Tbh, I totally agree with the idea of saving some cash, but u also gotta think about the technical side of how ur accessories are gonna connect. If u go with an older one, youre stuck with Lightning cables and adapters, whereas the newer ones are basically all USB-C now. Idk, it might seem small, but once u start trying to plug in mics or external drives, the compatibility becomes a real headache. Just get any of the ones with the standard port if u want to future-proof ur setup. It saves u from buying a ton of dongles that might not even work right. Not 100% sure if the transfer speeds are that much better for everyone, but for vlogging, having that universal connection is just way more practical in the long run. Basically, just look at what port ur other gear uses before u commit.

Like someone mentioned, the hardware connection is actually a huge deal for reliability. In my experience, you want a setup that wont fail in the middle of a shoot.

• <a href=" https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Apple+ iPhone+15+128GB&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p4624852.m570.l1311&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337998953&customid=22&toolid=10001&mkevt=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Apple iPhone 15 128GB: This is my pick for $800. The USB-C port is much more secure for vlogging. You can plug in a <a href=" https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw= Sennheiser+MKE+400+Mobile+Kit&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p4624852.m570.l1311&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337998953&customid=22&toolid=10001&mkevt=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Sennheiser MKE 400 Mobile Kit directly without worrying about flimsy dongles snapping off.
• <a href=" https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Apple+ iPhone+13+Pro+128GB&_sacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p4624852.m570.l1311&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&siteid=0&campid=5337998953&customid=22&toolid=10001&mkevt=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Apple iPhone 13 Pro 128GB: Still a powerhouse for video quality, but lightning is kinda becoming a headache for compatibility. I've had many cables lose their grip over time. I always tell people to invest in a SmallRig Universal Mobile Phone Cage as well. It keeps the phone safe and gives you a much better grip when youre moving. Reliability is everything when you only have one chance to catch a shot... let me know if you want more ideas on rig setups.

Happy with my iPhone 13 Pro. Great video, and I paid around $750. No complaints.

Skip the number hype! The 13 Pro's sensor is surprisingly good for the price used. Check eBay; you might snag one around $600. Honestly, spending extra on the 15 for minimal gains isn't worth it for vlogging unless you NEED ProRes. Just grab a decent external mic; audio matters way more!

Forget pro services! iPhone 13's stabilization is amazing for DIY vlogs. Spend the extra cash on a DJI Osmo Mobile SE gimbal – game changer!

Skip the newest hype. A used iPhone 13 Pro works WELL for vlogging. I've had mine for years, solid video, and you'll save a ton. No complaints. Refurbished, you can find them well under $800. Spend the savings on a decent mic instead!

Forget just iPhones! For $800, consider a used Sony mirrorless camera. Market research shows dedicated cameras often outperform phones in video quality, even older models. You gain better lenses and manual control – a huge advantage for serious vlogging. My 2018 Sony Alpha still beats any phone I've used!

Forget just video quality; think mounting safety! I've had cheaper mounts fail mid-drive. Consider the 13; plenty good enough video. Invest saved into a RAM Mount – rock solid, about $70. Dropped phones are a distraction, and a cracked screen is the LEAST of your worries when driving!

From long-term use, iPhone 13 Pro still kicks butt. Save your cash. Got mine used for $650. Video's solid; just upgrade the mic.