Customer Ratings & Reviews

For this test unit, Sony was also gracious enough to send the handheld tripod accessory as well as a 64GB memory card, two features that are unlikely to be included in the base camera package. As a reader of reviews, I'd ask you how long have you known the Sony brand? If it's been for decades, then you already know and understand Sony's contributions to the picture-taking world. And even though smartphones like the iPhone have clearly taken great strides in matching the same performance of a dedicated camera, as what I would call a "pro-sumer" model, the Sony ZV-1 hits in every area imaginable. While I am still testing this unit, I wanted to go ahead and make mention that the camera provides complete control over how you wish to shoot both audio and video. There are several presets available (which are nice if you want a generally good macro, portrait, landscape or other shot), as well as what seems like an infinite number of combinations regarding shutter speed, raw format type, several layers of focus, etc. The door-swing touch-sensitive viewfinder is a welcome bonus, especially if you truly are into video blogging and need to see a preview of what is actually being shot. And being touch-sensitive, you're able to tap-to-focus as well as switch the type of focus you're wanting to use. Camera construction is certainly sturdy enough for most camera applications. The female screw at the bottom also accepts standard tripods as well, so you're not limited to only what Sony might provide, especially if you have a years-old tripod that's worked with all of your other gear. Also, the ZV-1 is definitely wifi-capable. Once logged into a network, it's pretty simple to use Sony's free iPhone app to seamlessly transfer pictures from camera to phone. Or there is a PC-based application (that I have yet to try out) that appears to be the equivalent of an Adobe-based application to further enhance pics (and maybe videos). If you're looking for a sub-DSLR-based camera that's otherwise steps above a typical smartphone, the ZV-1 is the camera for you.

The Sony ZV-1 camera is a small heavily armed tactical device meant to tackle a big list of digital imaging tasks, from movies to selfies to still images of all types--close up, panoramic, portraits. It's targeting the VLOG market, with an available remote grip/tripod gadget that connects with bluetooth to the camera itself. The grip is a solid handle that features some basic control buttons, and has two flip out "feet" to make a little tripod. The top of the grip is the usual tripod mount for cameras, and has an easy-access press button to tilt the camera. All you have to do is flip out the screen on the camera, and aim it at yourself, and use the Sony Edge Mobile remote app on your phone (or PC) to control the camera for producing a VLOG. There is also free Sony software for PC or Mac you can use to edit and sort images. At the price of this camera and grip, it might have too steep a learning curve for even an adventurous newbie. If you have some experience with digital cameras and video, this may just the thing for your next step up. It is by far the fastest multi-shot digital camera I've ever used. You can really make some cool GIFs with other programs with a series of fast shots this camera takes while the auto-focus is bringing the subject into focus. Pluses---Zeiss lens. Great, stunning quality still images. Sharp macro auto-focus. Cool focusing effects. The "product showcase" mode is excellent, the focus quickly moves to something you hold up to the camera. The gimbal/tripod/remote that is included as a bonus right now is a cool idea. Phone app for remote operation and easy image editing/sharing. The wifi features of this unit are a plus, but a bit tricky to set up and use for transferring images or video to PC. Minuses--Tiny buttons. You almost need a stylus. The camera could have been a bit bigger. The battery doesn't last very long at all. I've had to recharge three times just experimenting with it. So many tricky little settings dependent on other settings. This could be a one-semester college class learning everything this camera can do. Gone are the days where cameras and phones came with a nice thick little manual. You have to download (or view online) a huge PDF in this case. But don't get me wrong--once you get all the features and options down pat this camera probably can do anything and everything a digital camera can be expected to do.

First of all, doing some research there are hours and hours of Youtube content on the PROS of this camera. I spent a decent amount of time watching and learning how the professionals rated this camera and to see how they would best utilize this camera. I was shocked with how versatile this camera really is!! Sony hit this one out of the park, I am pretty familiar with DSLR's and have GoPros for some of the action/adventure capturing so this camera I had high hopes for to become that in between solution. I can say without a doubt it really has. It has some of the entry level capabilities paired with some of the high end demands. Sony also found a way to simplify some of the complicated, the single button to apply the bokah affect is super easy. The sony menu took some getting used to so expect a decent amount of time to become familiar with how this camera ticks. This camera paired with Sony's Vlogger Accessory Kit can get anyone interested in experimenting with a YouTube channel off the ground with tons of room to grow as you learn. The camera's specifications also combine some of the best features of higher end options in a more affortable sweet spot for price. I have been very happy with the content this camera captures and can only think of two minor cons, battery life but the trade off is a super compact feature packed camera, so just buy another battery. Second con is the plastic covers for the HDMI, audio/mic input and usb charging port need very careful operation as to not damage them, only time will tell how durable they are and after playing with this camera for about a week this is the only thing I can really find about it that is less awesome. This is a great camera and will be a huge success, hoping the tons of existing reviews and online content help showcase how great this camera really is!!!

10/10 would recommend. There are so many cool features I have yet to find out about! I’m very satisfied with my first camera purchase & love the pictures i’ve taken so far!

Excellent video and sound quality! Def recommend tripod because there’s hardly any stabilization so it can look wobbly if hand held. Generally easy to use once you play around with it

Definitely recommended 10 out of 10 amazing I love it !!

Amazing image and video quality in a compact size. Fast autofocus, flip screen, and clear audio—perfect for vlogs and content creators.

They didnt have white in store so Brady in winchester VA was very helpful in having it shipped to my home for no extra cost. He also helped me purchase a kindle . The camera is very high definition and easy to work. Love it.

I have a Sony A6100, and this camera is a much better deal if you don't want to buy lenses. It's small, and has very good video. I shoot in 4k with ease, and it looks really good with the defocus on. Blurred background is the way to go, nothing else matters. If you like to Vlog, this is your camera. However, it takes great photos too, simply a great value. Product Show is great for videos of you do need to show something, auto focus is super fast! Battery life is really good too, and it charges daily quickly. My only gripe is a flip out screen, I like it on the top. Bottom line, it's totally worth it, and should fit lots of peoples needs over even exceed them. Love it.

So far so good! I'm new to learning cameras so this little guy is great the quality is excellent. I like it a lot. I'm still learning so it does have a ton of features I haven't gotten to yet but I just recently found out I can use my camera as a webcam too if I put it in movie mode I thought that was really cool. I would recommend this to others as a basics beginners camera. If you have the money to spare and want to do a lot with a camera I don't recommend this one go for one of the higher professional DSLR type cameras. If you are just doing things here and there this is great for starting out and carrying on the go since its small.

Amazing camera for videos and pictures. I suggest not getting the white tho as it gets dirty pretty easy.

Although we have a pair of Sony A7IVs we choose to shoot wedding videos with the ZV-1! It is superv easy to set up and use, and it takes great videos. The batteries run down very quick so we got 2 dummy batteries and connect them to power banks. The onboard mics and windscreen are decent, but we upgraded to Rode MiniMics that have excellent wind screens and we get zero wind noise even at the beach.

I needed something other than my cellphone to create videos and this camera is perfect. Using it is a breeze and I'm happy there are so many advanced features and settings available to me as I become more proficient with this camera(I'm a rookie). Casting to TV and playing videos via HDMI was also a breeze. The still photos are also pretty amazing, that motivates me to go hiking and take pictures. Also, the tripod was excellent, easy to use.

Is okay I recommend to any one beginner ans like it

Simply incredible I look perfect while I make transitions

Overall seems easy to use and video quality quite good. Its small size makes it easily portable. The flip out screen is great to help make sure your shots are on target especially when doing talking head videos for a podcast etc.

Loved this compact little camera. I wanted something as an everyday carry as I didn’t want to lug around my Full-frame and lenses. I was impressed with the sensor quality and compact size. Perfect for the everyday carry of you want a camera other than your phone.

A little small to handle if you have large hands but so far its a great video camera. Great for you-tube vloggers. I would not use the mic it comes with , definitely get a rode mic boom stick on top of it. Great features, great video quality. bad battery life. You need a dummy battery and extended usb charger to get 2 hours filming time. Each battery only lasts 30 min.

This is a great little camera, I used it for my podcasting on Tales of Glory. I replaced my Logitech Brio and use this with OBS software on my Mac. Love the camera. Very easy to use!!!!

I'm a content creator and this is the PERFECT beginners camera! So easy to use, has auto settings that make filming extremely easy. 10/10 recommend!