Going live on Facebook is a great way to engage with your audience in real time. With Facebook Live, you can broadcast live videos, interact with viewers through comments, and create more authentic connections. But before you go live, you’ll need to select the right camera to deliver high-quality streams.
When choosing a camera for Facebook Live, there are a few key factors to consider:
Video Quality
Facebook Live videos should be streamed in HD quality – at least 720p resolution at 30 frames per second. This provides a smooth, clear picture for your viewers. Avoid using cameras that can only stream in lower resolutions like 480p.
Built-in Streaming
Look for a camera that can stream directly to Facebook Live without extra software or hardware. Many modern cameras have built-in wifi and streaming capabilities through mobile apps or software like the Facebook Live Producer app.
Portability
Consider how mobile you need your camera setup to be. Will you be moving around to stream from different locations and angles? Or will you have a fixed streaming setup? More portable cameras like smartphones, action cams, and mirrorless cameras allow you to stream on the go.
Extra Features
Some additional features that are useful for Facebook Live include:
- Dual camera/lenses for switching between views
- Flip-out screen to monitor your stream
- External mic input for better audio
- Long battery life rating for extended streams
- Stabilization to avoid shaky footage
Budget
Factor in your budget when selecting a streaming camera. Prices can range from $50 for entry-level action cams to $5000+ for high-end DSLR and mirrorless models. Set a budget that aligns with your production quality and features needs.
Smartphone Cameras
For many, using their smartphone camera is the most convenient and affordable option to stream on Facebook Live. Modern iPhone and Android devices can deliver excellent HD video quality. Simply install the Facebook app to get started. Benefits of smartphone cameras include:
- High resolution – Most newer phones film in 4K or 1080p HD.
- Built-in streaming – The Facebook app allows instant streaming.
- Portability – Compact and easy to carry on the go.
- Familiar interface – Use your phone’s camera app to adjust settings.
- Affordability – No extra equipment needed if you already own a phone.
Potential downsides of smartphones include lack of zoom, no mic input, short battery life when streaming, and occasional lag or choppiness in the stream.
Recommended Smartphones for Facebook Live
| Phone | Video Resolution | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 Pro | 4K up to 60fps | Excellent image stabilization |
| iPhone 13 | 4K up to 60fps | Dual camera system |
| Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra | 4K up to 60fps | 100x zoom capability |
| Google Pixel 6 Pro | 4K up to 60fps | Powerful computational photography |
Mirrorless Cameras
Mirrorless cameras provide a step up in video quality, features, and customizability compared to smartphones. Models from Sony, Canon, Nikon, and others allow you to swap out lenses, add external mics, and adjust comprehensive video settings. Benefits include:
- Interchangeable lenses – Swap lenses for different angles and zoom.
- Large sensors – Capture more light and detail than a smartphone.
- Manual controls – Adjust ISO, aperture, shutter speed and more.
- Hotshoe for external mics – Improve your audio with directional mics.
- Tilting touchscreens – See your framing and adjust settings on screen.
Downsides are the larger size compared to smartphones, higher prices, and need for additional lenses and accessories.
Recommended Mirrorless Cameras for Facebook Live
| Camera | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sony ZV-1 | Compact and flip screen optimized for vlogging | $700 |
| Sony a6600 | In-body stabilization and unlimited recording time | $1400 |
| Canon EOS M50 | Affordable price, good autofocus, and 4K video | $580 |
DSLR Cameras
Digital SLR cameras are the workhorses of video production and live streaming. Their large image sensors, interchangeable lenses, endless accessory options, and excellent manual controls provide unmatched quality and customization. Benefits of DSLRs include:
- Stunning image quality – Large sensors capture cinematic footage.
- Great low light performance – High ISO capabilities reduce noise in dim lighting.
- Shallow depth of field – Achieve blurred backgrounds with wide aperture lenses.
- Wide lens selection – Choose lenses for any angle or zoom level.
- Robust autofocus – Fast, accurate tracking while streaming.
Downsides are the heavy, bulky size, expensive lenses, learning curve, and need for additional equipment to stream live.
Recommended DSLR Cameras for Facebook Live
| Camera | Key Features | Price (body only) |
|---|---|---|
| Canon EOS 90D | 45-point autofocus system, articulating touchscreen display | $1200 |
| Nikon D7500 | 20MP sensor, 4K video, weather sealing | $1000 |
| Canon EOS Rebel T8i | Vari-angle touchscreen, vertical video support | $750 |
Camcorders
Traditional camcorders from brands like Sony and Canon are designed specifically for shooting video. Their ergonomic body and video-centric controls make them very easy to use for live production. Benefits include:
- Video-optimized sensor and processor
- Long battery life – Up to 12 hours of runtime
- XLR audio inputs on pro models
- Manual focus rings and control dials
- ND filters to control light
Downsides are smaller image sensors compared to DSLRs and lack of interchangeable lenses. Prices range from $500 to $5000+ for pro camcorders.
Recommended Camcorders for Facebook Live
| Camcorder | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sony Z90 | 1-inch sensor, 12x optical zoom, live streaming | $2000 |
| Canon XA50 | 20x optical zoom, touchscreen controls | $1300 |
| Panasonic HC-X2000 | 1-inch sensor, integrated LED light | $2200 |
Action Cameras
For streaming on the move, action cams like GoPro models can provide unique angles and portability thanks to their ultra-compact size and rugged, waterproof designs. Benefits include:
- Lightweight and mountable – Attach to helmets, cars, bikes, etc.
- Durable construction – Waterproof and shockproof
- Shoot 4K or 1080p
- Super wide-angle lenses
- Built-in image stabilization
Limitations are small sensors susceptible to noise, lack of zoom or interchangeable lenses, and short battery life when shooting long events.
Recommended Action Cams for Facebook Live
| Camera | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| GoPro Hero10 Black | Up to 5.3K60 video, 23MP photos, live streaming | $500 |
| DJI Osmo Action 3 | Front and rear displays, RockSteady stabilization | $330 |
| Insta360 GO 2 | Tiny “action cam” worn as a pendant | $300 |
Webcams
Simple USB webcams provide an affordable streaming option if you have a desktop computer or laptop. They easily connect to your computer and work with software like OBS Studio to broadcast professional looking streams.
Benefits of webcams include:
- Low cost – Models start around $50
- Plug-and-play USB connection
- Small and portable
- Tripod mount threaded holes for positioning
Downsides are lower video resolution, lack of zoom, and limited quality/performance compared to standalone cameras.
Recommended Webcams for Facebook Live
| Webcam | Resolution | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logitech C920x | 1080p HD at 30fps | 90-degree field of view, autofocus | $70 |
| Razer Kiyo Pro | 1080p HD at 60fps | Ring light, wide angle lens | $200 |
| Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 | 720p HD at 30fps | TrueColor for accurate colors | $50 |
Other Equipment for Facebook Live
In addition to your streaming camera, some other gear can improve the production quality of your Facebook Live videos:
- Tripod – Stabilize your camera with tripods from brands like Manfrotto or Joby.
- Microphone – Add an external mic for better sound. Consider lavalier mics or shotgun mics.
- Lighting – Illuminate yourself or your scene with continuous or flash/LED lighting kits.
- Stabilizer – Smooth out handheld shots with a gimbal stabilizer.
- Mixer – For multi-cam streams, use a hardware switcher like the Blackmagic ATEM Mini.
- Camera rig – Attachmonitor, light, and mic to your DSLR or mirrorless with a cage or rig.
- Streaming encoder – Convert and stream HDMI output from your standalone camera to USB.
Choosing the Right Camera for You
When deciding which camera is best for your Facebook Live videos, consider factors like:
- Your budget – Prices range from $50 webcams to $5000+ professional cameras.
- Video quality needed – Assess the resolution and FPS you need to stream.
- Portability requirements – Will you stream handheld or in a fixed location?
- Connectivity – Does the camera easily integrate with Facebook Live?
- Audio quality – Do you need XLR inputs for professional mics?
- Features – Assess must-have capabilities like zoom, stabilization, etc.
- Ease of use – Pick a camera interface you are comfortable with.
Testing different cameras can help narrow down the right model for your streaming needs and budget. Prioritize HD resolution and built-in streaming capabilities when evaluating options.
Conclusion
From affordable webcams and smartphones to professional mirrorless and DSLR models, there are many camera options for streaming live video to Facebook. Assess your video quality needs, production goals, and budget to select the right model. Look for HD resolution, smooth frame rates, portability, and native Facebook Live integration when choosing a camera. With the proper gear, you can broadcast engaging, high-quality live streams to your audience.