I’ve been using the Sony ZV-1 for a couple of years now and the Sony ZV-E10 II for about a year and I wanted to share my thoughts about which one is better, which you should buy and why I purchased both. before I get into the detail, let’s take a quick look and the keys specs side by side.
Sony ZV-1 vs Sony ZV-E10 Mark II – Key Specs Comparison
| Key Feature | Sony ZV-1 | Sony ZV-E10 Mark II |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 1 inch – 1.0-type CMOS, 20.1 MP | APS-C CMOS, 26 MP |
| Lens System | Fixed lens (24–70mm equiv, f/1.8–2.8) | Interchangeable lenses (Sony E-mount) – Kit lens 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 |
| Built-in ND Filter | Yes (3-stop ND) | No |
| Video Resolution (UK/PAL) | 4K (up to 25p) 1080p (up to 50p ) | 4K (up to 50p) 1080p (up to 120p) |
| Color Depth / Codec | 8-bit recording | 10-bit 4:2:2 (All-Intra supported) |
| Slow Motion (1080p) | Up to 50 fps | Up to 120 fps |
| Image Stabilization | Optical + electronic | Electronic Active stabilization (lens-based) |
| Audio Inputs / Outputs | 3.5mm mic input | 3.5mm mic input + headphone output |
| Battery Type | NP-BX1 | NP-FZ100 |
| Real-World Video Battery Life | ~45–75 minutes | ~120–130 minutes |
| Weight | ~294 g (with battery & card) | ~292 g (body only) |
| Best For | Vlogging, travel, beginners, run-and-gun | Cinematic video, photography, client work |
Who Each Camera Is Best For
Sony ZV-1 – Best for Travel, Vlogging, and Minimal Gear Setups
The Sony ZV-1 is the camera I reach for when I want to travel light or keep my setup as simple as possible. One of the biggest advantages is how compact it is; it genuinely fits in my pocket, which makes it perfect for trips, casual shooting days, or situations where I don’t want to draw attention with a full camera rig.
I’ve tested the ZV-1 extensively while filming on the move, and its built-in ND filters are a huge advantage in bright, sunny conditions. Being able to switch the ND on and off instantly means I can maintain proper exposure without stopping to screw filters onto a lens. This is something I really missed when using my ZV-E10 II, where I had to buy ND filters separately for my lenses.
Despite its small size, the ZV-1 still delivers excellent 4K footage, making it more than capable for YouTube videos, travel vlogs, and run-and-gun shooting where speed and convenience matter most. You can read the full Sony ZV-1 review here.
Best for:
- Travel and vacation filming
- Lightweight vlogging
- Run-and-gun shooting in bright conditions
- Creators who want high quality without extra gear
Sony ZV-E10 II – Best for Image Quality, Nature, and Cinematic Work
The Sony ZV-E10 II is the camera I use when image quality is the top priority. Thanks to its larger APS-C sensor, the footage has better dynamic range and overall image quality compared to the ZV-1, which is especially noticeable in more cinematic shots.
A great example of where this camera really shines is in nature and wildlife work. I regularly use the ZV-E10 II with my Tamron 70–300mm zoom lens to capture close-up nature videos where I physically can’t get close to the subject. That extra reach simply isn’t possible on the ZV-1. The trade-off, however, is that this setup involves carrying more kit, including lenses, filters, and accessories.
Unlike the ZV-1, the ZV-E10 II doesn’t have built-in ND filters, so I had to purchase ND filters for my lenses. While that adds a bit of complexity, the payoff is a much more flexible system that can adapt to different shooting styles and creative needs.
Best for:
- Nature and wildlife videos
- Cinematic YouTube content
- Shooters who want interchangeable lenses
- Situations where image quality matters more than portability
Why I Keep Both Cameras
After testing both cameras extensively, I’ve decided to keep both the Sony ZV-1 and the Sony ZV-E10 II. Each camera has clear pros and cons, and they complement each other perfectly. Whether I’m travelling light with the ZV-1 or shooting more deliberate, cinematic content with the ZV-E10 II, both cameras produce amazing high-quality 4K footage that I’m confident using for my YouTube videos.
Instead of trying to make one camera do everything, I use each one where it performs best, and that’s why both have earned a permanent place in my kit.
Price and Key Highlights
Sony ZV-1 II
- Ultra-compact and truly pocketable
- Built-in ND filters for bright conditions
- Excellent all-in-one vlogging camera
- Fast run-and-gun workflow
- Strong slow-motion performance
Sony ZV-E10 II (kit)
If you Could Only Buy One
You’re probably here because you can’t decide between the two. I hope the following will help you decide which best suits your requirements.
Core Takeaway: It Depends on How You Shoot
When comparing the Sony ZV-1 and the Sony ZV-E10, the most important thing to understand is that neither camera is objectively better. The right choice depends entirely on how you plan to use it. After using both cameras extensively, I’ve found that they complement each other rather than compete directly.
Vlogging: Sony ZV-1 Takes the Lead
For vlogging, the Sony ZV-1 is the easier and more practical choice for most creators.
Its wider field of view avoids the tight framing issues caused by APS-C crop, and the stabilisation feels more reliable when walking and talking. The built-in lens also means you can pull it out of your pocket and start filming immediately, no setup required.
In contrast, the ZV-E10’s kit lens often feels too tight for handheld vlogging, and upgrading to a wider lens quickly increases the cost. Active stabilisation also isn’t as confidence-inspiring when moving.
When I’m filming quick walk-and-talk clips or travel vlogs, I grab the ZV-1 because I can start recording instantly without worrying about lenses, filters, or framing.
Professional & Client Work: Sony ZV-E10
For professional or paid work, the Sony ZV-E10 is the better choice.
It matches the colour science of Sony’s larger A7-series cameras, making it ideal as a B-cam. With the right lenses, it produces images that comfortably meet professional standards. When shooting client content or structured YouTube projects, I use the ZV-E10 alongside my main camera and simply match picture profiles for consistent results.
Run-and-Gun Shooting: Sony ZV-1 for Speed
In fast-paced, unpredictable shooting situations, the ZV-1 shines. Its built-in lens and built-in ND filter allow for a much faster workflow. You don’t need to stop and add filters or swap lenses when lighting changes, which is crucial when things move quickly. When filming outdoors in changing light conditions, I rely on the ZV-1’s ND filter to maintain proper exposure without interrupting the shoot.
Photography: Flexibility vs Convenience
General Photography
For photography overall, the ZV-E10 has the advantage thanks to its interchangeable lens system and larger image sensor, allowing you to adapt to different creative needs.
Nature Photography
For nature and wildlife work, the ZV-E10 is the clear winner. Telephoto lenses combined with the APS-C crop factor give you impressive reach.
Example:
Using a telephoto zoom, I’ve captured close-up nature footage and even completed an entire nature-focused project with the ZV-E10 — something that simply isn’t possible with the ZV-1’s fixed lens.
Product Photography Comparison
Sony ZV-1 still image – Unedited
Sony ZV-E10 II still image – Unedited
Hobbyists & Casual Use: Sony ZV-1
For hobbyists, families, and casual creators, the Sony ZV-1 is the more enjoyable camera to live with.
It’s compact, durable, and easy to carry, making it ideal for family events, travel, and everyday filming. You don’t need to pack extra accessories to get great results. When filming vacations or family moments, I bring the ZV-1 because it keeps things simple while still delivering excellent 4K footage.
Cinematic Footage: Sony ZV-E10
If cinematic image quality is your goal, the Sony ZV-E10 pulls ahead. The larger APSC sensor delivers better dynamic range and overall image quality, especially when paired with quality lenses. The kit lens is usable, but upgrading makes a noticeable difference. When I want more depth, richer colours, and a cinematic look for YouTube videos, I switch to the ZV-E10 with a higher-quality lens.
Slow Motion: Sony ZV-1
For slow motion on a reasonable budget, the ZV-1 is the better choice.
Its High Frame Rate (HFR) modes can produce impressive results, as long as you have adequate lighting. I’ve captured some surprisingly cinematic slow-motion shots with the ZV-1 in well-lit environments, without needing an expensive high-speed cinema camera.
Lens Flexibility: ZV-E10 vs ZV-1
The ZV-E10 offers true creative flexibility through interchangeable lenses, making it ideal for photographers and videographers who want maximum control over their image.
The ZV-1, while convenient, is limited by its fixed lens. Add-on lenses may change framing, but they don’t significantly improve image quality.
Sony ZV-1 Short Film – Sedella, Spain
Beginners: Sony ZV-1
For beginners, the Sony ZV-1 is an excellent starting point. This is a natural starting point for any videographer. It’s where I learnt fundamentals like composition and lighting, while still delivering high-quality results. It’s a camera you can grow with without being overwhelmed.
Final Personal Recommendation
After extensive use, I’ve chosen to keep both cameras because each excels in different scenarios:
- Sony ZV-1 → Vlogging, travel, casual shooting, slow motion
- Sony ZV-E10 → Cinematic footage, photography, client work, B-cam use
Instead of forcing one camera to do everything, using each where it performs best has given me the most consistent and high-quality results.