best overall: Nanit Pro – Smart Baby Monitor
• Best audio-only: Motorola Audio Baby Monitor
• Best stylish: Lollipop Baby Monitor
• Best for vitals tracking: Owlet Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor
• Best budget: VTech DM221-2 Audio Baby Monitor

Technology has been rapidly changing the baby-monitor market. The best options provide you with a reliable and secure way to check in on your baby to be sure of their safety. With loads of choices, you can go big or small, high-tech or low—but whatever you decide, you’ve now got some of the best baby monitors currently on the market to choose from—so you and your little one can catch some much deserved Z’s.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best baby monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder		SEE IT	The Bird Buddy offers stylish design, quality images, and a fun app with real-time notifications.
Best for hummingbirds		BirdDock Hummingbird Feeder Camera		SEE IT	The nectar attachment of this feeder can be swapped out to hold seed as well.
Best budget		WYZE Cam v3		SEE IT	This budget option lets you see the birds without any extras.

Bird feeder cameras make documenting our feathered friends fun and easy, but they aren’t created equally. Some are best for bird-watching in your own backyard, while others are better suited to remote locations. More expensive models have features like solar panels, video options, and smart bird identification, while basic, budget models make feeder photography accessible for just about everyone. No matter what you are looking for, the best bird feeder cameras will allow you to capture quality images of the birds who call your area home. 

• Best overall: Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder
• Best trail camera: TECHNAXX Full HD Birdcam TX-165
• Best for bird boxes: Hawk Eye HD Nature Cam
• Best for hummingbirds: BirdDock Hummingbird Feeder Camera
• Best for bird identification: Netvue Birdfy Pro
• Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

How we chose the best bird feeder cameras

There are dozens of bird feeder cameras on the market. Though many of them have the same basic features, they don’t all offer the same level of important features like durability, battery life, and accuracy of species detection. 

To arrive at our top picks, we relied on our own assessment of each device, including hands-on experience with multiple models. Because bird feeder cameras must be durable, weatherproof, and offer long-lasting performance, we also leaned heavily on user experiences and favored well-reviewed products. 

Features like accurate bird identification, solar panel availability, and useful accessories also helped push some models into the limelight. Other options like real-time notification and color night vision were nice to have but not essentials. Still, they didn’t tend to figure into our final decision simply because of their somewhat limited value for bird photography. 

The best bird feeder cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Choosing a bird feeder camera can be tough. There are dozens of available models, and the prices can range from less than $50 all the way up to $400 or more. The key to finding the right bird feeder camera is not necessarily shopping by price but knowing which features are must-haves and which are not. Not everyone will benefit from AI, for example. You may even prefer to use your own knowledge to identify the birds in your photographs. Below are our favorite options, suitable for a range of situations and users. 

Best overall: Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder

SEE IT

Specs

• AI: Yes, identifies more than 1,000 bird species 
• App compatibility: Android and iOS
• Resolution: 5-megapixel photos, 720p video
• Battery: 4000 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery, optional solar panel

Pros

• Sharp images with a 120-degree field of view
• Weatherproof from -5°F to 120°F
• The smartphone app allows you to see feeders all over the world
• Compatible with an optional solar panel and lots of accessories
• Three mounting options

Cons

• No local storage, so it can’t be used without Wi-Fi
• Video resolution is lower than some competitors

The Bird Buddy bird feeder camera is relatively new, but it has much to offer, so it earns our top spot. The bird feeder is attractively designed, so it will look nice in your yard or on your deck with some solar lights, which is an important feature for many. It’s available in blue or vibrant yellow, so you can choose an option that fits your style best. I really enjoy the look of the blue Bird Buddy on the side of my porch, which is a big plus. 

The camera module is removable, which is important when it comes time to clean the feeder. It can take five-megapixel photos or offers 720p live-streamed video. The image quality won’t be that of your dedicated mirrorless or DSLR camera, but it is nicely detailed and properly exposed even in backlit situations. And being able to tune in to watch live as a bird chows down is pretty neat. 

The camera’s 120-degree field of view is wide enough to capture birds hanging out on the feeder’s side. You can also buy multiple accessories through Bird Buddy to extend the perch or feed different species. With the solar roof (the model we thoroughly tested and reviewed), you’ll never need to think about charging the camera. Without the solar roof, you’ll need to charge the camera every 5 to 15 days.

The Bird Buddy relies on AI to automatically recognize over 1,000 species of birds. The Bird Buddy app notifies you when you have new visitors to your feeder, which is always exciting. You can even browse other Bird Buddy devices all over the world to see species that you wouldn’t otherwise encounter. Plus, the images from your device contribute to migration information for conservation databases. You’ll be helping science progress while getting fun images of your feathered friends. 

Best trail camera: TECHNAXX Full HD Birdcam TX-165 

SEE IT

Specs

• AI: None
• App compatibility: N/A, no app available
• Resolution: 8-megapixel photos, full HD 1080p video
• Battery: 4 AA batteries give it a working time of up to 6 months

Pros

• Sturdy trail-cam style feeder
• 6-month battery life
• Removable water basin means it can be a feeder or a birdbath
• Captures slow-motion video

Cons

• No smartphone app or bird identification features
• Memory card storage is less convenient than Wi-Fi or Bluetooth

This hybrid bird feeder camera is as tough as any trail camera. However, unlike most trail cameras, it can focus as close as 2 to 6 inches and offers a 100-degree field of view. This means you’ll get much better images of visiting birds than you would with a typical trail cam. The TX-165 takes standard AA batteries but has a working time of up to 6 months. You can leave it in a secure, remote location for a long time without worrying about the battery going flat.

The TX-165 also has a few features you won’t find on other bird feeder cameras. You can fill it with birdseed or fill the removable basin with water and turn it into a birdbath camera. It also takes impressive eight-megapixel images and full HD 1080p video. It’s also capable of 25 frames per second for slow-motion videos. 

Best for bird boxes: Hawk Eye HD Nature Cam

SEE IT

Specs

• AI: None
• App compatibility: N/A, no app available
• Resolution: 700 tvl (television lines)
• Battery: None (includes a 75-foot power cable)

Pros

• Compact, so you can hide it almost anywhere
• Night vision lets you capture clear images in poor light 
• Durable and temperature-tolerant to between 35°F and 105°F

Cons

• Only shoots video 
• Not waterproof
• Needs to be plugged into a power supply

Birds do a lot more than just eat birdseed, so at some point, you might want to step up to a birdhouse camera. Because the Hawk Eye Nature Cam isn’t built into a feeder, it’s much more flexible than most bird cams. Its small size means you can put it anywhere—on treetops, fence posts, or even in animal burrows (though please exercise caution when putting it down a snake hole). Or it can be wired discreetly into a bird box for a 24/7 look at growing bird families, from egg to fledgling. 

The Hawk Eye Nature Cam is meant for live-streaming to your television set. The video resolution is clear and sharp, with 700 tvl (television lines) and 10 infrared diodes. This lets you view clear video even in the darkened environment of a typical bird box. Note, however, that you will need an RCA to USB adapter if you have a modern TV. 

The Hawk Eye does have a few drawbacks. It has no battery, so you’ll have to mess with a long extension cord to get it set up. It also isn’t waterproof. If you want to attach it to an unsheltered location, you’ll have to build waterproof housing or limit your use to dry weather. Finally, you can connect the camera to your PC and use additional software to grab photos and video segments from the live stream, but it’s not designed to capture high-resolution stills.

Best for hummingbirds: BirdDock Hummingbird Feeder Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• AI: Yes, identifies species and alerts you when birds approach 
• App compatibility: Android and iOS
• Resolution: 2-megapixel photos, full HD 1080p video
• Battery: 6400 mAh rechargeable batteries provide 20 to 30 days of operating time 

Pros

• AI can recognize around 5,000 different species, including hummingbirds
• Rechargeable batteries provide 20 to 30 days of use
• Hummingbird attachment is removable

Con:

• Still photos are much lower resolution than those shot by similar feeders 
• The app is clunky and difficult to use

The BirdDock is a flexible bird feeder camera that isn’t limited to just capturing photos of seed-eaters. It also offers a removable hummingbird attachment featuring five flower-shaped feeding ports with 0.16-inch holes to keep bees and other insects out.  When you want to switch to photographing songbirds, you can remove the hummingbird feeder and fill the device with seeds. 

Like other AI feeders, the BirdDock will identify species and alert you when one is approaching the feeder. It has night vision, too, which could help you identify other critters that visit your feeder overnight. This bird feeder camera features a 160-degree field of view and can be used with or without an SD memory card. It provides an impressive battery life of up to 30 days. You can also purchase a separate solar panel to keep the device charged in sunny weather.

The BirdDock has two primary drawbacks: It captures still photos at a relatively low resolution of only two megapixels (though it does also capture full HD 1080p video). It also doesn’t have an especially user-friendly app. Some users complain that the bird identification feature isn’t accurate and that the app frequently disconnects from the camera.

Best for bird identification: Netvue Birdfy Pro

SEE IT

Specs

• AI: Yes, identifies more than 6,000 different species 
• App compatibility: Android and iOS
• Resolution: Full HD 1080p video
• Battery: 5000 mAh rechargeable batteries 

Pros

• Can identify more than 6,000 different species 
• Long battery life (the manufacturer claims up to six months of use)
• Extra features like squirrel recognition and color night vision

Cons

• The bird identification service costs extra
• Storing photos on the cloud requires a subscription

The Netvue Birdfy rivals the Bird Buddy with features like ease of use, durability, and photo quality. It has an impressive array of extra features like color night vision. The AI can recognize squirrels, and the built-in microphone lets you yell at them when they’re caught robbing the feeder. You can also upgrade your feeder with add-ons like a solar panel, hummingbird feeder, and perch extension.

The Birdfy has the same features as most other feeders, including automatic capture/motion detection and real-time notification. It takes clear video at close range, provides a 135-degree field of view, and even offers 8x magnification if you want to study the fine details.

Birdfy has an impressive database of 6,000 species, though reviewers note that it isn’t always accurate. When it does misidentify a bird, you have the option to submit a report via the app. This is evidence that Netvue is constantly working to improve its software. 

The primary drawback of the Netvue bird feeder camera is you may have to pay for various subscriptions depending on what features you want access to. For example, if you want to take advantage of the bird identification feature, you must pay for a subscription. Likewise, a subscription is required if you want to store photos on the Netvue Cloud for longer than 30 days. 

Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

SEE IT

Specs

• AI: No species identification
• App compatibility: Android and iOS
• Resolution: 1080p full HD video
• Battery: No battery

Pros

• Affordable
• Weatherproof 
• Compact for easy mounting

Cons

• Minimum focus distance is around 12 inches
• No battery; needs to be plugged into a power supply

Bird feeder cameras with all the bells and whistles can be expensive. A $200 feeder might be outside your budget, or you may not need all the features that expensive bird feeder cameras offer. The WYZE Cam v3 is essentially an outdoor security camera. You won’t be able to fill it with birdseed or attach a hummingbird accessory. But you can mount this sturdy little camera next to any commercial bird feeder or install it close to a high-traffic part of your backyard. 

The WYZE Cam v3 offers all the basic features you need in a bird cam. It’s weatherproof with an IP65 rating. It takes photos when it senses motion, and it has an app so you can see what’s happening outside in real-time. 

The WYZE Cam does have a few drawbacks. One of these is the focus distance. While most dedicated bird cams can focus on subjects as close as a few inches, the WYZE Cam isn’t designed for closeups. You’ll have to mount it at least a foot away from your feeder, meaning you won’t see a lot of detail in your photos. 

The WYZE Cam is also wired. It comes with a weatherproof six-foot USB cable, so you’ll have to install it close to your home. On the plus side, once installed, you won’t have to worry about changing or recharging the battery or losing your video stream on a cloudy day.

Things to consider before buying a bird feeder camera

If you love bird watching but don’t want to sit waiting with your binoculars, a bird feeder camera will allow you to capture photos and videos of birds even when you aren’t around.

A bird feeder camera is meant for permanent outdoor use. This means it needs features you probably don’t consider when shopping for other photography gear. Here are some of the most important things you’ll want to think about when shopping for a bird feeder camera.

Durability

Bird feeder cameras can be subject to some serious abuse. The sun’s UV rays and hot temperatures can degrade plastic casings over time. These devices must also withstand storms and sprinklers, remaining waterproof from season to season. Of course, they should also be tough enough to handle the beaks and claws of visiting critters—not just the birds they’re intended for but other potential visitors like squirrels and mice.

Image quality

The image quality of bird feeder cameras is dependent on a few things. Resolution is the first thing most think of, and indeed, it is important with these devices. If you want clear, sharp images, look for bird feeder cameras with higher resolution. These compact cameras won’t offer numbers you may be used to in smartphones or mirrorless cameras, though. Five to eight megapixels for stills and 1080p for video tend to be the highest available at the moment.  However, if you aren’t concerned with high levels of detail, you could save some money and opt for a device with a less impressive resolution. 

The second factor of image quality is close focusing distance. The majority of shots taken by a bird feeder camera will be up-close. As a result, look for a device capable of getting clear photos at a very short distance. Even as close as a few inches is ideal.  Finally, birds don’t tend to sit still for long. Because of this, the camera should be able to freeze action, even in low light conditions like early morning or cloudy days. 

WiFi connectivity

WiFi isn’t necessarily a critical feature, but it’s something to consider if you’re going to keep your feeder close to your house. Most people don’t want to trek outside daily to download photos or swap out a memory card. A WiFi connection will let you see what your camera captured at any time of day in any weather. Treating it like a smart-home device will save you from having to venture into the cold, heat, or rain unless you need to change the battery or add birdseed.

Pay attention to the range of the device, too. Shy birds won’t approach your device if it is too close to your home. If it’s too far away, you won’t be able to view your photos without exiting your home.

Mounting options

Each bird feeder camera will have somewhat different requirements for how you install them. Some require a pole, some can be mounted to a fence post, and others can be hung. Depending on where you want the feeder and what tools you have available for installation, some of these options may be better than others for your particular needs.

Battery life

Some bird feeder cameras take basic replaceable AA batteries; others rely on solar panels to power internal rechargeable batteries. Either way, you’ll want to pick a camera that isn’t power-hungry. A good battery will ensure you aren’t constantly changing batteries or missing photos because your camera goes dark on a cloudy day. 

Choosing a camera with motion detection is a good place to start. These cameras only activate when there’s something to take a photo of, which helps the battery last longer.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best bird feeder cameras

• Best overall: Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder
• Best trail camera: TECHNAXX Full HD Birdcam TX-165
• Best for bird boxes: Hawk Eye HD Nature Cam
• Best for hummingbirds: BirdDock Hummingbird Feeder Camera
• Best for bird identification: Netvue Birdfy Pro
• Best budget: WYZE Cam v3

Once limited to nature photographers with long telephoto lenses and lots of patience, bird feeder cameras have made bird photography nearly effortless and available to almost anyone. That doesn’t necessarily mean any camera will do, though. Thinking about what you want to get out of your investment is an important first step in choosing a feeder. If you’re hoping to get up-close, detailed shots, pay attention to the example shots provided by the manufacturer and uploaded by users. Consider how important good battery life is to you, and ask yourself if you really need a camera that will identify already familiar local birds.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best bird feeder cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Bird watching seems like one of those rites of passage as you get older. You reach a certain age and boom—you suddenly like studying our avian amigos. I have, apparently, reached that age. But I don’t always have time to tromp through fields with binoculars to catch fleeting feathers. Luckily, bird watching these days is extremely easy thanks to the arrival of bird feeder cameras. These devices are built with compact, weather-resistant cameras that typically detect motion to snap photos and videos when a bird comes to feast. They provide close-up views of the snacking species that wouldn’t be possible any other way.

One of the more popular bird feeder cameras—Bird Buddy—was launched as a Kickstarter and has taken the world of bird feeder cameras by storm. It offers an attractive yet practical design and pairs with an easy- and fun-to-use app. The Bird Buddy camera allows you to capture high-quality photos and videos of birds that visit your feeder, and AI even identifies them for you. I’ve had one up for a few months to put it through its paces and have been impressed with the device.

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Overview

• The Bird Buddy is a modern-looking bird feeder with a removable camera that automatically snaps photos and videos of birds that come to snack. 
• The easy-to-use app notifies you when you have a visitor and automatically identifies over 1,000 species of birds.
• The feeder holds 3.5 cups of birdseed and comes with a scoop.
• It comes with a few different ways to mount the feeder. Additional accessories are available for purchase separately.
• A Bird Buddy Pro membership unlocks certain app features and higher video quality and costs $2.50 monthly for an annual membership or $2.99 for a monthly plan. 
• The base-level Bird Buddy costs $239, but we suggest upgrading to the version with a solar roof for unlimited battery life for $299.

Pros

• Attractive, modern design
• Very little assembly required
• Lots of accessories available
• App is easy and fun to use
• AI features automatically identify birds and other critters
• Livestream is available
• Records quality, highly-detailed photos and videos
• Holds plenty of birdseed
• Camera is removable for easy washing
• Optional solar roof does away with charging the battery
• Bird Buddy provides frequent updates

Cons

• Requires a WiFi connection
• Water pools in the bird feeder, resulting in moldy birdseed
• Some features are locked behind a subscription paywall

Verdict

The Bird Buddy is one of the best bird feeder cameras available thanks to its excellent app usability, advanced AI, and high-quality images and videos. The sleek design is easy to install, clean, and fill, and the removable camera is a nice addition. The reliance on WiFi won’t work for everyone, but smart-home devices are increasingly common, and it allows for immediate access to your camera’s feed.

Bird Buddy setup

Setting up the Bird Buddy involves two parts: Connecting to a WiFi router along with the app and physically installing the bird feeder. The Bird Buddy doesn’t offer any onboard storage, so you’ll need access to a WiFi connection to use the camera and AI features. It uses an 802.11 b/g/n connection at 2.4 GHz plus Bluetooth for connection to the app. You’ll want to install the Bird Buddy app and pair your camera to the app before installing the bird feeder in your yard. 

I had substantial issues pairing my Bird Buddy to my WiFi and connecting it to the app, and had to call customer support for assistance. Luckily, the customer support team was incredibly helpful and patient in working through the troubleshooting, and we eventually got it all set up. It is worth noting that I had an early model, so Bird Buddy has likely solved some of those issues to make the pairing process smoother.

Physical installation is simple, depending on how and where you place your bird feeder. You can hang it, mount it to a one-inch pole with the included bottom mount, or purchase a separate wall mount for attaching to fences or walls. The camera slots right into the designated slot, and it’s easy to plug it into the solar roof (if you opt for that). 

Bird Buddy design & build quality

The Bird Buddy bird feeder features a sleek, modern design with smooth curves. Though looks are subjective, I think it looks much more polished than other bird feeder cameras. It’s available in blue or vibrant yellow. Bird Buddy says it features a “bird-friendly design,” though it doesn’t specify what exactly that means. The perch features a raised bird footprint pattern, providing some grip for talons. 

The birdseed compartment—which holds 3.8 cups—is enclosed by clear plastic on both sides, allowing you and the birds to see the seed level inside. A back door at the top opens to fill the bird feeder up, though it requires careful maneuvering to get the seed inside and not spill it everywhere since it is a rather small opening. The entire back also comes off for easier cleaning. 

Bird feeders and bird feeder cameras are, naturally, outdoor items. As a result, they need to be durable, rugged, and built to withstand the elements. The Bird Buddy ticks those marks nicely. It is made of new and recycled BPA-free plastic and feels solid and sturdy. I have had it up for a handful of months, and after a quick cleaning, it looks brand new. That’s even despite the intense Florida sun constantly beating down on it.

Water issues

My main frustration with the design of the Bird Buddy is regarding keeping rain out. There are holes in the bottom that drain water in the event of rain, but they are extremely tiny. Of course, that keeps the small seeds from falling out. Butt hose same seeds can clog the holes, preventing thorough draining. Also, the protective roof helps keep some rain out but doesn’t extend beyond the feeder very much. If there is any wind blowing the rain, it will end up in the feeder. As a result, I had issues with water saturating the birdseed and mold forming. 

Granted, this may be a function of where I reside in Florida—a state where strong thunderstorms are a near-daily occurrence in the summer and humidity levels are intense. I had to change the birdseed every week because of the molding. Birds do not like moldy seeds, so I don’t get as many visitors. That’s especially true if I don’t stay on top of cleaning things out. It also means that I’m dumping out seed regularly and cleaning the feeder frequently. Neither of these is ideal and keeps birds away for longer. It may be less of an issue with different birdseed mixes or locations, but it has severely limited the number of birds I attract. 

Camera module details

The Bird Buddy’s camera is housed inside a plastic case. It is weather-resistant, though Bird Buddy doesn’t provide an IP rating. It does say that it can operate in temperatures between -5°F and 120°F. As a result, it will work in most locations throughout the year. The camera module measures 5.1 x 2 x 1.5 inches and fits securely in the bird feeder with the help of a magnet in the back.

The camera takes five-megapixel photos and 720p HD live-streamed video. It is capable of 1080p video clips, though you’ll need to pay for a Bird Buddy Pro membership ($2.50 per month for an annual membership or $2.99 per month for a monthly plan). The 120-degree field of view is wide enough to capture birds hanging out on the side of the feeder. There’s also a built-in microphone for recording bird songs as well, which is a fun addition.

Motion detection

Bird Buddy also built a laser motion detector into the camera. This senses movement on the perch and triggers the camera to take photos or videos when a visitor is present (much like a wireless security camera). I don’t have my bird feeder in a location where I can easily keep watch to test how well the motion detection works. But every time I heard a bird making noise, I received a “postcard” (Bird Buddy’s way of telling you a bird was at your feeder), so it seemed just sensitive enough.

You can switch to Power Saver Mode in the app settings if you want fewer notifications or conserve battery. Or turn on Frenzy Mode to see anything and everything, though you’ll have to pay for a Pro membership. 

Power

For power, the Bird Buddy camera utilizes a 4000 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Bird Buddy says it will last between five and 15 days. Of course, that depends on how many photos it takes, how much you stream live video, and the weather. When it needs a charge, it uses a USB-C cable. I was using the solar roof, which results in infinite battery life. If you want to save some money and don’t opt for the solar roof, the camera is fully removable. That means you won’t need to bring the entire bird feeder (along with any tiny creatures or germs) inside for charging.

Bird Buddy app

I’ve been very impressed with the Bird Buddy app during my testing. It is well-designed in design and usability, with many playful components. It is intuitive to use and easy to find what you need very quickly, even as you are getting used to it. It’s clean and minimal, without too many extra things going on.

The app uses AI to automatically identify over 1,000 species, which includes squirrels and rare birds. Unfortunately, I have only had Red-Winged Blackbirds at my feeder, so I haven’t been able to test how accurate the AI identification is beyond that single species. But it always got the Red-Winged Blackbird right, so there’s that. 

When a bird visits your feeder, the app notifies you with a “postcard.” These postcards are then saved to your gallery so you can pull them back up anytime. They can even show multiple photos or videos of the same bird if they stick around for a bit. Should there be photos in a set that aren’t worth saving, you can discard them to keep your gallery from getting too cluttered.

Your gallery is sorted by bird type. Tapping on each lets you open all photos and videos the camera has captured over time of that particular species. The page for each bird species will also provide information on that bird so that you can learn more. That includes personality type, what they eat, where they are typically found, how big they are, and what they sound like. For example, the Red-Winged Blackbird page tells me that they are brawlers, open lovebirds, and social butterflies who like to eat insects and seeds and are as big as a slice of pizza.

Community features

Beyond content from your feeder, you can see photos and videos from feeders worldwide in a few different ways. First, you can add some to your list of feeders and receive postcards from them like it is your own feeder. However, if you want to add more than one feeder for more than 72 hours, you’ll need a Pro membership.

If you don’t want to add a feeder, you can still scroll through photos and videos from the community. It’s like social media just for bird content. Birdbuddy TV is a video feed of publicly shared videos from Bird Buddy users. Or you can scroll through photos from the community, applauding people’s results. You can even help identify species by tapping the Wingbuddy link at the top of the Community page. 

Image & video quality

A bird feeder camera doesn’t do much good if the photos aren’t clear enough so you can actually see your avian visitors. The five-megapixel resolution may not seem very impressive, especially compared to smartphones and dedicated cameras. While you won’t be able to print these images to poster size by any means, the camera does offer plenty of quality for viewing on your phone. 

The images are clear and sharp, especially when the bird hangs out on the perch. The camera can’t focus much closer than that, though. My main visitor liked to sit right in the birdseed, so it was frequently out of focus, but even still, I could see good amounts of detail with vibrant colors. The auto exposure overall does great, even in extremely high-contrast lighting situations. There were times that the bird was blurry from moving during the exposure, but that wasn’t the norm. 

The Bird Buddy video quality is also really good. The footage is clear and well-exposed. If you want higher-quality video, you can upgrade to a Bird Buddy Pro membership, though I have not tested it, so I can’t comment on how much better that video looks. 

So, who should buy the Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder? 

Bird feeder cameras are becoming more and more popular, with new options seeming to pop up regularly. Spending $299 (for the solar roof version) may seem pricey for a bird feeder camera. But the Bird Buddy is priced similarly to other devices, including its closest competitor, the Netvue Birdfy Pro. So, what makes the Bird Buddy stand out? 

The Bird Buddy includes a durable yet attractive build, an integrated solar panel for infinite battery life, multiple mounting options, and an easy-to-clean design with a removable camera, which gives it the edge for most users. It’s also remarkably easy to install, with essentially no assembly beyond popping the camera into the feeder. Add to that the easy-to-use and fun app with minimal features behind a paywall, and it takes a clear lead. It’s a connected device that makes you feel a bit more connected with the natural world. If you are interested in keeping an eye on the bird species in your area, it’s hard to beat Bird Buddy. 

The post Bird Buddy Smart Bird Feeder review: A camera that’s not just for the birds appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Sony FX30		SEE IT	This compact and relatively affordable camera is ready for serious filmmaking.
Best compact		DJI Pocket 2		SEE IT	Despite its small size, this camera shoots super-smooth 4K video.
Best for vlogging		Sony ZV-1		SEE IT	This compact camera offers just about everything you need to get started.

Having a quality video camera will upgrade the production value of whatever you may be shooting. Whether working on a short film, a YouTube channel, or video content for social media, having more than your phone to capture your footage will ultimately make your final product look more professional. Although most modern cameras can shoot 4K video, when selecting a video camera, you should also consider specs like resolution, frame rate capabilities, sensor size, and bit-depth. The video cameras in this buying guide should appeal to a diverse group of videographers and fit various budgets. Of course, you can spend Michael Bay money and get true cinema rigs, but those fall outside the scope of this article because of their cost and complexity. Keep reading to learn more about the best video cameras currently available.

• Best overall: Sony FX30
• Best for filmmaking: Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro
• Best for photo and video: Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-1
• Best compact: DJI Pocket 2

How we chose the best video cameras

When selecting the cameras that appear in this buying guide, we considered video cameras that fit a variety of budgets, experience levels, but also a variety of needs based on the kinds of videos that might get created. We evaluated cameras that would be a good fit for filming documentary films, capturing events, and for YouTube creators. The cameras in this buying guide were selected through hands-on experience, user feedback, and trusted editorial reviews.

The best video cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Your phone has a video camera baked into it, but these dedicated cameras all offer something the device in your pocket can’t. Here are our specific picks to meet your cinematic (or social media) needs.

Best overall: Sony FX30

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Why it made the cut: This 4K APS-C sensor camera is optimized for video and offers a wide variety of capture formats, making it our pick for best overall video camera.  

Specs

• APS-C sensor 
• 10-bit 4:2:2 S-Log3 capture
• Shoots oversampled 4K up to 60p

Pros 

• In-body image stabilization 
• S-Log3 capabilities with uploadable custom LUTs and S-Cinetone color profiles
• Rig-ready body 

Cons 

• No mechanical shutter 

The compact Sony FX30 was built with small-scale filmmakers in mind. The 4K APS-C camera features excellent in-body image stabilization, five thread holes for attaching mounts, and three command dials for straightforward operation. The FX30 can shoot oversampled 4K up to 60p, features the same Log shooting modes found inside Sony’s high-end cinema cameras, and can upload customized LUTs (Look Up Tables, which work like visual styles you can apply to footage) to judge what final image quality will look like. Although it can technically shoot stills, the lack of a mechanical shutter doesn’t make it the ideal camera for the job because moving subjects can look distorted due to sensor readout. However, since it’s a camera designed with filmmakers in mind, we wouldn’t count that as a drawback. 

Best for filmmaking: Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro

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Why it made the cut: Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera combines a high dynamic range, excellent low light performance, and a massive sensor to offer Hollywood-style production value at a fraction of the price. 

Specs

• Super 35 sensor
• 13 stops of dynamic range
• Records in 12-Bit Blackmagic RAW 

Pros 

• Built in ND filters
• External controls make it easy to adjust settings while rolling
• USB-C port allows you to record to external drives
• EF lens mount makes it compatible with Canon lenses

Cons

• Have to build out with accessories 

The Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera makes it easy to capture Hollywood-style video thanks to its high dynamic range capabilities and ability to record in 12-bit  Black Magic Raw. Although it’s pricey compared to many of the 4K and 6K mirrorless cameras currently on the market, it’s a much more affordable option than the ARRI and Red rigs typically found on big-budget film sets. You can shoot 50 fps at 6K and 120 fps at 2.8K. USB-C expansion ports allow you to record directly to external drives. The external controls make it easy to change settings while rolling, plus it has an extremely intuitive interface for easy operation. 

The integrated Canon EF mount gives the camera native access to Canon’s DSLR lenses. Since Canon is phasing out cameras with that mount, there are a ton of great deals out there on the secondary market for extremely high-end lenses.

Best for photo and video: Canon EOS R6 Mark II

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Why it made the cut: This second-generation Canon EOS R6 is an excellent choice for shooting stills and video, thanks in part to a design that keeps video and still settings clearly separated from one another. 

Specs

• Full-frame 24-megapixel CMOS sensor 
• Shoots oversampled 4K up to 60p
• 10-bit C-Log3 

Pros 

• Supports ProRes RAW workflow with an Atomos recorder
• Dedicated switch for stills and video settings
• Offers false color displays

 Cons 

• Unreliable AF in video mode
• Histogram unavailable when recording video 

The Canon EOS R6 II made some substantial improvements to video features compared to the original, which is why it’s our pick for best hybrid camera. It’s built around a 24-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, a comfortable hand grip, and an intuitive control system that keeps video and photo settings separate. It can shoot oversampled 4K video up to 60p and has an improved system for thermal management—meaning it won’t overheat while shooting. Although the autofocus isn’t always reliable when shooting in video mode, this is still an excellent option for the creator looking for something that can shoot both video and stills.

Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-1

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Why it made the cut: A compact camera designed specifically with vloggers in mind, the SV-1 has excellent autofocus and a simple touchscreen interface that makes it easy to control while doing a walk and talk. 

Specs

• 20-megapixel 1” BSI CMOS sensor
• Shoots 4K up to 30p
• 8-bit Log and ‘HLG’ shooting modes

Pros 

• Has a directional 3-capsule mic for audio 
• Supports HLG and S-Log2/3 for easy color grading
• Real-time Eye AF 

Cons 

• No headphone jack for audio monitoring
• Limited zoom range

The ZV-1 is a compact, easy-to-use camera that makes it easy to start vlogging without much technical know-how. It has a clever directional three-capsule mic that makes it easy to capture quality audio while recording. It can shoot 4K up to 30p and Full HD video up to 120fps. There is a giant record button on the top of the camera and a simple touchscreen interface that makes operating the ZV-1 extremely intuitive. 

Its autofocus is fast and accurate, and settings like background de-focus and product-showcase mode are aimed specifically at content creators. If you are looking for an easy-to-use, compact camera with 4K capabilities, the ZV-1 has much to offer. 

Best compact: DJI Pocket 2

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Why it made the cut: This pocket-sized all-in-one gimbal and 4K camera is great for capturing stabilized footage. 

Specs

• 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor 
• Shoots 4K video at 60fps
• Built-in 3-axis gimbal for smooth, stabilized footage

Pros 

• Pocket-sized and easy to travel with
• Offers 140 minutes of recording time on a fully charged battery
• Fast f/1.8 lens 

Cons 

• Difficult to operate when attached to smartphone
• Subpar zoom quality 

This clever all-in-one gimbal and camera makes it easy to capture 4K stabilized footage. As the name suggests, the DJI Pocket 2 is compact enough to fit inside a pocket easily. The Pocket 2 features four mics with directional audio and a feature called soundtracking. The Pocket 2 is great as a secondary camera on a shoot or for capturing BTS footage from the day. Ultimately the Pocket offers an extremely easy way to grab some stabilized footage while shooting video.

Things to consider before buying a video camera 

Before purchasing a camera, it’s important to consider what your goals are and what kind of videos you are trying to create. You should also consider where your final video will be displayed. Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu have specific requirements for video specs that often require shooting on higher-end cameras. If you want to create video content primarily displayed on YouTube or other social media platforms, a mid-range video camera might be a more appropriate choice. Ultimately a person working on a full-length film or a short documentary will have very different needs than someone creating video for a YouTube channel. 

Camera types

One of the most important things to understand before buying a video camera is the different types of cameras available on the market. At the high-end, there are cine-cameras. Cine-cameras are some of the most expensive and largest cameras on the market because they often have the largest sensor, can shoot at very high resolutions, and allow for more flexibility when color grading. 

There are currently several mirrorless cameras aimed at videographers who don’t necessarily need a high-end cine camera. These cameras are great for creating videos that will primarily live on YouTube, making them a nice choice for vloggers, event videographers, and content creators. The nice thing about this set of cameras is that they also can shoot high-quality stills. 

Resolution

You’ll likely want to export 4K footage when you’re done editing, and you’ll need at least 4K capture for that. That’s table stakes at this point. Some cameras offer higher-res shooting which allows creatives to shoot over-sampled 4K footage to provide more detail.

Lens mount

If the camera doesn’t have an integrated lens, you’re going to have to provide some glass, and that plays a huge part in how your productions look. Camera manufacturers (like Sony and Canon) typically offer their first-party lenses to go with their bodies. Other manufacturers like Blackmagic equip their cameras with mounts that can accept lenses from a third party. Many filmmakers also use vintage manual focus lenses on their video cameras because they provide a unique look, and they typically cost a lot less than their modern high-end counterparts.

Heat management

True cinema cameras offer robust cooling because the electronics inside can get very hot as they pull in high-res footage. Dedicated video cameras are better equipped to deal with these issues than most hybrid-oriented mirrorless cameras. Manufacturers often indicate in the specs how long you can expect a camera to go before it runs into heat issues. It’s also worth noting that some modes heat things much more quickly than others. If you’re maxing out resolution and framerate while capturing a data-hungry format, things will get toasty a lot faster than if you’re shooting basic 4K footage.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best video cameras

• Best overall: Sony FX30
• Best for filmmaking: Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro
• Best for photo and video: Canon EOS R6 Mark II
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-1
• Best compact: DJI Pocket 2

Choosing the best video camera ultimately depends greatly on what you are shooting and where the final video will end up. It’s not unusual for videographers to shoot on various gear, depending on what a project calls for. When selecting the best video camera, you should always consider what type of gear is the best for getting the job done. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio, to video games, to cameras, and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best video cameras for 2023 as chosen by experts appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Sanken Cos-11D		SEE IT	Professional-grade audio in a tiny package
Best For DSLR		Sennheiser EW 112P G4		SEE IT	Natural-sounding mic with a powerful wireless kit
Best Mic For Streaming		Audio Technica AT899		SEE IT	A wired lav that’s used throughout many industries

Lavalier mics capture clear and clean audio in a small and lightweight package while leaving people’s hands free for other things. It’s a simple mission, and whether they’re used on a movie set, news broadcast, live presentation, or podcast, these ubiquitous clip-on mics have performed it well for decades. 

Lavaliers—also commonly known as a lapel mic, body mic, or, simply, a lav—come in wired varieties that plug into a power source and then directly into a recorder, computer, mixer, or PA system. Wireless models rely on a small transmitter and receiver pack that allow wearers a full range of unencumbered movement. Both can sound excellent, and choosing the right one depends entirely on your goals.

Lavs have a place in any dedicated audio kit, studio, or camera bag—or attached to your computer for Zoom meetings. And because they’re available at a variety of price points, you don’t need to be a professional sound engineer to afford one. We’ve assembled five of the best lavalier microphones to help you cut through the noise and find the one that best suits your needs.

• Best lavalier mic: Sanken Cos-11D
• Best for DSLR: Sennheiser EW 112P G4
• Best for iPhone: Rode smartLav+
• Best mic for streaming: Audio Technica AT899
• Best budget: Giant Squid Audio Labs

How we chose the best lavalier mics 

When considering which lavalier microphones to include in our recommendations, we relied on our own experience and also consulted with other professionals in the film, TV, streaming, and recording worlds to find out which mics they use. We read trade journals and websites and checked online impressions to see what typical users thought of the equipment. We narrowed the field down to 10 excellent microphones, focusing first and foremost on audio quality and then considering size, types of connectors, power sources, and, of course, price. When evaluating wireless kits, we evaluated the quality of the lav first and then looked at transmitter and receiver specs to check things like the robustness of their signals, their effectiveness in handling interference, and the flexibility of their features.

The best lavalier mics: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Sanken Cos-11D

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Why it made the cut: This professional-grade microphone captures the human voice without noticeable coloration, and its small size makes it easy to hide. No wonder you’ll find the Cos-11D on many TV and movie sets.

Specs

• Frequency Range: 50Hz-20kHz
• Connection Type: XLR-3M, Locking 3.5mm TRS
• Polar Pattern: Omni-Directional

Pros

• Natural, open sound
• Small and easy to hide
• Picks up very little clothing rustle
• Resistant to sweat and moisture

Cons

• More expensive than many lavs

The Sanken Cos-11D condenser mic has a frequency response of 50Hz to 20kHz and captures wide, open, and natural sound. This 4mm lavalier hides easily under clothes, and a small boost in the upper-mid frequencies helps to counter any muffling effect.

With an omnidirectional polar pattern, the mic captures audio clearly even when positioned off-axis—it’s pretty forgiving when not placed perfectly. A built-in mesh screen helps resist RF interference while also providing a fair degree of protection against sweat and smeary makeup. Sanken makes the lapel mic in various connector configurations to fit any use and it comes with an alligator clip; small snap-on windscreen; and plastic sleeve to help when mounting it under clothes.

Finding fault with the Cos-11D isn’t easy, but this level of quality comes with a higher price tag. If your budget isn’t there yet, or your applications just aren’t as demanding as the professional broadcast world, other mics can deliver excellent sound in almost as small a package for less money.

Best for DSLR: Sennheiser EW 112P G4

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Why it made the cut: Sennheiser pairs their excellent ME2-II microphone with a flexible wireless transmitter and receiver for a kit that won’t tie up filmmakers or streamers with extra cables.

Specs

• Frequency Range: 50Hz-18kHz
• Connection Type: Locking 3.5mm TRS
• Polar Pattern: Omni-Directional

Pros

• Rugged construction
• Easy to set up
• Comes with transmitter and receiver

Cons

• Requires a lot of batteries
• Audio can sound somewhat boxy

Sennheiser’s EW112P wireless kit includes their ME2-II omnidirectional microphone, a wireless transmitter, and receiver. It’s a clean-sounding, affordable kit that’s become a workhorse on indie films, documentaries, live presentations, worship services, business events—basically, any situation where movement is key. The 5.6-ounce receiver won’t weigh down your digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera and the transmitter easily slips into a pocket or clips to a belt. 

The microphone 50Hz to 18Khz frequency response doesn’t match those found on higher-end, professional lavaliers. But it still performs well without coloring the sound too much or adding mud to the low-end. The mic handles sudden boosts in volume well. Like other mics with omnidirectional polar patterns, the ME2-II isn’t picky about where you place it. However, it’s susceptible to rustling from clothes, so be careful if trying to hide it. 

The plastic and metal transmitter sends a signal up to 330 feet and features 1680 RF channels to help you avoid interference from other wireless sources. Digital displays on both the transmitter and receiver provide information on battery status, output level, and RF level. Each runs on convenient AA batteries, though you’ll want to buy a lot of them—best practices are that you change batteries before each shoot just to be safe. The kit includes cables terminating in both XLR and 3.5 TRS jacks for connecting the receiver to any kind of camera, as well as a convenient, plastic cold-shoe mount. 

Best for iPhone: Rode smartLav+

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Why it made the cut: The smartLav+ includes Rode’s iPhone recording app that features editing functions and EQ settings, and can export files to SoundCloud and Dropbox.  

Specs 

• Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz
• Connection Type: 3.5mm TRRS
• Polar Pattern: Omni-Directional

Pros

• Kevlar-reinforced cable resists stretching and tearing
• Included pop filter to cut down on plosive B and P sounds
• Custom iPhone recording app
• Compatible with third-party recording apps

Cons

• May require a TRRS-to-TRS adapter for use with some DSLRs.
• No version of Rode’s app for Android devices

Rode has a reputation for building affordable, high-quality mics. The smartLav+ plugs into an iPhone and you can use the company’s custom app to record, edit, and upload your audio. It’s great for anyone looking for a simple, streamlined recording solution that doesn’t require additional equipment. This body mic will work with Android phones as well, but you’ll need a third-party app. You can also plug it into DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, but you consult the camera’s manual to see if you’ll also need a TRRS-to-TRS adapter. 

As expected, this omnidirectional microphone picks up sound from all sides for easy use. It comes with a pop-filter to cut down on plosives—the hard B, P, and T sounds that can wreak havoc on a recording. Kevlar-reinforcing protects the cable from snapping, and the included mic mount includes an extra clip to help with wire management.   

Best mic for streaming: Audio Technica AT899

SEE IT

Why It made the cut: The AT899’s small profile won’t distract your viewers, and it works off an included battery pack or 48v phantom power, making it easy to integrate into any type of streaming studio. 

Specs

• Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz
• Connection Type: XLR
• Polar Pattern: Omni-Directional

Pros

• Professional-quality sound
• Small profile
• Multiple power options
• Includes battery pack

Cons

• Moderately expensive

The AT899 is a wired lavalier that offers professional-quality sound in a small, flexible package suitable for any streaming studio. The included power-pack connects the mic to any device, including computer interfaces, mobile recorders, or cameras. But this lav also supports 48-volt phantom power for streamlined integration into higher-end mixing consoles, streaming interfaces, or pre-amps.

The low-profile 5mm hides easily under clothes; but even when exposed, it’s small enough that it won’t distract your audience. A wide, flat 20Hz-20kHz frequency response captures the nuances of the human voice and an omnidirectional polar pattern offers flexibility.

You’ll need an XLR to 3.5mm TRS adapter if you want to plug it directly into a DSLR or computer without a balanced audio interface.

Best budget: Giant Squid Audio Labs

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This lavalier from Giant Squid Audio Labs has a low price and surprisingly wide frequency response, making it ideal for people with tight budgets. 

Specs 

• Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz
• Connection Type: 3.5mm TRS
• Polar Pattern: Omni-Directional

Pros

• Good sounding for a sub-$100 mic
• Convenient six-foot cord
• Low price

Cons

• Windscreen falls off easily
• Needs a TRRS adapter for smartphone use

With microphones, you often get what you pay for. However, Giant Squid Labs has done a nice job of delivering a reasonably flat-sounding lavalier for less than $50. Does it compete with a Sanken Cos-11D? Of course not—but the Sanken is about eight times the price. Still, Giant Squid Labs’ 20Hz-20kHz frequency response captures reasonably natural sound—even if it lacks a lot of the presence found in higher-end mics.

This budget lapel mic comes with an alligator clip, small windscreen, and a 6-foot cord. The latter is nice; no one looks great in a Zoom meeting when sitting too close to a web camera. And the windscreen helps cut down on noise when using the mic outside. However, it falls off easily, so consider avoiding heavy winds. The mic connects to a computer or other device using a 3.5mm TRS connector. If you want to use it with a smartphone, you’ll need a TRS-to-TRRS adapter.

Things to consider before buying the best lavalier mics

Wired or wireless

Lavalier microphones come in two basic varieties: Wired and wireless. Wired lavs connect to a small power source (usually an AA battery pack) that plugs into a recorder, PA system, or computer interface. It’s a strong signal path that won’t suffer from any interference. However, the length of the mic cable limits the wearer’s movement.

Wireless lavaliers plug into a small, wearable transmitter that sends the audio signal to a receiver plugged into a recorder or PA system. Wireless lavaliers provide complete freedom of movement, making them useful for video projects or presentations. While the transmitters and receivers have adjustable channels and frequencies to help avoid interference, sometimes they’ll still run into trouble in areas with too many other wireless systems. 

Pick-up pattern

Microphones have something called pick-up (or polar) patterns, which describe the way mics capture or reject sound. Most lavaliers have either omnidirectional or cardioid patterns. The first picks up sound evenly from all sides, a handy trick when there’s no way to perfectly position the mic. An omnidirectional mic attached to someone’s collar will capture sound almost as well as one placed on a lapel or tie. Mics with cardioid patterns, on the other hand, are directional, requiring more careful placement—make sure they’re pointed toward the speaker’s mouth. A less forgiving mic might sound like a big drawback, but because cardioid patterns are better at rejecting sound from the sides, these lavs work well in noisy spaces. When purchasing a body mic, think hard about the environment where you’ll use it the most.  

Power

Many lavaliers are condenser mics, and condensers need external power to operate. And let’s not forget, wireless mics require power for their transmitters and receivers. In either case, most of these body mics, as well as transmitters and receivers, run off AA batteries. Best practices say to change batteries before each use to avoid the risk of bad audio—or transmitters that drop signals entirely. Be prepared to stock up on AAs, and factor that into your budget. Good quality rechargeables will cost more at the outset, but they will cut costs and waste in the long run. 

Some lavaliers also accept 48+ volt phantom power from recorders, mixers, cameras, or other sources. These also have battery packs for use with other equipment. And other mics, like Rode’s smartLav+, can draw power through their 3.5mm jack. 

Connectors

The wires connected to lavaliers can terminate in a number of different jacks, including XLR, 3.5-inch TRS, and 3.5-inch TRRS for use with smartphones. Many companies manufacture their best clip-on mics in a variety of jack configurations. 

Durability

Lavaliers often take a lot of abuse. Not only can they get banged around, but their wires get twisted, and they’re sometimes attached to sweaty bodies. The best clip-on mics are durably built with at least a nod toward protecting them from low levels of moisture. Don’t submerge them, but don’t be afraid to attach them to someone who might be working in the sun all day. 

Attachments

Clip-on mics can attach to people in a variety of ways. Alligator-style clips are common and use a loop made from metal or rubber to hold the mic in place. If you don’t have anywhere to clip something like that, vampire clips use two small pins to attach the mic to clothing (hence the name). There are also magnetic attachments, which have a small metal disk that gets placed inside a shirt, and a small, magnetized loop that connects to it and holds the mic. Third-party manufacturers also make small foam or plastic sleeves that encase mics to minimize the rustling noise when hidden under clothes. Most lavaliers come with at least some basic attachments, but when buying others, find one that isn’t too big or small for your lav. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best lavalier mics

• Best lavalier mic: Sanken Cos-11D
• Best for DSLR: Sennheiser EW 112P G4
• Best for iPhone: Rode smartLav+
• Best mic for streaming: Audio Technica AT899
• Best budget: Giant Squid Audio Labs

If you’re looking for the cleanest, clearest, professional-quality lavalier for your film or streaming program, and you’re not worried about your budget, then I absolutely recommend the Sanken Cos-11D. It’s become my go-to mic on documentaries and TV shows, and I often pair it with a Sennheiser wireless transmitter and receiver for the most flexibility. 

But I’ve also used mics that cost a third as much. Before I upgraded to the Sanken, I was happy with the Sennheiser ME2-II lav that comes in the EW 112P G4 wireless kit. As long as I placed it carefully and watched my levels, it never let me down. I still carry it in my kit as a backup. 

In the end, great equipment won’t do much if you don’t know how to use it. Take the time to learn proper miking techniques and develop your skills. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best lavalier mics of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Canon EOS R50		SEE IT	This beginner-friendly camera offers intelligent auto modes with room to grow.
Best design		Nikon Z fc		SEE IT	This retro-styled camera draws inspiration from Nikon’s iconic film SLRs.
Best for vlogging		Sony Z-V1 II		SEE IT	This all-in-one compact shoots high-res video through a sharp, fast lens.

Survey the market right now, and you’ll find that cameras under $1,000 offer some truly impressive features that were once reserved for enthusiast and even pro models. Since mirrorless cameras took over from DSLRs in the last decade, cameras have gotten smarter, faster, and more compact. If you’re looking to upgrade from a smartphone, learn the basics of photography, step up your vlogging game, or just take pictures that look different from everyone else’s smartphone snaps, the best cameras under $1,000 can help while leaving enough cash left over for memory cards. 

• Best overall: Canon EOS R50
• Best design: Nikon Z fc
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-1 II
• Best full-frame: Canon EOS RP
• Best action camera: GoPro Hero 12 Black
• Best Sony mirrorless: Sony a6400

How we chose the best cameras under $1,000

I have been a professional photographer and camera journalist for nearly two decades. During the course of my work at our sibling publication, Popular Photography, I have shot with almost every major camera released in the past decade. In order to choose the best cameras under $1,000, I looked for models with particular strengths that would likely fit specific shooting styles. I emphasized durability, performance, and less tangible variables like access to a large infrastructure of lenses and accessories.

You’ll notice that you won’t find any DSLRs on this list. Everything is either a compact or mirrorless camera. I still like DSLRs, and they can still be great workhorse cameras, but they use older lenses that are only compatible with newer models via adapter. Plus, DSLRs miss out on some very useful features like object-based AF tracking. 

The best cameras under $1,000: Reviews & Recommendations

While we always make specific picks for models that we think will fit your needs, there’s always overlap. Peruse the entire list before getting your heart set on a specific camera.

Best overall: Canon EOS R50

SEE IT

Specs

• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Megapixels: 24.2
• Maximum video resolution: 4K at up to 30 fps

Pros

• Comes in well-under $1,000, even with a lens
• Uses Canon’s current lens mount, for which it’s always releasing new glass
• Super-fast shooting up to 15 fps with electronic shutter
• Advanced A+ Assist provides useful help for shooting in tough situations
• Excellent AF
• Small and light

Cons

• Very basic weather sealing
• May feel too small for some, especially when paired with a large lens

Canon’s entry-level mirrorless camera offers a seriously impressive list of specs, considering its roughly $800 price tag. And that includes the standard 18-45mm kit lens. The 24.2-megapixel resolution is tried-and-true as it was the standard for several years before resolutions started to shoot up. This provides a nice balance of easy-to-work-with files and the ability to crop in on an image after the fact. 

The camera weighs just about a pound, which makes it extremely compact. Compared to my professional-grade cameras, it’s noticeably lighter from the moment you pick it up. Despite its entry-level status and diminutive build, the R50 still offers many of the high-end features found in Canon’s enthusiast-level cameras. The object-based autofocus tracking does a stellar job locking onto humans and even animals, keeping them in focus without any extra work on the photographer’s part. It also has a fully articulating touchscreen display and a mic port for external audio.

One thing I particularly like for beginners in the R50: It offers an Advanced A+ Assist shooting mode, which helps simplify the process of capturing images in difficult locations. It’s like auto shooting mode, but a lot smarter. That’s a solid middle ground between total beginners and more advanced users who prefer more manual shooting modes. 

Overall, this is a great all-around camera that will leave money left in your budget for an extra lens like the 50mm f/1.8 STM, which performs way beyond its $169 price tag. 

Best design: Nikon Z fc

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Specs

• Lens mount: Nikon Z
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Megapixels: 20.9
• Maximum video resolution: 4K at 30 fps

Pros

• Modeled after one of the best film cameras ever made
• Ample tactile controls
• Excellent color and overall image quality
• Built tougher than most cameras at this price point
• Easy to adapt vintage lenses
• Snappy overall operation

Cons

• No lens—$1,000 only gets you the body unless you find it on sale

The Nikon FM2 is a truly iconic film SLR, and Nikon drew heavily from it to create this enthusiast-grade mirrorless camera. The top of the body offers a robust selection of actual dials to control variables like ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation. I personally love navigating through camera settings with tactile controls, so this earns the Z fc tons of points with me. I know many higher-level shooters who feel the same way. 

The body is relatively compact, but it’s easy to hold. The contoured body makes it easy to grasp with your shooting hand, which is good if you want to navigate the controls without removing the camera from your eye. The APS-C sensor isn’t quite as impressive as some more expensive full-frame models, but it provides excellent color and overall image quality. 

The viewfinder is also no slouch. It offers 100 percent coverage in both horizontal and vertical directions. The OLED display in the viewfinder offers 2.3 million pixels of resolution and seven levels of brightness adjustment depending on your needs. 

Feel is truly crucial for creating an enjoyable camera, and Nikon absolutely nailed it with this retro-cool body.

Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-1 II

SEE IT

Specs

• Lens mount: Fixed
• Sensor size: 1-inch type
• Megapixels: 20.1
• Maximum video resolution: 4K up to 30 fps

Pros

• Extremely compact body
• Advanced microphone 
• Fast lens with useful zoom range
• Screen flips around to the front for vlogging
• Solid still performance
• Sports a surprising array of physical buttons

Cons

• No access to interchangeable lenses

Smartphone cameras have come a long way in recent years, but creators almost always outgrow them. They want more flexibility, better image quality, and the creative control that comes with a dedicated camera. The Sony ZV-1 II is a great step up from a smartphone without making the process overly complicated for people who just want to get up and shoot in a hurry. 

This is a compact camera with an integrated zoom lens. So, you can’t swap the lens out, but you don’t have to worry about buying or choosing a lens every time you shoot. The built-in lens offers the same field of view you’d expect from an 18-55mm lens on a full-frame camera. That makes it plenty wide for capturing several people in the same shot when zoomed out. But it still offers a flattering perspective for portraits when zoomed in. The lens is also fast in terms of aperture, so it performs well in low-light. 

This camera offers several vlogging-specific features that aspiring YouTubers will appreciate. The screen flips around to face the front of the camera, which is necessary for framing a selfie photo or video. The integrated three-microphone array provides considerably better sound than we’re used to out of a built-in microphone. It even has a built-in Product Showcase mode, which tells the autofocus system to prioritize products when they’re held up in front of the lens. So, if you’re doing an unboxing or other product-oriented video, you won’t have to worry about focus. 

If you want something more advanced, check out our list of the best video cameras.

Best full-frame: Canon EOS RP

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Specs

• Lens mount: Canon RF
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Megapixels: 26.2
• Maximum video resolution: 4K

Pros

• One of very few full-frame options under $1,000
• Excellent overall image quality
• Relatively compact body for that big sensor
• Decent tactile controls 
• Rotating screen

Cons

• Shooters coming from Canon DSLRs will miss the joystick and control wheel on the camera’s back

When it comes to camera sensors, size isn’t everything. But, some inherent advantages come with a full-frame sensor. The primary benefit has to do with lenses. Because the sensor is the same size as a single image shot on 35mm film, full-frame cameras like the RP can utilize the entire image circle from high-end lenses. Smaller APS-C sensors only capture a smaller portion of the image, which makes the lenses appear more zoomed in. If you’re switching from a DSLR and you already own some glass, that’s a big deal. 

That 26-megapixel sensor also does an excellent job with color reproduction and low-light performance. Plus, with a larger sensor, it’s easier to get shallow depth-of-field effects (where the subject is sharp, but the background is blurry). 

The Canon RP has been around for several years now, so it doesn’t have the absolute newest guts inside. But it still performs well above its price tag. In addition to excellent still photography performance, it can capture 4K video with image stabilization. 

Best action camera: GoPro Hero 12 Black

SEE IT

Specs

• Lens mount: Fixed
• Sensor size: 1/1.9 custom
• Megapixels: 27
• Maximum video resolution: 5.3K

Pros

• Absurdly effective shake reduction
• Excellent image quality
• Super-rugged design
• Built-in front-and-back screens
• Robust app with remote control functionality
• Tons of mounting options

Cons

• Not a huge leap in tech from the Hero 11

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is a heck of a lot of camera for under $400. It offers a surprisingly sharp super-wide angle lens with a revamped image sensor. It shoots high-res, high-framerate video that translates into super-smooth footage. Plus, it has some of the best image stabilization we have ever seen. It’s almost shocking how smooth the GoPro can make even the burliest action shots look. 

The camera sports a front- and back-side touchscreen for navigating menus and composing shots, but it also offers a robust app for controlling the camera and then editing and reviewing footage after it’s shot. 

The new Hero 12 isn’t a huge revolution over the 11 that came before it, but there are some useful upgrades, including a standard tripod socket for easier mounting on non-GoPro accessories. 

With 27-megapixel stills, it’s no slouch in terms of photography, but it really shines in terms of video. Plus, it’s ultra-durable and totally waterproof (GoPros make the best underwater video cameras) without an extra case, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking and costing you even more money. 

Best Sony mirrorless: Sony a6400

SEE IT

Specs

• Lens mount: Sony E
• Sensor size: APS-C
• Megapixels: 25
• Maximum video resolution: 4K

Pros

• Fast, accurate autofocus
• Excellent image quality
• Lots of tactile controls
• Built-in viewfinder (not always a given in rangefinder-style bodies)
• Tilting screen
• Small and light

Cons

• It’s a few generations old by now

This isn’t the latest addition to Sony’s excellent A6X00 series, but it still has plenty of life in it, especially at its now permanent sub-$1,000 price. It relies on Sony’s proven 24.2-megapixel sensor and a well-regarded rangefinder-style design. Despite its compact nature, it offers plenty of tactile controls, including a mode dial and a function dial. 

The built-in viewfinder is big, bright, and easy to see. That’s not always a given with a camera this small and cheap. Its $1,000 price tag includes a fully electronic 16-50mm kit lens that flattens out when it’s not in use for easy transport. 

This is a fantastic vlogging camera if you want to shoot video. Sony offers an accessory microphone for the camera, and it’s light and compact to hold at arm’s length for an extended period of time. Not bad for an older model that saves you more than $400 compared to the latest and greatest. 

What to consider when buying a camera under $1,000

As stated earlier, this list is made up entirely of mirrorless or compact cameras. DSLRs can still be great, but they lack some of the very convenient features found in their mirrorless counterparts. They’re also not natively compatible with the most recent lenses from various manufacturers. Here are some more variables and terms to consider before making a purchase.

Lens options

Lenses make a huge difference when it comes to the look of your content. Compact-style cameras have built-in lenses, which some shooters like because they keep everything in one tidy package. It’s a matter of simplicity over flexibility. Buying into an interchangeable-lens camera system is more complex. You’ll want to make sure that your camera uses the latest lenses. Most manufacturers have switched their focus to mirrorless lenses over DSLR glass, which means you’ll want to go mirrorless if you want to futureproof your purchase as much as possible. 

Resolution and sensor size

Most cameras on this list have resolution in the 20-30 megapixel range, which should be plenty for most users. When it comes to sensor size, you’ll typically have to choose between full-frame and APS-C. APS-C is about three-quarters the size of a full-frame sensor. Full-frame cameras typically offer better depth-of-field effects, better low-light performance, and increased access to wide-angle lenses. APS-C sensors make telephoto lenses more acceptable, offer smaller lenses, and typically cost less than their full-frame siblings. 

Video features

4K capture is common across the board at this point. Most cameras on this list top out around 30 fps, which is a standard video framerate. Some shooters prefer 24 fps because it simulates the cinema, but not all cameras offer it. Some more high-end cameras also offer 4K video at 60 fps and beyond for smoother-looking footage. Again, that’s something to check for before you buy if it’s important to you. 

You’ll also want to make note of the recording formats. We won’t go deep on those here because they can get extremely confusing, but it pays to know what your workflow looks like before you buy a camera so you know everything will work nicely together.

Manual features

When you’re a beginner, manual mode can seem intimidating. That won’t last forever, though, and you want a camera that you can grow into. Manual mode offers creative freedom for those willing to climb the learning curve. Beginner-friendly features are great for getting started, but eventually, you’ll want to strike out on your own.

Build quality

Most cameras under $1,000 aren’t built to endure super-harsh conditions. If you’re planning on really abusing your camera, consider a model that’s built for it. That’s why we recommend the GoPro so often. You’ll make better content if you’re not worried about breaking your pricey camera. 

FAQs

Final thoughts regarding the best cameras under $1,000

• Best overall: Canon EOS R50
• Best design: Nikon Z fc
• Best for vlogging: Sony ZV-1 II
• Best full-frame: Canon EOS RP
• Best action camera: GoPro Hero 12 Black
• Best Sony mirrorless: Sony a6400

Pro cameras still cost you thousands of dollars, but you can get a truly capable imaging machine for less than $1,000. The trick to picking the right one is focusing on your specific niche. If you’re really into still photography, go for something with a full-frame sensor. If you’re an aspiring video creator, get something specifically meant for shooting motion. Whatever you pick, learn how to use it to the best of its abilities. Even the best cameras under $1,000 won’t be worth much without creativity. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best cameras under $1,000 in 2023, according to experts appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight Camera Kit		SEE IT	4K video and color night vision in a convenient bundle.
Best smart		Canary Flex Home Security Camera		SEE IT	This versatile camera works indoors and outdoors.
Best budget		Blink mini Compact Indoors Plug-in Cam		SEE IT	A feature-packed camera in a small, affordable package.

They say home is where the heart is—and with a home security camera at the heart of it, that home can be safer. After all, your heartful home is where your stuff is, where your loved ones may be, so it could be where your mind is even when you’re out. If you find yourself constantly stressed when you leave home—worrying about your packages, pets, property, etc.—setting up security cameras can offer peace of mind alongside advanced features. Whether outdoors or indoors, security cameras now can be completely discreet if desired, sometimes require as little as two screws or double-sided tape to install, and may offer instant smartphone alerts and even live video you can monitor remotely. No longer a massive investment of money or space, the best home security cameras integrate easily and let you check in on and around your home from the beach or the master bedroom.

• Best overall: Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight 2 Camera Kit
• Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam Battery
• Best floodlight: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus
• Best smart: Canary Flex Home Security Camera
• Best starter bundle: Wyze Cam v3 2-pack
• Best budget: Blink mini Compact Indoors Plug-in Cam

How we chose the best home security cameras

We looked at user reviews and critic recommendations and consulted our past security coverage to find the best home security cameras. We paid attention to features like battery life, camera resolution, viewing angle, and storage options to weed out the vulnerable from the proven protected picks.

The best home security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

There was a time when a security system involved unsightly cameras that had to be professionally installed. Spools of wiring would lead to a VCR, where routinely, you’d need to rewind or replace the tape if you needed to review the evidence following an intrusion (assuming the cassette hadn’t run out, broken, etc.). Well, those days are long gone. One of our picks should help bring you and your home into the digital age if you haven’t already made the switch.

Best overall: Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight 2 Camera Kit

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 4K
• Battery life: 4-6 months
• Viewing angle: 180 degrees
• Storage: microSD card

Pros

• Weather-resistant
• Built-in siren
• Long battery life

Cons

• Expensive

The Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight kit is where all the bells meet all the whistles, which is what you’d expect from a $600 surveillance system. Included are two wire-free, weather-resistant cameras with up to six months of battery life. A 180-degree diagonal viewing angle offers coverage of every corner, while a spotlight and two-way audio assist in identifying visitors, plus a siren can discourage intruders. The cameras, magnetically connected to a screw-secured mount, can display live 4K video with HDR and color night vision, record to internal storage (a microSD card, sold separately, accessed through the included Arlo Hub), or retain 2K/4K cloud video clips depending on your plan with the (optional) Arlo Smart subscription service. The cameras set up quickly through the Arlo app and play nice with all the major smart platforms—Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, and IFTTT—making it easily one of the best home security cameras.

Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam Battery

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Battery life: 6 months
• Viewing angle: 130 degrees diagonal, 110 degrees horizontal, 57 degrees vertical
• Storage: Cloud (available with subscription)

Pros

• Robust app
• Lots of accessories and integrations
• Indoor- and outdoor-friendly

Cons

• Strategic placement is important
• Some features require Ring’s cloud plan

When you hear the brand Ring, you may immediately think about doorbell cams, which is understandable considering the name and how the company started. But the product range includes whole-house solutions at an approachable price (a “Ring of security” is the new branding), including a completely wire-free option in a sleek, cylindrical form factor that’s both indoor/flat surface and outdoor/mount friendly. This Ring Stick Up Cam Battery has 1080p video with a 110-degree horizontal/57-degree vertical field of view, so strategic placement is important. And some features require paying for Ring’s cloud plan, but it’s a quickly up-and-running value with a robust app, particularly great for folks who already have Alexa devices (Amazon now owns Ring). And, because it’s an Amazon product, there are copious accessories (such as solar panels), for those inclined to upgrade.

Best floodlight: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080 p
• Battery life: One year
• Viewing angle: 140 degrees horizontal, 80 degrees vertical
• Storage: Cloud storage

Pros

• Built-in 105-decibel siren
• Motion-activated lights
• Works with Alexa

Cons

• Reviews note problems with controlling the lights using Alexa

The Ring Floodlight cam projects 2,800 Lumens across a wide viewing angle to spook intruders and capture HD video in the harsh light of a soft white glow. Compare that to the 300-375 Lumens of a traditional spotlight cam. While placement isn’t as flexible, constrained to an outdoor, weatherproof electrical box for hardwiring, the Ring Floodlight offers all the same conveniences (night vision, a speaker, and a siren) of its battery-run brethren, plus the extra oomph. And, like products across the Ring line, alerts and video can be sent easily to various Echo speakers/screens, which can also accept commands for the Ring (which, don’t worry, also works with Google Assistant and IFTTT). Software handles everything, including custom scheduling for your floodlights; no physical hub required.

Best smart: Canary Flex Home Security Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Battery life: 2-3 months
• Viewing angle: 116 degrees
• Storage: Cloud storage

Pros

• Weatherproof
• Discreet
• Can choose between wired and wire-free

Cons

• More robust features only with a Premium Service plan

If you’re looking for flexibility, you’ll find it in both the Canary Flex name and feature set. Housed on a magnetic 360-degree swivel base, this smart security camera can operate wireless or plugged in, features up to 1080p HD automatic night vision video (though 720p is the default on a weak streaming connection), and two-way audio for spooking crooks and soothing children. There’s person and package detection (just don’t expect facial recognition akin to the much pricier Google Nest IQ cam, which is the best smart-home camera for AI if you’re restricting your search to indoor models). There’s no local storage, so you will need to pay for a service, but the Canary camera shares all the standard features of competitors and integrates with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It lacks a limit on where you can use it, however.

Best starter bundle: Wyze Cam v3 2-pack

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Battery life: 6 months
• Viewing angle: 130 degrees
• Storage: microSD card

Pros

• Two-way audio
• IP65 weather resistance
• Continuous recording with microSD card

Cons

• Lacks removable battery

While it won’t win awards for aesthetics (unless you have fond memories of playing with building blocks as a child), the WYZE Cam exceeds in inexpensive efficiency as long as you don’t mind dedicating some in-home space. The WYZE outdoor security camera is weather-resistant for deployment around your home (network) perimeter, but it’s also easily detachable with a “Travel Mode” that allows you to take the camera with you to record video directly to your phone without WiFi. There are sacrifices—like the lack of a removable battery, so you have to dismount the entire camera for charging—but it’s magnetically connected, so that’s just a simple twist.

Best budget: Blink mini Compact Indoors Plug-in Cam

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 1080p
• Battery life: Two years
• Viewing angle: 110 degrees diagonal
• Storage: Cloud storage

Pros

• Two-way audio
• Day and night HD video
• Motion detection

Cons

• Needs more cameras for more comprehensive coverage

Amazon’s most cost-efficient entry into the security camera market, the Blink mini meets the baseline features of competitors at a $35 price tag. It’s a palm-sized cube, must be plugged in (not uncommon for an indoors model), but is extremely practical. If you want the most approachable way to get 1080p livestream video with infrared night vision into your Alexa-maintained (or IFTTT-automated) monitoring routine, and don’t need native smart features like person/package detection, this is the best minimalist model to pick. It doesn’t feature the same audio triggers as Ring devices, and only saves clips to the cloud. More cameras, restricted to available wall sockets, might be required for the most comprehensive, widescreen coverage, but at this price that’s not a heavy lift.

Things to consider when choosing the best home security cameras

When it comes to picking the best home security cameras for your space, I spy with my little camera eye a lot of options. The size and cost of gear have gone down (units are available from $30 to $300), but the feature set has only expanded.

Easy-to-install models range from black-and-white video to streaming in vivid color, capturing just “standard” HD all the way up to 4K, storing video locally or in the cloud, permanently or temporarily. Some security cameras run 24/7, some are motion-activated, while others only come to life at the press of a button. There are those that have a fixed field of view, others that pan and tilt, some that are ruggedized with floodlights and/or night vision, and ones intended to be near well-lit wall sockets only. You get the idea. In this guide, we’ll walk you step-by-step through the main decision points so you can truly pick the model that will work best for you. (If you’re on the market for a home security system and not just cameras, we’ve got you covered there, too.)

Do you want 4K resolution in your home security cameras?

Regular HD resolution (1080p, or 2 megapixels) is fine if you just need to confirm the presence of your restaurant take-out deliveries and get some protection against porch pirates and trash pandas. But what if you’re in a really high-traffic area, or have some high-value targets outside—an Airstream or a boat, for example. If, in the event of an incident, you want the ability to really zoom in on details, then Super HD (4 megapixels, or 2K) and especially the best 4K security camera (a full 8 megapixels) are the superior choice. If vandalism or an actual intrusion occurs, any footage collected could assist the police and/or insurance claims.

But remember: While wireless is convenient, all the resolution in the world won’t matter if your WiFi is subpar. Most connected security cameras support the 802.11 b/g/n standard and suggest a broadband connection with at least 2Mbps upload speed, but that’s the bare minimum for potentially spotty 1080p. If you want to stream in 4K without lag or pixelation, you need a stable connection of at least 25Mbps. Consider a new WiFi router or a WiFi booster to help expand your network.

Want to go totally wireless for less?

The best wireless security camera is always going to fit your needs and budget. You won’t get 4K at the $100 price point, but you can easily cover every corner without cutting corners (just cost). You can still get the convenience of a removable rechargeable battery and an understated enclosure that can withstand the elements. The most necessary features—at least 1080p HD video with infrared night vision, as well as two-way audio—are there no matter where you are.

An outdoor floodlight camera can offer extra security

Maybe you have a large, but not well-lit yard, and you noticed someone or something has been rummaging through your trash. If you want to find out if it’s a person looking for personally identifiable information or animals appreciating your taste in home cooking, you may need more than a solitary spotlight. Or maybe you have a work shed located in a darker recess of your property. The best floodlight camera will have advanced motion detection but also customized activity zones so that every bird passing by doesn’t trigger it. At worst, you’ll feel more secure and possibly end up with footage of some adorable animals feasting on leftovers.

Do you want a flexible, smart security camera?

Imagine you recently had a child, and you want a baby monitor, but you also plan to get a fancy new grill, and you’ll want to keep an eye on it overnight. You realize you need to slowly build out surveillance systems, but you don’t want them to get locked into any one ecosystem or environment because your needs and/or devices are evolving. In your case, the best security camera will be one that’s low-profile, battery-powered, weatherproof, and swift to install, while not being brand-exclusive like the Ring or Google Nest.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best home security cameras

• Best overall: Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight 2 Camera Kit
• Best wireless: Ring Stick Up Cam Battery
• Best floodlight: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus
• Best smart: Canary Flex Home Security Camera
• Best starter bundle: Wyze Cam v3 2-pack
• Best budget: Blink mini Compact Indoors Plug-in Cam

Before you drill any holes or put a dent in your savings, survey where and when you need surveillance. Take into consideration device support and room for expansion. The best home security cameras will fit the physical footprint and type of activity you need to monitor, giving you consistent, reassuring coverage.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best home security cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro		SEE IT	Versatile and produces excellent video.
Best with 4K resolution		Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Technology Security Camera		SEE IT	This camera can detect people, vehicles, animals, and packages.
Best budget		Wyze Cam v3		SEE IT	A cheap camera with a cheap cloud storage subscription.

Although security cameras have been around for more than 50 years, do-it-yourself wireless security cameras installed by consumers have only been available for a fraction of that time. Before that, most security cameras needed to be installed by professional technicians. However, a few factors have allowed wireless security cameras to evolve so that average consumers can install and use them: They’ve been designed to be easy to install, use, and understand; because of marketplace competition, DIY wireless security cameras are relatively inexpensive; and technology that interacts with wireless security cameras, like home wireless networks, as well as other technologies, are easier to use and works seamlessly with each other. The best wireless security cameras should fit the needs of almost every consumer and budget.

• Best overall: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro 
• Best system: SimpliSafe 10 Piece Wireless Home Security System with Outdoor Camera 
• Best with 4K-resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor WiFi 6 Technology Security Camera 
• Best without a subscription: TP-Link Tapo C310 
• Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2 
• Best budget: Wyze Cam v3

How we chose the best wireless security cameras

I’ve written about many types of different cameras, including wireless security cameras, for a number of publications over the years, including PCMag.com, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, Tom’s Guide, Gearbrain, and, of course, Popular Science. I’ve also written stories on wireless security systems, video doorbells, and other related security system devices. I brought my expertise in this area to help discover the best outdoor security cameras. I also looked at critical reviews and user recommendations and did a lot of research to narrow down our list to find the best models. 

To find the best security cameras, I carefully considered a number of factors, including video resolution, night vision capability, audio, ease of use, versatility, and smart home compatibility.

The best wireless security cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Today, you’ll find a very wide range of wireless security cameras and smart-home security systems, which are very easy to install and use. Many of them also include cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence for detecting people, pets, and objects. They’re available at a variety of price points—from budget models that don’t require a subscription for storing and accessing video that costs as little as $30 to feature-packed models that cost more than $400. One of our picks will allow you to give you peace of mind by protecting your home, both inside and out.

Best overall: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 1080p 
• Field of view: 140 degrees
• Power: Wired only
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription) 
• Size: 12.8 x 7.8 x 8.5 inches 

Pros

• Versatile
• Excellent quality 1080p-resolution video
• Comes with dual-band WiFi
• Includes two bright adjustable LED spotlights
• Comes with a remote-activated alarm 

Cons

• A bit pricey
• Lacks support for HomeKit and Google Assistant compatibility

Although it’s a bit pricey, there’s a lot to like about this Ring wireless security camera. For starters, like the company’s many doorbell cameras, it’s easy to use and set up. However, since it needs a wired connection, you may be a bit limited when mounting this model outside your home. It produces excellent quality video, assisted by HDR features to provide video footage with better contrast and detail. That can be helpful if the location you’re setting up to monitor is dimly lit during certain times of the day. Of course, that dim setting would also benefit from the two adjustable LED floodlights included on this Ring cam, rated at 3,000 degrees Kelvin and 2,000 Lumen.

There’s a variety of other useful features that also make it worth the price, like color night vision. But it also includes additional smart features, like 3D motion detection, a customizable system, and a bird’s eye view feature, which tracks a visitor (or intruder) on your property and provides you with a record of their path. It also has clear, two-way audio and a loud siren to scare away trespassers. However, in order to access videos and enable some features, you will need to subscribe to a Ring Protect plan, which starts at $3.99 a month.   

Best system: SimpliSafe 10 Piece Wireless Home Security System with Outdoor Camera 

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 140 degrees
• Power: Rechargeable battery 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant 
• Storage options: Cloud storage only (for both cameras)
• Size: 4 x 4 x 8.3 inches

Pros

• Lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box
• Outside cam has a very good quality video with 140 degrees field of view
• Easy to install and use
• Comes with a professional monitoring option
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant 
• Includes convenient magnetic mount

Cons

• Expensive
• Lacks support for HomeKit 

If you’re looking to install a wireless security camera and a DIY home security system along with it, the SimpliSafe 10-Piece Wireless Home Security System might be your best bet. It’s pricey but far less expensive than buying the components individually. But even more importantly, it lets you set up a whole security system right out of the box.

What’s in the box? In addition to the two 1080p cameras (indoors and outdoors), it also comes with a base station, keypad, motion sensors, and entry sensors. All the components, including the cameras, connect to the base station, which also includes the ability to generate a loud siren to scare off intruders. Although the inside security camera isn’t the most robust model, the outside camera offers very good quality video with color night vision. What’s also nice is that the SimpliSafe mobile app is nicely designed to let you effectively interact with your entire setup, and it comes with the option of including a professional monitoring system. However, for the price, it would be nice if both cameras had the option to store videos locally. 

Best with 4K-resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor WiFi 6 Technology Security Camera 

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 4K
• Field of view: 140 degrees
• Power: Wired power only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
• Storage options: Local storage
• Size: 3.0 x 3.0 x 3.4 inches

Pros 

• Versatile
• Excellent quality 4K-resolution video
• Comes with dual-band WiFi
• Includes WiFi 6 technology

Cons

• Doesn’t have a battery backup

As a brand, Lorex has been making very good quality outdoor security cameras for many years. This model is no exception. It stands out because it captures very good quality 4K-resolution video and has a very good 8-megapixel sensor that lets you shoot 8-megapixel photos with more detail and data. It also comes with WiFi 6 technology, allowing faster data transmission with a compatible router to deliver impressive 4K resolution with fast loading time. Plus, it includes 2.4/5GHz dual-band coverage for better connectivity. You can also use one of two smart-motion detection features: Person, Vehicle, and Animal detection or Package detection, although both cannot be used simultaneously. 

It’s not ideal for everyone, though. It’s hardwired, so you may be more limited in where you need to place this model. It also doesn’t have a battery backup, which can be useful for units that are wired. 

Best without a subscription: TP-Link Tapo C310 

SEE IT

Specs

• Video resolution: 2K
• Field of view: 104 degrees
• Power: Wired only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant,
• Storage options: Cloud storage or local storage 
• Size: ‎5.6 x 4.1 x 2.5 inches

Pros

• Very affordable
• Excellent 2K-resolution (2304 x 1296) video quality
• Versatile 
• Can connect wirelessly or via an ethernet connection

Cons

• Lacks support for HomeKit 
• Lower frame rate than other models
• Field of view isn’t as wide as other models

Not only is this one of the most affordable security cameras on the market, but it’s also great for those who want to avoid paying extra for cloud storage since you can store video locally by inserting a microSD memory card (up to 128 GB). However, it’s also very versatile since it does offer a subscription plan if you’d rather subscribe to the brand’s cloud service for storing video (Tape Care). Overall, it captures excellent-quality video. However, it has a lower frame rate (just 15 frames per second). It also comes with night vision, but it’s only in black-and-white, and not color. 

Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2 

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 130 degrees
• Power: Battery powered only
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage
• Size: 3.4 x 2.5 x 4.7 inches

Pros 

• Very versatile
• Can use either cloud or local storage
• Includes color night vision 
• Powerful Secure Plan features

Cons

• Pricey
• Need to pay extra for a cellular plan

One thing almost every outdoor security camera requires is access to your home’s wireless network. But what if you have poor reception or don’t have a WiFi network at all? If you’re one of these people, consider the Arlo Go 2. It not only lets you hook up to a WiFi network, but you can also use a cellular plan. However, if you choose the latter, you’ll have to buy both a cellular plan and SIM card. Also, it only works with Verizon, US Cellular, and T-Mobile. 

It does have color night vision and two-way talk and audio, but it’s not perfect for everyone. For instance, it provides you with the option of using cloud storage via one of Arlo’s Secure plans (plans start at $4.99), which also lets you access special features or store your videos on local storage. Still, if you use local storage, you can’t access the Secure plan features, which include 30-day video recording, person, vehicle, and animal detection (and the ability to distinguish between them), and smart activity zones, which allow you to focus motion detection on a specific area within your camera’s field of view. 

Best budget: Wyze Cam v3

SEE IT

Specs 

• Video resolution: 1080p
• Field of view: 130 degrees
• Power: Wired power only 
• System compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT
• Storage options: Cloud-based (via subscription); accepts microSD memory card for local storage
• Size: 2.0 x 2.0 x 2.3 inches 

Pros 

• Very affordable
• Compatible with major smart technologies
• Cloud subscriptions are relatively inexpensive
• Color night vision is very good

Cons

• Lacks support for HomeKit compatibility
• Lower frame rate than other models
• May not be as sturdy as other models

This hardwired security camera is one of the cheapest on the market, but it performs very well, capturing very good quality video. It also provides you with the option of storing your videos in cloud storage or on local storage using a microSD memory card. 

But it’s not the perfect option for all users. For example, those looking for high-res video probably won’t be happy since it shoots just 1080p video. It also shoots at a lower frame rate than other models: For Daytime and Color Night Vision, the frame rate is 20 frames per second (fps), and with Night Vision with IR lights it’s a frame rate of 15fps. However, remember to consider your needs—you’re most likely not looking to produce cinema-quality video. You simply want your security camera to capture decent video. 

What to consider when buying the best wireless security camera

Wireless security cameras continue to evolve at a dizzying pace, with many models coming with better connectivity and cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve a host of features. However, if you’re new to these types of cameras, it can be confusing to figure out which features, specs, and capabilities are important for you and your home security system. 

The following factors will help you figure out what’s important before you purchase a wireless security camera or wireless security camera system:  

Video resolution and field of view 

You’ll often see 1080p, 2K, or 4K resolutions in outdoor security cameras. A higher resolution means you’ll get a crisper image. A higher resolution will also fill up your local or cloud storage faster. That’s a problem if your subscription plan or card has a fixed limit to its capacity. If you’re trying to balance subscription costs for cloud storage with what resolution you’ll need, consider how detailed of a picture you’ll need. If you need more detail, go with a higher resolution. 

You’ll also want to check a security camera’s field of view specification, which is measured in degrees and tells you how much of a particular scene your security camera is capturing. The higher the FOV number indicates a wider lens and lets you see more of a particular scene in front of your house.  

Lighting, power options, and storage

Light has always been incredibly important when it comes to capturing digital video and photos. That’s why if you need your outdoor security camera to capture better-quality video or photos, you should consider buying a model with flood lights. Such models not only allow for improved image quality, but they can also act as a deterrent to intruders.

When planning to set up your new outdoor security camera, you’ll need to think about where to install it. This is not as much of an issue for models that only use battery power. However, hardwired connections require a direct connection to your home or an outdoor outlet with a weatherproof cord. This limits where you can place it. You make up for the lack of creative control with video and audio quality, which is better in a hardwired connection. 

In addition to lighting and power options, consider whether you want your security camera to store the video it captures locally, on a cloud-based server, or perhaps both. Most store video in the cloud, which is convenient, but you’ll most often have to pay a fee to access them. So, if you don’t want to pay a fee for a cloud service, consider models that let you store them on a memory card. 

Other features to look for

Because there is a lot of competition in the industry, all security camera brands are continually updating models and adding new features. For example, many brands have introduced privacy features, such as two-factor authentication, to ensure devices are not compromised or hacked. Many brands are also making security cameras that integrate with smart-home features, such as voice technologies, like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and others. And then there are some brands that even offer professional monitoring services for an extra level of protection, but you will generally have to pay more for such services. Make sure you consider additional features that may be important to you and your family.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best wireless security cameras

• Best overall: Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Pro 
• Best system: SimpliSafe 10 Piece Wireless Home Security System with Outdoor Camera 
• Best with 4K-resolution: Lorex 4K Spotlight Indoor/Outdoor WiFi 6 Technology Security Camera 
• Best without a subscription: TP-Link Tapo C310 
• Best with cellular: Arlo Go 2 
• Best budget: Wyze Cam v3

A wireless security camera can provide you with a way to keep a watchful eye on your home, both inside and out. But before you buy, consider the actual space you need to use the security camera or cameras for and what constellation of features on those cameras will best cover that area. If you’re living in a one-room apartment, you might only need one inexpensive security camera. But if you’re looking to oversee a more expansive environment, you may want to buy more than just one security camera. And be sure to always examine the mobile apps for all models to make sure they’re easy to use.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best wireless security cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		RICOH WG-6		SEE IT	It’s worth spending a little extra cash to get a very capable little camera.
Best film camera		Kodak Weekend Underwater Disposable Camera		SEE IT	This film camera offers a retro aesthetic and dead simple operation.
Best budget		Minolta 48 MP Dual Screen Waterproof Digital Camera		SEE IT	At less than $100 retail, you won’t have to worry too much about this camera’s well-being.

Many modern smartphones offer some water resistance, but we don’t recommend taking them for a swim, especially when there are solid, cheap underwater cameras on the market. High-end underwater photography rigs can cost thousands of dollars, but you don’t have to have James Cameron money to get great aquatic shots. The best cheap underwater cameras are great for a day at the pool, beach vacations, or even more serious scuba adventures well below the surface.

• Best overall: RICOH WG-6 
• Best for video: GoPro HERO9 
• Best for kids: Waterproof Underwater Camera 
• Best film camera: Kodak Weekend Underwater Disposable Camera
• Best budget: Minolta 48 MP Dual Screen Waterproof Digital Camera

How we chose the best cheap underwater cameras

The writers and editors at PopSci have decades of photographic experience, as well as the cumulative knowledge of our sister publication, Popular Photography. For this buying guide, we relied on a mixture of hands-on experience, user feedback, editorial reviews, and spec comparisons to find the most reliable, low-cost models. We sought to find a balance of features and budget that would fit the needs of most people. 

The best cheap underwater cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Before you bring your gear out for a swim, ensure you’re prepared with equipment that meets the needs of what you are trying to capture. Sure, you could put your iPhone 14 Pro Max in a dedicated scuba case, but that can get bulky—and what if there’s a leak? A waterproof camera is a better choice, but not all waterproof cameras are created equal—especially the inexpensive ones. 

Best overall: RICOH WG-6

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 20 megapixels
• Sensor size: 1/2.3-inch
• Memory card Slot: Single SD 
• Waterproof: Down to 65 feet

Pros

• 4K video capabilities
• Built-in ring light
• Digital microscope mode 
• Rugged build

Cons

• Small sensor isn’t the best in dim light

This waterproof camera isn’t the least expensive choice on our list, but it’s packed with advanced features that make it worth spending a little bit more. It has a rugged build, and in addition to being waterproof down to 65 feet, it is also shockproof, crushproof, and can operate in temps down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. It has built-in GPS and a built-in LED ring light for illuminating underwater scenes. If you’ve ever tried to film underwater only to come out with murky results, you know how important that is. This built-in ring light is particularly helpful if you are shooting closeups in one of the camera’s macro modes.

As for video, it can capture 4K/30p footage and 120 fps when shooting at 1280×720. Although it lacks WiFi, image stabilization, and RAW image support, this isn’t surprising given the affordable price point. Ultimately, it is the combination of features, impressive depth capabilities, and relatively affordable cost that make the Ricoh WG-6 our pick for best overall. This cheap waterproof digital camera should be able to handle whatever adventures you throw it into. 

Best for video: GoPro HERO9

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 20 megapixels
• Sensor size: 1/2.3-inch 
• Memory card Slot: Micro SD
• Waterproof: Down to 33 feet

Pros

• Can shoot 5K/30p video
• Hypersmooth image stabilization
• Compact design
• Front-facing live-screen

Cons

• Confusing menus 
• Limited battery life 

Buying gear that’s a few generations behind can be a great way to save money when shopping for new equipment. Although the GoPro HERO9 was released over three years, it’s still an incredibly capable camera for shooting underwater. The HERO9 has a front-facing display, can capture 5K/30p footage, and can produce 20-megapixel stills. It’s waterproof down to 33 feet without a case, and it has a number of accessories that make it functional for a wide variety of outdoor water activities.

Hypersmooth 3.0 makes it easy to shoot super smooth videos, even when the waves get rough. In addition to being waterproof, it also happens to be dustproof and freezeproof, and since it’s not quite the newest GoPro, it’s a budget-friendly version if you are looking for a waterproof camera that excels at video. 

Best for kids: YTETCN Waterproof Underwater Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 12 megapixels
• Sensor size: 1/2.3-inch 
• Memory card Slot: Single SD 
• Waterproof: Down to 100 feet with case

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Kid-friendly design
• Built-in custom frames and stickers

Cons

• Limited image resolution 

This inexpensive, easy-to-use camera is a great choice for parents looking for something to keep the kids entertained on vacation without breaking the bank. Housed inside a plastic case, this kid-friendly cam is waterproof down to 100 feet, has large buttons, a number of built-in frames and stickers, and even some built-in games. It can shoot 1080p video and has a battery life of 2-3 hours. Just ensure your little ones keep this particular camera in its plastic housing—it’s the one thing keeping the camera safe from the elements. 

Don’t expect image quality beyond what you’d get out of an older smartphone camera, but that’s not really the point of a mode like this. It’s built for fun, and it accomplishes that task.

Best film camera: Kodak Weekend Underwater Disposable Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Film format: 35mm
• Resolution: N/A 
• Memory card Slot: N/A  
• Waterproof: Down to 50 feet 

Pros

• Easy to use
• No need to focus 
• Fun lo-fi film aesthetic 

Cons

• Expensive to get film processed 

A waterproof point-and-shoot disposable was a mainstay of pool parties and beach days in the pre-digital era—and we love that they’re still available for underwater shooting. It’s easy to use, shoots 35mm film, and there are sure to be some very cool lo-fi effects that you can get without running your photos through a digital filter. Although it’s certainly more expensive to get film developed these days—we’re extremely glad that the OG underwater camera hasn’t gone out of style. 

Best budget camera: Minolta 48 MP Dual Screen Waterproof Digital Camera

SEE IT

Specs

• Resolution: 48 megapixels
• Sensor size: Full-frame
• Memory card Slot: Micro SD
• Waterproof: Down to 10 feet 

Pros

• Made by trusted brand
• Full-frame sensor
• Face detection
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Limited depth operation

This waterproof Minolta digital camera isn’t rated quite as deep as some of the others in this buying guide, but it does offer a budget-friendly choice from a trusted and established camera brand. It features a full-frame sensor capable of capturing 48-megapixel stills, has a dual-screen design, and features like face and smile detection make it a great tool for underwater selfies at the pool. It can shoot 2.7K/30p video, has a 16x digital zoom, and built-in image stabilization. It’s waterproof down to 10 feet and under $100, making it a steal for capturing high-quality images in the water. 

What to consider when shopping for the best cheap underwater camera

While we always make specific picks, we also like to offer up explanations of common terms and variables you’ll encounter out on the marketplace. Here are some things to consider.

Budget

Cheap is all relative, and the price of a piece of camera gear has a lot to do with the features that a piece of gear might have. The cameras in this buying guide cost anywhere between about $30 to a few hundred dollars, but within that range, you will find cameras that include a lot of different specs. If you are looking for a higher-end underwater digital camera, buying a model that is a few generations old can be a great way to save. Many of these cameras can be found as refurbished models or on the resell market. More budget-friendly underwater cameras can be just fine if you are looking for something that doesn’t need the highest resolution or the longest battery life. Ultimately, when looking for a cheap underwater camera, you should have some idea of what “cheap” means to you. 

Digital vs. Film

Although digital film cameras are probably what come to mind when thinking about underwater cameras, a disposable underwater film camera can provide an extremely fun and budget-friendly way to capture a family vacation or a day out at the beach. Underwater film photos won’t have the same high-resolution quality, and the cameras certainly won’t include image stabilization or macro modes. Still, if you are interested in a retro aesthetic with an affordable price point, an underwater film camera can be a great choice. 

Depth Rating

The most important thing to consider when shopping for an underwater film camera is its depth rating. This rating refers to how deep into the water you can take the camera, and it will still be protected from the elements. If you are planning to take your camera really deep, it’s important to get one that has a rugged build—the deeper you travel into a body of water, the more potential harm you might be doing to that camera, so you will want to make sure your gear is up to the task. Consider the activity that you are hoping to capture underwater and plan accordingly. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best cheap underwater cameras

• Best overall: RICOH WG-6 
• Best for video: GoPro HERO9
• Best for kids: Waterproof Underwater Camera 
• Best film camera: Kodak Weekend Underwater Disposable Camera
• Best budget: Minolta 48 MP Dual Screen Waterproof Digital Camera

To find the best cheap underwater camera for you, it’s important to consider what your plans entail. If your underwater adventures include plans of scuba diving or snorkeling, selecting a camera that can operate at greater depths for longer periods of time is probably the way to go—but it will likely be on the more expensive side. If you are looking for something to bring to a day at the beach or the pool, a more inexpensive option will probably do the job. With so many awesome products on the market, there is no such thing as a “best product”–—but there is probably a product designed to fit your specific needs perfectly. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best cheap underwater cameras for 2023, as chosen by experts appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Adobe Lightroom Classic		SEE IT	Get the most out of your photos with robust adjustments and library tools.
Best for precise edits		Adobe Photoshop		SEE IT	This is the industry standard for image editing, and it’s a well-earned status.
Best budget		Cyberlink 360		SEE IT	It offers a surprisingly robust set of tools for a cheap one-time fee.

There’s no substitute for a good eye, but photo-editing software makes it easy to give your images a few final tweaks before you share them with the world. Whether you are a smartphone shooter, an enthusiast, or a working pro, the right photo-editing program will help refine your images and, in some cases, help you keep your photo archive organized and easy to find. Although smartphone editing apps have become extremely advanced in recent years, having a dedicated piece of photo-editing software for your desktop computer or laptop will give you even more control. With the right piece of software, you will be able to make precision edits to RAW files, remove unwanted elements from the frame and combine multiple images into a single frame. In this guide, we highlight some of the best photo-editing software currently available. 

• Best overall: Adobe Lightroom Classic 
• Best one-time purchase: Capture One Pro
• Best for precise edits: Adobe Photoshop
• Best for smartphones: Adobe Photoshop Express
• Best budget: Cyberlink 360

How we chose the best photo-editing software

When selecting the photo-editing software that appears in this buying guide, we considered programs that could be used on desktop/laptop computers (both Mac and PC), as well as apps that could be used on a smartphone. We also considered how different kinds of photographers need to edit images. It was important to include pieces of software that were good at batching large amounts of images quickly and software for making precision edits when retouching. 

Several editors and writers on the PopSci staff have extensive professional photography experience and history working at Popular Photography magazine and other popular photography-related publications. The photo-editing software featured here was selected through this experience, hands-on experience, and careful consideration of editorial and user reviews. 

Best overall: Adobe Lightroom Classic

SEE IT

Specs

• Features photo organization tools and catalog management tools
• AI-powered editing tools
• Brush, gradient, and masking tools
• Starts at $9.99 per month

Pros

• Offers lens and camera profile corrections
• Built-in presets 
• Doubles as a tool for managing photo catalog 

Cons

• Requires subscription 
• No automatic file backup

Adobe Lightroom Classic snags our pick as best overall photo-editing software due to its intuitive interface, powerful AI-powered editing tools, and the ability to quickly batch-process images. Although the fully cloud-integrated Adobe Lightroom gets more attention in the spotlight than the desktop-only Lightroom Classic, there is a reason that photo editors stick by this tired and true standard and trust it to get the job done. It’s considered an industry standard in many fields of photography, so if you are looking to get hired as a photo editor or photographer, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of this editing program. It doubles as a catalog management tool, and features like tagging and face recognition make it even easier to search through extensive image catalogs.

As an editing tool, Adobe Lightroom Classic features a familiar set of tools. You can adjust exposure, contrast, sharpness, hue and saturation, as well as crop images. Quick edits in the library module allow you to apply presets to images, while more fine-tuned edits can be made in the develop module. Within the develop module, you will find tools to edit image curves, tweak specific colors, or edit in masks. The spot removal tool helps remove small imperfections from your images, although for more substantial retouching, you will probably want to move the photo into Photoshop. 

The GPU-powered program is a little slower than some other batch-editors available on the market, especially if you are working from an older machine and importing massive high-resolution RAW files. However, with the newer M-powered Mac computers (which are also great for video editing), the program runs impressively fast. 

Adobe Lightroom Classic is part of Adobe’s subscription model, and pricing starts at just $9.99 per month. Although some gawk at Adobe’s subscription model, we think it’s well worth the price given the versatility of its regularly updated features and tools like HDR processing and Panorama Stitching that make once-complex editing jobs a breeze.  

Best one-time purchase: Capture One Pro

SEE IT

Specs

• Extremely fast 
• Excellent for RAW conversions
• Layer-editing capabilities
• One-time purchase of $299 or $14.92 per month

Pros

• No-subscription option available 
• Capture One Live means you can share while shooting
• Offers wireless tethering for many cameras 

Cons

• Expensive 
• Lacks facial recognition 

For photographers who dislike Adobe’s subscription-based model, consider Capture One Pro. Although the program offers a monthly subscription, it can also be purchased for use on a desktop computer for $299. However, keep in mind that if you opt for a one-time purchase, you won’t have access to new feature updates.

Capture One is one of the best photo-editing programs for RAW conversions, wireless tethering, and the ability to share images in real-time while you shoot. These features make it a favorite of photographers who work in-studio and want fast access to their shots. The program includes a cataloging system for image organization and batch editing and the added power of being able to edit in layers.

Many studio pros like this software because it excels when it comes to shooting with the camera connected directly to the computer for instant editing access. This is called shooting “tethered.” Capture One also offers many of the creature comforts found in Lightroom, like styles that replace Adobe’s preset system.

Best for precise edits: Adobe Photoshop

SEE IT

Specs

• Extremely versatile
• AI-powered image selection and editing tools
• Ability to edit in layers
• Starts at $9.99 per month

Pros

• Lens profile correction tools
• Good for image blending and advanced retouching
• Features tons of image-manipulation tools

Cons

• Number of options can be overwhelming for newer users
• Subscription-based model

Adobe Photoshop changed the way photographers could edit their images when it was released in 1990 and remains one of the most powerful tools on the market for digital creators. It’s an excellent piece of software for photographers, graphic designers, retouchers, and digital artists who need to make precise edits to images. Recently, the program has integrated AI-powered editing tools that speed up the editing process. In addition to photo editing, it’s a great piece of software for designers, illustrators, and other digital artists. Adobe Photoshop comes packaged with Adobe Lightroom for $9.99 a month—which makes sense given how often the two tools are used together to complete a photo-editing job. 

Managing large photo libraries with Photoshop can be tricky since it relies on a sibling program called Bridge to keep things organized. If you’re dealing with large quantities of images or you don’t need to do really in-depth edits, then Lightroom is likely easier and more efficient than Photoshop for everyday usage.

Best for smartphones: Adobe Photoshop Express

SEE IT

Specs

• Layer-editing capabilities
• Free smartphone app available
• Includes basic retouching tools
• Free app available, $4.99 per month or $34.99 a year for upgraded features

Pros

• User-friendly
• Good for fast edits for social sharing
• Free version available

Cons

• Requires subscription to edit RAW images and advanced features

The free version of Photoshop Express includes a number of helpful editing tools to make basic adjustments, apply filters, and even work in something akin to layers using the “Mix” module. To unlock advanced features, you will need to pay for a monthly subscription, but for most photographers, these kinds of edits make more sense to make with a mouse or trackpad than on your phone—even if it’s an iPhone 14 Max or another model with a larger screen. If you are looking for something basic to give your images a bit of polish before you share them on social media, this is a great starting point. Some of the editing features feel gimmicky and childish, but it also offers robust tweaks if you can get past the unnecessary (in our opinion) options.

Best budget: Cyberlink 360

SEE IT

Specs

• Keyword editing and facial recognition
• Can edit in layers
• Feature pro-image editing tools
• $74.99 one-time license or subscription starting at $3.33 a month or $39.99 annually

Pros

• Non-subscription pricing available 
• Affordable
• User-friendly interface

Cons

• Not widely used by industry pros
• Limited RAW image file support

This inexpensive alternative to Adobe’s editing programs still offers up a number of pro-level editing tools. It functions a bit like a hybrid of Adobe Lightroom Classic and Adobe Photoshop by offering catalog organization and batch processing features and several tools for more precise editing. It can be purchased as a one-time lifetime license for $74.99 or as a subscription for as little as $3.33 a month or $39.99 for an annual subscription. Professionals do not widely use it, and updates for RAW image support do tend to roll out a bit slowly, so if you are working with a brand new camera or on-site editing for someone who is, it might not be ideal. But if you are someone with older equipment who is primarily making edits for themselves, the low-cost software is easy to use and features a number of fun templates for photographers looking to dabble in graphic design. 

FAQs 

Final thoughts on the best photo-editing software 

• Best overall: Adobe Lightroom Classic 
• Best one-time purchase: Capture One Pro 
• Best for precise edits: Adobe Photoshop 
• Best for smartphones: Adobe Photoshop Express
• Best budget: Cyberlink 360

When selecting the best photo-editing software, it’s important to consider what you will be shooting, how many images you will be shooting, and the adjustments you will make to your images. If you want to break into the photo industry full-time, an industry-standard program like Lightroom or Capture One will be extremely useful in landing jobs. If you are editing images just for yourself, it’s okay to stick with an inexpensive app or program that is more geared toward photo enthusiasts for the time being. Ultimately photographers use a wide variety of programs to edit their images, and it’s not unusual for a shot to pass through a few different programs before it’s ready to be shared.  

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best photo-editing software for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

You know how it goes on the internet: If there’s no video of something, it basically didn’t happen. However, you’ll never run into that problem again if you jump on this absurd GoPro deal at Amazon right now. You can currently snag a GoPro Hero11 Mini for just $199. That’s a full $100 off the normal $299 price tag of one of the best action cameras.

GoPro Hero11 Mini Black $199 (Was $299)

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As the name suggests, this is essentially a miniature version of the GoPro Hero11 Black flagship action camera—an essential accessory if you’re an athlete, adventurer, or parent of one that wants to document thrills and spills. The biggest difference here is that the Mini doesn’t have any built-in screens for composing shots or navigating menus. Instead, you connect the camera to your phone and preview your shot or change your settings that way. Old-school GoPro cameras worked similarly, and it’s really not a hindrance once you get everything set up.

Other than that, this is basically the same camera as the much more expensive GoPro Hero11 Black flagship camera (and there’s an Amazon sale on the excellent, screen-equipped Hero11 Black below if that is a dealbreaker for you). The Mini (also available at Best Buy if that’s your preferred retailer) shoots up to 5.3K video with GoPro’s impressive Hypersmooth 5.0 technology. Built-in mounts make it super versatile and easy to attach to just about anything. Plus, it’s totally waterproof down to 33 feet, so it’s definitely not afraid of water. The whole camera weighs just 4.7 ounces, so you won’t feel it too much when you strap it to your chest and shred gnar (or chase your kid around the playground).

More GoPro deals (and one drone deal for those sweeping aerial shots)

• GoPro Hero11 Black Creator Edition $599 (was $699)
• GoPro Hero11 Black $349 (was $499)
• GoPro – HERO9 Black 5K and 20 MP Streaming Action Camera $249 (was $349)
• Vantop – Snaptain P30 GPS Drone with Remote Controller $254 (was $299)

The post Get the GoPro Hero11 Mini Black for just $200 right now at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Are you searching for the perfect gift for the adventurer-dad in your life? Allow them to experience the ultimate fusion of telescope and digital camcorder capabilities with the HD Digital Camera Binoculars. These advanced binoculars are now on sale for only $121.99, just in time for Father’s Day.

This remarkable gadget lets users capture indoor and outdoor moments with great precision and detail, and just in time for Father’s Day, you can gift your dad these fantastic binoculars for only $121.99 (reg. $199). You’ll have to act fast, though, as they must be ordered no later than June 5 to ensure on-time delivery by the holiday.

With its 12X magnification and exceptional focus adjustment, these HD binoculars excel at recording high-quality videos and capturing stunning photographs. These binoculars are ideal for obtaining unforgettable memories, whether your dad’s camping, bird-watching, traveling, or engaging in various activities like traveling.

Dad can capture high-quality content in any environment with the HD Digital Camera Binoculars, which boast impressive video resolutions of 1440x1080p and 1280x720p and image resolutions ranging from 1.3M to 5M. Equipped with a premium full glass HD lens, this device records videos at a smooth 30 frames per second in 1080p, while its decisive autofocus ensures stunning 720p resolution at 60 frames per second. 

Thanks to its waterproof, anti-dust, anti-fog, and anti-shock design, Dad can confidently take this gadget anywhere, regardless of the weather conditions. And with a weight of 15.8oz, these compact binoculars can easily be stowed in Dad’s pant pocket, jacket, or bag.

The HD binoculars offer a range of additional features, including a 750mAh battery, support for JPG and AVI formats, an anti-reflective coating that enhances light transmission and prevents water filtration, a convenient 2″ LCD screen, and much more. Thanks to its budget-friendly pricing, you can gift your dad professional-quality video content without breaking the bank.

Make your dad’s day this holiday and upgrade how he records his next outdoor adventure.

Give Dad the HD Digital Camera Binoculars for just $121.99 (reg. $199) this Father’s Day. Hurry, June 5 is the last day to order to ensure on-time delivery.

Prices subject to change.

The post These HD digital camera binoculars are now only $122 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Sennheiser MKH 416		SEE IT	Professional sonics and build capture the sound and fury of whatever you’re doing, wherever you are.
Best compact		Rode NTG3B		SEE IT	A relatively moderate price tag but wide frequency response means this giant sound from a small package.
Best for DSLR		Rode VideoMic Pro+		SEE IT	Able to run off of AA batteries, with a build that belies its affordable price tag, this is a perfect beginner mic.

Shotgun mics are flexible tools for capturing natural, focused sound for film and television, environmental recordings, sporting and live events, vlogs, or voice-overs. Their narrow pickup pattern rejects noise from the sides and, to a certain extent, the back, keeping the focus on your subject. The best shotgun mics are light enough to mount on a camera or carry on a boom pole all day and, in many cases, built with enough durability to survive the rough-and-tumble life of location recording. 

Plenty of times, you’re on the street or live streaming and don’t have the luxury of individually miking people, or you’re filming a scene where you can’t have a visible lavalier mic. That’s why you’ll find top-notch shotgun mics throughout the professional world—often accompanied by professional-level prices. But shotguns have been around for a while, and these ubiquitous tools of the trade are often inexpensive enough that even beginners and budget-minded users can add quality equipment to their kit bags. 

With every reputable—and less than reputable—microphone manufacturer producing them, it’s sometimes hard to figure out which shotgun mics deliver on their promise of great sound. So to help you out, we’ve rounded up a list of tips, advice, and the best shotgun mics.  

• Best overall: Sennheiser MKH 416
• Best compact: Rode NTG3B
• Best for DSLR: Rode VideoMic Pro+
• Best for most situations: Shure VP89M
• Best professional: Neumann KMR 81 i
• Best mini: Rode VideoMicro II
• Premium pick: Schoeps CMIT 5
• Best budget: Audio-Technica AT897

How we chose the best shotgun mics

We based our selection of the best shotgun mics on our own personal experience in the film, TV, and professional audio worlds, as well as conversations with other professional audio engineers and filmmakers, experts at equipment rental houses, and musicians. We consulted specialty review sites, industry trade magazines, and blogs, and read through the online impressions of typical users to see if performance typically matched a mic’s promise. In evaluating our selections, we prioritized sound quality and looked at construction (including moisture resistance), price, size, and how each microphone is powered.

The best shotgun mics: Reviews & Recommendations

Shotgun mics are ideal for recording dialogue on a movie set, the action on the court at a basketball game, or animals out in nature. It’s important to note that no shotguns will reject all off-axis sound. But they do an excellent job of keeping the focus on your subject.

Best overall: Sennheiser MKH 416

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 6.17 ounces
• Length: 9.84 inches
• Frequency response: 40 Hz – 20 kHz

Pros

• Wide frequency response for clear, natural sound
• Tight polar pattern isolates sound sources
• Moisture resistant

Cons

• Expensive

Sennheiser’s name repeatedly pops up when discussing the best microphones, and the venerable German manufacturer doesn’t slack off with their flagship MKH 416 shotgun mic. This professional-grade piece of kit has a wide 40-20,000 Hz frequency response, with a hyper-cardioid polar pattern at the low to mid frequencies that does an excellent job of rejecting off-axis sounds while zeroing in on the dialogue and other mid-frequency sources.

The shotgun works great indoors or out across various environments, thanks to an RF condenser design that’s highly moisture-resistant. And the MKH 416’s compact and light construction makes it easy to mount the mic on a boom pole without sacrificing maneuverability or tiring out your operator.

Make no mistake; you can get excellent shotgun mics for less money. But as good as they are, none provide the combined level of sonic quality, robust construction, and all-around utility of the MKH 416.

Best compact: Rode NTG3B

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 5.75 ounces
• Length: 10.4 inches
• Frequency response: 40 Hz – 20 kHz

Pros

• Wide frequency response for natural sound
• Moisture resistant 
• Easy to mount on a camera or boom

Cons

• Slightly thinner sounding

Rode makes excellent mics. And thanks to its relatively moderate price tag, the NTG3B represents a common first step into the world of high-quality microphones. But thanks to its wide, natural 40-20,000 Hz frequency response and excellent build quality, it’s also the last stop for many pro and semi-pro indie filmmakers, documentarians, broadcast journalists, podcasters, and in-house audio-video teams.

It has excellent off-axis rejection, and its RF condenser technology protects it from moderate moisture. It isn’t quite as sensitive or directional as our top pick, Sennheiser’s MKH 416, but it usually costs about $300 less—and includes a handy metal case. For all but the most demanding users, that is often worth the trade-off. It’s still not what we’d consider “budget-priced,” but you definitely get what you pay for in terms of sonic integrity and build. 

Best for DSLR: Rode VideoMic Pro+

SEE IT

Specs

• Weight: 4.3 ounces
• Length: 6.69 inches
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Pros

• Built-in shockmount resists handling noise
• Extremely compact design
• Multiple power options
• 3.5mm TRS connectors

Cons

• No XLR connectivity
• Off-axis rejection could be better

Rode designed this compact and handy shotgun mic with mobile journalists, vloggers, and run-and-gun shooters in mind. It connects to cameras or audio recorders via a 3.5mm TRS cable and features an integrated shockmount that protects it from handling noise. The VideoMic Pro+ also has a built-in cold-shoe mount—so no extra arms or connectors are needed to mount it on your camera. 

The mic can be tuned to handle different recording environments, with buttons providing low-cut filters at 75 Hz or 150 Hz. You can also boost the frequency at 7 kHz if things start sounding a bit muddy. The mic has adjustable gain, as well, to help compensate for very loud or soft sounds. 

The VideoMic Pro+ won’t accept phantom power, but it does allow you to use AA batteries, Rode’s rechargeable battery, or an external battery that can connect via USB. 

With a shorter barrel, this shotgun mic sometimes has trouble rejecting off-axis sounds, especially in environments with large and noisy crowds. But if you want to keep your kit low-profile and nimble, this trade-off might be worth it.

Premium pick: Schoeps CMIT 5

SEE IT

Specs 

• Weight: 3.35 ounces
• Length: 9.88 inches
• Frequency response: 40 Hz – 20 kHz

Pros

• Natural sound
• Three switchable filters
• Shielded against electronic interference
• Compact design

Cons 

• Very expensive.
• Sensitive to environmental issues

Shoeps makes some of the best-sounding microphones in the business, and the CMIT 5 is no exception. It has a frequency response of 40-20,000 Hz tuned to provide flat, transparent, natural audio. But it also has three filters in case some additional acoustic sculpting is required: increase vocal clarity with a 5 dB boost at 10 Hz; roll off some bass at 300 Hz to offset proximity effect; or do a steep cut below 80 Hz to help wrangle handling-noise from a mic boom. It’s designed to perform best when paired with a high-gain mic preamp and is ideal for high-end applications like capturing dialogue, foley work, sound effects, or recording nuanced instruments.

However, Schoeps mics are some of the most sensitive to environmental issues like humidity. You don’t want to bring the CMIT 5 into the jungle or shoot down in Florida outside of an environmentally controlled building. This microphone is for the studio, concert hall, or closed set.

Remember that the best of the best comes with a high price tag, and the Schoeps CMIT 5 might be more microphone than many people outside the professional field need. 

Most versatile: Shure VP89M

SEE IT

Specs 

• Weight: 4.9 ounces
• Length: 9.41 inches (Capsule), 4.02 inches (Preamp)
• Frequency response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz

Pros

• Unique modular capsule design
• Excellent sound quality
• Switchable low-cut filter
• Rugged yet lightweight build quality

Cons

• Requires 11 to 52 VDC phantom power

If you record in various situations, you typically need multiple shotgun mics to suit each scenario. But the Shure VP89M offers a unique modular design with interchangeable capsules, so you can stick with one mic even across indoor or outdoor applications. This version has a medium capsule, but you can also purchase short and long capsules to round out your kit. 

Shure built this mic around a Class-A transformerless preamplifier. It features a switchable low-cut filter to assist with less-than-desirable bass frequencies. The Medium capsule provides a narrow 50-degree acceptance angle, while the Long capsule offers a narrower angle, and the Short is wider. The mic produces a clean and natural sound that is very well-balanced. And it can easily pick up sound from up to 10 feet away, making it a worthy long-range mic option.

The Shure VP89M features a standard XLR 3-pin output. The aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction adds to its durability but keeps the mic lightweight, making it easier to use for long periods. And it can operate in a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. Though you must purchase the different capsules separately, this comes with a windscreen and carrying case. 

Best professional: Neumann KMR 81 i

SEE IT

Specs 

• Weight: 5 ounces
• Length: 8.9 inches
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Pros

• Warm, clear sound
• Works in a variety of situations
• Low sensitivity to wind and handling noise
• Compact enough to mount on a camera

Cons

• Expensive

Neumann makes some of the best microphones, and the KMR 81 i is no exception. It has a steep price tag, but you get a lot for that high price. It is a super-cardioid mic and uses a pressure gradient transducer and an interference tube depending on the wavelength of the frequency for versatile use. 

The Neumann KMR 81 i is compact and light enough to be used on a camera for handheld shooting. Though the mic is specifically designed for film and TV applications, it also works well for recording individual musicians, orchestras, and more. The limited off-axis coloration keeps the sound consistent even if the subject is moving around. 

Most importantly, the KMR 81 i produces a high-quality, clear, warm sound. The 90-degree recording angle picks up just the right amount of sound. It offers switches to control a 200Hz low-cut filter and a -10dB pad to reduce traffic and wind noises. It also comes with a windscreen for even better results when outdoors. You’ll also get a leather carrying case and a one-year warranty.

Best mini: Rode VideoMicro II

SEE IT

Specs 

• Weight: 1.4 ounces
• Length: 3.1 inches
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz

Pros

• Very compact and lightweight
• Affordable
• Straightforward and easy to use
• Excellent sound quality

Cons

• Only supports 3.5mm analog output

The Rode VideoMicro II, is, as the name suggests, tiny. At only 3.1 inches long and weight 1.4 ounces, it’s smaller than just about everything out there. This small shotgun mic is ideal for beginners getting into filmmaking or vlogging, partly because of its compact size. It’s also very simple to use. You mount it to your camera’s hot shoe, plug in the 3.5mm TRS cable, and you are good to go. It can even connect to a smartphone or tablet should you want to.

The VideoMicro II is also reasonably priced, under $100. But, despite the budget-friendly price, it produces quality sound. It comes with both foam and furry windshields, which do an excellent job of filtering out background noise. And Rode’s built-in HELIX isolation mount system keeps noise from any knocks and bumps down to a minimum. 

The mic has no physical controls, so you are more limited than when using more expensive models. But it only draws a tiny bit of power from your camera, so you won’t have to cut recordings short to charge back up. The short form factor even makes it feasible to use on gimbals, making it an ideal microphone choice for run-and-gun videographers and vloggers.

Best budget: Audio-Technica AT897

SEE IT

Specs 

• Weight: 5.11 ounces
• Length: 10.98 inches
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Pros

• Inexpensive
• 80 Hz low-cut switch
• Lightweight
• Battery and phantom powered

Cons

• Susceptible to moisture
• Slightly brittle sounding 

With microphones, you often get what you pay for. But Audio-Technica’s AT897 delivers high-quality results while still costing less than $250. Its wide 20-20,000 Hz frequency response, with a switchable roll-off at 80 Hz, allows the mic to capture very natural sound. That said, the response across all those frequencies could be flatter, and you can expect some brittleness in the higher end that you won’t find on more professional-grade mics. Off-axis sound rejection is good but not great.

The AT897 is built like a tank, and while I wouldn’t suggest tossing it onto concrete or driving over it with a truck, it’ll generally survive the mishaps you’re likely to encounter when recording on location or out in nature. However, it’s susceptible to moisture and high humidity, so keep an eye on the weather if you’re using it outdoors. 

A nice bonus: This mic can run off an AA battery, which is particularly handy when the budget doesn’t allow for recorders or cameras that supply phantom power—for instance, in a classroom. Despite some shortcomings, this is an excellent shotgun microphone for beginners who want to develop their technique, schools, or anyone operating under a tight budget while still wanting plenty of features and quality. 

Things to consider before buying the best shotgun mics

Microphones have polar, or response, patterns, which describe how they “hear” sound sources depending on where they’re placed. A shotgun microphone is a type of mic with a very narrow, front-facing response known as a “supercardioid” pattern. This means the mic mostly picks up sound from whatever you point it at while rejecting sound from the sides and, to a lesser extent, the back.

Frequency response

Frequency response is measured in Hertz (Hz) and describes how well the microphone captures sound at different frequencies. Shotgun microphones tend to have very wide, flat responses—that is, they pick up a range of frequencies more or less equally well—to better represent what the human ear can hear. They’re often tuned a bit to help emphasize dialogue and other mid-range frequencies. 

Condenser vs. dynamic microphones

There are two main types of microphones: condenser mics and dynamic mics. In very basic terms, microphones use diaphragms that vibrate when hit by sound waves. These vibrations generate electronic impulses that can be recorded or converted directly back into sound. Condenser mics have very thin diaphragms sensitive to subtle, quiet, nuanced sounds. But they’re more delicate and susceptible to heavy handling and moisture.

Dynamic mics, with their thicker diaphragms, aren’t as good with nuance but do very well when blasted with loud noises. They’re also robust and can survive a lot of abuse. (Singers usually use dynamic mics on stage; if you’ve ever been to a punk show, you’ve seen the damage they can withstand.) 

Because shotguns are meant to capture even whispered dialogue, they’re almost always condenser mics. Some mics—like those in Sennheiser’s MKH series—use RF condensers in their capsules versus AF condensers, which do a better job of resisting humidity. But it’s important to understand the options and even test a mic to ensure you get the right one for the job at hand.

Length

Shotgun mics come in various lengths, from a compact 3 inches or 4 inches to more than one-foot long. Consider how you’ll use the mic when deciding whether you want a compact one. If you’re mounting it on a camera, a smaller profile makes the mic lighter and much more maneuverable. Longer shotguns tend to have tighter polar patterns; they’re great when recording concerts or sporting events, and you want to minimize the overwhelming crowd noise. But put one on a camera, and you’re liable to poke someone’s eye out!   

Power

Like all condenser mics, shotguns require some power source. They usually rely on 48v phantom power delivered from a recording device, mixer, or camera. But some also have an option of using an AA battery, which can be a lifesaver if you find yourself in a situation where phantom power isn’t available. (For instance, some wireless rigs don’t deliver power themselves, so pick up and power up those rechargeable batteries.)

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best shotgun mics

• Best overall: Sennheiser MKH 416
• Best compact: Rode NTG3B
• Best for DSLR: Rode VideoMic Pro+
• Premium pick: Schoeps CMIT 5’
• Most versatile: Shure VP89M
• Best professional: Neumann KMR 81 i
• Best mini: Rode VideoMicro II
• Best budget: Audio-Technica AT897

If you’re shopping for a shotgun microphone, you’ve got a lot of options—that’s the good news. Manufacturers like Sennheiser and Rode make mics at different prices that all deliver excellent audio. The trick is figuring out which mic suits your needs best without accidentally overspending. It’s not easy—and that’s the bad news. Navigating all these microphones takes time and careful research. It also helps to use the mics before you buy one so you can tell from first-hand experience if it’s right for you.

That said, our own experience working with these mics professionally takes us back, time and again, to the classic Sennheiser MKH 416. It’s hard to beat the sound quality, which is simply excellent. But if you can’t quite afford one, Rode’s NTG3B, our pick for the best compact shotgun mic, is an excellent second choice. It sounds almost as good and has the same resistance to humidity. I’ve used both in professional settings and never had any complaints. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Best Overall		HP F660		SEE IT	Loop recording, a wide angle lens, and G-Shock sensor are just some of the features of this easily installed option.
Best 2-Channel		Ssontong Dash Cam		SEE IT	Including a backup cam with guidelines and a sensitive G-Sensor, this bundle (also available with four channels) offers a full value.
Best Parking Mode		Vantrue N1 Pro		SEE IT	Superior night vision, quality collision and motion detection, plus battery protection help make sure your car is monitored even in the dark.

For years, dash cams for cars have been a great way to catch hit-and-run automobile accidents, staged pedestrian accident scams, and even Russian meteor showers. For a long time, having this ability to monitor what really happens on the exterior of your car, and being able to carefully review the data after the fact, has seemed like a luxury. It was something you might have appreciated but didn’t necessarily seem like something that’d be worth the extra buck to put in your car. But now, the year is 2022 and the best dash cams under $100 that we’ve collected are actually solid, working units ready to help you out in a pinch. 

• Best overall: HP F650
• Best 2-channel: Ssontong Dash Cam
• Best parking mode: Vantrue N1 Pro
• Best heat handling: REXING V1
• Best budget: Angel Case Dash Cam

How we selected the best dash cams under $100

Selecting budget products can always be a bit tricky due to manufacturer shortcuts, inferior hardware, and the possibility of outright fraud. Fortunately, for dash cams, there are still high-quality products in the budget range. To find the best of the best, we scoured dash cam reviews from critics and real-world users, combining these with peer suggestions to select dash cams that boasted good specs but also provided intensive value for the cost. Highlighting cams across the full price spectrum—from the REXING V1 at just under $100 before tax to the Angel Case Dash Cam sitting at under $40—was also made a priority. In the end, we were able to compile a list of dash cams that you will be able to select something from.

The best dash cams under $100: Reviews & Recommendations

The following dash cams provide quality in a variety of different situations for people of all budgets. While none are particularly specialized, it is quite incredible that we were able to find one that can handle many channels well, another one that handles parking mode and night vision well, and yet another one that can handle fairly extreme temperatures, all on one budget list. As a result, it is our firm belief that you’ll be able to find something worthy of both your dash and your wallet from the following selections.

Best overall: HP F650

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Why it made the cut: This is a quick installation product that will get you started and dash cam ready within minutes.

Specs

• Storage: 32GB MicroSD
• Viewing angle: 150 degrees
• Resolution: 1080P front

Pros

• Warning system
• Low effort installation
• Loop recording with event highlights
• Locks video clips when an accident occurs

Cons

• No rear-facing camera

The F650 is a dash cam from your favorite laptop and printer maker, HP. It has a lot of features built-in that you will certainly want, but probably weren’t necessarily expecting to come together in one budget model. The F650 has simple, stick-on installation, and smart loop recording that locks files around the time of collisions. The dash cam’s 150 degree field of view means it’ll capture view of four lanes of traffic.

If you get into an accident, the F650’s G-Shock sensor will trigger, which will lock any video it records to prevent it from being overwritten. This is handy if you need to present evidence to the police several days after the incident occurs. This dash cam records video onto a MicroSD card, and while HP doesn’t include one in the box, you can get a 32GB card for well under $10.

It goes without saying that the HP F650 tops our list due to its insane value for the cost and its feature-packed nature. Like a lot of HP products, the F650 isn’t the best possible model out there but is instead an affordable product that tries its best to provide value to average customers. We wish it had a rear-facing camera to record video of what’s happening in your vehicle, but that isn’t a dealbreaker considering its sub $50 price.

Best 2-channel: Ssontong Dash Cam

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Why it made the cut: The Ssontong Dash Cam comes with a fully featured backup cam, all for under $50.

Specs

• Storage: 32GB SD
• Angle of view: 170 degrees front / 140 degrees rear
• Resolution: 1080P front / 720P rear

Pros

• Includes backup cam with guidelines
• Sensitive G-Sensor
• Full value for price
• Bundles available for four channels

Cons

• Low angle of view rear cam

While the HP F660G has a second cam, the Ssontong’s second channel cam acts as a full backup camera with guidelines and everything. While the rear cam isn’t quite up to the standards of a backup cam proper (it has a low 140-degree angle of view), you are also getting it as part of a complete system for under $100. Note, too, that the Ssontong can become a four-channel system and has bundle deals available if you wish to expand the system to be larger.

The Ssontong comes alive when you aren’t driving quickly via the G-Sensor, which rapidly detects vibrations. Even small wiggles, such as from a shut trunk or when you go back into your car to retrieve the bag you left in the back, will trigger it into full recording mode.

Overall, the Ssontong takes the throne for low-budget multi-channel dash cams. Even if you upgrade to include more channels, which might take you over $100, you’re still getting discounts and good deals at every corner. Ultimately, the Ssontong is a solid choice worthy of its dollar value.

Best parking mode: Vantrue N1 Pro

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Why it made the cut: The Vantrue N1 Pro works wonders at night, making its 24-hour parking mode worth every dollar.

Specs

• Storage: Up to 256GB MicroSD (not included)
• Angle of view: 160 degrees
• Resolution: 1080P 

Pros

• Superior night vision
• Quality collision AND motion detection
• Battery protection

Cons

• Front cam only

The Vantrue N1 is a seemingly standard forward-facing dash cam but—much like vampires, werewolves, and teenagers—doesn’t begin to show its real power until night falls. Again, it’s not bad during the day with the standard 1080P resolution, relatively good 160-degree angle of view, and high storage capacity. You can even get GPS functionality for around $20 more if you buy the N1 Pro add-on, which will put the total purchase right around the $100 mark. However, what you really want to see is how it functions at night.

When engaged in parking mode, you have a couple of modes to explore. First, there is collision-detection mode, which requires no extra steps to use. When your car is hit during parking mode, your Vantrue N1 camera will come alive and take a quick 20-second video for you to review later. The other option is a slightly more complex motion-detection mode, which requires a bit of wiring so the cam has access to your car’s battery. Your battery is protected from draining completely even while this mode is engaged due to battery protection mechanisms.

All of these great parking features go hand-in-hand with the “SONY Sensor.” This night vision brand is well-received by customers and actually works pretty well in a variety of environments. Combined with the recording modes above, you’re likely to have a good parking-mode experience with Vantrue. If it only had an included rear cam, it’d be just about perfect.

Best heat handling: REXING V1

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Why it made the cut: If you’ve ever worried about heat (or cold) affecting a dash cam, you can relax with the REXING V1.

Specs

• Storage: Up to 256GB MicroSD (not included)
• Temperature range: -20 degrees to 176 degrees Fahrenheit
• Angle of view: 170 degrees