Canon PowerShot V1: The Compact Camera Making A Big Comeback

Canon has unveiled the PowerShot V1, a compact yet powerful camera designed to cater to hybrid shooters and content creators. With a 22.3-megapixel sensor, a 16-50mm f/2.8-4.5 zoom lens, and an emphasis on high-quality video recording, the PowerShot V1 is Canon’s answer to Sony’s ZV-1 Mark II, which has dominated the compact creator camera market in recent years.

Unlike the PowerShot G7X or the older PowerShot V10, which were designed as casual vlogging tools, the PowerShot V1 is a serious hybrid camera that brings premium-level autofocus, strong video capabilities, and a new sensor format to a compact body.

What sets the PowerShot V1 apart from its predecessors and competitors is its unique Type 1.4 sensor—larger than a standard 1-inch sensor but slightly different in size compared to Micro Four Thirds. This allows the camera to deliver improved low-light performance and dynamic range, making it an excellent choice for photographers and videographers alike.

However, it’s clear that Canon is prioritizing video first with this camera, a move that mirrors the strategy behind Sony’s ZV-series. From 4K60p recording to built-in cooling for long-form video capture, Canon is making a strong play for the vlogging and creator community.

A New Era for Compact Cameras

Compact cameras are seeing a resurgence, particularly among younger photographers and content creators who want a dedicated imaging device rather than relying solely on smartphones.

The Canon PowerShot V1 embraces this trend by offering a small, lightweight body while incorporating advanced video features, a larger sensor, and pro-level autofocus.

Unlike previous compact cameras that were photo-first with video as an afterthought, the PowerShot V1 prioritizes video while maintaining strong photography capabilities.

It represents a shift in Canon’s strategy—instead of trying to revive the aging PowerShot G series, the V1 is built from the ground up as a modern hybrid camera designed for today’s creators.

Video Features That Matter

Canon has positioned the PowerShot V1 as a “video-first” camera, and its specs reflect that decision.

4K Video Recording Capabilities

✅ 4K60p recording with a 1.4x crop
✅ 4K30p using the full sensor width
✅ 5.7K oversampling for improved sharpness and detail
✅ Canon Log 3 for professional color grading
✅ In-camera color profiles for quick, polished footage

The oversampled 4K30 footage delivers high levels of detail, while the inclusion of Canon Log 3 makes the camera ideal for filmmakers and advanced content creators looking for more flexibility in post-production.

While the 1.4x crop at 4K60 might be a limitation for some, the full-width 4K30 mode ensures that users can still capture high-quality video without sacrificing field of view.

Stabilization for Smooth Footage

To support handheld shooting, the PowerShot V1 includes:

✅ Optical stabilization in the lens
✅ Electronic stabilization for enhanced smoothness
✅ Subject Tracking IS, which adjusts the crop dynamically to keep subjects in frame

This makes the camera an excellent choice for vloggers and handheld filmmakers, allowing users to move freely while keeping their footage steady and professional-looking.

Advanced Autofocus and Tracking

Borrowing technology from the Canon R6 Mark II, the V1 features:

✅ Dual Pixel CMOS AF II for fast and accurate focus
✅ Eye, Face, and Subject Detection
✅ Animal and Vehicle Tracking for versatility

This ensures that creators can rely on Canon’s industry-leading autofocus system to keep their subjects sharp and in focus—whether shooting interviews, travel vlogs, or documentary-style content.

Designed for Long-Form Video and Streaming

Canon has addressed one of the biggest pain points for video creators: overheating and recording limits.

The PowerShot V1 features an active cooling fan, allowing users to:

✅ Record continuously in 4K60 for over two hours
✅ Livestream via USB-C without time restrictions
✅ Use the camera as a high-quality webcam (UVC/UAC support)

For streamers, YouTubers, and live content creators, this makes the PowerShot V1 a game-changer, offering uninterrupted high-quality video capture.

A Solid Photography Tool as Well

Although video is the main focus, the PowerShot V1 still delivers strong photography capabilities.

✅ 22.3MP still images with RAW support
✅ 30fps continuous shooting
✅ ISO up to 51,200 for low-light performance

For photographers looking for a small yet powerful camera, the V1 offers excellent image quality, fast shooting speeds, and Canon’s signature color science.

User-Friendly Features and Connectivity

Canon has designed the PowerShot V1 to be as user-friendly as possible, especially for hybrid shooters who frequently switch between photo and video.

Dedicated Photo/Video Switch

One of the most convenient additions is a physical photo/video switch, allowing users to:

✅ Instantly change between stills and video
✅ Retain separate settings for each mode

This eliminates the frustration of constantly reconfiguring the camera, making it perfect for on-the-go creators.

Smartphone and Wireless Connectivity

The PowerShot V1 supports:

✅ Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy file transfers
✅ USB-C direct connection to smartphones and laptops
✅ Live streaming and webcam functionality without additional software

These features ensure that creators can quickly share their content or use the camera for remote work, video calls, and livestreaming.

Canon vs. Sony: How Does It Compare?

The PowerShot V1 directly competes with the Sony ZV-1 Mark II, but how do they stack up?

Feature	Canon PowerShot V1	Sony ZV-1 Mark II
Sensor	Type 1.4 (larger than 1-inch)	1-inch
Lens	16-50mm f/2.8-4.5	18-50mm f/1.8-4
Autofocus	Dual Pixel CMOS AF II (R6 Mark II tech)	Sony Real-time Tracking
4K Recording	4K60 (1.4x crop), 4K30 full-width	4K30 only
Cooling System	Built-in fan for long recording	No fan, overheating possible
ND Filter	3-stop built-in ND	Built-in ND
Audio Inputs	3.5mm mic & headphone jacks	3.5mm mic only
Livestreaming & Webcam	Direct USB-C, unlimited streaming	USB-C, but limited streaming options

While Sony’s ZV-1 Mark II has a faster lens, the Canon PowerShot V1 offers better video performance, superior autofocus, and longer recording times—making it a better choice for serious content creators.

Final Thoughts: Is the PowerShot V1 the Future of Compact Cameras?

The Canon PowerShot V1 is one of the most exciting compact cameras in years. It successfully combines:

✅ A large sensor for better image quality
✅ Powerful video features like 4K60 and Canon Log 3
✅ Reliable autofocus and image stabilization
✅ A built-in cooling system for long recordings

With Sony dominating the compact vlogging camera market, the PowerShot V1 is Canon’s strongest response yet—offering a compelling alternative for hybrid creators.

The only drawback? It’s not launching worldwide yet. Currently, the camera is only available in Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, China, and Taiwan, with no confirmed U.S. or European release date.