Best Motovlog Camera
Vlogging has its challenges and requires a certain kind of camera depending on what you want to film.
Motovlogging is no different, yet the criteria for what makes a great camera for this purpose won’t be the same.
Racing around rugged landscapes and tearing through urban environments, it takes a certain kind of camera to keep up with this fast pace of vlogging.
Here’s what to expect in this article:
- Reviews of the best motovlog camera
- A brief buyer’s guide
- Your burning questions answered in a FAQ
Without further ado, here are our top picks…
👑 Our Pick for Best Overall
⭐ Our Other Top Picks for Motovlog Cameras
- Best of the Best: GoPro HERO8
- Runner Up: VanTop Moment 4C
- Best Camcorder: Sony FDR-X3000
- Best on a Budget: AKASO EK7000
- Best for Beginners: VanTop Moment 4
Best Motovlog Camera Reviews
GoPro HERO8 (⭐ Best of the Best)
Hands-down the best motovlogging camera, and a widely-regarded camera all around, the GoPro HERO8 has to take top spot.
GoPro as a brand has become synonymous with a lifestyle of adventure and extremes. Just the mention of the word likely conjures up imagery of electric dirt bikes racing down mountains and surfers riding huge waves. That’s because the cameras GoPro produces are built for movement, and lend themselves perfectly well to sports and motovlogging.
The lightweight, compact design of the GoPro cameras makes them ideal for taking with you on any adventure. But the size isn’t what makes the GoPro HERO8 special, it’s the features. This camera is able to shoot in 4K ultra HD as well as 1080p live streaming, but that isn’t all. It’s also waterproof, which sets it apart from a lot of other motovlogging cameras. Cars and bikes aren’t the only medium of transport compatible with the GoPro, you can use this compact camera on a surfboard, a raft, or while canyoning. It’s this versatility that makes it such a popular choice for any kind of vlogging on the go.
There’s also the HyperSmooth 2.0 technology, which is designed to give you the best image stabilization whatever you’re doing. With three different levels of stabilization, you should be able to record anything regardless of your pace of life. This is what makes for those stunning high-quality adventure vlogs you often see on YouTube. It also makes the job of the motovlogger a lot easier, since it can adapt to whatever speed they are travelling at.
TimeWarp 2.0 is another great built-in feature with the GoPro HERO8, as it allows the user to capture a fully stabilized time lapse video while moving. While experiencing these moments, the user can even slow down the video to highlight a particularly special moment. As a motovlogger, this will give you plenty of stunning footage to work with.
The design of this compact camera has been streamlined from previous iterations, and is now easier than ever before to store in a pocket. You can even purchase a chin mount for this camera if you want to use it as you ride a bike for example. The folding fingers on the base help you swap out camera mounts quickly, and the side door gives you easy access to the batteries for when they need to be changed. All of these changes help make the GoPro HERO8 an intuitive camera to use, and one which won’t ever be a burden.
Finally, being able to shoot all of your motovlog footage in 4K ultra HD should help you deliver high quality content consistently. Plus, when the mood takes you, you can broadcast what you are currently doing with 1080p live streaming functionality.
Features:
- Waterproof
- 4K Ultra HD and 1080p live streaming
- HyperSmooth 2.0 provides 3 levels of image stabilization
- TimeWarp 2 stabilized time lapse technology
- Streamlined compact design
VanTop Moment 4C (🥈 Runner Up)
An action camera that might remind you of the design of another popular motovlogging camera, the VanTop Moment 4C is the budget option that provides excellent value for money.
If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to the pricey GoPro HERO8, then the VanTop Moment 4C is arguably your best bet. What we love about this 4K action camera is that it provides plenty of features, as well as quality video, at a fraction of the price of the market-leader.
If you thought you would have to compromise when it comes to video quality with this budget-friendly camera, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that it records in 4K Ultra HD at 60FPS. The wide 170 degree angle of the lens makes for all-encompassing shots too, which is perfect for landscape motovlogging and capturing a whole sports scene unfolding in front of you. This includes water sports, since the camera is waterproof to a depth of 30m.
The Electronic Image Stabilization helps provide clear video and crisp photos, however much movement is involved. While this might not be on the same level as the more premium motovlogging cameras, it’s still perfectly fine for capturing blur-free video on the go.
As the name suggests, this VanTop camera is set up to capture the epic moments in your life, and does so in a variety of ways. The 16MP camera combined with the wide angle lens and Image Stabilization allows for excellent photos as well as videos. Plus there’s a burst mode feature which is excellent for capturing the best moments without letting them pass you by. You can also upload all of your photos easily using the built-in Wi-Fi functionality, so you can keep your friends updated on your adventures wherever you are.
Features:
- Ultra HD 4K 60FPS
- 16MP camera
- Electronic Image Stabilization
- 30m waterproof
- Includes accessories
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Sony FDR-X3000 (🚴♂️ Best Camcorder)
The Sony FDR-X3000 is an underwater camcorder which records in crisp 4K resolution, making it the perfect addition to any motovlog setup.
If you don’t buy into the GoPro hype, or you just prefer a more traditional video recording device, then the FDR-X3000 from Sony is worth a look. With this camcorder you can capture 4K with optical stabilization, so each motovlog you record can have the quality of a high-end production. The Balanced SteadyShot technology is grounded in the cooperation of the sensor and the lens, which work together to minimise internal camera shake for an incredibly stable end result.
The various viewing angles of this camcorder from Sony give it the edge over other motovlogging-capable cameras. Select from a narrow, medium, or wide viewing angle and find the best setup for the video you want to shoot. This adjustable viewing angle is great for motovlogging as it lets you record and frame your surroundings exactly how you want to.
Another feature that helps set this camcorder apart from the competition is the 4K time-lapse feature, and wind noise reduction. Sound is as important as visuals, and Sony is no slouch when it comes to audio production, as shown with the wind noise reduction feature. If you like to record from your motorbike or car, then you’ll know that the wind can prevent your footage from being as good as it can be. This is especially useful for silent vlogs on the road, when you want to capture the beauty of a place without talking over it. When you do want to talk though, there’s an external mic jack, so you can capture high quality audio.
Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS make this a handy camcorder to have while you’re on the move. The GPS feature can upgrade your travel vlogs too, since you can add an overlay to the video with all the information the viewer could ever want to know.
Features:
- SteadyShot Optical image stabilization
- 4K video
- ZEISS lens and Exmor R CMOS sensor
- Splash-proof body
- Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS
- 3 viewing angles
AKASO EK7000 (💰 Best on a Budget)
Motovlogging cameras aren’t only available to those with a big budget, in fact, this AKASO EK7000 shows that you can start your motovlogging content on a shoestring budget too.
The most affordable action camera you’re likely to find without greatly sacrificing features and functionality, this nifty little model from AKASO offers outstanding value for money. If you’re asking yourself what you can get for the price of a three course meal, the answer is quite a lot.
This camera from AKASO is capable of shooting in 4k Ultra HD like the very best motovlogging cameras, and will shoot at 25 and 30FPS. The 12MP camera is nothing to turn your nose up at either, as it can make for some great professional-looking photos on the go.
The best feature of this budget camera has to be the wireless wrist remote, which allows you to control the camera without needing to fiddle with the device. This is perfect for motovlogging, since the last thing you want to be worrying about is having to stop the vehicle to adjust the camera. The remote is splash proof and allows you to switch between photo and video with the simple click of a button.
With a 170 degree wide angle lens, you can capture your surroundings as they rapidly pass you by in your car or bike. That is huge for motovlogging as it means you won’t miss out on the small details in your periphery.
Other neat features of this action camera include loop recording, time lapse, and burst photo. This gives you a range of options in how you capture your surroundings. The camera is even waterproof up to 30m, so you can stop off at a body of water and get some b roll underwater footage to level up your vlog.
Features:
- Available in 3 colors
- Record in 4k Ultra HD
- 12MP camera
- Wireless wrist remote control
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Waterproof to depth of 30m
VanTop Moment 4 (🔰 Best for Beginners)
If you’re new to motovlogging, it’s good to start with a camera that’s easy to set up and intuitive to use, we’re sure you’d agree. With that in mind, we’ll turn our attention to our top pick for beginners, which is the VanTop Moment 4.
From the name, you might think that this was a camera designed to be mounted atop a van for some top cargo-transporting footage. While you certainly could capture your van adventures with this camera, it’s far more versatile than that. This is a camera you can use when you’re out riding waves, bombing downhill on a roadbike, or kicking up powder with your skis. It can of course also be used for more conventional motovlogging mediums such as the car and the motorbike. In short, the VanTop Moment 4 might be affordable and beginner-friendly, but it’s no one-trick pony.
In terms of video quality, the VanTop Moment 4 offers crisp 4k footage at 24fps, 2K at 30fps and 1080p at an ultra smooth framerate of 60fps. As such, you have various options to play around with, which is ideal if you want to experiment with your filmmaking. The resolution and framerate that might be best for skiing aren’t necessarily the best for cruising around in your car, for example. There’s also a 20 megapixel image sensor you can take advantage of if you take a break from your activity to capture the breathtaking surroundings.
One of the features that makes the VanTop Moment 4 such an excellent option for the beginner motovlogger is the intuitive touch screen control. With the touch screen you can easily focus the camera and take shots without worrying about hitting the right buttons. This functionality is aided by the electronic image stabilization which will help to keep the video steady and smoothen out any roughness in the video that could be caused by hand shaking or vibrations from bumps in the road.
The VanTop Moment 4 also has an adjustable viewing angle which has a wide range of 70-170 degrees, so you can capture the scenery around you and do it justice. The camera is waterproof up to 100 feet, features a handy wrist remote control and also has all the staples of a motovlogging camera including loop recording, time lapse, burst photo, and motion detection. With a purchase of the VanTop Moment 4, you will also receive a lightweight backpack with several accessories to help you set up for your first motovlogging session.
Features:
- Shoots in 4k/24fps, 2K/30fps, and 1080p/60fps
- Touch screen
- Electronic Image Stabilization
- Adjustable viewing angle 70-170 degrees
- 100ft waterproof
- Includes backpack and accessories
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Ultimate Guide to Motovlog Cameras
Motovlogging requires that you have an action camera, which is to say you need a camera that fulfils certain criteria for taking video on the go.
Features such as image stabilization and a wide angle view are essential for motovlogging, and can make the difference between a good camera and a great one.
There areallows other important factors such as the battery life, video resolution, and extra features the camera comes with which should influence your decision-making process.
Field of View
A factor which is more important for motovlogging than other styles of vlogging is the field of view.
Specifically, a wide field of view is what many motovloggers prefer.
The reason why you should look for a camera with a wide field of view is because of the style of filming associated with motovlogging.
Due to the nature of vlogging from a motorbike or car, it’s important that you capture all of your surroundings.
While a narrow field of view would restrict your line of sight to what is directly in front of you, a wide field of view encompasses everything in your periphery.
This is ideal for capturing mountains and the surrounding nature which you pass by on your road trips and rural adventures.
The last thing you want for a motovlog is to miss out on some stunning scenery, since this is the whole purpose of shooting them.
A surefire way to disappoint your viewers is to restrict what they can see with a narrow field of view.
As for what you should look for, the optimal field of view for motovlogging is around 170 degrees, as this will let you see pretty much everything in front of you and to the sides.
Image Stabilization
Image stabilization is another essential factor for any motovlogging camera, since without it the footage could appear blurry or grainy.
This feature keeps the video footage taken by the camera steady, so you can focus on driving or riding without needing to adjust the camera.
Once set up with a mount, a camera with decent image stabilization will keep the footage stable throughout.
The quality of image stabilization varies from one camera to the next, and there are different types.
Optical Image Stabilization
Optical Image Stabilization works by using gyroscopes to move the lens and counteract movement made by the camera. This then triggers electromagnet motors which will adjust the lens as you record footage, and minimise or eliminate blurring.
This is generally considered to be the better option when it comes to image stabilization, and you’ll find it on the top end motovlogging cameras like the Sony FDRX3000.
Electronic Image Stabilization
Electronic, or digital image stabilization, utilizes software which will counteract the effect of movement on the camera.
This technique focuses more on moving the sensor instead of the lens.
It’s generally considered to be a slightly inferior image stabilization technique, but can still keep your video steady as seen with the ASAKO EK7000.
Resolution
The resolution you record in will make all the difference when it comes to the quality of your motovlogging footage.
This is one area in which you definitely can’t compromise if you want to provide the ultimate viewing experience, since it will significantly affect the quality of the video.
There are several good resolutions used by action cameras, but the gold standard is 4K.
4K is used to refer to the number of pixels in each picture, and the higher the number, the better the quality. That’s what makes it a step up from 720 and 1080 resolutions.
Since most, if not all, good action cameras have the ability to record video in 4K, one of the best ways to distinguish them is with the Frames Per Second which is referred to as the FPS of the camera.
The most common FPS rates for action cameras are 30 and 60, so let’s take a look at the difference between the two.
The main thing you need to know is that the higher the number, the smoother the video is likely to be, since you can fit more frames per second into the video.
30 FPS
30 FPS is considered to be the lower quality option, which will display the moving image 30 times a second.
While this isn’t bad at all, it isn’t the optimal frame rate if you’re looking for ultra smooth motovlogging footage.
60 FPS
60 FPS is considered to be the best quality option, since it will display the moving image at double the rate of a 30 FPS camera.
60 FPS 4K video is a joy to watch, and the perfect setting to look for if you want the highest quality footage in your motovlogs.
Audio Quality
The audio quality can be just as important as the image quality, given that motovlogs can be as much about the sounds of the open road as the picture of the surroundings.
You could certainly argue that audio quality isn’t as important as it is for a traditional style vlog where you talk to the camera, but it’s still something to consider.
This is especially true if you plan on talking as you travel, and want to ensure that you can be heard in spite of wind noise or other environmental sounds.
As such, you might look for an action camera that has an external microphone jack like the Sony FDR-X3000. This opens up the possibility to use a high quality microphone for crisp audio.
If the camera you buy doesn’t have a way of connecting an external microphone, then to get high quality audio you might need to get your hands on a separate audio recorder.
As a result, if you want high quality audio from the start, then you should strongly consider getting a camera with an external microphone connection.
Extra Features
Every motovlogging setup requires some versatility, whether that’s the option to jump in the water for breathtaking b roll footage, or take epic timelapse videos on the go, you’re going to want certain extra features in your camera.
Extra features are always nice, and can turn your action camera into a highly versatile recording device which you can use in a variety of environments and situations.
Here’s a list of some of the extra features that are handy to have for the best motovlogging experience.
External Microphone Connection
One of the most useful features to have on any action camera is an external microphone connection.
Without one, you will be stuck with the standard audio of the camera, which could be unsatisfactory at best.
This is one of those extras that makes a lot of sense to look for if you want your motovlogs to be high production value.
Waterproof
If you often pass by bodies of water on your travels and feel like underwater footage would go well with your content, then having waterproof housing is essential.
Wireless Control
Some action cameras like the VanTop Moment 4C come with wireless control that allow you to control what you record without needing to configure the camera.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi is a fairly common extra feature for cameras these days, since it allows you to upload your content almost immediately after you shoot it.
This is helpful if you want to put out content without spending a lot of time in post-production editing it.
Related: Best Slow Motion Camera
Free Quiz: Find Your Ideal Gear Setup in 1 Minute or Less 📷
Frequently Asked Questions About Motovlog Cameras
What is motovlogging?
Motovlogging is a form of vlogging which involves the use of a motorized vehicle, most commonly a motorbike or car.
Whether there’s a camera mounted on the motorcycle helmet, or on the dashboard of a car, motovlogging is all about capturing footage while on the move.
It’s a form of vlogging that will often involve breathtaking landscapes and long road trips, although it’s generally associated with movement and action.
How do you make a motovlog?
To make a motovlog, you’re going to need two things: a vehicle and a camera.
The motovlogging camera you pick will need to satisfy your criteria, since the type of footage you want to capture will influence the type of camera that you’ll need.
The idea though is to mount a camera like a GoPro wherever you can, and shoot video as you drive or ride around.
How do I become a motovlogger?
To become a motovlogger, you’ll need to invest in the right equipment and plan ahead.
If you want to make compelling motovlogs that capture and engage the viewer, then you’ll want a top-end camera and a content plan which will help you shoot the most interesting footage.
Don’t expect to build a large audience by simply hopping on your bike and riding around with a mounted GoPro. Instead, think about what your viewers would want to see, and aim to provide a unique perspective which can become your style over time.
Related: Best Camera With Flip Screen
A Final Word From Run Gun Shoot
Motovlogging is an exciting way to capture compelling footage, but it requires great equipment for the best results.
When looking for a camera, make sure it fits the criteria necessary for recording on the move, such as image stabilization and a wide angle view.
