Time works differently when you have a slow motion camera. With these cameras, you will never miss a detail and see things that you can’t in real-time.
Whether you’re a filmmaker or a videographer, you will want to capture the most beautiful footage in slow motion to get even better clarity and motion. That said, this requires a camera powerful enough to catch the frames at a very fast rate and be able to play them much slower.
However, these cameras aren’t the cheapest, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend thousands of dollars either. Hence, in this review, we have picked the best slow motion cameras from different ranges so that you can have your pick accordingly.
How Do Slow Motion Cameras Work?
You see slow motion videos in films and commercials all the time. However, now that technology has evolved enough, even to allow recording them in our smartphones, these sequences have gained a lot more popularity.
But the smoothness and clarity of the footage still depend on how good the camera is. To capture videos at a slower rate, the camera needs to film it at a lot faster rate.
Videos are mainly multiple pictures or frames put together. So, for instance, if the camera captures 24 frames per second and plays it at the same rate, you get your video in real-time. But in order to slow it, the device needs to record it in a thousand times faster rate than what it’s being played at.
Hence, they basically function by taking thousands of frames per second but playing only a few.
Best Slow Motion Cameras Review
If you want professional quality slow motion videos, then you need a strong camera with frame rates to boast about. And here, you will find exactly those.
1. GoPro HERO 7 Black
GoPro might not be as recognized as before, but their glory days are still far from over. Their digital cameras are still going strong and are among the most affordable picks. And the GoPro Hero 7 is their most advanced and popular camera yet.
It has many things going for itself, like its high frame rate and durability. But the main reason we recommend this is for its ultra-smooth recording capacity. You can shake or stumble, but this pocket-sized device will adjust to you and give the smoothest output.
Moreover, if you’re taking slow motion footages, this camera will automatically adjust and optimize to give you the best picture quality by applying HDR and reducing noise. So, even if someone isn’t confident about their skills, they can still capture artistic videos and photos.
When recording slow motion videos, camera resolutions often fall, but the Hero 7 can capture at a resolution of 1080p and rate of 240fps. Hence, you can expect your sequences to have great picture quality.
If you’re planning to vlog your adventures and moments, then you can count on this. It’s reliable and compact. Moreover, this is also waterproof. So, you can capture your finest moments to view them in an even clearer motion.
This is one of the most affordable slow motion cameras. However, if there is any concern, then it would have to be with the battery life. The battery dies down, so it’s better to carry an extra. Also, it can get pretty hot, so be a little considerate of that.
Pros
It creates stabilized and smooth videos. The camera automatically adjusts to shakes. The best Also, it’s waterproof and durable. The device can record slow motion videos at 1080p resolution. Its affordable price makes it a must-have.
Cons
The battery life is short. On top of that, longer uses can overheat it.
2. Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera (Black)
This is the budget camera that will let you take high definition videos and pictures. Moreover, this is a camera that you can use on a regular basis.
You can record videos at 1080p at 30 frames per second. Although for slow motion sequences, the quality might drop, you will still get decent videos.
This can be a great option for students or amateur users. However, it’s not so for its price only. The battery life of this device is amazing and will last you many hours. Hence, amateurs can spend hours learning and practicing shots on this.
The camera will instantly grab your attention once you look through its 40x zoom that helps you take quality footages. But don’t think it will be shaky once you zoom because the camera also has a vibration reduction feature to keep your recordings steady.
Moreover, its design and controls are straightforward, so you can adjust to it right away. If you have used digital cameras before, you will be able to understand this one easily. Moreover, the LCD display helps to keep the controls easy and simple.
However, the camera will not optimize on its own, so you will have to do the work to make sure there’s proper lighting as the videos might come out grainy or lack detail.
Pros
It has a mid-level price. This will be great for learning. Battery won’t drain out easily. Moreover, you can capture 1080p videos and zoom in without shaking the footages.
Cons
Videos may lose detail in the dark.
3. PANASONIC LUMIX FZ1000 4K Point and Shoot Camera
Panasonic has been one of the most innovative brands for a long time. The Lumix FZ1000 is their first 4k slow motion camera. As a professional videographer, if you want a device to have your back, then this is the best digital camera for slow motion video.
Use the 4k resolution to capture stunning and vibrant slow motion sequences. The ultra high definition footages will change your perspective of the whole sequence.
Your creativity will have no bounds when you use this. You can record with amazing quality and also cut out pictures out of it. Even the pictures will be of 8mp.
For advanced videography, you need to get into different positions to make sure you’re getting all the right shots. And if you’re not comfortable with your camera, you can’t get your desired clicks. So, to give you the best support, this one can zoom in up to 16x while giving you crisp and stable footages.
On top of that, it optimizes the picture quality by adjusting to movements. This maintains stability and prevents vibrations, even if the camera is tilted or is in an awkward position. Hence, this is the best action camera for slow motion. No matter where or in what position you’re in, this device will give you great videos.
Moreover, it focuses much faster than most cameras. This is really important when you’re taking slow-motion videos as you need to be very precise with your timing.
Pros
This 4k slow motion camera comes with great lenses. It can cut pictures out of recording at 8mp. Moreover, this one records slow-motion videos with quick focus and precision. Furthermore, it has a 16x zoom, but you get stable and crisp motions.
Cons
The lenses are not very durable.
4. Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 V 20.1 MP Digital Still Camera
If you’re searching for super slow motion cameras, then this is the best product for you. This is an exclusive product that you’re almost fortunate to find under $1,000.
With its 4k resolution at 30p, you will get the most scintillating and detailed shots. Moreover, this uses a 24-70mm lens to create a cinematic ambiance that will make your shots true-to-life and perfect. Hence, in our opinion, this camera is meant for recording slow motion sequences.
This Sony camera has the fastest autofocus, which is crucial for slow motion videos. With its super-fast focus and advanced AF detection, you can get into action right away.
The camera is compact and will fit right into your pockets. It’s very easy and comfortable to carry around with yourself.
But that’s not all, with an almost full metal body, this is very durable. It also gives the camera a very slick and elegant look. While the construction is firm and sturdy, the lenses are, however, very delicate.
People who enjoy manually setting their color grades or white balances will love the overall manual control. It lets you easily fiddle with all the options until you can be satisfied, and even lets you configure the basic settings.
For instance, say if you were to shoot videos of animals from a close range, you could turn the shutter sound off to not spook them.
With all the positives, if there is any drawback, then it’s the battery life. Although for slow motions, you won’t find a better camera at this price, the battery life does get sucked out when shooting these videos.
Pros
This one can record slow motions at 960fps. This top notch slow motion compact camera has a very good size to fit in your backpack. It is also great for manually setting up the controls. Also, the camera has a firm metal construction. Its autofocus is said to be the fastest.
Cons
Battery dies out quicker when shooting slow motion videos. The delicate lens may break if dropped.
5. Video Camera Camcorder WiFi IR Night Vision FHD 1080P 30FPS YouTube Vlogging Camera
If you want a bang-for-your-buck, then you have to look at this. This camera gives you radiant and quality pictures. You can record in HD and get pictures of 26MP. For the price you’re paying, this is a great camera.
It has all the features of a standard camera. You can shoot time lapses or slow motions as you wish. On top of that, you can even take pictures while in video mode without switching over to picture mode.
This cam has simple and straightforward control. You can easily record with this without getting into the configurations. Again, you may get into the detailed controls and choose manually.
When you’re traveling, this camera is great for capturing the moments. Since this has a small size and a powerful battery, it’s great for vlogging.
Moreover, the camera is a multipurpose camera. Meaning you can use it for different functions, like as a webcam, or even use it for live streaming.
Another reason to love this is its night vision. It has an IR night vision that lets you take pictures and videos in the dark. That said, its anti-shake features make sure, even as you stutter, your videos come out smooth.
However, although it has a 16x zoom, the picture quality deteriorates when you zoom in too much.
Pros
This has easy and straightforward control. The price makes it a great purchase. Also, with night vision and anti-shaking features, this is up to the standard. Moreover, you can shoot slow motion videos in good quality and color.
Cons
While zooming, the pictures lose quality.
6. Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera
Much like so many of the Sony products, this comes into our list based on its multiple features and reliable picture quality. Although it is expensive, it is a professional camera specifically for videographers and filmmakers.
Like the previous version, this one also has a powerful lens. The lens makes it easy to record from difficult angles while giving you vivid and radiant pictures.
For recording in super slow motion, you won’t be getting a better camera than this. With its 4k resolution and slow-motions at high frame rates, this device is hard to beat. On top of that, you can record even if there is low light and get smooth and clear footage.
Alongside a super-fast autofocusing, this also has a very fast image processor. Moreover, you can zoom without distorting the picture. The zooming features on this make it worth the price, as you can get a very wide range to capture pictures of superior elegance.
This is a well-constructed device. The body uses magnesium alloy to make it sturdy and durable. Its large construction also helps to make it more efficient.
The camera isn’t limited to just photography or videography. You can do both equally well. The controls require a proper understanding of all the functions that professionals will love toying with.
Pros
This is a professional grade camera for advanced videography adorned with excellent zooming and focusing abilities. You will get HD resolutions and smooth recordings. It also has a well-built body.
Cons
It will cost you good money.
7. Sony a7S II ILCE7SM2/B 12.2 MP E-mount Camera
You won’t just be taking pictures, you will be bringing them to life with the Sony a7S II. It takes the most vivid, realistic, and striking images that will make you question your own eyes.
You can record any fast-moving scenes and see them in a completely different look as you play them in slow motion.
But where this camera grabs all your attention, is its low light pictures. If you prefer taking pictures in low light to create a whole another ambiance, you needn’t look at anything else because this will give you the most detailed pictures.
With the 5-axis stabilization, it stands out immediately from the rest. You can shake or twitch as much as you want; the video will still be smooth and coordinated. Moreover, it boasts a powerful lens to give the most detailed images possible.
The full-frame sensors allow you to take the most extensive pictures. With the full-frame, even an amateur can take pro shots. It’s also loaded with features that will take you a while to completely get the grasps off. For instance, there’s a lock to help prevent accidental switching to other modes.
On top of that, when you’re in the business for as long as Sony is, you know everything that the users want. And with that in mind, this has a firm grip, and it feels perfect in your hands.
Pros
This is a high-end camera for professional use. The lens uses advanced technologies to take exceptionally detailed and vibrant pictures and videos. Furthermore, it’s perfect for low light recording. Lastly, it has good construction and a firm grip.
Cons
It is expensive. Also, some people complained about the shutter.
Buying Guide for Best Slow Motion Cameras
When buying cameras, you’re not only supposed to look at the specifications but also its overall mechanics.
Although we have reviewed the top slow motion cameras, there are still features that you should understand before buying so that your camera aligns with all your needs.
Resolution
The more the resolution, the higher the picture quality. Higher resolution means you will get clearer and better pictures. Recording videos with 4K resolution will let you see intricate details that you can’t even see with your own eyes.
If you want your videos to be displayed on the big screen, then you need a camera with high resolution. However, it also takes more memory space and needs a powerful camera to support it.
Frame Per Second
This is crucial for slow motion videos. FPS entails how many still pictures the camera can take per second. The higher the number, the more efficient the camera is at taking slow motion videos or time-lapses.
LCD
Your camera screen is important to judge how your recordings are coming out. Not all LCDs have the same output. If you look at a few different displays, you will understand the difference.
Size and Comfort
A very important and often ignored factor is how comfortable the camera feels in your hand.
If the size is small and compact, it will be easy to carry. This sort of camera is great for adventures or when you want to vlog. But the professional cameras are usually bigger and heavier. Your purchase decision should be made in response to your use.
Auto Focus
Checking whether the focusing is quick and accurate, is a great way to judge its quality. Great cameras can focus quickly with precision. You don’t want to spend much time adjusting the focus. This might even ruin the video if the moment passes while you’re still adjusting.
Image Stability
When recording videos while moving, image stabilization can make all the difference. Often users complain of being unable to use the footage they captured because of how shaky and unstable it was.
A camera with a good stabilization feature is crucial for recording videos.
Battery Life
Cameras usually have decent battery life. But when recording slow motion, decent isn’t nearly enough. Batteries that would otherwise last you 3-4 hours can be brought down to 20 minutes if you’re shooting slow motion videos. Hence, you should always look for better batteries and carry spares.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a good resolution for a camera?
Ans: Anything above 1080p will give you good picture quality. But if you want the best, then 4K resolution is what you need.
Q: Can you record slow motion videos in low light?
Ans: It is always better to record slow motion footage in good lighting. However, if you’re using a high-end camera, then you should get decent sequences in the dark.
Q: Do slow motion videos take up a lot of space?
Ans: If you’re extending one second to many, you definitely need a lot of space in your camera to save the footage.
Q: How long does a camera battery last?
Ans: A decent camera battery should last you 3 hours, at least. However, if more time lapses or slow motion videos are shot, the number will be drastically lower.
Q: What is the minimum fps needed for slow motion videos?
Ans: You at least need 60fps to get good slow motion videos. Better cameras can even go up to 120fps.
Final Words
All the products that we have reviewed can be considered as the best slow motion cameras. These are the best picks for each of their price ranges.
But if you’re still unsure, go through our buying guide. I’m sure it will be of help, and you will find your ideal camera.
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