Sony ZV-1 vs ZV-1F – Which one is better?
Sony ZV-1 vs ZV-1F – Which One Is Better?
The Sony ZV-1 and Sony ZV-1F are two of Sony’s compact vlogging cameras designed for creators who want high-quality video without the complexity of interchangeable lenses.
While both share the same 1-inch 20MP sensor and creator-focused design, they serve different audiences. The ZV-1 targets serious vloggers who want more control, while the ZV-1F focuses on simplicity and affordability — perfect for beginners and social media creators.
So which one is right for you? Let’s find out.
⚙️ Overview – Creator Classic vs Affordable Simplicity
Sony ZV-1:
The original ZV model that started Sony’s creator lineup. It features a bright 24–70mm zoom lens, fast autofocus, S-Log color profiles, and great stabilization — ideal for vloggers who want pro-level results in a compact body.
Sony ZV-1F:
A simplified, budget-friendly version with a fixed 20mm wide-angle lens. It’s smaller, lighter, and easier to use — designed for beginners or anyone who wants to shoot great content with minimal setup.
In short:
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ZV-1 = More advanced features and zoom flexibility.
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ZV-1F = Simpler, lighter, and cheaper for entry-level creators.
📸 Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Sony ZV-1 | Sony ZV-1F |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | May 2020 | October 2022 |
| Camera Type | Compact (Vlogging) | Compact (Vlogging) |
| Sensor Type | 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS (Stacked) | 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS |
| Resolution | 20.1 MP | 20.1 MP |
| Image Processor | BIONZ X | BIONZ X |
| Lens (35mm Equivalent) | 24–70mm f/1.8–2.8 (Zoom) | 20mm f/2.0 (Fixed) |
| Optical Zoom | ✅ 2.9x | ❌ Fixed Lens |
| Digital Zoom | Up to 4x | Up to 4x |
| Aperture Range | f/1.8–2.8 | f/2.0 (Fixed) |
| In-Body Stabilization | Optical + Electronic (Active Mode) | Electronic Only (Active Mode) |
| Autofocus System | 315 Phase-Detect + 425 Contrast Points | Contrast-Detect Only |
| Eye AF / Real-Time Tracking | ✅ Yes (Humans & Animals) | ✅ Yes (Humans & Animals) |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 24 fps | 5 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 | None (Creative Looks only) |
| Recording Limit | 29 minutes | ✅ Unlimited |
| Microphone Input | ✅ 3.5mm | ✅ 3.5mm |
| Headphone Output | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Built-in Microphone | Directional 3-Capsule | Directional 3-Capsule |
| Product Showcase Mode | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Background Defocus Button | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Touchscreen | Focus Only | Full Touch Control |
| Screen Type | 3.0” Fully Articulating LCD | 3.0” Fully Articulating LCD |
| 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 | 256 g |
| Price (Body Only) | ~$749 | ~$499 |
🧱 Build and Handling
Both cameras are extremely compact and easy to carry — perfect for handheld vlogging or travel.
The ZV-1 feels more premium, with a slightly larger grip and zoom control that adds flexibility for different scenes. The ZV-1F, on the other hand, is lighter and simpler, with fewer buttons and a cleaner interface.
The ZV-1F’s fixed 20mm lens is wider, which makes it better for self-recording and group shots without needing an accessory grip.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Feels more professional with more control.
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ZV-1F: Simpler and lighter for casual creators.
🎯 Autofocus and Performance
Here’s where the difference is most noticeable:
The ZV-1 uses phase-detection autofocus, one of the best systems in any compact camera — fast, accurate, and smooth for both stills and video.
The ZV-1F only uses contrast-detection AF, which is slower and less reliable in low light or moving scenes.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Faster and more precise AF — great for serious vloggers.
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ZV-1F: Adequate for casual use, but not for action or movement.
🎥 Video Capabilities
Both shoot beautiful 4K video, but the ZV-1 offers more control and flexibility for advanced users.
Sony ZV-1
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4K 30p / Full HD 120p
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Brighter f/1.8–2.8 zoom lens
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Optical + electronic stabilization
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S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG profiles for color grading
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29-minute limit (manageable for short vlogs)
Sony ZV-1F
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4K 30p / Full HD 120p
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Fixed f/2.0 wide lens (20mm)
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Electronic stabilization only
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No Log profiles (only Creative Looks)
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Unlimited recording
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Better video flexibility and color grading options.
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ZV-1F: Easier and lighter for quick vlogs.
🧠 Image Quality
Both share the same 20.1 MP 1-inch sensor, delivering sharp, colorful images and good low-light performance.
However, the ZV-1’s faster f/1.8 lens gives it an edge in low light and produces smoother background blur. The ZV-1F’s fixed f/2.0 lens still performs well but offers less separation between subject and background.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Better in low light and for bokeh.
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ZV-1F: Great for wide framing and outdoor vlogs.
🔋 Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life is nearly identical, though the ZV-1F benefits from modern USB-C charging versus the older Micro USB on the ZV-1.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1: Older port but still reliable.
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ZV-1F: Newer USB-C connection and same endurance.
💰 Price and Value
| Model | Approx. Price | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Sony ZV-1 | ~$749 | Intermediate vloggers, hybrid creators |
| Sony ZV-1F | ~$499 | Beginners, social media content creators |
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The ZV-1F offers great value for beginners who just want to create — it’s half the price and super easy to use.
The ZV-1, while more expensive, offers faster autofocus, better lens flexibility, and pro video profiles — ideal for creators looking to grow their skills.
👉 Verdict:
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ZV-1F: Best for beginners and casual vloggers.
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ZV-1: Best for advanced creators who need more control.
🏁 Final Verdict – Sony ZV-1 vs ZV-1F
| Type of User | Recommended Camera |
|---|---|
| Beginner Vlogger | ZV-1F |
| YouTuber / Advanced Creator | ZV-1 |
| Travel Creator | ZV-1F |
| Hybrid Photo + Video User | ZV-1 |
| Social Media Influencer | ZV-1F |
| Budget Buyer | ZV-1F |
| Professional Content Creator | ZV-1 |
_
✅ In short:
Choose the Sony ZV-1F if you’re a beginner or social media creator who wants an affordable, lightweight, and easy-to-use camera that still delivers great 4K video.
Choose the Sony ZV-1 if you want better autofocus, zoom flexibility, and advanced color profiles for professional-looking videos and photos.
🛒 Check Prices on Amazon
🔗 Sony ZV-1 on Amazon
🔗 Sony ZV-1F on Amazon
(As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.)
🧠 Final Thoughts
Both the Sony ZV-1 and ZV-1F are excellent compact cameras for content creation — it all depends on your goals.
The ZV-1F is perfect for beginners and casual vloggers who want simplicity, affordability, and wide framing.
The ZV-1, meanwhile, remains the better all-rounder — with its fast zoom lens, stronger autofocus, and professional video options, it’s ideal for creators who want to take their content to the next level.
If you’re starting out, the ZV-1F gives you incredible value.
If you’re serious about content creation, the ZV-1 is still the smarter long-term investment.
