CameraReview

Sony a7 IV vs Sony ZV-E10 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Sony a7 IV
Sony
Sony a7 IV
Mirrorless · 33 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
84
SCORE
$1,998
best of 6 retailers
Best Price →
Sony ZV-E10
Sony
Sony ZV-E10
Mirrorless · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
65
SCORE
$609
best of 11 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand SonySony
Model a7 IVZV-E10
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20212021
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
21/10/202127/07/2021
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 131 x 96 x 80 mm115 x 64 x 45 mm
Camera weight 659 g343 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
33 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
7008 x 46726000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
23.8 x 35.623.5 x 15.6
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
10 fps04511 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Sony ESony E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XRBionz X
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:24:3
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
512003003280000320003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
503020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
2044003003280000512003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
75903004250300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
ElectronicNone
Viewfinder dots 368640009900000N/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
3840 x 21603840 x 1920
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
120 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265MPEG-4, XAVC S, MOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
104000011500015000009200001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FZ100NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
580 shots1505000440 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7 IV outshines the Sony ZV-E10 with a 19-point lead, scoring 84/100 compared to the ZV-E10’s 65/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2021, with the a7 IV announced on October 21st and the ZV-E10 on July 27th. They share similarities in their camera type and release year.

The Sony a7 IV boasts a higher score and a more expensive launch price of $2499. Its larger size (131 x 96 x 80mm) and heavier weight (659g/1.45lbs) suggest a more feature-packed and robust camera.

On the other hand, the Sony ZV-E10 offers a more affordable option at $700. Its smaller size (115 x 64 x 45mm) and lighter weight (343g/0.76lbs) make it a more portable and convenient choice for casual users.

Taking all factors into account, the Sony a7 IV stands out as a superior camera, while the Sony ZV-E10 provides a budget-friendly alternative for those seeking portability and affordability.

Sony a7 IV vs ZV-E10 Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Sony ZV-E10 in optics, scoring 85/100 compared to the ZV-E10’s 69/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor and a similar shooting speed, with the a7 IV at 10fps and the ZV-E10 at 11fps. Furthermore, they both utilize Sony’s lens mounts, with the a7 IV using the Sony FE mount and the ZV-E10 using the Sony E mount.

The a7 IV surpasses the ZV-E10 in several aspects. It boasts a higher megapixel count at 33, compared to the ZV-E10’s 24, allowing for more detailed and higher resolution images. The a7 IV also features a superior sensor, with a DXOMARK score of 97, compared to the ZV-E10’s 86. Additionally, the a7 IV has a full-frame sensor, while the ZV-E10 has an APS-C sensor, providing better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. The a7 IV also offers image stabilization, which the ZV-E10 lacks, making it more suitable for handheld shooting and video recording.

The ZV-E10, however, does have a slight advantage in its aspect ratio of 4:3, compared to the a7 IV’s 3:2. This ratio allows for a more square format that is better suited for social media platforms like Instagram.

Considering these factors, the Sony a7 IV is the clear winner in terms of optics, offering higher image quality, better sensor performance, and image stabilization. The Sony ZV-E10, while not as strong in optics, may still be suitable for users who prioritize a more social media-friendly aspect ratio.

Sony a7 IV vs ZV-E10 Video Performance

The Sony a7 IV and Sony ZV-E10 both have a video score of 91/100, indicating that these cameras have similar video capabilities. They share several common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution, 120fps max video frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, there are slight differences in their performance.

The Sony a7 IV has an advantage in max video dimensions with 3840 x 2160 pixels, offering slightly higher video resolution compared to the Sony ZV-E10’s 3840 x 1920 pixels. This difference results in more detailed and sharper visuals when shooting videos with the a7 IV.

On the other hand, the Sony ZV-E10 does not outshine the a7 IV in any specific video aspect, as they share the same video score and most specifications. The only difference is the slightly lower max video dimensions, which may not be a significant drawback for casual users or those who prioritize other features over video quality.

Considering the similarities and differences, both the Sony a7 IV and Sony ZV-E10 are excellent choices for video shooting. The a7 IV holds a slight edge due to its higher max video dimensions, providing better video quality. However, the ZV-E10 remains a competitive option, especially for users who do not require the extra resolution offered by the a7 IV. The choice between these two cameras ultimately depends on individual preferences and specific requirements for video performance.

Sony a7 IV vs ZV-E10 Features and Benefits

The Sony a7 IV wins the features comparison with a score of 83/100, while the Sony ZV-E10 scores 68/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen functionality, flip screen, lack of GPS, and the presence of WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Sony a7 IV surpasses the ZV-E10 in screen resolution, boasting 1,040,000 dots compared to the ZV-E10’s 920,000 dots. This higher resolution provides clearer and more detailed image previews and camera settings, enhancing the overall user experience.

On the other hand, the Sony ZV-E10 does not hold any advantages over the a7 IV in terms of features. Both cameras share the same core specifications, with the a7 IV only having an edge in screen resolution.

Considering these points, the Sony a7 IV is the superior camera in terms of features. Its higher screen resolution offers an improved user experience, while the other shared specifications ensure that both cameras provide users with essential functions such as connectivity and screen flexibility. The Sony ZV-E10 does not have any distinct advantages in this comparison, making the a7 IV the clear winner.

Sony a7 IV vs ZV-E10 Storage and Battery

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Sony ZV-E10 in storage and battery with a score of 76/100 compared to the ZV-E10’s 24/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as accepting SD memory cards and using rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

The a7 IV’s superior score is due to its dual memory card slots, which accept both CFexpress Type A and SD cards, providing more storage options and backup capabilities. Additionally, the a7 IV boasts a longer battery life of 580 shots, compared to the ZV-E10’s 440 shots, and uses the more advanced NP-FZ100 battery. The a7 IV also supports USB charging, increasing its convenience for on-the-go users.

The ZV-E10, while falling behind in overall storage and battery performance, does have a slight advantage in memory card compatibility, as it accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo cards in addition to SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. However, this does not compensate for its single memory card slot, shorter battery life, and lack of USB charging.

Ultimately, the Sony a7 IV offers superior storage and battery capabilities, making it the better choice for photographers and videographers who require more robust options and longer shooting sessions. The ZV-E10 may be suitable for users with less demanding storage and battery needs, but the a7 IV is the clear winner in this comparison.

Sony a7 IV vs ZV-E10 – Our Verdict

Sony a7 IV vs ZV-E10 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a7 IV or the Sony ZV-E10: