I was cross-shopping the Sony...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·John
I was cross-shopping the Sony ZV-E1 to the Sony FX3 and FX30. I came from (and still own) the Sony A7iii. My use cases are YouTube videos and cinematic car videos. \n\nOverall great features of the ZV-E1 for a solo content creator include:\n– 10-bit 4:2:2 color with a beautiful S-cinetone profile built in. The camera is capable of 4k 120p with a crop (I typically shoot talking head videos in 4K at 24 frames)\n– The Sony ZV-E1 is lightweight and easy to rig. \n– Handheld shots are a breeze and the camera has both built-in 5-axis image stabilization and digital stabilization. \n– It has passable scratch audio directly from the camera if needed in a pinch (I attached a shotgun mic for now). \n– There is a 100% fully articulating and high-quality LCD touch screen. It's easy to dial in white balance, ISO/exposure, autofocus area, examine zebras all while facing you. It sounds silly but this feature alone made me excited to us it for video over my A7iii. \n– Industry-best autofocus with multiple modes allowing you to intelligently track human faces, animals, cars, trains, and the like. \n\nThe reason why I chose the ZV-E1 over the FX3, FX30, my iPhone, my Sony A7iii: \n\n1. The overheating downside seems very overblown. My camera hasn't overheated since ownership. Yes, I record long-length recordings in a studio environment but also outdoors in normal weather conditions. I don't use an external fan. \n\n2. The ZV-E1 has the same **full-frame sensor** and similar image to the Sony FX3 at half the price. The FX30, while also a similar bargin, is an APS-C camera with a crop. I already owned full-frame lenses I felt comfortable using and wanted the advantage of improved low-light capabilities. \n\n3. Better auto-focus than the FX3\n\n4. I don't shoot weddings or client work, so having 1 SD slot is not a deal breaker. However, ZV-E1 creators can attach an external monitor that can record RAW independently as a backup recording. \n\nThe camera's downsides: \n– There is no fan, only 1 SD card slot, 4k120 is at a crop (if that matters to you), and the max recording times are about 30 minutes less than the FX3 or A7SIII. \n– No RAW video file built in. You have SLOG, HGL2/3, S-Cinetone or the opportunity to film RAW with an external monitor. \n– There is no external viewfinder like my A7iii so taking still photos is not ideal (I use the A7iii for photos). \n– The naming system can confuse some into thinking it's the lower-end ZV-1 or ZV-E10 II and downplaying how much of a beast it is. \n\nFor the price of the FX3, I was able to snag both the ZV-E1 and this high-quality Sony 16-35 GM II lens. \n\nI've read some reviews on the FX30, and people said the FX30 looks more professional. I don't need a grey camera body or the words Cine Line to be professional. Then again, my use case for filming video is purely web-based, so should I really take offense for being a knowledgeable casual? I think there are a lot of casuals out there who want stellar video content and kid themselves into buying more camera power than they need. \n\nI use this camera as an A-cam, but I think it would be great as a B-cam for professionals who already rock an FX3. If you're in my boat and you do YouTube or social media content, the quality of the ZV-E1 beats any cellphone or entry-level camera.
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Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Carl
IPhone video is awesome. Moving to a p&s or aps-c camera didn't really make enough of a difference. This is just right to be worth the move. \r\n \r\nThis isn't for film makers on a big budget. This is for creatives and folks that want full frame investment and quality in an easy to use package that CAN do 4k in low light that is pro-quality. \r\n \r\nWith this, I can start buying quality full frame lenses and use them now and later for top quality video. I can record in 4k and zoom the final for my edits. \r\n \r\nAnd, I have. \r\n \r\nJust a week with the camera, and it's stunning. It's an FX3 sensor with all the cool AI stuff that a solo creator needs. And half the price! \r\n \r\nI shot in dynamic stabilization in a karaoke room on cinelog and the results were absolutely pro-level - all handheld on auto mode. (I shot a lot of video. Not all was great but the more I figured out how it worked, the better I got... cinelog looks amazing-enough and it's wysiwyg) \r\n \r\nFrankly. If you've ever wanted to go full frame and you have the budget and you work "alone" a lot - this is amazing! \r\n \r\nI've seen a lot of concern on heat. No issues here on 85f evenings. And if you are shooting in direct sunlight - who's gonna want to watch that anyway? Really... anyhow. At night and sunset, it's flawless. Indoors, too. I did try 60fps 10-bit but the file sizes are insane. That stopped soon after I realized I'd need a bigger hard drive to store All of that mess... Using this camera for "real projects" vs a stress test - it's awesome. \r\n \r\nI've also played with sLog and that looks fun. Someday. But, it's there as I learn. And meanwhile, this shoots amazing crisp autofocus shots with beautiful blurred backgrounds with handheld dynamic stabilization. \r\n \r\nThis also has the latest, cool "stuff" and it's full frame. Do it. With a good lens. Highly recommend the Sony 20mm f1.8 as the first lens for it.
See moreSee lessFrom the moment I unboxed...
Reviewed on www.onbuy.com·C. Makosso
From the moment I unboxed it, the quality was obvious. The camera feels premium in hand\u2014solid, well-built, and clearly designed with attention to detail. It\u2019s not just about looks either; the performance is absolutely incredible. The image quality is sharp, vibrant, and professional-looking, even in low-light conditions. Whether I\u2019m taking photos during the day or filming at night, the results are consistently impressive.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\nWhat really surprised me is how easy it is to use. The interface is intuitive, and I didn\u2019t need to spend hours figuring things out. Within minutes, I was already capturing amazing shots. At the same time, it still offers advanced features for when I want to get more creative, which makes it perfect for both beginners and more experienced users.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\nAnother big plus is the value for money. For the price I paid, I genuinely feel like I got something much more expensive. It exceeded my expectations in every way\u2014performance, design, and reliability.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\nOn top of that, the whole ordering experience was smooth and fast. Delivery was quick, and everything arrived in perfect condition.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\nOverall, this is easily one of the best purchases I\u2019ve made. If you\u2019re thinking about getting a camera, I 100% recommend this one\u2014you won\u2019t regret it.G
See moreSee lessFrom the moment I unboxed...
Reviewed on www.onbuy.com·C. Makosso
From the moment I unboxed it, the quality was obvious. The camera feels premium in hand—solid, well-built, and clearly designed with attention to detail. It’s not just about looks either; the performance is absolutely incredible. The image quality is sharp, vibrant, and professional-looking, even in low-light conditions. Whether I’m taking photos during the day or filming at night, the results are consistently impressive.
What really surprised me is how easy it is to use. The interface is intuitive, and I didn’t need to spend hours figuring things out. Within minutes, I was already capturing amazing shots. At the same time, it still offers advanced features for when I want to get more creative, which makes it perfect for both beginners and more experienced users.
Another big plus is the value for money. For the price I paid, I genuinely feel like I got something much more expensive. It exceeded my expectations in every way—performance, design, and reliability.
On top of that, the whole ordering experience was smooth and fast. Delivery was quick, and everything arrived in perfect condition.
Overall, this is easily one of the best purchases I’ve made. If you’re thinking about getting a camera, I 100% recommend this one—you won’t regret it.G
See moreSee lessFinding the perfect camera for...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Raymond
Finding the perfect camera for gimbal and handheld video has always been a challenge. As a pro who deals with highly diverse projects that require great flexibility along with amazing quality right out of the camera, I am thrilled with the results I have realized with the ZV-E1. Having said that, I think the combination of the body with Sony's G Master lenses has made the difference between good and great shots. Those who use gimbals regularly know that a zoom lens is really not practical on the gimbal; with Sony's clear zoom and a prime G Master lens the results are amazing. For me, the Sony G Master 24 mm prime and the Sony G master 35 mm are all I've needed for the results I want. While I have experienced a few overheating issues, the type of content I shoot with this camera allows for a cool down time, and while it may be annoying, it hasn't caused any production issues for me. The stabilization and auto focus are exceptional; my handheld content looks as stable as what I shoot on the gimbal. It's not the answer for every type of filming situation I produce, but for what I need this for, it's ideal. It's always the same - the right tool for the right job, and it will be the right tool for many applications in my studio.
See moreSee lessDO NOT believe any of...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Kammerin
DO NOT believe any of the less than 5 star reviews! I have been making films for 15 years and this is Sony's best camera EVER. They put one of their BEST full-frame sensors into a camera that can fit into your POCKET, loaded with all the bells and whistles to make your footage look amazing with very little effort. You can't give this thing less than 5 stars, you just can't. We live in a such a spoiled and entitled culture that when one small thing isn't perfect, we complain about it. Meanwhile, the companies are putting enough technology in your hand to film a FEATURE FILM and someone has the audacity to complain? This camera produces the image you expect from Sony, incredible specs like 4K 120fps, 4K 60fps, 10bit 422, 8bit 422 and the list goes on. Cinetone picture profile with variations, excellent audio capture, fast autofocus. I mean what the heck else do you need? Please don't scroll past my review to read the negative reviews. If you're like me and you know that lighting and shot composition are the backbone (and most important part of film making) to a good shoot then this camera is the one for you because Sony dumped all the sauce into this thing.
See moreSee lessAmazing features within a compact size
Reviewed on www.elgiganten.dk·Hatman25
I primarily shoot social media videos and wanted something video focused (I use a7iii) for photos. This camera is EXCELLENT. 10 bit 4:2:2 4k. Stunning low light capabilities, full frame, outstanding autofocus. I am actually using a lot of APSC lenses with the dynamic active stabilisation which crops out the vignetting. The quality of colours are exactly what you would expect straight out of camera. Dynamic active stabilisation is almost gimbal like and I really have not used my gimbal much. This camera is a winner and able to cope with even my professional work. Now just need a super wide (affordable) FE lens. \r\n\r\nI have had no overheating issues at all. I film in short bursts of max 10-15minutes. 120p capable with update. Excellent battery life. The new AI chip is outstanding for autofocus. The list goes on and on. \r\n\r\nI prefer touch screen for my settings and can use the single wheel on multiple settings by touching (e.g. switching between iso, aperture, shutter).
See moreSee lessSo, let's get the negative...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Michael
So, let's get the negative out of the way - it WILL overheat in hot weather at 4K60... This can be mitigated to some extent with an aftermarket fan, but it's still gonna overheat at some point. If you're shooting outside in the summer heat - this may not be for you.\nI primarily shoot real estate or in shorter clips, so this isn't an issue (usually).\nThe upshot - incredible dynamic range in Slog3. My stills cam is an A7iii and the range on this zv-e1 makes it look archaic. I've even used some image grabs from the zv-e1 that worked better that what I got out of a single exposure from the A7iii. I can shoot a house that's backlit by the sun and get very usable exposure across the frame -crazy. Inside, I can shoot in any lighting with the dual native iso at 12800 and get a bright room AND still preserve detail out of the windows.\nPlus, dynamic stabilization, amazing autofocus, and breathing comp - yay! - the 20mm becomes a great video lens!\n\nAmazing at this price.
See moreSee lessI'm very happy with this...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Amruth
I'm very happy with this camera. The footage is excellent and it's a great step up from my smartphone in being able to produce content in the exact way I'd like. \n\n\nOverall, the Sony ecosystem for lenses and accessories is excellent, so I was able to pick up used / third party lenses for this camera at great prices. \n\nI like how light and compact this camera is. It's so tiny I can easily fit it into my pocket with the kit lens. Even with a cage and stuff attached it's not very big. \n\n\nThe only improvement I'd like to see is more options for USB / wifi streaming. It's a vlogger focused camera, this should be basically the highest priority in the design of this camera - and it's fine, but not *amazing*. The app (sony creators) has some limited functionality in offloading video to your smartphone, but I'd like to see it become more reliable and easy to use.
See moreSee lessI just really love the...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·K
I just really love the small form factor and high end video quality, I'm especially grateful when I need to crank the ISO past 12,800. Slog3 is so good in 10-bit 4:2:2. 4K60 with dynamic stabilization gives me buttery smooth videos. I pair mine with the 20mm f/1.8, it stays on there for weeks at a time. Is it perfect for everything? No. I wish I had dual slots, better weather sealing, better heat dissipation, etc. But for what it's worth, over the past 3 months mine has never corrupted a file, never had dust ingress, and no overheating. Admittedly, I take care of my gear and only shoot short clips, so your mileage may vary. I'm glad I chose this one, good luck with your search.
See moreSee lessFantastic little camera packed with latest tech
Reviewed on www.elgiganten.dk·Makhlari
I bought this camera to fill a gap. I needed a full-frame second body to my FX6 and a camera to do high-quality vlogs with. This camera fitted the brief perfectly. Everything, except one issue, is better than expected. It allows me to shoot high-quality 4K with advanced codecs, or shoot with log or or S-Cinetone mode. One issue: Overheating! If you plan to roll the camera for long takes (over 30 to 40 mins) then you'll need a fan or rather one of Sony's other models. For normal use, it's a wonder of technology! It would have been nice to have a second card slot though and those strap handles are a bit clunky...
See moreSee lessA new way of doing things
Reviewed on www.elgiganten.dk·Ryland
I will not be sing this camera for V-Logging, but as b camera alongside my FX6. The compact nature of the ZV-E1 and its improved stabilisation methods has enabled b roll shots to be taken frequently without the need of a gimbal. However I do find that it is better to turn the stabilisation off if panning slowly otherwise there can be a slight jerkiness as the stabilisation algorithm attempts to do what it is designed to do ie. stabilise, for such shots I would recommend the use of either a tripod or gimbal. The 4K HS codec is efficient and the recorded image provides excellent compatibility with my FX6.
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Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Carl
I wrote a review a few days ago that there aren't any heat issues. Finally had one. I was 30 mins into filming 3 mins clips at 4k 30fps 10 bit and it overheated and shut down. \r\n \r\nI waited a minute and it was all good and asked if I wanted it used "higher temps" before thermal shutdown. Ok. Dunno if that will help. \r\n \r\nI still think, even with that, it's a phenomenal camera. I'm not a pro and just watching some how to's, the results are world class. \r\n \r\nAs I mentioned. If it's in the budget, this is a really great camera to learn and produce amazing content.
See moreSee lessFantastic and fun video-centric camera...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Jay
Fantastic and fun video-centric camera I purchased to augment my Sony a7RV. Really wanted the great FX3 sensor without the added cost and pro features of that camera that I don’t need for shooting on-the-go. This is a great run-and-gun camera with the ability to shoot pro-level quality, and the A.I. features make it very appealing for solo shooters. No overheating issues here but I’m shooting in segments, not long stretches. Paired with a cage, this has become for me a nicely compact and killer mini cinema-like camera.
See moreSee lessIncredible camera - essentially the...
Reviewed on www.walmart.ca·HeroVibes
Incredible camera - essentially the FX3 on a budget. Quality is incredible, 120fps in 4K and 240fps in 1080p is great. The only issue I've found is that the UI has a bit of a learning curve, and there are some overheating issues when recording for 30+ minutes in 4K. Not a huge deal for us as those sessions are few are far between, but might be worth addressing if you're shooting podcasts and such.
See moreSee lessBeing a longtime Nikon user,...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Steve
Being a longtime Nikon user, I started to "dip my toe" in the waters of Sony video. After much reading, I decided to purchase the ZV-e1 and I couldn't be more pleased. Like any new tool, daily practice will help you get familiar with the menu and working methods (learning S-Log Cine 3 format) of the device. As always, B&H carefully packaged my purchase and the delivery was on time!
See moreSee lessGreat Camera so love it got another one
Reviewed on www.elgiganten.dk·Drey2005
I use to have a7c a6700 and a7 III cameras then bought this one zv-e1 and feel in love. Great small camera for creativity a lot of features in small compact size! Switch between photo / video / s&q I though would not be a good solution but its ok. Most buttons customisable. Only missing aperture dial but paired with lens with aperture then problem resolved.
See moreSee lessGreat camera, beautiful photo and...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Nico
Great camera, beautiful photo and video, the low megapixel count for photography really hasn't affected me all that much when doing professional work, \r\n \r\nI think this camera is going to get Netflix approved as well, I looked through the specifications and it looks like it checks all the boxes, \r\n \r\nAll in all I can't recommend the camera enough!
See moreSee lessIf you can A1ii x...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Kevin
If you can\nA1ii x 28-70 F/2 gm\nZVE1 x 24-70 gm ii\nSwap in between them, rig up and down. ZVE1 is like a baby A1\nAdd a fan with some thermal film. Have a another powerful focused hand held fan. Swap between. Save your sensor, run and gun. Stay ultra cool. \nâA7Cii is the baby A1!â Get a A7iii for stills. This is the one you want for video
See moreSee lessThis is a MUST camera for Content Creators
Reviewed on www.elgiganten.dk·Anonymous
Where do I start, amazing auto-focus, amazing dynamic range, amazing menu and button layout, amazing colour range, amazing sharpness, amazing portability, amazing connectivity, amazing support and the list goes on and on and on.\r\nThis is coming from someone who is a videographer, content creator and a tv director for over 14 years
See moreSee lessOut of the box great...
Reviewed on www.walmart.ca·mphriv
Out of the box great video image, ISO 800 and I'm away, very very good in low light, bought the 35mm and 20mm and 15-35mm on order, I only shoot video. up to 30 secs, nature, landscape and seascape, I filmed some Yew trees and they were beautiful, I've only just started and it seems easy to set up, lots to do just love it.
See moreSee lessFantastic Camera on both Video and Photographs!
Reviewed on www.elgiganten.dk·1Daniel07
Having now used over two weeks, the results are absolutely amazing. Granted you have to get the settings and menus set-up, (this can be done via YouTube), but then!!! fantastic clear, sharp productions that are breath taking! So pleased that I took this step from a ZV-1 to this full frame sensor camera.
See moreSee lessEveryone into Sony E mounts...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Dmitri
Everyone into Sony E mounts and with the means should own one. It's an A7Siii in a point and shoot body. It takes incredible video and does a terrific job as a quick photo camera that uses any of the best Sony lenses, or throw a 24mm 2.8 G on it and into your pocket. Don't sleep on this one!
See moreSee lessContent Creation Beast
Reviewed on www.mediamarkt.at·Hassan Shaikh
Super happy to pick ZV-E1, it's amazingly good in Film Making and one of the best camera for content creation. I'm also using it to take photos for my social media and ZV-E1 is performing like a charm. It's an ultimate beast in low light. I'm enjoying using it so far.
See moreSee lessThis is an awesome camera...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Tyler
This is an awesome camera for video and vlogging! It shoots crispy footage and is very lightweight. Perfect for someone who wants to vlog but also has the specs to do well in most video situations.
See moreSee lessI love this camera. I...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Deborah
I love this camera. I have specific requirement and this meets them. I like how specialized it is for videography but I would not recommend purchasing it for any other purpose.
See moreSee lessGot this as a B-cam...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Joel
Got this as a B-cam for our FX3 since it has basically the same sensor and specs, but cheaper. It feels significantly lighter, especially paired with a sigma 16-28 contemporary lens.
See moreSee lessDoes exactly what it says...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Thomas
Does exactly what it says it does. Good for vlog and content creation. Few drawbacks but comes with the territory of the nature of content creation
See moreSee lessactually the camera is very fast
Reviewed on www.business.walmart.com·jrazer
actually the camera is very fast I love it a lot and the video is spectacular and good photo
See moreSee lessThis camera is a beast...
Reviewed on www.bhphotovideo.com·Glorious
This camera is a beast everywhere. Lightweight and professional image
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