Budget video camera tier list (Under $1000)

Summary

In this video, the creator shares a tier list of cheap 4K cameras under $1,000, based on their performance and value for video production. The tier list includes cameras like the Panasonic GH4, GH5, and the Blackmagic Pocket 4K, ranking them from 'S' tier for the best options, to 'Dungeon' for the least recommended. The video also highlights other models such as the Sony ZV-E10, Nikon Z6, and Canon EOS R, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. The creator provides insight into camera features like image quality, autofocus, and usability, making it a valuable resource for budget-conscious filmmakers.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video creator is evaluating cheap cameras that shoot 4K for under $1,000, focusing on cameras with interchangeable lenses.
• 😀 The creator defines the tier list categories: S-tier (best performance), Max Squeeze (good value for the price), B-cam (decent for secondary use), Meh (good but not recommended), and Dungeon (bad performance).
• 😀 The GH4, despite being a pioneer in 4K mirrorless cameras, is placed in the B-cam tier due to its limitations compared to newer models.
• 😀 The GH5 is praised for its performance, making it a strong contender in the Max Squeeze tier, especially due to its 10-bit video output and overall image quality.
• 😀 The Sony ZV-E10 Mark II is seen as a solid secondary camera (B-cam), though it has some overheating issues, positioning it behind the GH4 in terms of performance.
• 😀 The Samsung NX1 is placed in the Dungeon tier, not recommended for purchase in 2024 due to its outdated features and lack of support.
• 😀 The Panasonic GH5 is a well-regarded choice for a budget-friendly camera in the Max Squeeze tier, offering great image quality and features for its price.
• 😀 The Pocket 4K camera is placed in the S-tier for its superior image quality, 4K ProRes recording, and affordability, making it a top choice for filmmakers on a budget.
• 😀 The Olympus EM1 Mark II, although a good camera for photography, is placed in the Meh tier for video, as it doesn’t quite meet the level of a B-cam for mixed setups.
• 😀 The original EOS R, due to its 4K crop and lack of 10-bit recording, is put in the Dungeon tier, deemed obsolete for modern video production needs.
• 😀 The Panasonic S5, with its full-frame sensor and 4K recording capabilities, is a standout in the Max Squeeze tier, offering great video quality for a reasonable price.
• 😀 The GH6 is praised for its pro-level features, including internal ProRes, IBIS, and comprehensive codec options, placing it in the S-tier for its overall versatility and value.
• 😀 The Sony A73, despite being an older model with 8-bit recording, is highlighted in the Max Squeeze tier for its strong autofocus and full-frame sensor, providing great video quality.

Q & A

What criteria does the speaker use to evaluate cheap cameras for the tier list?

The speaker uses two main criteria: the camera must shoot 4K video and be available for under $1,000 in the used market or brand new.

Why does the speaker categorize the GH4 as 'BCam' rather than 'S' or 'Max Squeeze'?

Although the GH4 was a groundbreaking camera in its time, it is placed in the 'BCam' tier because it’s not the first choice for a backup camera. The speaker prefers other cameras, like the GH5, which offers a better price-to-performance ratio.

What makes the GH5 stand out from the GH4, according to the speaker?

The GH5 is placed in the 'Max Squeeze' tier because it offers significant improvements over the GH4, such as better video quality, 10-bit internal recording, and more modern features for only a slightly higher price.

Why is the Samsung NX1 placed in the 'Dungeon Tier'?

The Samsung NX1 is considered obsolete in 2024, and the speaker advises against buying it unless it's found at a garage sale, due to its outdated features and lack of support.

How does the speaker compare the Nikon Z6 to other cameras on the list?

The Nikon Z6 is placed in the 'Meh' tier because, while it has 10-bit video after a firmware update, it's not as competitive compared to other more recent options. The speaker also mentions that its autofocus and video features are not up to par with newer models.

What camera does the speaker consider the best for 4K video under $1,000?

The speaker places the Blackmagic Pocket 4K in the 'S' tier, citing its excellent image quality and features such as ProRes recording as reasons why it's one of the best options for under $1,000.

Why is the Sony ZV-E10 Mark II rated as a good backup camera (BCam)?

The ZV-E10 Mark II is considered a solid 'BCam' due to its 10-bit recording, compact design, and good overall performance, though it does have some limitations, such as overheating.

What is the main issue with the original Canon EOS R according to the speaker?

The original Canon EOS R is placed in the 'Dungeon Tier' due to its crop in 4K video, lack of 10-bit color, and loss of Dual Pixel autofocus in 4K, making it less desirable for video shooting in 2024.

How does the speaker evaluate the Panasonic G7 and G85?

The Panasonic G7 is placed in the 'Meh' tier because, while it was a great camera when released, it lacks the features of newer models like the G85. The G85 is considered a better option for a backup camera ('BCam'), with better autofocus and image quality.

Why is the Panasonic GH6 rated highly on the tier list?

The Panasonic GH6 is placed in the 'S' tier for its versatility, offering internal ProRes, great IBIS, and multiple video recording options, making it a strong contender for professional video production at a reasonable price.