Canon launches the Powershot V1, a serious rival to the Sony ZV with a 40% larger sensor
Take a canon compact. Add him a small large sensor (or a large small sensor) in 1.4 inch format and a horde of functions dedicated to video. You get the Powershot V1, Canon's response to the Sony ZV, the current references of the Vlogging Compacts. A case which is not officially announced in Asia for the time being, but which should quickly be declined for the European market.
The first argument of this compact is its greater sensor than the classic 1 inch of Sony. It is a 22.3 Mpix sensor in a funny 1.4 inch format. Recalling the 1.5 inch sensors in 4/3 format of fire Powershot G1X (2012), this sensor of which we do not know the ratio is generation Dual Pixel Cmos AF II. A promise of prettier background blurs and good AF.
On the optical side, the zoom is an equivalent 17-52 mm f/2.8-4.0 (8.2-25.6 mm), a classic focal range of Vlogging optics and devices. Because it allows both to film objects and sets and film yourself at arm's length when you address your audience. Note that the optics are stabilized because the sensor is not.
In terms of manipulation, no viewfinder as is the case with the video devices of the competition. The aim is done exclusively via the Tactile LCD screen mounted on ball joint.
At the heart of this 426g compact (with battery), we find the Digic X processor which already motorizes many devices of the brand. But while most cannon boxes are photo focused, this Powershot V1 claims above all a video DNA.
A horde of video functions
In terms of physical design, this compact with a marked grip incorporates a fan in order to guarantee great stability for long filming periods.
In the field of filming, the sensor produces 4K but sampled from a 5.7K definition (4k30p). The 4K60P is also part of the game, but for a 30% crop (which therefore tightens the viewing angle).
But beyond the image definition, the horde of features dedicated to video must be taken into account. Like the 3 STOPS neutral density filter (ND3), Canon log3 compatibility for colors calibration, front recording light (Tally Light), Timecode compatibility to synchronize cameras, Zebras function, Live Streaming , the native timelapse, the video delayer (to avoid having to cut the start of the sequences), etc.
And then there is the audio part. In addition to the two 3.5 mm jack sockets for headphones and microphone, a system of three integrated microphones must be added (including one dedicated to noise reduction) as well as a multifunction claw to connect external microphones via a digital connection .
In terms of connectivity, in addition to the direct USB-C connectors (PC webcam via UVC and UAC protocols), we obviously find Wi-Fi. Wi-fi which also allows streaming, even if we expect more flows reduced in direct connection.
If the European price and European availability have not yet been announced, the launch rate of the Canon Powershot V1 should oscillate around € 999. A potential price higher than the ZV1 II of Sony, but which could be revised downwards. And which could be justified by the sensor 40% larger than the Sony 1 inch sensor.
