Are you thinking about launching a YouTube channel and need help choosing the right gear? Whether you’re creating tutorials, tech reviews, or vlogs, investing in the right camera and accessories will drastically improve the quality of your videos. Below, we’ll highlight the best DSLR and mirrorless camera setups for YouTubers, along with essential accessories to help your channel look professional from the start.
We’ll also take a look at what top YouTubers like MKBHD use, so you can learn from the best!
1. Camera Setup for YouTubers
When it comes to YouTube content creation, DSLR and mirrorless cameras offer excellent video quality, interchangeable lenses, and a range of features that make them ideal for vlogging, reviews, and sit-down videos.
- Canon EOS Rebel T7 (Entry-Level DSLR) The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an affordable DSLR that produces excellent video quality for beginners. It offers 1080p video, good autofocus, and is a reliable entry-level camera for anyone starting on YouTube. If you’re on a tight budget but still want professional-looking videos, this is a great option.
Check out this camera and all other similar cameras here. - Sony Alpha A6400 (Mid-Tier Mirrorless) If you’re ready to take things up a notch, the Sony Alpha A6400 is a fantastic mirrorless camera, offering 4K video, superb autofocus, and a flip-up screen perfect for vlogging. It’s lightweight and highly portable, making it a favorite for YouTubers who shoot both at home and on the go.
Find this camera and other popular mirrorless models here. - Canon EOS 90D (Pro-Level DSLR) For those who are serious about YouTube content creation and want the highest video quality, the Canon EOS 90D is a powerhouse. It offers 4K video, an incredible 32.5 MP sensor, and advanced autofocus features, making it perfect for both video and photography.
Explore this camera and other professional DSLR options here.
2. Must-Have Accessories for YouTubers
Once you’ve chosen your camera, adding the right accessories can elevate your video production quality. Here are the essential accessories every YouTuber needs:
- Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod A reliable tripod is crucial for ensuring stable, high-quality video. The Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod is easy to use, lightweight, and sturdy—ideal for both indoor and outdoor shooting.
Browse this tripod and other similar options here. - Neewer Ring Light Kit Lighting can make or break the quality of your video. The Neewer Ring Light Kit is affordable, easy to set up, and provides soft, even lighting, making it perfect for beauty videos, tutorials, and sit-down content.
Find this light and other popular lighting kits here. - Rode VideoMic Pro Good audio is just as important as good video. The Rode VideoMic Pro is a top-rated external microphone that attaches directly to your camera, capturing crisp, clear sound while reducing background noise.
Check out this microphone and other audio accessories here. - Kate Collapsible Backdrop If you’re filming in a small space or want a clean background for your videos, the Kate Collapsible Backdrop is an easy-to-use option that can instantly upgrade the look of your set.
Explore this backdrop and similar video backdrops here.
3. Budget Breakdown for Aspiring YouTubers
To help you pick the right setup, we’ve divided the recommended cameras and accessories into different price ranges.
- Budget Setup (Under £1000)
- Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7
- Accessories: Manfrotto Tripod, Neewer Ring Light, Rode VideoMic GO
- Ideal for beginners, this setup delivers great quality without a hefty price tag.
Shop the entire budget setup here.
- Mid-Tier Setup (£1000-£2000)
- Camera: Sony Alpha A6400
- Accessories: Manfrotto Tripod, Neewer Ring Light, Rode VideoMic Pro
- Perfect for those who want to upgrade their production quality with 4K video and clearer audio.
Browse the full mid-tier setup here.
- Pro Setup (Above £2000)
- Camera: Canon EOS 90D
- Accessories: Manfrotto Tripod, Studio Softbox Lighting, Rode NTG4+ Shotgun Mic
- This setup is suited for YouTubers aiming for professional-quality videos and high-end features.
Explore all pro-level gear here.
4. Inside the Setups of Famous YouTubers
Wondering what the pros use? Let’s take a look at the camera setups of some top YouTubers:
- MKBHD (Marques Brownlee) Known for his high-quality tech reviews, MKBHD uses a variety of professional equipment, including:
- Camera: Sony Alpha 1 – a mirrorless beast that shoots 8K video, ideal for crisp, ultra-high-definition content.
- Lighting: Aputure 120D Mark II – a professional light that provides soft, adjustable lighting.
- Microphone: Rode NTG3 – a high-end shotgun microphone for capturing clean, high-quality audio.
This setup is perfect for creators ready to invest in top-tier equipment, especially if you’re planning to focus on tech reviews or product demonstrations.
Find similar professional gear here.
- PewDiePie PewDiePie, the most-subscribed individual YouTuber, keeps things relatively simple:
- Camera: Canon EOS 90D
- Microphone: Shure SM7B – a top-notch microphone for voiceovers and commentary.
- Lighting: Softboxes and ring lights for even, bright lighting in his videos.
PewDiePie’s setup shows that even a simple but effective setup can take your content to the next level.
Check out the gear used by PewDiePie here.
5. Conclusion: Start Your YouTube Journey Today
Starting a YouTube channel is exciting, but choosing the right gear can be overwhelming. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to upgrade, these camera and accessory setups will help you create professional-quality content without breaking the bank. As your channel grows, you can continue to upgrade your equipment and experiment with more advanced setups.
Take inspiration from YouTubers like MKBHD and PewDiePie, and get started with the right tools today. Explore our full selection of cameras and accessories here.