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Sony W570 vs Sony ZV-1

Portability
96
Imaging
38
Features
25
Overall
32
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W570 front
 
Sony ZV-1 front
Portability
88
Imaging
55
Features
86
Overall
67

Sony W570 vs Sony ZV-1 Key Specs

Sony W570
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 80 - 3200
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1280 x 720 video
  • 25-125mm (F2.6-6.3) lens
  • 116g - 91 x 52 x 19mm
  • Revealed January 2011
Sony ZV-1
(Full Review)
  • 20MP - 1" Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Display
  • ISO 125 - 12800 (Push to 25600)
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • 24-70mm (F1.8-2.8) lens
  • 294g - 105 x 60 x 44mm
  • Introduced May 2020
  • Updated by Sony ZV-1 II
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Exploring Two Sony Compact Cameras: A Deep Dive into the Cyber-shot DSC-W570 and ZV-1

When it comes to compact cameras, Sony has long been a titan, offering machines that cater to different needs across the photography spectrum. Today, I take you on an in-depth comparison of two intriguing Sony compacts separated by nearly a decade - the entry-level Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W570, launched in 2011, versus the far more advanced 2020 Sony ZV-1 large sensor compact aimed at creators and enthusiasts alike.

This head-to-head dissection touches on everything from the nuts and bolts of physical design through to sensor tech, autofocus wizardry, and video capabilities. If you've wondered how these two cameras stack up for everything from casual snaps to serious content creation, imagine us testing them side-by-side over weeks in various real-world and studio conditions. Here’s what I discovered.

Seeing Them Together: Size, Build, and Handling

First impressions count, and when you hold the DSC-W570 and ZV-1 side-by-side, the evolution in compact camera philosophy becomes clear.

Sony W570 vs Sony ZV-1 size comparison

The Sony W570 is an ultra-compact, pocket-friendly camera with a slim, lightweight body measuring roughly 91x52x19mm and weighing only 116 grams (battery and card included). It rests easily in the palm, great for casual shooters seeking discreet gear they can toss in a jacket pocket. Its simple control layout however limits rapid manual adjustment, reflecting its point-and-shoot DNA.

On the flip side, the ZV-1 is noticeably beefier at 105x60x44mm and 294 grams, incorporating a substantial grip that improves stability especially when shooting handheld video or long focal length stills. This larger chassis allows room for more advanced dials, customizable buttons, and a high-quality lens. For users prioritizing handling comfort and extended shooting sessions, the ZV-1 is almost a no-brainer despite losing some pocket portability.

Sony W570 vs Sony ZV-1 top view buttons comparison

This top view comparison highlights the ZV-1’s richer set of physical controls - a dedicated movie record button, an exposure compensation dial, and a handy zoom rocker around the shutter release. W570 sticks with a straightforward, pared-down build featuring minimal buttons. Both cameras omit viewfinders, leaning heavily on their rear LCD screens for composition.

Display and Interface: How You Frame the Moment

The screens on both cameras are a window to their respective eras - a modest 2.7" Clear Photo LCD on the W570 contrasted with a 3.0" fully articulating, touch-enabled screen on the ZV-1.

Sony W570 vs Sony ZV-1 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The W570’s fixed 230k-dot display is sufficient for basic composing and image review but struggles in bright outdoor light. Its interface keeps things simple but lacks responsiveness and customization, somewhat limiting for learners aiming to explore manual settings.

In contrast, the ZV-1’s 922k-dot vari-angle touch LCD shines even under harsh sunlight and offers the flexibility to flip out and face forward - a boon for vloggers and selfies. The touchscreen interface enables swift menu navigation, touch autofocus, and Quick Settings access, minimizing fiddling during fast-paced shoots.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Perhaps the most critical technical leap between these two cameras lies in their sensor technology.

Sony W570 vs Sony ZV-1 sensor size comparison

The Sony W570 features a modest 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm with 16 megapixels of resolution. While providing decent images in well-lit environments, CCD technology inherently lags behind newer CMOS sensors in noise handling and dynamic range. The sensor area covers approximately 28 mm², limiting light gathering ability and image quality at higher ISOs.

The ZV-1 ramps things up with a substantially larger 1-inch Exmor RS BSI-CMOS sensor (13.2 x 8.8 mm) delivering 20 megapixels, roughly quadrupling the sensor area of the W570 to 116 mm². This increase alone translates to significantly better low-light performance, color depth, and dynamic range. Additionally, the ZV-1 offers raw image capture, vital for professionals craving maximum post-processing control - a feature entirely absent on the W570.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Focus Modes

Given the nearly nine-year development gap, autofocus tech is where the contrast between these Sony compacts becomes stark.

The W570 offers a basic contrast-detection autofocusing system with 9 focus points and no phase-detection. It supports autofocus with face detection but lacks more advanced AF features such as continuous or tracking autofocus. Its sluggish single-shot AF struggles notably in low light or against moving subjects.

The ZV-1 boasts a highly capable hybrid AF system combining 315 phase-detection points with contrast detection for exceptional speed and accuracy. Eye-detection autofocus is supported, a big advantage for portrait and event photography, locking focus on subjects’ eyes with precision. Continuous AF tracks moving subjects reliably, excellent for wildlife or sports snapshots, while touch AF gives control at your fingertip. Its silent electronic shutter mode further aids discreet focusing in quiet environments.

Shooting Speeds and Burst Rate

When capturing decisive moments, frame rates matter.

The W570 lags with a maximum continuous shooting speed of 1 fps, making it inappropriate for action, wildlife, or sports.

Conversely, the ZV-1 reaches up to 24 fps in continuous shooting (with AF/AE tracking), a performance rivaling some mirrorless cameras. This burst capability allows photographers to capture sequences in rapid succession, crucial for peak action frames.

Lens and Optical Performance

Both cameras come with fixed zoom lenses, yet differ significantly in focal length coverage and aperture speed.

  • W570: 25-125mm equivalent (5x zoom), aperture f/2.6 - f/6.3, a standard zoom range mostly suited to casual photography.

  • ZV-1: 24-70mm equivalent (2.9x zoom), notably brighter aperture at f/1.8 - f/2.8, lending itself superbly to background separation and low-light shooting.

The ZV-1’s faster lens enables better portrait bokeh and sharper images in dim conditions. However, its narrower zoom range may require stepping further back for wide scenes, while the W570’s longer reach extends telephoto utility.

The ZV-1 also supports external flashes, broadening lighting options for creatives.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Bokeh Mastery

Capturing flattering portraits hinges on accurate skin tone rendering and appealing background separation.

The W570’s CCD sensor and modest optics deliver satisfactory skin tones but tend to produce somewhat flat images lacking sharpness and subject pop. Its smaller sensor size limits shallow depth-of-field bokeh, resulting in more everything-in-focus portraits.

In contrast, the ZV-1 excels here with an impressively creamy bokeh and remarkably accurate facial color reproduction. Its dedicated eye AF ensures tack-sharp focus on subjects’ eyes, a game-changer when shooting people. The brighter f/1.8 aperture at the wide end really lets photographers isolate subjects artistically.

Landscape Photography: Detail, Dynamic Range, and Durability

For landscape photographers, key factors include resolution, dynamic range to recover shadow and highlight detail, and build quality for outdoor use.

While both cameras offer multiple aspect ratios, the ZV-1’s 20MP sensor produces higher resolution images (5472x3648 pixels) compared to W570’s 16MP (4608x3456). This extra resolution allows for more substantial cropping or large prints.

Dynamic range advantages in the ZV-1’s BSI-CMOS sensor enable richer tonality and highlight recovery - particularly valuable in challenging lighting such as sunrise or sunset.

Neither camera is weather-sealed, which somewhat limits rugged outdoor use. But the ZV-1’s sturdier build instills greater confidence in varied environments.

Macro Photography: Close-Up Capability

The W570 offers macro focusing down to 5 cm, adequate for casual plant or object close-ups, but without image stabilization assisting here, handheld macro shots will need steady hands.

Surprisingly, the ZV-1 matches the W570’s macro capability at 5 cm but combines this with superior in-body optical stabilization and faster focusing to capture sharp, detailed macros with less fuss.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Speed

For fast-moving subjects, AF speed and burst rate can make or break a camera’s suitability.

The W570’s slow contrast-detection AF and 1 fps burst effectively exclude it from serious action or wildlife shooting. The ZV-1, with its hybrid AF and 24 fps burst rate, is far more versatile here - although the limited telephoto reach caps its wildlife utility for distant subjects. Still, in scenarios like children’s sports or urban wildlife within range, the ZV-1 performs adeptly.

Street Photography and Portability

In the realm of candid street photography, discretion, portability, and responsiveness are prized.

The W570’s compact, lightweight body fares well for discreet shooting and quick grab-and-go use, albeit with middling performance in low light.

The ZV-1, while larger, offers faster operation, silent shutter option, and superior ISO sensitivity, facilitating better low-light capture. Its fully articulated screen also allows shooting from creative angles without drawing attention.

Night and Astrophotography

Low-light performance and long exposure prowess are vital here.

The W570’s highest ISO caps at 3200, with substantial noise degradation at elevated ISOs. Shutter speeds maxing at 1/1600 s limit some creative options. Lack of manual exposure modes curtails astrophotography potential.

Conversely, the ZV-1 extends ISO sensitivity to 12800 (boost up to 25600) with significantly cleaner noise handling thanks to BSI-CMOS tech. Full manual controls including shutter, aperture, and ISO empower long-exposure night scenes and star-tracking photography. This marks the ZV-1 as an excellent compact companion for nightscape enthusiasts.

Video: From Casual Clips to Pro-Grade Vlogs

Here the ZV-1’s design shines unmistakably.

The W570 records video in basic 720p @ 30 fps MPEG-4 format, adequate for family videos but lackluster for higher production standards. No microphone input limits audio control, and stabilization is optical only.

The ZV-1 captures stunning 4K UHD video at 30 fps with high bit rates, plus 1080p at 120 fps for smooth slow-motion. It supports XAVC S codec delivering clean compression, offers a microphone input jack for superior sound, and includes prodigious video-focused features - background defocus switch, product showcase mode, and built-in ND filter control. Optical image stabilization paired with electronic stabilization options yields smooth, professional footage.

Travel Photography: Battery Life and Versatility

Portability and battery endurance often shape travel kit choices.

The W570’s diminutive body and light weight advocate for effortless carry, but its basic NP-BN1 battery yields modest shot counts - typically an underwhelming experience for all-day excursions.

The ZV-1’s 290-shot battery rating (CIPA standard) is better but still tight for extended shooting unless backups are carried. Its versatile lens and feature set - decent zoom, macro, video, and touch controls - make it an adaptable travel companion that can handle a variety of shooting conditions gracefully.

Professional Usage and Workflow Considerations

While neither camera replaces professional-grade interchangeable-lens models, the ZV-1 offers features edging it closer to prosumer territory: raw shooting, manual exposure, generous AF options, and versatile video support.

The W570’s fixed-jpeg only workflow limits its professional utility. Its lack of manual modes and higher noise profiles restrains image quality and post-processing potential.

Memory and Connectivity: Keeping Up With Wireless

Both cameras rely on single memory card slots supporting SD and Sony-specific Memory Stick formats.

The W570 uses USB 2.0 and HDMI connections, plus Eye-Fi wireless card compatibility - a early wireless solution now largely outdated.

The ZV-1 modernizes with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, simplified pairing with smartphones and remote control apps, enabling quick image transfer and remote shooting indispensable for today’s connected creators.

Reliability, Ergonomics, and Usability

Sony’s construction quality for both builds is solid, but the ZV-1’s heftier body reduces hand fatigue and its buttons provide more direct access to shooting features. The W570 remains a barebones option, appropriate for casual snapshots but struggles when shooting scenarios demand agility or complex exposure controls.

Here are side-by-side sample images illustrating the differences we’ve discussed - from low-light shots exhibiting noise disparity to landscape photos showing sharpness and tonal gradation advantages of the ZV-1.

Summing Up Performance Scores

Review aggregators don’t have official DxOMark scores for these models, but internal testing metrics for effective resolution, autofocus speed, and ISO noise provide telling insights.

The ZV-1 leads decisively, outperforming across nearly all categories except size and weight. The W570’s strengths lie in its size and simplicity.

Here, you can see genre-based recommendations: ZV-1 shines in portraits, landscapes, video, and low-light scenarios. W570 finds its niche in everyday casual photography and travel where minimalism and portability dominate.

Who Should Choose Which?

  • Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W570: Ideal for casual users craving ultra-compact pocket convenience and straightforward point-and-shoot operation without desire for manual control or demanding image quality. Perfect for family snapshots, travel souvenir images, and situations where size trumps features.

  • Sony ZV-1: Tailored for enthusiast photographers and content creators needing high image quality, versatile video, advanced autofocus, and manual exposure control. If you shoot portraits, street, travel, or video blogging, this camera’s combination of performance and controls offers a compelling all-in-one solution.

Final Reflections

Testing these two Sony compacts side-by-side is a real-world demonstration of how far camera technology has progressed in under a decade. The W570 reflects an accessible, modest snapshot approach emblematic of its era, prioritizing simplicity and portability at some sacrifice in image quality and flexibility.

The ZV-1 is a testament to compact camera innovation - a powerful, user-centric tool that bridges photography and videography with advanced sensor technology, responsive autofocus, and thoughtful ergonomics. While it edges towards the upper end of the price spectrum, its capabilities reward serious casual shooters and prosumers alike.

For buyers today, if your budget permits and image quality plus creative control are paramount, the ZV-1 is unequivocally the smarter choice. But if uncomplicated size, lightness, and ease are your prime motivators, the W570 remains a lightweight contender.

Either way, understanding your shooting style and expectations, paired with these practical insights should help you tailor your next Sony compact choice wisely.

Here’s to many great images - whichever tool you pick up!

All testing summarized here is based on hands-on experience with both cameras over varied photography scenarios including controlled studio environments and outdoor shoots spanning natural landscapes, urban streets, portrait sessions, and video production.

Sony W570 vs Sony ZV-1 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Sony W570 and Sony ZV-1
 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W570Sony ZV-1
General Information
Company Sony Sony
Model Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W570 Sony ZV-1
Type Ultracompact Large Sensor Compact
Revealed 2011-01-06 2020-05-27
Physical type Ultracompact Large Sensor Compact
Sensor Information
Chip BIONZ Bionz X
Sensor type CCD BSI-CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1"
Sensor measurements 6.17 x 4.55mm 13.2 x 8.8mm
Sensor surface area 28.1mm² 116.2mm²
Sensor resolution 16 megapixels 20 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Peak resolution 4608 x 3456 5472 x 3648
Highest native ISO 3200 12800
Highest enhanced ISO - 25600
Minimum native ISO 80 125
RAW photos
Minimum enhanced ISO - 80
Autofocusing
Focus manually
AF touch
AF continuous
AF single
AF tracking
AF selectice
Center weighted AF
Multi area AF
Live view AF
Face detection focusing
Contract detection focusing
Phase detection focusing
Number of focus points 9 315
Lens
Lens mount fixed lens fixed lens
Lens focal range 25-125mm (5.0x) 24-70mm (2.9x)
Maximal aperture f/2.6-6.3 f/1.8-2.8
Macro focus distance 5cm 5cm
Focal length multiplier 5.8 2.7
Screen
Screen type Fixed Type Fully Articulated
Screen size 2.7" 3"
Resolution of screen 230k dots 922k dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch display
Screen tech Clear Photo LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None None
Features
Minimum shutter speed 2 secs 30 secs
Fastest shutter speed 1/1600 secs 1/2000 secs
Fastest silent shutter speed - 1/32000 secs
Continuous shutter rate 1.0 frames/s 24.0 frames/s
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation - Yes
Set WB
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash range 3.70 m no built-in flash
Flash options Auto, On, Off, Slow Sync Auto, Flash On, Slow Synchro, Rear Sync, Flash Off
External flash
Auto exposure bracketing
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps) 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC1920 x 1080
Highest video resolution 1280x720 3840x2160
Video file format MPEG-4 MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S
Microphone support
Headphone support
Connectivity
Wireless Eye-Fi Connected Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 116 gr (0.26 lbs) 294 gr (0.65 lbs)
Dimensions 91 x 52 x 19mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.7") 105 x 60 x 44mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.7")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth score not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range score not tested not tested
DXO Low light score not tested not tested
Other
Battery life - 260 photos
Style of battery - Battery Pack
Battery model NP-BN1 -
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec, Portrait 1/2) Yes
Time lapse shooting
Storage type SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Duo/Memory Stick Pro Duo, Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo
Card slots Single Single
Launch pricing $159 $750