Top 9 4K Cameras of 2022

4K Camera – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
Although perhaps not everyone has made the leap to UHD televisions and monitors, the interest in recording videos with 4K resolutions has increased, so sooner or later you will have to upgrade. However, to get the best image quality, it is necessary to make the choice of a good camera. Among the best alternatives that we have chosen for you is the Victure AC700, a 20 MP action camera submersible up to 40 meters, suitable for adventurers. On the other hand, the YinFun YFE-V4D camcorder will allow you to share images via WiFi and record at night, thanks to the night vision system.
The 9 Best 4K Cameras – Opinions 2022
If you are interested in acquiring the best 4k camera, but you do not know which model to choose, you are in luck, since we have selected some of the most popular and functional alternatives on the market today and we expose their most important technical aspects.
4K sports camera
1. Victure AC700 4K Wi-Fi 20MP Sports Camera
Suitable for athletes and enthusiasts who want a 4K sports camera, with this proposal from Victure you will have in your hands a tool that will allow you to record your adventures with a resolution of up to 4k with 30 fps for video and 20 megapixels for photos, obtaining images with great definition and sharpness.
If your thing is diving, surfing or any other water sport, this 4K ultra HD camera could be a good alternative for you, since it is submersible up to 40 meters. On the other hand, your video shots will be stable, even when you make the recordings without a tripod, thanks to its anti-vibration system.
This camera is equipped with a wide-angle lens that provides a 170-degree field of view, allowing you to record wider and more natural scenes. In addition, it incorporates an external microphone that helps you achieve cleaner and higher quality sounds.
It is considered one of the best 4K cameras of 2022 and, below, we present the positive and negative characteristics of this model.
Pros
Autonomy : You will not miss any important moment thanks to its two included 1050 mAh rechargeable batteries.
Remote : With your purchase, a practical remote control is included that will allow you to take pictures or record your videos from a distance.
EIS : This action camera incorporates an EIS system that provides clear and still photos, even when taking them on the move.
Microphone : Get clean-sounding video recordings thanks to its external microphone connection.
Cons
Chassis : It is important to take care of the camera from falls or hard knocks, since it is made of plastic.
4K video camera
2. YinFun 4K Ultra HD WiFi Camcorder
If you usually do Vlogs but want to increase the quality of the image you have had so far, we recommend you consider this 4K video camera that offers great image quality and various recording speeds. In addition, it incorporates a 3-inch HD LCD touch screen.
Get slow-motion videos and get eye-catching effects thanks to its recording function at a speed of up to 120 fps in FHD mode. On the other hand, it incorporates a 30-megapixel image sensor that provides images with quality and sharpness.
Its main components include a 37mm wide-angle lens with a maximum aperture of f/3.2, which allows for well-exposed images, even under poor light conditions. In addition, you can share your favorite images immediately with your friends thanks to its WiFi connection system.
If you are interested in knowing which is the best 4K camera, we recommend that you look carefully at the pros and cons of this model.
Pros
Formats : Work with the most popular image formats, generating photos in JPEG and videos in MOV.
Output : This camera is equipped with an HDMI video output for easy connection with a computer or TV.
Microphone : Your purchase includes an external microphone with a bracket to mount on the camera and achieve better sound quality.
Cons
Professional : This is a suitable camera for users who are just starting out, so if you are looking for professional equipment, we recommend looking at another alternative.
4K action camera
3. Cooau 4K Sports Webcam 20MP WiFi
For users who are looking for a 4K action camera that they can use to record their adventures or if they prefer to use it as a webcam, this could be your best option. With a photo resolution of 20 megapixels and video in UHD at 30 fps and HD at 120 fps, you will get a very clear image with optimal pixel density.
It includes an underwater housing that will allow the camera to be placed in water up to a depth of 40 meters and achieve completely clear and higher quality underwater images. In addition, it has a remote that facilitates the control of the equipment at a comfortable distance.
Two 1200 mAh rechargeable batteries are included with your purchase so you don’t leave any moment without recording and 20 other accessories, including an external microphone and a base to place the camera on the helmet.
Some users highlight this option as the best 4K camera of the moment, so we present its most important positive and negative aspects.
Pros
EIS : It has an intelligent image stabilization system that ensures stable and smooth images.
WiFi : You can control this 4K camera through the “Live DV” application with which you can take photos, record videos, change settings and share photos.
Optics : It has a wide-angle “fisheye” optic of up to 170 degrees of vision, which will provide you with wide points of view.
Cons
Firmware : Please note that in order to take advantage of its webcam function you need to update its firmware, which can be a bit difficult to find.
4K camera at 60fps
4. Ordro 4K AC5 Video Camera with Optical Zoom
Capture all the wonderful moments with this 4K 60fps camera that is suitable for recording everything from your sports practices to the most important celebrations you attend. With a maximum video resolution of 4K and recording speed of up to 60fps, depending on the image size you choose.
This camera incorporates a 12X optical zoom system that does not compromise pixel quality in exchange for zooming in on the image, keeping it sharp. In addition, you can equip it with a 0.39X wide-angle lens with a macro function, with which you can obtain very creative photographs of details of insects and flowers, among much more.
It is equipped with a 3.1-inch high-definition touch screen with IPS technology, which achieves up to 1,152,000 color points and achieves 71% of the NTSC color space. In addition, it incorporates a Sony brand CMOS image sensor, which manages to deal with a complex lighting environment with great sensitivity.
If faced with so many alternatives offered by the market, you still do not know which 4K camera to buy, we recommend you take into account this proposal from the manufacturer brand Ordro.
Pros
WiFi : By downloading the LzxViewer application on your mobile, you can connect to the camera and control it in real time from a phone or tablet.
Time Lapse : It has a function for time lapse photography that compresses and reproduces the captured images, achieving a very striking effect.
Charging : This camera allows you to connect a charging bank, which feeds the battery while you work, which translates into longer use time.
Cons
Focus : It is important to consider that the autofocus system can take a few seconds to reach the correct point.
Sony 4K camera
5. Sony FDR-AX334K UHD Handycam with 3” screen
Sony is known by many users as the best brand of 4K cameras and the FDR-AX334K is considered a success, thanks to its features suitable for those looking for equipment that allows them to record quality video with a resolution of UHD 4K.
With the possibility of also taking 20.6 megapixel photographs, this handheld video camera incorporates a Zeiss Vario – Sonnar lens with a focal length of 29.8 millimeters and a maximum aperture of f: 1.8. In addition, you will have the opportunity to record objects that are in the distance thanks to its 10X optical zoom and up to 120X digital zoom.
This 4K Sony camera is equipped with a 3-inch LCD screen that you can use to review the recorded images at any time and, in terms of autonomy, it works with a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery type NP-FV70.
Although it is not presented as one of the cheapest 4K cameras on this list, it is an alternative that offers the following pros and cons.
Pros
Streaming : You will have the opportunity to stream live with the help of the Ustream app.
Manual : Activate the manual function to activate the advanced capture where you will have to adjust the focus, zoom, exposure, shutter and white balance with a ring.
BOS : With the “Balanced Optical SteadyShot” system you can get stable images without blurring.
Cons
Noise : You may experience a high level of digital noise under low light conditions.
4K sports camera with WiFi
6. Apeman A80 4K WiFi 20MP Underwater Sports Camera
Sportsmen are very demanding people and when it comes to investing in a sports camera with WiFi, the Apeman A80 could be your best option. Known as a versatile and quality action camera, with it you will be able to record videos at a resolution of 4K and photos with 20 megapixels.
With the use of its waterproof housing with IP68 certification, you will be able to make underwater recordings with a depth of up to 40 meters and, thanks to its optics with up to 170 degrees of viewing angle, you will achieve wide and very natural images.
It incorporates a gyroscopic stabilization system that allows you to achieve focused and stable recordings, even when there is a lot of movement in the image. Also, it features multiple recording modes such as “Slow Motion”, loop, motion detection and immersion.
Continuing in the search for the best 4K camera of the moment, we recommend that you look carefully at the most important technical characteristics of this product.
Pros
Accessories : Your purchase includes more than 20 useful accessories to fix the camera, connection cables, waterproof case and an extra battery.
Connectivity : This camera has multiple connections to share files such as USB, HDMI and WiFI.
Portability : Thanks to its semi-rigid case and padded interior, your camera will be protected on all your trips.
Cons
Base : Due to the quality of its adhesive, keep in mind that the base of the camera can quickly lose its glue if it is not fixed correctly.
4K SLR camera
7. Nikon D7500 20.9 MP Digital SLR Camera
If you prefer to opt for a professional 4K video camera that provides you with greater freedom of manual adjustments, to achieve more creative results, do not hesitate to analyze the features offered by this 4K SLR camera from the renowned Nikon brand.
With a 20.9 megapixel CMOS sensor for photos, with this equipment you will get quality images with wide definition in the details. In addition, it incorporates a practical folding 3.2” TFT LCD screen, with which you can review the recorded images easily and from any angle.
It has “SnapBridge” technology that will allow you to connect and share your images with your mobile immediately after taking them, either via Bluetooth or WiFi. On the other hand, it incorporates an AF-S DX 18 to 140 mm zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f: 3.5 to 5.6.
Indicated for users looking for a 4K reflex camera, we invite you to learn more about this Nikon brand proposal.
Pros
Sensitivity : It offers an ISO sensitivity range that goes from 100 to 51200, making it a team that provides fabulous results in low light conditions.
Formats : Get photos and recordings in the most popular media file formats such as JPEG, NEF, RAW, H.264, MOV and MP4.
Functions : It incorporates a wide variety of functions such as GPS, Histogram and sensor cleaning, guaranteeing the location of the photo, correct exposure and clean images respectively.
Cons
Price : The price that this camera presents sets it apart from the cheapest options on the market, however, it is a tool for advanced users to professionals.
4K NK camera
8. NK AC3061 4K Underwater Sports Camera
Suitable for those users who are on a budget and want to get an action camera without spending too much money on it, this 4K NK camera is one of the best alternatives you will find in this list.
It is an action camera that has everything you need to record your extreme adventures with good image quality. With the ability to record 4K videos and take 16-megapixel photos, it is a device that also incorporates a Wi-Fi wireless connection system, with which you can share your recordings with a smart mobile phone or tablet.
In the same way, it incorporates a solid waterproof plastic casing, with which you can dive to a depth of up to 30 meters and obtain beautiful underwater images. In addition, it equips a wide-angle lens that offers a viewing angle of up to 170 degrees.
Considered the best value for money 4K camera, we invite you to carefully review its most outstanding technical characteristics.
Pros
Screen : It is equipped with a 2-inch screen that will work perfectly for reviewing the images taken and making the desired frames.
Battery : Includes an easy-to-replace, long-lasting rechargeable 900 mAh battery.
Control : Thanks to its WiFi connectivity, you can connect your mobile phone and control the camera from a distance.
Cons
4K : The recording speed of this camera at 4K is 10 fps, which does not allow you to slow down in editing.
Xiaomi 4K Camera
9. Xiaomi Mi Action Camera 4K 30fps
Among the most prominent manufacturers of high-quality technological equipment is the well-known Xiaomi brand, which has enjoyed great popularity in recent years thanks to the fact that it has presented an efficient solution to the needs of many users.
On this occasion, it presents an action and sports camera, which allows you to record video at a resolution of 4K at 30 fps and 1080p at 100 fps, which allows you to obtain images in slow motion. In addition, it is equipped with a wide-angle lens that provides a wide and natural image with an angle of view of 145 degrees and a maximum aperture of f:2.8.
The body of this Xiaomi 4K camera incorporates a 2.4” LCD touch screen with which you can monitor your shots and review the recorded videos. On the other hand, it has a Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity system, which you can take advantage of to connect to a smart phone or tablet.
Before making a light purchase, carefully analyze the most important technical aspects that stand out in this action camera.
Pros
Sensor : It is equipped with a Sony IMX317 image sensor and Ambarella A12S75 chip, which drastically reduces noise in recorded images.
Lens : The optics incorporate a seven-piece UV IR filter lens that ensures better light transmission for clear images.
Battery : It has a 1450 mAh battery, so it provides autonomy of up to 120 minutes of use.
Cons
Accessories : This product is presented without any type of accessories, so you must purchase the bases and covers separately.
Shopping guide
Cameras have become a fundamental accessory in our lives, since they are available in all kinds of shapes and sizes, allowing us to record any special moment on video or photography. Given so many models available on the market, we have prepared the following guide for you to buy the best 4K camera, with which you can have an idea of what are the most important technical aspects that you should take care of when making your choice. In this way, if you do not have a large budget and you are worried about how much the camera costs, we can guide you so that you can buy a good and cheap one.
camera type
In any comparison of 4K cameras that you do, the first point that you should learn to differentiate is the type of camera that you need, since there are suitable models for each activity.
In general, 4K digital cameras can be grouped into several specific categories, among which action cameras have become very popular in recent years. It is a type of camera for users who want to record their adventures comfortably, as they stand out for being very compact and offering all kinds of accessories to mount it on the bicycle, helmet and surfboard, as well as waterproof casings to perform underwater recordings at depths of up to 40 meters, among many more.
On the other hand, there are the 4K Handycam or handheld cameras, which stand out for being a little larger than action cameras, but still retain high versatility and maneuverability. However, they are not entirely suitable for submersion in water, since their manufacture is not designed for it.
Finally, there are the 4K reflex or mirrorless cameras, which are indicated for more experienced users with manual control and adjustment of exposure values. They are characterized by providing great image quality thanks to their larger sensors, greater creative freedom, the possibility of exchanging lenses and having a heavier body. In addition, to be able to submerge them, the use of a special underwater housing for a reflex camera is required.
sensor resolution
Among the most important technical characteristics that you must attend to before making your purchase, the resolution of the sensor is perhaps the first. With the function of receiving and processing light rays and converting them into electrical impulses, the sensor determines the quality of the image according to its resolution. Therefore, the higher the resolution of the sensor, the more detail and definition you will get in your images.
If we are talking about photography, the resolution is measured in megapixels and the higher the value, the greater the amplitude you will get in your physical copies of a certain photo. On the other hand, if we refer to video recording, the resolution determines the size and aspect of the frame, in addition to being measured with a number that can be HD 720p, FHD 1080p and UHD 4K. In the case of a 4K video camera, for example, it means that the frame size is 3840 x 2160 pixels. Taking this into account, it is advisable to look at the size and type of sensor before making the purchase, to guarantee that you will achieve the desired results and quality.
Manual and automatic adjustments
Depending on your level of experience and knowledge of this type of device, the ideal is that you choose between a camera with manual or fully automatic operation. The difference is evident and it is about how much freedom of adjustment the device allows you to operate according to your needs or if the equipment is the one that will choose the exposure and color values according to the results obtained by its photometer.
We must consider that, although most people think that professional photographers always choose a manual camera, the reality is that a large number of them, after knowing perfectly how a camera works, opt for an automatic one, so that his attention is focused directly on the composition of the image.
recording formats
This is a very important point, especially if you later have to edit your video clips or photos on a computer.
There is a wide variety of image and video formats out there today, but only a few are truly popular with publishers, either because they provide the highest image quality or because they offer an excellent quality to file size ratio.
Among the most used video formats are MOV and MP4 with H.264 compression codec. And, in terms of photography, the JPEG is suitable for sharing on the Internet thanks to its light weight and the RAW is known for being a “raw” file or digital negative, being perfect for editing and not losing quality with each modification.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use a 4k camera?
To use a 4K camera, the first thing you should do is check the battery charge, to avoid running out of the possibility of recording in the middle of the trip. Next, make sure you have a memory card inserted with enough free space to store all your recordings without a problem. With these first two steps checked, you can proceed to mount the camera on the base or insert it into the underwater housing.
Having prepared the camera, you will now need to turn it on and adjust the quality, size, speed and other aspects of the recording. Get ready to capture the images and press the shutter button when you are satisfied with the frame.
Finally, after making the recording, it is recommended to turn off the camera to save battery power and clean it with a dry cloth, so that you can completely remove the remains of dust, water or snow that have adhered to it.
Q2: Can I use a 4k sports camera as a webcam?
Yes. The first thing is to make sure that your action camera model does not include this function within its characteristics, which would allow it to be used as a webcam natively. If this is not the case, you could try to connect it to the computer via USB connection and check if it has any control application for the camera from the computer.
Finally, if neither of the previous two steps apply to you, the only thing you can do is buy a video capture card, through which you can pick up a video source, be it RCA, HDMI or S-Video, and deliver it to the computer in real time.
Q3: How many megapixels does a 4k camera have?
Photographic and video resolution must be differentiated, since, although both are defined by the type and size of the sensor, they refer to different measurements. For example, in a 4K camera there can be any number of photographic megapixels, since 4K refers to video resolution. While megapixels refer to the number of pixels per inch a sensor has, video resolution indicates the number of horizontal and vertical lines in the frame. Therefore, a 4K video camera has approximately 3840 x 2160 pixels.
Q4: How to connect a 4K camera to the cell phone?
To connect a 4K camera to your mobile phone, the first thing you need to do is download the necessary app recommended by the manufacturer that is responsible for controlling the camera from a smart device. Then, proceed by activating the WiFi or Bluetooth connection on both the camera and the mobile phone and pair both devices. If you have installed the correct software and paired properly, you will be able to control shooting and other camera settings from your mobile, as well as being able to easily move images and recordings between devices.
Q5: How to open a 4k camera?
To open most underwater housings that come with action cameras, you will need to slide the small tab on the top of the housing and, without releasing it, you will need to lift the second tab. In this way it is possible to open the casing in two, which will allow you to extract the camera. Keep in mind that before you go back into the water with your action camera, you will need to make sure that both sides of the housing plus the tabs are in place, so that you can avoid any leaks that could damage your equipment.
Q6: How to charge 4k camera?
To charge the battery of an action camera you have two possibilities. The first is to use a charging station with which you can charge a second battery while you use the camera. These stations are usually plugged into your home power outlet and sometimes allow you to charge multiple batteries at the same time.
The second way you have to charge a 4K camera is by connecting it to the USB port of the computer. Most of the models incorporate a USB connection port or similar, in which you can connect a cable that feeds energy into your camera’s battery.
Q7: What memory card does a 4k camera need?
Due to the fact that both the weight and the transfer speed of 4K video files are greater than those of HD, it is very necessary to carefully analyze the transfer speeds offered by the memory that you are going to use. The value referring to the speed of the card is represented by a symbol “C”, “V” and “U”. Please note that to record video at 4K resolution, the memory card you will need would be the YHS I U3 or V30. Both indicate that their speed is 30 megabytes per second.