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Camera faceoff

FX30 vs FX3A

Sony

Specs at a glance

Spec
Category
cinema
cinema
Sensor
APS-C CMOS
Full-Frame CMOS
Sensor Size
23.3 x 15.5 mm
35.6 x 23.8 mm
Megapixels
26
10.2
Mount
Sony E
Sony E
Max Resolution
4K UHD (3840x2160)
4K DCI (4096x2160)
Max Frame Rate
240fps @ 1080p
240fps @ 1080p
Codec
XAVC S-I, XAVC HS, XAVC S
XAVC S-I, XAVC HS, XAVC S, H.265, H.264
Dynamic Range
14+ stops
15 Stops
ISO Range
ISO 50–102400
ISO 80–409600
ND Filter
Stabilization
Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
Autofocus
Phase-detect, 495 points
Phase-detect, 759 points
Log / Gamma
HDR-HLG, S Cinetone, Sony S-Log 3
HDR-HLG, S Cinetone, Sony S-Log 2, Sony S-Log 3, Standard
Battery
NP-FZ100
NP-FZ100
Weight
562g
640g
MSRP
$1,800
$3,898

Summary

For filmmakers prioritizing budget and a versatile APS-C workflow, the FX30 is the clear choice, offering 26MP and 4K 120fps at nearly half the price. However, for professional productions demanding exceptional low-light capabilities and the full-frame look, the FX3A's 12.1MP full-frame sensor and 15+ stops of dynamic range are unmatched.

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Highlights

FX30

  • Value & Accessibility: Priced at $1800, it offers an accessible entry point into Sony's Cinema Line.
  • Sensor & Resolution: 26MP Exmor R APS-C CMOS sensor provides excellent detail and flexibility for cropping.
  • High Frame Rates: Captures 4K up to 120fps and HD up to 240fps for impactful slow-motion.
  • Compact & Lightweight: At 646g, it's highly portable for run-and-gun or gimbal work.

FX3A

  • Low Light Performance: Full-frame 12.1MP Exmor R CMOS sensor with an ISO range up to 409600 excels in dim conditions.
  • Dynamic Range: Delivers 15+ stops of dynamic range (S-Log3) for extensive grading latitude.
  • Image Stabilization: Features robust 5-axis in-body image stabilization for smooth handheld footage.
  • Full-Frame Look: Provides the shallow depth of field and wide field of view characteristic of full-frame sensors.

The trade-off

Choosing the FX30 means sacrificing the superior low-light performance and 5-axis IBIS of a full-frame sensor. Choosing the FX3A means a significantly higher investment at $3898 and a lower 12.1MP resolution for potential cropping.

Best for…

Budget-conscious filmmakers

FX30

exceptional value at $1800 for a cinema camera.

Low-light narrative

FX3A

full-frame 12.1MP sensor with ISO up to 409600 is unmatched.

Run-and-gun documentary

FX3A

5-axis IBIS and superior low light handle unpredictable conditions.

Vlogging / Solo Creator

FX30

lighter body and APS-C lenses are more manageable for handheld.

High-resolution stills/cropping

FX30

26MP APS-C sensor offers more detail than 12.1MP full-frame.

What to pair it with

Updated 3/3/2026