This article was automatically translated from Japanese using AI. The Japanese version is the authoritative version.
The word “Vlog” has become widely familiar, and it will likely keep spreading.
Riding that wave, I decided I wanted to try making Vlogs myself, so I made up my mind to buy a new camera.
One camera currently on the market built specifically for Vlogging is the
Sony VLOGCAM ZV-1
Panasonic DC-G100
.
Unlike a handheld camcorder, it is relatively compact and can be shot with one hand, and it makes it easy to capture advanced footage such as beautifully blurred backgrounds.
The two cameras listed above are in almost the same price range, and both have more than enough features for Vlogging.
Precisely for that reason, it is really hard to decide which one to buy.
So let me compare the two and list their strengths and weaknesses.
Sony VLOGCAM ZV-1
Strong points
・A variety of video modes (you can switch instantly between product reviews, scenery, faces, etc.)
・Light (about 294 g)
・Two color options (the white one is cute…)
・Plenty of controls on the tripod grip
・Comes with a fluffy mic windscreen
・Wide zoom range
・Connects to the tripod without a cable, and the tripod buttons work
・Simple to operate
Weak points
・Still photography isn’t the focus, so I wouldn’t expect much there
・No viewfinder
・Apparently it can overheat and shut down
Panasonic DC-G100
Strong points
・It’s a mirrorless camera, so you can swap lenses
・Solid photo features too (a good pick even for someone just getting into photography)
・The microphone is amazing!
・The screen is beautiful!
・The edge of the screen turns red while recording, so it’s easy to tell you’re rolling
・It has a viewfinder
Weak points
・Heavier than the Sony
・The kit lens barely zooms
・There’s a cable between the tripod and the camera
What defines the Sony VLOGCAM ZV-1:
it’s easy to operate, so anyone can start Vlogging!
A camera built purely for Vlogging!
What defines the Panasonic DC-G100:
an outstanding microphone for serious video work,
plus more than enough photo capability
What both cameras share is a full set of Vlogging features: image stabilization, eye autofocus, smartphone connectivity, 4K recording, and so on.
Both were designed for people shooting Vlogs, so I don’t think you’d regret either choice.
It really comes down to what extra capabilities you’re after.
If you’re committed to Vlogging, or your Vlogs center on people, Sony’s VLOGCAM is a very strong choice.
If you want to shoot stills as well as video, I’d go with Panasonic’s G100.
That said, I normally shoot photos with a DSLR, and it’s a Canon, so the lenses aren’t compatible.
That means with the Panasonic I’d have to buy new lenses whenever I wanted a different angle of view…
How far can I really push the Panasonic’s photo features?
That feels like it will be my deciding factor.
Depending on how it goes, I might just switch from Canon to Panasonic… haha
After that, all that’s left is to see and handle them in person at the store and go with my gut!
I hope this is helpful to you all.