Sony ICD-UX570 vs Zoom H4essential

Side-by-side comparison of two portable recorders options. Tap either name to open the full product page.

Our Pick

Sony ICD-UX570

The Sony ICD-UX570 edges out the Zoom H4essential with significantly more reviews (8,900 vs 2,340), a lower price ($79 vs $220). It delivers better value for most buyers.

$794.4 · 8,900 reviewsBuy the Winner on Amazon →
Sony
ICD-UX570
$79
4.48.9K
Zoom
Zoom H4essential
$220
4.62.3K

Quick verdict

Feature-by-feature comparison

FeatureSony ICD-UX570Zoom H4essential
Price$79$220
Rating4.44.6
Reviews8,9002,340
Value score22.07.0
Recent purchases5K+1K+
Key specsStereo, S-Microphone, 4GB, USB built-in, MP3/LPCM32-bit float, 4-ch, 2 XLR inputs, USB audio
Ideal useCompact voice recorder for meetings and interviewsBand recording/podcast

Value score = (rating x log(reviews)) / price. Higher is better.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Sony ICD-UX570 and Zoom H4essential?

The Sony ICD-UX570 is priced at $79 with a 4.4/5 rating from 8,900 reviews. The Zoom H4essential is priced at $220 with a 4.6/5 rating from 2,340 reviews. Key specs: Sony ICD-UX570 — Stereo, S-Microphone, 4GB, USB built-in, MP3/LPCM. Zoom H4essential — 32-bit float, 4-ch, 2 XLR inputs, USB audio.

Which is cheaper, the Sony ICD-UX570 or the Zoom H4essential?

The Sony ICD-UX570 is cheaper at $79, compared to $220 for the other model. The price difference is $141.

Which has better reviews, the Sony ICD-UX570 or the Zoom H4essential?

The Zoom H4essential is rated higher at 4.6/5. The Sony ICD-UX570 has more reviews with 8,900 ratings.

Which portable recorders should I buy — the Sony ICD-UX570 or the Zoom H4essential?

It depends on your use case. The Sony ICD-UX570 is ideal for: Compact voice recorder for meetings and interviews. The Zoom H4essential is ideal for: Band recording/podcast. If budget is the deciding factor, the Sony ICD-UX570 is the more affordable option.

Looking at other options? Browse the full portable recorders catalog or see the comparison index.