Tokyo — Sony has expanded its compact cinema camera lineup with the new FX5, bringing pro-level features to a smaller body. The camera sits above the FX3, which will continue to be sold alongside it.

The FX5 is aimed at filmmakers who need high-resolution recording, better dynamic range, and flexible framing in a compact form factor.

New Sensor and Processing

The FX5 features a brand new 16.6MP full-frame, fully-stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor paired with Sony’s BIONZ XR2 processor with built-in AI.

Video capabilities at launch include:

  • Up to 5K 60fps and 4K 120fps
  • 5K 120fps and 4K 240fps to be added later via firmware update

Headline Feature: Open Gate Recording

The biggest addition is open gate recording. This lets the FX5 use the full 3:2 area of the sensor for video, instead of a cropped 16:9.

It makes better use of the sensor’s pixels and is especially useful for creators who need to crop for vertical formats like 9:16 for social media, without losing resolution.

Internal 16-bit RAW and Dynamic Range

Sony has also added 16-bit linear RAW recording internally — no external recorder needed. It can capture the full 3:2 sensor readout in 5K 60fps RAW now, and 5K 120fps RAW after the update.

The camera uses Sony’s professional X-OCN format with LT, C1, and C2 codec options for different compression levels.

Other imaging upgrades:

  • Dual Gain Shooting — first for an FX camera — combines low and high gain for better dynamic range and cleaner low-light
  • Three base ISOs: ISO 800, ISO 4000, ISO 12800 
  • 15+ stops of dynamic range claimed

AI Autofocus and New Body Design

The FX5 gets AI-based human pose estimation AF and Auto Tracing White Balance using visible and IR sensor data. You can also turn off in-camera noise reduction.

For lens users, there’s a de-squeeze mode for anamorphic lenses. Note: AF is disabled in this mode.

Physical changes vs FX3:

  • Larger 3.5-inch, 2.76M-dot fully articulating touchscreen
  • Built-in cooling fan
  • Larger NP-SA100 battery
  • Dual USB-C ports for power and data, plus wired LAN
  • New menu system borrowed from CineAlta cameras

There’s no built-in EVF, but Sony will offer the new DVF-EL1 detachable viewfinder. An XLR-H2 handle is also available as an accessory.

Price and Availability

  • $4,900 body-only
  • $5,500 with XLR-H2 handle
  • On sale from mid-August 2026.

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