Discover truly great video cameras for filmmakers in every price range. From affordable models to professional gear – this guide helps you find the perfect camera for your creative vision.
Thanks to more affordable camera bodies and lenses and the rise of social media filmmaking, creating and professionally crafting videos is easier than ever today. If you are looking for the best video camera for your budget this year, below you will find our top-rated cameras, which we believe are all great video cameras for filmmakers in 2025.
Best Entry-Level Video Camera 2025
The Sony ZVE10 and ZVE10 II are the two best entry-level cameras in 2025 under $1,000. They allow lens interchangeability and practically everything you would do with a normal professional camera, except you don't have a dedicated viewfinder and the body is a bit less grippy. Despite these minor drawbacks, both are great video cameras for beginners just starting out in the film industry.
The newer model can even record 4K videos at up to 60 frames per second, which is very demanding for a small camera. Compared to the previous model, it also offers significantly improved AI-based subject tracking and improved low-light performance thanks to a better sensor.
The newer model also offers better heat management for longer 4K recording sessions. However, if you have a limited budget, you should opt for the older model, which you can find on Amazon for $600 or less. Both models are a good choice for under $1,000. However, note that neither model has built-in image stabilization. So these models may not be suitable for outdoor shooting. However, they are excellent for indoor shooting with a tripod.
Best Mid-Range Video Camera 2025
In the mid-range segment, the Panasonic Lumix GH6 is an excellent option this year, as it offers a lot of performance even for a mid-range camera. The camera features a Micro Four Thirds lens that allows recording at resolutions up to 5.7K at 60 fps and the popular 4K video resolution at up to 120 fps. That's solid performance and meets most of today's film market requirements.
Recording is done in internal 10-bit 4:2:2 format and is stable thanks to the integrated advanced stabilization technology. The only downside is the smaller sensor, which struggles a bit in low light. The camera costs about $2,000 and is best suited for music videos, documentaries, and short social media videos.
Other honorable mentions are the Canon EOS R7 and the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2; both are also excellent mid-range video cameras for films.
Best high-tier video camera 2025
We review two cameras here, one expensive and one very expensive. The first is the Sony FX3, which costs just under $4,000. It is a mirrorless camera with the specifications of a full-frame camera. Its camera sensor allows recording up to 4K resolution and a frame rate of 120 frames per second in 10-bit 4:2:2 format. You also get Sony's S-Cinetone and S-Log3, so you can perfectly control your recordings.
Additionally, professional features such as dual card slots and an internal cooling system are available, making this camera an extremely attractive option for professionals. If you have more money to spare, the Canon EOS C500 Mark II is the absolute best and most expensive camera on our list. It records 5.9K Cinema RAW Light videos with a true cinematic look as known from films and features an excellent autofocus system. In short: The best you can buy for money in 2025.
Best camera lens for films 2025
None of the cameras mentioned above can give your videos a truly cinematic and professional look if their lenses do not match their specifications. Investing in lenses is essential for a camera body. One such lens that fits exactly with the cameras mentioned above is the SIRUI Saturn lens series.
The lens series is available in the most common focal lengths in the film industry and features state-of-the-art optics for cinematic effects in your videos. The anamorphic optics provide true widescreen (1.6x squeeze) with an aspect ratio of 2.4:1 while preserving details. The T2.9 aperture lens is bright enough for most filming conditions and delivers a smooth, cinematic bokeh. An essential lens for the best camera bodies for films.
Conclusion:
The above hardware selection offers great video cameras for films in 2025 and every budget. To fully unlock the potential of these cameras, we recommend the SIRUI Saturn lens series, which optimizes the image experience with its superior optics.
