Sony is squeezing professional cinema features into a handheld package with the new FX5 5K cinema camera. Key specs include 3:2 open gate recording, internal 16-bit X-OCN, three base ISOs, high frame rates, expanded monitoring options, and more. The camera has a new 16.6MP full-frame fully stacked Exmor RS CMOS image sensor alongside a BIONZ XR2 chip with an integrated AI processing unit.
The FX5 has three base ISO settings, 800, 4000, and 12,800, enabling wider image latitude and cleaner shadows in a variety of environments. High frame rate options include 5K 60p, 4.5K 120p, and FHD 240p, with 4K 240p coming in a future firmware update. The camera has a Dual Gain setting for increased shadow retention resulting in 16+ stops of dynamic range, vs the native 15+ stops. The XR2 chip also assists in subject recognition, subject tracking, and Auto-Tracing White Balance (ATW).
One of the standout features is internal X-OCN (Extended Tonal Range Original Camera Negative) recording. This 16-bit linear raw codec produces smaller, easier to manage files compared to traditional Sony RAW and Apple ProRes, while still maintaining top level post-flexibility and over 280 trillion possible colors.
The FX5 can record in the LT and custom varietals, as well as traditional XAVC codecs. XAVC options include HS-L422, HS-L420, S-I, S-L422, and S-L420 depending on recording format. A future firmware update will bring 3:2 open gate to XAVC.
The FX5 has two CFexpress Type A/SDXC card slots and takes NP-SA100 batteries—the new Sony battery format that promises 130 minutes of 4K 60p recording. The body is lightweight, at only 750g, and compact, measuring 5.3 x 3.11 x 3.39". The LCD monitor is 3.5" wide, compared to the 3" screen on the FX3, and is now capable of 4-axis multi-angle adjustment. The screen is also 16:9 instead of 4:3, allowing for a more VENICE-style Big Six menu and cleaner on-camera info displays around the edge of the frame.
The body of the camera has been streamlined compared to other FX-line cameras, with fewer physical buttons, but users can still expect six assignable buttons and a versatile multi-function dial inherited from the VENICE 2. On the side of the camera is a full size HDMI, two USB-C ports, a mic jack, a headphone port, and an Ethernet/Lan port. There are ¼-20" threads on the top, bottom, and sides of the camera to assist with mounting and accessorizing.
The FX5 sports advanced AI-based Subject Recognition and Tracking with Human, Animal, and Bird modes, as well as improved In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) with roll correction and a Dynamic Active mode. Clear Image Zoom (CIZ) has also gotten an upgrade, now working simultaneously with optical zoom throughout the zoom range for smoother pulls. Sony also promises enhanced low-light auto focus-performance with the XR2 chip.
Image monitoring options include the classic histogram, zebra stripes, and customizable peaking, plus new false color, waveform, vector scope, and focus mapping functionality. Anamorphic De-Squeeze covers 1.3x, 1.5x, 1.6x, 1.8x, and 2.0x lenses. Connectivity features are headlined by tri-band Wi-Fi spanning 2.4, 5, and 6GHz networks for more stable connections. Expect deep integration with Sony's Monitor and Control smartphone app, as well as the brand's streaming and networking software.
The camera is available by itself or bundled with a new 96 kHz / 32-bit float-capable XLR top handle. Additional optional accessories are a tilting removable 3.68M OLED EVF with wide color gamut compatibility and a peak brightness of 2500 cd/m², as well as a USB-C to BNC Timecode cable. Sony expects the FX5 to prove popular with cinematographers, high-end content creators, established freelancers, student filmmakers, and anyone looking to mix performance with portability.
For more information about the new Sony FX5 and its accessories, including features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product pages.
