Slow motion cameras have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in the fields of sports, entertainment and science.
Whether you’re capturing the intricacies of a sports play or the details of a chemical reaction, a slow motion camera can provide unparalleled detail and clarity in your footage.
However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which slow motion camera is the best for your needs.
When considering the best slow motion camera, several factors come into play. These include resolution, frame rate and image quality amongst others.
Some cameras offer high frame rates of up to 1000 frames per second, while others boast exceptional image quality with high-resolution sensors.
Additionally, some slow motion cameras feature advanced stabilization technology to reduce motion blur and produce smoother footage.
Another critical factor to consider when selecting a slow motion camera is the budget. While some cameras may be more expensive than others, they often come with additional features and capabilities that can justify the price tag.
With so many points to consider, navigating the world of slow motion cameras can be complex.
I get it, I’ve been there.
Now I have tried and tested so many slow motion cameras that I know what makes the best of the best.
In this article, we will explore the following top slow motion cameras on the market, highlighting their key features, advantages, and disadvantages.
- Sony Cyber‑Shot RX10 IV
- Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000
- GoPro Hero7
- Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 V
- Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K
Whether you’re a professional filmmaker or a hobbyist looking to up your game, we will provide you with all the information you need to choose the best slow motion camera.
Slow Motion Camera – Reviews
Throughout my journey of slow motion videography, I have tried and tested a great number of slow motion cameras.
I have worked with great cameras as well as extremely poor cameras. What I have discovered is that it can be hard to separate the good from the bad without personally trying them.
If you are in the market for the best slow motion camera, you’re in luck.
Of all the cameras I have tried, I have narrowed it down to the five best slow motion cameras.
I’ve considered key factors including frame rate, resolution, image quality and stabilization.
Additionally, user experience and ease of use are important considerations, as is the overall value for the price.
It’s also important to consider the intended use of the camera, as different cameras may be better suited for certain applications.
By taking these factors into account, I have reviewed the five best below to help potential buyers like yourself purchase the best slow motion camera.
Sony RX10 IV (Sony Cyber‑Shot RX10 IV) – Best Slow Motion Camera Overall
The Sony CyberShot RX10 IV is an excellent choice for those looking for a slow motion camera with exceptional image quality and impressive features.
With a 20.1-megapixel sensor and a BIONZ X image processor, this camera produces stunning, high-resolution images and videos.
The RX10 IV also features a 25x optical zoom lens. This allows users to capture subjects from a distance with ease.
One of the most impressive features of the RX10 IV is its slow motion capabilities.
It can shoot at up to 960 frames per second, allowing for incredibly detailed slow motion footage.
The camera also has a dedicated slow motion mode that makes it easy to capture slow motion videos, even for beginners.
In addition to its slow motion capabilities, the RX10 IV has several other features that make it a great choice for both photography and videography.
It has an impressive autofocus system that can track subjects with speed and accuracy, and it can shoot 4K video at up to 960 frames per second.
Whilst the Sony CyberShot RX10 IV is exceptional, every camera has its let downs.
For the RX10 IV, this is the fact that it reduces image stabilization when recording in 4K.
If there is a lot of action or movement in your shooting, recording at 1080p will enhance the fluidity of your final product.
Also, the RX10 IV sadly does not perform well in low light conditions.
4K Recording – Excellent resolution offering 4K recording from 24-960 fps. This is great camera quality for both standard shooting and extreme slow motion.
Frame Rate – Shoots up to 960fps. Captures slow motion frame rates of 240, 480 and 960 in 4K offering a wide range of frame rates to shoot exceptional quality footage. This is one of the most important things to consider when looking for a slow motion camera.
Image Stabilization – Features built-in ‘Steadyshot’ optical image stabilization. The stabilization works well at 1080p but performance dramatically reduces when shooting 4K. Movement and action shots are best recorded in 1080p for a smoother result.
Auto Focus – Has lock-on auto focus. Great, speedy autofocus that tracks the subject.
Low Light Performance – ISO range of 100-12800 with exposure compensation of +/- 3.0EV. Low light performance is a disappointment of the RX10 IV. Video quality is poor in difficult lighting conditions.
Zoom/Lenses – The fixed lens captures pretty sharp footage of 28-600mm zoom. You won’t need to mount another lens to shoot the slow-motion video.
Battery Life – Continuous shooting up to 135 minutes.
Sound – Average built-in sound capturing. You can plug in an external shotgun mic for better sound quality. The sound from the external mic syncs very well.
Regardless of your level of expertise, the RX10 IV is a wise investment for anyone seeking a high-quality slow motion camera that delivers exceptional results.
“While the Sony CyberShot RX10 IV is a bit pricey, its exceptional image quality and impressive features make it well worth the investment for those looking for a top-of-the-line slow motion camera.”
Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 – Best Slow Motion Camera for Beginners
The Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 is a versatile camera that is a great slow motion camera for those starting out.
With a 20.1-megapixel sensor and a Leica-branded 16x optical zoom lens, this camera can capture stunning high-resolution images and videos.
One of the most notable features of the Lumix FZ1000 is its ability to shoot slow motion video at up to 120 frames per second in full HD resolution.
While it may not offer the same extreme slow motion capabilities as some other cameras on the market, it’s still an excellent choice for capturing slow motion footage.
In addition to its slow motion capabilities, the Lumix FZ1000 has several other features that make it a great choice for both photography and videography.
It has a fast autofocus system, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and 4K video recording capabilities.
The camera is also relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and use on the go.
Its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it an excellent choice for both beginners and more experienced photographers and videographers.
4K Recording – The LUMIX FZ1000 was the first compact camera to offer 4K recording. This put the camera ahead of the competition for video quality. However, this camera only captures 4K at 24, 25 and 30 fps. This means you can not shoot slow motion in 4K.
Frame Rate – 24, 25 and 30 fps at 4K and 120fps at 1080p. This offers great slow motion capturing but does not offer extreme slow motion recording at high quality. In this regard, this camera is perfect for beginners and amateur filmmakers rather than professionals.
Image Stabilization – Great optical image stabilization. This camera produces smooth, fluid footage in all resolutions.
Auto Focus – The autofocus is super-fast and accurate. This camera is perfect for capturing crisp, clear footage and images of moving subjects.
Low Light Performance – The image sensitivity of ISO 800 gives a great picture quality. It brings great noise cancellation and color sensitivity.
Zoom/Lenses – Similar to an entry level DSLR in style with a 16x optical zoom.
Battery Life – Up to 120 minutes.
Sound – External mic port.
While the Lumix FZ1000 may not offer the same extreme slow motion capabilities as some other cameras, it is still one of the best slow motion cameras.
Its combination of impressive image quality, versatile features and reasonable price make it a great all-around choice for those looking for a solid slow motion camera.
This camera would be my top choice for beginners looking for an affordable camera.
“The Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 would be my top choice for beginners looking for an affordable camera.”
GoPro Hero7 – Best Slow Motion Camera for Action Videos
The GoPro Hero 7 is a highly popular action camera that offers impressive slow motion capabilities.
With a 12-megapixel sensor and advanced image stabilization, this camera can capture stunning high-resolution images and videos even in challenging conditions.
One of the standout features of the Hero 7 is its ability to shoot slow motion video at up to 240 frames per second in full HD resolution.
This allows for incredibly detailed slow motion footage that captures every detail of the action.
In addition to its slow motion capabilities, the Hero 7 has several other features that make it a great choice for action sports enthusiasts and adventurers.
It’s waterproof and can be used in a variety of environments, from snowboarding to scuba diving.
It also has voice control, making it easy to operate hands-free while you’re on the go.
The camera is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to mount on helmets, drones, and other equipment.
Its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it a great choice for both beginners and more experienced users.
4K Recording – Shoots 4K but only up to 60fps.
Frame Rate – Can capture up to 240 fps but only at 1080p. This camera is great for slow motion capturing but quality is lower than 4K.
Image Stabilization – Features GoPro’s exceptional HyperSmooth Stabilization technology. This produces crisp and smooth video of great quality. Videos are very stable and fluid so you won’t need a gimbal to shoot the smoothest video.
Auto Focus – Fixed focus lens.
Low Light Performance – Doesn’t shoot good-quality video in low-light conditions.
Zoom/Lenses – The HERO 7 does not have a zoom option but does feature different field of view modes including Linear and Wide.
Battery Life – Up to 90 minutes. The battery life isn’t great. You’d want to keep some spares and unlike later models, it doesn’t charge while you’re recording.
Sound – The audio from its in-built mic is quite good compared to what most of the other cameras have. Although it isn’t a great replacement for an external microphone. It is great to shoot the background audio for slow-motion shots.
Overall, the GoPro Hero 7 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality action camera with impressive slow motion capabilities.
Whether you’re capturing extreme sports or your next adventure, this camera is sure to deliver stunning footage that captures every detail of the action.
“With excellent image stabilization, hands-free options and the fact that it is waterproof, the GoPro Hero 7 is the best slow motion camera for action and adventure.”
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100V – Best Slow Motion Camera for Compact Size
The Sony CyberShot DSC-RX100V is a small yet powerful camera that is great for slow motion recording.
With a 20.1-megapixel sensor and a Zeiss-branded 2.9x optical zoom lens, this camera can capture stunning high-resolution images and videos.
One of the standout features of the RX100V is its ability to shoot slow motion video at up to 960 frames per second, making it one of the most powerful slow motion cameras on the market.
This allows for incredibly detailed slow motion footage that captures every detail of the action.
The RX100V has several other features that make it a great choice for both photography and videography.
It has a fast autofocus system, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and 4K video recording capabilities.
The camera is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and use on the go.
Its user-friendly screen and controls make it a great choice for both beginners and more experienced photographers and videographers.
4K Recording – Captures 4K up to 90fps. Full HD up to 240fps.
Frame Rate – You can shoot with a maximum of 960 fps. That’s some super slow motion making it one of the best cameras for extreme slow motion video.
Image Stabilization – Great optical image stabilization. This helps create crisp, fluid footage even when the camera is moving.
Auto Focus – Extremely fast auto focus at a staggering 0.05 seconds with 315 auto focus points and tracking capabilities. This is one of the world’s fastest auto-focus cameras.
Low Light Performance – ISO range of 125-12800. The best of the bunch for low light performance. Captures crisp, clear videos in almost any environment including challenging lighting conditions. Also features Bright Monitoring that boosts image brightness in dark scenes.
Zoom/Lenses – 2.9x optical zoom. This is not great but a compromise for a camera of this size with great slow motion capabilities.
Battery Life – It has pretty poor battery life if you’re shooting slow motion footage. You can shoot up to 10 minutes in slow motion per single charge. You can use an external power source via USB while shooting. It won’t charge the battery but would work as an external power source while shooting. Much needed due to its reduced battery life while using the slow motion feature.
Sound – Built-in microphone is average with no option for external mic. This is a worthwhile compromise for a camera of its size.
While the RX100V has a higher price tag than others reviewed, it is a great all-around choice for those looking for a top-of-the-line slow motion camera that delivers exceptional results.
Offering impressive slow motion capabilities, exceptional image quality and diverse range of features, the RX100V is a great slow motion camera that can fit neatly in your pocket.
“Perfect for travel and shooting on the go, the Sony CyberShot DSC-RX100V is great for capturing adventures in slow motion.”
Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K – Best Slow Motion Camera for Versatility
The Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K is an exceptional choice of slow-motion camera.
With its advanced video capabilities, this camera provides an incredible range of options for high-quality, slow-motion footage.
The GH5 features a 20.3-megapixel sensor and can capture 4K video at up to 60 frames per second.
It can record 1080p video at up to 180 frames per second allowing for incredibly smooth and detailed slow-motion shots.
The camera also features advanced image stabilization technology which helps to eliminate camera shake and produce even smoother footage.
This feature is especially important for slow-motion shots, where any small movements can be more noticeable.
4K Recording – Records 4K up to 60fps.
Frame Rate – Captures slow-motion shots at 160 fps at 1080p.
Image Stabilization – The camera has a great 5 axis video stabilization which performs well in 4K. It isn’t as great as GoPro HERO 7 but it’s pretty smooth as compared with the other cameras reviewed.
Auto Focus – Ultra fast motion detection and auto focus that has great tracking. This allows you to capture crisp, clear and detailed videos of subjects on the move.
Low Light Performance – Performs poorly when shooting slow motion in low light.
Zoom/Lenses – As a mirrorless camera, lenses are an additional extra. Whilst cost wise this can be a disadvantage, it does give you a diverse selection of lens types and zoom ranges to choose from.
Battery Life – Up to 120 minutes
Sound – Port for external microphones
Overall, the Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Digital Camera is a top-of-the-line choice for slow-motion footage.
With its advanced video capabilities and image stabilization technology, it provides excellent results that are sure to impress.
“Whether you’re shooting sports, wildlife or simply want to capture beautiful slow-motion footage, the Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K is an excellent investment.”
How To Buy the Best Slow Motion Camera
Whilst frame rate is one of the most important features to look for in a slow motion camera, it is not the only feature.
A camera is an investment and is best to make an informed decision.
This will help you get the best value for money as well as the camera that perfectly suits your needs.
When looking for the best slow motion camera, consider the following points.
4K Recording
4K recording is crucial for slow motion cameras because it allows for high-quality capture and playback of slow-motion footage.
With 4K resolution, the camera can capture more detail and produce sharper images, making it easier to analyze and appreciate the nuances of slow-motion footage.
Additionally, 4K resolution provides more flexibility in post-production, allowing editors to crop or zoom in on the footage without sacrificing image quality.
If you are a professional, 4K is essential. However, for beginners and hobbyists, you can compromise on lower quality. For amateurs and those starting out, 1080p is also decent.
Frame Rate
Frame rate is the most important factor in slow motion cameras as it determines the amount of motion blur and the level of detail captured in each frame of the footage.
The higher the frame rate, the more frames per second (fps) are captured, resulting in a smoother slow-motion playback with reduced motion blur.
A higher frame rate also allows for more flexibility in post-production, enabling editors to slow down the footage without losing detail or creating judder.
Furthermore, a higher frame rate can also help capture more precise and accurate movements in fast-paced action scenes or sports, making it easier to analyze and evaluate performance.
Therefore, selecting the appropriate frame rate is critical in achieving the desired slow-motion effect in any video production.
The majority of cameras on the market these days have slow motion capabilities.
However, not all cameras are created equal.
For extreme slow motion, check out the Sony CyberShot RX10 IV and DSC-RX100V that capture up to 960fps.
Image Stabilization
Good image stabilization is essential in a slow-motion camera because it helps reduce camera shake.
In slow-motion footage, even the slightest movements can be magnified and become more noticeable, leading to unwanted distortion or blur.
By stabilizing the image, the camera can capture smoother and more stable footage, resulting in a cleaner and more professional-looking final product.
Image stabilization is particularly important when capturing slow motion action footage such as cycling or skateboarding.
Auto Focus
Auto-focus is important in a slow-motion camera because it helps ensure that the subject remains in focus even when moving slowly.
In slow-motion footage, any changes in focus can stand out.
By using a camera with great auto-focus, the camera can continuously adjust the focus to keep the subject sharp, resulting in a more polished and professional-looking final product.
Low Light Performance
Low light performance is another thing to consider in a slow-motion camera.
This is because slow-motion footage often requires a longer exposure time to capture more detail, resulting in lower light sensitivity.
Poor low-light performance can lead to underexposed and grainy footage, which can be unappealing to the viewer.
A camera with excellent low-light performance can capture more detail and produce cleaner, high-quality footage, resulting in a more impressive final product.
Best Slow Motion Camera – My Verdict
Of the five cameras reviewed, all are great for slow motion cameras.
The one that stands out from the rest is undoubtedly the Sony CyberShot RX10 IV.
In my opinion, this is the best slow motion camera overall.
Offering 4K recording up to an impressive frame rate of 960fps, this is one of the best cameras on the market for slow motion.
Sony RX10 IV (Sony Cyber‑Shot RX10 IV) – Best Slow Motion Camera Overall
However, a downside of this camera is that image stabilization does not work well in 4K.
In that case, if you are shooting action footage, the GoPro HERO 7 may be a better option for you.
With HyperSmooth Stabilization, this camera captures sensational fluid slow motion footage that is crisp and detailed.
If you travel a lot and are capturing on the go, the compact size of the Sony CyberShot DSC-RX100V may be more suitable.
Alternatively, if you are a beginner, the Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 could be the perfect fit.
User-friendly at an affordable price tag, this is a great camera for those just dipping their toe into the world of slow motion videography.
It is clear that slow motion cameras are not one size fits all.
A camera that may be perfect for one may not be the one for you.
When looking to buy a slow motion camera, make sure to explore the reviews in depth to find the best slow motion camera.
