Video quality is the utmost concern for a streamer. This is the key to making sure the audience can enjoy the stream well. Unfortunately, you can’t always count on your integrated webcam as the quality might be poor. So, you start thinking about using a DSLR camera for streaming instead.

That’s a well-thought decision in terms of creating a professional-look stream. But unless you pick the best DSLR for streaming, it might not be worth the money you invested in. Some DSLR cameras are pricey, though.

Now, if choosing the right one is hard, we’ll help you with recommendations for the best DSLR camera for webcam replacement. Are you ready? Let’s jump in!

Best DSLR Camera for Streaming

Here are the best DSLR for streaming to replace your built-in webcam:

1. Canon EOS Rebel T7

  • Price: $399 on Amazon
  • Resolution: 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor
  • Frame rate: Full HD 1080p at 30fps (max)
  • Key feature: 9-point autofocus system

This is one of the cheapest DSLRs for streaming available on the market. The Canon EOS Rebel T7, a.k.a the EOS 2000D, is an entry-level DSLR camera designed for beginners. If you’re on a tight budget but still want decent image quality for your stream, this DSLR camera is a reliable option.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 features a 24.1-megapixel camera with an APS-C sensor. For video recording, it supports up to Full HD 1080p at 30fps, providing crisp video quality suitable for Twitch streaming.

Unfortunately, if you require 4K streaming capability, this affordable DSLR doesn’t meet that requirement. On top of that, it’s worth noting that Canon does not offer an external audio input.

But don’t get too disappointed, though. The EOS 2000D has many more features to make your day. The DSLR camera has a 9-point autofocus system, making it comfortable to avoid manual focus adjustments that could disrupt your stream.

Furthermore, as one of the best DSLR for streaming, it has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing easy file sharing and remote control capabilities.

Verdict: If you are OK with the lack of 4K video and no external mic input, this is one of the best budget DSLR for streaming.

Read : Best Streaming Webcams 2023

2. Pentax K-3II

  • Price: $634 on Amazon
  • Resolution: 24.35-megapixel APS-C sensor
  • Frame rate: Full HD 1080p 30fps (max)
  • Key features: SAFOX 11 Auto Focus system, 5-axis Shake Reduction

Pentax may be the camera brand you have yet to hear of. Its product K-3 II is no exception. However, you’ll reconsider using this camera if you understand that Ricoh Imaging, a famous Japanese manufacturer, is behind Pentax K-3 II.

When you first look at its dimensions, you’ll notice that this DSLR camera is bigger than some. It is relatively heavy, and the design is a bit classic. But, if you can overlook that to have a durable camera with a magnesium alloy frame that performs well in various shooting conditions, this can be your best DSLR for streaming.

What makes it special? You can get Pentax K-3 II at a low price compared to other Canon cameras with the same features. It will cost you only $634. As for a budget, you’ll know that this is worth the investment. Why so?

The Pentax K-3 II boasts its 24.35-megapixel camera with an APS-C sensor without an anti-aliasing filter. This will give you sharp and detailed images. As one of the best DSLR cameras for streaming, the K-3 II can record 1080p video at 30fps. This is more than enough to stream on Twitch.

If having an autofocus feature is a must, then the Pentax K-3 II with SAFOX 11 Auto Focus system won’t disappoint you. You’ll have a camera with 27 AF points, including 25 cross-type points.

What’s more, the Shake Reduction system is a great feature this camera has to offer. While you won’t use this feature that much in your streaming room, the feature is nice to have, especially if you think about being a vlogger.

Verdict: For beginners who want a camera with great video quality at an affordable price and can overlook its bulky design.

3. Nikon D5600

  • Price: $512 on Amazon
  • Resolution: 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor
  • Frame rate: Full HD 1080p 60fps (max)
  • Key features: 39-point AF system, 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with user-friendly interface

No matter how well the performance of Pentax K-3 II, those who prefer a light-weight camera will skip it. This is when the Nikon D5600 becomes a better option. With only 465 grams, it’s almost half of Pentax’s weight.

While you may not change your camera position that much, having a compact DSLR camera is an advantage. Also, for beginners, the lightweight camera is less intimidating. For some, that’s not what they want from the best DSLR for streaming.

Nikon D5600 is one of the cheapest DSLRs for streaming at only $512. Don’t get me wrong; this camera still offers a tremendous 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor with no optical low-pass filter. In other words, you’ll get excellent image quality for every shot you take.

Adding to that, the EXPEED 4 image processor allows you to have a good low-light performance camera.

The Nikon D5600 is great at recording Full HD 1080p video at up to 60fps. With such a frame rate, you’ll have smooth video playback. This camera has a 39-point Auto Focus system, with 9 cross-type points that result in precise capture.

The D5600 connectivity features are great. It offers Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth built-in.

Verdict: This is an easy choice for most basic streaming with Full HD video at 60 FPS. With external mic input, you can guarantee better audio quality from your microphone.

4. Nikon D3500

  • Price: $488 on Amazon
  • Resolution: 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor
  • Frame rate: Full HD 1080p 60fps (max)
  • Key features: Full HD videos at 60 FPS, 5 FPS continuous shooting

Another entry-level DSLR camera with basic features and a cheap price is available. The Nikon D3500 is designed for beginners or streamers looking for an affordable alternative for their external webcam. This is surely the best DSLR for streaming for a newbie.

This camera features a 24.2-megapixel with a standard APS-C sensor. Nothing special about it, except the EXPEED 4 image processor that will provide good quality in low-light conditions.

When it comes to video recording, Nikon D3500 is capable of capturing a Full HD video at 60fps. This is more than enough for beginners to make them stand out from the competition, especially compared to those who use only a basic webcam.

You may consider it a nice-to-have feature. But, a continuous shooting rate of 5 FPS from this cheap DSLR for streaming is excellent at capturing fast-moving objects. Unfortunately, you will miss the external mic input, which is needed for recording a better audio quality using a more decent mic.

Verdict: If your focus is decent video quality without demanding an external mic input and connectivity options, this camera can be your pick.

5. Canon EOS 90D

  • Price: $1,199 on Amazon
  • Resolution: 32.5-megapixel APS-C sensor
  • Frame rate: 4K UHD at 30fps (max)
  • Key features: 45-point Auto Focus system, weather-sealed body, EOS Utility Software

Here’s another top-notch DSLR for live streaming from Canon. The Canon EOS 90D is a mid-range DSLR camera with a lot of features. It’s perfect for streamers wanting to capture stunning videos online.

What makes this camera the best DSLR for webcam is you can shoot 4K UHD video at 30fps. On top of that, you can record Full HD videos at up to 120fps. This frame rate allows you to have awesome slow-motion shots.

On top of that, the Canon EOS 90D boasts a 32.5-megapixel APS-C sensor with a DIGIC 8 image processor. That means it can produce a stunning image quality with such features.

You’ll also appreciate the autofocus system in this camera. While the Canon EOS Rebel T7 has only 9 points, this one of the best DSLRs for streaming has 45 points that work across the frame.

Canon calls it Dual Pixel CMOS AF. With this feature, you’ll capture sharp shots when shooting video during live streams on any platform.

The Canon EOS 90D’s connectivity is solid. Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth make connecting to your computer a breeze.

Verdict: A good choice for streaming 4K video with awesome built quality.

6. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

  • Price: $1,999 on Amazon
  • Resolution: 30.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
  • Frame rate: 4K at 30fps (max)
  • Key features: 61-point HD Reticular AF system, ISO 100-32000 (expandable to 50-102400)

You might think the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is outdated as the best DSLR for streaming in 2023. But with its incredible features and a discounted price since its initial release, this DSLR is definitely worth considering.

Launched in September 2016 with a price tag of nearly $3500, this DSLR was mainly for professionals. But now, you can grab one of the best DSLR cameras for streaming at a 50% lower price. You think about buying it, right?

We understand that it is still a lot of money to spend. But you’ll soon notice that the image quality of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is no kidding. With an amazing 30.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, it offers stunning images with rich colors and remarkable detail.

When it comes to video, the 5D Mark IV will not disappoint you. Shooting video in 4K at 30 FPS and handling Full HD videos at 60fps is easy peasy. Plus, the 61-point HD Reticular Auto Focus system guarantees quick and accurate focusing.

If you plan to handle more low-light situations, this DSLR camera is undoubtedly your pick. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has an ISO range of 100-32000 to 50-102400. Nice!

As for the connectivity options, you need not worry. Built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and GPS are all available. Of course, you won’t use geotagging feature as a streamer. But controlling the camera remotely is a breeze with this best DSLR for streaming.

Verdict: If you are willing to pay as much as $2,000 for an older DSLR camera with stunning features, 4K-ready, and equipped with an external mic input, this is a great option.

7. Alternatives for the Best DSLR Webcam

While DSLR cameras offer better quality compared with webcam, you can use other alternatives which are not purely DSLR type. It can be a mirrorless or even DSLR-style bridge camera.

Some of the best DSLR for streaming alternatives are:

Camera ModePriceResolutionFrame Rate (max)ConnectivityAudio InputKey Features
Panasonic FZ300$44712.1-megapixel4K 30fpsWiFi, HDMI3.5mm external mic inputSplash/dust-proof, 12fps Light Speed AF with DFD
Panasonic Lumix G7$54716-megapixel4K 30fpsWiFi, HDMI3.5mm external mic input8fps, 49-point AF with DFD, silent shooting
Sony ZV-1$74820.1-megapixel4K 30fpsWiFi, HDMI, Bluetooth3.5mm external mic inputFast Hybrid AF, 315 phase-detection points, background defocus
Sony A6000$64824.3-megapixel1080p at 60fpsWiFi, HDMI, NFCNo external mic input179-point phase-detection AF

What Makes the Best DSLR for Livestreaming

So, you have all the cameras to choose from. But how do you determine that those cameras are great for you? Here are things to look at when buying the best DSLR camera for webcam:

1. Resolution

When it comes to image or video quality, resolution is always the first thing you need to look at.

Simply put, resolution is the number of pixels within a camera sensor. So, a 1080p resolution will have 1920×1080 pixels, while a 4K resolution will have 3840×2160 pixels. The more pixels a camera has, the better it can produce a crisp visual.

But does this apply when you livestream using your best DSLR for webcam?

Well, it’s a yes and no. Yes, you’ll have better video quality when using a 4K resolution camera; and No, you need to ensure that your streaming platform allows you to stream in such quality.

For example, if you buy the Canon EOS 90D, you can capture video in 1080p and 4K resolutions. The camera is ideal for gaming, live-streaming, podcasting, and many more.

However, if you stream on Twitch, you need to understand that the recommended video quality on that platform is from 720p to 1080p.

While you can push it to 4K, you must ensure that your bitrate for streaming is sufficient. Simply put, your upload speed should be at least 8 Mbps. If you have less than that, you’ll experience lag in your livestream.

2. Frame Rate

Frame rate is the number of frames per second that your best DSLR for streaming can capture. The higher the frame rate, the smoother the videos. You can consider it the second most important thing for your video quality.

The frame rate is stated in frame per second (FPS) on your camera settings. Most cameras, including the best budget DSLR for streaming, allow you to choose what FPS to record your videos.

For example, using the Nikon d7500, you can go to Menu > Movie Shooting > Frame Size/Frame Rate. There, you’ll have options for your livestream video settings, from 1080p 25 fps to 4K 60 fps.

Which one to pick? 30 FPS is a good start for most recordings like interviews or solo streaming. However, if you record fast movement like playing tennis or boxing on Nintendo Wii, consider using at least 60 FPS.

Read More : Refresh Rate for Gaming

3. Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, it’s essential to choose the best DSLR camera for streaming that offers great connectivity options, making it easy to integrate with your streaming setup.

Some modern DSLR cameras have USB C ports that allow faster data transfer and charging and WiFi connection to ease you set up remote connection. These two features are considered standard for most cameras, including the best DSLR camera for webcam.

Especially for the WiFi connection, it helps you to produce high-quality video without having a cluttered room with so many cables here and there. However, a cable connection is always recommended to have a more stable connection if you want to record higher-resolution video.

If you prefer using HDMI, make sure that it has a clean HDMI output feature. It is a must-have for a streamer.

In short, clean HDMI out allows you to remove on-screen overlays of your recording information. That way, your stream will be more immersive because the audience will focus more on your content.

4. Audio Input

Yes, a DSLR camera will provide a built-in mic to record audio. But using your own external microphone for better audio quality is always recommended. That said, please choose the best DSLR camera for streaming that supports external audio input.

One of the best DSLR cameras for streaming with that feature is Canon EOS 90D. You’ll have a dedicated 3.5 mm mic and headphone jack. That way, you don’t need to buy any additional converter if you want to use it with any 3.5 mm mic or a professional Sennheiser MKE 600 shotgun microphone.

If you have a decent microphone, then you need to choose a DSLR camera for streaming that match your mic’s port. While it might not affect the sound quality, using a converter will make your stream setup even more cluttered.

5. Budget

Especially for beginners, the camera price is an important thing to consider.

It’s important to balance the features you want and the amount you’re willing to spend. Also, you need to ensure that your camera is decent quality and suitable for your streaming needs.

While there are many cheap DSLR for streaming you can purchase for as low as $300, you may be tempted to choose a high-end camera. That’s why managing your budget is important. For example, Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a great camera, but it makes you spend as much as $2,499.

Adding to that, think about any additional costs you need to spend associated with your streaming setup. For example, it would be better to allocate some money to buy lighting equipment to build a perfect nuance for your stream according to your niche.

Moreover, you don’t have to buy the bundle version offering many accessories. Some brands, like Canon, offer bundles, including additional memory cards, a camera bag, or converters. While buying them separately can save you time and effort, it may cost you more than buying alternative accessories at a lower price.

Read : 9 Best Audio Mixer for Streaming

Best DSLR for Live Streaming: Get Ready for Your Stream Success!

We’ve explored the great world of professional cameras, looking for the best DSLR for streaming. It’s time to wrap up.

For beginners, Canon EOS Rebel T7 can be one of the best picks. But, if you want to put your stream to the next level, Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has many strong points to make your livestream stands out.

Regardless of your choice, each camera we’ve covered has its unique features. Make sure the best DSLR for webcam you choose suits your needs as a streamer. Also, buying a DSLR camera for streaming is an investment for the mid to long-term, so manage your budget wisely.

Bear in mind that having a great camera will not make your online success overnight. You need talent and dedication, as well as a great streaming setup, to stand out from the crowd.

Have you already made your choice? Then, unleash your creativity to captivate a wider audience with amazing visuals from the best DSLR for webcam you can own.

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