Introduction

The resurgence of compact cameras is real, and Canon’s latest entrant, the Canon PowerShot V1, is making waves in the vlogging and creator communities. With competitors like Fujifilm’s X100 VI and Sony’s ZV-1 II already in the mix, Canon’s hybrid compact camera ups the ante with a large 1.4-inch sensor, 4K 10-bit video, and advanced stabilization. If you’re a content creator looking for a small yet powerful device, here’s why the PowerShot V1 is worth serious consideration.

1. Large Sensor for Superior Quality

The Canon PowerShot V1 features a 1.4-inch, 22-megapixel sensor — nearly as large as Micro Four Thirds — delivering excellent image clarity and dynamic range. This larger sensor size means better low-light performance and greater detail in both video and stills.

2. Supersampled 4K Video with 10-Bit Color

Unlike most compacts in its class, the PowerShot V1 offers 10-bit C-Log 3 and HDR video support, capturing supersampled 4K at 30fps from the full sensor width and 4K 60fps with a 1.4x crop. This provides professional-grade footage ideal for YouTube, documentaries, or client work.

3. Advanced Stabilization for Smooth Footage

Canon pairs 5-stop optical image stabilization with digital IS to keep handheld footage stable, even while walking. While not on par with DJI’s gimbal-based Osmo Pocket 3, it far outshines the Sony ZV-1 II’s electronic-only stabilization.

4. Fully Articulating Touchscreen

The V1’s new flip-out display makes it ideal for vloggers and solo content creators. Whether you’re shooting selfies, high-angle shots, or low-to-the-ground scenes, this screen is versatile—though slightly dim in bright sunlight.

5. Professional Audio Capabilities

The PowerShot V1 comes equipped with mic and headphone jacks — a rarity in this category. Audio monitoring and external mic input give creators more control over their sound, crucial for professional content.

6. Fast Burst Photography and Reliable Autofocus

For photography, the PowerShot V1 is no slouch. It delivers 30 fps electronic burst shooting and 15 fps with its rare mechanical shutter. Canon’s Dual Pixel II autofocus system supports eye, face, animal, and vehicle detection, ensuring fast and accurate focus across scenarios.

7. Built-in Fan to Prevent Overheating

Canon smartly includes a built-in cooling fan, helping the V1 avoid overheating issues even when recording extended 4K video at high resolutions. This sets it apart from rivals like Sony’s ZV-1 II, which can overheat under similar loads.

Canon PowerShot V1 vs Competitors

• Vs Sony ZV-1 II: Canon offers better color depth (10-bit vs 8-bit), true optical stabilization, and headphone monitoring.
• Vs DJI Osmo Pocket 3: DJI wins on stabilization, but Canon excels in image quality and photography flexibility.
• Vs Fujifilm X100 VI: The Fuji is better styled and has film simulations, but Canon’s video specs are superior.

Conclusion

The Canon PowerShot V1 may not be the prettiest compact camera on the market, but it more than makes up for that with sheer performance. Whether you’re a budding YouTuber, a hybrid shooter, or a seasoned vlogger, this camera delivers outstanding video and photo capabilities in a compact, creator-focused package. At $900, it’s a strong investment for anyone serious about content creation.

Wrap-up
I can see what Canon was going for with the $900 PowerShot V1. It effectively beats out its main compact vlogging rival, Sony’s ZV-1 II, by offering a larger sensor, optical stabilization and more video options for around the same price. And it appeals to hybrid shooters more than DJI’s Osmo Pocket 3 as it can better handle photography chores while also capturing higher-quality video.

The problem is that it’s still primarily a vlogging camera and a lot of content creators have abandoned this type of compact model in favor of the Osmo Pocket 3. That’s because the Pocket 3 offers unique features like motorized camera tracking and a superior three-axis gimbal. It also pairs with DJI’s popular Mic 2 and Mic mini wireless microphones, which is another big advantage. At the same time, the PowerShot V1 has a pretty basic design, so it may not appeal to buyers looking for something prettier like the X100 VI.

At the end of the day, the PowerShot V1 is bound to be a hit because it delivers when it comes to video and photo quality — especially given the current popularity of the now-ancient G7X III. In fact, I’d recommend it over Sony’s ZV-1 II, particularly if you’re looking for a hybrid camera that pulls double duty.

CTA: Want to explore more cameras in this category? Check out our best compact vlogging cameras for 2025.