Besides serving professional filming and photography units, handheld camcorders are increasingly being chosen by individuals to meet personal needs such as vlogging, content creation, or preserving memories, etc. Based on usage needs, budget, and feature criteria, Right Media has compiled a list of quality camcorders for you to easily refer to and make a suitable choice.
Key considerations when choosing a handheld camcorder
The first criterion a person needs when looking for a handheld camcorder is its compactness and portability. If the camera is only for travel or daily vlogging, a camera that is too large or heavy like a professional model would be very inconvenient, especially when traveling long distances or abroad. However, a small size can also lead to limitations in the device's functionality.
There is a wide variety of handheld camcorders available today, so it's important to research carefully to find one that suits your budget, needs, and purpose.
Some important criteria to consider when buying a handheld camcorder include:
- Resolution: This is one of the most important criteria to consider before buying a camcorder. The higher the resolution, the sharper and more vivid the resulting image. For handheld camcorders, the resolution is usually around 1080p/Full HD or 4K. If you are buying a camcorder for professional purposes, prioritize models with higher resolution for easier post-production editing.
- SensitivityCameras with high-resolution sensors are generally more difficult to use; however, they produce better quality images in low-light conditions, are easier to post-process, and allow for better background blurring. Conversely, cameras with low-resolution sensors are usually only suitable for outdoor shooting in good lighting conditions and don't require complex settings, so they can still meet the needs if you only need to shoot clips to preserve memories.
- Anti-vibration capability: Cameras with image stabilization features will help make footage smoother and motion more natural, especially for those who need to film moving scenes while traveling. However, you can also purchase additional support equipment such as a gimbal for better stabilization when shooting handheld.
- Bit rateSimply put, a high bitrate helps capture motion images better, resulting in higher sharpness and less pixelation. Using cameras with a very low bitrate will result in washed-out colors, pixelation in complex lighting conditions, and difficulty capturing sharp images during fast-moving subjects.
- Zoom capabilitySome camera models may not be able to zoom very far, which can limit their ability to shoot landscapes or moving subjects. If your needs are basic shooting, such as filming people, you can still consider cameras with 5x to 10x zoom, or you can combine them with long-focal-length lenses for support.
- Other factors include: Weight, connectivity ports, battery capacity, storage capabilities, water resistance, noise filtering features, etc., are also factors to consider when buying handheld camcorders.
In addition, you should also consider your intended use and budget to choose the most suitable handheld camcorder. Currently, products on the market have a wide range of prices, from a few million to tens of millions of VND, corresponding to image quality and included features.
For example, if you need a camera for professional work or high-quality video production, investing more in products with high bitrates, good image stabilization, and high resolution will help you capture sharp, smooth images that are easy to process in post-production. However, if you just want to record personal moments, travel experiences, or simple vlogs, then models in the basic price range will still meet your needs well.
Top 10 high-quality, easy-to-use handheld camcorders.
In general, the market currently offers many handheld camcorders at various price points and with fairly good quality. If you're still unsure which device to buy, you can refer to the 10 highly-rated handheld camcorders compiled by Right Media below.
DJI Osmo Pocket 2
Launched in 2020 and priced at around 7-8 million VND, you can own a DJI Osmo Pocket 2 handheld camcorder with fairly stable quality for its price range. The biggest advantage of this device is its compact size, measuring just over 12cm in length and weighing less than 200 grams, making it easy to slip into a pocket, offering convenience for long trips or even everyday use.
The Osmo Pocket 2 is an ultra-compact yet feature-rich handheld camcorder.
Despite its compact size, the DJI Osmo Pocket 2 features a touchscreen display, supports 4K video recording at 60fps, and boasts a 3-axis gimbal design that delivers superior image stability compared to other small cameras. Its color processing is considered quite good, and it has a built-in microphone or can connect to an external microphone, making it suitable for those who shoot interviews or outdoor ASRM videos. The camera is also considered easy to use, even for beginners.
However, some limitations of this handheld camcorder include a relatively short battery life, the inability to record vertically, and potentially poor image quality in low-light environments. Nevertheless, considering its price range, it remains a highly-rated product suitable for various purposes such as vlogging or capturing memories.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the next generation of the DJI Osmo Pocket 2, boasting many superior features and capable of meeting the high demands of those who want to create professional-quality videos for social media platforms. This model is priced higher, ranging from 10-12 million VND excluding accessories. It's also one of the most popular handheld video cameras currently used by many celebrities and vloggers.
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is currently the most popular video recording device used by many vloggers.
Retaining its compact size, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is an upgraded version that allows for regular video recording, timelapse, and motionlapse in 4K quality. This model uses a 1-inch CMOS sensor suitable for low-light environments, and ActiveTrack 6.0 actively tracks the subject. Additionally, the 2-inch rotating OLED touchscreen supports both horizontal and vertical recording, addressing the shortcomings of the Pocket 2.
Another highlight of the Pocket 3 series is its excellent image stabilization, resulting in incredibly smooth videos whether you're walking, running, or shooting fast-moving scenes. The battery is also considered to have a longer lifespan, but it's not removable. However, this series still lacks water resistance, so it's best to use it with accessories and limit its use in environments where it can be used underwater or in the rain.
GoPro Hero11 Black
If compactness, versatility, and water resistance are your priorities, the GoPro HERO11 Black is one of the outstanding handheld camcorders currently available. Originally designed as a travel and sports action camera, GoPro has gradually become a popular choice for a variety of uses. In particular, this device is well-suited for vlogging lifestyles, outdoor activities, or underwater shots requiring high stability.
The GoPro HERO11 Black is a great camera for travel enthusiasts.
As an action camera, its biggest strength is its exceptionally good image stabilization, even at high speeds. The GoPro HERO11 Black supports recording up to 5.3K 60fps and 4K 120fps, and its 27MP sensor delivers sharp, highly detailed videos and photos. This model is incredibly compact, about the size of a palm, and comes with accessories for mounting on a vehicle, helmet, or neck for convenient shooting.
Using this camera is quite simple; the touchscreen is equipped with features such as slow-motion, timelapse, and voice control. The GoPro HERO11 Black is priced at around 8-10 million VND, excluding accessories. However, this handheld camcorder still has some limitations, such as being prone to overheating and shutting off automatically if recording for extended periods; and the image quality is not very good when recording in low light conditions.
GoPro HERO12 Black
The GoPro HERO12 Black is also a well-regarded handheld camcorder in its price range, well worth trying. In terms of video quality, this model supports 5.3K 60fps and 4K 120fps recording, similar to the GoPro HERO11 Black, but with upgraded HDR video and new HDR photo capabilities, allowing for more detail in bright/dark areas and high-contrast scenes.
The GoPro HERO12 Black delivers sharper video even in low-light conditions.
Higher bitrate combined with HyperSmooth 6.0 gives the GoPro HERO12 Black exceptionally stable image stabilization, resulting in smoother video processing in all modes, including high resolution, slow-motion, and time-lapse, compared to previous models. The HERO12 Black is the first model to support Bluetooth audio, meaning it can connect with AirPods for better sound recording when needed. Users also praise its improved battery life.
However, despite its origins as an action camera, the GoPro HERO12 Black lacks built-in GPS like some previous models, which may be inconvenient if geotagging is required. Nevertheless, it remains a worthwhile handheld video camera to consider if you enjoy making self-recorded videos, travel vlogs, or the currently trending POV (Point and View) shots.
Insta360 AcePro
The Insta360 AcePro can be considered a direct competitor to high-end action cameras like GoPro and DJI Action, priced between 9 and 12 million VND. Launched in 2023, the Insta360 AcePro has a similar appearance to GoPro action cameras but boasts many upgrades in features and technology, offering a better experience for customers seeking professional video recording.
The Insta360 AcePro features a wide-angle lens and delivers sharp video quality even during motion.
The biggest advantage of this device is its large 1/1.3-inch sensor and Leica 16mm f/2.6 wide-angle lens, delivering 8K/24fps or 4K/120fps image quality, capable of capturing both fast-moving and slow-motion footage while maintaining sharp and smooth frames. The camera has a 2.4-inch flip-out touchscreen that can be controlled by gestures and voice commands without touching the device, making it incredibly convenient for shooting while working.
In addition, the Insta360 AcePro handheld camcorder is also well-regarded for its night vision capabilities and relatively large storage capacity. However, compared to GoPro, this model has weaker water resistance and lacks optical zoom, so using zoom features may cause image distortion or noise.
Insta360 GO Ultra
Launched in August 2025, the Insta360 GO Ultra quickly caught the eye of many vloggers thanks to its ultra-compact, lightweight design, making it convenient to carry around daily. This camera supports microSD cards up to 2TB, allowing users to shoot long videos without worrying about running out of memory. It also features 7 built-in color filters to enhance the quality of both landscape and portrait photography.
The Insta360 GO Ultra has an ultra-compact design but boasts quite impressive features.
Despite weighing only 53g, this handheld camcorder is equipped with a next-generation AI chip and a large sensor that ensures sharp and smooth 4K 60fps and 1080p/240fps video recording with excellent light capture. The Insta360 GO Ultra also features three image stabilization modes and a wide 156° field of view to capture moments without distortion. Furthermore, it boasts a longer-lasting battery and supports fast charging (up to 80%).
The Insta360 GO Ultra can still be used underwater, but not at very deep depths, and requires accompanying accessories to ensure the device's safety. Despite having many advantages over previous models, the price of this camcorder, including accessories, is still considered quite high, around 12-15 million VND.
Sony ZV-E10 II
The Sony ZV-E10 II is one of the handheld camcorders optimally designed for video recording and vlogging, suitable for both beginners and professional content creators. It boasts a compact, modern design, making it easy to carry around. In particular, the ZV-E10 II's image colors are considered quite pleasing to the eye, ensuring both photos and videos look great from the start, saving time on post-production editing – making it ideal for those new to photography.
The Sony ZV-E10 II also belongs to the higher price segment, however, its features are more diverse and superior.
The Sony ZV-E10 II can shoot 4K UHD at 24/30/60 fps, with fast and accurate autofocus even when the subject is moving. In good lighting conditions, the camera produces sharp images with rich colors and high resolution, resulting in natural, pleasing videos and simpler post-production editing. Therefore, many travel vloggers and beauty bloggers love using this camera.
However, some drawbacks of this model include the lack of in-body image stabilization (IBIS), so if shooting in environments requiring a lot of movement, it's recommended to combine it with a gimbal or lenses with OSS for image stabilization. Currently, the price of the Sony ZV-E10 II ranges from 25 to 28 million VND, which is quite high in its segment. However, considering its features and advantages, it's still a very worthwhile product for those who want to create professional-level videos.
Sony A6700
If you have a higher budget and greater shooting needs, you might consider investing in the Sony A6700. Priced between 32 and 35 million VND (this price may fluctuate depending on the time, not including accessories), this is a versatile device suitable for those planning to create professional-quality videos and still images.
The Sony A6700 is ideal for those who want to shoot professional-quality photos and videos.
The Sony A6700 uses a 26MP APS-C sensor and a powerful BIONZ XR processor, AI-powered autofocus technology, and Real-Time Tracking for beautiful, color-accurate 4K video recording. It features 5-axis image stabilization, reducing shake during handheld shooting and low-light conditions. The camera has a 180° flip-out touchscreen, USB-C, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity for quick sharing and easy livestreaming.
Compared to handheld camcorders like the Insta360, GoPro, or DJI Osmo, the Sony A6700 offers a wider variety of lenses, from wide-angle and telephoto to macro and cine lenses, to meet diverse needs. However, compared to those models, this device is significantly larger and heavier, making it much more cumbersome to hold and shoot continuously or during journeys.
Sony Handycam HDR-PJ800
In the price range of around 7-9 million VND, if you prefer a slightly classic, nostalgic video tone, the Sony Handycam HDR-PJ800 is still a worthwhile option. It's truly a handheld camcorder dedicated to video recording, with features almost entirely focused on video capture, while still offering basic still photography capabilities.
The Sony Handycam HDR-PJ800 is a professional video camera with a classic appearance and color scheme.
In fact, the Sony Handycam HDR-PJ800 is an older, discontinued model, but it's still sought after by many, mainly due to its distinctive video colors. While it only supports Full HD (1080p) recording, it compensates with 12x optical zoom without the need for lens changes, integrated optical image stabilization, and an Exmor R CMOS sensor, resulting in stable recording and fairly good image quality even in low light conditions. Additionally, the flip-out screen allows for convenient self-recording.
Despite being released some time ago, the most notable feature of the HDR-PJ800 remains its integrated 50-lumen LED projector, allowing for direct video projection onto walls or large screens directly from the camera body – a rare feature in handheld camcorders. However, compared to newer models in the same segment, this device still has some limitations in resolution and technology. If you particularly appreciate the video quality of the HDR-PJ800, purchasing a used unit will offer a more affordable option to experience this model.
Canon EOS R50
Another versatile device that excels at both video and still photography, and boasts an attractive design, is the Canon R50. This model features a 3.0-inch flip-out touchscreen LCD, making it very convenient for vlogging, taking selfies, or recording video. Weighing just under 400g, the Canon R50 is also very practical for extended use or for carrying around.
The Canon R50 is popular for video recording because of its beautiful colors and autofocus capabilities.
In terms of image quality, the Canon R50 features a 24.2 MP APS-C sensor and a DIGIC X processor, supporting 4K video recording at 30 fps, allowing for smoother footage while maintaining a wide angle and better detail. The camera offers a variety of color filters, easily interchangeable to suit different environments, resulting in visually appealing footage without extensive post-processing. The Canon R50 boasts fast and accurate autofocus, and its image stabilization is considered decent.
The Canon R50 is considered suitable for those who like shooting nature photos, relaxing vlogs, or beauty blogs because it produces quite beautiful skin tones. However, it won't be ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects or action scenes due to its limited image stabilization and high-speed 4K recording capabilities. You can also combine it with a variety of lenses with different focal lengths to achieve the best image quality.
Above are 10 high-quality handheld camcorders, with various price points suitable for both beginners and professionals. Beautiful moments are always worth capturing, and the right equipment will make it easier to do so. We hope that Right Media's sharing has given you more motivation and information to choose a truly suitable "companion" on your content creation journey.
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