Samsung WB750 vs Sony ZV-1: A Detailed Comparison for Photographers and Content Creators

Choosing the right camera is a pivotal step in your creative journey. Whether you’re capturing breathtaking landscapes, vibrant street scenes, intimate portraits, or dynamic videos, the gear you choose deeply influences your results and experience. Today, we dive into comparing two very different yet intriguing cameras: the 2011 Samsung WB750 - a small sensor superzoom compact - and the 2020 Sony ZV-1, a large sensor compact built with content creators in mind.

We bring 15+ years of hands-on expertise in camera testing to this comparison, aiming to help you understand the nuances and practical differences between these models. While specs provide a foundation, we focus on real-world performance, ergonomics, usability, and suitability for various photography disciplines. Let’s unpack how these two cameras measure up against each other.

Understanding the Physical Difference: Size, Weight & Handling

At first glance, these two cameras couldn’t be more physically distinct. The Samsung WB750 is a slim and compact superzoom model, weighing just 193 g and measuring a trim 105 x 59 x 25 mm. The Sony ZV-1 is larger and heavier at 294 g and 105 x 60 x 44 mm but packs a more complex feature set and a larger sensor.

The WB750’s slimness lends itself well to pocket portability and lightweight travel setups. The body is manageable for all-day shooting without fatigue, especially handy for casual users and travelers aiming to minimize bulk.

The ZV-1’s increased heft and thickness house a bigger sensor, extended controls, and a robust grip. It feels more substantial in hand, which many advanced users prefer for stability especially when shooting video or in manual mode.

Ergonomics: Grip, Controls, and Button Layout

Ergonomically, the WB750 leans towards simplicity with fewer manual controls. The lens barrel doubles as your zoom lever, and menus are basic, designed for ease rather than speed. Its top panel is minimal, suitable if you prioritize straightforward point-and-shoot operation.

The Sony ZV-1, in contrast, offers a thoughtful layout tailored for content creators with vlog-focused features. It has more dedicated buttons, a fully articulating touchscreen, and tactile dials for aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation.

The ZV-1’s buttons have a firm feedback feel, and its articulating screen enables easier framing for selfies or low-angle shots. For photographers trending towards manual control or video-centric shooting, the ZV-1’s ergonomics are clearly advantageous.

Sensor Technology & Image Quality: The Core Difference

Nothing shapes image quality like the sensor. Here, the difference is stark and fundamental.

• Samsung WB750: 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor, 13 MP resolution, sensor size 6.17x4.55 mm (28.07 mm²)
• Sony ZV-1: 1" BSI-CMOS sensor, 20 MP resolution, sensor size 13.2x8.8 mm (116.16 mm²)

The Sony ZV-1's sensor area is more than four times larger than that of the WB750, delivering significant advantages:

• Dynamic Range: The ZV-1 captures more shadow detail and highlights with less noise.
• Low Light Performance: Larger pixels on the ZV-1’s sensor collect more light, resulting in cleaner images at higher ISOs.
• Resolution & Detail: The 20 MP sensor captures finer detail, beneficial for large prints or cropping.
• Color Depth & Tonality: The ZV-1 produces more natural and vibrant colors, especially noticeable in skin tones.

The WB750's smaller sensor naturally limits image quality, with more noise creeping in at ISO 800 and above. It performs best in bright daylight, where sensor size is less critical.

In Practice: Real-World Image Comparisons

To illustrate, here are sample images from both cameras capturing a variety of scenes:

Samsung WB750 screen back Sony ZV 1 front Sony ZV 1 screen back

The WB750’s photos are acceptable for social media and casual snapshots, but textures like foliage and skin detail are softer. The ZV-1 excels at preserving detail and rendering colors with subtlety. Night and indoor shots show markedly less noise and better exposure latitude on the ZV-1.

Autofocus Performance: Precision and Speed in Action

Autofocus (AF) technology can make or break shooting experiences, especially for fast-paced or unpredictable subjects.

The ZV-1’s hybrid AF system dominates with rapid, reliable focusing on static and moving subjects. Its 315 AF points cover much of the frame and contribute to precise subject tracking - for example, eye AF locks onto faces with remarkable accuracy. This is invaluable for portrait, wildlife, and sports imagery.

The WB750's contrast-only AF is slower and may hunt for focus in low contrast or low light conditions. It can track moving objects but with less responsiveness, limiting its use in fast action or wildlife scenarios.

Lens Versatility: Zoom Range vs Aperture

Both cameras use fixed zoom lenses tailored to their sensor sizes and intended uses.

The WB750’s impressive 18x zoom is a key selling point, making it capable of reaching distant subjects such as wildlife or sports from afar. However, its smaller sensor and narrower apertures at telephoto lengths impact image brightness and overall quality.

The ZV-1’s lens is notably faster with a bright f/1.8 aperture ideal for shallow depth of field effects, low light shooting, and creamy bokeh - advantageous for portraits and video interviews. Its shorter zoom range limits extreme telephoto reach but maintains excellent sharpness and low distortion.

Display & User Interface: Navigating Your Creative Flow

The screens on both cameras affect how you compose and review shots.

The ZV-1's fully articulating, high-resolution touchscreen dramatically improves usability, letting you shoot from creative angles and easily select focus points. Touch controls take the guesswork out of menus, focusing, and playback navigation.

The WB750’s fixed, lower-resolution screen limits flexibility and visibility in bright conditions. It lacks touchscreen convenience, relying on physical buttons and a stiffer menu system.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speeds: Capturing the Moment

For sports, wildlife, or fast action, the camera’s burst speed and shutter range are crucial.

The ZV-1 doubles the WB750’s burst rate, enabling more effective tracking of dynamic subjects like athletes or wildlife in flight. Its electronic shutter mode supports ultra-fast 1/32000s speeds, useful for bright daylight or creative effects.

The WB750’s top-end shutter speed and burst rate are sufficient for casual action but less capable for serious sports photography.

Video Capabilities: Elevating Your Storytelling

Video is a growing priority for many photographers and creators, and these cameras offer different levels of capability.

The Sony ZV-1 stands out as a video powerhouse among compacts, offering 4K recording, slow-motion options, high bitrates up to 100 Mbps, and a microphone input port - vital for vloggers and video creators demanding quality sound and image.

The WB750 supports basic Full HD (1080p) video at 30 fps, suitable for casual use but lacking advanced features, audio controls, or higher frame rates.

Battery Life and Connectivity: Staying Powered and Connected

Efficient power management and connectivity features influence usability during long shoots or content sharing.

The WB750’s lack of wireless connectivity limits remote control or image transfer conveniences. Battery life data is unclear, but expect modest endurance given the camera’s age and compact design.

The ZV-1 offers modern conveniences including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless image transfer to smartphones and remote control via Sony’s apps, ideal for workflow speed and social media sharing. Battery endurance supports full-day handheld sessions but backups are recommended for extended shoots.

Durability & Weather Resistance

Neither camera includes robust environmental sealing or ruggedness features such as waterproofing or freezeproofing, so they are best treated as everyday carry cameras rather than harsh environment tools.

Applying These Cameras Across Photography Genres

With these technical insights, let’s consider how each camera fits into key photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography

• Sony ZV-1 wins comfortably with a larger sensor providing better skin tone rendition, smoother bokeh from fast aperture, and precise eye detection AF.
• The WB750’s longer lens reach is less beneficial here; its smaller sensor limits shallow depth effects and low light performance.

Landscape Photography

• The ZV-1’s sensor offers greater dynamic range and resolution for detail-rich landscapes.
• WB750’s extended zoom range is less relevant; its small sensor and narrower apertures impose limitations.
• Neither has weather sealing crucial for challenging outdoor conditions, so handle with care.

Wildlife Photography

• WB750’s extensive 24-432 mm zoom covers distant subjects better.
• ZV-1 autofocus speed and accuracy excel but may require teleconverters or additional lenses to match WB750’s reach.
• Neither camera is designed for professional wildlife demands but ZV-1’s burst speed and tracking enhance chances of sharp captures.

Sports Photography

• ZV-1’s 24 fps burst and superior AF tracking provide better outcomes.
• WB750's 10 fps burst and slower AF hinder capturing decisive moments.

Street Photography

• WB750’s small, slim size aids discreet shooting.
• ZV-1’s articulating screen and touchscreen support quick composition but is bulkier.
• Low light advantage for ZV-1 is substantial for night street scenes.

Macro Photography

• Both focus down to 5 cm offering similar close-up capabilities.
• Stabilization in both helps but ZV-1’s faster lens improves shallow depth and detail.

Night & Astro Photography

• ZV-1 far outperforms WB750 with higher ISO clean images, exposure bracketing, and longer exposure capability.
• WB750’s ISO ceiling of 3200 and older sensor tech fall short for serious low light use.

Video Content Creation

• ZV-1 is purpose built here with 4K video, mic input, slow motion, stabilization, and selfie screen.
• WB750 limited to Full HD 30p, no audio input, and basic stabilization.

Travel Photography

• WB750 excels on weight and zoom versatility.
• ZV-1 trades weight for superior image quality and creative options.

Professional Use

• ZV-1’s RAW support, extensive AF, and video codecs are more suited for professional workflows.
• WB750 is more casual with JPEG only and basic connectivity.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Which Camera Should You Choose?

The decision boils down to your creative needs and budget.

• Choose the Samsung WB750 if:

  • You want a highly portable, compact camera.
  • You prioritize a long zoom for distant subjects.
  • You shoot mostly in good light and want simplicity.
  • Your budget is tight around $300.

• Choose the Sony ZV-1 if:

  • You want excellent image quality and low light performance.
  • You shoot portraits, weddings, street scenes, or video.
  • You want advanced autofocus and video features.
  • You value a versatile touchscreen interface.
  • Price ~ $750 fits your budget for a compact powerhouse.

Final Thoughts: Aligning Gear with Your Vision

Every camera investment should serve your vision and style. The Samsung WB750 was a commendable compact superzoom in its day, but in 2024, the Sony ZV-1’s cutting-edge technology caters better to a broader range of photographic disciplines, especially as content creation embraces video. Although pricier, it offers a longer usable lifespan and creative flexibility.

We encourage you to handle these cameras in person if possible - feel the ergonomics, test their autofocus responsiveness, and try shooting your favorite subjects. Look for lenses and accessories that complement your shooting style to unlock each camera’s fullest potential.

No matter which camera you choose, the most important step is to get out and create. These tools are gateways to storytelling, and mastering their capabilities empowers your creative expression.

Ready to explore further? Check out local stores or rental services to try these cameras firsthand. Browse lenses and supports that match your shooting niche. Whether capturing distant wildlife or intimate portraits, your perfect camera awaits.

Happy shooting!