Sony ZV-E1 VS a7C II VS a7CR | Which Should You Buy?

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00:00 Intro
00:19 Initial Verdict
02:17 Ease of Use
03:39 Ergonomics: Grip, Buttons, Touch Screen, Customizations
05:21 Battery, Inputs/Outputs
05:51 HDMI
06:15 Mic & Hotshoe
06:46 LCD Screen
07:05 EVF
08:00 AI Autofocus
08:30 AI Framing Stabiizer
08:50 Photo Resolution
10:19 Mechanical VS Electronic & Flash Photography
10:46 Stabilization
11:15 How to Save Money on Lenses!
12:10 What is 4K Oversampling?
13:18 Rolling Shutter
13:40 How to Shoot 4K APS-C with ZV-E1
14:09 4K 60p Crop
15:15 Picture Profiles, Codecs, & Bit Rates
15:38 Low Light
16:02 Dynamic Stabilization
16:28 Long Recording & Overheating
17:47 Price & Mix and Match!

[@mclive7937]

Really well done comparison. I enjoyed the video a lot! Nice work Jason!

[@conradjavier5180]

Great video Jason!

[@acooknamedMatt]

Thank you! The only one i found comparing the zve1 to the new cameras. I’ll just buy another zv

[@RodneyGracia]

Thanks for the comparisons Jason, especially throwing the ZV-E1 in there. That's exactly what I will do, what you recommend at the end. I am adding the a7cII as my hybrid camera and keeping my ZV-E1 as my dedicated video camera mounted in my studio. I think 33mp is the sweet spot for image size for me for stills. Anything larger is a drag for editing and not something I really need.

[@lonceyswildcairns333]

I’m going in the middle with the A7cii 😊 Cheers much for all your hard work in helping us decide ❤

[@hallease]

I'm glad you made this! I bought the ZV-E1 when it first came out and so far no regrets at all. I already own the FX3 and the A7C original so I was hoping they would update some things with the A7CII but alas, like you, I'm happy with my ZVE1 purchase. Since I'm almost exclusively video, it's everything I need in a smaller form factor

[@user-oj7ul5cy3q]

how is the ZV E1? Im planning to purchase one

[@cinematools9621]

That's a very thorough comparison video. Thanks.

[@chenxu9532]

This is really helpful! I am geting the zve1!!!

[@mylhainen]

Both rolling shutter and 4K60P limit are due to slower sensor readout speed of A7C II. It is not about oversampling, but slower reading sensor compared to ZV-E1 (or A7S III etc)

[@HighPressureAviationFilms]

Thanks for the review! Just ordered the ZVE1 for its low light capability and that is still the best choice ! 😊

[@user-oj7ul5cy3q]

how is the ZV E1? Im planning to purchase one

[@HighPressureAviationFilms]

@@user-oj7ul5cy3qso far really good. I am still a bit confused on the menu sometimes but I’ll get through this

[@ptrively]

Hey Jason! Thanks for the video, any chance for a A7CR vs. A7RV vid? :) I'm looking to buy my second body, currently using a A7III, and I'm really struggling between RV and CR, doing only photography, mostly landscapes/architectural.

[@TheSpade357]

ZV-E1 is my choice to go along with my A1. I was really rooting for 4k60 no crop and Dynamic Active Stabilization on the A7CII so I can just bring one camera with when I travel, but Sony wasn’t gonna do and the E1 sale. Oh well. ZV-E1 on way!

[@MurlykinYaroslav]

Hello, thank you for your videos. I would appreciate hearing your recommendation. I'm considering upgrading from my Sony a6400 to a full-frame camera, and I'm facing a dilemma: whether to spend more and get the FX3 or save money and go for the ZV-E1, getting pretty much the same image but with the remaining funds invested in more lenses, etc? I shoot a variety of content, from events to weddings, so my direction is quite diverse. I really want to upgrade and start to make more professional videos, but I’m kinda stuck between these two and don’t know what to choose.

[@OneTakeMedias]

I plan to use my Sony A7S Ill with a 24-70mm lens for stationary tripod shots at 4K 24fps to capture the entire 30-minute ceremony. In addition, I'm considering getting the Sony ZV-E1 for all-day run-and-gun shots during the wedding. This setup should help me efficiently film the ceremony edit and other dynamic moments throughout the day. What are your thoughts? The Sony zv-e1 can do tons of shots for a 10 hour wedding day?

[@vincentc8526]

Looking for a long time for a comparison video between the new A7C and the ZVE1. finally... I don't care about what's the difference between A7CI and A7CII. thanks, Jason

[@engelsperez5439]

Hey Jason! Absolutely love your content. You’ve helped me find the camera that suits my needs! I’m going with the ZVE1. If I can only get one lens to would you recommend the Sony 20-70 f4? Seems great and compact which is my goal. I like to shoot mostly documentaries and short films.

[@user-oj7ul5cy3q]

Tamron 25-75 2.8

[@LensProWork]

Hi Jason, This is Nick, from Sydney. I really enjoy your videos, and I have learned so many things from you. I jumped into photography two years ago as an amateur looking for some pro-quality work as a hobby rather than as a professional. I currently have the Sony ZV-E10 with four APS-C lenses (Sony E 11mm f/1.8, Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G, Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8, and Sigma 16mm f/1.4). I am thinking of upgrading to either the Sony A6700 or the Sony A7C II, so I would love to see a video comparing those two cameras. I am wondering if you could make such a video or at least give me your thoughts about it. Keep doing such a good job.

[@bladerealm124]

Can you test whether there is any difference in bokeh between the cameras when using a high shutter speed (1/4000) and a fast prime lens wide open in the various shutter modes? Does EFCS on the A7CII have a negative impact on bokeh? Is it smoother in full electronic?

[@hungrybearphotography]

I really waited for the a7cII because I wanted a second camera for mainly video (vlogging, talking head) and a little bit of photography with shorter lenses (on my a7rV mainly my 200-600 is attached). Thanks for the video Jason. I guess I go with the zv-e1 because my focus is on video for the 2nd camera :)

[@aruntakio]

excellent review brother jason...want to buy for my vloging vedeo thanks for review...love to watch your vedeo

[@Slimgosa]

Awesome comparison. As a 1st gen A7C owner, the 4K60p quirks of newer models make me wait it out for a 2nd gen FX3 instead.

[@beirutgaming]

exactly

[@byigit86]

still very happy with my a6000 for photography and just bought zv-e1 to learn videography.

[@bankomeister11]

Has Sony changed the way the camera packages the video clips on the SD card since the a6600? I have a super clunky workflow to get the clips out of the package and need a simpler one (or a new camera 🤩) to get the clips onto my iPad

[@Photo_Jed]

Thank you so much for explaining. I think I will continue to use zv-e1👍👍👍

[@frxnccesco4697]

Does the 4K60fps cropped mode on the A7cII reduces and affects its lowlight capabilities or is it just a frame crop? Cause im still battling between getting the a6700 (coming from a ZVE10) or getting the a7Cii to move to full frame and make it worthy the extra money. But if the 4k60fps of the a7cii is gonna perform the same as the 4k60fps of the a6700 in terms of low light no point in putting the extra cash for the a7cii.

[@GeorgeArroyoMusic]

Thank you very much Jason! Total beginner here and you convinced me to get a ZV-E1 as my first full frame camera.

[@FactNight]

Between A7iv & A7cii, which one should i pick ( i do both photography & videography)

[@surajitghorai6977]

Recently i using sony a7 iii camera, in 2023 i want to upgrade, my perpous is wedding cinematography and little bit photos, i am thinking a7 iv / a7 s iii Can you help me to decide

[@Philipanko]

Jason - What Ronin Gimbal are you using with the Sony ZV-E1, and why did you choose that particular one over so many choices on the market?

[@wakeywarrior]

I like taking photos but my main interest is video. I’m very surprised how good the ZVE1 photos are. 4k120FPS is essential to me as is low light. The video out of that thing is astonishing. The ZVE1 has just dropped £450 in price now in the U.K. and is also £200 cheaper than the A7Cii.

[@rustamdoc2827]

What about Photo Stabilization on ZV-E1? How Many Stops? Video doesn’t answer. Can you answer me? I want bay ZV 🙏🏻 Need Matrix stabilization in photo

[@sarahheyd9707]

When it comes to photos: are the 12 mp from the ZV-E1 good enough to create crispy clean album covers that have the size of 3000x3000 pixel? (I am a beginner so this would be my first camera) Thank you for your amazing videos i always enjoy them!

[@ricknotd1cc]

Yeah you can take some sick album covers with he ZV-E1 because the camera can take 4000x3000 images. You can then turn around a make a kick ass music video on the same camera. love mine check out my vlog setup on my channel

[@sivakumarkolli3930]

Hi Jason I want to upgrade my a6400, I am getting almost the same price for a7c and a6700 which one can I get

[@nelsonngu]

I am thinking to pair my zv-e1 with my a7IV. Love the size and able to share my FF lens across.

[@cameronwilliams4791]

This man hardly ever misses

[@explodingheavens]

Just so you know I could get some glimpse with my zoom lens at f2.8, apsc old, shutter speed of 4fps and 12k iso, I would love something better tho... not like full spectrum conversion is an option with only few lens supporting that.

[@Pontcher]

I'm still going with ZVE1! But soon, I hope to get the A7CR!

[@DMGGoodTimes]

1:46 "despite" i think its because of low megapixel, low light performance is better, correct me plz if i m wrong!😅

[@nafnaf0]

Great comparison, obviously the ZV-E1 was made for you. I have pre-ordered a Silver A7CR. I will most likely keep until something comes along that is as small as it and could do 8K 120. I am thinking something like an Alpha 1C Mark II (A1Cii), coming out in 2029... assuming photography is still a thing then

[@OoTigerEyeoO]

Does the A7c ii have fully touch control like ZV-e1 and A74 ?

[@travellingdoctorsaab]

Hey Jason, I’m a travel Vlogger with Run-Go style of vlogging where I attach the camera set up on a long selfie stick, holding in my hand and speaking facing the camera. For this, I need STABILISATION and WIDE FIELD OF VIEW at the same time. Along with LIGHT WEIGHT SET-UP. Which camera do you recommend? I don’t have any budget issues! Thanks already

[@JustinWu]

Zve1 for all the needs you shared. I went through japan no issues

[@artventurespro]

Does the 7CIi have Timelapse feature like the ZVE1?that’s what I’m leaning on more coz it cuts the workload in post with the in camera edit

[@brettgoulder5208]

Yes it does

[@DDHDTV]

Jason! Regarding shutter. Do you know if the EFCS will have impact on LED lights and Flash photography?

[@craiggillette4381]

There's quite a bit of discussion on the EFCS, various things, on Dpreview and Fred Miranda Sony forums.

[@extremeboatdockingmedia]

Are there any software updates since this video was released?

[@-grey]

I love that Sony is doing this. I hope they come out with more compact f2 or 2.8 primes for these also. I'm looking to leave Fujifilm since now their line is too big and expensive for what they offer me. I'm torn between these and the Canon R8. 🤔

[@JasonVong]

Yes! A refresh on the 28mm F2 would be nice! And I would love to see a more compact 85mm of some kind!

[@-grey]

@@JasonVong Yes, please! If they came in the form factor of the newer 24mm with the aperture ring, even better! I'd also not hate a Sony update to the Zeiss 35f2.8. ✨

[@PhatsoJuggalo806]

I would sway away from the r8 if your considering video locked rf mount and 24 minute record limit because how small the batteries are.

[@franklinpark4475]

Can you explain how the oversampling causes rolling shutter?

[@TundeEszlari]

Great video.

[@MollyFitzBrown]

Great comparison! I really love the a7c ii but I’m happy with my zv-e1 purchase. I always say I want to take pics with it too but I use it for video 100% of the time 😂

[@JasonVong]

I’m glad the zv-e1 is working out for you!

[@rustamdoc2827]

What about Photo Stabilization on ZV-E1? How Many Stops?

[@schoeferfilm]

Definitely the ZVE1 😅 a perfect b-cam for my FX6 and top for holidays

[@spritual_enlightenment]

Thank U for heat management time comparison.

[@hakangocerler3040]

I dont get it. You an also choose the image size on CR I am sure. SO you can reduce it to 12 mp, no??

[@antonlim1895]

why is there no comparison time 4k60p xavc S 10 bit?

[@johnhann1852]

I love your videos, Jason! The humor is great! However, I might suggest looking into the facts behind noise in photos and sensor resolution. While Sony and the other manufacturers themselves propagated the idea that smaller megapixel cameras have better noise performance, that isn’t true when comparing images at the same size for photos (in essence, higher resolution, sensors allow you to zoom into the noise more, but don’t actually have more noise when images are compared at the same size). I think the video side of things probably gets much more complicated especially with variety of differences between the video modes of all the Sony cameras.

[@JasonVong]

Thanks John! I will look into it and will try to be more clear on that next time. Video noise difference is significant for sure.

[@Asche5558]

Wich one do u recommend for Vlogging ?

[@Kingshaaner]

What do you think about buy Sigma contemporary 16mm and 56mm instead a Sigma 18-50? I'm looking something with great quality without sacrifice the versatility

[@JasonVong]

Oh they're great! I reviewed them long time ago! F/1.4 is special!

[@teelim]

Great comparison video! Just wondering, for the A7CR, if the photo resolution is set to medium (should be around 26MP if same as A7V), is the picture downsampled or cropped? I'm thinking that if it's downsampled, then it could be a good option for normal use as 26MP files should be better for sharing, and only using the 60MP mode when necessary. Thanks!

[@JasonVong]

Its downsampled!

[@teelim]

@@JasonVong Thanks. That's good to know 👍🏼

[@RandumbTech]

Be careful using the M RAW setting when shooting FF. LR does not allow the use of the Denoise feature for those files.

[@A1000Truths]

Sticking with the A7RV

[@jasonlau8944]

After reviewing those three compact size camera, as a videographer but sometimes photo too during work, I think I ZV-E1 upgrade from my A7M3 is awesome in terms of better video, but due to the banding of electronic shutter photo in low light, I think I might get another A7CII after few months when the price drop a little in the market.

[@ali99_82]

Why not the A7s m3?

[@YoungBlaze]

Yay, now where is the new a7s4 with the detachable monitor and inbody video transmission

[@gregorybeale]

Has anyone tried those 3rd market fans for zv1? I live in Thailand so overhearing is a thing

[@explodingheavens]

Would be great to have moonlight still and video comparison...

[@KillerTacos54]

Fantastic video

[@DDHDTV]

Hey, regarding using APSC lenses on the A7CR, which results in 26 MP. Is there anything left from the full frame advantage? i guess the low light performance is the same as well due to pixel density. If you plan to use primarly apsc lenses, you can go for the a6700 anyways, right?

[@JasonVong]

Yes, save the money and get the a6700 if you will be primarily using apcs lenses. The 26mp S35 mode advantage from the a7CR is nice and if you use it with a FF lens, you will get a further reach which is nice! So if you're thinking about transitioning to FF soon, the a7CR would be a good jumping point as you can still use your APSC lenses while you build up your FF collection.

[@craiggillette4381]

I've got an A6400, A7Riv, now an a6700. I'd agree on the "image" side of things and the A6700. There's not a single right answer. If sticking to "small," the A6700 is a good choice. Recent developments in processing software have eaten away at the "full frame advantage." But Sony doesn't seem inclined to provide us with a big body aps-c and there are features available in the A7Riv and A7Rv that make them both high end FF bodies but also crazy good (if pricey) aps-c, too

[@oleha93]

It’s Q3 2023 and Sony keeps releasing 4k60p 1.5x/1.2x crop mode in their hybrid FF cameras. What the hell? Should have been in the a7iii in 2018

[@technicalsovereign1807]

Please make a Vlogger perspective comparison of zve1 and Sony A7c ii

[@richardruda267]

Excellent !!

[@bankomeister11]

I’m still overwhelmed and can’t decide between the ZVE1 and the A7C2 😮

[@arjumandvillagecooking]

Me too, 😮

[@bladerealm124]

What are your top travel lenses for your ZV-E1?

[@kentao4]

Thanks for this. But now I need a dedicated comparison of the a7cii vs the a6700 in your experience! I’m really trying to breakdown what makes it 800 dollars more expensive. I own the a7rv and looking for a good travel cam. These two are about the same size but what’s the real world performance difference outside of apsc vs ff??

[@tasadem20]

Same. I have a7iv mainly used for vlogging but it is a heavy cam and I mostly ended up using gopro when I do handheld vlogging. First was looking at a7cii vs fx30 comparisons, but discovered this zve1 which is great but it’s getting expensive. They are new cameras so picking a used one is out of option. A6700 looks good but also not cheap, around $1400 almost fx30 price. A6600 or a7c can be found less than $1000 used online. Wish there was a good small compact affordable option that offers promising video like zve1 offers.

[@kentao4]

@@tasadem20 I get it. Long story short I bought the a6700 but then discovered it was previously opened so I returned. I tried out the a7cii and just never returned it lol. It’s the best middle ground I think. It won’t be too far off the zve1 and still ff yet good for travel!

[@tasadem20]

@@kentao4 yeah, I think so too. I am glad you are happy with your decision. I think it is the best hybrid cam for now.

[@kentao4]

@@tasadem20thanks man. I’m good after I pulled the trigger lol. On purpose, Sony will not allow us cover everything with one camera. I think you’d get tired of the zve1 unless it’s a dedicated video camera. I just didn’t want to be running around with $6k of camera equipment. Much better to have the a7cii because it doesn’t look expensive and with a prime lens, it’s hard to spot.

[@PaulFeinberg]

amazing breakdown as always! Keep at it! Man tempting to sell my a7siii and my a7c to get a ZV-E1 & a7cii to replace them lol

[@Kyeorii]

We’re gonna need a new lens guide to match with all these compact cameras.

[@Gohjunyi88]

rs3 mini or M3S is better?

[@ibraheemsony9947]

They just re release camera with updated cpu and cheaper smaller body and do some compensation . These camera are a7s3 , a7 4 and the a7 v

[@jaymills1720]

Which sensor is a better image for video? Color, DR, highlight rolloff and sharpness?

[@TravisVarga]

zve1, it kinda rules

[@jaymills1720]

@@TravisVarga so I’m about to grab one used just worry about heat compared to a7c2

[@TravisVarga]

@@jaymills1720 haha I’m testing out right now / get the Ulanzi fan for peace of mind. Also the white one is lit and looks like a mini red camera. Evf on a7c2 is kinda a nightmare my eyelashes got it weird as I’m spoiled from the a7s iii EVF.

[@simoz78]

Overheating vs 1.5 crop... I will pick a second fx30 or a6700

[@mlhm5]

If you are going to carry around a camera as heavy as the a6700 (the a7c is the same size and weight) then carry a full frame unless you want to film in 4K60 and IMO it is not worth the price difference between the original a7c and the a7cII. Additionally if you plan to use big heavy lens on the a7c, the just buy the a7iv or iii depending on what you need. As far as just photos, the a7iii is top notch.

[@georgemahlum6542]

I make do with a used pair of A7c bodies along with an even older original A7s (for that occasional low light fun) video can be done on smart phones/go pro/ etc...LOL I mostly do street work/fun here in my retired home (bangkok)

[@FrancisAlbert1990]

can you add the a6700?

[@Maxhuertas]

I’m still happy with my Sony a7c and Sony a7II but it is a nice camera

[@Just_Kev_]

I pre-ordered both the A7C II and the A7CR.. still deciding which one I want to buy. I do strictly photography.. never had a high res camera before so not sure how my M1 Macbook will handle the large files.. at the same time, I want that flexbility of cropping and shooting in super 35m. It's like having 2 lens in one!

[@JasonVong]

Max Tech has great performance videos on macbooks! I'm sure you can look up their old reviews to see how Lightroom handles a7R files!

[@Just_Kev_]

@@JasonVong oh perfect!!! I'll check em' out. Definitely don't want to make the "vong" decision with my purchase.

[@paullichte]

I’m using the A7RIV on an 2019 MacBook Pro without any problems. I think video editing is something where you will rather see differences.

[@Just_Kev_]

@@paullichte good to know!! thank you!!

[@135eddy]

ZV-E1 for me

[@video.s.zharkov6160]

Nice video

[@merv3930]

So which one are you keeping to compliment the zv-e1?

[@JasonVong]

I'm not getting either, at least not now, esp because I own the a1. But if I had to choose, a7CR!

[@lewcehjitl3282]

A7Cii with the a6700 😊.

[@user-cu4dm3ip3i]

Jason I think you need to test with 256GB or even 512GB V90 cards when testing 4K 60p+ video recording times. I like how you used fire emoji for overheat and a flag emoji for a filled card though. Thank you for this comparison. These are the cameras I was looking at. I think I'm going with the A7C R.

[@JasonVong]

I agree! I've been meaning to get high capacity cards to test recording times but I would need multiple and these cards have a hefty price tags 😅

[@user-cu4dm3ip3i]

@@JasonVong Those tough cards are spendyyyyy!

[@arjumandvillagecooking]

Good video,👍😊

[@clivesheppard]

Thanks a lot for the really helpful info. Looks like it'll be an A7CR for me. What's the really groovy background music around the 17 minute mark? It's sooo cool and funky! 😁👍

[@soorajsaikumar]

For a beginner KZbinr, which cam will be nice?

[@JasonVong]

If it's out of these 3, I would say ZV-E1. Or else, wait for ZV-E10 II

[@LaloFlores]

8:02 Misspelled Intelligence. It happens :)

[@JasonVong]

shouldve use ChatGPT to proofread my video 🤣

[@VirtousStoic]

Omg zv e1 flssh photography is so bad tysm for explaining thsr

[@explodingheavens]

Just want to point out, when shooting at moonlight, stills are better with hi res until the limit of iso100k, then it comes... R line can do movies with 30k iso max, c line with 100k, s or zve1 iso 400k, so the stills. 12mp is just too little in daylight, but it devours R line's 30k with its 400k iso at night. It's just so unfair 😢😢😢. Also important to mention when shooting with e shutter, sensor read out speed matters, so does physical shutter as it removes sensor heat noise with long exposures. Choose wisely.

[@Leobynight]

I'm still getting the A7RV

[@francoismarc3]

I was just thinking the same thing. I wanted a smaller camera for travel, but will just use my ZV1.

[@a_gg]

Why?

[@albedo0point39]

Silent Siren! Cool! How was their concert?

[@JasonVong]

amazing performers! I hope to catch them again if they ever come back to the states!

[@albedo0point39]

@@JasonVong nice! Main reason I go to Japan is for concerts; Perfume, Passepied, Twice and others! Need to try and see them too. (Oh, and I’ll have an a7cr, to stay on topic).

[@Seemenowhere]

A7C II vs A6700 pleasee

[@alfisharfi]

Still waiting for my ultimate dream camera, the A1C 💁🏻

[@JasonVong]

ME TOO

[@bradl2636]

The A7S III if you're a full frame video shooter. The EVFs on the new cameras are horribly small and Sony is still shipping those low rez units.

[@thecultofspeed]

Well, I came to help make a decision and I left without one lol. Not due to your video though! Awesome video, great comparison and specs etc.

[@fflopez]

ZV-E1 is α7CS