Whether you’re a YouTuber, streamer, videographer, or just a content creator in general, listen up for the newest camera announcement from Sony. In May of 2020, Sony released the popular ZV-1, marketed for content creators. Now, the company is releasing the latest version — the Sony ZV-1 II Compact Camera.
The ZV-1 II has all the features that we’ve come to love about the original ZV-1 with a few crucial upgrades — making it an amazing choice for content creators.
Key Features of the Sony ZV-1 II
- 4K/30fps, 1080p/120fps
- Shoots 20MP photos
- 18-50mm lens
- F/1.8 – F/4 variable aperture
- Cinematic Vlog Setting
- Product Showcase switch
- Vari-angle touchscreen
- One-inch Exmor RS sensor
- USB-C port
- Three-capsule microphone
- Real-time eye autofocus (humans and animals)
- Electronic image stabilization
What’s News About the Sony ZV-1 II?
New Focal Range
An 18-50mm lens gives creators the potential to create different kinds of content. On the wider end, you can capture the grand scene, or choose to zoom in to focus on a smaller detail. Additionally, a variable aperture of f/1.8 to f/4 will help you bring plenty of light in low light-situations, or create buttery smooth bokeh.
USB-C Port
The ZV-1 II has a USB-C port, which for streaming or to use the camera as a webcam. With streaming becoming increasingly popular, having the addition of a USB-C port only adds to the versatility of this camera. Even better yet, you can capture much higher quality webcam footage by using a dedicated camera as your webcam.
Real-Time Autofocus
Sony has equipped its ZV-1 II with real-time eye autofocus for humans and animals. This is an excellent feature for any creator who captures videos or photos with subjects. Keeping razor sharp focus on the eyes is essential.
Cinematic Vlog Setting
The camera also comes equipped with a Cinematic Vlog Setting —including options such as Clean, Mono, Chic, and Fresh — to reach your desired cinematic look. Also, the ZV-1 II’s Product Showcase function allows the camera to automatically switch from focusing on a subject’s face to an object, and back again, as needed.
Three-Capsule Microphone
It’s a game-changer to be able to capture great quality audio without having to purchase and carry additional microphones. The ZV-1 II has an included three-capsule mic with changeable directivity. This mic will provide premiere audio quality that can be adjusted based on where the noise is in relation to the camera.
Touch Operation
You can now easily operate the ZV-1 II using its vari-angle touchscreen. The performance and convenience of the touchscreen matches that of your smartphone — intuitive functions that will make navigating the camera’s settings feel effortless.
Who Should Buy the Sony ZV-1 II Camera?
This little camera is perfect for any video content creator. Specifically, YouTubers will love the compact size of this camera while also offering 4K footage. In addition, the vari-angle touchscreen allows you to see yourself while filming, so you never have to worry about being out of focus or making a mistake in your recording.
The included on-camera microphone means you won’t have to purchase an additional microphone to capture quality audio. Of course, the size of the camera makes carrying and capturing on-the-go footage easier than ever.
Lastly, with the new USB-C port, streamers can utilize this camera to live-stream footage directly out of the camera. Adjust the direction of the mic and you’ll be capturing great audio during the stream. The 18-50mm lens provides versatility, so your stream will always get the best angle possible.
Sony ZV-1 II vs ZV-1
Designed to be the perfect on-the-go content creation camera, the ZV-1 boasted some impressive features that have been improved upon in the II body. First, the vari-angle screen is returning but, this time, in a touchscreen format.
Aperture and Focal Length
Additionally, a new wider lens has been equipped on the ZV-1 II. Users can now shoot anywhere between 18mm and 50mm. This gives the creator ultimate versatility to capture content the way they want. The lens has a variable aperture of f1.4 to f4.0 — different from the original’s f1.8 to 2.8. And, the new one-inch Exmor RS Sensor provides creators with large bokeh and high sensitivity to help you capture stunning footage.
Camera Body Design
Sony has improved on some ergonomics in the newest model. The original ZV-1 required users to remove the grip to replace the battery. In the ZV-1 II, Sony has redesigned the body so you can change the battery without removing the grip. While this may seem like a minor change, removing this small inconvenience is a major win and something that all creators can appreciate in the ZV-1 II.
The new ZV-1 II also has a USB-C port that is not available on the previous model. This USB-C port allows creators to use the camera for live streaming or even as a webcam. Even if you don’t need either of these features, the new USB-C port is certainly a welcome addition on the ZV-1 II.
The new ZV-I II also introduces the use of a smartphone-like touchscreen that was not previously available on the ZV-1. This allows for a quick, efficient use of all the camera’s functions with a simple touch of the screen.
Comparison Chart
| Sony ZV-1 II | Sony ZV-1 | |
| Lens | 18-50mm | 24-70mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F/1.8-F/4 | F/1.8-F/2.8 |
| Video Resolution | 4K 30p, HD 120p | 4K 30p, HD 120p |
| Photo Resolution | 20 MP | 20 MP |
| Microphone | Three-capsule mic with changeable directivity | Three-capsule mic |
| USB | USB-C | Multi/Micro |
| Cinematic Vlog Setting | Yes | No |
| Touch operation | Yes | No |
The Sony ZV-1 II is certainly a compact camera that packs a punch for content creators. Offering everything you need to capture great 4K video and audio, anyone with a need to create content for social media should have their eyes on this brand-new camera.
