Specs at a glance
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.
Which would you pick?
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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
FX30
Atomos Ninja 5.2" 4K HDMI Recording Monitor
Atomos
Bescor Multi-Output V-Mount Battery Plate with FZ100 Dummy Battery
Bescor
Core SWX NANO Micro 147Wh Lithium-Ion Battery (V-Mount)
Core SWX
PGYTECH CreateMate CFexpress Type B/SD Card Reader Case (Moss Green)
PGYTECH
RODE VideoMic NTG Hybrid Analog/USB Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone
RODE
Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3 Moisture-Resistant Shotgun Microphone
Sennheiser
FX3A
8Sinn Cage for Sony FX3/FX30
8Sinn
Falcam F22, F38 & F50 Quick Release Basic Cage Kit for Sony FX3 and FX30
Falcam
Angelbird 160GB AV PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type A SE Memory Card
Angelbird
Bescor Multi-Output V-Mount Battery Plate with FZ100 Dummy Battery
Bescor
Tilta NP-FZ100 Lithium-ion Battery with USB-C - Green
Tilta
Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3 Moisture-Resistant Shotgun Microphone
Sennheiser