Last Updated on December 5, 2023 by Sharon Advik
It is a fact that smartphones have taken over the camera industry.
It is possible to film almost anything using a high-end phone.
But these small gadgets don’t provide the required quality when covering fast-paced, action-like filming sports.
Who wouldn’t like to watch the NBA finals or The Super Bowl in high quality?
Credit goes to the technological advancements that beginners can now film action-packed sporting scenes using professional cameras, that too under budget.
I am used to watching everything through the eyes of famous vloggers.
I am sure you are, too!
This impact has led me to invest in the best camera for filming sports, and below are my top picks in every range.
It will help you make the best decision that suits your needs.
Which is the best camera for filming sports?
Here are my recommended top 8 best camera for filming sports:-
DJI Pocket 2: (An Excellent Gimbal Camera for Filming on the Move)
Gimbal cameras became famous because they offer stable and smooth video capture, even when the camera is moving or experiencing vibrations.
It uses motors and sensors to keep the camera level and steady.
Having a 2-in-1 solution for camera and gimbal, both revolutionized the photography industry when DJI Osmo Pocket was released.
However, due to its advanced features, the DJI Pocket 2 is one step ahead and has an excellent gimbal camera for filming on the move.
Features:
- Model: DJI Pocket 2
- Effective Megapixel: 64 MP
- ISO range: 100-6400 (16 MP) and 100-3200 (64 MP)
- Image sensor: 1/1.7” CMOS
- Shutter speeds: 8-1/8000
- Storage: SDHC/SDXC UHS-I
- Dimension: 124.7×38.1×30 mm
- Weight: 117g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
It has a maximum ISO of 3200 for video recording.
Additionally, using a fast shutter speed and a wide aperture can help reduce motion blur and increase the overall sharpness of the footage.
The gimbal stabilization helped me capture smooth videos using an ISO of 400 and a fast enough shutter range.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
Smartphone cameras are a thing of the past after the invention of the gimbal camera like Pocket 2.
It offers a fixed aperture of f/1.8.
Furthermore, the improved 64MP, 1/1.7-inch sensor is bigger and more potent than most smartphone camera sensors.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
Its ability to record at 4K quality at up to 60fps makes it an excellent choice for capturing fast-paced sports vlogs.
While 1080p is undoubtedly good, 4K video is gradually becoming the new norm and allows more post-production flexibility.
Plus, shooting at 1080p, the battery life is decent enough as it can work for a maximum of 2.5 hours.
Why is this camera the best?
The camera offers high-quality video and audio capabilities in a compact, portable form.
It has a 3-axis gimbal stabilizes the camera, allowing for smooth and stable footage.
The camera has various shooting modes, including 4K/60fps video and 8x slow motion, a built-in microphone, and the ability to connect external microphones for improved audio quality.
Conclusion:
This camera is a versatile and reliable option for vloggers looking to capture high-quality video on the go.
This camera gave me an incredible experience while filming the US Open matches.
It captured the vibrant colors and fast-moving motions smoothly and without noise.
Click here to buy
GoPro HERO10: (Involved in the action? Here’s the camera for you.)
Action cameras are an excellent choice for capturing sporting shots.
They are designed to be small, lightweight, and durable, making them easy to carry and operate during physically demanding activities.
They also typically have wide-angle lenses, allowing for a more immersive and action-packed perspective.
Additionally, many action cameras are waterproof or water-resistant, making them well-suited for outdoor sports or water-related activities.
Are you looking for options involved in the action?
Here’s the camera for you – the mighty GoPro HERO10!
Features:
- Model: GoPro HERO10
- Effective Megapixel: 23 MP
- ISO range: 100 to 6400
- Image sensor: CMOS
- Shutter speeds: 1/2000 to 1/30 Second
- Storage: MicroSD/microSDHC/microSDXC
- LCD: 1.4″ LCD Live-View Monitor
- Dimension: 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6 mm
- Weight: 158g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
During an NBA final, I was surrounded by thousands of spectators eager to watch their team win.
I aimed to capture every moment perfectly- the running players, action-packed celebrations, and the happening moments.
Like many action cameras, this camera can adjust ISO and shutter settings.
Thus, I set the ISO higher while the shutter is 1/125th sec to reduce motion blur.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
Along with its electronic image stabilization, the camera has a fixed wide aperture of f/2.8, which didn’t let my pictures look dim.
After perfectly setting the ISO and shutter speed at this aperture, filming the ecstatic scenes during the NBA game was beautiful.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
If you want to upgrade your reel game on TikTok, this camera will help you gain organic followers.
The reason is its video capabilities; you can go from 1080p at 240fps to 5.3K at 60fps.
This decisive action camera did great with the white balance mode while I was shooting my sporting vlog.
Why is this camera the best?
The HERO10 is considered one of the best action cameras on the market for several reasons.
One significant advantage of the camera is its advanced image stabilization technology, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce smooth, stable footage even in high-intensity activities.
Additionally, it has a high-quality 4K video resolution, allowing for stunningly detailed and crisp videos.
Conclusion:
This camera is all about using in challenging situations like hiking and other rugged sports.
I made plenty of POV videos during mountain biking, and they came out perfect, thanks to their image stabilization.
However, don’t let its excellent shooting capabilities be used for short filming.
Click here to buy
Fujifilm X-T4: (Best mirrorless camera for recording sports video footage)
Sports are inherently dynamic and fast-paced, making for exciting and engaging footage.
I love how it involves capturing the emotions and moments that make up the event’s story, whether it’s a game-winning goal or a dramatic finish.
For this reason, the X-T4 by Fujifilm has its charm in being the best camera for filming sports. Here’s why
Features:
- Model: Fujifilm X-T4
- Effective Megapixel: 26.1 MP
- ISO range: 160-12800
- Image sensor: 5mm x 15.6mm (APS-C/X-Trans CMOS 4)
- Shutter speeds: 1/8000 – 30 sec
- Storage: SD / SDHC/ SDXC/ UHS-I / UHS-II
- LCD: 3.0-inch color touchscreen
- Dimension: 134.6mm x 92.8mm x 63.8mm
- Weight: 607g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
Be it stills or videos, this camera stands out in both categories.
The reason is its wide native ISO range of 160-12800.
It is expandable to ISO 80, 100, and 51,200. It also has a variety of shutter speeds, from 1/8000 of a second to 15 minutes.
I kept my shutter speed doubled to the ISO to avoid shaky videos.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
The X-T4 is better than the T3 for recording video footage.
Thanks to its ISO, aperture, and wide aperture of f/1.4 for the XF lenses and f/2.8 for the XC lenses.
I set my aperture to f/2.8 to avoid focus issues, which is ideal for capturing sports footage.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
I recorded several lengthy, sports-related how-to guides to unlock the camera’s full potential.
Surprisingly, the camera’s tremendous 240 fps recorded HD footage smoothly.
It allows you to slow down footage by 10 times, which is twice as fast as the Fujifilm X-T3.
Why is this camera the best?
This mirrorless camera is widely praised for its image quality, advanced autofocus system, and robust build.
One of its best features is its in-body image stabilization system, which allows for sharp handheld shots even in low-light conditions.
The camera offers a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, excellent battery life, and a wide range of compatible lenses.
Conclusion:
The Fujifilm X-T4 is a highly-rated mirrorless camera well-suited for recording sports video footage.
It has a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen LCD, which can be helpful when trying to track moving subjects.
Overall, it is an excellent option for sports photography and is considered one of the best mirrorless cameras for sports videography.
Click here to buy
Canon Vixia HF R800: (Filming from the stands? You’ll want this optical zoom level.)
Growing up, I’ve seen my father filming The Super Bowl Finals using his Sony Camcorder.
To keep the old-school vibes alive within my sports, I invested in a camcorder by Canon.
Except for its shape, the performance is nowhere near the old ones.
It is a straightforward device that is easy to use and has excellent zoom and focus.
Are you in the same boat and are filming from the stands?
You’ll want this level of optical zoom, which the Vixia HF R800 offers.
Features:
- Model: Canon Vixia HF R800
- Effective Megapixel: 2.07 MP
- Image sensor: 1/4.85-inch CMOS
- Shutter speeds: 1/2000
- Storage: SD/SDHC/SDXC and FlashAir memory card slot
- LCD: 3.0-inch touch panel LCD
- Dimension: 53 x 58 x 116mm
- Weight: 305g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
Be it a basketball game or a golf match, capturing fast-moving balls and other activities isn’t a hassle with this camera.
It has a shutter speed range of 1/2000 seconds.
You can adjust these settings according to the lighting around you.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
As a typical camcorder, it doesn’t have a manual aperture; the camera controls the light capacity.
However, it ranges between f/1.8-4.5.
As a result, the video footage, even from the stands, is bright and sharp.
Make sure you have a tripod in case the video gets shaky.
Otherwise, the image stabilization will handle the rest.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
While it does not support 4K video, the 1080p image quality is superb, with minimal to no noise interference.
It can shoot at 60p, 30p, and 24p.
For balance, the color hues during sports filming, the camera has Auto, Daylight, Tungsten, and Custom WB modes.
Why is this camera the best?
The camera has a SuperRange optical image stabilization system, which helps to minimize camera shake and blur when shooting at high zoom levels.
This allows for precise, stable footage even when zoomed in on distant subjects.
Overall, the combination of the advanced zoom lens and image stabilization system makes it great for capturing detailed, high-quality footage at a distance.
Conclusion:
The Canon Vixia HF R800 is a consumer-grade valuable camcorder for recording videos from afar.
It features a 57x advanced zoom lens, a 3.28-megapixel full HD CMOS image sensor, and can record in 1080p resolution at 60fps.
It also has built-in WiFi and a 3-inch LCD touchscreen for easy operation and sharing of videos.
Click here to buy
Sony FDR-AX53 4K HD Camcorder: (Best Semi-Pro camcorder)
I’ve always loved flat horse racing.
But it is hard to capture the horses running like the wind using a smartphone camera.
On my friend’s suggestion, I opted for a semi-pro camcorder by Sony, and it has been a game changer as it is the best camcorder for filming sports.
I’ve mentioned all the reasons.
Check them to see if it’s the best semi-pro camcorder for you.
Features:
- Model: Sony FDR-AX53 4K
- Effective Megapixel: 8.2 MP
- ISO: 12800
- Image sensor: 1/2.5 (Exmor R CMOS)
- Shutter speeds: 1/50 – 1/10000
- Storage: SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo
- LCD: 7.5cm (Xtra Fine LCD)
- Dimension: 73mm x 80.5mm x 161mm
- Weight: 535g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
The Sony camcorder has a maximum ISO of 12800 and a maximum shutter speed of 1/10000 second.
You can adjust the ISO to help capture snaps in low light conditions, while the shutter speed is adjustable to freeze or blur motion in the shot.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
It has a variable aperture range of f/2-f/3.8.
The aperture can be adjusted between this range for more or less light to enter the lens and affect the image’s exposure.
This figure is ideal for videography, capturing action moves like sports.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
The Exmor R CMOS image sensor captures UHD 4K video at 24 or 30 frames per second using Sony’s XAVC S codec.
It has dots about 1.6x bigger than the previous generation for improved performance in all settings, especially dimly-lit settings.
Why is this camera the best?
My friend, a pro at videography, suggested this gadget; since then, I haven’t loved any other camcorder to film sporting events.
The camera uses the BIONZ X image processing engine for exceptional image quality.
Additionally, a fast, Intelligent AF quickly and accurately focuses on your subject.
It has a built-in microphone and XLR input for professional-level audio recording.
Conclusion:
The Sony FDR-AX53 is a semi-pro camcorder that offers 4K HD resolution and a variety of advanced features for professional-quality video recording.
It has a 1/2.5-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor and a 26.8mm wide-angle lens with 20x optical zoom, allowing you to capture stunning, detailed footage.
The camcorder also has a built-in 5-axis image stabilization system that helps to eliminate camera shake and ensure smooth videos.
Click here to buy
Vlogging Full HD Camcorder: (A cheap camcorder that gets the job done)
I was saturated enough to spend on high-end camcorders at one point.
I needed a change that didn’t cost me an arm and a leg.
I had been filming NBA and MLB games from the stands and BTS for many sporting events using the Canon Vixia HF R800.
But I wanted to switch to a less- expensive option.
Luckily, I stumbled upon Linnse’s Vlogging Full HD Camcorder, a cheap camcorder that does the job.
Features:
ISO / Shutter Speed:
Filming sports isn’t an easy task.
You have to select the right settings for non-choppy videos.
I find this camera an all-rounder as it does the job at a lower price.
It features a good ISO of 3200 and shutter speed controls of 1/4000 sec, allowing you to adjust the camera’s sensitivity to light and speed.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
The camera has a 2x slo-mo recording feature, which helped me capture the finest shots without creating a noisy image.
Even though it’s the cheapest camcorder, the camera’s aperture is optimum for filming sports.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
Not all sports need the same lighting.
The weather conditions sometimes compelled me to change the white balance using modes like Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, or Fluorescent.
Moreover, it can shoot full HD 1080p videos at 30 fps – a decent figure for a fast-action genre like filming sports.
Why is this camera the best?
It is a compact and lightweight camera designed for vloggers and content creators.
It has a 1080p resolution and a wide-angle lens to capture stunning visuals and videos.
The camcorder also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth for easy sharing and live streaming capabilities.
The camera has a flip-out touchscreen display for easy framing and recording and a built-in microphone for high-quality audio recording.
Conclusion:
With its advanced features and user-friendly design, the Linnse Vlogging Full HD Camcorder is an excellent choice for creating professional-quality content.
The camera is no less than a high-end one.
So, if you’re looking for a camcorder within budget, it is the one for you!
Click here to buy
Panasonic G85: (A Versatile and Rugged 4K Mirrorless Camera that’s More Affordable Than the Fujifilm X-T4)
Some outdoor activities are more challenging and more happening than others.
My favorite is white water rafting.
However, shooting in between the crazy water splashes and shooting a vlog in such a situation is risky.
But thanks to the Panasonic G85.
Even though Fujifilm X-T4 had built-in image stabilization, its videos still had some choppy parts.
Luckily, this camera did full justice to the shaky shots.
Overall, it is a versatile and rugged 4K mirrorless camera that’s more affordable than the Fujifilm X-T4.
Features:
- Model: Panasonic G85
- Effective Megapixel: 24.2 MP
- ISO range: 100-25600
- Image sensor: NA
- Shutter speeds: 1/16000
- Storage: SD/SDHC/SDXC
- LCD: 3-inch 1.04M-dot articulating LCD
- Dimension: 128 x 89 x 74 mm
- Weight: 453g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
It has a native ISO range of 100-25600 and can be extended to ISO 100 and ISO 51200.
The camera also has a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000th of a second and a minimum shutter speed of 60 seconds.
Additionally, the G85 also has a Bulb mode for long exposures.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
The fantastic camera has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 for its interchangeable lenses.
This aperture’s ISO and shutter speed combination makes it perfect for recording videos.
It will make little economic sense to buy one only to record sports clips to upload on Instagram.
Still, those documenting sporting activities or ambitious YouTubers will welcome the improvement in video quality.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
The Panasonic G85 is a camera that is capable of shooting at a variety of frame rates.
The same frame rate options available will depend on the specific settings and resolution that you are using.
Some standard options include 24p, 30p, and 60p.
Additionally, the camera also supports 1080p or 4K video recording.
If you are still determining the specific frame rate options for the G85, you can consult the camera’s manual or check the settings menu on the camera itself.
Why is this camera the best?
The G85 features a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor capable of capturing stunning 4K video and high-resolution still images.
It also has a fast autofocus system that can track and focus on moving subjects, making it perfect for capturing action shots.
Conclusion:
If you’re hunting for a budget-friendly option, this camera is perfect.
It is a versatile and rugged 4K mirrorless camera that is perfect for photographers and videographers looking for a high-quality camera that can handle various shooting conditions.
Its weather-sealed body and built-in 5-axis image stabilization allow it to shoot sharp, stable images and videos even in challenging environments.
Click here to buy
Sony A6600: (A YouTuber Favorite with Great Autofocus and IBIS)
I was planning a gift for my brother, who has a knack for creating YouTube content.
I wanted to play safe and opt for the option that most Youtubers do.
After watching several videos of sports Youtubers, I understood how Sony A6600 is ahead of its game.
This mirrorless camera has left everyone behind, being the best camera for filming sports.
Everything from its ergonomics to its image sensor makes it a worthy option if you are a sports photographer.
This camera will provide a pleasant experience even for an amateur sports vlogger, as it is a YouTuber favorite with great autofocus and IBIS.
Features:
- Model: Sony A6600
- Effective Megapixel: 24.2 MP
- ISO range: 100-32000 (expandable to 102400)
- Image sensor: 23.5 x 15.6 mm (APS-C CMOS )
- Shutter speeds: 1/4000
- Storage: SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo
- LCD: 3-inch tilting LCD
- Dimension: 120 x 67 x 69 mm
- Weight: 503g
ISO / Shutter Speed:
Using the APS-C sensor and a high IS0 range 32000, this camera enabled us to take super-fine shots during the Super Bowl Final.
I advised my brother to set the shutter double to the frame rate he decides to use.
This setting was the reason behind yielding the most out of this camera.
Aperture / Depth of Field:
I recommend using a wide aperture or a low f-stop number for sports photography to isolate your subject and blur the background.
The A6600 has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 on the kit lens (18-55mm) and f/4 on the 55-210mm lens, which is suitable for sports photography.
White Balance / Frame Rate:
It has a maximum frame rate of 11 fps for continuous shooting in high-speed burst mode.
This is suitable for capturing fast-moving sports action.
The camera also has a continuous shooting mode of 8 fps with live view and 8 fps with silent shooting.
Why is this camera the best?
I’ve tested this camera and love its 4K video recording capabilities.
Its advanced auto-focus system and crisp image quality strengthened my brother’s vlogging game.
Overall, it is a high-performance camera with many features for professional and advanced-level photography and videography.
Conclusion:
The Sony A6600 is a popular mirrorless camera among YouTubers and photography enthusiasts.
It features advanced autofocus capabilities and in-body image stabilization, which helps to produce sharp and stable images and videos even in low-light conditions.
Click here to buy
CONCLUSION:
Alright, guys, that concludes all the cameras we will discuss today in this article.
Do you guys have any experience with these cameras? What are your thoughts on them?
Which is your best camera for filming sports?
Is there a camera I didn’t mention in this article that you love using for Action Shots?
Would you please leave your thoughts and comments below?
Related post:
Best Camera for Sports Photography:
I am a Professional and Certified Digital Photographer born in the USA. I have been in this field of photography for 22 years, and in these years, I have used many photography lenses and Cameras, which I want to share here on this website about my experience. The idea for Bestoflens.com is to provide honest information about different Lenses and Camera products in the format of a “Best lenses for AYZ” list. I want this website to be the last destination for people to pick the best Cameras and lenses to fit their needs. You can find our unbiased reviews here on Bestoflens.