Sony ZV-1 II Review: Compact Vlogging Camera with Upgraded Features

Who Should Buy the Sony ZV-1 II?

The ZV-1 II is ideal for:

• Vloggers and YouTubers needing a compact, high-quality camera.
• Travel creators looking for a portable, wide-angle shooting solution.
• Streamers requiring a high-quality webcam.
• Beginners who need an easy-to-use, all-in-one content creation tool.

Sony continues to refine its lineup of compact vlogging cameras with the release of the Sony ZV-1 II, a successor to the widely popular Sony ZV-1. This latest model improves upon its predecessor by offering a wider zoom lens, upgraded microphone system, and enhanced connectivity options, all while maintaining its lightweight and portable design.

For those who prioritize high-quality video content, whether for YouTube, social media, or live streaming, this camera offers an excellent balance of performance, usability, and convenience. The new 18-50mm f/1.8-4.0 lens allows creators to capture wider shots, making it easier to frame scenes without needing an external lens.

The camera also features Sony’s industry-leading Real-Time Eye Autofocus and AI-driven subject tracking, ensuring that the subject remains sharp even while moving. The three-capsule directional microphone provides clearer audio pickup, making it easier to film in different environments without an external microphone.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy-to-use vlogging camera or an experienced creator searching for a compact yet powerful content tool, the Sony ZV-1 II presents a compelling option.

Sony ZV-1 II: Specification

Here is a detailed specification table for the Sony ZV-1 II:

Category	Specification
Body	Compact, plastic build with rubberized grip
Dimensions	105.5 x 60.0 x 46.7 mm (4.15 x 2.36 x 1.84 inches)
Weight (with battery & card)	Approx. 292 g (10.3 oz)
Weather Sealing	No
Sensor	1.0-type (13.2 mm x 8.8 mm) Exmor RS CMOS
Effective Pixels	20.1 Megapixels
Total Pixels	21.0 Megapixels
Maximum Resolution	5472 x 3648
Aspect Ratios	3:2, 16:9, 4:3, 1:1
Image Processor	BIONZ X
ISO Sensitivity	Auto, 125-12800 (expandable to 80-25600)
Image Stabilization	Digital (Active Mode)
ND Filter	Built-in (ND 1/8)
Lens	ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 18-50mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Range	f/1.8 (Wide) – f/4.0 (Tele)
Optical Zoom	2.7x
Digital Zoom	Approx. 4x
Autofocus System	Contrast-Detection AF, Phase Detection AF
AF Features	Real-time Eye AF (Human & Animal), Face Detection, Object Tracking
Focus Points	315 (Phase Detection)
Manual Focus	Yes
Minimum Focus Distance	Wide: 5 cm (0.16 ft), Tele: 10 cm (0.33 ft)
LCD Screen	3.0-inch Fully Articulating Touchscreen LCD
Screen Resolution	921,600 dots
Touchscreen	Yes
Viewfinder	No
Shutter Speed	1/2000 sec – 30 sec
Continuous Shooting	Up to 24 fps
Metering Modes	Multi, Center-weighted, Spot
Exposure Compensation	±3 EV (1/3 EV step)
White Balance	Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Flash, Custom
Self-Timer	2 sec, 10 sec
Shooting Modes	Auto, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual, Scene Modes, Creative Styles
Video Formats	XAVC S 4K, XAVC S HD
Video Resolutions	4K: 3840 x 2160 (30p/25p/24p), Full HD: 1920 x 1080 (120p/100p/60p/50p/30p/25p/24p)
Slow & Quick Motion	Yes
HDR Video	Yes (HLG, S-Log3, S-Log2)
Live Streaming	Yes (USB Streaming)
Microphone	Built-in 3-Capsule Directional Microphone (Wind Shield included)
Speaker	Mono
Memory Card	SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I)
USB Port	USB Type-C (supports charging & data transfer)
HDMI Output	Micro HDMI (Type-D)
Microphone Port	3.5mm Jack
Headphone Port	No
Wi-Fi	Yes
Bluetooth	Yes
Remote Control	Yes (via Sony Imaging Edge app)
Battery Type	NP-BX1 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery
Battery Life (CIPA)	Approx. 260 shots or 60 mins of continuous video recording
USB Charging	Yes
Product Showcase Mode	Yes
Background Defocus	Yes (One-touch bokeh control)
Face Priority AE	Yes
Soft Skin Effect	Yes

This all-in-one vlogging camera is perfect for content creators, offering wide-angle zoom, enhanced autofocus, high-quality video, and excellent audio recording in a compact, lightweight package.

Design and Build Quality

The Sony ZV-1 II retains the compact and lightweight design of its predecessor but introduces refinements that improve handling and usability.

Materials and Durability

Constructed primarily from polycarbonate plastic, the camera feels sturdy yet lightweight. While it does not feature weather sealing, it is built for durability, making it suitable for everyday use.

Portability and Handling

With a weight of 292g, the camera is light enough for all-day vlogging. Its compact form factor makes it easy to carry in a small bag or even a pocket, which is ideal for travel creators and vloggers.

Button Layout and Ergonomics

Sony has designed the ZV-1 II with an intuitive layout, featuring:

• A large, easy-to-access record button
• A dedicated background defocus button for quick bokeh effects
• A zoom control slider near the shutter button for seamless zoom adjustments

The flip-out touchscreen is fully articulating, making it easy to frame shots from any angle, whether recording selfies, interviews, or overhead footage.

The design improvements make the ZV-1 II one of the most user-friendly vlogging cameras available.

Lens and Optics

One of the most significant upgrades in the Sony ZV-1 II is its new 18-50mm f/1.8-4.0 lens. This wider zoom range provides greater flexibility for content creators.

Focal Length and Aperture

The 18mm wide-angle view makes it easier to fit more into the frame, which is essential for handheld vlogging and travel videos. The 50mm zoom allows for closer framing when needed, making it useful for portrait shots and product reviews.

The f/1.8 aperture ensures good low-light performance, creating soft bokeh effects when shooting at wider apertures.

Autofocus System

Sony’s AI-powered Real-Time Eye Autofocus and Subject Tracking ensures that faces stay in focus, even when moving within the frame. This is especially helpful for vloggers who frequently switch between subjects or move around while filming.

Image Stabilization

The Active SteadyShot stabilization minimizes camera shake, making handheld shooting smoother. While it is not as effective as a gimbal, it does an excellent job of reducing minor shakes and jitters.

These lens and autofocus improvements make the ZV-1 II a more versatile and user-friendly camera for both beginners and experienced content creators.

Image and Video Quality

4K and Full HD Video Performance

The ZV-1 II records in 4K at 30fps, delivering sharp, detailed footage with accurate colors. Full HD at 120fps allows for smooth slow-motion shots, enhancing creative video options.

Low-Light Capabilities

Thanks to the 1-inch sensor and fast f/1.8 aperture, the camera performs well in low-light conditions, capturing bright and noise-free images.

Dynamic Range and Color Science

The dynamic range is impressive, allowing creators to retain details in shadows and highlights. Sony’s color processing ensures natural skin tones, making it a great option for lifestyle and beauty vloggers.

The image and video quality improvements make this camera an excellent choice for professional-level content creation.

Audio Features and Microphone Performance

Audio quality is just as important as video when it comes to creating engaging content, and the Sony ZV-1 II significantly improves upon its predecessor in this area. The camera includes a three-capsule directional microphone, which automatically detects the direction of the sound source and adjusts accordingly. This makes it ideal for vloggers who frequently move while speaking or change their shooting angles.

One of the biggest advantages of this new microphone system is its ability to reduce background noise, ensuring clear voice recording even in noisy environments. Sony also includes a removable wind muff, which is particularly useful for outdoor recording. The windscreen helps minimize wind interference, making it easier to capture clear dialogue even in challenging conditions.

For those who require higher-quality audio, the camera also features a 3.5mm microphone input, allowing users to attach an external microphone. This provides greater flexibility for creators who want to use shotgun mics, lavalier mics, or wireless audio solutions.

The built-in microphone alone is a huge upgrade, but the ability to use external audio gear makes the ZV-1 II a powerful tool for professional-grade sound recording.

Connectivity and Streaming Capabilities

USB-C, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth Integration

The ZV-1 II is designed with modern content creators in mind, offering seamless connectivity options that make transferring files and streaming easier. The inclusion of a USB-C port allows for faster charging and data transfer, addressing one of the limitations of the original ZV-1, which used the older micro-USB standard.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support enable wireless file transfer to a smartphone or computer via the Sony Imaging Edge Mobile app. This is particularly useful for creators who need to quickly edit and upload videos on the go without the need for a laptop.

Live Streaming and Webcam Mode

One of the standout features of the ZV-1 II is its plug-and-play live streaming capabilities. When connected to a computer via USB-C, the camera functions as a high-quality webcam, eliminating the need for additional capture cards or software.

For streamers on YouTube, Twitch, and Zoom, this makes the ZV-1 II a convenient option for professional-looking live broadcasts. The built-in microphone enhancements further enhance streaming quality, ensuring clear audio without requiring additional accessories.

These connectivity features make the ZV-1 II highly adaptable, allowing for quick content creation and professional live streaming.

Battery Life and Charging Options

USB-C Charging

Battery life is an essential factor for vloggers and content creators, and the ZV-1 II maintains similar battery performance to its predecessor. The NP-BX1 rechargeable battery supports approximately 260 shots or 45 minutes of continuous video recording per charge. While this is sufficient for short sessions, those planning extended shoots may need spare batteries.

The inclusion of USB-C charging is a major advantage, allowing users to charge the camera while recording. This is particularly useful for long streaming sessions or time-lapse photography.

Power Bank Compatibility

Creators who film for extended periods can power the camera using an external power bank, ensuring uninterrupted shooting without worrying about battery depletion. This is a game-changer for travel vloggers and outdoor content creators who may not always have access to an outlet.

While battery life is adequate, the ability to charge on the go makes the ZV-1 II a practical and flexible option for extended use.

Sony ZV-1 II vs. Sony ZV-1: Key Differences

For those considering an upgrade from the original ZV-1, here’s a direct comparison highlighting the major improvements in the ZV-1 II:

Feature	Sony ZV-1 II	Sony ZV-1
Lens	18-50mm f/1.8-4.0	24-70mm f/1.8-2.8
Autofocus	AI-powered Real-Time Eye AF, Subject Tracking	Real-Time Eye AF
Built-in Microphone	Three-Capsule Directional Mic	Standard Mic
Stabilization	Active SteadyShot (Optical + Electronic)	Optical SteadyShot
Live Streaming Support	Yes (USB-C Webcam Mode)	No
Charging	USB-C Fast Charging	Micro-USB
Weight	292g	294g

While the original ZV-1 is still a solid choice, the ZV-1 II offers key improvements in lens versatility, audio quality, and live streaming support.

User Experience and Practical Applications

Vlogging and YouTube Content Creation

The wider 18mm lens is a game-changer for vloggers, allowing for better framing while keeping both the subject and background visible. The lightweight build, flip-out touchscreen, and AI-driven autofocus make recording effortless.

Travel and Outdoor Recording

The compact size and USB-C charging make it ideal for travel. The improved microphone ensures better outdoor audio capture, while the Active SteadyShot stabilization minimizes motion blur.

Product Reviews and Tutorials

The Product Showcase mode instantly shifts focus to objects in front of the camera, making it perfect for product reviews and tutorial videos.

Pros and Cons of the Sony ZV-1 II

Pros:

✔ Wider 18mm lens for better vlogging coverage
✔ AI-powered autofocus ensures sharp focus at all times
✔ Improved built-in microphone and wind muff
✔ USB-C fast charging and live streaming support
✔ Lightweight and compact design

Cons:

✖ No interchangeable lens option
✖ Battery life could be better for extended recording
✖ No headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring

Verdict on the Sony ZV-1 II

The Sony ZV-1 II builds upon the strengths of its predecessor while introducing key improvements that make it a top-tier choice for vloggers and content creators. With a wider lens, improved microphone, and better connectivity, it stands out as one of the best compact cameras for video creation.

For those new to vlogging cameras, this is an excellent investment, while existing ZV-1 users may find the upgrade worthwhile depending on their specific needs.