These days, the best 8K cameras are more accessible in terms of cost. And that should be no surprise. My aging iPhone 8 can record in 4K. So we should expect a top-end camera to do better.
That brings us to our selection of the best 8K cameras. It is a comprehensive list of all-around cameras boasting 8K video. We have everything from high-end, pro-video cameras to 360 ones.
Our top pick is the highly-regarded Sony a1. It has a superb electronic viewfinder (EVF) and sensor-shift image stabilization (IS). And you can shoot photos at 30 frames per second (fps).
What Is the Best 8K Camera?
Choosing the best 8K camera isn’t the easiest task. You have to balance price and performance. And you need to be clear about what you need (consult our buyers’ guide at the end.)
After you know that, we have a good selection for you. Before we look in more detail at our recommendations, here’s a summary of what we’ve chosen.
- Advanced BIONZ XR engine for speedy, powerful processing
- Blackout-free shooting at 30 fps for capturing fast action
- World-first 240 fps viewfinder refresh rate for sharp, clear viewing
- Unprecedented 50.1 megapixel (MP) full frame sensor for high-resolution images
- Captures 8K video with over 2 hours recording time
- Blackout-free viewfinder for seamless shooting
- Fast, powerful AF with advanced subject detection
- High-speed stills at 120 fps and stunning 45.7 MP resolution
- World’s first 40 MP APS-C sensor
- Records 8K video for up to 240 minutes
- Generates 160 MP files with Pixel Shift Multi-Shot
- 7-stop in-body image stabilization (IBIS) for shake-free results
- Boasts a 45 MP full frame sensor for superior image quality
- 8K DCI cinematic movies and extracting 35.4 MP stills
- 1,053 AF zones for accurate and intuitive subject tracking
- 5-axis IBIS for about 8 stops of stabilization
- Excels in filmmaking with 8K and 4K capabilities
- Boasts a new level of artificial intelligence (AI)
- Features next-gen AF with real-time AI recognition
- Impressive shooting speeds with continuous tracking
- Six 200-degree fish-eye lenses 3D Virtual Reality (VR) experiences
- FlowState enables stable footage without bulky gear
- HDR video and photo captures natural lighting in varying conditions
- No-stitch editing for seamless integration with Adobe Premiere Pro
- Captures ultra-high-definition 8K imagery
- Full frame CMOS sensor for superior clarity
- Dual, native ISO enhances low-light performance
- Supports ZRAW for maximum post-production flexibility
- 12K Super 35 sensor for stunning resolution
- 14 stops of dynamic range for superb contrast
- Built-in ND filters for versatile shooting conditions
- Supports recording direct to a flash disk via USB-C
Choosing the Best 8K Camera
Once you know what you’re looking for in an 8K camera, you can narrow down the choices. Here are our top picks for you to consider.
1. Sony a1
| Released |
Released
2021
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
50.1 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
759 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
 |
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
 8K |
| Key Features |
Key Features
Up to 5.5 stops of in-body IS, a superb electronic viewfinder, and dual card slots
|
| Best For |
Best For
Anyone looking for a great all-rounder, for both stills and 8K video
|
The Sony a1 is one of the very best cameras that Sony has produced. It delivers super-fast still shooting and 8K video recording as a full frame mirrorless (50.1 MP).
Sony has long deservedly enjoyed a good reputation for their autofocus (AF). And this Sony camera lives up to that reputation.
Its all-around performance is reflected in the excellent EVF and vivid LCD screen. Most keen photographers will want to use a viewfinder for stills. But the LCD is almost always better for video.
Some people find the ergonomics a little chunky. And others feel that Sony’s menus are not the easiest to navigate. But that hasn’t stopped it from being a popular and successful camera.
The Sony a1 is not cheap. But for professionals or prosumers, it’s a great choice for recording 8K video. And if you add in its still capabilities, you have our winner!
2. Nikon Z9
| Released |
Released
2021
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
46 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
493 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600 |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
8K |
| Key Features |
Key Features
Incredible 120 fps still shooting, weather-sealed body
|
| Best For |
Best For
Serious photographers looking for a top-performing still and 8K video camera
|
The Nikon Z9 is a beast of a camera. It is shaped like a flagship DSLR. But it outperforms most in its class of mirrorless cameras. You can shoot up to two hours of 8K video.
You also can shoot photos at 120 fps with full AF and exposure tracking. The penalty is a maximum of 11 MP at this speed, but that is a small price to pay.
If you want to use the maximum resolution, you have 45 MP to play with. And this Nikon camera delivers beautifully sharp, detailed images.
The EVF is also sharp and super-responsive. It feels like a real optical viewfinder. In some modes (like shooting at night), it can be dimmed to a monochrome red. This helps preserve precious night vision.
For video work, the LCD screen is perhaps a little disappointing. It is quite small for the camera. But it is articulated—a bonus for filming low or high. And like the EVF, it can be dimmed for nighttime use.
It’s another expensive camera but delivers top-quality features across video and still genres. The Nikon Z9 is a serious bit of kit. It’s a great choice if you already have a range of Nikon lenses.
3. Fujifilm X-H2
| Released |
Released
2022
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Fujifilm X
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
40 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
12,800 |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
8K |
| Key Features |
Key Features
10-bit RAW output, weather-sealed body and up to 120 fps 4K video
|
| Best For |
Best For
Second Value
|
The Fujifilm X-H2 is a high-end mirrorless camera. It offers a wealth of features for both still and video shooters. And it features a new 40 MP BSI CMOS sensor.
That sensor delivers excellent image quality with low noise and high dynamic range. This Fujifilm camera also has a fast and accurate AF system that tracks subjects even in challenging conditions.
In terms of still shooting, it can shoot at up to 15 fps with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking. It also has a 10-bit RAW output for even more flexibility in post-processing.
For video, the X-H2 can record 8K footage at up to 30 fps or 4K footage at up to 120 fps. It also supports good-quality 10-bit color and 4:2:2 sampling.
The mirrorless is a well-built camera with a comfortable grip and a large, bright viewfinder. And the LCD monitor is also bright and clear.
Another attractive video feature is an optional cooling fan. Filming in 8K generates a lot of heat. So this is a useful add-on for serious users.
It is also weather-sealed, making it a good choice for outdoor shooting. And for times when you don’t need the full 8K, you can shoot at 120 fps in 4K.
The X-H2 is an excellent camera that offers a great combination of features for both still and video shooters. It is a bit expensive but worth the price for a high-performance camera that can do it all.
4. Canon EOS R5
| Released |
Released
2020
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon RF
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
45 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
1,053 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
8K |
| Key Features |
Key Features
excellent in-body IS and up to 120 fps 4K video
|
| Best For |
Best For
Everyday stills photographers who want access to a great 8K camera
|
The Canon EOS R5 is a high-end mirrorless camera. It offers a wealth of features for both still and video shooters. And it features a new 45MP full frame CMOS sensor.
The new sensor gives excellent image quality with low noise and high dynamic range. And this Canon also has a fast and accurate autofocus system that can track subjects even in challenging conditions.
In terms of still shooting, the EOS R5 can shoot at up to 20 fps with continuous autofocus and exposure tracking. It also has a 10-bit RAW output for even more flexibility in post-processing.
For video, this mirrorless can record 8K footage at up to 30 fps or 4K footage at up to 12 0fps. It also supports high-quality 10-bit color and 4:2:2 sampling.
Canon certainly seems to be putting mirrorless cameras at the forefront of its high-end camera development. And the Canon EOS R5 is an example of how well they are doing it.
For video specialists, the Canon EOS R5 C variant offers longer recording time and faster processing. But for the general photographer and videographer, the R5 is probably the better choice.
5. Sony a7R V
| Released |
Released
2022
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
61 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
693 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
8K |
| Key Features |
Key Features
Outstanding EVF, fast flash sync speed
|
| Best For |
Best For
Videographers who also want a competent stills camera
|
The Sony a7R V is another high-end mirrorless camera from Sony. It offers a wealth of features for both stills and video shooters. And it has a huge 61 MP full frame CMOS sensor.
It delivers excellent image quality with low noise and high dynamic range. The a7R V carries on Sony’s tradition of fast and accurate autofocus. It can track subjects even in challenging conditions.
The video capabilities are impressive. The a7R V can record 8K footage at up to 30 fps or 4K footage at up to 60 fps. It also supports quality 10-bit color and 4:2:2 sampling like the others.
Still photographers won’t be disappointed by its 10 fps. It has continuous autofocus and exposure tracking. It also has a new real-time tracking algorithm to track subjects moving quickly or erratically.
Videographers will also appreciate the articulated LED screen. This camera will appeal to the user whose focus is video. But they will also appreciate being able to rely on it for still photos.
The Sony a7R V is another high-end option. It’s for anyone looking for superb optics and video performance.
6. Insta360 PRO 2 & Farsight 8K Camera
| Released |
Released
2018
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Size-unspecified CMOS
|
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
N/A,6 built-in, 200-degree, fish-eye lenses
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
N/A, still photos up to 8K 3D
|
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
N/A
|
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
N/A
|
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
Yes
|
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
8K
|
| Key Features |
Key Features
3D virtual reality (VR), stabilization, Adobe Premier integration, HDR photos and video
|
| Best For |
Best For
Professional 360 shooters who want to shoot 8K
|
If you’re looking for something quite different, the Insta360 PRO 2 might interest you. Of course, a 360 camera is a specialist item, so this won’t be for everyone.
Insta360 produces some excellent consumer 360 cameras. But as the name suggests, this is for professionals.
It uses six lenses and four microphones to capture 360 footage. This means sounds will synch with video, especially in VR situations. So this camera is all about creating immersive video experiences.
Because it is geared up for this, the Insta360 PRO 2 makes it simple to stitch your 360 footage together. And you can even monitor it in real-time on a remote display.
So if you want your 360 videos to be in sparkling 8K or create crystal clear immersive VR footage, this unique camera is probably your best bet!
7. Z CAM E2-F8 EF Mount 8K Cinema Camera
| Released |
Released
2005
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon EF
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
61 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
|
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
125,000 |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
 |
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
8K |
| Key Features |
Key Features
Modular design, Canon EF mount, dual, native ISO for low light, a wide range of connectivity
|
| Best For |
Best For
Videographers looking for a seriously capable 8K video camera
|
You won’t choose the Z CAM E2-F8 for still photography, even though it has an impressive 61 MP full frame sensor. Or you might if you love the old medium format cameras like Mamiya or Bronica.
But the Z CAM is a boxy (basically cuboid) camera. There’s no viewfinder or monitor. But there are no fewer than nine tripod threads.
That’s because the Z CAM is meant to be at the heart of a modular video system. Just add your lens, monitor, stabilizer, and microphone.
Connectivity is one of the camera’s strengths. Along with HDMI 2, ethernet, and USB-C, there are XLR and 3.5 mm sockets. As I said, this is designed to be the heart of a modular recording system.
The sensor itself has an impressive 14 stops of dynamic range. It has an impressive ISO range for low-light shots. And the range of Canon lenses is almost limitless as it has an EF lens mount.
Although the Z CAM E2-F8 cinema camera is expensive, it is one of the best value dedicated 8K video cameras for serious videographers.
8. Blackmagic Design URSA Mini Pro 12K Camcorder Body
| Released |
Released
2005
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Canon EF
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
80 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
|
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
800 |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Max Video Resolution |
Max Video Resolution
12K
|
| Key Features |
Key Features
Super 35mm sensor, ND filters, a wide range of video formats and codecs
|
| Best For |
Best For
Serious pros looking for outstanding definition
|
The Blackmagic Design URSA Mini Pro offers an incredible 12K video resolution! It offers a bewildering array of resolutions and formats, including anamorphic, 16:9, and 2.4:1.
The 12K is even available at 60 fps. And the frame rates go up to 120 for 8K and 240 for 4K. This is seriously impressive.
Like the Z CAM, this is the core of a video system. So you’ll have to add lenses and microphones. But there is a touchscreen viewfinder.
You can choose lenses for Canon EF, Nikon F, and PL mounts. Other notable features are the ND filters (2, 4, and 6), compatibility with lens AF at the push of a button, and an LCD touchscreen.
A whole range of video formats and codecs is available, way beyond the scope of this round-up review. Suffice it to say that the Design URSA Mini Pro is a serious, highly-featured pro video camera.
Buyers Guide for the Best 8K Cameras
Here are three questions to consider when buying an 8K camera.
1. What Do You Need an 8K Camera For?
8K cameras are great for professionals needing the highest possible video resolution. They can also be a good choice for consumers who want to future-proof their investment.
That means you can record in the highest possible resolution for years. But if you’re unsure if you need an 8K camera, it’s worth considering your needs carefully before purchasing.
Another benefit of 8K is that you can zoom digitally after shooting and still have 4K or better film. However, you’ll need a very good computer and lots of time to take full advantage.
2. What Is Your Budget?
8K cameras are more expensive than 4K cameras. The price of an 8K camera can vary depending on its features and specifications. But expect to pay a lot for a high-quality 8K camera.
3. What Are Your Storage and Playback Needs?
8K video files are very large. One minute of RAW 8K video takes up an average of 121.5 GB.
That means you’ll need lots of storage space to store your 8K videos. You’ll also need a powerful laptop, desktop computer, or device to playback and edit your 8K videos.
Conclusion: The Best 8K Camera
As you can see, the 8K experience isn’t cheap. But you can also see that some of the best 8K cameras are comparable to a pro DSLR or mirrorless camera. So it’s not necessarily unachievable.
Our top pick is ideal to use for both video and stills. The Sony a1 has excellent autofocus, a superb sensor, and delivers stunning 8K video. That’s why it’s our top pick.
