oh man, i totally get the struggle. i've been vlogging with sony compacts for years and honestly... finding a grip that doesn't suck is harder than it looks. i actually bought the Sony GP-VPT2BT Shooting Grip with Wireless Remote Commander when it first dropped and i was honestly so disappointed. for the price, it's just way too short. unless u got crazy long arms, ur face is gonna fill the whole frame, which is literally the worst for a travel vlog. here's how i see it after trying a bunch of different setups over the years: Option A: The Sony GP-VPT2BT Shooting Grip with Wireless Remote Commander. it's convenient cuz of the wireless stuff, but it's overpriced and lacks height. i had issues with it feeling kinda plasticky and it just didn't live up to the hype for me. Option B: Ulanzi MT-44 Extendable Vlog Tripod. this is what i usually recommend now. it's way cheaper (saves u like $70) and the height is actually useful for desk setups too. it's not as 'pro' looking maybe, but it's way more functional for run-and-gun. Option C: SmallRig Selection Tabletop Tripod with Remote Control. this is the direct competitor to the sony grip. it's better value, but unfortunately, i've found the third-party remotes can be a bit glitchy. mine disconnected a few times mid-shoot which was super annoying. ngl if i were u, i'd probably grab the Ulanzi MT-44 Extendable Vlog Tripod. it fits in a backpack easily and gives u the height u actually need for the Sony ZV-1 II Vlog Camera. plus, u can spend the extra cash on some extra batteries cuz the ZV series battery life is... well, it's not great lol. anyway, hope that helps! gl with the vlogs 👍

Sooo I've been thinking about your ZV-1 II setup and honestly, I've had such a frustrating time finding a "perfect" grip too. Most are just way too short for a decent FOV when vlogging. If you want height without the bulk, definitely check out the PGYTECH MantisPod 2.0 with Remote Control. Its usually around $99 and the build quality is actually solid. It supports a 2kg payload which is overkill for a compact, but that means it wont wobble during desk setups. If thats pushing the budget, the JJC TP-S1 Wireless Remote Shooting Grip is basically a cheaper version of the OEM one for like $45. TBH though, height is still the issue there. For better desk stability, look at the Manfrotto MTPIXIEVO-BK PIXI EVO 2-Section Mini Tripod. It doesnt have a built-in remote but it's much sturdier for long sessions. You can always grab a cheap shutter trigger later. Good luck tho!

100% agree

Just found this thread. Honestly, I'm kinda disappointed with the expensive stuff, and I'm always scared my camera's gonna tip over. Here's what I recommend: - Ulanzi MT-40 Bluetooth Selfie Stick Tripod (~$35): Has the integrated controls you're after.
- SmallRig Desktop Tripod with Panoramic Ball Head (~$25): Way more stable for desk stuff. Unfortunately, the pricey grips arent as good as expected... just gotta be careful with height! gl!

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