NIUSGEEK tests ZV-1F, a Sony camcorder

Sony is usually the benchmark when it comes to video recording, and its “pocket” ZV line – the one that brought us the ZV-E10 and ZV-1 – has managed to raise the bar for portability, recording quality, and headroom for post-production. . With the new ZV-1F camera, the Japanese firm is trying to get our attention back, but should we bet on something more reliable? This is the opinion of NIUSGEEK.

Sony ZV-1F: Specifications

Sony ZV-1F: This is what you need to know about the equipment

Compact body. Sony gave me a test ZV-1F to cover MWC 2023 in Barcelona, ​​taking advantage of its compact size and hassle-free recording capabilities. In fact, my participation in this special edition, which we prepared with Alberto Nishiyama, was recorded with this team, as opposed to the monstrous – and beautiful – A7R V kit that I brought to CES 2023.

This is a small device, with a minimalistic front and buttons for direct access to various functions, like all Sony lines. In addition, we have a swivel screen and inputs for USB-C, HDMI and a microphone port. Common in the ZV saga.

Differences from ZV-1. If we pit her against her “big brother”, we have some differences. To go in order, we keep the 1″ BSI-CMOS sensor, the 3″ swivel screen and the same light sensitivity. The label area for photos and videos, as well as the functional keyboard, are identical.

Focusing on different things, in this case the 20mm focal length is 4 less than the SG-1 for a slightly wider frame. However, we have a fixed digital zoom lens, as opposed to the 24-70 range that the ZV-1 works with, and with that it works from f/1.8 to f/2.8; while the ZV-1F sticks to f2 for its zoom range.

Compared to a more expensive model, this variable 1F loses to optical stabilization, six burst shots – 16 vs. 24 on the ZV-1 -, recording at 960 fps in FullHD video – we are left with 120 fps – hybrid AF detection modes, since we have only detection by contrast. Oh, and we don’t have RAW photos, only JPEGs.

What are we winning? Lighter hardware, more efficient autonomy, next generation USB-C, better focal length and up to 110 extra focus points. In particular, we traded the flexibility of use for something more user-friendly.

My user experience. I don’t want to sweeten the pill on a product that, compared to its “more mature” version, limits some of the functionality of the hardware. The first problem I want to share is the focus problem and this has happened to me a few times. Because it uses a contrast detection system – it’s inherently slow – moving footage tends to lose detail. If you look at the recording, even I went out of focus a few times.

However, we get a flat image when the lens manages to detect us. “Product Mode” seamlessly integrates into the system, although I’ve used it very little for this coverage. I find the ZV-1 hybrid system more robust and reliable than the built-in ZV-1F.

What’s killing me is that it doesn’t have a built-in ND filter that kills anyone who manually adjusts the video, as in my case. As a general rule, I tend to use 1/60 on the cameras I use as I record at 30 frames per second. To compensate for light, I use ND filters. In this case, since we have a fixed lens, we cannot turn it on and it is impossible to set up recording at such a speed without overexposure. Out of respect for this rule, I enlarged the images and sacrificed recording moments.

Is the Sony ZV-1F worth it?

It depends where you are from. IF you have a mid-range phone and are interested in picture jumping, go for it and use a wireless microphone system to enhance your sound – the Maono WM820/821 can be a great option for a low price. If you’re using an iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Pixel, or any other high-end smartphone, forget it. This is not a camera that you use as a priority, but as a companion for higher quality video from a mid-range or premium smartphone. If I had ZV-1F and ZV-1 on my desk, I would choose the latter without hesitation.

Mind you, this is not a bad camera. It’s a cross between a GoPro/Insta360/Action Cam and Sony’s handheld product, which can have distinct advantages, taking advantage of handheld commands, “product mode”, 4K recording, webcam PC docking, and more. . I’d scrape together a little more money and go for the ZV-1 or, if you’re looking for something with interchangeable lenses, the ZV-E10.