Sony ZV-1 vs ZV-1 II | Which one is better?
Sony ZV-1 vs ZV-1 II – Which One Is Better?
The Sony ZV-1 and Sony ZV-1 II are two of Sony’s most popular compact vlogging cameras — both designed for creators who want to record high-quality video without dealing with the complexity of interchangeable lenses.
While they look almost identical, the ZV-1 II brings several key upgrades aimed at improving usability, versatility, and overall vlogging performance. The question is: does it justify the higher price tag? Let’s find out.
⚙️ Overview – The Original Legend vs The Refined Successor
Sony ZV-1:
The original ZV camera that defined Sony’s vlogging lineup. It combines a 1-inch sensor with a bright 24–70mm f/1.8–2.8 lens, fast autofocus, and creator-friendly features like Product Showcase Mode. Compact, powerful, and affordable — it set the standard for portable vlogging cameras.
Sony ZV-1 II:
The upgraded version builds on everything the ZV-1 did right but adds modern improvements — a wider 18–50mm lens for better selfie framing, USB-C connectivity, unlimited recording, touch menu control, and upgraded stabilization and audio.
In short:
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ZV-1 = Bright lens, compact, and proven performer.
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ZV-1 II = Wider, smarter, and more creator-friendly.
📸 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) | 24–70mm f/1.8–2.8 | 18–50mm f/1.8–4 |
| Optical Zoom | 2.9x | 2.8x |
| Aperture Range | f/1.8–2.8 | f/1.8–4.0 |
| In-Body Stabilization (IBIS) | 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 | ✅ Yes (Humans & Animals) | ✅ 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 | ✅ Unlimited |
| Microphone Input | ✅ 3.5mm | ✅ 3.5mm |
| Headphone Output | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Built-in Microphone | Directional 3-Capsule | Directional 3-Capsule (Improved) |
| Product Showcase Mode | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Background Defocus Button | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Screen Type | 3.0” Fully Articulating LCD | 3.0” Fully Articulating LCD |
| Touchscreen Functionality | Touch Focus Only | ✅ Full Touch Menu & Focus |
| Viewfinder | ❌ No | ❌ 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) |
🧱 Build and Handling
Both cameras share nearly the same compact, pocket-sized design. The ZV-1 set the formula — light, ergonomic, and optimized for handheld use — while the ZV-1 II refined it slightly with smoother button layouts, full touch control, and USB-C.
The biggest difference is the lens. The ZV-1 II’s 18mm wide end is much better for vlogging at arm’s length — no need for a selfie stick. However, the ZV-1’s 24–70mm lens offers more reach and a brighter aperture, making it stronger for portraits or detail shots.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Brighter lens and more zoom range.
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ZV-1 II: Wider and easier for vlogging and framing yourself.
🎯 Autofocus and Performance
Both cameras feature Sony’s Real-Time Eye AF and Tracking AF, which remain among the best in the compact camera world.
In practical use, the ZV-1 II performs slightly smoother during subject transitions and face tracking thanks to updated firmware and processing optimizations.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Excellent autofocus, even for fast-paced content.
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ZV-1 II: Slightly more refined tracking for video creators.
🎥 Video Capabilities
Both cameras are made for vloggers, but the ZV-1 II delivers a better overall shooting experience.
Sony ZV-1
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4K 30p / Full HD 120p
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29-minute recording limit
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Brighter f/1.8–2.8 lens (better for low light)
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Clean HDMI output
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Optical + digital stabilization
Sony ZV-1 II
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4K 30p / Full HD 120p (no recording limit)
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Wider 18mm lens (perfect for handheld vlogs)
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Improved stabilization (Active Mode)
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Full touchscreen menu and improved mic
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USB-C port for power and transfer
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Ideal for creators who film indoors or in controlled light.
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ZV-1 II: Better for handheld, travel, and wide vlogging.
🧠 Image Quality
Both cameras share the same sensor and image processor, producing equally excellent detail, color, and dynamic range.
However, the ZV-1’s brighter lens gives it an edge in low light and background blur, while the ZV-1 II provides a wider perspective — great for travel vlogs or group shots.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Slightly better for shallow depth of field and low light.
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ZV-1 II: Better for wide-angle framing and outdoor shooting.
🔋 Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life is nearly identical, but the ZV-1 II offers USB-C charging — a small but meaningful quality-of-life improvement.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Decent battery, but older Micro USB port.
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ZV-1 II: Same endurance, modern USB-C convenience.
💰 Price and Value
| Model | Approx. Price | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Sony ZV-1 | ~$749 | Beginners, vloggers, and hybrid creators |
| Sony ZV-1 II | ~$899 | Travel vloggers, YouTubers, and social media creators |
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The ZV-1 remains a great deal — it’s compact, reliable, and delivers professional-quality results at a lower price.
The ZV-1 II, though more expensive, justifies its cost with a wider lens, modern ports, better audio, and unlimited recording — a stronger long-term choice for creators.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Best for budget-conscious vloggers.
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ZV-1 II: Best for advanced or growing creators.
Check availability and price on Amazon 🛒
📷 Sony ZV-1 II — Amazon USA / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK / Amazon Australia
📷 Sony ZV-1 — 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.
🏁 Final Verdict — Sony ZV-1 vs ZV-1 II
| Type of User | Recommended Camera |
|---|---|
| Beginner Vlogger | ZV-1 |
| YouTuber / Creator | ZV-1 II |
| Travel Vlogger | ZV-1 II |
| Portrait / Low-Light Shooter | ZV-1 |
| Studio / Streaming Setup | ZV-1 II |
| Budget Buyer | ZV-1 |
| Professional Creator | ZV-1 II |
_
✅ In short:
Choose the Sony ZV-1 if you want an affordable, compact, all-in-one camera with excellent image quality and a brighter lens.
Choose the Sony ZV-1 II if you want a wider, more versatile vlogging camera with modern connectivity, full touchscreen control, and unlimited recording.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Both the Sony ZV-1 and ZV-1 II are exceptional compact cameras that make vlogging easy and high quality.
The ZV-1 remains a top pick for budget creators and those who prioritize low-light shooting.
The ZV-1 II refines the experience with a wider lens, better usability, and smarter design choices that simplify content creation.
If you’re just starting, the ZV-1 offers unbeatable value.
If you’re upgrading or want the best all-around compact vlogging camera, the ZV-1 II is clearly the better choice.
