The best DSLR for video in 2024: create fantastic full HD and 4K video

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Whether you're an absolute novice or a seasoned pro, there's a DSLR to suit your skill level and budget. But which one is right for the kind of video you want to shoot? That's where I come in. Having started my photo journey on a Canon EOS 6D and handled almost every DSLR released since then, I know which cameras are still worth buying in 2024.

The best DSLRs for video are robust, feature-rich options ideal for many videographers. While the best mirrorless cameras represent the future of technological advancements, DSLRs offer the advantage of a vast selection of lenses and excellent value for money.

Lauren Scott headshot
Lauren Scott

Lauren has previously served as the Managing Editor at Digital Camera World, Editor of Digital Photographer and a features writer for the likes of Tech Radar, Canon Europe and Stuff magazine. With over ten years of experience in the photo industry, she started her career shooting with the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Nikon D800 DSLRs.

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

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FeaturesSmall DSLR squeezes in 4K video (although cropped), and a 24MP sensor for snapping photos too★★★★
DesignA very small and lightweight DSLR, with a articulating screen and an intuitive menu system for beginners★★★★★
Performance4K performance is good although heavily cropped, and the dated 9-point AF system makes autofocus slow★★★★
ValueOne of the cheapest DSLRs around for video, it offers great value for those starting out and even rivals mirrorless models on cost★★★★★
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Features4K video in an APS-C DSLR but slow frame rates and contrast-detect autofocus hold it back★★★★
DesignWeather sealed body with a good grip and tilting screen, but the touchscreen doesn't spin around for vlogging★★★★
PerformanceGood video performance and excellent in low light shooting, although contrast-detect AF now dated★★★★
ValueA very affordable price point if you like DSLRs, but there are much more modern cameras for the same cost★★★★
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FeaturesOffering 4K footage, an articulating screen, solid modern autofocus, and with ports for external mics and headphones★★★★★
DesignA bit chunkier than other APS-C DLSRs, this works to your advantage in gripping the camera in handheld shots★★★★★
PerformanceCanon's DPAF makes this a quick focusing DLSR for video with uncropped 4K and excellent internal and external audio★★★★★
ValueWhile good value, mirrorless rivals offer newer features for around the same price, so you have to appreciate the DSLR build★★★★
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FeaturesNikon's top pro DLSR has it all with 4K full frame video and huge 45MP stills as well★★★★★
DesignThis is a big hefty camera which makes it heavy for video, but it has all the controls and dials you will need for quick settings changes★★★★
PerformanceA true all-rounder with some of the best quality 4K video you are going to get from a DSLR camera and incredible 45MP images ★★★★★
ValueReasonable value when you look at its still very respectable flagship DSLR spec sheet★★★★
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Features4K video (although cropped) and Canon's Dual-Pixel AF make a great team for video, audio inputs and C-Log also add some pro features★★★★
DesignCanon's easy to use camera layouts are legendary, but for video the fixed screen is a very limiting factor★★★★
PerformanceWhile of great quality, 4K video is quite heavily cropped with only a select few frame rates, which severely limits its use for pros★★★★★
ValuePales in comparison to the specs you can get for much cheaper prices from Canon's mirrorless cameras★★★
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FeaturesThe best spec'd DSLR camera for video offers a wealth of uncropped 4K options and fantastic AF★★★★★
DesignWith a built in grip this is a very big camera for using on gimbals or rigs, but the extra space allows big battery life★★★★
PerformanceCanon's DPAF system works incredibly well at tracking, and the multitude of resolution and frame rate options give creative options to editors★★★★★
ValueWhile this camera offers a heck of a lot, it is still a silly price compared to better mirrorless options★★★
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Features4K video, phase detect AF, N-Log and sockets for microphones and headphones, this ticks all the boxes for a video DSLR★★★★★
DesignA rugged and weather sealed design for outdoor shooting, although quite large and heavy for small gimbals★★★★
PerformanceExcellent quality video with uncropped 4K output and a range of frame rates★★★★★
ValueThis is one of the most modern DSLRs, and is a competitive price, but again is undercut by better mirrorless models★★★★
Lauren Scott
Freelance contributor/former Managing Editor

Lauren is a writer, reviewer, and photographer with ten years of experience in the camera industry. She's the former Managing Editor of Digital Camera World, and previously served as Editor of Digital Photographer magazine, Technique editor for PhotoPlus: The Canon Magazine, and Deputy Editor of our sister publication, Digital Camera Magazine. An experienced journalist and freelance photographer, Lauren also has bylines at Tech Radar, Space.com, Canon Europe, PCGamesN, T3, Stuff, and British Airways' in-flight magazine (among others). When she's not testing gear for DCW, she's probably in the kitchen testing yet another new curry recipe or walking in the Cotswolds with her Flat-coated Retriever.