The Best Vlogging Kits to Kick-Off Your Influencer Career

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

I may have 600K followers combined across TikTok (where I've garnered a casual 53.7 million likes on my videos), YouTube, and Instagram now, but when I first decided to start vlogging, I didn’t know where to begin — I wondered what kind of content would resonate with people, but most importantly, I wondered what equipment I would need to get my videos to stand out from the millions of others online.

When I was scouring the internet for vlogging equipment in 2020, all I would come across were paid ads that influencers were publishing. I wasn’t sure if they were actually being truthful or had actually put in the time reviewing these products (no shade to them; if I was getting paid a bazillion dollars to promote a specific camera, I would). So, I decided to take it upon myself to research the entire internet for equipment that would make my vlogging experience a breeze. Thankfully, those hours spent meticulously researching helped me find the best vlogging kits and cameras money can buy. Even for novices. I've created over 115 videos for my YouTube vlog channel, which has more than 44,000 subscribers, and thankfully, those hours spent meticulously researching helped me find the best vlogging kits and cameras money can buy. Even for novices.

I know firsthand how it can be super overwhelming when you see dozens of different cameras, microphones, tripods, etc., all at different price points. Don’t fret, though. You have me, a successful influencer who’s spent way too much time reading the specs and details of these gadgets, plus putting them to hours and hours of use, to guide you. I’ve been making videos for years.

The Best Vlogging Equipment

• Best Overall Camera: Sony Alpha ZV-E1

• Best Camera for Beginners: Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera

• Best Kit: Canon EOS R50 Content Creator Kit

• Best Microphone: Rode Wireless Go

• Best Tripod: Sony Wireless Bluetooth Shooting Grip and Tripod

• Best Ring Light: SENSYNE 10'' Ring Light with 50'' Extendable Tripod Stand

• Best Phone: iPhone 15 Pro Max

• Best Phone Light: Newmowa 60 LED High Power Rechargeable Clip Fill Video Conference Light

• Best Phone Case: OCTOBUDDY Silicone Suction Phone Case Adhesive Mount

What to Consider

Stepping into the world of vlogging can be super intimidating when you see creators with thousands of dollars worth of equipment, but you don’t need all of the bells and whistles to make great content. Before you go spending your savings account on things you probably don't need, like backgrounds or high-end editing software (TikTok has all of that included in the app, people!), think thoroughly about your experience level, the setting and setup you want, and the platform you're filming for. These will each impact the items necessary to craft the perfect vlogging kit for your needs.

Experience

Truly, if you have a smartphone with a 4K camera, some sort of external microphone, and a tripod, you’re golden. Most short-form creators and vloggers use their phones because of their convenience and portability, which I used to do. However, since I primarily vlog on YouTube, I opted for some better equipment, like the Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera, since the content is in longer form. Everything I have listed below can help you craft the perfect no-frills vlogging kit. These items are pricy enough, so I don't believe you need to spend more on unnecessary accessories to craft great content.

My biggest advice to new vloggers is to never be afraid of posting the content you like to create. Don't feel the need to conform to what's trending. As long as you post the content that inspires you, you'll find the right audience!

Setting and Setup

First, think about what type of vlog content you plan on making. Are you going to be primarily inside? Outside? Stationary? On the go? Different environments call for different equipment. If you plan on filming content that has lots of movement, you’ll want to opt for a camera that favors stabilization features — and we have just the one below. If you’re outside, an external microphone is a must. Getting products that help with your specific vlogging style can take your videos to a whole new level. Remember, though, if a $50 4K camera deal on Amazon seems too good to be true, it probably is. Fake deals are an unfortunate reality for tech accessories like vlogging equipment.

Platform

Does the app you're filming for matter? Absolutely! Short-form content, like Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts, can all get away with a basic setup (depending on preference, of course). However, for longer-form vlogs, an actual camera is recommended for a more cinematic, professional look.

I sincerely believe that my integration of high-quality equipment was key to the growth of my social media presence. Sharper images, clearer audio, and the correct tripod create a sense of elevated production value that viewers will form a connection with and make them come back for more. Countless times, my followers will stop me on the street and tell me that the main thing they love about my videos is the cinematography and how it makes them feel. As soon as you find the style of vlogging that speaks to you and your audience, you’re golden.

How We Selected

Throughout my time vlogging as a creator, I've tested around 20 products all fit for a stellar vlogging kit. From ring lights and sticky phone cases to high-end cameras and smartphones, I've put in days, weeks, months, and even years for some products, testing out vlogging gear. This didn't just occur in my bedroom, either. I took this equipment with me outside for dreary-day man-on-the-street interviews, spent sunny hours in the park with this gear, and have used it across the world (I take my gear on trips abroad with me, duh!).

And even if a product didn’t necessarily work for my setup, this years-long process gave me great insight into even the tiniest intricacies of each type of equipment needed to make any content creation great.

Why You Should Trust Me

In case you didn't see above, I've garnered a pretty big following online, specifically on YouTube and TikTok, where I post vlogs and skits weekly. In addition to being a creator in my own right, I was in charge of social media for Firstfinds.com, the sister site to Best Products, which is dedicated to trending viral products. I've been vlogging consistently for 4 years and have tested and tried out dozens of vlogging kit essentials on my own time, including my favorites of all time, the Sony Alpha Lens and the Nowmowa selfie light listed below.

Alpha ZV-E1 Vlogging Camera

In my experience, nothing beats a Sony lens. There’s just a specific, enhanced look and coloring that comes with a Sony lens that can’t be duped. If money is not an issue for you, this small but mighty camera is specially designed for those who favor superior video quality and versatility. Unlike the ZV-1F, this camera features an interchangeable lens system so vloggers can test with a variety of optics. AI features are also a huge selling point with this camera.

The Auto Framing feature automatically crops the frame to keep the subject in a prominent position when shooting. It also uses AI to accurately recognize movement, so even if you or your subject is facing away from the camera, it will still be able to recognize their movements. Even if a person is facing away from the camera, you can track them using human pose estimation technology that recognizes body and head positions.

ZV-1F Vlog Camera

This is the camera that I currently use for my YouTube vlogs. It’s simple, compact, and straight to the point. This camera has 4K recording and was made with content creators in mind. The camera's adjustable settings and low-light performance ensure that you will still get great footage even in challenging conditions, like dim lighting or a cloudy day.

It seems that Sony is really pushing this camera for content creators specifically because it supports seamless connectivity to external devices, facilitating efficient content transfer. AKA, it is super simple to share your videos. This camera is the ideal next step for vloggers graduating from their phone camera, like me!

MORE: The 21 Best TikTok-Approved Gifts for Teens

EOS R50 Content Creator Kit

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for your content creation needs, look no further than this Canon kit. It comes stocked with a great Canon EOS R50 camera housing a 24.2-million-pixel image sensor, a tripod grip with a detachable remote, and a stereo microphone for crisp and clear audio.

Wireless Go Dual Channel Microphone System

This effortless microphone is my go-to when vlogging. Consisting of a transmitter and receiver, this microphone is designed to be worn as a clip-on and features a 70-meter range, which makes it perfect for vlogging. It features omnidirectional microphones so you will sound great from any angle.

What really sold me on this microphone was how simple it was to use. I took it out of the box and basically already knew how to use it since I had no issue setting it up and connecting the pre-paired receiver and microphone to my camera.

Wireless Bluetooth Shooting Grip and Tripod

When looking for a tripod, look for one that has multi-function, like this one. Sony offers a Bluetooth tripod that blends together three essential features into one easy-to-use device. A comfortable grip, a three-leg stable tripod, and a Bluetooth wireless camera controller. The compactness and portability make this tripod a no-brainer for those with a Sony camera.

10-inch Ring Light with 50-inch Extendable Tripod Stand

With over 60,000 reviews, this ring light is clearly a crowd favorite. It’s perfect for solo content creators and vloggers and gives the illusion of professional-looking illumination. Good lighting can make or break your video, so stay one step ahead with this $30 essential. Included is a 50-inch’ extendable tripod, so it can be placed on your desk or the floor to film from any height.

LED Rechargeable Light

Coined the “Alix Earle Light” on TikTok, you can’t scroll past three videos without seeing someone rant and rave about this light. Sure, they get some commission, but the reactions to how bright this light can get are warranted. I was filming a clip for my vlog in a very dimly lit space and as soon as I turned this light on it basically lit up the entire place. Just kidding, but that’s how bright this is. This light can clip onto virtually any smartphone and users can flip between three light modes and 10 brightness settings to find the perfect lighting for their environment.

iPhone 15 Pro Max

This is my tried and true. My best friend. My confidant. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is my go-to when filming content on the go thanks to features like its 4K video recording, HDR, and high frame rate options. These allow vloggers of all levels to capture professional-looking videos. The three lenses also allow for new creative ways to shoot your content using telephoto and ultra-wide lenses. With features like video stabilization, video editing, 256GB storage, and an all-day battery life, this iPhone is really an all-in-one package for vloggers who are on the go.

Our tech editor and resident iPhone expert, Stefan Vazharov, approves of this staple, also. "The iPhone 15 Pro Max has the best video recording capabilities in the business, so it's a fantastic vlogging tool," he said. "Its sophisticated camera sensors and image stabilization tech, in tandem with the vast processing power of the A17 Pro chip and its Neural Engine, make cinema-grade quality videos a breeze even for complete newbies."

Silicone Double-Sided Suction Phone Case

More often than not, I find myself scrambling to find a flat surface that I can lean my phone on to film. However, with this case attachment, that’s a struggle of the past! This phone case adhesive sticks to any silicone case and turns any wall into a tripod. Now, no matter where you are you can be sure you get the best angle.

What started as a fun thing to do with friends as a kid, turned into an outlet of self-expression. That inevitably evolved into a want to create the best content possible with the best equipment possible (in my price range). Now, it’s my job. I’m a vlogger on YouTube, a content creator on TikTok, and I run social here at Best Products and Firstfinds! From cameras to microphones, tripods to phone lighting, I’ve spent my teen and early adult years compiling the best tools to take your vlogging and content creation to the next level.

You Might Also Like

• The Paris Hilton Housewares Collection Brings ‘That’s Hot’ Energy to Your Kitchen

• 16 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones Perfect for Rocking Out in Quiet Bliss

• Beyoncé Uses This $26 Amazon Product for Her Glossy Blonde Hair