Best 4K Camcorder Under 500

Do you want to record ultra high resolution videos at the lowest price possible? Are you thinking to start a video channel but you have a limited budget? If this is the case, you need the best 4K camcorder under 500 that is heavy on performance and low in price!

In this article, you will learn about the 10 best camcorders under $500 in 2021. You will also gain insight into the following topics:

• Uses of a camcorder
• Features to look for in camcorders
• How to find the best budget 4K camcorder?
• Buying Guide
• Frequently Asked Questions

Due to the development of social media and video sharing platforms, people are becoming more interested in making videos and posting them on the Internet. This has become a source of earning for millions of people all around the world. To make videos, you need a good camera that is specially designed to capture moving scenes. Therefore, camcorders are great devices that can help you record high quality videos. Today, you have so many products available on the market that it is really difficult to choose the best budget 4K camcorder. To help you in this issue, we have compiled this guide so let’s start with it.

How did the camcorders develop?

Historically, video cameras used to be large, bulky devices that consisted of the recording equipment only. They did not have any storage disk built in and it had to be attached separately. The need for a single system for both recording and storing the videos was identified which led to the development of the first camcorder by Sony in 1983. The initial devices used cassettes to store the data.

With time, hard drives were used in magnetic and solid state formats. The advancement in digital technology led to the camcorders being more portable and compact as flash drives and memory cards could be used to store the videos. The last decade has brought the 3D and 4K video camcorders that have various other functions in a single device.

Why do you need a camcorder?

The primary purpose of camcorders is to record videos. However, video making is a wide field so we shall look at the specific areas where camcorders are being used today.

• Filmmaking- No movie is possible without video recording equipment. Therefore, camcorders are the primary source of video making in films, TV shows or any other media. Special camcorders are used along with various other equipment to produce the cinematic effects that you see in films.
• Recording online videos/Vlogs- This is the new trend these days. Everybody is trying to become a vlogger and content creator on platforms like YouTube. People use camcorders to record daily videos which can be of any topic in life. The demand for camcorders has increased significantly due to the growth in YouTubers.
• Education/Research- Many educational institutions and individuals use camcorders to record video lectures, tutorials, project videos, presentations and similar stuff that is used to teach students on different topics. Students prefer the best cheap camcorders to assist them in their education.

Quick Comparison

Image	Product	Features	Check Price
	Ordro 4K Camcorder	Touch LCD screen	Check Price
	DJI Osmo Action	Multiple recording modes	Check Price
	Canon Vixia Hf	1080p video recording	Check Price
	Camcorder 4K	48 MP resolution is very high	Check Price
	Sony Handycam	High zoom option	Check Price
	Kicteck Video Camera	3 inch display that can be rotated	Check Price
	Canon Vixia Hf R80	Mobile application support	Check Price
	Zohulu 4K	Several modes for videos & images	Check Price
	AitecHhny 4K	Rotate able screen	Check Price
	Panasonic 4K	Dual cameras on device	Check Price

10 Best 4K Camcorder Under 500

1- ORDRO 4K Camcorder

The ORDRO camcorder is a 24 megapixel, 4K video recording camera that comes with a Sony IMX258 sensor. It operates in 13 MP in normal conditions and has advanced Exmor technology that will automatically adjust the settings of the surroundings. It uses the image processing software to enhance the colours of the scenes. If you are shooting at night, the camcorder has infrared night vision system to produce clear photos without any light. Priced at $300, this is one of the best low light camcorders. Users can view the videos and photos on the 3.1 inch LCD screen which has a touch interface and is rotate able as well.

You will get different options for connectivity on this device. There are the traditional USB, HDMI and SD card spots which help in transferring and viewing the data on large screens. If you like to connect it wirelessly, you can use the in-built Wi-Fi to sync the device with the “D video” mobile application. This will allow you to view, modify and share the videos within few seconds.

Capture breathtaking slow motion and time lapse scenes of nature with the ORDRO camcorder to make memories out of every moment. You get lots of accessories with the camera such as a carrying pouch, hand stabilizer, lens, lights, connection cables, remote control and charging equipment. Overall, it is an excellent device loaded with features!

2- DJI Osmo Action

Small and powerful, the DJI Osmo Action is one of the best 4K camcorders that you can buy today. It is designed to provide maximum stability in every environment that you use it. It has a 12 MP sensor and you can use it to record 4K videos with HDR support. You can record slow moving scenes at 8x zoom so that you do not miss a single detail. The best part is that the device is fully waterproof so you can easily use it underwater till a depth of 11 m. With just 2.6 inches in size, it can easily be mounted on sticks, helmets or stands so you can record while you are busy in sports or some other activity.

Vloggers will find this device particularly appealing because it is ideal for shooting travel videos due to its compact size. There are 2 screens so you can view the recordings from any side. There are different modes to help you in various outdoor conditions.

You can even control this camera through voice recognition which makes it convenient for adventurous people to shoot on the go. The accessories are plentiful including camera case, stick handle, mount and USB C cable. This camcorder costs only $260 which is great deal for such a well rounded device.

3- Canon Vixia HF Camcorder

If you like a simple and efficient camcorder, this device by Canon will do your job very well. Built in the traditional video camera style, it can full 1080p videos with up to 57 times zoom option. The sensor is 3.28 MP which is a bit low but produces decent images. The internal processor is very powerful as it computes extremely fast and clear videos. Users can view them on the 3 inch screen which can be rotated to 180 degrees to increase the viewing pleasure. The data can be shared using the USB cables to your computers or other devices.

Costing $329, this is one the top camcorders under 500. You can choose from various shooting modes like slow motion, night vision, landscape and custom modes. This changes the camera settings to optimise the performance. Users get a whole list of items when they purchase this camera. This includes a 64 GB memory card, camera bag, tripod stand, spare battery and connection cables. With this much accessories, this is a deal which you should not miss by any chance.

4- Camcorder 4K

This device is a 48 megapixel video recording camera which can shoot 4K videos with 18x zoom option. It has advanced Exmor technology that will automatically adjust the settings of the surroundings. It uses the image processing software to enhance the colours of the scenes. If you are shooting at night, the camcorder has night vision system to produce clear photos without any light. Priced at $140, this is one of the best affordable camcorders. Users can view the videos and photos on the 3.0 inch LCD screen which can be angled at your choice.

You will get different options for connectivity on this device. There are the traditional USB, HDMI and SD card spots which help in transferring and viewing the data on large screens. If you like to connect it wirelessly, you can use the in-built Wi-Fi to view, modify and share the videos within few seconds.

Capture breathtaking slow motion and time lapse scenes of nature with this camcorder to make memories out of every moment. Users get a remote control which they can use to control the device from as far as 20 meters. This is very useful in taking group photos and selfies where all members need to be together in one photo.

5- Sony Handycam Camcorder

Sony is one brand that you will not ignore while looking at video cameras. This is a stylish camcorder which produces full HD 1080p videos and the ability to zoom up to 27 times. The 30mm Carl Zeiss lens provides lifelike picture quality. The Sony’s CMOS sensor helps in providing excellent light in every scene that you capture. If you like to take still photos, you can use this device for 9.2 MP high quality pictures. Images can be zoomed by 54x which is incredibly high for a camcorder. There is a 2.7 inch LCD screen to view the content in any direction that you move the display.

The camera is loaded in terms of options. These include Steady shots to provide great stabilization, face recognition, intelligent auto which selects the mode automatically according to the surroundings and 7 picture effects to edit the images on device.

Videos can be shot at MP4 format which enhances quality and reduces the size. Connectivity is possible through the USB cable which allows convenient sharing of data to other devices. The device is really light and comfortable to hold which is an important element to consider in video cameras. Priced at $158, this is truly one of the best budget camcorders in 2021.

6- Kicteck Video Camera

This Kickteck camcorder is a 24 megapixel video recording camera which can shoot 1080p videos with 16x zoom option. It has advanced CMOS sensor technology that will automatically adjust the settings of the surroundings. It uses the image processing software to enhance the colours of the scenes. If you are shooting at night, the camcorder has night vision system to produce clear photos without any light. Users can view the videos and photos on the 3.0 inch LCD screen which can be angled till 270 degrees to increase your viewing range.

You can connect this camcorder using USB cable to your computer or any portable device. It can be used a webcam when connected with PC so you do not need to purchase extra cameras for video chatting. The battery life is approximately 1.5 hours which is good enough for single use. Priced at $76 only, this is one of the best low light video camera under 500. Capture breathtaking slow motion and time lapse scenes of nature with this camcorder to make memories out of every moment. If you are short on memory, use the SD cards to increase your storage up to 32 GB.

7- Canon Vixia HF R80 Camcorder

If you like a smart and simple camcorder, this device by Canon will do your job very well. Built in the traditional video camera style, it can full 1080p videos with up to 57 times zoom option. The CMOS sensor works brilliantly in different environments. The internal processor is very powerful as it computes extremely fast and clear videos. Users can view them on the 3 inch touch screen which can be rotated to 180 degrees to increase the viewing pleasure. The maximum recording time is 6 hours due to the in-built memory.

Costing $250, this is one the best 4K video camcorders under 500. You can choose from various shooting modes like slow motion, night vision, landscape and custom modes. This changes the camera settings to optimise the performance.

You will get different options for connectivity on this device. There are the traditional USB, HDMI and audio spots which help in transferring and viewing the data on large screens. If you like to connect it wirelessly, you can use the in-built Wi-Fi or NFC to view, modify and share the videos within few seconds. The Camera Connect application can be used to sync the device with smartphones.

8- ZOHULU 4K Video Camcorder

This device is a 24 MP video camcorder which can shoot 4K videos with 30x zoom option. It has advanced Exmor technology that will automatically adjust the settings of the surroundings. It uses the image processing software to enhance the colours of the scenes. If you are shooting at night, the camcorder has night vision system to produce clear photos without any light. This device costs $280 and it is really one of the best affordable camcorders. Users can view the videos and photos on the 3.1 inch LCD screen which can be angled at your choice.

You will get different options for connectivity on this device. There are the traditional USB, HDMI and SD card spots which help in transferring and viewing the data on large screens. If you like to connect it wirelessly, you can use the in-built Wi-Fi to view, modify and share the videos within few seconds.

Capture breathtaking slow motion and time lapse scenes of nature with this camcorder to make memories out of every moment. This camcorder is specially designed for vloggers so Youtubers should definitely check out this if they are starting a new channel.

9- AiTechny 4K Camcorder

The AiTechny 4K camcorder is one of the best camcorders under 500. It comes with a 48 MP resolution and 16 times digital zoom. The sensor is highly updated with modern technology so the scenes are captures with crystal clear resolution.  It uses the image processing software to enhance the colours of the scenes. If you are shooting at night, the camcorder has infrared night vision system to produce clear photos without any light. Priced at $243.

Users can view the videos and photos on the 3.0 inch LCD screen which can be angled at your choice up to 270 degrees. You will get different options for connectivity on this device. There are the traditional USB, HDMI and SD card spots which help in transferring and viewing the data on large screens.

If you like to connect it wirelessly, you can use the in-built Wi-Fi to view, modify and share the videos within few seconds. Capture breathtaking slow motion and time lapse scenes of nature with this camcorder to make memories out of every moment. The “NovaCam” mobile application is ideal to pair your smartphones with this camcorder and control the settings easily.

10- Panasonic 4K Camcorder

This 4K camcorder is a beast within itself. With its 18.9 MP Leica Dichoma lens, it shoots incredible 4K videos with 25x zoom capability. You can shoot videos with excellent stability as it has 5 axis optical image stabilization system. The great part is that videos can be reduced to 1080p for size and editing purposes which provides good versatility for users. It has an electronic viewfinder to assist in capturing the videos and creating a cinema like experience. Priced at $697, it is one of the best low light camcorders in 2021.

If one camera was not enough for your needs, there is another camera attached on the movable screen component which can be rotated to suit the angles. It can work as a fantastic selfie camera and used for YouTube vlogging and other videos.

Connectivity is not compromised on this device because it has Wi-Fi built in. Simply connect it with your smartphones or computers and enjoy easy sharing of data. If you like to edit on the camcorder itself, there is an option for that so that you modify the videos or photos on the go. Overall, this is one of the most high resolution cameras available with all the features that you could imagine.

Important Factors & Buying Guide

The critical important factors before buying the best budget camcorders are listed below:

• Resolution

First and foremost, cameras are judged in terms of their lens resolution. Although, higher resolution camcorders do produce videos and images with more detail, you need to consider other factors as well. A good resolution must be at least 12 megapixels because you need this much to capture the scenes clearly. Many camcorders are available with as much as 48 MP which suits the still photography more but it will certainly add to the videos as well.

• Zoom option

Believe it or not, many users want good zoom in their camcorders that’s why it is an essential buying factor. Most modern devices come with digital zoom that retains the actual clarity of the videos. This is very useful in outdoor shoots like travel videos, wildlife or nature videos because you may be far away from the actual subject.  Good camcorders have minimum 25-30x zoom so you should look for one that fills these requirements at least.

• Processor

Many users do not research about the internal components of the camcorders. However, they are equally important as the other hardware because you need fast and efficient processing of your videos. The best 4K camcorders are powered by latest processors such as Exmore, DIGIC chips that offers great computation of the heavy videos that you shoot with these devices.

• Connectivity options

After all the video shooting, users need multiple ways to connect with other devices. The traditional methods such as USB and SD card are used but newer forms like Wi-Fi, NFC and mobile application support are used in modern camcorders. In this age of wireless connectivity, you should definitely look for these features in the camcorders that you are purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best affordable camcorder?

There are various options for the best budget camcorders on the market. Few of the devices include:

• Canon Vixia HF R800
• Sony Handycam
• Kicktech Camcorder
• Sony HDR AS 300
• ORDRO 4K Camcorder
• AiTechny Video Camera
• DJI Osmo Action
• Sony FDR X3000
• Zoom Q2N
• ZOHULU 4K Camcorder

2. Should I buy a camcorder or a Go Pro?

Camcorders are generally considered good video cameras for all conditions whereas Go Pros are particularly used for vlogging because they are easily mountable on different places and produce good stabilization in fast changing scenes. However, they have small screens and less connectivity options than camcorders. Therefore, you should buy the products based on your usage.

3. Are camcorders obsolete?

Due to the advancements in smartphones, DSLRs and Go Pros, camcorders may have seen a slight decrease in popularity but they are still used in a lot of places. Professional filmmaking, educational institutions and vloggers use camcorders to record videos on daily basis. People who want great videos with multiple zoom and connectivity options will mostly buy camcorders because they are both affordable and effective for video capture.

4. Is camcorder better than a camera?

A camcorder is aimed at shooting high quality images while a camera specializes in still photos. Although, modern devices can do both functions reasonably well but most people consider cameras such as DSLRs or mirrorless devices to be better than camcorders. They can have multiple attachments for lens which can help in capturing different environments brilliantly. However, if you are a vlogger or make videos regularly, a camcorder is best for you because it is solely designed for the purpose.

Conclusion

In this article, we have dived deep into the 10 best 4K camcorders under 500. The purpose of this guide was to focus on the affordable devices which have good performance and features. Most of the cameras ranged from $200 to $300 which is a decent price to spend on camcorders. All of them come with built in screens, multiple modes, several connectivity options and various other elements. The pros and cons have also been listed to help the user get a summarized data of the camcorders.

We hope that you liked this guide about the best 4K cameras under 500. Please review it carefully before making a purchase decision. Let us know about your thoughts in the comments section below!