Sony ZV-1F Camera Review: The Ultimate Vlogging Camera

In this blog post, we're going to explore the Sony ZV-1F camera, which is a popular vlogging camera that offers amazing features. We'll take a deep dive into its key specifications, pros, and cons, and discover why it is a must-have for any aspiring vlogger.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Sony ZV-1F article cover photo

Key Features

Oct 13 2022

Announced

20 megapixels

Resolution

BrandSony
Sensor Type1″
SensorBSI-CMOS
Weight256g
MSRP$500USD

Other similar cameras

Sony ZV-1 thumbnail

Sony ZV-1

Released May 27 2020 | 20MP resolution

Sony ZV-E10 thumbnail

Sony ZV-E10

Released Jul 30 2021 | 24MP resolution

Sony Alpha a6400 thumbnail

Sony Alpha a6400

Released Jan 15 2019 | 24MP resolution

Overview of the ZV-1F

If you're looking for a camera that can help take your vlogging to the next level, then the Sony ZV-1F might be just what you need. This powerful camera is designed specifically for vloggers, and it comes packed with amazing features that will help you create high-quality content. From its advanced autofocus technology to its front-facing microphone, the Sony ZV-1F ticks all the boxes for the perfect vlogging camera. So, let's dive a little deeper into this fantastic camera and discover why it's the ultimate choice for vloggers.

The Sony Alpha Series Lineup

Sony ZV-1 thumbnail

Sony ZV-1

Released May 27 2020 | 20MP resolution

Sony ZV-1F thumbnail

Sony ZV-1F

Released Oct 13 2022 | 20MP resolution

Sony ZV-E10 thumbnail

Sony ZV-E10

Released Jul 30 2021 | 24MP resolution

Sony ZV-1F Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Sony ZV-1F camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

High-quality video recording
Compact and portable design
Multiple shooting modes (4K, Slow Motion, Time-lapse)
Fast autofocus technology
Built-in mic with noise reduction technology
Vari-angle LCD screen for easy vlogging
Good low light performance
Face tracking and eye autofocus features

Cons

No headphone jack available
Limited zoom range
Only one SD card slot
Non-interchangeable lens
No internal image stabilization
Limited battery life
High price point compared to similar cameras
Limited manual control options

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Sony ZV-1F

Weather sealed
Dimensions106 x 60 x 46mm
Weight256g
Thickness46mm
Weight
Min
Avg
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Max
Thickness
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Weather Sealing

The Sony ZV-1F is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderNone
Screen TypeFully Articulated
Screen Resolution922k dots
Body typeLarge sensor compact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fully articulated 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 922k dots. This makes the Sony ZV-1F very suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you can view yourself while shooting selfies. The camera also features a touch screen, which adds to its ease of use.

Viewfinder

Sony ZV-1F does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the ZV-1F camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Sony ZV-1F has a 20MP sized BSI-CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 20 pixels. Sony ZV-1F has a native ISO range of 125 - 12800 which can be boosted to 80 - 25600.

Key Features

Oct 13 2022

Announced

125 - 12800

ISO Range

Sensor1″
Extended ISO80 - 25600
Max resolution5472 x 3648 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Sony ZV-1F camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the ZV-1F is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1″

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo
Battery Life360 shots
Battery ModelNP-BX1
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Sony ZV-1F supports SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Sony ZV-1F uses the NP-BX1 model of battery pack. This is rated for 360 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Sony ZV-1F does not have a built-in flash, but it does offer a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Sony ZV-1F boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Sony ZV-1F includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 425 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Sony ZV-1F?

The Sony ZV-1F features a BSI-CMOS sensor

Is the Sony ZV-1F weather sealed?

No the ZV-1F does not have weather sealing.

When was the Sony ZV-1F announced?

The Sony ZV-1F was announced on Oct 13 2022

Does the Sony ZV-1F have in-body image stabilization?

No the ZV-1F does not have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Sony ZV-1F?

The ZV-1F has a native ISO range of 125-12800, which can be expanded to ISO 80-25600 for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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