Canon G7X Mark III vs Sony ZV-1: Which One Should You Buy?

In the world of compact cameras tailored for content creation, the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III and Sony ZV-1 stand out as formidable contenders, each bringing a unique set of features and capabilities.

If you’re a vlogger, a travel enthusiast, or someone passionate about high-quality imaging, the choice between these two cameras can significantly impact your creative journey.

Let’s delve into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Comparison Table Of Canon G7X Mark III vs Sony ZV-1

Feature	Canon G7X Mark III	Sony ZV-1
Design and Build	Compact, Dimensions: 105.5 x 60.9 x 41.4 mm; Weight: 304 g (with battery and card)	Compact, Dimensions: 105.5 x 60.0 x 43.5 mm; Weight: 294 g (with battery and card)
Imaging Capabilities	1.0-inch Stacked CMOS Sensor, 20.1MP, DIGIC 8 Processor	1.0-inch Exmor RS CMOS Sensor, 20.1MP, BIONZ X Processor
Lens and Zoom	4.2x Optical Zoom, Focal Length: 24-100mm, Aperture: f/1.8 (W) – f/2.8 (T)	2.7x Optical Zoom, Focal Length: 24-70mm, Aperture: f/1.8 (W) – f/2.8 (T)
Video Recording	4K UHD at 30p, Full HD at 120p, Various Shooting Modes	4K UHD at 30p, Full HD at 120p, HLG for HDR Recording
Audio Capabilities	Built-in Stereo Microphone, External Microphone Input (3.5mm)	Built-in 3-Capsule Directional Microphone, External Microphone Input (3.5mm)
Display	3.0-inch Tilt-type touch-screen LCD (1.04M Dots)	3.0-inch Vari-angle touch-screen LCD (921,600 Dots)
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, and microphone input	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, and microphone input
Additional Features	20 fps in RAW Burst Mode, Built-in ND Filter, Pop-up Flash	Product Showcase Setting, Background Defocus, Face Priority AE
Battery	NB-13L Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery	NP-BX1 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery
Dimensions and Weight	105.5 x 60.9 x 41.4 mm, 304 g (with battery and card)	105.5 x 60.0 x 43.5 mm, 294 g (with battery and card)
Price	Check Price On Amazon	Check Price On Amazon

Canon G7X Mark III

Design and Build

1. Physical dimensions and weight

The Canon G7X Mark III boasts a compact design with dimensions of approximately 105.5 x 60.9 x 41.4 mm. It weighs in at approximately 304 g (including the battery and memory card), making it a portable and lightweight companion for on-the-go shooting.

2. Build quality and materials used

Crafted with attention to detail, the G7X Mark III exhibits a robust build quality. The choice of materials ensures durability while maintaining a sleek and modern aesthetic, making it suitable for various shooting environments.

Imaging Capabilities

1. Sensor size and resolution

The G7X Mark III features a 1.0-inch stacked CMOS sensor with an impressive resolution of approximately 20.1 megapixels. This sensor size contributes to enhanced image quality and performance in low-light conditions.

2. Image processor and performance:

Powered by the DIGIC 8 Image Processor, the camera delivers efficient and speedy image processing. This combination of sensor and processor allows for sharp, high-resolution images with minimal noise.

Lens and Zoom

1. Focal length range

The lens offers a versatile focal length range of 8.8–36.8mm (35mm film equivalent: 24–100mm), providing flexibility for a wide range of shooting scenarios.

2. Aperture range

With a maximum aperture of f/1.8 (W)–f/2.8 (T), the G7X Mark III excels at capturing detailed and well-lit shots, especially in low-light conditions.

Video Recording

1. Resolutions and frame rates

The camera supports 4K UHD video recording at 30p and Full HD 1080p video recording at 120p, ensuring high-quality video output for a variety of creative projects.

2. Video features and capabilities

Offering a range of shooting modes, including hybrid auto, creative shot, and various scene modes, the G7X Mark III is equipped for diverse video recording needs.

Audio Capabilities

1. Built-in microphone

The camera features a built-in stereo microphone, capturing clear and immersive audio to complement its high-quality video capabilities.

2. External microphone support

Recognizing the importance of audio in video production, the G7X Mark III includes a 3.5mm microphone input, allowing users to connect external microphones for enhanced audio recording.

Display

1. Type and size

The camera is equipped with a 3.0-inch tilt-type touchscreen LCD, offering a resolution of approximately 1.04 million dots.

2. Touchscreen functionality

The touchscreen functionality enhances the user experience, providing intuitive control over settings and facilitating easy navigation through menus.

Connectivity

1. Wireless features (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)

The Canon G7X Mark III incorporates Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless wireless sharing of images and remote camera control through compatible devices.

2. Ports and compatibility

The camera features USB and HDMI ports, ensuring compatibility with various accessories and facilitating data transfer.

Sony ZV-1

Design and Build

1. Physical dimensions and weight

The Sony ZV-1 exhibits a compact design with dimensions of approximately 105.5 x 60.0 x 43.5 mm, and it weighs approximately 294 g (including the battery and memory card), offering excellent portability for content creators.

2. Build quality and materials used

Sony’s commitment to quality is evident in the ZV-1’s build. The camera is crafted with durable materials, providing a solid feel while maintaining a lightweight and ergonomic design.

Imaging Capabilities

1. Sensor size and resolution

The ZV-1 features a 1.0-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor with a resolution of approximately 20.1 megapixels, delivering impressive image quality and sensitivity.

2. Image processor and performance

Powered by the BIONZ X Image Processor, the camera ensures fast and efficient image processing, resulting in sharp and detailed photos with reduced noise.

Lens and Zoom

1. Focal length range

The ZV-1 comes with a 2.7x optical zoom and a focal length range equivalent to 24-70mm, providing versatility for various shooting situations.

2. Aperture range

With a maximum aperture of f/1.8 (W)–f/2.8 (T), the camera excels at capturing well-lit and detailed shots, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Video Recording

1. Resolutions and frame rates

Supporting 4K UHD video recording at 30p and Full HD 1080p video recording at 120p, the ZV-1 delivers high-quality video output for professional and creative applications.

2. Video features and capabilities

The camera introduces innovative features such as HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) for HDR recording, slow and quick motion, and a dedicated Movie Mode, enhancing its video recording capabilities.

Audio Capabilities

1. Built-in microphone

The ZV-1 incorporates a built-in 3-capsule directional microphone, ensuring clear and directional audio capture for an immersive viewing experience.

2. External microphone support

Recognizing the importance of audio, especially in vlogging, the ZV-1 includes a 3.5mm microphone input jack for connecting external microphones.

Display

1. Type and size

The camera features a 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD with a resolution of approximately 921,600 dots, providing flexibility for framing shots, especially in selfie mode.

2. Touchscreen functionality

The vari-angle touchscreen enhances user interaction, allowing for easy navigation through menus and providing quick access to settings.

Connectivity

1. Wireless features (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)

The ZV-1 offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless wireless sharing of images and remote control via compatible devices.

2. Ports and compatibility

Equipped with USB and HDMI ports, the ZV-1 ensures compatibility with various accessories and facilitates data transfer for a streamlined workflow.

Head-to-Head Comparison Of Canon G7X Mark III vs Sony ZV-1

Let’s dive into a head-to-head comparison to help you choose the perfect companion for your creative journey.

Design and build

Canon G7X Mark III

The G7X Mark III boasts a sleek and compact design, making it highly portable for on-the-go shooting. Its physical dimensions of approximately 105.5 x 60.9 x 41.4 mm and weight of 304 g (including battery and memory card) make it a versatile companion.

Sony ZV-1

The ZV-1, too, embraces a compact design, with dimensions of about 105.5 x 60.0 x 43.5 mm and a weight of approximately 294 g (including battery and memory card). Sony’s attention to ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and lightweight camera for extended shooting sessions.

Verdict: Both cameras offer excellent portability, and the choice between them in terms of design and build comes down to your personal preference regarding specific dimensions and weight.

Imaging Capabilities

Canon G7X Mark III:

Equipped with a 1.0-inch stacked CMOS sensor and the DIGIC 8 Image Processor, the G7X Mark III delivers impressive image quality with a resolution of approximately 20.1 megapixels. The combination of sensor and processor excels in low-light conditions.

Sony ZV-1

Featuring a 1.0-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor and the BIONZ X Image Processor, the ZV-1 matches the G7X Mark III with approximately 20.1 megapixels. Sony’s sensor and processor combination ensures sharp and detailed images.

Verdict: Both cameras offer similar imaging capabilities, with high-resolution sensors and advanced processors that excel at capturing detailed and vibrant images.

Lens and Zoom

Canon G7X Mark III

The G7X Mark III features a versatile 4.2x optical zoom with a focal length range of 8.8–36.8mm (35mm film equivalent: 24–100mm). The maximum aperture of f/1.8 (W)–f/2.8 (T) ensures excellent low-light performance.

Sony ZV-1

The ZV-1 comes with a 2.7x optical zoom and a focal length range equivalent to 24-70mm. Its maximum aperture of f/1.8 (W)–f/2.8 (T) also provides great low-light capabilities.

Verdict: Canon has a longer zoom range, which is advantageous for capturing distant subjects. However, Sony’s wider aperture at the telephoto appeals to those prioritizing low-light performance.

Video Recording

Canon G7X Mark III

The G7X Mark III supports 4K UHD video recording at 30p and Full HD 1080p at 120p. It offers various shooting modes, making it a versatile tool for video content creators.

Sony ZV-1

The ZV-1 matches the G7X Mark III with 4K UHD video recording at 30p and Full HD 1080p at 120p. It introduces HLG for HDR recording, slow and quick motion, and a dedicated movie mode for enhanced video features.

Verdict: Both cameras deliver impressive video recording capabilities, but the ZV-1 introduces additional features like HLG for HDR recording, making it stand out for video enthusiasts.

Audio Capabilities

Canon G7X Mark III

The G7X Mark III features a built-in stereo microphone and a 3.5mm microphone input for external microphones, catering to enhanced audio recording.

Sony ZV-1

The ZV-1 goes a step further with a built-in 3-capsule directional microphone and a 3.5mm microphone input. Its focus on audio capabilities is particularly beneficial for vloggers and content creators.

Verdict: Sony takes the lead in audio capabilities, offering a built-in directional microphone that can greatly enhance the audio quality of your recordings.

Display

Canon G7X Mark III

Equipped with a 3.0-inch tilt-type touchscreen LCD with a resolution of approximately 1.04 million dots, the G7X Mark III provides a user-friendly interface.

Sony ZV-1

The ZV-1 features a 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD with a resolution of approximately 921,600 dots, providing flexibility for framing shots, especially in selfie mode.

Verdict: Sony’s vari-angle touchscreen adds versatility for framing shots, particularly in selfie mode, making it a preferred choice for those who value flexible display options.

Connectivity

Canon G7X Mark III

The G7X Mark III includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, USB, HDMI, and a 3.5mm microphone input, ensuring seamless integration with various devices and accessories.

Sony ZV-1

The ZV-1 offers similar connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, and a 3.5mm microphone input, providing a comprehensive set of features for content creators.

Verdict: Both cameras provide extensive connectivity options, ensuring compatibility with various accessories and facilitating wireless sharing and remote control.

Winner of the comparison?

Choosing a “winner” between the Canon G7X Mark III and the Sony ZV-1 depends on your specific needs and priorities as a content creator. Both cameras offer impressive features, and the decision ultimately comes down to what aspects are more crucial for your style of shooting.

Verdict:

• If you prioritize a longer zoom range, excellent image quality, and versatile video capabilities, the Canon G7X Mark III is your preferred choice.
• If superior audio quality, advanced video features, and a vari-angle touchscreen are more crucial for your content creation, the Sony ZV-1 is a better fit.

Consider your specific use cases, such as vlogging, product reviews, or general photography, and weigh the importance of features like zoom, audio quality, and video capabilities to determine which camera aligns best with your creative needs.