Top 7 Best Low Light Video Cameras in 2024: Capture Crisp Videos In The Dark

Capturing good videos in low-light condition can be challenging. I did extensive research to find you the best low light video camera in 2024, and am proud to present you my top 7 choices!

Overview

CameraBest ForPriceRating
Sony Alpha 9 IIBest Overall~$4,500★★★★★
OM-D E-M10 Mark IVBest Budget Option~$800★★★★☆
Nikon D6Highest Quality Camera~$6,500★★★★
Panasonic LUMIX S5IIXBest Value~$2,000★★★
Canon EOS R6 Mark IIBest Canon~$2,300★★★
Nikon D850Best DSLR~$2,500★★★
Sony Alpha 6700Best Framerate~$1,800★★★

Top 7 Best Low Light Video Cameras

1. Sony Alpha 9 II

Best Overall
Sony Alpha 9 II
$4,498.00

✅ Great Low-Light Performance with High ISO Range

✅ Exceptional Autofocus

✅ One of the Best Grips of all Cameras


❌ No 4K 60FPS Recording

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10/01/2024 03:01 am GMT

I’d heartily recommend the Sony a9 II to anyone seeking a reliable camera for low-light shooting; it’s a professional’s dream for both speed and precision.

With a great ISO range and a full-frame sensor, you naturally get amazing low-light performance, also for videos!

But honestly, if you’re into fast paced, sports or action photography, you need to get this. The autofocus is amazing, and the grip is one of the best I’ve ever held, making it perfect for this kind of photography.

But also for chilled photographers who just want to shoot nature photography, the Alpha 9 II is a great camera to get and the best low light video camera to me.

Most Important Specs:

★★★★☆
Sensor
Full-Frame
24 Megapixels
6000 x 4000
★★★★★
ISO
Auto, ISO 100 – 51200 (expands to 50 – 204800)
★★★★☆
Shutterspeed
1/8000 sec
★★★★★
Autofocus
Contrast & Phase Detection
693 Focus Points
★★★★☆
Measurements
678 g (1.49 lb / 23.92 oz)
129 x 96 x 76 mm (5.08 x 3.78 x 2.99″)

Overall Rating: ★★★★★


2. OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Best Budget Option
OM Systems Olympus E-M10 Mark IV
$799.99

✅ Really affordable

✅ Stellar image stabilization

Compact and lightweight build


❌ Smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor

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10/01/2024 03:49 am GMT

If you’re on a budget instead, I highly recommend getting the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV (what a name, eh?).

Of course, as you save money we have to cut down on the full-frame sensor. However, with an amazing ISO range and built-in image stabilization, you still have an amazing low-light performance. Also with video recording, as you of course have 4K video quality.

Getting the best low light video camera without a full-frame sensor (and therefore for a cheap price) can be tricky of course, but with this camera you get a great deal!

Most Important Specs:

★★★☆☆
Sensor
Four Thirds
20 Megapixels
5184 x 3888
★★★★☆
ISO
Auto, 200-25600 (expands to 100-25600)
★★★☆☆
Shutterspeed
1/4000 sec
★★★★☆
Autofocus
Contrast Detection
121 Focus Points
★★★★★
Measurements
383 g (0.84 lb / 13.51 oz)
122 x 84 x 49 mm (4.8 x 3.31 x 1.93″)

Overall Rating: ★★★★☆


3. Nikon D6

Best Camera For Low Light
Nikon D6
$6,496.95

Highest ISO you can get

Most Powerful Autofocus in Nikon History

14 FPS burst rate

✅ Solid Build

4K Video Resolution


❌ Expensive

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10/01/2024 07:22 am GMT

This is the best low light video camera you can get for low-light photography and videography, period.

Just look at the specs and you will understand:

  • Up to 3,280,000(!!) ISO Range
  • 14 FPS Burst Rate
  • Triple Density, 105-point cross-type sensor Autofocus

Over 3 million ISO…who needs light anyways?! Long Exposure Photography will be so awesome with it!

Okay but seriously, this camera is Nikon’s flagship camera and therefore will provide you astounding photo and video quality. You have tons of settings and options that you’ll have to get used to.

If you have the money to spare – this is the camera to get.

Most Important Specs:

★★★★☆
Sensor
Full-Frame
21 Megapixels
5568 x 3712
★★★★★
ISO
Auto, 100 – 102400 (expands to 50-3280000)
Incredible!
★★★★☆
Shutterspeed
1/8000 sec
★★★★★
Autofocus
Contrast & Phase Detection
105 Cross-Type Focus Points
★★☆☆☆
Measurements
1450 g (3.20 lb / 51.15 oz)
160 x 163 x 92 mm (6.3 x 6.42 x 3.62″)

Overall Rating: ★★★★★


4. Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX

Best Value
Panasonic LUMIX S5IIX
$2,197.99

Impressive image stabilization during movement

Unlimited Video Recording

5.8K Video Resolution


❌ A bit bulky

❌ Steep Learning Curve for Beginners

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10/01/2024 10:31 am GMT

For just about $2,000 you can get an amazing full-frame camera with up to 5.8K video recording capability.

Handling this camera felt intuitive, especially with the active image stabilization. That kind of stabilization is a game-changer, making videos look smooth and professional with minimal effort.

What makes S5IIX one of the best low light video cameras is its ability to record endlessly without overheating. Just perfect for any videographer, that can easily hold on par with way more expensive alternatives.

Most Important Specs:

★★★★☆
Sensor
Full-Frame
24 Megapixels
6000 x 4000
★★★★★
ISO
Auto, ISO 100 – 51200 (expands to 50 – 204800)
★★★★☆
Shutterspeed
1/8000 sec
★★★★★
Autofocus
Contrast & Phase Detection
779 Focus Points
★★★☆☆
Measurements
740 g (1.63 lb / 26.10 oz)
134 x 102 x 90 mm (5.29 x 4.03 x 3.55″)

Overall Rating: ★★★★☆


5. Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Best Canon Option
Canon EOS R6 Mark II

✅ Great image quality and low-light performance with Full-Frame Sensor

✅ Incredible 4897 Autofocus points for perfect Focus

✅ Continuous shooting of up to 40 fps at 20MP for dynamic action shots


❌ A lot of customizations can be challenging for beginners

❌ Heavier body

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I’m a Canon enthusiast. When I started out with photography, I got a Canon camera, and all equipment you could need for it. Therefore I sticked to Canon for years, until I tried other brands.

If you’re like me, here is my favorite Canon for low-light videos! The R6 Mark II is just amazing for about any task, and low-light does not fall short.

Especially moving subjects are no hassle for this camera.The fast autofocus locks onto subjects with lightning speed. With about 5,000 autofocus points, you have one of the most amazing focuses you could wish for.
That comes in handy especially when shooting to darker territory, making it one of the best low light video cameras!

Most Important Specs:

★★★★☆
Sensor
Full-Frame
24 Megapixels
6000 x 4000
★★★★★
ISO
Auto, ISO 100 – 51200 (expands to 50 – 204800)
★★★★☆
Shutterspeed
1/8000 sec
★★★★★
Autofocus
Contrast & Phase Detection
693 Focus Points
★★★★☆
Measurements
678 g (1.49 lb / 23.92 oz)
129 x 96 x 76 mm (5.08 x 3.78 x 2.99″)

Overall Rating: ★★★★★


6. Nikon D850

Best DSLR and Nikon Option
Nikon D850
$2,496.95

✅ Compatible with Nikon Equipment

✅ Impressive Autofocus and fast continuous shooting

Stellar image resolution and dynamic range


❌ Overly complex for beginners

❌ Heavier body


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09/27/2024 09:46 am GMT

If you want a real DSLR camera instead of a mirrorless option, the D850 is my favorite choice!

Even though DSLR cameras have fallen short in the past years, the D850 is an absolute delight to use. And speaking of light – the low-light performance is amazing as well!

We have a great and accurate autofocus system and great ISO range, which is great for shooting and recording in the dark. The video quality is crisp clear, and will satisfy any videographer.

Of course, with a DSLR comes a bulkier and heavier build, but that’s the price you have to pay for a DSLR!

Most Important Specs:

★★★★★
Sensor
Full-Frame
45 Megapixels
8256 x 5504
★★★★★
ISO
Auto, 64-25600 (expands to 32-102400)
★★★★☆
Shutterspeed
1/8000 sec
★★★★★
Autofocus
Contrast & Phase Detection
151 Focus Points
★★★☆☆
Measurements
1005 g (2.22 lb / 35.45 oz)
146 x 124 x 79 mm (5.75 x 4.88 x 3.11″)

Overall Rating: ★★★★☆


7. Sony Alpha 6700

Best For Framerate
Sony Alpha 6700
$1,798.00

AI-based subject tracking keeps the focus sharp

4K video recording at 120FPS

Amazing Image Quality in Low-Light


❌ APS-C instead of Full-Frame

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10/01/2024 05:16 pm GMT

With 4K at incredible 120 FPS video recording, the Alpha 6700 has an amazing video quality. And with AI-based tracking on your autofocus, you’ll get crisp clear results, even when moving!

I found the Alpha 6700 surprisingly good, even though it has a steep learning curve. Of course, you only have an APS-C sensor, but with great autofocus and ISO range, you can still shoot marvellous photos and videos in dim light.

And on top of that, the camera is absolutely affordable!

Most Important Specs:

★★★★☆
Sensor
APS-C
26 Megapixels
6192 x 4128
★★★☆☆
ISO
100 – 32000 (expandable 50-102400)
★★★☆☆
Shutterspeed
1/4000 sec
★★★★★
Autofocus
Contrast & Phase Detection
759 Focus Points
★★★☆☆
Measurements
493 g (1.09 lb / 17.39 oz)
122 x 69 x 64 mm (4.8 x 2.72 x 2.52″)

Overall Rating: ★★★


beautiful low light photo of the sea with starry sky in iceland, shot with the best low light video camera in 2024
IG: daxmelmer

Buying Guide

If you still don’t know which camera to choose or which aspects are important to you, let me help you out! I’ll explain to you in detail what specifications you have to look out for in the best low light video camera.

Sensor Size

The sensor is the heart of the camera, especially for low-light conditions. A larger sensor can capture more light, which translates to better performance in low light scenarios.

Sensor TypeLight Capture Ability
Full FrameExcellent
APS-CVery Good
Micro Four ThirdsGood

ISO Range

ISO measures a camera’s sensitivity to light. A higher ISO range is vital for low light video as it allows the camera to capture videos in settings where light is not optimal without adding too much noise to the footage, making it essential for the best low light video camera.

Note: High ISO performance varies between cameras, so look for models with a reputation for maintaining clarity at higher ISO levels.

Lens Aperture

The lens aperture affects exposure and depth of field. For low-light, I suggest lenses with wide apertures (lower f-numbers) to allow more light to reach the sensor.

ApertureLight Intake
f/1.4Very High
f/2.8High
f/4Moderate

Image Stabilization

Optical or in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is crucial. It helps to reduce blur caused by camera shake during handheld shooting in low-light conditions.

Video Quality

And, of course, the best low light video camera should have crisp and high video quality. Search for cameras capable of capturing high-resolution video, 4K if possible, as they tend to have better overall image processing which is vital for low light environments.

My Opinion on the Best Low Light Video Camera

Shooting in low light can be devastating with a unsuited camera. So it is understandable that you want to upgrade. Overall, I would recommend the Sony Alpha 9 II as it is a great camera in general, and peaks at the amazing autofocus and the great ISO range.

If you’re on a budget, the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a great deal to get, and will definitely bring your videography to the next level.

Now you’ve got everything you need to decide on the best low light video camera! If you need some other recommendations or want to read some photography guides, have a look at these:

Also, have a look at our Socials to stay up-to-date with the latest photography trends!

Do you have other recommendations for the best low light video camera? Let us know in the comments down below!

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