Best Vlogging Camera? // Sony ZV-1 Hands-On Review

In this comprehensive review, we dive into the Sony ZV1, Sony's camera designed for beginner filmmakers, vloggers, and everyday video enthusiasts. Though I'm primarily a Canon user, I'm open to exploring other brands, and the Sony ZV1 caught my attention with its promising features.
Key Highlights:
Comparison with iPhone 11 and Canon M50: We test the ZV1 against the iPhone 11 and Canon M50, analyzing pros and cons to evaluate if it could replace these devices.
Pricing and Features: Priced at $749, the ZV1's features include 4K up to 30fps, 1080p up to 120fps, and super slow-motion capabilities.
Lens Quality: It comes with a non-interchangeable Zeiss 24-70mm lens, offering better low-light performance and background blur than typical beginner cameras.
Autofocus: Sony's real-time eye autofocus proves to be more reliable than Canon's, especially for beginners and vloggers.
Audio Quality: Built with vloggers in mind, the ZV1 boasts a three-capsule directional mic for superior audio, plus a unique multi-interface hot shoe for cable-free external mic connections.
Display and Usability: The side flip-out screen is a welcome addition, but lacks full touchscreen functionality for settings.
Battery Life and Accessories: Battery life is limited due to its compact size, and an external charger is recommended.
Final Thoughts:
The Sony ZV1 packs numerous features into a small, lightweight body. It stands out for vlogging, offering quality and convenience that challenge other cameras in its class. While it's not without its cons, the ZV1 fills a unique gap, especially for those prioritizing portability and ease of use over interchangeable lenses.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely, particularly for vloggers. It's hard to find another camera in this size and price range that matches the ZV1's capabilities for vlogging.
Check out our video for detailed test footage and comparisons to help you decide if the Sony ZV1 is the right choice for you!
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00:00 Test Footage
00:30 Why Did I Buy?
2:22 Price
2:40 Resolution/Frame Rate
3:20 Lens
4:25 Auto Focus
5:23 Stabilization
5:46 Low Light
5:56 Color Science
6:17 Audio Quality
7:17 Flip Out Screen
7:56 Battery Life
8:17 Wireless File Transfer
8:33 Vlogging Accessory
9:03 Would I Recommend It?

[@ruteshfamily2019]

Whoever watching this, I hope your channel grows ❤

[@petitebuni6518]

Thank You So much!!

THANK U THE BABY IS SO CUTE

[@nhlanhlangcamu]

Thank you I hope your Channel grows also❤️

[@itsmercedeswhite]

Thankyou this was sweet ❤

[@Gamermikkel]

Thansk alot!

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

The first major thing I’ve learned in 2022 is that I shoulda been following you a long time ago 🏆

[@adaywithcandice]

couldn't agree more!

[@Techoftomorrow]

Parker, would this be a good camera for B Roll for my KZbin channel. I mainly shoot computer parts...

[@ArtyMars]

Sounds perfect for that, it has auto focus for doing exactly that when showing parts or products, it has high quality 4k video recording but a less wide angle which wouldn't matter for b roll

[@mritunjayy]

I think you definitely need a camera which supports interchangeable lenses since shooting small computer parts will require a macro lens

[@GamingBarber]

Would this camera be good to use while I live stream my gaming content

[@BattleCamperHome]

This is one of the best tech reviews I've ever seen. No waffle, no messing around, comprehensive, no jargon, easy to understand for a lay person. Subbed, and thanks very much for a really helpful video.

[@CarlosoVeloz]

Why this is the only good review on KZbin of the Sony zv1? seriously thanks for all the efforts that you put on creating great content!

[@HeyyyHR]

there are tons now. I did a video on the camera and another video on the accessories I added kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5XYlH6XlKekmcU

[@kenwooitv]

I like how you compared it to the iPhone! Alot of us are using mobile phones.. and it’s good to know the differences! Thanks! ☺️

[@Cutieplus]

Nowadays, Samsung / Xiaomi smartphone have 1/1.33" sensor , around 9.6 x 7.2mm. Which is 3 times larger than the 1/2.5" in Iphone and only 40% smaller than 1" sensor.

[@wulanrussell]

agree with this

[@skiran69]

@@Cutieplus bit those sensors turned out to be shit. Especially those of samsung.

[@ayuapriyantii]

Yeah and I’m still using phone to filming . Hope could buy camera one day😇

[@fabiosousa4631]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/g57SoWtrqNOlhdE

[@kitfrias3469]

I really appreciate how this review did not waste my time, super helpful and informative, and a not snobby review from a professional. Well done!

[@OYOKO]

This was so incredibly helpful, my algorithm has been pushing adverts of this cam on almost every single page I visit. Great breakdown of pros and cons - Thank you!!

[@MrMuBot]

This is exactly what good youtube review videos should be like. Crisp and to the point. Lot of inspiration to take from this.

[@videogame-techreviews]

3:45- when he is talking about his lens not being able to be wider and "nothing he can do about it" incorrect. showing the video of the i phone 11 vrs the zv1 in a room with a window in then back. I can make my i phone 11 footage and zv1 footage better there and i'm not "pro"

[@AnomalyBelleza]

Wow, the first 5 seconds looked like a professionally shot car commercial.

[@ivryfitness4868]

Super helpful. I'm a fitness guy drowning in a cameraman's world and I appreciate the honest take on both its strengths and weaknesses! 💪🏼

[@MrMesospheric]

The kind of no-BS review that is far too rare on YT. Many thanks!

[@DJSkandalous]

Thank you for the comparison with the M50! I have the M50 and it is amazing but the kit lense was really poor with most of my indoor lighting since I dont own a godox or aputure light yet. So I actually bought a 2MM lense a couple days ago for the M50 and it made a world of difference. But it is amazing that this does really well in low light settings straight out of the box. I would just love a feature to go live with it on KZbin or twitch. I will probably end up saving for this one as it is more compact and seems to weigh less then a M50 with a 22 or 45MM lense attached.

[@davincidribbler7427]

I'm currently tossing up between this and the M50. What do you think?

[@TewnMacLean]

@@davincidribbler7427 I've been doing research for a while, was caught between the M50 and a6400 -but I think this takes the cake now!

[@alibasyari6535]

I am considering to buy between m50 too, what lenses did you use to make m50 better at low light?

[@orpheneus77]

@@alibasyari6535 buy the prime lens. I use viltrox speedbooster adapter so I can use full frame 50mm. From F1.8 to F1.2!

[@derekroberts5931]

So do lenses really make a difference on video? I want 2 things from a camera...low light. Not night time...but I lift at a dim lit gym and it's rugged...just pure iron weights. 2.) Use it for regular live streams via Webcam like or face talking recordings. I don't know if the m50 can beat a Webcam.

[@maxin3231]

I have watched a few KZbinr reviews about this camera and I got say this one it’s the most accurate and real. Good job!

[@architarora2180]

One of the best and MOST HONEST review by far on the internet ! Cleared all my doubts about the camera !

[@derekwhite3066]

Amazing review... Period. I've seen dozens of videos on cameras and none of them came close to providing me the information I needed as clearly and concisely as you did. 11/10 simple👌🏿

[@jeandenishaas]

Great examples of all the features, quick and clear, thank you!

[@mikasalife]

Love it when all the youtubers upload a review on the same product the same day!

[@timeijs12]

Gotta love videos jam-packed with information like this one. Thanks a ton!

[@deziderziga1484]

Man what a smooth video... I couldn't stop watching this guy knows what he is talking about.

[@YohanPartap]

Easily the best and most helpful review of this camera. Great comparisons and love the low light test. There are alot reviews for this camera and I have spent most of the day going through them, but I don't need to anymore, you answered all my questions. Subbed

[@migdafig9213]

Did u get it? If so, thoughts?

[@KristynAlexis]

Wheres your affiliate link? I am going to purchase and wanted you to get credit. Do you have an amazon affiliate link?

[@CamilleCollazo]

I was thinking the exact same thing lol

[@Mheardo27]

Awesome review. Great flow through all of the key features with just enough test footage/audio to give a taste. I might make this my next camera to start stepping up image/production quality for my premium fitness content (usually a one-man camera crew).

[@micahreynante1267]

perfectly explained. it's easy to understand for a non-camera enthusiast like me. good job dude.

[@HeyyyHR]

I'm struggling with learning cameras too. I know HR, not cameras lol. I added some accessories to my sony zv1 that I love kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5XYlH6XlKekmcU

[@DebzLife]

Yess! My favourite tutorial channel is only 3K away from the big number.. Dear Full Time Filmmaker team, thank you for making such quick, such helpful videos!

[@iamgeorgeseders]

I just came from seeing James' Review! Honestly besides the internal lens and not having a wider angle, this is a really good camera! And I might jump on it!

[@KazeKenshin]

This is the most comprehensive review I've yet seen for teh ZV-1. Thank you!

[@abnpadilla]

dude, this is the second review video from you that I have watched, and I must say Big Thank You. you are detailed, clear, and really give (from what I can see) all the pros and cons. Thank you much sir!

[@zacgarland38]

Hey, Mr. Walbeck, I am a 12-year-old kid In California and while quarantined at home I have always dreamed of having the skills of filming and editing you have so I started a youtube channel to chase that dream I just wanted to thank you for the inspiring videos and the encouraging content. One of the videos from the quarantine is dropping at 3:30 today And I would love some support! Thanks!

[@AssemblyPoint2019]

wow goodluck to you! be safe there.

[@WesleyProductions]

Subbing Zac! You sound like me.

[@PeterKae]

Just keep going Zac! You will make it :)

[@brenthughldridge546]

Zac Garland you got a new sub!

[@mirrorlessny]

@@PeterKae agree, keep going, enjoy the ride & don't worry about views & subs

[@Adventurist]

Thanks for the great video - didn't even know that thing existed! We are planning a round-the-world trip on motorcycles and want to document everything. This camera is straight up perfect for that. Looks like we can even save footage on the go via wireless transfer.

[@MRTEAM-yr3qn]

Your video is really useful and straight to the point where i can decide my choice right off the bat! Thanks a ton!

[@joshmoxeypodcast]

Thank you for this man! What a beautiful camera this is. The low light and are AF are so impressive for the price point

[@RashidFreestyler]

Good to see the Parker back! Thanks for this Review !

[@juneanthonyduque179]

Agreed with the "practicality of smartphones" vs bigger cams specially when travelling. Tried lugging my oldie eos 7d for three days in my London trip and it did wear me out after a few hours of walking.

[@KOKOBC]

June Anthony Duque yea and you kinda stand out doing it cause who brings a camera traveling these days, I just get a phone with the BEST camera

[@xLukeFPS]

@@KOKOBC phone cameras suck compared to a real camera lol

[@eosio8450]

「nayrFX」 yeah no shit sherlock, now why don’t you try shooting a vlog with a RED 6k camera lol. Your hand would break before even reaching the 1 minute mark

[@davidortiz7]

Too heavy for you?

[@willfarleigh1568]

For someone like me who does not know how to change lenses and what they do, this sony was perfect. Great review

[@HeyyyHR]

adding a wider lenses is my next move. So far these are the accessories that I bought with the Sony zv1 kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5XYlH6XlKekmcU

[@kmaha2099]

The best and detailed information I’ve ever received on KZbin about a camera 🔥🔥🔥 Off to buy this for myself Helped me a lot making my mind about what to choose for my start in vlogging career 💕💕

[@LeonUnity]

I've been using the a6500 camera for years, which for me was a perfect travel camera that could kinda do it all, professional work and fun stuff at home because it is smaller than my hand. Only trouble is the lenses, so I've been looking at the 16-55mm f/2.8 as a "do it all lens". And while I still think this is a better solution. I think that the ZV-1 might be very useful if I get to a point where I'm going out an shooting more often, if for no other reason than it could be a useful second camera to film BTS on when I don't have a second shooter.

[@DiazThumb]

By far one of my favorites reviews because of the insights and comparisons. I ended learning that de M50 is also a great option if I want to mess a little bit with lenses. Lov'em both anyways!

[@victoriagabriella1103]

I agree. I say stick with this format for comparisons. Literally the most helpful

[@destinytrejo4637]

Finally!! A camera review video that makes sense! Thank you so much!

[@trbshopper]

What a great informative review. You covered everything I needed to know and no more. Thank you! subbed

[@MosesJSaldanha]

Fantastic review. Thank you 🙏

[@glpro2696]

Hands down the best review ever

[@faithyou6460]

I just got an ad for Parker's business... on his own video *mind blown*

[@reynareyna2186]

1.9 mil LETSSS GOOO congrats dude and thx for the camra vid really helped

[@zackmwekassamotivation4525]

Almost a million SUBS

[@Saleto]

check again baby :p

[@quansten2809]

1,23 now :D Quarantine gains for filmmakers

[@dino5254]

You sold me on it because of the Canon M50 comparisons. The wide depth of field problem I've seen from all reviewers are because you are all using that Sony Remote grip. Try it with another stick. I wasn't going to get the Sony grip since it's just a convenience thing. I decided I will get the Sony Grip and attached it to my Ulanzi power grip. I'll have a little more extension for more wider depth and plug it in to the power bank grip if I run out of juice.

[@adriennemhr]

THANK YOU!! Wow!! Such a great review!!!

[@EGJPT]

The best review hands down! I'm definitely going to buy this for my first camera, thank you!

[@joexaeraven6051]

Best review this far. GOOD JOB

[@sirelot2487]

When you get a Parker Walbeck ad when watching a Parker Walbeck video 😂

[@whisperingbeeasmr]

Thank you for the great review! I just purchased it and I’m excited!

[@FinLineFly]

This is such a great review - no fuss - no BS - and NO TIME WASTING or attempts to extend duration!

[@dudeiusmannigast1543]

He did however forget it can be powered from USB connection so bring a power bank or connect it to a USB charger at home and you will not have to worry at all about battery life. Also... It's possible to transfer both photos and videos with this camera to your smart device using sonys imagine edge app (and it's also possible to edit the videos using the imagine edge add on app (edit speed, cut etc)

[@MsMaxine215]

I can't wait to get my camera on Wednesday! So ready to start my weight loss chanel! Thank so for this! The product showcasing feature is going to be everything for me!

[@Treasure-bl3cn]

and, what happend? did it work?

[@ZachMcB]

Cheers for being so concise.

[@armaniusmaximus]

Great review! Concise and to the point, but with good sample footage. Thank you!!!

[@steveteare3865]

Thank you for packing this full of useful info and not wasting a single second of my time!

[@SwoleTarzan]

hello, excuse me but may i know the correct/best lense to use for vlogging? is it portrait or wide angle?

[@VannieEats]

Best review on this camera! Thank you! I’m going to check it out in stores now 😄

[@inlion9235]

actually watched the entire video since it was straight to the point and very informative unlike some other photography channels. Thank you!

[@BoTMoNHuK]

Great review! Thanks mate

[@schoeferfilm]

I think this is a perfect 🎥 for holidays, where I donˋ t want to carry my heavy normal equipment 😉💪🏼 best cinematic greetings from 🇩🇪

[@hope4change2012]

I don’t make videos of any kind and I still enjoy watching your reviews

[@Movingstaar]

No need to ask questions coz u described everything what people need to know

[@vertigev]

Man that beginning sequence looks great..

[@kelseytisdale586]

Thank you this was so helpful. Almost bought the Sony A6400, but I can see now that this camera has all the features and quality I need. and at a cheaper price. :)

[@The3-MinuteHealth168]

I will get one.

[@bradedwards4407]

Ok

[@TheDarklord7000]

Ok

[@MeadeSkeltonMusic]

@@TheDarklord7000 OK

[@LayrtizParkProductions]

Ok

[@vasiliskarkalas]

Alright, that's a huge step, wow

[@learnenglishwithme5679]

Sony is FABULOUS!. Every year we see different creation.... Amaaaaaazing!

[@DanielCarriere2012]

I used this video as a review and purchased the camera, I love it !

[@vidorrobin2169]

imagine the A series having those side-flip screens just wow

[@mirrorlessny]

a7sIII ? for PRO vloggers 😏

[@MarcinHaFilms]

Well, last thing I need in sony alpha is the flip screen :)

[@Cutieplus]

Sony A77, A99, A77mk2 and A99mk2 all have 3 axis swivel-and-tilt articulating screen, which is better than the ZV-1.

[@matthagge4792]

I love your reviews. No bullshit, no hype, no fanboyism, just facts without being a bland spec list video.

[@leneced9117]

This was such a good review, thank you!

[@sakinashabani9894]

This was extremely useful, thank you so much!

[@PlayEngage]

You forgot to mention the built-in ND filters and can also be used as a webcam for livestreaming and video conferencing without the need for an Elgato Cam Link 4K.

[@caesargiovanni1720]

Idk about cameras but this makes it easy for you to understand💯

[@HeyyyHR]

I'm rough with cameras too, but videos like these help me with buying the sony zv1 and with the accessories too kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5XYlH6XlKekmcU

[@pakistanmerijaan4017]

best and honest comparison on youtube about sony zv-1. thanks a lot

[@lisandrogallo]

Clear, precise, and cute. The whole package!

[@raheem_4689]

😍👌🏻 As always Nice Review

[@aniketsoni2452]

soon you will reach 1 million,,,,,,,,,yeah it's really exiciting

[@isaandtai]

Very thorough and helpful review, keep up the good work!

[@shanehubbardcreator]

I’m probably not the first to say this, but this review was by far the best one on this camera I’ve seen yet! Wish I would have seen it sooner. So many bogus videos about this camera I was about to give up on it entirely. Thank you for taking the time to care and make a great review !!

[@jimmeskimen]

At least I won't be getting irritating phone calls on my camera as I vlog! That happens a lot when I shoot on an iPhone. I know that you can turn off notifications and put on airplane mode, I know. But sometimes I don't remember.

[@azucenagerman8803]

Or at the moment that happens the action you can’t wait to turn off notifications, I agree

[@MakoNext]

they are solving this with software in the next version of iOS with the focus mode/profiles

[@hofra01]

Sony Auto focus system is just unbelievable, even canon can’t compete with Sony in this department.

[@jmackultra]

Facts. They're killing the game.

[@hunglemed]

Lol

[@angelrevirdist]

This video was extremely helpful! Thank you for sharing!

[@lambo-ca]

Thanks man. You just made it clear for me.

[@DerrekLeigh]

Speaking of the convenience and quality of an iPhone, I wonder what you'd think about the Sony Xperia 1 II that was just released. I've been hearing really good things so far, and it looks to have some impressive manual photo and video capabilities.

[@Saltycures]

You forgot to mention it’s got some pretty solid picture profile options, plus built-in ND filters for filming in brighter lighting conditions at slower shutter speeds. Also, technically cheaper than a new iPhone 11 Pro!

[@HeyyyHR]

I'm still working on learning those technical features, but I did a video on the accessories I added to my sony zv1 camera kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5XYlH6XlKekmcU

[@adentistslifeinablink3975]

Does it have Bluetooth option ? Also whats the battery time ?

[@videogame-techreviews]

He forgot way more more than that but hey he has 1.7 mil subscribers so shhhhhh. :-p

[@switchunboxing]

What’s ND

[@monlegaspi]

​@@switchunboxing Neutral Density - it's a glass filter you use to attach in your lens for bright shooting scenarios

[@joshuaaruiz]

Wow this is video was very VERY well put together! Thanks for the information !!!!!

[@spoown007]

Great review man ! Help me a lot about some features of this camera, thanks again.

[@markshirley01]

Ive used a ZV1 great little camera - gyro stabalisation is very useful. Like Parker says a 20-60mm version would be a killer product. Sony has probably heard this from many reviews now, so I wouldnt be surprised if the v2 get this.

[@Reporterfy]

I'm a Vlogger in Asia and just purchased 2 of these cameras.

[@mohmethlover.smedia825]

Buy. Me.😕😕

[@CZYLE888]

How much is the sony Zv-1?

[@gianlamina2978]

ANGELA DAVID I think 5500 bucks?

[@BackBeatGossip]

Omg the sound quality was freaking amazing!

[@thedominatingteacher]

I just got this camera for my videos for teaching! This is very helpful.

[@MohamedShaarawy]

Thank you brother

[@ms-dk6xh]

Advance congrats for 1million subs 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳❤️

[@mexicotraveller0]

you convinced me I loved the camera it will be very helpful when recording 🇲🇽

[@didiudoaffah4359]

One of my all time favorite videos. I love this camera, I sure hope to buy one soon

[@bobbyrkrishna2822]

Amazing. You are explaining about the features of the camera very accurately in the video. But never said anything about it’s till image quality. Is this camera not good enough for still photography?

[@Izimas]

I wonder how this camera would stack up against the Canon G7X

[@thethriftyfawn]

Excellent video! Love this review! 😊❤👍

[@Ethan-xy3jv]

Very insightful video! Thank you