Sony ZV-E1 vs Sony FX3: Which is Better?

Sony ZV-E1 vs Sony FX3: Which is a better camera for content creation? The Sony ZV-E1 is the newest kid in the block and has some elements or traits of the FX3 cinema camera. The Sony FX3 was released in February 2021 and Sony ZV-E1 was introduced to the market in March 2023.

Two years between both cameras, what difference does it make? First, let’s talk about their pricing and availability.

Pricing and Availability

The Sony ZV-E1 is more affordable, priced at $2,199 for the body only and with a 28-60 mm F4.5-5.6 zoom lens it costs $2,499. In contrast, the FX3 camera is more expensive priced at $3,900. The FX3 is now available for purchase while the ZV-E1 open sales begin in May 2023.

Buy Sony ZV-E1

Sony ZV-E1	Price
Buy on Amazon (EUR)	€2,999.00
Buy on Amazon (UK)	£2,599.00

Buy Sony FX3

Sony FX3	Price
Buy on Amazon	$3,899.99

Sensor | Videography & Photography

Sony ZV-E1 vs Sony FX3 has the same 12.1MP full-frame sensor. The sensor is remarkable for its remarkable quality in the daytime and low light. Moreover, both cameras feature the same image processor “BIONZ XR”. So to a large extent, you can get nearly identical image quality.

As for video recording, both cameras can record video up to 4K resolution at 120fps. However, the Sony ZV-E1 only supports 4K 60fps out of the box, with 4K 120fps being promised as part of a future update. Unlike the FX3 with the full support of 4K 120fps already.

Battery and Heat Management

The Sony FX3 has a longer battery life than the Sony ZV-E1. Thanks to the comprehensive heat management of the Sony FX3. In some cases during long video recordings of over an hour+, the Sony ZV-E1 can automatically shut down due to overheating issues. That could rarely happen with the FX3. And to top the batteries up, both use USB-C.

Similarities | Ports | Software

Sony ZV-E1 vs Sony FX3 are cameras made for different purposes and for different audiences. The ZV-E1 was designed for easy content creation, while the FX3 was designed for a wide variety of creators’ high demands.

However, there are some similarities shared between them. Both have gyroscope stabilization, wireless connection, Bluetooth connection, sensor-shift stabilization, adjustable 3” LCD touchscreen, external flash shoe, RAW support, webcam function, eye tracking, etc.

As for their ports, the Sony FX3 has more ports than the Sony ZV-E1. For example, the FX3 has dual SD ports which are more advantageous than the single SD port featured on the ZV-E1. However, both have a microphone port and a headphone port.

Verdict: Sony ZV-E1 vs Sony FX3

Sony FX3 is better than the Sony ZV-E1. While it is true that they share some similarities, overall, the FX3 is a leap ahead in terms of battery life, heat management, and the number of ports. However, the Sony ZV-E1 is lighter and easier to carry around. After all, it was designed for easy content creation. And remember it is cheaper.