Sony ZV-1
Sony · Compact · 20 MP · 1" · 4K video
Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sony |
| Model | ZV-1 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | May 26, 2020 |
| Camera type |  Compact |
| Camera size | 105 x 60 x 44 mm |
| Camera weight | 294 g |
Optics67/100 | |
About the OpticsThe Sony ZV-1 earns a score of 65/100 in general specifications. Measuring 105 x 60 x 44mm and weighing 294g (0.65lbs), the ZV-1 is designed for portability and convenience. In today’s competitive market, the Sony ZV-1 holds its own with its lightweight design and reasonable price point. Sony ZV-1 Overview and OpticsThe optics of the Sony ZV-1 earn a score of 67 out of 100. This camera features a 20-megapixel CMOS sensor with a 1″ size, a Bionz X processor, and a DXOMARK sensor score of 82. The shooting speed is 24, and the aspect ratio is 3:2. It is important to note that the ZV-1 has a fixed lens mount, meaning the lens cannot be changed. However, the camera does include image stabilization for steady shots. In the current market, the Sony ZV-1’s optics are competitive, especially considering its compact size and fixed lens. The 20-megapixel sensor and Bionz X processor provide high-resolution images and fast processing speeds. The image stabilization is an added advantage for capturing sharp images in various conditions. Considering the specifications, the Sony ZV-1 is a reliable choice for photographers looking for a compact and versatile camera with solid optics. Its performance in the optics department is commendable, making it a suitable option for various photography needs. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5472 x 3648 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS |
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. | 13.2 x 8.8 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | 1" |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 24 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. | Fixed |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Bionz 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. |  3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 12530200 |
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. | 128003003280000 |
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. | 12530200 |
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. | 256003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 3044080 |
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. | 200080032000 |
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. | 3150300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |  Yes |
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. | None |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A |
Video91/100 | |
About the VideoThe Sony ZV-1 boasts an impressive video score of 91/100, showcasing its strong performance in this category. This camera offers a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160, ensuring crisp and clear footage. Additionally, it supports a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, allowing for smooth slow-motion capture. The built-in time-lapse functionality further enhances its video capabilities. In today’s market, the Sony ZV-1 is a competitive option for videographers. Its 4K resolution and high frame rate make it suitable for various projects, from action-packed sports to detailed nature shots. The time-lapse feature adds versatility and creative possibilities for users. The Sony ZV-1’s video performance stands out among its competitors, offering professional-level quality in a compact package. Its combination of high-resolution capture, fast frame rates, and time-lapse functionality make it a reliable choice for those seeking top-notch video capabilities. | |
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  Yes |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  4K |
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 2160 |
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 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. |  Yes |
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, AVCHD, XAVC S |
Features68/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Sony ZV-1 has a feature score of 68 out of 100. This camera comes with a 3-inch touchscreen and a screen resolution of 921,600 dots. It also features a flip screen, making it convenient for vlogging and selfies. However, it lacks GPS functionality, which might be a drawback for some users who require geotagging. In today’s market, the Sony ZV-1 holds up well with its Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for easy connectivity and file transfers. These features are essential for modern users who value convenience and seamless integration with their devices. Considering the specifications, the Sony ZV-1 offers a solid package for users seeking a versatile camera with user-friendly features. While it may not be perfect, its strong points make it a worthy contender in the current market. | |
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  Yes |
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. | No |
GPS ⓘGPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. | No |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. | No |
| Screen type | LCD |
Touch screen ⓘTouchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  Yes |
| Screen size | 3" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 9216001150001500000 |
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. |  Yes |
Live view ⓘLive View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  Yes |
Wi-Fi ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. |  Yes |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  Yes |
Storage & Battery29/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe Sony ZV-1 scores 29/100 in the storage and battery department. It has one memory card slot which accepts SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards. In today’s market, having a single memory card slot may not be sufficient for professional use, as many photographers prefer dual slots for backup purposes. However, it might still be adequate for casual users. The battery life of the ZV-1 is 260 shots, which is relatively short compared to other cameras in its class. This limitation might require users to carry extra batteries, especially during extended shoots. The camera uses an NP-BX1 battery type and supports USB charging, which offers convenience when charging on-the-go. Taking these factors into account, the Sony ZV-1’s storage and battery capabilities may not be the strongest in the market, but they are sufficient for casual users and content creators who prioritize other features. | |
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo |
| Dual memory card slots | No |
| Battery type | NP-BX1 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 260 shots1505000 |
| USB charging |  Yes |