Best Cameras for Recording Basketball Games

Each part of the following section reviews a top basketball recording camera by analyzing its characteristics and applications.

1. Panasonic HC-V770

• Best for: Overall
• Key Features: 20x optical zoom and 4-drive lens system. Creative control. Bright 3-inch screen. HDR movie feature. Sharp, stellar image quality. 
• Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
• Optical Zoom: 20x
• Screen Size: 3 inches

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The HC-V770 is a powerful camera fully outfitted with 20x optical zoom, a 3-inch screen, as well as a 1/2.3-inch BSI sensor to create good shooting conditions no matter if you’re inside a gym or out on the blacktop. The HDR movie feature also brings another aspect to your recordings.

Something else that’s extremely useful, especially when it comes to recording basketball games, is that the camera can be used with the Panasonic Image App for full smartphone or tablet functionality. That enables you to control it from far away and still focus on the game.

The only downside to this model is that it has a hard cap when it comes to resolution. The 1080p looks great and will be more than serviceable, but it can’t quite match 4k. That might bug some people looking for the absolute best image quality.

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2. Sony Cyber-Shot RX10

• Best for: Versatility
• Key Features: Stunning 4k high-resolution video. Exceptional colors alongside a large screen. High-density tracking autofocus. Strong image stabilization.
• Video Capture Resolution: 2160p
• Optical Zoom: 25x
• Screen Size: 7.5 inches

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The RX10 is a great stand-alone camera that captures everything in stunning, high-definition quality. That includes basketball games. This device gives you plenty of options, allowing you to record in 4k, take 1080p slow motion, and snap vibrant HD pictures. 

On top of that, the camera provides a steady shot, image stabilization, a strong sensor, as well as some of the best autofocus around. All of the colors look great, especially when you’re using the intuitive 7.5-inch screen to make sure all of your videos come out exactly as intended.

As great as the camera is, there are some drawbacks. It’s a bit heavier than similar models, which can lead to fatigue if you don’t have a tripod and need to hold it for the entire game. It also doesn’t come cheap, which means you need to be serious before buying it.

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3. Sony Alpha a6000

• Best for: Mirrorless
• Key Features: Extremely fast autofocus. Lightweight design. 24MP APS-C sensor. Excellent low light capabilities. Intuitive, streamlined controls.
• Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
• Optical Zoom: 13x
• Screen Size: 3 inches

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If you want a premium camera that will deliver strong traits both when you’re recording basketball and living your normal life, the a6000 is your best bet. The mirrorless model comes with a powerful battery, hybrid autofocus, and offers up to 11 FPS continuous shooting.

Adding to that is the 3-inch tilting LCD screen that provides you with extra versatility as well as the controls that give you unparalleled power over your shots. The camera is also lightweight, which is extremely useful if you need to hold it, and the low light capabilities are unmatched.

As great as the a6000 is when it comes to specs and power, it does lack a bit in the durability compartment. You’re going to want to be careful with this one. Using it with a tripod is highly recommended. It can overheat as well, which is something to always keep in mind.

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4. Canon VIXIA HF R800

• Best for: Budget
• Key Features: 3-inch screen that works inside and outside. SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer. High-resolution HD CMOS Image Sensor. 
• Video Capture Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Optical Zoom: 32x
• Screen Size: 3 inches

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If you’re looking for a great camcorder that won’t break the bank, the R800 has plenty of features in an easy-to-use model. This handheld device has a stunning 3-inch capacitive touch panel LCD screen as well as a 57x advanced zoom to give you better range while you shoot.

It’s also lightweight, easy to manage, and gives you strong image quality without costing too much. On top of that, it does well in dimmer environments. That makes it a perfect choice for anyone who needs to actively record inside a gym. The image stabilization is impressive too.

As it’s a budget option, the R800 doesn’t quite have the strong resolution or ample range of features noted in more expensive models. The video is also a bit noisy. Still, if you’re looking for something to easily record basketball you won’t be disappointed.

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