This is not so much of a review as comparison of the Nikon V1 against the review I have already done on the Nikon J1. The way these cameras work and their performance is almost identical, so I’m not going to just do a copy-and-paste of the J1 review, I suggest you go and read that review first (here) and then come back to see why I ultimately ended up with a V1 after initially buying the J1.
The V1 isn’t as portable as the J1, which I could fit in my trouser pocket with the 10mm pancake lens on, but is it worth the extra bulk? I’ll go over the differences as I use it day to day, and then you can decide for yourself if it is worth it for you.
Important differences between the J1 and V1 in day-to-day use (not all differences!)…
- Built in viewfinder
- Much bigger battery
- No flash – optional external flash, but more powerful.
- Accessory port – attach GPS, dedicated flash or attach a mic (via a cold-shoe adapter)
- Bigger body makes it feel easier to hold, but less portable, and heavier.
- Mechanical shutter – electronic optional.
- Much larger buffer means more continuous shots at higher fps shooting
- 3.5mm microphone input jack
- Higher resolution LCD screen