Best Cameras Under 300$ – Action & Video
If you’re interested in photography or videography, then having a good quality camera is important. However, buying a low price camera with all the features you need, can be quite confusing.
So, if you have come here just to know if there is a top camera for 300 dollars let me tell you you have a lot of options.
I'm Xavier a camera blogger for the past 7 years. In this article, I will take you through a list of the best cameras under 300. I will also mention some features you need to consider while purchasing a low cost digital camera. Excited to know our top performers? Well then let's get started.
Also, check out Best DSLR For HD 1080p Video Recording article.
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BEST CAMERAS UNDER 300 REVIEW
Below I have mentioned a list of the best cameras under each category.
BEST POINT AND SHOOT CAMERAS UNDER 300
1. CANON POWERSHOT SX620 - BEST VALUE POINT AND SHOOT CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
If you want to make your travel photography/travel vlogging fuzz-free, add this CANON POWERSHOT SX620 to your camera kit. It has a 25x optical zoom which will provide a dynamic focal range of 25-625mm.
So with this camera in your hand, you can capture almost all wide-angle to telephoto shots very quickly.
DESIGN:
A super sleek camera that will fit your pocket easily! The build quality is also good, with the outer case being made of high-quality plastic and metal. The best part I liked about this camera's design is that the camera's lens' retracts fully into the body once the camera is powered off.
When comparing this S20 model with its predecessor SX610 HS, there is no significant change in terms of its exterior design. However, this elder brother is 9 grams less in weight. Also, the camera controls and buttons look very tiny and come with a handgrip in the front.
The DIGIC 4+ Image Sensor combined with the processor will give you crisp and clear shots even in dim lights. At the back of the camera, there is a 3 inch 922K dot display LCD screen that makes it easy to frame and review your shots.
And most importantly, this camera is Wi-Fi enabled and also comes with remote control.
PERFORMANCE:
This 20.2 MP camera gives brilliant colors, smooth gradations and beautiful details in low-light. But will the camera's resolution alone justify it as the most suitable camera for under 300?
Well, there is another essential feature this camera holds. It is nothing but an in-body stabilization that will help the camera compensate for a firm camera shake. Isn't it great to see a Canon budget camera holding these many exciting features?
The 'Smart Auto' shooting mode of the SX620 HS will automatically detect your subject and adjusts the shooting settings accordingly. As this is a digital zoom lens, you will not find any zoom ring on the lens. The "Auto Zoom" function of the camera itself will zoom in to your subject automatically.
Lastly, this SX620 shows an increased battery life with that of its predecessor. Yes, you can take up to 295 shots with a single charging.
Overall, it is my favorite camera for photography under 300! Give it a try if you liked it's features.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMERA:
2. PANASONIC LUMIX FZ80 4K - BEST BRIDGE CAMERA UNDER 300
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
Upgraded version of the LUMIX DC-ZS70K camera with additional features like in-built Wi-Fi, touch screen facility, and 4k video capture resolution.
The Panasonic comes with a 20.3 MP high sensitivity MOS sensor that records high-quality images in incredible detail, and it is ideal for traveling.
DESIGN:
Looking at the camera, you may think it is a DSLR, but it's not. It sits between a point-and-shoot camera and a DSLR because it gives a long zoom range but doesn't allow interchangeable lenses. That is why it is called a bridge point-and-shoot camera.
If you have to compare this camera's weight with that of the SX60 mentioned above, this camera is slightly heavy. It weighs about 630 grams.
In terms of the camera's display, there is a 0.2-inch 1,166k-dot LVF (Live View Finder). The interesting fact is that the viewfinder activates automatically when you lift the camera to your eye level.
This camera gives the same feel like a DSLR. It has got a rubberized handgrip, programmable functions buttons, AF/AE lock button, LVF/LCD toggle button, and a shutter release button on the top.
PERFORMANCE:
The 5-axis HYBRID O.I.S.+ detects five types of movement and takes care of vibration and micro jiggles to minimize blurring. Also, the camera's Level Shot function helps to maintain the image's horizontal line even if the camera is tilted.
The 24-720mm lens allows you to get closer to the subject. Lastly, the 180-degree tiltable monitor helps you capture the perfect selfie in 4K quality. And transferring files from this camera to PC is very easy; you just need to install the PANASONIC Image App.
Overall, if you don't want to compromise on the image quality and want a cheap point-and-shoot camera, why not consider this option.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMERA:
3. SONY (DSCW800) 20.1 MP - BEST AFFORDABLE POINT AND SHOOT CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Sony's Cyber-Shot cameras are world-famous, and DCW800 belongs to this series. Its 20 MP sensor and 5x optical zoom range make it a good choice for beginner-level photographers.
The lens on this Sony point-and-shoot camera will give a full-frame focal range of 26mm to 130mm, which is more like wide-angle to telephoto focal length. This is the lightest camera on this lens. It weighs only 125g. So, those looking for a go-to budget point and shoot camera can consider purchasing this Sony (DSCW800).
The ISO range of this lens is not as wide as that of the previous cameras. But it provides a decent ISO range of 100 – 3200, which is sufficient for taking daylight shots.
You could use the camera to take close-up shots because the camera lens's macro distance is 5cm. Also, you needn't use any external flash or light setup because the camera has an in-built flash mechanism.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMERA:
BEST ACTION CAMERAS UNDER 300
4. GOPRO HERO8 BLACK WATERPROOF ACTION CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
If you're a vlogger or a YouTuber looking for a budget-friendly action camera, then this GoPro Hero 8 could be the best pick for you. Its 12MP sensor, video capture resolution of 4K/60p, 2.7K/120p, and 1080/240p make it supreme for crystal clear videography.
Starting from GoPro, we see image stabilization getting included in Go Pros, and this GoPro Hero 8 takes a step even further by giving you a HyperSmooth 2.0 video stabilization. Which will take care of all the vibration and camera shakes you might encounter in your handheld action shots.
DESIGN:
Firstly it is very small and also very compact. The outer case is made of premium silicone rubber, making it durable. It has a display on its front and a big touchscreen on the backside.
It has got three internal mics that are wind resistant. So, even if you are shooting in airy conditions, you will not have any unwanted noise interference.
When it comes to the camera controls, there is a power button on the left and a shutter button on the top. You needn't have to purchase the mounting fingers separately, as it is included in this camera's setup itself.
PERFORMANCE:
Though Hero 9 is recommended for professionals. Beginners who don't want to spend more on a camera can think most of this GoPro Hero 8. Its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity makes wireless file transfer very easy.
Note that the viewfinder is not optical. Rather it is a digital viewfinder. So you can directly view the images and videos recorded on the CCD (Charged-coupled device).
Quik Editor, which is GoPro famous editing tool, is also usable with this camera. Use this app on your GoPro Hero 8 to control the playback speed and set different image filters.
And most importantly, while shooting vlogs while traveling on the road, you might be interested in taking a time warp shot. In that case, this camera will help you because it has a Time Warp 2.0 function.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMERA:
5. DJI OSMO ACTION - BEST TRAVEL CAMERA UNDER 300
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
If you want a dupe version of a GoPro camera, here it is. DJI OSMO ACTION cameras provide almost the same feature as Go Pro cameras only thing is that they are half the price of GoPro camera models.
Like the GoPro Hero 8 camera listed above, this is also waterproof. But the interesting fact is its waterproof capacity is more (up to 36 feet). So, if you are looking for a budget underwater camera, there could be no best camera like this.
DESIGN:
It looks almost the same as the previous camera. It retains the rectangular shape with a dark rubberized case covering the entire camera.
Apart from usually having a back-lit screen, this camera has also got a 1.4-inch screen on the camera's front. This will help check the subject you are focusing on is in the frame.
You are asking how will this be useful for you? Well, it's about selfies. Obviously, while taking selfie pictures, you will need a front-facing camera, and in that case, this front screen of the camera becomes handy.
You can use ND filters and polarizers on this camera if you wish to improve the image quality.
PERFORMANCE:
Unlike the GoPro Hero 8, which captures videos at three different resolutions, this camera provides two video capture formats. Namely: 4K @60 fps and 1080p @240 fps.
In the Go Pro Hero 8 we saw that the camera has Hyper Smooth 2.0 video stabilization. So let's see if this DJI Osmo Action camera includes this feature.
Well, yes, there is! DJI's electronic image stabilization is how the Company calls its IS feature. However, the work they do remains the same. It will help you get sharper and vibration-free videos and still photographs.
Hence, if you are a beginner travel vlogger looking for an inexpensive travel camera under 300, this is worth trying!
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMERA:
BEST VIDEO CAMERAS UNDER 300
7. PANASONIC FULL HD - BEST CAMCORDER UNDER 300
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
If you are looking for a low light camera under 300 for shooting videos, then this is my first and the best pick for you. Why I am saying, this is because the in-built lens of the camera has an aperture range of f/1.8 - f/4.2. If you see, the maximum aperture of this is f1.8 which means it will give your brighter footage even in low-lights.
DESIGN:
5-axis stabilization is what is guaranteed by this camera. You can switch on this feature and also turn on the Live Shot Function. Now, these two will work together to give you that crisp, clear blur-free video.
There are numerous HD video cameras available in the market; however, this Panasonic camcorder is unique because you can shoot videos in different styles. Yes, there are Built-in Creative Control modes in this camera that will allow you to shoot with Miniature Effects and also capture time-lapse videos, Silent movies, and 8mm Movies.
PERFORMANCE:
Say you want a camera for shooting live concerts videos of your favorite performer; you just need to take this camcorder in your hand, that's it. It will allow you to capture high-definite videos at a 1080p @ 60 fps resolution rate.
The Level Shot function works impressively. It automatically detects the changes in the subject's (what you are trying to focus) movements and adjusts the images accordingly.
For tacking tack sharp images videos at night, you just need to slow down the aperture between 1/30 - 1/8000 seconds; that's it. Not only will your videos be blur-free also your footage will look brighter by doing so.
The camera, without a doubt, shows good optical performance, but it lacks one feature, which is Wi-Fi connectivity. So, you cannot do wireless file transfer via a smartphone app. You can only use SD cards for file transfer.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMERA:
8. SEREE 48MP DIGITAL ZOOM CAMCORDER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
FEATURES:
As beginners, you will want to explore more filters in a HD video camera, like adding unique filters and go for a camcorder that is able to track even faster movements efficiently.
So, to pacify this set of beginner-level videographers, I have come up with this 48 MP Seree digital camcorder. It has got a 16x optical zoom which will cover the subject even from a distance. So, if you are on a party, concert, or even a family vacation, taking this camcorder along with you will add so much fun.
DESIGN:
Unlike the previous camcorder, which lacked Wi-Fi connectivity, this camera fulfills your desire by providing an in-built W-Fi technology. However, this camera isn't image stabilized. But this shouldn't stop you from purchasing this camera because this kit comes with a Handheld stabilizer.
PERFORMANCE:
This camera has many in-built features, including motion detection, loop recording, and auto-smile features. You can transfer files wirelessly from this camera using the "XDV PRO" app.
You can also use this video camera as a webcam by just using a USB cable and connecting it to your computer or Mac. This package comes with an external flash mechanism, 64 GB SD card, remote control, and a camera pouch.
Most people use this camcorder use this camera to shoot time-lapse videos of the sunset or track the growth stages of a seed to a plant for their garden vlogs and YouTube content.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMERA:
WHAT TO LOOK WHILE BUYING A GOOD CAMERA UNDER 300
There are several features you need to consider while getting a budget camera. I have tried to cover most of the important factors below. Please read them carefully before making a final decision.
1. ZOOM RANGE OF THE LENS
If it was a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, you could update the camera with new lenses. However, note that point-and-shoot, bridge, video, and action cameras have fixed lenses (you cannot mount a separate lens onto them). This means you need to see if the zoom range of the camera's lens will be suitable for your photography/videography.
NOTE: Basically, there are two types of zoom: optical zoom and digital zoom. As per my photography experience, optical zooming is better. In this method, the glasses inside the lens move to enlarge the image hitting the sensor.
2. sensor size & resolution
I know in DSLR and other mirrorless cameras, we make a purchase seeing this criterion. Because we think the larger the sensor, the more good the image quality will be. But that's not true in the case of fixed-lens digital cameras. So, even if the particular camera has a smaller sensor, its image and video quality can still be crisp and clear.
As we are restricting to only budget cameras here, you may not find very high-resolution products. But for beginners, even a 16MP digital camera will give you the necessary results.
3. image stabilization
Suppose you don't want to carry additional handheld Image stabilizers for your day-to-day photo and video shoots. Then I would highly recommend purchasing a digital camera that has in-body stabilization in it. Most digital cameras provide 5-axis stabilization meaning the sensor mounted on the plate will move in five different directions and compensates for camera shakes.
4. VIDEO CAPTURE RESOLUTION
These cameras are often used for shooting videos at birthday parties and other celebrations. In that, you will want a camera that will shoot videos at a higher resolution. Thankfully, most cameras listed here deliver 4k Ultra HD video outputs.
However, cameras that show a 1080p Full HD resolution are also a good buying choice. Though they are old video standards, they still work fine in delivering grain-free footage.
Note: You also need to look at the frame rate (FPS) of the camera. Frame rate is nothing but a measure of how many shots per second the camera can capture. So higher the frame rate better the video quality will be, and provisions to make slow-motion video effects are also better. With that said, The most common industry standard for shooting videos is 24 FPS.
5. SIZE AND WEIGHT
Portability is what every photography enthusiast longs for. And the best part about these budget-friendly cameras is that they are very pocket-friendly. You will only feel like your carrying a smartphone when you're carrying a 16MP basic camera along with you.
6. ISO RANGE
If you are looking for a camera to shoot in low-lighting conditions, you have to pay careful attention to this feature. ISO value will tell how sensitive the camera's sensor is to the light. So, for dimly-lit conditions, you need to have a higher ISO range.
But unfortunately, as these are 300 dollar cameras only, we can't expect a dynamic ISO range like expensive DSLRs. But for getting decent quality bright shots, an ISO range of I00-3200 will do.
7. Wi-Fi and Touch screen
If you are a busy person who doesn't like doing manual file transfer with HDMI ports and SD cards, then Wi-fi enabled cameras will be best for you. They will also help you to share your images and videos through smartphones apps instantly.
Secondly, cameras that have a touch screen facility will make your photography and video sessions much easier because you can control all the camera settings with a single touch.
CONCLUSION
That's about it. we have come to the end of this list. I hope you found this article useful. Before giving a wrap I again want to mention that the cameras listed under this list are only less than 300$. So, you will not get top-notch results as that of DSLR. But for beginners who are just looking for a go-to camera for shooting birthday parties or wanting a budget friendly travel camera can make the most out of these.
