Sony ZV E10 Vs ZV1 – Which One Is the Best & Why?

The Sony ZV-E10 vs ZV1 comparison reveals two powerful vlogging cameras with distinct advantages. The ZV-E10 offers interchangeable lenses and a larger APS-C sensor, while the ZV1 boasts a compact design with a built-in zoom lens. Both cameras excel in content creation, catering to different user preferences and shooting styles.

Why Do I Recommend Sony ZV1

While both the Sony ZV-E10 and ZV1 are excellent vlogging cameras, the ZV1 stands out in several key areas. Here’s why I recommend the Sony ZV1:

  • Compact and lightweight: The ZV1 is significantly smaller and lighter (294g vs 343g), making it more portable and easier to handle for extended periods.
  • Built-in zoom lens: The ZV1 comes with a built-in 24-70mm equivalent f/1.8-2.8 lens, eliminating the need for lens changes and reducing overall kit size.
  • Faster autofocus: With 315 phase-detection AF points, the ZV1 offers quicker and more reliable autofocus compared to the ZV-E10’s contrast-detection system.
  • Superior video stabilization: The ZV1’s optical SteadyShot stabilization provides smoother footage than the ZV-E10’s electronic stabilization.
  • Better low-light performance: The ZV1’s larger 1-inch sensor and brighter lens combination often results in superior low-light image quality.
  • Simpler operation: The fixed-lens design of the ZV1 makes it more user-friendly for beginners and those who prefer a streamlined setup.
  • Built-in ND filter: The ZV1 includes a built-in 3-stop ND filter, useful for maintaining proper exposure in bright conditions without needing external filters.
  • Faster continuous shooting: With 24fps burst shooting (vs 11fps on the ZV-E10), the ZV1 is better suited for capturing fast action sequences.
  • Weather-sealing: The ZV1 offers some degree of weather resistance, making it more suitable for outdoor shooting in various conditions.
  • More affordable: Generally, the ZV1 is priced lower than the ZV-E10, offering great value for its features and performance.

Side by Side Comparison Of Sony ZV-E10 Vs ZV1

FeatureSony ZV-E10Sony ZV1
Sensor TypeAPS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)1-inch (13.2 x 8.8 mm)
Megapixels24.2 MP20.1 MP
Lens MountE-mount (Interchangeable)Fixed lens
LensDepends on lens attached24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 equivalent
Image StabilizationDigital onlyOptical + Digital
ISO Range100-32000 (exp. to 51200)125-12800 (exp. to 80)
Autofocus Points425315
Continuous Shooting11 fps24 fps
Video Resolution4K/30p, 1080/120p4K/30p, 1080/120p
LCD Screen3-inch fully articulating3-inch fully articulating
Microphone3-capsule directional3-capsule directional
Battery Life440 shots (LCD)260 shots (LCD)
Weight343g (body only)294g
Dimensions115.2 x 64.2 x 44.8 mm105.5 x 60.0 x 43.5 mm
StorageSingle SD card slotSingle SD card slot
ConnectivityWi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-CWi-Fi, Bluetooth, Micro-USB
Price Check Sony ZV-E10 PriceCheck Sony ZV1 Price

What are the key similarities between the Sony ZV-E10 and ZV1

FeatureSony ZV-E10Sony ZV1
Target audienceVloggers and content creatorsVloggers and content creators
Video resolution4K/30p, 1080p/120p4K/30p, 1080p/120p
Flip-out screenYes, fully articulatingYes, fully articulating
Product showcase settingYesYes
Background defocus buttonYesYes
Directional 3-capsule micYesYes
Mic and headphone jacksYesYes
Live streaming capabilityYesYes
Eye AF and real-time trackingYesYes
S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLGYesYes
Bluetooth and Wi-FiYesYes
USB-C port for charging/dataYesYes
Soft skin effectYesYes
Touch screen operationYesYes
ISO range100-32000 (expandable)100-12800 (expandable)
Check Sony ZV-E10 PriceCheck Sony ZV1 Price

Both cameras share many features designed specifically for vloggers and content creators, including high-quality video capabilities, vlogging-specific functions, and connectivity options. The main differences lie in their form factors, sensor sizes, and lens systems rather than their core feature sets.

What can both do?

Both the Sony ZV-E10 and ZV1 are capable of:

  • Recording high-quality 4K video at 30fps
  • Capturing slow-motion footage at 1080p/120fps
  • Producing excellent vlogs and social media content
  • Utilizing Real-time Eye AF for accurate focus on subjects
  • Offering a Product Showcase Setting for object focus
  • Providing a fully articulating LCD screen for self-recording
  • Delivering high-quality audio with built-in directional microphones
  • Supporting external microphones via 3.5mm jack
  • Offering customizable picture profiles for advanced color grading
  • Enabling easy content sharing via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Providing time-lapse recording capabilities
  • Supporting live streaming functionality
  • Offering touchscreen operation for intuitive control
  • Providing a dedicated button for background defocus effect
  • Delivering excellent low-light performance for their respective sensor sizes

Think To Consider When Choosing

Image Quality and Sensor Size:

The Sony ZV-E10 boasts a larger APS-C sensor, which gives it an edge in terms of overall image quality, especially in low-light situations. The larger sensor allows for better light gathering capabilities, resulting in cleaner images with less noise at higher ISO settings. This can be particularly beneficial for content creators who often work in challenging lighting conditions or want to achieve a more cinematic look with shallower depth of field.

On the other hand, the Sony ZV1’s 1-inch sensor, while smaller, is still capable of producing excellent image quality, especially considering its compact size. The ZV1’s sensor is larger than those found in most smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras, offering a good balance between image quality and portability.

Lens Options and Versatility:

One of the most significant differences in the Sony ZV-E10 vs ZV1 comparison is the lens system. The ZV-E10 features an interchangeable lens mount, allowing you to use a wide variety of E-mount lenses. This versatility is a major advantage for content creators who want to experiment with different focal lengths, apertures, and lens characteristics. Whether you need a wide-angle lens for vlogging, a telephoto for distant subjects, or a fast prime for low-light situations, the ZV-E10 can accommodate your needs.

The ZV1, in contrast, comes with a fixed 24-70mm equivalent f/1.8-2.8 lens. While this limits your options compared to the ZV-E10, it offers a versatile zoom range suitable for most vlogging and content creation scenarios. The bright maximum aperture is excellent for low-light performance and creating pleasing background blur. For many users, especially those new to videography or those who prioritize convenience, the ZV1’s all-in-one package can be a significant advantage.

Autofocus and Tracking:

Both cameras excel in autofocus performance, featuring Sony’s renowned Real-time Eye AF technology. This system is particularly useful for vloggers and content creators who frequently film themselves or others, ensuring that the subject’s eyes remain in sharp focus.

The ZV-E10 has a slight edge with 425 autofocus points compared to the ZV1’s 315 points. This can result in more precise focusing and better tracking of moving subjects. However, in real-world usage, both cameras perform admirably, and the difference may not be noticeable for most users.

Video Capabilities:

When it comes to video recording, both the ZV-E10 and ZV1 offer impressive capabilities. They can both shoot 4K video at 30fps and Full HD at up to 120fps for slow-motion footage. The cameras also support S-Log2 and S-Log3 profiles, allowing for greater flexibility in post-production color grading.

The ZV-E10’s larger sensor can provide a slight advantage in terms of dynamic range and low-light performance in video. However, the ZV1 counters with built-in optical image stabilization, which can result in smoother handheld footage compared to the ZV-E10’s digital-only stabilization.

Both cameras feature the innovative Product Showcase Setting, which automatically shifts focus from the presenter’s face to an object held up to the camera. This feature is particularly useful for product reviewers and demonstrators.

Audio Quality:

Audio is crucial for content creators, and both cameras come equipped with high-quality built-in directional microphones. These microphones are designed to capture clear audio while minimizing background noise, making them suitable for vlogging and on-the-go recording.

The ZV1 has a slight advantage with its included windscreen (dead cat), which helps reduce wind noise when recording outdoors. However, both cameras support external microphones via a 3.5mm jack, allowing you to use higher-quality microphones for more professional audio recording.

Portability and Handling:

The Sony ZV1 takes the lead in terms of portability. Its compact size and lighter weight make it an excellent choice for travel vloggers or content creators who value a pocket-sized camera. The fixed lens also means you don’t need to carry additional lenses, further enhancing its portability.

The ZV-E10, while slightly larger and heavier, is still remarkably compact for an interchangeable lens camera. Its larger grip can provide better handling, especially when using larger lenses. The ability to change lenses also means you can adapt the camera to different shooting scenarios, albeit at the cost of increased bulk when carrying multiple lenses.

Battery Life and Connectivity:

Battery life is an important consideration for content creators, and the ZV-E10 has a clear advantage here. It can capture up to 440 shots on a single charge (when using the LCD), compared to the ZV1’s 260 shots. This longer battery life can be crucial for extended shooting sessions or when traveling without easy access to charging.

Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy file transfer and remote control. However, the ZV-E10 features a more modern USB-C port, which allows for faster data transfer and more convenient charging options compared to the ZV1’s Micro-USB port.

Price and Value:

When considering the Sony ZV-E10 vs ZV1, price is an important factor. The ZV1 typically comes in at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for beginners or those on a tighter budget. Its all-in-one nature also means you don’t need to invest in additional lenses to get started.

The ZV-E10, while generally more expensive, offers greater long-term value for those who plan to expand their kit over time. The ability to use different lenses means you can adapt the camera to your evolving needs and shooting styles.