Streaming your live video feed can be a little tricky. But with the right, trusty camera, you will surely get to interact with your audiences hassle-free. As webcams take over the world because of the pandemic, are DSLRs and SLRs still worth it? Let’s figure out as we take a look at our Top 3 (reliable) picks that will surely not break the bank and compromise your video quality.
Canon EOS Rebel T8i
A mid-range camera that is a buddy of streamers, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i lives up to its name by offering superb face and eye detection technology with 45 points autofocus feature, which will truly help level up your stream game. Equipped with a 4.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 8 image processor, recording at 1080p, 720p, and 4K UHD (24 and 60 fps) is made possible ‘because this rebel got your back!
Pros:
- Built-in WIFI and NFC technology
- Built-in Bluetooth
- EOS Utility Webcam Software
- CameraConnect app compatible
- Allows easy file transfers from camera to phone
- Remote control for streaming
Cons:
- Limited focus area in the viewfinder
- Cropped 4k footage
- Full HD video is prone to false color
- No in-body stabilizer
- No charging via USB
Nikon D3500
Are you looking for an entry-level DSLR that will allow you to enjoy and kickstart your stream career with features that match the more expensive ones in the market?
Nikon D3500 is the perfect match for you! It’s budget-friendly and will give you the value of your money with its impressive specs perfect for novices in photography and video streaming. Enjoy full HD 1080p/60p video capture with its long battery life. No need to worry about charging while doing a quick game stream!
Reliable and unintimidating. Small and compact—perfect for your room setup.
Pros:
- Simple and beginner-friendly
- Excellent features for a budget tag
- Sharp 24 Megapixel APS-C sensors
- Easy-reach control buttons
- Compact and lightweight
Cons:
- No 4K video available
- Not compatible with USB Charging
- Manual reset of the Live View every 30 minutes
- Needs HDMI cable/USB Video Capture Device
- Basic controls (if you’re an intermediate/pro user)
- Slow Bluetooth images transfer
Canon EOS 80D
Become the best content creator and live streamer you can be without breaking the bank with the Canon EOS 80D. Whether for Facebook, Twitch, Youtube, or other platforms, this midrange DLSR will deliver satisfying photography and video results.
Capture live videos or record full 1080 HD at 30/24 fps videos in 7 FPS with continuous shooting modes even in low-light environments.
Always on the spot for your next move, equipped with an intelligent software system, it is an all-in-one streaming companion.
Pros:
- Beginner-friendly
- Fast transfer of files
- With Microphone and headphone jacks
- Touch Gestures (LCD Screen)
- weather-resistant (raindrops)
- Well-balanced and comfortable to hold
- The quiet kit lens (better focusing and zooming)
- USB Plug and Connect via EOS Webcam Utility Beta Software (Windows Only)
- Built-in flash and HDMI mini
Cons:
- Earlier release date
- Shares classic design with older models
- Lacks 4K video
- Single Memory Card slot
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Why should you choose a DSLR for streaming?
Using a DSLR camera for streaming will surely be a game-changer for you. For one, it will enable you to have a more professional-looking video with bokeh effects and cinematic-looking lenses that will surely impress your audience. Having a DSLR will also give you the option to have multiple viewpoints for your stream since it can be mounted in a tripod or a stabilizer.
Plus, with a DSLR camera, you can have the best of both worlds. Tired of a long stream? You can appreciate nature more and hone your photography talents by having a high-quality camera that will not just be your streaming buddy but can serve as your photography companion as well.
What factors do you need to consider before purchasing a streaming camera?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right DSLR camera for your streams. First, you should check if your desired camera has an HDMI or SDI output. Most cameras (especially those that are not intended for streaming) cannot provide clean transmitted video data and will result in pixelated or blurry videos. Worst case scenario, they may not even work.
Moreover, before purchasing a camera, double-check its maximum video resolution to avoid poor-quality videos that may turn off your followers. The advisable resolutions for good quality streaming are at 720p (standard HD), 1080p (Full HD), and then the highest quality you can go for is 4K (Ultra HD).
Lastly, in some cases, due to prolonged use, cameras shut off while streaming, and you don’t want that to happen. Some cameras may have this issue so save time and embarrassment by researching relevant reviews about your chosen camera.
