Sony ZV-1 II vs ZV-1 | Which one is better?
Sony ZV-1 II vs ZV-1 – Which One Is Better?
The Sony ZV-1 II and Sony ZV-1 are two of Sonyβs most popular compact vlogging cameras β both built for creators who want professional-looking content in a small, easy-to-use package.
At first glance, they look nearly identical β same body, same 1-inch 20MP sensor, and same fully articulating screen. But under the hood, the ZV-1 II brings several meaningful upgrades aimed at making vlogging easier, wider, and smoother.
So, is the ZV-1 II worth the upgrade? Letβs find out.
βοΈ Overview – The Vlogging Evolution
Sony ZV-1:
A compact 4K vlogging camera that started Sonyβs ZV line. It features a bright 24β70mm f/1.8β2.8 lens, fast autofocus, and a built-in directional mic. It quickly became a favorite among YouTubers for its mix of portability and image quality.
Sony ZV-1 II:
The second-generation model keeps everything great about the original but improves usability β with a wider 18β50mm lens, USB-C charging, touch menus, and better stabilization and audio options. Itβs more beginner-friendly and designed for smoother vlogging experiences.
In short:
-
ZV-1 = Original compact vlogging powerhouse.
-
ZV-1 II = Wider, smarter, and easier to use.
πΈ Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Sony ZV-1 | Sony ZV-1 II |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | May 2020 | May 2023 |
| Camera Type | Compact (Vlogging) | Compact (Vlogging) |
| Sensor Type | 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS (Stacked) | 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS (Stacked) |
| Resolution | 20.1 MP | 20.1 MP |
| Image Processor | BIONZ X | BIONZ X |
| Lens (35mm equivalent) | 24β70mm f/1.8β2.8 | 18β50mm f/1.8β4 |
| Optical Zoom Range | 2.9x | 2.8x |
| Aperture Range | f/1.8β2.8 | f/1.8β4.0 |
| In-Body Stabilization | Optical + Electronic (Active Mode) | Optical + Electronic (Improved Active Mode) |
| Autofocus System | 315 Phase-Detect + 425 Contrast Points | 315 Phase-Detect + 425 Contrast Points |
| Real-Time Eye AF / Tracking | β Yes (Humans & Animals) | β Yes (Humans & Animals) |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 24 fps | 24 fps |
| Video Recording | 4K 30p / Full HD 120p | 4K 30p / Full HD 120p |
| Bit Depth / Color | 8-bit 4:2:0 | 8-bit 4:2:0 |
| Color Profiles | S-Log2, S-Log3, HLG | S-Log2, S-Log3, HLG |
| Recording Limit | 29 minutes | β Unlimited |
| Microphone Input | β 3.5mm | β 3.5mm |
| Headphone Output | β No | β No |
| Built-in Microphone | Directional 3-Capsule | Directional 3-Capsule (Improved) |
| Product Showcase Mode | β Yes | β Yes |
| Background Defocus Button | β Yes | β Yes |
| Touchscreen | Limited (focus only) | β Full Touch Menu + Focus Control |
| Screen Type | 3.0β Fully Articulating LCD | 3.0β Fully Articulating LCD |
| Viewfinder | β No | β No |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Micro USB | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C |
| Battery Type | NP-BX1 | NP-BX1 |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | ~260 shots | ~290 shots |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 105 x 60 x 44 mm | 106 x 60 x 46 mm |
| Weight (Body Only) | 294 g | 292 g |
| Price (Body Only) | ~$749 | ~$899 (check on Amazon) |
𧱠Build and Handling
Both cameras share the same compact design, lightweight body, and fully articulating touchscreen β perfect for handheld vlogging.
The ZV-1 II feels identical in hand but makes small ergonomic improvements: a USB-C port instead of Micro USB, more intuitive menus, and a wider lens that makes self-recording easier without needing a selfie stick.
π Verdict:
-
ZV-1: Solid, proven vlogging design.
-
ZV-1 II: Same form factor but with modern upgrades for usability.
π― Autofocus and Performance
Autofocus performance is nearly identical β both cameras use Sonyβs Real-Time Eye AF and subject tracking, which are fast, accurate, and reliable.
However, the ZV-1 II benefits from smoother focus transitions and slightly improved face tracking during movement β helpful for vloggers on the go.
π Verdict:
-
ZV-1: Still excellent autofocus.
-
ZV-1 II: Slightly improved tracking and smoothness for video.
π₯ Video Capabilities
Both the ZV-1 and ZV-1 II shoot 4K 30p and 1080p 120p with similar image quality.
The key differences are usability and framing:
-
The ZV-1 IIβs wider 18mm lens is far more practical for handheld vlogging and group shots.
-
The ZV-1 offers a faster aperture (f/1.8β2.8) for better low-light performance and background blur.
The ZV-1 II also adds:
-
Unlimited recording time
-
Better audio (improved 3-capsule mic)
-
Touch menu navigation
π Verdict:
-
ZV-1: Brighter lens, better bokeh.
-
ZV-1 II: Wider, more flexible, and easier for vlogging.
π§ Image Quality
Both cameras use the same 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor, delivering sharp, detailed images and great color.
The ZV-1 produces slightly shallower depth of field due to its brighter lens (f/1.8β2.8), while the ZV-1 II maintains similar image quality but sacrifices a bit of low-light capability for wider framing.
π Verdict:
-
ZV-1: Better for low light and portraits.
-
ZV-1 II: Better for vlogs, landscapes, and wide compositions.
π Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life is nearly identical β both use the NP-BX1, good for around 260β290 shots.
However, the ZV-1 IIβs USB-C port makes charging and data transfer much more convenient for creators.
π Verdict:
-
ZV-1: Slightly older Micro USB connection.
-
ZV-1 II: Modern USB-C charging and better workflow.
π° Price and Value
| Model | Approx. Price | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Sony ZV-1 | ~$749 | Beginners, vloggers, social media creators |
| Sony ZV-1 II | ~$899 | YouTubers, travel vloggers, hybrid creators |
_
Both cameras are priced for creators, but the ZV-1 II justifies its higher price with real quality-of-life improvements like the wider lens, USB-C, and touch menus.
π Verdict:
-
ZV-1: Better budget choice with great quality.
-
ZV-1 II: Worth the extra for a more modern experience.
Check availability and price on Amazon π
π· Sony ZV-1 II β Amazon USA / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK / Amazon Australia
π· Sony ZV-1 β Amazon USA / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK / Amazon Australia
Note: camerafight.com participates in the Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
π Final Verdict β Sony ZV-1 II vs ZV-1
| Type of User | Recommended Camera |
|---|---|
| Beginner Vlogger | ZV-1 |
| YouTuber / Content Creator | ZV-1 II |
| Travel Creator | ZV-1 II |
| Portrait Creator / Low-Light User | ZV-1 |
| Studio / Streamer | ZV-1 II |
| Budget Buyer | ZV-1 |
| Hybrid / Advanced Creator | ZV-1 II |
_
β In short:
Choose the Sony ZV-1 if youβre on a budget and want great image quality in a compact, all-in-one vlogging camera.
Choose the Sony ZV-1 II if you want a wider lens, touch menu, USB-C, and unlimited recording β a better overall experience for modern content creation.
π§ Final Thoughts
The ZV-1 remains an amazing camera for beginners and budget-conscious vloggers β it delivers professional results in a truly compact body.
The ZV-1 II refines that formula with wider framing, better usability, and improved audio, making it the best choice for creators who film themselves regularly or want a smoother workflow.
If youβre starting out, the ZV-1 is still an excellent deal.
If youβre upgrading or planning to vlog seriously, the ZV-1 II is the smarter, more future-ready option.
