As photography companies continue to follow market demands, hybrid camera bodies are becoming the norm. These new bodies are suited for doing 4K or better video and built for speed and accuracy when shooting stills.
Therefore, we decided to review the best 4K cameras that are currently available.
As to the fact that these reviews are mostly technical, and would require a book to provide all of the specifics, we will give a general overview. This will consist of our first impressions of the camera body and its functionality, relevant information about significant video capabilities, and final thoughts about the particular camera.
This said, let’s review some of the top 4k cameras the market has to offer.
Contents
- 1 Top 10 Best 4K Cameras Reviews
- 1.1 1 Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only)Â – Best 4K Camera for Street Photography
- 1.2 2 Nikon Z6 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Body – Best 4K Nikon Camera
- 1.3 3 Panasonic Lumix S1H Digital Mirrorless Video Camera – Best 4K Hybrid Video Camera
- 1.4 4 anasonic LUMIX S1 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera – Best Ergonomic 4K Camera
- 1.5 5 Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Camera – Most Versatile 4K Camera
- 1.6 6 Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera – Best 4K Camera for Vloggers
- 1.7 7 Olympus PEN E-PL9Â – Best Social Media 4K Camera
- 1.8 8 Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K – Best Value for the Money 4K Camera for Canon Lenses
- 1.9 9 Panasonic Lumix G9 Mirrorless Camera – Best User-Friendly 4K Camera
- 1.10 10 Sony Alpha a7 III Full-Frame Mirrorless Digital Camera – Best 4K Camera for Internet Media Creators
- 2 Best 4K Camera Buying Guide
- 3 So, what is the Best 4k Camera?
Top 10 Best 4K Cameras Reviews
1 Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only)Â – Best 4K Camera for Street Photography
First Impressions…
Although this camera may look like much hasn’t changed from prior models, if you are familiar with the X-T2, the Fujifilm X-T3 brings with it a huge leap forward.
It is a modern camera in a retro-style body. The body is rugged, made of magnesium alloy, and is weather-sealed. It is fitted with manual dials. They are completely customizable in ways that make working through the menus and making adjustments fun. Please note that there are completely separate settings when shooting stills or video.
The important bits…
Metering is done through the lens (TTL). It has 256 zones. And you have the option for multi, spot, average, or center-weighted exposure settings. The autofocus has single-point, zone, and wide/tracking modes to cover all types and situations of shooting.
It is enhanced by the X-Processor 4-processing engine that improves the ability to track moving objects as well as boost the speed and accuracy of the autofocus system. Selecting your focal point(s) or zone can be done on the tilting LCD touchscreen.
The X-T3 is capable of DCI 4K (cinematic quality) and 4K video at 60fps with minimal artifacting. The lower ISO of the processing engine creates a noticeable improvement in image quality over the previous versions.
Final thoughts…
With all of the improvements and other enhancements, the X-T3 has become a challenger to the bigger players in the 4k camera game. It is almost perfect for studio video and street photography. The fact that it does not have image stabilization simply makes it a budget-friendly consideration.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Fujifilm X-mount
- Sensor: 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4
- 4k Video: Up to 60p
- Image Stabilization: No
- Connectivity: Built-in wi-fi, mHDMI type D
- Autofocus: 425-point hybrid AF system
- Display: 3.0″ tilting touch-screen LCD 1.04mdots/Optical viewfinder
- Dimensions: 5.22 x 3.61 x 1.94in.
- Weight: 1.19lb
(4.8 / 5)Pros
- Has both microphone and headphone jacks.
- New higher resolution sensor.
- Autofocus is fast and accurate.
Cons
- No image stabilization.
- The LCD doesn’t fully articulate.
2 Nikon Z6 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Body – Best 4K Nikon Camera
Ergonomic in design and with a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, the Nikon Z6 has a nice presence in the hand. It has all the bells and whistles one could hope for, such as 5-axis stabilization, a hybrid autofocus system, and a control joystick.
By purchasing an FTZ adapter, you will be able to use any Nikon lens. And the camera will compensate for the difference of 3-axis to 5-axis stabilization.
What is on the inside?
The BSI-CMOS sensor, in combination with the Expeed 6 processor, improves the speed while in continuous shooting mode. This, combined with the 273 phase-detect point/contrast hybrid autofocus system, makes this an exceptionally fast and accurate camera.
The Z6 shoots UHD 4K video at 30p and is capable of slow-motion at 120p. For cinematic quality, you will have to work with the combination of the 4k and 10-bit 4:2:2 N-Log HDMI output.
What is the verdict?
If you are a die-hard Nikon user and looking to go mirrorless, then this is the camera for you. But don’t expect this to work as well as your DSLR because this is new territory, and things are different.
Overall, this is a great camera, with some minor issues that can be overcome. You can find workarounds or wait for firmware updates that are provided by Nikon.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Nikon Z-mount
- Sensor: 25Mp Full-frame BSI-CMOS + Expeed 6
- 4k Video: UHD 4k at 30p + 10 bit 4:2:2 N-Log mHDMI
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Connectivity: SnapBridge Wifi +Bluetooth
- Autofocus: Hybrid AF with 273point phase-detect
- Display:2.1M dot tilting touch LCD/3.69M dot viewfinder/Top plate OLED display
- Dimensions: 5.3 x 4 x 2.7in.
- Weight: 1.29lb
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- 5-axis Image Stabilization.
- 12fps in RAW format.
Cons
- Need FTZ adapter to use older lenses.
- Third party lenses may not work.
- NEF files may not work with some editing software.
3 Panasonic Lumix S1H Digital Mirrorless Video Camera – Best 4K Hybrid Video Camera
What is it, really?
It is all in the name, ‘Mirrorless Video Camera.’ The Lumix S1H is in a different ballpark when it comes to video.
A sturdy weather-sealed body with an internal cooling fan in the back allows for longer video shoots. All of the video-centric elements put into and around the camera almost guarantee that you will never shoot a still photograph… even though you can.
What is special about it?
The S1H operates on a full-frame 24.2MP CMOS sensor that is working in tandem with an updated Venus Engine. The autofocus operates using a 225 contrast-point detection system and appears to be weak in low contrast settings. There are several methods of metering and many that are specific to video.
All of these can be monitored using the 5.76M dot OLED viewfinder or the 2.33M dot touch LCD. As a bonus, the camera comes with a top plate OLED that allows you to move around while shooting.
The video features several professional packages and shooting modes. Video can be shot in 6K at 24p in a 3:2 format, but most likely will be used in DCI 4K at 30p or UHD 4K at 50p.
Final words…
I am not going to pull punches. This is a camera at the highest price point for hybrid mirrorless cameras. And it has some issues with focusing, which you will have to workaround.
On the other hand, you are getting a high-end professional video camera at a very low price point. The SH1 outshines mirrorless hybrids when it comes to shooting video.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Leica L
- Sensor: 24.2MP Full-frame CMOS sensor + updated Venus Engine
- 4k Video: 6K at 24p(3:2), DCI 4K at 30p and UHD4K at 50p
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Connectivity:Wifi + Bluetooth
- Autofocus: 225 contrast point detection
- Display: 2.33M dot articulating, tilting, touch LCD, 5.76Mdot OLED EVF, Top plate OLED display
- Dimensions: 5.94 x 4.5 x 4.35in./ 151 x 114.2 x 110.4mm
- Weight: 2.56lb/1164
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Dedicated video camera quality.
- VFR/HFR video.
- Full V-Log gamma profile (matches VariCam).
Cons
- Autofocus issues.
4 anasonic LUMIX S1 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera – Best Ergonomic 4K Camera
First impression…
This camera has a solid and hearty weather-sealed body that feels more like a DSLR in your hand than a standard mirrorless camera.
The Lumix S1 is user friendly. It has a 5-axis internal image stabilizing system and great data saving/ transfer options. It even has the option of using USB-C (3.0) to transfer images and charge the battery at the same time. Connect it to a computer, and you can work all day.
What separates it from the rest?
Working with a full-frame 24.2MP CMOS sensor and Venus Engine processor, the Lumix S1 is fast! The autofocus works using an advanced Depth from Defocus contrast-detection system and comes with the standard metering options.
The video is UHD 4K at 60p, which can be enhanced with 4:2:2 10Bit mHDMI output. It also comes with some of Panasonic’s dedicated video software, making it more like a professional video camera.
Final thoughts…
There are two things about this system that I don’t like. First, older Leica lenses will not work. This means you have to buy newer versions. Secondly, it has an unreliable autofocus system. It is great when there is good or better contrast but seems to slip when contrast is low or flat.
If you are comfortable working manual focus, I feel that this would be a hard camera to beat. It is going to work great in both still and video modes.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Leica L-mount
- Sensor: 24.2MP Full-frame CMOS sensor + Venus Engine
- 4k Video: UHD 4K at 60p; 4:2:2 10 bit
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Connectivity: USB-C 3.0, Wifi and Bluetooth
- Autofocus: advanced Depth from Defocus contrast-detection
- Display: 3.2” 2.1M dot tilting LCD touch; OLED EVF
- Dimensions: 5.9 x 4.3 x 3.8”/148.9 x 110 x 96.7mm
- Weight: 2.25lb/1021g
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- In-body stabilization.
- Easy data transfer.
Cons
- Unreliable AF system.
- Older Leica lenses won’t work.
5 Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Camera – Most Versatile 4K Camera
Something truly overlooked…
This is a professional’s working camera and an enthusiast’s dream. The Olympus OM-D Mark II is a weatherized, compact, and remarkably light workhorse. With a handful of unique functions and the TruePic VIII quad-processor, it is ideal for shooting sports and stop-action stills.
An in-body 5-axis stabilization system works with a dual-phase autofocus system, making sure that your images are consistently sharp.
Nothing is over the top…
The autofocus is a dual 121-point cross-type phase-detection and 121-point contrast-detection system. It is fast, accurate, and works well in all lighting conditions. The detection points aren’t as high as you might find in some cameras, but the OM-D Mark II shows that 121 points are more than enough.
This camera can be controlled through the 3-inch screen. An articulating LCD touch panel LCD makes shooting video a snap.
The video performance is solid and what you would expect from a camera like this. You can shoot UHD 4K at 30p and cinematic quality DCI 4K at 24p.
Final thoughts…
If you aren’t opposed to working with a micro 4/3 format, this just might be the camera to look into (pun intended). It has all the bases covered and then some. It is a true workhorse good for both professionals and enthusiasts, for studio and outdoor work.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Micro 4/3
- Sensor: 20.4MP 4/3 Live MOS + TruePic VIII quad-processor.
- 4k Video: DCI 4K at 24p; UHD 4K at 30p.
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Connectivity: Wifi; USB-C (2.0)
- Autofocus: Phase Detection 121 cross-type with 121 contrast detection
- Display: 3in. 1.03M dot articulating LCD touch; 2.36M dot EVF
- Dimensions: 5.3 x 3.6 x 2.7”/134.1 x 90.9 x 68.9mm
- Weight: 1.26lb/574g
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- A number of unique functions.
- Fast, accurate, autofocus.
Cons
- Micro 4/3 format.
6 Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera – Best 4K Camera for Vloggers
An enthusiast’s delight…
Lightweight, this camera comes packed with one of the best over-all autofocus systems available on the market. I’ll write more about this later. The Sony Alpha a6400 is versatile and has many of the same capabilities as its bigger full-framed cousins. It is ideal for travel vloggers and some enthusiasts.
Why it’s great…
Now, about the autofocus. The system works with 425-point phase and contrast-detection systems. This allows for operating in a myriad of conditions. It isn’t that the AF system has different capabilities than other camera systems. It is that Sony has integrated them to be worked together and to flow smoothly between techniques.
You can use the 3-inch touchscreen LCD to monitor and set up your shot, as well as the 2M dot viewfinder.
The video capabilities are standard, where you can shoot UHD 4K at 24p up to 30p depending on MBs (Megabytes per second).
A nice traveler…
This is a good camera that will give you nice sharp images and good video. It is made for a certain market and fits well within it. With the autofocus system and a few perks from its higher-end cousins, this is a perfect camera for an enthusiast that wants to have fun.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Sony E-mount
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS + BIONZ X processor
- 4k Video: UHD 4K at 24p up to 30p
- Image Stabilization: No
- Connectivity: Wifi; mHDMI
- Autofocus: 425-point phase detection with 425 point contrast detection
- Display: 3in. 0.9M dot tilting LCD touchscreen/ 2M dot VF display
- Dimensions:4.7 x 2.6 x 2.4”/120 x 66.9 x 59.7mm
- Weight: 14.22oz/403g
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- Real-time Eye AF.
- Great low-light capabilities.
Cons
- Rolling shutter.
- Menu difficulty.
- No IBIS.
7 Olympus PEN E-PL9Â – Best Social Media 4K Camera
Looking for a camera upgrade?
The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is for the point-and-shoot or smartphone camera user who wants to upgrade. It is light, fits in the pocket, and comes with an art filters mode. You can also flip the LCD downward by 180 degrees. It makes getting the perfect selfie a breeze, and it’s ideal for the modern social media personality.
How it creates more presence…
The autofocus system uses a 121-point contrast-detection system, which by itself isn’t the standard for today’s cameras. However, it is not much of an issue with quick focusing lenses. The Olympus PEN E-PL9 doesn’t come with a viewfinder, so all of the focusing and setup is done through the LCD and buttons on the back of the body.
Surprisingly, the video can be shot in UHD 4K at 30p. It also comes with the capability to shoot different effects at lower resolutions.
Who would use it?
If you prefer to have a camera better than the one your phone is equipped with, to grab moments for your social media posts, this camera just might be your winning ticket. The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a good camera for this niche market. It was built for use like your phone’s camera, by using the touchscreen to focus and by using effects that can be added while shooting.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Micro 4/3
- Sensor: 16.1MP 4/3 Live MOS + TruePIC VII processor
- 4k Video: UHD 4K at 30p
- Image Stabilization: 3-axis shift IS
- Connectivity: Wifi; Bluetooth
- Autofocus: 121-point contrast detection
- Display: 3in. 1.04M dot tilting LCD touchscreen
- Dimensions:4.6 x 2.7 x 1.5”/117.1 x 68 x 39mm
- Weight: 13.4oz/380g
(4.2 / 5)Pros
- In-camera art filters options.
- Easily fits in a pocket.
Cons
- Unsturdy build.
- Buttons are difficult to operate.
8 Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K – Best Value for the Money 4K Camera for Canon Lenses
What is Blackmagic?
This camera is video-centric. And all of its bells and whistles are focused that way. But do not worry. If you find yourself needing to get a still shot, it is more than capable of getting the job done.
The carbon fiber polycarbonate body gives the Blackmagic DPCC a rather low-quality look. It is anything but low-quality. The body is made of a material that most high-end lens barrels are made of and can withstand some punishment. It may also feel a bit awkward when hand-holding, due to its odd size.
Movie magic…
The 1920 x 1080 resolution of the 5” LCD touchscreen helps you check or change your settings, as well as choose your focus. Center-weighted focus can be accomplished by pressing the release button halfway.
The video capabilities are simply amazing. You can shoot 6K at 50p, and DCI 4K and other resolutions up to 60p, depending upon the MBs (megabytes per second). Storage and transfer of data have several different options and is easily accomplished.
The benefits of Blackmagic…
The Blackmagic DPCC is an interesting system that uses Canon EF-mount lenses and gives you access to DaVinci Resolve Studio for post-production matters. You are getting an excellent cinematic video camera at a relatively low price point. If you are more into video than stills, this camera is worth a look.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Canon EF – mount
- Sensor: Super 35 CMOS/21.2MP for stills
- 4k Video: 6K at 50p and DCI 4K
- Image Stabilization: No
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C
- Display: 3in. 1.04M dot tilting LCD touchscreen
- Dimensions:4.6 x 2.7 x 1.5”/117.1 x 68 x 39mm
- Weight: 13.4oz/380g
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- Records to SSD.
- Access to DaVinci Resolve Studio.
Cons
- Appearance.
- Autofocus system.
9 Panasonic Lumix G9 Mirrorless Camera – Best User-Friendly 4K Camera
What it’s all about?
The magnesium alloy body has been changed for this Panasonic model. It has the addition of a top plate LCD and better weatherization. The grip has also been altered to be a bit deeper to better fit in the hand and make using the controls easier. This is a rugged-feeling camera that is built to be used anywhere.
The Lumix G9 is geared more for still photography and comes with many new features and functions. Not to worry, though, as the G9 is highly capable of shooting UHD 4K video.
How it works…
The autofocus uses Advanced Depth from a Defocus 225-point contrast-detection system. This means that the camera can make necessary adjustments and refocus within 0.04 seconds. This is most beneficial when shooting in continuous mode. The AF system has many other features that help the photographer make precise focus, focus on a zone, or do other tricks.
The 3” articulating touchscreen LCD and the 3.86 M dot EVF are easy ways to establish your shot and track your settings. The G9 also has a top plate backlit LCD to make monitoring the settings for video a breeze.
The G9 can shoot UHD 4K at 60p and has many other video capabilities depending upon the use of MBs.
Final thoughts…
This is a well-rounded camera that is meant to be used. The controls and menus are easy and intuitive. The back LCD and EVF are easy to read and comfortable on the eyes.
Every camera has its weaknesses, and so does the G9. However, if you enjoy using manual focus on occasion, and don’t mind a 4/3 format, this camera is highly worth considering.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Micro 4/3
- Sensor: 20.3MP LiveMOS + Venus Engine processor
- 4k Video: UHD 4K at 60p + 4:2:2 8-bit out
- Image Stabilization: 5-axis sensor shift
- Connectivity: Wifi, Bluetooth, USB-C (3.0)
- Autofocus:Advanced Depth from Defocus 225 point contrast
- Display: 3in. 1.04M dot articulating LCD touchscreen, 3.86M dot EVF, Top plate LCD
- Dimensions:5.4 x 3.8 x 3.6”/136.9 x 97.3 x 91.6mm
- Weight: 1.27lb/579g
(4.2 / 5)Pros
- Features a night mode.
- Allows for 4K video.
- Top plate LCD
- Starlight AF feature.
Cons
- The camera functioning is a bit noisy.
- AF may have issues in low-contrast lighting.
10 Sony Alpha a7 III Full-Frame Mirrorless Digital Camera – Best 4K Camera for Internet Media Creators
How has it been improved?
The Sony Alpha a7III is a big upgrade from its previous version and comes with many bells and whistles. These features greatly improve the systems in the camera and improve the overall use.
The body and dials have been beefed up for easier handling and control, and a joystick has been added to help navigate the options. The a7III is now capable of using Sony A-mount lenses, which greatly increases the variety and range that one can shoot.
Why this is great…
The hybrid autofocus system uses phase and contrast detection to keep images sharp and in-focus while moving. Sony has done a great job integrating the focusing methods and making sure they work smoothly together.
The controls and settings can be done on the tilting 3” touchscreen 0.92M dot LCD, and settings can be viewed through the 2.36M dot EVF.
Although not the best in this group of cameras, the video capabilities, are quite impressive. It allows 4K video in UHD at 30p and has HLG & S-Log3 gammas abilities.
Reasons to own it…
This is a very popular camera and for good reason. Sony is one of the leaders in the field of mirrorless cameras, and it has many different models for a variety of users. The Alpha a7 III is perfect for internet-media creators and vloggers. This is a camera that can be used for many years before needing to be upgraded.
Specifications
- Lens mount: Sony E
- Sensor: 24MP Full-frame Exmor BSI CMOS + BIONZ X processor
- 4k Video: UHD 4K at 30p +HLG & S-Log3 gammas
- Image Stabilization: 5-axis SteadyShot INSIDE sensor shift
- Connectivity: Wifi, Bluetooth, USB-C (3.0)
- Autofocus: 643 phase-detection points, 425 contrast detection areas
- Display: 3in. 0.92M dot tilting LCD touchscreen, 2.36M dot EVF
- Dimensions:5 x 3.8 x 2.9”/126.9 x 95.6 x 73.7mm
- Weight: 1.43lb/650g
(5 / 5)Pros
- Can adapt A-mount lenses.
- Great autofocus system.
Cons
- Battery charger/cable holder is not included.
- Difficult to navigate menus.
- Weak EVF.
Best 4K Camera Buying Guide
If you are in the market for a hybrid camera body that will do both still photography and 4k video, there is a lot to be considered. Mostly, it boils down to your intentions of use. Some of the bodies are built with an emphasis on the video aspects. Others are weighted toward still photography. Some cameras strike a nice balance.
These hybrids are mirrorless. And it should be noted that the old-guard camera brands are fairly new to the game. The technology, functionality, and ease of use may not be on par with what you are used to with DSLR camera bodies, though this is quickly changing.
What’s Most Important?
Many think that the number of megapixels is the most important spec for a camera. True; it has its importance when speaking about frames per second and file types. However, the reality is that most, if not all, sensors have more than enough pixels to cover most professionals’ needs.
The metering and autofocus systems for any type of camera are an extremely important aspect to consider. How the camera can track the object while it is moving, or stay in-focus if you change the focal length, can make or break the image or video
With this, you also have to think about the lenses and how they operate.
Questions to ask about Lenses…
- What focal lengths do I need to cover, for my interests?
- Does it have a true-manual focus, or is it focus-by-wire?
- What type of autofocus motor?
- Does the lens barrel extend for focal length, or is it fixed with internal focusing?
- Does it have image stabilization?
These are important questions, and the correct answer for each lies in what is best for your intended use. Do your homework.
How to shop for a High Quality 4K Camera System…
Before settling on a specific camera brand — because it is what you like, are used to working with, or have heard that it’s the be-all of 4k cameras — ask yourself some serious questions. What is the intended use of this 4k camera system? What is your budget for a camera body and one or two lenses?
Take these answers down to your local dealer and give them the information. They will be able to narrow down your options considerably, and you can further research from that point.
Interested in exploring other Camera options?
If so, we recommend you check out a few of our other reviews, such as our Best Mirrorless Cameras Reviews, our Best Compact Cameras Reviews, our Best Instant Cameras Reviews, our Best Camcorders Reviews, our Best Camera Phone Reviews, our Best GoPro Camera Reviews, and our Best Mirrorless Cameras Reviews in 2023.
So, what is the Best 4k Camera?
Judging from our above reviews, the number of 4K cameras available covers the entire spectrum of users. It is, therefore, difficult to choose, which is the ideal 4K camera.
It is impossible to get exactly what you want. However, with the newer camera generations and brands entering the market, it’s getting easier to find that perfect camera for you.
From our list above, the most obvious choices are the…
Sony Alpha a7 III or the FujiFilm X-T3
This is because they are both very capable in still and video formats.
For one of the best mirrorless 4K cameras, we are going to choose an underrated brand, and that’s the…
This is because it is as or more capable than the first two in our lineup. This is for its comprehensive offering of ruggedness, still photography features, video capabilities, and its overall usefulness.
That was a lot of information. But we hope this comprehensive review provides you with a foundation for choosing the best quality 4k camera for your needs.
Time to go capture some special moments.
