Canon’s latest releases, the EOS R50 V and PowerShot V1, are shaking up the market for content creators. Designed with videographers and vloggers in mind, both cameras offer distinct features tailored to modern video production. Let’s dive into their specs, performance, and ideal use cases.
Canon EOS R50 V: A Video-Focused APS-C Powerhouse
Key Features
- 24MP APS-C Sensor: This sensor delivers crisp 4K video oversampled from 6K, ensuring sharp detail.
- RF Mount Compatibility: This mount supports Canon’s growing lineup of RF lenses, including the new RF 20mm f/1.4 VCM for low-light and wide-angle shooting.
- 10-Bit 4:2:2 Recording: Provides rich colour depth for professional-grade editing.
- Dedicated Video Controls: A mode dial optimized for video settings, including manual, C1-C3 presets, and auto modes.
- Dual Tripod Mounts: Enables seamless vertical/portrait shooting without adjusting your setup.
Performance Highlights
- 4K at 30p/24p/25p: Offers flexible frame rates with no crop, ideal for cinematic projects.
- Clog3 Support: Enhances dynamic range for advanced colour grading.
- Intuitive Handling: Separate settings for photo and video modes ensure quick transitions without losing configurations.
- Zoom Rocker: Perfect for smooth focal adjustments during solo filming or gimbal use.
Who Should Buy the EOS R50 V?
This camera is ideal for hybrid creators who need a lightweight, versatile tool for both video and stills. Its RF mount future-proofs your gear, while features like dual tripod mounts and 10-bit recording cater to serious videographers.
Don't Miss Out:
Canon RF-S 14-30mm f4-6.3 IS STM PZ
Here’s one for vloggers and content creators. The Canon RF-S 14-30mm f4-6.3 IS STM PZ is a compact, lightweight lens designed for ease of use. Its portable size makes it ideal for travel filmmaking, and you can comfortably vlog at arm’s length. With a 14-30mm focal range – equivalent to 22-48mm on a full-frame sensor – it offers plenty of flexibility for a variety of content. It’s also the first RF-S lens with internal power zoom, making it ideal for rigs and gimbals.
- Designed for vloggers
- First RF-S lens with internal power zoom
- Compact and lightweight
- Up to 5 stops of image stabilisation
- Flexible control of zoom
- Weighs only 181g
Canon RF 20mm f1.4 L VCM
Joining Canon’s family of hybrid RF lenses, the Canon RF 20mm f1.4 L VCM is the widest in the range. It features the same fast and bright f1.4 aperture, an 11-blade circular diaphragm, and a VCM motor for smooth autofocus performance. This prime lens maintains the compact size and shape of the hybrid range, allowing for quick lens changes when working with accessories and video rigs.
- Ultra-wide field of view
- Designed for video and stills
- Cinematic f1.4 aperture
- Precision VCM motor
- Smooth Iris Ring control
- Lightweight and compact
Canon PowerShot V1: The Ultimate Compact for Vloggers
Canon’s new PowerShot V1 is shaking up the compact camera market, offering a compelling blend of portability and advanced video features tailored for content creators. Positioned above the prevalent G7 X Mark III but potentially more accessible than inflated second-hand prices of older models, the V1 is designed with vloggers, YouTubers, and videographers in mind. Let’s dive into what makes this camera stand out.
Key Features at a Glance
- Large 1.4-Type Sensor: Offers improved dynamic range and low-light performance over traditional 1-inch sensors.
- 16-50mm f/2.8-4.5 Lens: Ultra-wide angle perfect for handheld vlogging and close-up product shots.
- 4K Video & Advanced Cooling: Shoot uncropped 4K up to 30p with a built-in fan to prevent overheating.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF: Fast, reliable autofocus for smooth transitions and sharp tracking.
- Built-In ND Filter & Stabilization: Three-stop ND filter and 5-stop optical IS for professional-grade video.
- Vlogging-Ready Design: Flip-out screen, wind muffler accessory, and 3.5mm mic/headphone jacks.
Priced at £960 (approx. $1,200), the V1 competes directly with Canon’s EOS R50 V and Sony’s ZV series, making it a versatile choice for creators prioritizing portability without sacrificing quality.
Design and Build: Built for Video First
The PowerShot V1 sports a compact yet sturdy design, measuring 118 x 68 x 53mm and weighing 426g. Its chunky grip accommodates three fingers comfortably, and the lens barrel extends swiftly for quick startup. Notable design choices highlight its video-first focus:
- No Pop-Up Flash or Viewfinder: The multi-interface shoe supports mics and accessories, not traditional flashes.
- Active Cooling System: A quiet fan replaces the flash, enabling longer 4K recording (up to 78 minutes per charge).
- Flip-Out Touchscreen: A 3-inch 1.04M-dot LCD tilts for high/low-angle shooting—ideal for solo creators.
While not weather-sealed, the V1’s pocket-friendly size and responsive controls make it a practical on-the-go companion.
Sensor and Image Quality
The 22MP 1.4-type sensor (more significant than the G7 X Mark III’s 1-inch sensor) delivers crisp photos and video with reduced noise. Key takeaways:
- ISO Performance: Clean results up to ISO 1600, with noticeable noise reduction smearing at ISO 6400+.
- Lens Sharpness: The 16-50mm lens shines at f/2.8 (wide) and f/4.5 (tele), retaining corner sharpness even at max aperture.
- Macro & Bokeh: Focuses as close as 5cm (wide) for detailed product shots. However, background blur is modest compared to interchangeable lens cameras.
Video Capabilities: A Vlogger’s Dream
The V1’s video specs cater to creators needing flexibility:
- 4K 24-30p (Uncropped): Oversampled from 5.7K for sharper detail.
- 4K 50/60p (1.4x crop): Sacrifices field of view for smoother motion.
- 1080p up to 120p: Slow-motion options with autofocus support.
- C-Log 3: Flat colour profile for advanced grading.
Stabilization combines optical and digital modes. The “Enhanced” digital crop is tight but effective for handheld walking shots, while the ultra-wide lens minimizes shake.
Audio and Accessories
Canon includes a wind muffler to reduce noise, and the 3.5mm jacks support external mics (tested with Rode VideoMic). The built-in mics perform admirably in mild wind, though hard surfaces may cause echo.
Autofocus: Fast and Reliable
Dual Pixel CMOS AF eliminates the hunting issues of older PowerShot models. The camera swiftly locks onto subjects, even in close-up product demo mode, making it ideal for tutorials or reviews.
Limitations to Consider
- Dim Lens Aperture: f/4.5 at 50mm requires higher ISOs than the G7 X Mark III’s f/2.8.
- No Viewfinder or Flash: Strictly video-centric—not ideal for hybrid shooters.
- Rolling Shutter in 4K: Visible skewing during rapid pans (familiar with oversampled video).
Canon PowerShot V1 vs. Competitors
- G7 X Mark III: Brighter lens but smaller sensor and slower AF.
- Sony ZV-1: Similar video focus but narrower lens and no cooling fan.
- DJI Osmo Pocket 3: Better stabilization and wireless mics but smaller sensor.
The V1 strikes a balance with its sensor size, lens range, and cooling system, though photographers may miss the G7 X’s versatility.
Verdict: A Long-Overdue Upgrade
The Canon PowerShot V1 is a compelling choice for video-first creators needing a portable, feature-packed camera. Its ultra-wide lens, dual-pixel AF, and cooling system address the pain points of earlier compacts, while the 1.4-type sensor offers a tangible quality boost.
Perfect For: Vloggers, product reviewers, and travellers prioritizing video.
Skip If: Low-light stills need a viewfinder, flash, or brighter aperture.
With luck, Canon will keep up with demand—this camera has the potential to dethrone scalper-priced classics.
Who Should Buy the PowerShot V1?
Vloggers and solo creators will love its portability, wide-angle lens, and intuitive features like the product showcase mode. The active cooling system makes it a reliable choice for long recording sessions.
Ready to try the PowerShot V1?
Check availability at Wex or explore hands-on demos at Canon events. Subscribe to our newsletter for more camera comparisons and tips!
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