SONY ZV-1

A genuinely new kind of camera, designed for vlogging

- Rod Lawton

There are lots of stills cameras that are also pretty good for vlogging, and a few that have been adapted with flip-over screens, mic sockets and face/eye detect AF. Sony’s ZV-1 stands out, however, as a camera that’s been built for vlogging first. It will also shoot stills perfectly well, but vlogging is what it’s made for. Its nearest rival is Canon’s PowerShot G7 X Mark III, but the new Sony beats that camera for screen articulation, autofocus and audio.

The integrated lens is a 24-70mmequivalent f/1.8-2.8 zoom similar to the one used on older Sony RX100 models, and the sensor is a 20MP 1-inch type used across the RX100 range. But apart from these technical similarities, and a broadly similar size and weight, the ZV-1 is a very different camera physically and operationally.

Three features on the Sony ZV-1 stand out. First, it has a fully variable screen, when Sony usually sticks to simpler tilting screens. The Vari-angle pivot is especially suitable for shooting video vertically; purists may shudder, but vlogs are often designed for consumption on a smartphone.

Second, there’s a larger-than-usual microphone grille on the top plate. The internal mic has been optimized for voice recording, and for the attachment of a custom-designed windshield included with the camera. This clips into the accessory shoe alongside the mic, covering it with a furry baffle.