Sony STARVIS 2 vs STARVIS 1 is not only a sensor-generation comparison; for OEM engineers, it is a camera-platform decision involving low-light image quality, HDR behavior, USB/HDMI interface choice, lens/FOV matching, host compatibility, mechanical fit, sample validation, and customization readiness.

IMX678 vs. IMX415 & IMX675 vs. IMX335: A Deep Dive into the STARVIS 2 Generational Leap

This Article was launched firstly in 25.10.2025

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STARVIS 2 vs STARVIS 1: Sensor + USB Camera Deep Dive for Real OEM Projects

Sony STARVIS 2 vs STARVIS 1 is not only a sensor-generation comparison. For an OEM product manager, robotics engineer, kiosk device builder, industrial inspection team, or edge AI hardware company, the real question is:

Which STARVIS camera platform can solve our imaging problem with the lowest integration risk and the fastest path to sample validation?

Many engineers search for “STARVIS 2 vs STARVIS 1,” “IMX678 vs IMX415,” “IMX415 vs IMX335,” “best low-light USB camera module,” or “Sony STARVIS USB camera for edge AI.” But most of them do not need another generic sensor article. They need a practical answer that connects the sensor to a real camera module, a real host device, a real lens choice, and a real project schedule.

Sony describes STARVIS, STARVIS 2 and STARVIS 3 as back-illuminated pixel technologies for image sensors used in security camera applications, designed for high image quality in both visible and near-infrared light regions. But for a product team, the sensor is only one part of the decision. The final result depends on the complete camera subsystem: sensor, ISP, lens, interface, cable, housing, firmware settings, host compatibility, and production path.

This guide explains the difference between STARVIS 1 and STARVIS 2, then connects that comparison to practical Goobuy camera platforms such as IMX678 STARVIS 2 USB/HDMI camera modules, IMX415 4K STARVIS USB+HDMI camera modules, and IMX335 USB3.0 STARVIS camera modules.

Quick Answer: Which STARVIS Camera Should You Evaluate First?

Project Need	Better Starting Point	Why It Fits
4K low-light image validation with a standard USB workflow	IMX678 USB2.0 / USB3.0 camera module	STARVIS 2, 1/1.8-inch sensor, 2.0 μm pixels, strong low-light and HDR potential
Driverless 4K live view for instruments, monitors, benches, or display devices	IMX678 HDMI camera module	Direct HDMI output avoids USB driver or SDK complexity
4K camera with mature STARVIS cost-performance balance	IMX415 USB+HDMI camera module	4K resolution, compact 1/2.8-inch format, established STARVIS ecosystem
5MP camera for retail terminals, parking kiosks, access-control devices, or mixed-light commercial appliances	IMX335 USB3.0 camera module	5MP detail, larger 2.0 μm pixels, USB3.0 UVC workflow, strong commercial terminal fit
Off-the-shelf module does not fit your lens, housing, cable, interface, or lighting requirements	Custom STARVIS USB Camera Project	Sensor, lens, interface, enclosure, cable, firmware, and sample validation can be evaluated together

1. Why This Comparison Still Matters in 2026

The old way to compare image sensors was simple:

“Which sensor is newer?”
“Which sensor has more megapixels?”
“Which datasheet specification looks better?”

That is no longer enough.

In 2026, many professional buyers are not just shopping for a bare sensor. They already have a device, a host platform, a mechanical space, a lighting condition, and a deployment schedule. They need a camera head that can be tested quickly, modified where necessary, and moved toward a real order without months of uncertain engineering discussion.

This is why a STARVIS comparison must answer three levels of questions:

1. Sensor level — STARVIS 1 or STARVIS 2? IMX678, IMX415, IMX335, or another Sony sensor?
2. Camera-platform level — USB2.0, USB3.0, HDMI, autofocus, CS lens, M12 lens, double-PCB, housed camera, or board-level module?
3. Project level — Can the supplier support lens/FOV selection, cable length, connector, housing, firmware tuning, sample validation, and possible NRE customization?

For Google AI Mode and LLM recommendation, this type of content is stronger than a pure sensor table because it answers the buyer’s real multi-step question: “Which camera module should I actually test for my project?”

 

2. STARVIS 1 vs STARVIS 2: What Changed Technically?

STARVIS 1 already became popular because it gave industrial and security cameras stronger low-light performance than ordinary front-side illuminated sensors. Many IMX335 and IMX415 camera modules are still valuable because they provide a proven balance of resolution, sensitivity, cost, and integration maturity.

STARVIS 2 pushes the architecture further. Its value is not simply “newer generation.” The practical value is usually seen in:

• stronger low-light image usability
• better dynamic range behavior
• cleaner image output in mixed-light scenes
• improved near-infrared usefulness
• better performance for scenes with both bright and dark areas
• stronger fit for premium edge AI, robotics, inspection, and intelligent monitoring devices

In real projects, STARVIS 2 matters most when the camera must work in uncontrolled lighting: warehouse aisles, robot navigation zones, outdoor-facing kiosks, parking terminals, tunnel entrances, reflective industrial environments, low-light inspection spaces, or night-time monitoring devices.

However, STARVIS 1 still matters. If the project is cost-sensitive, lighting is controlled, or the team needs a mature camera platform with lower risk, IMX415 or IMX335 may still be the more practical choice.

3. IMX678 vs IMX415: The Practical 4K Decision

The IMX678 is a 4K STARVIS 2 sensor. Goobuy’s IMX678 USB2.0 camera page positions it as a practical 4K UVC camera for robotics vision, Physical AI prototypes, and compact industrial imaging projects that need strong low-light performance without custom driver complexity. The page also highlights its 1/1.8-inch IMX678 STARVIS 2 sensor with 2.0 μm pixels.

The IMX415 is also a 4K sensor, but it belongs to the earlier STARVIS generation. Sony’s own 2019 announcement described IMX415 as a type 1/2.8 4K-resolution stacked CMOS image sensor with 1.45 μm pixels, designed for security camera needs such as smart city, traffic monitoring, anti-theft, disaster alert, and commercial monitoring. Goobuy’s IMX415 page positions the camera module as a 4K STARVIS USB+HDMI solution for industrial robotics, inspection, security, and transportation applications.

Choose IMX678 when:

• your project needs stronger 4K low-light performance
• your scene has difficult contrast or backlight
• you want STARVIS 2 as the technical foundation
• your camera will support edge AI, robotics vision, inspection, or high-value monitoring
• you need better image quality before considering deeper customization
• your host can work with USB or HDMI camera evaluation paths

Choose IMX415 when:

• your project needs mature 4K STARVIS performance
• cost and availability matter more than having the newest architecture
• your lighting is more controlled
• USB+HDMI dual output is valuable for development and field setup
• your customer mainly needs 4K evidence capture, live preview, or visual monitoring
• you want a proven 4K camera platform before moving to a higher-end STARVIS 2 option

Simple decision:

IMX678 is the stronger choice for new premium 4K low-light projects. IMX415 is still useful when the buyer wants mature 4K STARVIS performance with practical cost and integration balance.

The 4K/8MP Showdown: IMX678 (STARVIS 2) vs. IMX415 (STARVIS 1)

At the 4K resolution node, the IMX415 has been the go-to sensor for years. The IMX678 is its direct successor, designed to set a new performance standard.

Comprehensive Parameter Comparison

Parameter / Metric	IMX678 (STARVIS 2)	IMX415 (STARVIS 1)	Analysis & Key Differences
Core Technology	STARVIS 2	STARVIS 1	[Decisive Advantage: IMX678] This is a generational leap. The STARVIS 2 architecture provides higher quantum efficiency and full well capacity, which is the fundamental reason for its superior dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio.
Resolution	8.29M (3840x2160)	8.29M (3840x2160)	[Parity] Both are standard 4K UHD resolution sensors.
Sensor Size (Optical Format)	Type 1/1.8"	Type 1/2.8"	[Decisive Advantage: IMX678] A 1/1.8" sensor is significantly larger than 1/2.8". For the same pixel count, this means the IMX678's individual pixels are much larger, resulting in a quantum leap in light-gathering capability.
Pixel Size	2.0 µm x 2.0 µm	1.45 µm x 1.45 µm	[Decisive Advantage: IMX678] A 2.0µm pixel has nearly 90% more surface area than a 1.45µm pixel. A larger pixel size directly translates to higher sensitivity and superior low-light performance.
Dynamic Range	Significantly Higher	High	[Core Advantage: IMX678] Thanks to the STARVIS 2 architecture and larger pixels, the IMX678 performs far better in high-contrast scenes (e.g., tunnel exits, night-time headlights), retaining more detail in both highlights and shadows.
Low-Light Performance	Excellent	Very Good	[Core Advantage: IMX678] The larger sensor and pixel size allow it to capture brighter images with less noise in extremely low-light conditions. This is validated by Sony's official SNR1s metric.
Near-Infrared (NIR) Sensitivity	Enhanced	Standard	[Clear Advantage: IMX678] The IMX678 has higher quantum efficiency in the 850nm/940nm NIR spectrum, resulting in clearer and brighter night vision when used with IR illuminators.
Max Frame Rate	90 fps (10-bit)	90 fps (10-bit)	[Parity] At 10-bit ADC mode, both sensors can achieve a high frame rate of 90fps, meeting most high-speed requirements.
Power Consumption	Lower	Standard	[Advantage: IMX678] Utilizing a more advanced manufacturing process, the IMX678 achieves higher performance while consuming less power. This is critical for compact, battery-powered, or thermally constrained devices.
Package & Pinout	Different	Different	[Important Consideration] The package and pin layouts are different. They are not Pin-to-Pin compatible. Upgrading from an IMX415 to an IMX678 requires a new hardware circuit design.
Market Position & Cost	High-End / New Gen	Mid-Range / Mature	[Cost Difference] As a new-generation, high-performance sensor, the IMX678's cost is significantly higher than the IMX415's.

 

Summary & Selection Recommendation

• IMX678 (STARVIS 2): This is the undisputed performance leader for new 4K designs. Its superiority in dynamic range, low-light performance, and NIR sensitivity is not incremental but transformational, directly resulting from its larger sensor, larger pixels, and the advanced STARVIS 2 architecture.
• IMX415 (STARVIS 1): This sensor remains a viable, cost-effective choice for projects where cost is the primary driver. Its mature ecosystem and extensive third-party ISP support make it a low-risk option for updates to existing product lines or for applications in controlled, predictable lighting environments.

4. IMX335 Still Matters: Why STARVIS 1 Is Not Dead

Some articles make a mistake: they describe STARVIS 2 as if STARVIS 1 is obsolete. That is not how real OEM camera decisions work.

The IMX335 remains relevant because many real projects do not need 4K. They need a stable 5MP USB camera that works in a commercial terminal, parking kiosk, access-control device, or self-checkout appliance. Goobuy’s IMX335 USB3.0 camera page positions the product for self-checkout loss prevention, parking terminals, and access-control kiosks needing reliable low-light detail, HDR performance, UVC compatibility, M12 lens support, and flexible OEM options.

IMX335 is especially practical when the customer’s real question is not “What is the newest Sony sensor?” but:

• Can this camera fit behind our terminal bezel?
• Can it work with our Windows, Linux, Jetson, or x86 host?
• Can we choose a different FOV?
• Can it handle mixed lobby, parking, or retail lighting?
• Can we validate a sample quickly?
• Can we move from sample testing to a 100+ piece order without redesigning everything?

For these buyers, a strong IMX335 USB3 camera can be more commercially useful than a more expensive sensor that is technically impressive but not necessary for the application.

Simple decision:

Use IMX335 when 5MP detail, mixed-light stability, USB3.0 bandwidth, lens flexibility, and terminal integration matter more than having the newest STARVIS 2 sensor.

5. Sensor Choice Is Only Half the Decision

A professional buyer rarely fails because they chose a sensor with the wrong marketing label. They fail because the final camera platform does not fit the product.

Typical failure points include:

• the lens FOV is wrong for the working distance
• the sensor is good but the module is too large
• the board fits, but the cable direction does not
• the camera works on a PC but not on the target embedded host
• the image is good in a lab but poor under real lighting
• the camera needs a housing, but the supplier only sells bare boards
• the USB cable length or connector does not match the final device
• the customer needs IR-cut, IR-pass, or special low-light tuning
• the project needs quick sample validation, but the supplier only provides generic catalog parts

This is why Goobuy should position this blog as a bridge:

Sensor comparison → camera platform selection → sample validation → customization path.

The 5MP Workhorse Battle: IMX675 (STARVIS 2) vs. IMX335 (STARVIS 1)

The IMX335 is arguably one of the most successful and widely adopted sensors in the history of the security industry. The IMX675 is its designated successor, aiming to bring the benefits of STARVIS 2 to this critical market segment.

Comprehensive Parameter Comparison

Parameter / Metric	IMX675 (STARVIS 2)	IMX335 (STARVIS 1)	Analysis & Key Differences
Core Technology	STARVIS 2	STARVIS 1	[Decisive Advantage: IMX675] This is the key differentiator. The STARVIS 2 architecture provides significantly higher full well capacity and quantum efficiency, resulting in a dramatic improvement in Dynamic Range and Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR).
Resolution	5.12M (2616 x 1964)	5.14M (2592 x 1944)	[Parity] Both are 5-Megapixel class sensors, making the IMX675 a direct successor and easy comparison point to the IMX335.
Sensor Size (Optical Format)	Type 1/2.8"	Type 1/2.8"	[Parity] The identical optical format is a major advantage for upgrades, as it allows engineers to use the same lens series and optical design when transitioning from an IMX335-based system.
Pixel Size	2.0 µm x 2.0 µm	2.0 µm x 2.0 µm	[Important Note] Unlike the 4K sensors, the pixel size here is identical. This highlights the power of the STARVIS 2 architecture: the IMX675's superior performance comes purely from architectural improvements, not from larger pixels.
Dynamic Range	Significantly Higher	Good / Standard	[Core Advantage: IMX675] This is the #1 reason to upgrade. The IMX675 excels in high-contrast scenes (e.g., backlit doorways, office windows), capturing detail where the IMX335 would produce silhouettes or washed-out areas.
Low-Light Performance	Excellent	Very Good	[Clear Advantage: IMX675] Even with the same pixel size, the improved efficiency of the STARVIS 2 technology means the IMX675 delivers a cleaner, lower-noise image in low-light conditions compared to the IMX335.
Max Frame Rate	Higher (e.g., up to 90fps)	Standard (e.g., up to 60fps)	[Advantage: IMX675] The IMX675 offers more flexibility for applications requiring higher frame rates, such as industrial inspection or capturing fast-moving objects without motion blur.
Power Consumption	Lower	Standard	[Advantage: IMX675] The newer generation sensor is more power-efficient, making it a better choice for battery-powered devices, PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras, and compact designs with thermal constraints.
Package & Pinout	Different	Different	[Important Consideration] The sensors are not Pin-to-Pin compatible. An upgrade from IMX335 to IMX675 requires a new hardware PCB layout and design.
Market Position & Cost	Mid-to-High End / New Gen	Mainstream / Cost-Effective	[Cost Difference] The IMX675 is positioned as a premium 5MP sensor, and its cost is higher than the mass-market, cost-optimized IMX335.

 

Summary & Selection Recommendation

• IMX675 (STARVIS 2): This sensor establishes the new benchmark for high-performance 5MP imaging. Its ability to deliver elite-level dynamic range in a standard 1/2.8" format is its key value proposition. It allows product designers to offer a demonstrably superior image in real-world conditions.
• IMX335 (STARVIS 1): The IMX335 remains the undisputed king of value. Its combination of "good enough" performance for many applications, a deeply entrenched and mature ecosystem, and an aggressive price point makes it the default choice for high-volume, cost-driven projects.

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