Best 4K camera 2021: Top 12 cameras for shooting 4K movies

(Image credit: Future)

Want to know which is the best 4K camera 2021? Whether it's movies you want to make or high-resolution video content you want to create, the perfect 4K camera for you is sure to be on our list.

The best 4K cameras cover a wide spectrum. There are different sizes, specifications and price ranges to consider. With 4K now a very common spec, you'll find models ranging from beginner-friendly and highly portable mirrorless models to pro-level models that have been certified good enough for Netflix.

If all of this sounds a bit overwhelming, don't worry, we've tested all the best 4K cameras in 2021 to help you find the best one for your budget and needs. .

And if budget is your primary concern, you might consider postponing any purchases until Amazon.

Prime Day 2021

. We expect plenty of great discounts from many manufacturers, including those with a penchant for 4K video.

Choosing the best 4K camera is not always an easy task. You should be aware of a number of factors. While this is a roundup of 4K cameras, 4K itself is no longer the top spec it once was. We are now seeing an increasing number of models capable of shooting up to 8K. The average person might not need that kind of resolve, but it depends on the type of work you do. Most avid videographers will likely find aspects other than resolution more important.

One of these factors is the high frame rate, which you will need to create smooth video. The best 4K cameras can record at 60 fps or more, and many of them give you the option of lowering the resolution to shoot at 120 fps for slow-motion footage as well.

Other factors to consider may depend on your skill level, and how you shoot your videos. Image stabilization is a must if you're trying to capture a b-roll handheld, but it's less of an issue if you're already using a gimbal. Autofocus tracking is handy for enthusiasts upgrading, but anyone used to using manual tracking may find it less beneficial.

A large sensor is ideal for those who like to shoot in low light conditions, while the physical camera controls are also worth considering. Easy-to-reach controls, a tilting touchscreen and an ergonomic handle are all useful tools.

Let's not forget the accessories either. Especially important for videographers, many of the best 4K cameras include ports for connecting external microphones and headphones, but those requiring specific peripherals, such as a battery grip or an accessory shoe mount, be sure check compatibility before purchasing.

Almost all of the best 4K cameras support log profiles, such as V-Log, giving lead videographers the ability to adjust color grading in post-production. Higher-end models can also record 10-bit video internally, resulting in greater color depth, but with the trade-off of larger file sizes.

Our list below has everything every amateur videographer or experienced enthusiast might be looking for. There's something for every skill level and expectation, so you're almost certain to find one that's right for you.

We picked the Sony A7S II as our current pick for the best 4K camera around. This full-frame model offers fantastic low-light capability, a fully articulating touchscreen, and 4K recording at up to 120fps. We were also very impressed with the recent announcement of the

Panasonic GH5 II

, as well as the announcement of the development of the Panasonic GH6. A long-time favorite of video creators, these cameras could be the cameras to reinvigorate the Micro Four Thirds market.

However, there are many other models that might suit you better. Whether it's because they're smaller, cheaper, or more powerful, the list below has the best 4K cameras from video stalwarts Panasonic and Sony, as well as some very compelling alternatives like Nikon, Fujifilm, and the brand. Blackmagic niche.

The best 4K cameras 2021 at a glance:

Sony A7S III

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K

Panasonic Lumix S1H

Panasonic Lumix GH5S

Panasonic Lumix GH5

Panasonic Lumix S5

Fujifilm X-T4 p>

Canon EOS-R5

Sony A6400

Panasonic Lumix G9

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

Best 4K cameras in 2021:

(Image credit: Future)

1.Sony A7S III

A superb camera designed for 4K shooting

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

full size

Resolution:

12.1MP

Goal:

Sony E p>

Viewfinder:

9.44MP EVF

Monitor:

1.44m dot articulated screen

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

10fps

Movies:

4K at 120fps

User level:

Intermediate/expert p>

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Reasons to buy

+

Fantastic low light capability

+

+

Good autonomy

Reasons to avoid

-

Dear< /p>

-

Less well suited for photos

The Sony A7S III is almost certainly the best mirrorless camera you can buy right now. It keeps resolution low and limits output to 4K (as opposed to the 6K/8K capabilities of some other models), with ambitions to be the best 4K camera money can buy.

As well as stunning output, up to 120fps for super smooth recording, there are plenty of other highlights on offer here as well. It's possible to capture 16-bit raw data via HDMI (plus a full-size HDMI port), an incredibly high-resolution viewfinder, and a fully articulating display with an improved touchscreen interface.

Videographers will also benefit from other ports such as a headphone and microphone jack, compatibility with Sony's XLR-K3M hot shoe accessory, for up to four audio inputs.

It's an expensive camera, make no mistake about it, but if you want something that does the job extremely well - we don't think you can do better than this.

Read our in-depth review

Sony A7S III

(Image credit: Future)

2. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro

A compact and versatile videography tool for enthusiasts

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

Super 35

Resolution:

N / A

Goal:

Active EF mount

Viewfinder:

Screen optional

:

5.0-inch, 2037k-dot tilting touchscreen

N / A

Movies:

6K at 50fps

User level:

Enthusiast/Expert

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Reasons to buy

+

Fantastic image quality

+

Huge and bright tilting screen p>

Reasons to avoid

-

Not for beginners

-

No real freeze frame capabilities

Its 6K sensor is the same as before, which means you still get outstanding 6K images at up to 50 frames per second. Super 35 format is smaller than full frame, but large enough to easily handle low-light situations, while built-in ND filters let you shoot in bright sunlight with wide apertures. Additionally, the wide range of available formats, profiles and resolutions makes the 6K Pro a perfectly flexible camera for editors.

That said, this is clearly not a camera for casual users: its controls may be simple, but there aren't any. image stabilization, no tracking autofocus and photo performance remains rudimentary. But as the first professional video camera, the 6K Pro is a fantastic package for the price, with superb image quality and relative affordability, making it one of the most well-rounded options for enthusiasts.

Read our in-depth p>

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro Review

2. Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K

The look of the 90s, but equipped with the latest technology

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

Micro Four Thirds

Resolution:

N / A

Goal:

Micro Four Thirds

Viewfinder:

N / A

Monitor:

5.0 inch touch screen

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

N / A

Movies:

4K at 60fps

User level:

Expert

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339 Amazon customer reviews

☆

☆

☆

☆

☆

Reasons to buy

+

Excellent 4K video capture

+

Huge, crisp screen

Reasons to avoid

-

Low battery life

-

No articulated screen

If you want an affordable camera for shooting 4K video, then this is as good as it gets right now. Blackmagic's Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is designed for filmmakers through and through - don't buy this if you're also looking to take photos.

Based on a Micro Four Thirds sensor and lens mount, it features a huge 5.0-inch touchscreen, it surpasses other MFT shooters from a video-centric operational standpoint. The range of onboard connections is also best in class, and the fact that there's a dual card slot trumps much more expensive cameras like the EOS R.

That's not to forget the decent onboard audio recording capabilities and of course, the sweetener of $299 worth of software - a license for DaVinci Resolve Studio is truly a gift that keeps on giving.

Last but not least, its fundamental 4K video quality takes on much more expensive cameras and, when you know how to work it, handles noise better than some full-frame sensors, thanks to its two native ISOs.

Read our in detail

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K Review

(Image credit: TechRadar)

3.Panasonic Lumix S1H

A cinematic 6K camera capable enough for Netflix

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

Full frame CMOS

Resolution:

24.2MP

Goal:

L mount

Viewfinder:

OLED-EVF

Monitor:

3.2-inch, 2,330,000-dot articulating touchscreen

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

9fps

Movies:

6K

User level:

Expert< /p>

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Reasons to buy

+

6K 10bit full frame video

+

Brilliant in low light

Reasons to avoid

-

Lack of raw video capture

-

Big and heavy

Panasonic's Lumix S1H is the smallest, cheapest camera to make Netflix's list of cameras approved for use in original productions - which is a fantastic measure of its motivation n image skills. are.

Video quality is virtually perfect in all conditions, with excellent noise performance thanks to Dual Native ISO. There's a staggering range of resolutions and frame rates to play with - from 6K/24p to 4K/60p - and each resolution is available with 10-bit color, providing great editing flexibility.

There's also the option to use anamorphic lenses, while recording modes include Cinelike Gamma, V-Log/V-Gamut and HDR in HLG, with in-camera color profiles adjustable. Despite the variety available - as well as the range of monitoring and display options - the S1H is remarkably accessible thanks to a redesigned interface, aided by a flip-out rear screen.

It's big and heavy for a full-frame mirrorless camera, but that's partly down to the quiet fan and cooling vent, which eliminates recording time limitations: you can shoot flawless footage until exhausted. battery or storage space.

Read our detailed review

Panasonic Lumix S1H

4. Panasonic Lumix GH5S

It's a no-compromise video tool for the price.

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

Micro Four Thirds

Resolution:

10.2MP

Goal:

Micro Four Tiers

Viewfinder:

EVF

Monitor:

3.2-inch, 1620,000-dot vari-angle display

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

12fps

Movies:

4K at 60fps

User level:

Expert

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61 Amazon customer reviews

☆

☆

☆

☆

☆

Reasons to buy

+

Multi-aspect sensor design

+

Spec. brilliant video

Reasons to avoid

-< /p>

The absence of IS is not for everyone

-

Battery life could be better

Although it can take photos fairly easily (albeit at a rather limited 10.2 MP resolution), this should be seen primarily as a video camera; if you want to do both, you have the Lumix GH5 (below) to fill that folder.

While the lack of built-in image stabilization may be a bummer for some, that issue aside the breadth of video features are incredibly impressive.

If you want to shoot pro-quality footage without re-mortgaging your house to buy a professional video camera, you won't find a better video camera right now.

Read our in-depth review

Panasonic Lumix GH5S

5.Panasonic Lumix GH5

The Lumix GH5 is a feature-rich 4K workhorse

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

Micro Four Thirds< /p>

Resolution:

20.3MP

Goal:

Micro Four Thirds

Viewfinder:

Monitor:

3.2-inch, 1620,000-dot vari-angle display

Maximum Continuous Shooting Speed:

12fps< /p>

Movies:

4K at 60fps

User level:

Expert

The best Panasonic Lumix GH5 offers of the moment< /p>

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☆

☆

☆

☆

☆

Reasons to buy

+

+

Large, fully articulating screen

Reasons to avoid

-

Limited ISO range

-

Bulky for a mirrorless camera

Until the arrival of the Lumix GH5S, the GH5 was the choice of the bunch for those looking to film.

Slightly cheaper than the new GH5S, the GH5 is a bit more versatile for those who want to shoot stills and video, and the video specs are still very impressive, letting you shoot Cinema 4K (4096 x 2160) at 60p with a bit rate of 150 Mbps, while Full HD video can be captured at up to 180 fps.

That's not all, as the GH5 offers 4:2:2 color downsampling and 10-bit color depth, delivering better color information and richer gradations. The GH5 also offers live output to external recorders such as Apple ProRes via HDMI, as well as simultaneous internal recording. All in all, it's still a fantastic hybrid for those who can't stretch to a full-frame alternative.

The GH5 II was recently announced, which in many ways is a minor upgrade over the previous model. However, it adds live streaming capability, which shows that the company wants to attract the growing number of vloggers using platforms such as Instagram and YouTube to live stream.

Panasonic also announced the development of the GH6. , coming later in the year. This model should represent a much more exciting revamp of the GH range.

Read our in-depth review

Panasonic Lumix GH5

(Image credit: Future)

6.Panasonic Lumix S5

Full-frame 4K in a surprisingly compact camera

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

full size

Resolution:

24.2MP

Goal:

L-Mount

Viewfinder:

EVF, 2.36 million dots

Monitor:

3.0-inch, 1.84 million-dot articulating touchscreen

Maximum Continuous Shooting Speed:

7fps

Movies:

4K

User level:

Beginner/Intermediate

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Reasons to buy

+

Small size and weight

+

Excellent video specs

Reasons to avoid

-

30 minute limit in 4K 10bit

-

Autofocus does not cut edge

Smaller and lighter than the Lumix GH5 (above), but equipped with a full-frame mirrorless sensor, the Panasonic Lumix S5 is a lesson in hybrid versatility.

A delight to hold and control, its fully articulating touchscreen makes the S5 a fantastic videography tool. The same goes for the 24.2MP full-frame sensor, which is capable of capturing cropped 4K footage at 60p or uncropped 4K footage at 30p. It can also record 10-bit 4K internally (albeit with a maximum clip length of 30 minutes).

As you'd expect from Panasonic, the video quality is excellent: there's plenty of detail, while in-body image stabilization keeps everything smooth. The contrast-based autofocus isn't state-of-the-art, but it's perfectly capable of tracking subjects around the frame.

Add V-Log, time-lapses, dual native ISO and anamorphic 4K into the mix and the S5 forms as an awesome option for 4K filmmakers. A second battery is advised for day-long shooting sessions, but the only real trade-off is using Micro HDMI over the full-size equivalent. Which, given the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, isn't a compromise at all.

Read our in-depth review

Panasonic Lumix S5

(Image credit: Future)

7.Fujifilm X-T4

A superb all-rounder for a balanced feed of videos and stills

Specifications

Kind:

Without mirror< /p>

Sensor size:

APS-C

Resolution:

26.1MP

Goal:

Fuji X

Monitor:

3 inch articulated, 1620000 stitches

Viewfinder:

EVF, 3.69 million dots

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

15fps/30fps

Movies:

4K

User level:< /p>

Intermediate/Expert

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Reasons to buy

+p>

The IBIS system works well

+

State-of-the-art APS-C sensor

+p>

Good autonomy

Reasons to avoid

-

No headphone jack

-

AF performance limited by lens

Fujifilm's X-T3 has dramatically improved its video performance over its predecessors, and the X-T4 takes a similar leap to make it one of the best 4K cameras you can buy.< /p>

The biggest boost comes from the inclusion of in-body image stabilization (IBIS). That makes it a little bigger and heavier than the X-T3, but still significantly lighter than an enthusiast-level DSLR. It doesn't completely replace the need for a gimbal, but it does mean it's a great option for the run-and-gun filmmaker.

Combine that with the same 26.1MP back-illuminated APS-C sensor as its predecessor, and you've got a fantastic performer for both photos and video. The latter particularly stands out thanks to the inclusion of a very modern movie shooting specification that includes Cinema 4K movies at up to 60 fps, 10-bit internal recording and bitrate up to 400 Mbps and with the profiles F-Log and HLG included as standard.

You can also shoot Full HD slow-motion video at up to 240 fps, while this IBIS system provides up to 6.5 EV (or exposure value) of stabilization when used with one of the stabilized lenses. from Fujifilm (18 of 29 X-series lenses fit this description). Overall, the Fujifilm X-T4 is the best APS-C mirrorless camera you can buy - and one of the main reasons for that is its video performance.

Read our in detail

Fujifilm X-T4 Review

(Image credit: Future)

8. Canon EOS R5

An 8K hybrid with great specs - and some limitations

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

full size

Resolution:

45MP

Goal:

RF mount

Viewfinder:

OLED-EVF

Monitor:

3.15-inch, 2,100,000-dot vari-angle touchscreen

20fps

Movies:

8K

User level:

Intermediate / expert

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Reasons to buy

+

Exceptional video specs

+

Incredible autofocus

Reasons to avoid

-

Video Recording Limits

-

CFExpress cards are expensive

On paper, the Canon EOS R5 is arguably the best mirrorless camera available today. Adopting a proven, easy-to-handle form factor, the R5 delivers stunning performance: a 45MP full-frame sensor is supported by the speedy Digic X chip, paired with Canon's fastest autofocus motor.

The video specs are equally exceptional. The EOS R5 can capture 4K footage at 120fps, with the option to shoot raw, while the resolution maxes out at 8K/30p. Results are superbly sharp, while the combination of IBIS and stabilized RF-mount lenses makes for decently smooth handheld shots, and log files offer incredible flexibility when it comes to shooting. color calibration.

There's a caveat: the EOS R5 offers recording limits to combat overheating, with a published maximum of 35 minutes for 4K/60p video. This is a significant limitation for professional filmmakers, but chances are those shooting a selection of shorter clips will never encounter this hurdle (we didn't).

Provided that's the case for you - and you're happy to shell out on CFExpress cards to unlock peak performance - the R5 is a fantastic 4K hybrid.

Read our in detail

Canon EOS R5 Review

(Image credit: Future)

9.Sony Alpha A6400

The excellent autofocus makes it a very accessible option

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

APS-C

Resolution:

24.2MP

Goal:

Sony E-mount

Monitor:

3-inch, 921k-dot tilting touchscreen

Viewfinder:

EVF

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

11fps

Movies:

4K

User level:

Beginner/Intermediate p>

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☆

☆

☆

☆

☆

Reasons to buy

+

Very advanced autofocus

+

Good video features

Reasons to avoid

-

No built-in image stabilization

-

No headphone jack

The A6400's lack of in-body stabilization and headphone jack can make it seem under-equipped when it comes to video recording. But its excellent image quality (smooth motion, impressive levels of detail), rugged magnesium-alloy construction, affordable price, and most importantly, its superb, highly advanced autofocus setup all go a long way towards making it a contender for the most accessible 4K camera. .

The autofocus, which includes excellent real-life eye and face tracking, takes a lot of work in both video and stills, especially if you're frequently photographing other people - or yourself. Sony's A6600, the evolutionary model in the line, retains much of the A6400's specs and features, but adds in-body stabilization, a headphone jack and longer battery life. But for now, the A6400 is our Sony pick when you consider value for money.

Read our

detailed review of the Sony Alpha A6400

(Image credit: Future)

10.Panasonic Lumix G9

Panasonic's best all-around mirrorless model to date

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

Micro Four Thirds

Resolution:

20.3MP

Goal:

Micro Four Tiers

Monitor:

3-inch, 1.04 million dot free-angle touchscreen

Viewfinder:

EVF

60fps

Movies:

4K

User level:

Keen

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☆

☆

☆

☆

☆

Reasons to buy p>

+

Image stabilization at 6.5 stops

+

Two UHS-II card slots

Reasons to avoid

-

Reduced screen size compared to the GH5

-

ISO range could be wider

It's not Panasonic's most video-focused camera - see the Panasonic GH5S and GH 5 above - but the Lumix G9 is a fantastic all-rounder for stills and video, especially thanks to recent updates. firmware update.

This added professional treats like 10-bit 4:2:2 video capture to some already tasty video benchmarks, which included the ability to shoot Cinema 4K video at a smooth 60 frames per second. The G9 also has superb in-body image stabilization which is equivalent to an additional 6.5 stops of exposure, as well as dual UHS-II SD card slots.

It's also weatherproof, easy to handle and has a host of photo-focused features, including a burst mode that shoots at 20fps with autofocus and an astonishing 60fps without. Overall, we think this is Panasonic's best all-around mirrorless camera, especially given its recent price drop.

Read our in-depth review

Panasonic Lumix G9

(Image credit: Future)

11.Panasonic Lumix S1

A first-gen full-framer that's no video novice

Specifications

Kind:

without mirror

Sensor size:

Full frame CMOS

Resolution:

24.2MP

Goal:

N / A

Viewfinder:

OLED EVF, 5.76 million dots

Monitor:

3.2-inch, 2.1 million dot tri-axis touchscreen

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

9ips

Movies:

4K

User level:

Beginner/intermediate

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☆ p>

☆

☆

☆

☆

Reasons to buy

+p>

Effective image stabilization

+

Well built and weather resistant

+

Superb video quality

Reasons to avoid

-

Big heavy body

-

No DCI 4K, V-Log is a paid upgrade

-

AF can be inconsistent

When it launched in early 2019, long before the cheaper Panasonic Lumix S5 arrived (see #6), the Lumix S1 was the junior model of the company's new S system. But the S1 was arguably the better option for videographers.

For starters, it captures 4K UHD footage using the whole width of its full-frame sensor – no crop factor here – and offers full pixel readout at up to 30p. It can also record 10-bit 4:2:0 footage internally using the HEVC/H.265 codec, with an update due later this year set to unlock even higher specs. Videos can be shot in 4K at up to 60p (with a 30-minute time limit) and there are several gamma curve profiles on-board, including Hybrid Log Gamma.

In the real world, that all translates into very high-quality video. Its body might be heavy, but sensor-based image stabilization helps keep handheld footage smooth, while rolling shutter is only an issue if the S1 is suddenly jerked. The on-board microphone is surprisingly capable, too, even if the external mic and headphone ports will prove more popular.

Arguably the biggest issue is the autofocus performance which, due to an absence of phase-detection pixels, can be a little inconsistent and jerkier than rivals. The S1 promises plenty, though, provided you're comfortable using manual focus.

Read our in-depth

Panasonic S1 review

(Image credit: Future)

12.Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

A 4K performer that ticks all the boxes

Specifications

Kind:

Mirrorless

Sensor size:

Micro Four Thirds

Resolution:

20.4MP

Lens:

Micro Four Thirds

Viewfinder:

EVF

Monitor:

3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,037K dots

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

18fps

Movies:

4K

User level:

Intermediate

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Reasons to buy

+

Great build quality

+

Excellent image stabilization

+

Improve d AF performance

Reasons to avoid

-

Limited low-light image quality

-

EVF could be better

Picking up where its predecessor left off, the OM-D E-M1 Mark III is an outstanding all-round package – and that's as much the case for shooting video as it is for stills.

On paper, the Mark III's video specification is solid enough to cater for both casual recorders and more serious videographers: it can shoot Cine 4K video at 24fps (237Mbps) and Full HD at up to 120fps, with an OM-Log 400 color profile that's little short of lovely.

And it all comes good in action. Powerful image stabilization keeps footage smooth and sharp, while capable continuous autofocus with face- and eye-detection proves impressively effective. Headphone and external mic ports are a welcome presence for those looking to upgrade their setup, too.

If there's one thing we'd like to see, it's the availability of the Live ND mode – which simulates the effect of a real neutral-density filter – while shooting video. But such is the depth of what the E-M1 Mark III can do when you dig into the options, it's hard to pick any real faults.

Read our in-depth

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III review

Alternatively...

Great value option: Panasonic Lumix G80/G85

Big features squeezed into a small body

Specifications

Kind:

Mirrorless

Sensor size:

Micro Four Thirds

Resolution:

16MP

Lens:

Micro Four Thirds

Viewfinder:

EVF

Monitor:

3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040K dots

Maximum continuous shooting speed:

9fps

Movies:

4K

User level:

Beginner/intermediate

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452 Amazon customer reviews

☆

☆

☆

☆

☆

Reasons to buy

+

Excellent EVF

+

Strong AF performance

Reasons to avoid

-

Relatively poor battery life

-

Over-complicated controls

Before we look at our round-up of the best 4K cameras, we wanted to highlight a slightly more affordable alternative. It might have since been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix G90 / G95, but the Lumix G80 (known as the Lumix G85 in the US) is still a very capable and cost-effective option for those looking for a budget 4K camera. There's 4K video capture up to 30p (with a bit rate up to 100Mbps) and a dedicated microphone socket. Focusing is fast, while the vari-angle touchscreen should make framing footage nice and easy. The G80/G85 is also weather-sealed to protect it from the elements. It successor brings features like unlimited 4K recording, but if you don't mind being restricted to 30 minutes per clip then this model offers great value.

Read our in-depth

Panasonic Lumix G80 / G85 review

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