The latest APS-C camera from Sony has arrived! But is it really as good as they say? Let’s find out in this Sony ZV-E10 II review!
As a professional photographer and videographer, I’m excited to share my honest opinion based on my experiences. My work involves both photography and filming, making it crucial for me to have the right equipment for both tasks. While the Sony A7 III is my main camera, check out that review as well, I’ve noticed its limitations when recording longer videos. This is why I was particularly eager to try out this new Sony ZV-E10 II and share my thoughts with you.
Although the Sony ZV-E10 II is primarily targeted at vloggers, I use it as a second camera to bring even more professionalism to my wedding videos and online courses. In this review, I frequently compare my full-frame Sony A7 III with the new Sony ZV-E10 II, highlighting the pros and cons from the perspective of my experience. Lets start!
Advantages of the Sony ZV-E10 II
- Compact and Lightweight:
The Sony ZV-E10 II is a mirrorless camera that weighs just 377 grams. This makes it an excellent choice for those who travel frequently and work on location, like I do. Its light and compact design is a major advantage. Also, the flipscreen is such a lifesaver! The A7 III doesn’t have it and is one of my biggest annoyances while filming. - Extended Recording Time:
Unlike the Sony A7 III, which is limited to 30-minute recordings, the ZV-E10 II allows for unlimited filming time. This gives me much more freedom on set. Do keep in mind that the battery life and SD card size are also factors. - Incredible sensor:
What many people may not know is that the sensor of the Sony ZV-E10 II is exactly the same as that of the Sony FX30, a professional film camera priced at €2,299. - User-Friendly:
Sony has developed a camera that appeals to both beginners and professionals. For vloggers, there are numerous automatic settings like ISO and aperture. You can also choose styles and soften skin tones with specific settings. The focus points and sharpness are tailored for people, animals, and even birds. Additionally, there’s a built-in microphone that captures excellent audio from different angles. And don’t forget the hotshoe on top of the camera, which allows you to add extra accessories, like a microphone or lamp. All of this gives your video a professional look without requiring much effort on your part. - Powerful Video and Image Quality:
The camera can shoot in 4K at 60fps, while the more expensive Sony A7 III only supports 24fps. Additionally, the ZV-E10 II features impressive image stabilization, ensuring smooth footage even in challenging conditions. - Accessory Compatibility:
If you already own a Sony camera, like the A7 III, you’ll be pleased to know that the ZV-E10 II uses the same NP-FZ100 battery. This makes it easy to use both cameras within the same setup. - Excellent Lens Options:
A valuable addition to my setup is the Sigma 23mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Sony lens. This wide-angle prime lens performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions and tight spaces. The fast autofocus makes this lens a must-have for anyone looking to capture high-quality footage. Additionally, it’s a great asset for my A7 III; despite being designed for smaller sensors, the vignetting is hardly noticeable and easy to remove in the edit.
Disadvantages and Limitations
- No 120fps:
The camera lacks 120fps for slow-motion recording, which is a missed opportunity for videographers like me who often use slow-motion effects. However, the 60fps option is still a valuable feature. - Fewer customization buttons:
I miss the extra customization buttons that the A7 III has, and the usability for photography is less efficient. - The APS-C sensor:
A slight disadvantage is the crop sensor, which brings down things like image quality and depth of field. For me this matters less, because I will use this camera as a second. But if you are searching for an upgrade from the ZV-E10 II, you can check out the ZV-E1 which is a bit higher in price but includes a full-frame sensor.
Conclusion
For me, the Sony ZV-E10 II is a great addition to my filming setup. And I’d say it’s an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals looking for a compact yet powerful video camera. Whether you’re a vlogger or a professional videographer like me, the Sony ZV-E10 II is a valuable addition to any setup.
