So how does the new Nikon vlogging model (Z30) stand up to Sony's (ZV-E10)?
Here are the big bullet points:
- The Sony is smaller and weighs less, though that also means it's missing some buttons, controls, and grip depth.
- The Sony uses XAVC, while the Nikon uses a more standard H.264.
- The Sony has S-log (2 and 3) and HLG.
- The Sony has extra contacts in the hot shoe for audio accessories.
- The Sony has a headphone jack.
- The Nikon has faster Wi-Fi and newer Bluetooth, the Sony newer USB.
- The Sony has a bigger capacity battery and better battery life.
- The Nikon is somewhat better configured and usable for still use as well as video.
Curiously, that's about it of significance. Yes, the Sony has 24mp, though with a low pass filter. I really don't think in the end I see much in the way of still or video quality difference that isn't just Sony BIONZ versus Nikon EXPEED. Both cameras are excellent at FullHD and 4K, particularly for Internet-oriented productions.
Then there's this:
- ZV-E10 kit is US$800. This includes a very mediocre 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens and a wind screen.
- Z30 kit is US$850. This includes an exceptionally good 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens, but a wind screen is an extra US$10.
I'm sure the Z30 is going to get a ton of comparisons to the ZV-E10 in upcoming reviews, and it's going to hold its own in that respect except for these things:
- No headphone jack. Really, this was a serious omission given the target user and the competitor.
- No N-log/HLG. Not a huge problem for vlogger-style workflows, but still an omission worth noting.
- Wide angle lens support. Sony's recent trio of wide angle lens announcements for crop sensor is something Nikon has no answer for (buzz, buzz).
The question Nikon has to answer is this: is "nearly equal" enough to garner sales? Stay tuned.
