You Probably Shouldn't Buy The Sony ZV-1 Mark II - Here's Why

[@JackWoodhams]

Re-upload, because I felt my explanation about the aperture, was a bit confusing for new camera people! What are your thoughts on the Sony ZV1 - Mark II ? Upgrade? Downgrade?

[@marcodimartino2810]

Downgrade. I purchased a ZV1 in February for 400€ on the second hand market and when I saw the announcement I thought I had to resell it. When I saw that f4.0 I thought I was a genius.

[@JackWoodhams]

@@marcodimartino2810 😂😂😂

[@wio2189]

You didn't even have to mention them dropping the 480p feature to destroy this release. Best thing about the ZV1II is that the ZV1 got discounted. Got mine for $430.

[@AllThingsFilm1]

I'm getting the ZV-1 as a b-cam/b-roll cam to go with my FX30. I found a used one in excellent condition for $500. Having had it before, I know I can get really good video quality out of it. And I don't vlog that much so the lens is wide enough for my uses.

[@JackWoodhams]

Good stuff! Enjoy 🤗

[@yoogeebearproductions]

Great video. You missed the fact that if you get a wide angle lens Like the Gizmon or Neewer for the MK1. This gives an extra benefit with the extension tube. You can add extra ND, and stick to the 180 degree rule. The internal ND in both cameras doesn't cut it on its own. Add a Smallrig half cage, sorts the battery door / mount issue on the MK1 plus gives a bigger grip. The new directional mic is a bit of a gimmick, if your going to record semi decent sound you'll go for a external option or a wireless plugin system. I think Sony could have easily have given the MK1 the software upgrade as the processor and internals are the same as the MK1. However they chose not to, just like their other cameras that they a failing to support- A1, A7sMK3 to name a few.

[@NegyedMisi]

It definitely sounds like NOT worth the upgrade. I would ditch microUSB but to be honest, I use my ZV-1 so little - especially now having a Galaxy S23+ - that I am even thinking about selling it. Making a 18mm lens but sacrificing the aperture was a stupid move.

[@BlackBeltBarrister]

Thanks, just confirmed many of my concerns about this and I'll probably end up lugging my A7sIII around with an ND filter!

[@hasepase]

which camera do you recommend for the purpose which this camera is build then? just the zv-1?

[@JackWoodhams]

@@hasepase pretty much!

[@Tech4YourNeeds]

I don't have the device but from what I'm hearing I agree with you.

[@UltimateByte]

In short: ZV1-Mark II has: Offset battery/SD card (for easy access while mounted on tripod); USB-C; 18-50mm with lower aperture; better embeded 3 mics; no optical stabilization; full touch screen ZV1 has: Poor battery/SD card placement for access with a tripod; Micro USB; More zoom at 24-70mm with greater aperture; basic mic; optical stabilization; very limited touchscreen (focus only) I do believe these change to the Mark II don't justify the significant price increase. However despite its downsides, the Mark II will likely suit the purpose of this device (be a simple and quick device to use for vlog) better in most cases. I think it's a shame that Sony makes you pay more for resolving issues that they created in the first place while adding other new issues. In order to justify the new pricing, the Mark II should have kept a better aperture, keept optical stab, and possibly added other improvements such as 4K 50-60FPS and or better battery life. Because right now it seems like "look, we fixed what you disliked about our previous product while removing nice features, and by the way, now it's +40% pricing".

[@larryryan6003]

I was looking for a camera for both video and stills and researched both cameras. I didn't think the Mark II was worth the extra cost for minimal gains. I was able to purchase a used (in pristine condition) first generation on EBay, complete with a brand new, still in the wrapper, Ulanzi WL-1 wide angle lens for $400.

[@JackWoodhams]

Great buy!

[@larryryan6003]

@@JackWoodhams I thought so. It also came with a charger and 2 extra batteries.

[@chii270]

Great video! Just curious, in what kind of vlogging situation do you usually use 70mm or longer focal length? Thanks!

[@JackWoodhams]

Not when filming yourself but if you want to film broll or where you are 70mm is really useful (and sometimes not even enough)

[@ratnaragupathy]

your are absolutely right. i will wait .

[@hamradioop5777]

Thank you sincerely Jack for saving me from misery. It looks like the ZV1 MkI is a considerably better choice, but I already feel that I have something superior anyway, so I won't be buying that either.

[@maxtwinturtle830]

My zv1m2 works fine with me. No complaints.

[@dwj7964]

Thanks for your info. I still ZV-E10 / a6400 or think about Alice Camera with AI

[@JackWoodhams]

I'd love to try the Alice camera!

[@nilanshgaur]

Absolutely right. Just got myself a ZV1(mark i) last week, after the specs on mark ii came out. Its really a downgrade. Shocking.

[@JackWoodhams]

Glad I'm not the only one who thinks so 😂

[@davidpoo66]

Do all batteries suck on the new cameras? Sorry but most of your footage seemed o er exposed. Thanks for showing this camera, i was considering it. If you think it's normal exposure good for you.

[@JackWoodhams]

Overexposed? What footage? There's not a single clip of my own in this video it's Sony's promo video. If you are having issues with videos looking overexposed maybe your monitor needs calibrating.

[@davidpoo66]

@@JackWoodhams The video of you walking 🚶‍♀️ the 🐕.

[@JackWoodhams]

@@davidpoo66 Where?

[@bradl2636]

You don’t need 10-bit for KZbin or Instagram style content.

[@JackWoodhams]

Actually it's pretty useful if you colour grade a lot and I'd disagree for KZbin. As it does allow high bitrate video. Probably don't need it for IG though

[@bradl2636]

@@JackWoodhams Total overkill IMHO time is better invested in content rather than the 1% polish that fancy bitrate provides.

[@eijoao]

hi, do what do you think about powershot v10 canon ?

[@pkerry12]

Which should I get the zv-e10 or the zv1 mark 2?

[@JackWoodhams]

I can't make the decision for you. Ask yourself wat features do I need? And go from there..

[@davidpoo66]

Theres another Utube channel of the Mark 2; the quality wasn't good in my opinion (overexposed). I decided not to get it, bope you give another review on a new model😊. Thx

[@joshmoxey.]

First reaction, downgrade. The 70mm F2.8 alone has been TOO clutch for me... can't even imagine being at a max of 50mm F4.

[@JackWoodhams]

70mm was super useful. I have no idea why they thought 18-50 would be a suitable choice on a lens you can never change. And F/4... yeah. sucks.

[@EDG]

Hi, does this still have a 5 min. max 4k clip record limit like the Mark 1?

[@AirsoftRealSteelBoxing]

I read the limit is not a thing if you're using a sandisk extreme pro

[@greggh]

"Now the aperture will change incrementally as you zoom in. So for example, when you're at 35 mm it may be F2.8..." 5:32 - This lens is worse than you thought. Once you hit 35 mm the aperture hits the maximum F4 and stays there all the way to 50 mm.

[@JackWoodhams]

Oh NO! That is dreadful!

[@eijoao]

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THIS LENS

[@junhaophua106]

What a disappointment. :( The big downside for me is Sony "cleverly" removed the optical stabilization and we can't even use the Sony digital microphone?! What the h.... Sony?!! With the sophistication of phone cameras, I don't understand why anyone would pay like what, more than $800 on a "vlog camera". I have seen several video comparisons of iphone with all these Sony/Canon compact cameras. When uploaded on a platform like KZbin, no one cares or can tell which equipment you use. If anyone wants higher quality videos, they would be looking at full frame mirrorless or dedicated video cameras anyway. I feel that the rapid advancement of phone camera technology has almost killed the motivation of big camera manufacturers to produce better cameras these days. So what now... Do we have to wait another 1.5 to 2 years before Sony announces the Z-V1 Mark III with optical stabilization again? Price: $1000???

[@fibbermcghee23]

Hello can you tell me which camera works best for my actor self tapes at home?

[@JackWoodhams]

Zv1 would be plenty good enough! Although there's a great deal right now for prime day on the ZV1-F: amzn.to/43ntcor

[@shajiibrahim4291]

I am planning to buy one to use as point & shoot camera and confused. Which one is better ZV-1 ZV- 1 M2 ZV-E10

[@JackWoodhams]

You need to factor in what you need. More lens versatility and low light performance, but bigger: zve10 Better wide angle and live streaming capabilities, but f4 aperture at 50mm: zv1 M2 Great all rounder with 70mm max focal length, but limited to 24mm wide angle: zv1

[@shajiibrahim4291]

@@JackWoodhams Can you suggest one among these and for long term use for personal purposes. 🙏

[@JackWoodhams]

@@shajiibrahim4291 personally either the original zv1 (amzn.to/45MfQob) or the Zv-E10 (amzn.to/42kvdkH) feel free to use my affiliate links 👍

[@bradl2636]

@@JackWoodhamsDoes the original ZV-1 have Sony’s “old” or “new” menu system?

[@artistjoh]

Due to price and Slo-Mo, the ZV-1 with a Ulanzi Wide conversion lens is a much better choice than the Mark 2 version. HOWEVER, the ZV-E10 is a better choice than either of them.

[@JackWoodhams]

You know what, I used to hate the idea of the ZV-E10 but because Sony has basically nerfed the ZV (original) line then I'm kind of inclined to agree.

[@artistjoh]

@@JackWoodhams Yes, the ZV-E10 is kind of the sweet spot between the limitations of the ZV-1 series and the high price and too-large size (with lenses) of the ZV-E1.

[@spirittravels.]

Or is the Nikon z30 a better choice?

[@JackWoodhams]

@@spirittravels. Totally depends on what you need

[@spirittravels.]

@@JackWoodhams Z30 is a direct competitor to the zve10. It appears to be a far better deal with kit lens.

[@KhalidX2pher]

Why is Sony doing this? perhaps to give way for Xperia 1 V? I don't know. The F.4 is so uninspiring. I would like to get the ZV1 but the micro usb is just slow. Can Sony produce a satisfactory point and shoot camera to their users? I don't know. There's always a catch for everything. money money money. Business as usual. lol.

[@JackWoodhams]

Dont forget it's still F/1.8 at the widest. It just gradually reaches F/4 as you zoom to 50mm. I guess the appeal of this camera depends on how you want to use it. Mostly wide? Probably ok. Mostly zoomed? Expect to bump the ISO and lose picture quality.

[@eijoao]

can i use Sony ZV1 Wide Angle Lens on my ZV-1 ?

[@JackWoodhams]

The zv1 wide angle lens is for the zv1 so... Yes

[@crwhhx]

But it has USB-C! Micro USB turns me off....

[@JackWoodhams]

That doesn't make it a better camera.

[@crwhhx]

@@JackWoodhams right, but it does make it a camera with less irritating port

[@arfmf]

There's much more nuance. If all one care is to point a camera to itself and talk the better mic (front direction pattern voice isolation) and the fact that the mic will be closer due to 18mm (no stable) will make it better than the M1 (if one likes the face look at 18mm), also all the benefits from USB-C including a it being a great 720P webcam and its mic and lens will be better than any notebook camera and most webcams even 4k ones with tiny sensors and nowhere near as good AF/AWB (when they have it). If you need 18mm at all in your pocket there's no argument the M2 is better, those UW adapter are clumsy and kill the pocket appeal. The new menu is a nice to have too. I myself much prefer the f2.8 max minimal aperture of the M1 and I agree you can get greater separation with 70mm and the extra f-stop, but if audio is important well... you're now recording external/wireless audio and that kills the simplicity factor even with the best shotgun in-camera mic (that would be ridiculous rigged on a ZV1 btw) at 70mm the audio will be crap, considering you're talking to the camera. If on the other hand you shoot what you see and not yourself the M1 will be much better. As Gerald Undone pointed out the lack of OSS makes the camera feed blurrier images to the digital stabilization algorithm and this will be even worse due to the higher minimum aperture you'll need to crank the iso even higher to keep that shutter high enough to have a clear image. It's a fact if you want nice digital stabilization you need to forgo the 180 degree rule as it will (without IBIS) result in a blurry mess at low frame rates as 30 or less (1/60s or less). Also if HFR is important to you the M1 is the only option. I think they took out those modes away in part because people would be very frustrated with the results at f4. You said Sony made crazy zooms before but look at the aperture it was far worse. The lens is physics, in this tiny body there's no way they would have been able to fit a 18-50 f1.8-2.8, they removed OSS and even doing so it needed to be f4 from 34mm to 50mm. The elements are significant wider to project the 18mm FOV in the sensor OSS died right there. I think the future will be sensor stabilization and no lens OSS as Sony is already doing. What non telephoto lens did they release with OSS recently? None.

[@JackWoodhams]

Personally I don't think using a camera as a webcam is a big selling point especially when it's capped at 720p. Have you used a zv1? Recording audio at 70mm doesn't mean someone is super far away. And if that's the case you would and should always use a better microphone. The f4 aperture is a huge mistep imo and I don't see how the mark II besides the 18mm wider fov is any improvement all

[@arfmf]

@@JackWoodhams Think about the casual user, the one that do not want an interchangeable lens camera, that would actually use the camera on auto with those sliders "cool - warm", "bright - darker", it may be the same guy that get complains because of his poor mic and camera on zoom calls, especially the mic. I think in absolute numbers this use case is way bigger than the number of people excited about HFR video also @720p 960FPS. No I have not used a ZV1@70mm but I've used far better cameras @70mm with far better shotgun mics on camera and the audio from even an expensive sennheiser mic would be far worse than a budget lavalier mic at this focal length. I also don't think it's an improvement I tend to film much more what I see than myself my favorite focal distance is 28-40mm (35mm eq) and that's in the ballpark where the original ZV1 would excel with active stabilization. M2 would be @f2.8 at 24mm while the M1 would be at F1.8. The thing is I don't care much about the 18mm... but the guy who will put the camera on a table at a coffee shop and talk to it will be able to do it closer and will get better audio and at the same time catch less attention because the camera is closer and also he/she may speak quieter in comparison and that's a win for "candid vlogging". If he wants to walk and talk in good light it will work better also. So the 18mm can be a big deal depending on the audience. If you ask me the true best spec for a Vlog centric camera would be both even wider and even shorter. Give me a new sensor with only 12MP for better low light with sensor stabilization and a non stabilized 16-35 lens... make it F1.8-2.8. Thanks that's an end game Vlogging camera.

[@susanwojcicki5714]

u type way too much

[@katsayshii]

You forget the fact that a lot of aspiring content creators are still new to cameras and doesn't have profound knowledge, specially with the post-prod like you mentioned with the cinematic bar stuff, honestly, it's such a great thing for me that Sony was able to cater those needs for beginners like me. Don't be selfish, creators like you or who are in the similar business for quite a while like vloggers, photo/videographers are familiar already with these stuffs or have a team already working for them, so why don't you just stick with more advanced cameras, rather than thinking that all of the cameras released by manufacturers are geared towards people like you. SELFISH

[@JackWoodhams]

Not selfish at all, adding black bars takes 2 seconds to learn and add in a video editor. My point is that Sony has wrapped this up like a feature but it brings nothing particularly exciting to a camera. In fact your point about new camera users makes my points about the zv1 -2 even more valid because the camera has gotten more complicated and dropped essential features that made the zv1 so user friendly.

[@texascarryacademy]

You missed the purpose of the ZV 2 all together and compared it with things it should.t be...18 - 50 is perfect for vlogging....

[@JackWoodhams]

Nah mate you've missed the point of the criticisms. Just because it's got a wider lens doesn't make it a better camera for vlogging and as mentioned if you need stabilisation it's 23mm anyway 😂

[@lubosbarta8064]

Hmm.. Okay.. I wanted to get zve10 and then saw your video.. Okay, so then it will be zv1 m2.. Then.. Okay.. I stick to my oneplus nord2, i guess

[@user-jm9ep3zp5g]

totally agree !

[@paulmaher1705]

What 4K60 vlogging camera options are there in this price bracket though?

[@JackWoodhams]

None!

[@sarahcrash6396]

I have bought it.😅

[@JackWoodhams]

If you're OK with its limitations then that's OK

[@WolfsHaven]

The original ZV-1 was amazing, not perfect but the features in a compact point and shoot and the price, was awesome. Then the ZV-E 10 came out, it wasn't the ZV-1 with interchangeable lenses, they started taking away features. Then the F came out, it was a significantly worse camera but it was a little cheaper. For some people I get that they really want the wide field of view but its not that much wider. The Mark 2 would be a decent entry level camera except that they take so much away from the original then raise the price significantly. If they had just taken the original camera, fixed the tripod mount, and upgraded the micro usb to c. It would have been an improvement. As for the lens, I wasted money on a couple adapters that made the camera worse. By using a selfie stick which most of the walk around vlogers use anyway, you fixed that problem. Seriously a couple inches further away is all you need. None the less, give the people the 18mm lens, keep the IBIS and all other features, and increase the telephoto optics from 3x to 5x. Now you have a camera worth the price increase. Id buy it eventhough I'd prefer the original 24mm with 5x optics or more. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is 24mm with 40x optical zoom making it 24-960mm. Why is it suddenly impossible to get good optics for a reasonable price? Instead they took away IBIS, made the focal length and aperture worse, took away the super slowmo and other unique features, and then made it more expensive. It makes no sense what so ever. We had a versitile, near cinema quality compact camera, with a couple flaws in the ZV-1. With every iteration since they keep making it worse.

[@JackWoodhams]

Great feedback! Hope Sony see this!

[@JeffBourke]

ZV2 is a lot of hype. Like a LOT.