Sony's FX series of cinema cameras has been making waves in the professional video production industry, offering filmmakers a range of options to suit their needs and budgets. In this blog post, we'll compare three popular models: the Sony FX6, FX3, and FX30, highlighting their key features and differences to help you decide which one might be right for your projects.
The Sony FX6 and FX3 both feature full-frame sensors, while the FX30 utilizes an APS-C sensor12. This difference in sensor size affects the cameras' performance in various ways:
: The FX30 boasts a 26-megapixel sensor, compared to the 12-megapixel sensors in the FX6 and FX32. This higher resolution allows the FX30 to capture sharper images, albeit with a crop factor.
: The full-frame sensors in the FX6 and FX3 generally provide better low-light capabilities. The FX6, in particular, shines with its impressive dual base ISO of 800/128005.
: While all three cameras offer excellent dynamic range, the full-frame models (FX6 and FX3) tend to have a slight edge in this department3.
All three cameras are capable of producing high-quality 4K video, but there are some differences in their recording options:
: The FX6 can shoot DCI 4K up to 60fps, QFHD 4K up to 120fps, and FHD 1080p up to 240fps5. The FX3 and FX30 offer similar capabilities, with the FX30 able to record 4K/120p 10-bit 4:2:2 All-Intra internally1.
: The FX30 uses 6K oversampling to produce its 4K output, which contributes to its impressive image quality14.
: The FX6 supports 16-bit RAW data output to an external recorder via SDI5, providing more flexibility in post-production.
The FX6 stands out with its box-style cinema camera design, while the FX3 and FX30 feature a more compact, rangefinder-style mirrorless body2. This difference in form factor affects their usability in different shooting scenarios:
: The FX6 is the heaviest at 890g, followed by the FX3 at 716g, and the FX30 at 646g2.
: The FX6 is larger, measuring 116 x 114 x 153 mm, compared to the identical dimensions of the FX3 and FX30 at 130 x 78 x 85 mm2.
: The FX6 includes built-in ND filters, a feature not present in the FX3 or FX305.
All three cameras benefit from Sony's advanced autofocus system:
The FX6 and FX3 feature 627 phase-detection AF points5, while the FX30 boasts 759 AF points2.
Face and eye-tracking technology is available across all models, enhancing their usability for run-and-gun shooting situations.
The FX30 is positioned as the most affordable option in the lineup, making it an attractive choice for those looking to enter the world of cinema cameras or as a B-camera for existing setups1. The FX3 sits in the middle, offering full-frame capabilities in a compact body, while the FX6 represents the top-tier option with its professional-grade features and build quality.
Sony FX3 https://amzn.to/43CgPZx
Sony FX30 https://amzn.to/3D2o1mR
Sony FX6
Conclusion
Choosing between the Sony FX6, FX3, and FX30 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget:
The FX6 is ideal for professional productions requiring top-tier image quality and advanced features.
The FX3 offers a great balance of full-frame quality and compact size for versatile shooting scenarios.
The FX30 provides excellent value with its high-resolution APS-C sensor and impressive video capabilities at a more accessible price point.
Consider your shooting style, budget, and the types of projects you typically work on when making your decision. Each of these cameras has its strengths, and they all continue Sony's tradition of producing high-quality cinema cameras for filmmakers at various levels.