Sony ZV-1F Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£440
  • Avg. price in US: ~$450
  • Sensor size: 1-inch
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 2.41 µm
  • Weight: 256 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 360 shots

Sony ZV-1F review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

6.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

6.3

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

6.4

Sensor & Image

25.0%

5.5

Photo Features

18.0%

6.9

Video & Audio

14.0%

7.1

Display & Design

8.0%

5.6

Battery & Power

7.0%

7.1

Connectivity & Storage

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 5.2
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    7.9

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    10

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 5.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.1

    Weight

    30.0%

    5.4

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 8.3
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.2

    Price

    20.0%

    9.1

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    5.4

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    10

    Touchscreen

  • 4.9
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    7.9

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    3.8

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

  • 7.4
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.1

    Weight

    25.0%

    7.7

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 6.4
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.9

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    3.8

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    10

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.9
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.1

    Weight

    25.0%

    5.4

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £440

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony ZV-1F is a compact, lightweight vlogging camera featuring a 20.1-megapixel 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor and a fixed ultra-wide 20mm f/2.0 lens designed for group selfies and expansive backgrounds. It supports 4K video up to 30p and FHD up to 120p for slow-motion, paired with a fully articulating 3.0-inch touchscreen and a directional 3-capsule microphone for high-quality front-facing audio. Main pros include its pocket-sized portability, user-friendly 'Product Showcase' and 'Background Defocus' modes, and USB-C connectivity for easy charging and 720p plug-and-play streaming. However, its notable cons include a lack of optical image stabilization (relying only on electronic active mode with a crop), no RAW photo support (JPEG only), the absence of a built-in ND filter, and a contrast-only autofocus system that can occasionally struggle with focus hunting.

Technical Specifications of Sony ZV-1F

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

?

Sensor & Image

25.0%

?

Photo Features

18.0%

?

Video & Audio

14.0%

?

Display & Design

8.0%

?

Battery & Power

7.0%

?

Connectivity & Storage

6.3
Sony ZV-1F has a technical score of 6.35 points, which is higher than 78.3% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
1.0
Sony ZV-1F has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.3

Overall score

40.0%

8.2

Price

6.9
Sony ZV-1F has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.9 points, which is higher than 85.4% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

1-inch
Sony ZV-1F uses a sensor classified as 1-inch; it is smaller than the sensor in 51.1% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 5.2% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

20.1 MP
Sony ZV-1F has a main camera resolution of 20.1 MP, which is higher than that of 61.7% of cameras and equal to that of 4.3% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

2.41 µm
Sony ZV-1F has a main camera pixel size of 2.41 µm which is smaller than in 52.4% of cameras and equal to the size in 3.6% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

125
Sony ZV-1F has a base ISO of 125 which is higher than that of 72.4% of cameras and equal to that of 8.1% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

12,800
Sony ZV-1F reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12,800, which is higher than that of 54.5% of cameras and equal to that of 18.7% of cameras.
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Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony ZV-1F does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

425
Sony ZV-1F has 425 focus points, more than the number offered by 90.3% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 3.8% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sony ZV-1F does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony ZV-1F supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

3,840 px
Sony ZV-1F supports 3,840 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 76% of cameras and equal to that of 19.2% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

100 Mbps
Sony ZV-1F has a video bitrate of 100 Mbps which is higher than that of 73% of cameras and equal to that of 8.7% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Sony ZV-1F supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Sony ZV-1F supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

256 g
Sony ZV-1F weighs 256 g which is lighter than 67.5% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

105.5 mm
Sony ZV-1F has a width of 105.5 mm which is narrower than 74.2% of cameras and equal to that of 0.5% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

60 mm
Sony ZV-1F has a height of 60 mm which is shorter than 78.1% of cameras and equal to that of 1.4% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

46.4 mm
Sony ZV-1F has a thickness of 46.4 mm which is thicker than 50.3% of cameras.
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Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

360 shots
Sony ZV-1F has a CIPA-rated battery life of 360 shots, which is longer than that of 59.6% of cameras and equal to that of 2.5% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,240 mAh
Sony ZV-1F has a battery capacity of 1,240 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 57.3% of cameras and equal to those in 3% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony ZV-1F has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony ZV-1F does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony ZV-1F supports Wi-Fi. This feature is available on 47.8% of cameras.
2.4GHz
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
Sony ZV-1F uses Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) which is newer than that of 54.2% of cameras and equal to that of 35.6% of cameras.
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony ZV-1F has Bluetooth. 22.6% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

4.1
Sony ZV-1F supports Bluetooth version 4.1 which is newer than that supported by 79.5% of cameras and equal to that of 6.8% of cameras.
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony ZV-1F features USB Type-C. 14.5% of cameras use USB-C ports.
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Sony ZV-1F vs the average camera

  • 402 more AF points
    Sony ZV-1F has more focus points than the average camera (425 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
    What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
    When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 200 points

    Sony ZV-1F has more focus points than the average camera (425 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.425 vs 23
  • Human eye AF
    Sony ZV-1F supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Autofocus detection designed to identify and prioritize human eyes for portrait and action shooting.
    When it matters: When you shoot portraits, weddings, or events and want the camera to prioritize people’s eyes automatically.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Sony ZV-1F uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
    Stacked BSI sensor.
    What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
    When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Has microphone input
    Sony ZV-1F has microphone input, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera has a microphone input for connecting an external mic.
    When it matters: When you record video and want better audio than the built-in microphones can provide.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • Stacked CMOS sensor
    Sony ZV-1F uses a stacked CMOS sensor, the average camera does not.
    Stacked BSI sensor.
    What it is: A sensor design that stacks circuitry behind the imaging layer to improve readout speed and overall responsiveness.
    When it matters: When you care about faster sensor readout for reduced distortion, quicker bursts, and better action performance.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F uses a stacked CMOS sensor, the average camera does not.
  • Fully articulated screen
    Sony ZV-1F has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
    What it is: A fully articulating display that can swing outward and rotate for flexible framing angles.
    When it matters: When you shoot from awkward angles, vlog, or need to see the screen while standing in front of the camera.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Sony ZV-1F supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
    Supports up to 120 fps high-speed video.
    What it is: The ability to record at high frame rates so motion can be played back more slowly than real time.
    When it matters: When you want to emphasize fast action, movement details, or dramatic moments in playback.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • Has USB Type-C
    Sony ZV-1F has a USB Type-C port, the average camera does not. 14.5% of cameras use USB-C.
    What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
    When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F has a USB Type-C port, the average camera does not. 14.5% of cameras use USB-C.
  • Fully articulated screen
    Sony ZV-1F has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
  • Has a touchscreen
    Sony ZV-1F has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
  • 5 more customizable buttons
    Sony ZV-1F has more customizable buttons than the average camera (5 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
  • 35.2% lighter
    Sony ZV-1F is lighter than the average camera (256 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 13.9 mm shorter body
    Sony ZV-1F is shorter than the average camera (60 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 14.4 mm narrower
    Sony ZV-1F is narrower than the average camera (105.5 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Sony ZV-1F uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Stacked CMOS sensor
    Sony ZV-1F uses a stacked CMOS sensor, the average camera does not.
  • 9 newer
    Sony ZV-1F is newer than the average camera (2022 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
  • 6,400 higher max ISO
    Sony ZV-1F has a higher max ISO than the average camera (12,800 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 3.9 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Sony ZV-1F has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • 402 more AF points
    Sony ZV-1F has more focus points than the average camera (425 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • Human eye AF
    Sony ZV-1F supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
  • Supports touch autofocus
    Sony ZV-1F supports touch autofocus, the average camera does not. 34.9% of cameras support touch autofocus.
  • Has microphone input
    Sony ZV-1F has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Sony ZV-1F supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • 1920 px higher video resolution
    Sony ZV-1F records higher-resolution video than the average camera (3,840 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
  • 3.33x higher video bitrate
    Sony ZV-1F has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (100 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • Clean HDMI output
    Sony ZV-1F offers clean HDMI output, the average camera does not.
  • Supports live streaming
    Sony ZV-1F supports live streaming, the average camera does not.
  • Supports log profiles
    Sony ZV-1F supports log profiles, the average camera does not.
  • 1 more microphones
    Sony ZV-1F has more microphones than the average camera (3 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Sony ZV-1F supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
  • 30 shots longer battery life
    Sony ZV-1F has longer battery life than the average camera (360 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • Has USB Type-C
    Sony ZV-1F has a USB Type-C port, the average camera does not. 14.5% of cameras use USB-C.
  • Has Bluetooth
    Sony ZV-1F supports Bluetooth, the average camera does not. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Sony ZV-1F supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Sony ZV-1F supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • Newer HDMI version
    Sony ZV-1F uses HDMI 2, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
  • No hot shoe
    Sony ZV-1F does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
    Cold shoe only.
  • No flash
    Sony ZV-1F does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
  • Smaller sensor
    Sony ZV-1F has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1-inch vs APS-C).
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Sony ZV-1F does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • 0.93 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Sony ZV-1F has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (2.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Sony ZV-1F does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • 29.75 s shorter maximum exposure
    Sony ZV-1F supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (0.3 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
  • Smaller sensor
    Sony ZV-1F has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1-inch vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Sony ZV-1F has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1-inch vs APS-C).1-inch vs APS-C
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Sony ZV-1F does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
    What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
    When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • No hot shoe
    Sony ZV-1F does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
    Cold shoe only.
    What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
    When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Sony ZV-1F does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
    What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
    When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • No flash
    Sony ZV-1F does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
    What it is: Indicates the presence of an integrated light source to illuminate subjects in low-light conditions.
    When it matters: When you need a quick built-in light for fill flash or simple low-light shots.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
  • 0.93 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Sony ZV-1F has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (2.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Sony ZV-1F has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (2.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.2.41 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • 29.75 s shorter maximum exposure
    Sony ZV-1F supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (0.3 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
    What it is: The longest exposure time the camera can set, useful for night photography and intentional motion blur.
    When it matters: When you shoot night scenes, light trails, or creative long-exposure images without external accessories.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony ZV-1F supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (0.3 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.0.25 vs 30
  • 51.7% more expensive
    Sony ZV-1F is more expensive than the average camera (£440 vs £290).
    Sony ZV-1F is more expensive than the average camera (£440 vs £290).£440 vs £290

Graphic comparison of Sony ZV-1F and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony ZV-1F?

  • Ultra-wide 20mm equivalent lens is excellent for vlogging and selfies
  • Lightweight and highly compact design, ideal for travel and on-the-go vlogging
  • High-quality 3-capsule microphone included, along with a wind screen (deadcat)
  • Easy to use, fast startup, and user-friendly menu system similar to higher-end Sony cameras
  • Fully articulating touchscreen and great autofocus performance in video
  • Versatile connectivity with USB-C charging while in use and plug-and-play webcam functionality

What customers dislike about Sony ZV-1F?

  • Active stabilization introduces a significant crop, reducing the field of view
  • Fixed prime lens (no optical zoom) limits versatility
  • Lacks a built-in ND filter, causing overexposure in bright daylight
  • Short battery life requires carrying extras for full-day shooting
  • Does not shoot in RAW format, limiting photo editing options

Expert reviews

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dpreview.com
13/10/2022

The DPReview evaluation of the Sony ZV-1F highlights it as a highly affordable, vlogging-centric compact camera featuring a large 1-inch sensor and a fixed 20mm-equivalent F2.0 wide-angle lens. Key strengths noted in the review include its ultra-wide field of view, a fully articulating touchscreen menu system, a quality three-capsule microphone with an included wind sock, and...Read more

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techradar.com
05/02/2023

Sony ZV-1F Review Summary The Sony ZV-1F is a compact, ultra-lightweight 256g entry-level vlogging camera designed for beginner content creators transitioning away from smartphone video. It delivers impressive 4K video and features a 20.1MP 1-inch sensor paired with a fixed, sharp 20mm ultra-wide lens. Built for ease of use, it boots up instantly when the 3-inch articulating...Read more

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uk.pcmag.com
30/01/2023

The Sony ZV-1F ($499.99) is an affordable, vlog-first compact camera featuring a sharp 20mm f/2 wide-angle prime lens and a 20MP Type 1 image sensor. It excels in user-friendly content creation thanks to strong in-camera audio, a built-in tally lamp, and a three-inch swing-out touchscreen LCD that features a convenient UI for adjusting settings like the Soft Skin effect. For video...Read more

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trustedreviews.com
08/12/2022

The Sony ZV-1F is positioned as a lightweight, budget-friendly vlogging camera ideal for beginners, featuring a 20mm f/2.0 fixed prime lens and a user-friendly vari-angle touchscreen. It excels at producing sharp 4K video with minimal setup, housed in a sustainable, compact chassis that allows for easy, close-up, wide-angle shooting. However, the review highlights significant...Read more

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stuff.tv
11/01/2023

The Sony ZV-1F is a premium, plastic-built, pocketable point-and-shoot camera designed specifically as a leaner, entry-level option for aspiring content creators and vloggers. It delivers crisp 4K video image quality at 24 or 30fps and features a highly responsive, sharp 3-inch twisty flip-out touchscreen alongside a built-in three-capsule microphone that captures excellent, clear...Read more

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tomsguide.com
06/02/2025

The Sony ZV-1F is an affordable, pocket-sized vlogging camera designed for amateur content creators stepping up from a smartphone. Priced at a budget-friendly $499, this video-first device features a 20.1MP sensor paired with a fixed ultra-wide 20mm lens. It delivers beautiful 4K/30P video and smooth 1080p slow-motion footage at up to 120fps, backed by a highly reliable 425-point...Read more

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shopmoment.com
22/01/2026

The Sony ZV-1 and ZV-1F are compact, affordable cameras designed specifically for social-forward content creators, TikTokers, and YouTubers. In terms of pros, both cameras offer high-quality 4K Ultra HD video that outperforms modern smartphones while remaining lightweight enough to fit into a pocket or fanny pack. The ZV-1 features impressive sound recording, versatile manual...Read more

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digitalcameraworld.com
03/01/2023

The Sony ZV-1F is an entry-level, pocket-sized 4K vlogging camera designed as an affordable step up from smartphone video creation. It features a fixed 20mm f/2 equivalent wide-angle prime lens, a 20.1MP 1-inch sensor, and a highly responsive 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen. The camera excels in controlled settings, delivering sharp, well-exposed 4K footage at 30/25p that outperforms...Read more

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pcmag.com
30/01/2023

The Sony ZV-1F is a pocket-sized, budget-friendly vlogging camera featuring a sharp 20mm wide-angle prime lens, a large Type 1 image sensor, and effective digital image stabilization for 4K video. While it offers useful tools for creators like a front-facing tally lamp and solid in-camera audio, PCMag highlights significant drawbacks including distracting, fluttering autofocus and a...Read more

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tech360.tv
13/10/2022

The Sony ZV-1F is a compact, lightweight camera designed specifically for entry-level vloggers, featuring a 20.1MP 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor paired with a fixed f/2.0 20mm ultra-wide lens. On the positive side, it streamlines the creation process with highly intuitive, user-friendly features like an automatic power-on when flipping out the touchscreen, a front tally recording...Read more

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hitechcentury.com
26/10/2022

The Sony ZV-1F is a compact, video-centric camera designed as an entry-level upgrade from a smartphone for vloggers, content creators, and social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. It features a 20.1MP Exmor RS CMOS sensor paired with a 20mm F/2.0 ultra-wide-angle fixed prime lens. The camera excels in video usability due to its novice-friendly touchscreen menu, a 180-degree...Read more

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computerbild.de
13/10/2022

The Sony ZV-1F is a compact camera designed specifically for vloggers and content creators, utilizing the high-quality 20-megapixel, 1-inch sensor from the RX100 VII series. Key advantages (pros) of this model include its crisp, detailed image quality in low light and a bright 20mm f/2 super-wide-angle prime lens that captures a wide field of view perfect for talking to the camera....Read more

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imtest.de
14/10/2022

The Sony ZV-1F is a compact, user-friendly vlogging camera bridging the gap between smartphones and complex system cameras, retailing at an original RRP of €649. It features a large 1-inch, 20-megapixel sensor that records 4K video at 30fps and Full HD up to 120fps. Tailored specifically for content creators, it delivers high-detail daylight imagery and offers smartphone-like touch...Read more

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digitalphoto.de
15/11/2022

The Sony ZV-1F is a compact, lightweight 255g vlogging camera featuring a 1-inch 20.1-megapixel sensor and a 20mm f/2 fixed lens, designed specifically for beginners entering the YouTube and vlogging space. Testing reveals strong 4K/30p video quality enhanced by flat picture profiles like S-Log2 and S-Log3, which offer flexible color grading options in post-production. Users benefit...Read more

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digitalkamera.de
08/03/2025

The Sony ZV-1F, analyzed in a digitalkamera.de review, is an entry-level, vlogging-focused camera featuring a 1-inch sensor, a fixed 20mm-equivalent f/2.0 lens, and a lightweight 256-gram design. Key advantages include an intuitive, side-flipping touchscreen, 4K video capabilities at 30fps, and optimized features for creators, such as a specialized "Bokeh Switch" and an effective...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
13/10/2022

Review Overview The Sony ZV-1F is a highly compact, entry-level vlogging camera featuring a 20.1-megapixel 1-inch sensor paired with a wide, fixed 20mm f/2 lens. It provides a more affordable and simplified alternative to its predecessor, the ZV-1, shedding the optical zoom for a fixed focal length while modernizing its connectivity with a long-awaited USB-C port and updated menu...Read more

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leclaireur.fnac.com
23/11/2023

The Labo Fnac review gives the Sony ZV-1F compact camera a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, calling it an ideal model for video creation. Tailored specifically for videographers, this camera offers an excellent price-to-quality ratio. It pairs a 20.1-megapixel sensor with a high-quality, fixed ZEISS lens that delivers exceptional optical performance and very satisfying colour accuracy. The...Read more

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phototrend.fr
17/10/2022

of the Sony ZV-1F However, several cost-cutting measures limit the device's flexibility, making it a strictly video-focused tool that is actively discouraged for serious photography. The most significant drawback is its reliance on a slower contrast-detection autofocus system rather than the hybrid autofocus of the ZV-1, resulting in minor focus latency because real-time tracking is...Read more

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20minutes.fr
20/10/2022

The Sony ZV-1F is a compact, video-centric digital camera designed specifically for novice content creators and aspiring vloggers. It features a 20.1-megapixel 1-inch CMOS sensor, a 7.5 cm articulating touchscreen LCD for easy self-framing, and the capability to shoot both horizontal and vertical videos up to 4K at 30 frames per second. To appeal to beginners, Sony integrated...Read more

R
repaire.net
03/02/2023

The Sony ZV-1F is evaluated as an agile, lightweight, and highly accessible entry-level camera designed specifically for casual content creators, beginners, and younger videographers. Tested in both personal vlogging scenarios and autonomous use by children, the device excels with its bright maximum f/2 aperture, excellent integrated three-capsule directional microphone, and a...Read more

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findmax.fr
23/07/2026

Despite its strengths in video, the camera has notable limitations, particularly for traditional photography, as its fixed 20mm lens lacks an optical zoom and restricts its overall versatility. Battery life is also limited, making a spare battery highly recommended for extended shooting sessions. Furthermore, it lacks a standard electronic viewfinder, a headphone jack for real-time...Read more

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fotografiamacro.org
23/07/2026

The Sony ZV-1F is an ultra-compact, 229-gram camera designed for entry-level vloggers, featuring a wide-angle fixed 20mm f/2 lens, a fully articulating touchscreen, and crisp 4K/30p video. Notable pros include the Product Showcase mode, an included wind muff for the built-in microphone, and creative style filters, making it a portable option for casual content creators. YouTube ·...Read more

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camerarace.com
23/07/2026

The Sony ZV-1F is characterized as a highly portable, entry-level compact camera designed for vlogging and casual content creation, earning respectable scores for street and daily photography. Its core strengths include a very lightweight form factor and an efficient autofocus system, though performance is limited by a 1-inch sensor. Key disadvantages identified include a lack of...Read more

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photolari.com
13/10/2022

The Photolari review of the Sony ZV-1F questions whether this pocket-sized, content-creator-focused camera is truly a worthwhile upgrade over a standard smartphone. Priced at €650 at launch, the review highlights that its primary purpose is to convince TikTokers, YouTubers, and vloggers that a dedicated 1-inch sensor device can deliver better natural bokeh and superior image quality...Read more

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saggiamente.com
13/10/2022

The Saggiamente review positions the Sony ZV-1F as an entry-level compact camera designed for creators, highlighting its wide 20mm fixed Zeiss lens, intuitive touchscreen, and effective vlogging features like Product Showcase. Key benefits include reliable real-time Eye AF, a fully articulating screen, and a 3-capsule microphone for improved audio. Conversely, the review identifies...Read more

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dday.it
29/10/2022

However, the review highlights several significant drawbacks, most notably the lack of optical image stabilization, relying instead on electronic stabilization that causes a heavy crop and struggles with movement. The camera also uses a contrast-only autofocus system that is slower and more prone to "hunting" than the hybrid AF found in its siblings, and it cannot shoot in RAW,...Read more

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global.techradar.com
20/02/2023

Sony ZV-1F Review Summary The Sony ZV-1F is an ultra-lightweight (256g) entry-level compact camera specifically built for beginner vloggers and social media content creators transitioning away from smartphone shooting. It features a 20.1 MP 1-inch CMOS sensor, records high-quality UHD 4K video, and includes an impressive SteadyShot image stabilisation system that delivers smooth...Read more

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altroconsumo.it
13/10/2022

The Altroconsumo review highlights the 20.1-megapixel Sony ZV-1F as a compact, budget-friendly 1-inch sensor camera tailored for entry-level vlogging. Key strengths include a 256-gram plastic build, a wide 20mm f/2.0 lens, a fully articulating screen, and specialized vlogging features like Product Showcase, background defocus, and a directional microphone with a windscreen. YouTube...Read more

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consumentenbond.nl
13/10/2022

The Sony ZV-1F is a compact, advanced pocket camera specifically engineered for content creators and vloggers looking for a simple, grab-and-go device. Reviewed by the Dutch consumer association Consumentenbond, this lightweight model stands out for its strong physical design, which features well-placed buttons, clear menu logic, and an integrated thumb rest at the back for a secure...Read more

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test-aankoop.be
13/10/2022

Test Aankoop evaluates the Sony ZV-1F as an entry-level, budget-friendly camera designed for vloggers, featuring a wide 20mm fixed lens, 4K/30p video, and a user-friendly, fully articulating touchscreen. Key strengths include the directional 3-capsule mic, efficient autofocus, and specialized vlogging features like Product Showcase, making it a viable smartphone alternative....Read more

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