Sony FX5 Full-frame Cinema Line Camera with XLR handle

What’s new?

The Sony FX5 sits between the FX3 and FX6 in Sony’s Cinema Line, introducing a new imaging platform centred on a new 16.6MP full-frame Exmor RS CMOS sensor and the latest BIONZ XR2 processor with integrated AI processing. Faster sensor readout enables 5K Open Gate and internal RAW recording for the first time in the FX series while reducing rolling shutter and supporting over 15 stops of dynamic range. Three Base ISO settings, Dual Gain technology and improved Fast Hybrid AF provide greater exposure flexibility, lower shadow noise and more dependable subject tracking in low light. Expanded anamorphic de-squeeze support broadens compatibility with professional cinema lenses, and new high-speed 5K 60p and 4K 120p video capture will be upgraded further to 5K 120p and 4K 240p in a later firmware update

Operational refinements bring the FX5 closer to Sony’s higher-end Cinema Line models. A 3.5-inch 4-axis LCD monitor offers professional monitoring tools, and a new NP-SA100 battery increases continuous recording time to approximately 170 minutes for extended filming. Dual USB-C ports, HDMI RAW output, 2.5G Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 GHz and Bluetooth 5.3 expand connectivity for wired, wireless and remote production. Optional accessories, including the removable DVF-EL1 OLED Viewfinder, the new XLR-H2 XLR Handle Unit (included in this kit) with support for 96kHz 32-bit float audio, and the VMC-BNCU1 Timecode Adapter Cable, strengthen integration into professional production environments, marking a step forward in the compact Cinema Line.

Sensor and processing

The Sony FX5 combines a 16.6MP full-frame back-illuminated Exmor RS CMOS sensor with the latest BIONZ XR2 image processor and integrated AI processing unit. Together, they deliver faster sensor readout than the FX3, reducing rolling shutter for more natural rendering of fast-moving subjects while supporting higher recording speeds and wider recording formats. An optical low-pass filter helps suppress moiré and false-colour artefacts in fine textures and repeating patterns, reducing unwanted image artefacts.

The sensor and BIONZ XR2 processor deliver more than 15 stops of dynamic range when recording in S-Log3, preserving highlight and shadow information for colour grading in post-production. Three Base ISO settings of 800, 4000 and 12800 provide greater control over exposure across changing lighting conditions, and Dual Gain technology reduces shadow noise and expands tonal information in darker areas for cleaner image reproduction in low-light scenes.

5K Open Gate and recording formats

For the first time in the FX series, the FX5 records 5K Open Gate video using the full area of its 16.6MP full-frame sensor, bringing functionality closer to Sony’s higher-end cinema cameras. Recording from the entire sensor preserves maximum framing flexibility, allowing multiple aspect ratios to be produced from a single recording without changing camera position. It provides greater freedom when delivering content for cinema, broadcast and vertical formats while maintaining the full sensor field of view.

The FX5 supports internal X-OCN recording, a first in the FX series, allowing RAW footage to be recorded directly to compatible memory cards. Alongside XAVC HS and XAVC S, X-OCN provides a choice of recording formats to suit different filming and editing requirements. Recording RAW internally preserves image data for colour grading and other post-production adjustments, eliminating the need for external recording equipment.

Compared to the FX3 and FX6, the FX5 supports higher video frame rates. At launch, the FX5 supports recording at up to 4K 120p and 5K 60p* for higher-speed acquisition. These upgraded recording options allow formats to be selected based on image quality, frame rate and post-production requirements, supporting both real-time and high-speed slow-motion capture.

*Firmware update V2.0 planned for August 2027 or later will add 5K 120p and 4K 240p capture

Autofocus and stabilisation

Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF system combines up to 759 phase-detection points with contrast-detection autofocus across a broad area of the image sensor. The system identifies and tracks humans, animals and birds, maintaining focus as subjects move through the frame or change direction while delivering improved autofocus performance in low-light conditions. AF Transition Speed, AF Subject Shift Sensitivity, Focus Map and AF Assist provide additional control over autofocus behaviour during movie recording.

An image sensor-shift mechanism with 5-axis compensation reduces camera movement during handheld operation, helping maintain steadier framing when recording. Users can choose between Dynamic Active, Active, Standard or Off stabilisation modes to suit different shooting requirements. Image stabilisation performance depends on the attached lens, providing compatibility across a wide range of Sony E-mount lenses.

Design and operation

The FX5 retains the compact Cinema Line form factor while introducing a revised control layout and monitoring system for more efficient operation on set. The integrated 3.5-inch, four-axis, multi-angle LCD incorporates a 2.76-million-dot panel for improved image assessment across a wider range of viewing positions. The camera also uses a new high-capacity NP-SA100 battery, providing approximately 170 minutes of continuous recording.

For productions requiring additional monitoring capabilities, the optional, removable DVF-EL1 OLED Viewfinder with a 3.68-million-dot resolution, high brightness, wide colour gamut support and a 90-degree tilt mechanism can be purchased separately. This provides an additional viewing point for handheld, shoulder-mounted or tripod shooting without permanently increasing the camera’s size. The XLR-H2 XLR Handle Unit included in this kit supports four-channel audio recording at up to 96kHz 32-bit float, preserving a wide dynamic range while reducing the risk of clipped audio. Its ergonomic design also improves camera balance during handheld operation, supporting more stable handling over extended recording sessions.

Connectivity and media

The FX5 provides a broad range of wired and wireless connectivity options for recording, monitoring and networked production. Dual CFexpress Type A card slots also support SDXC UHS-I and UHS-II memory cards, allowing operators to prioritise performance, storage capacity or media compatibility according to project requirements.

A full-size HDMI Type A connector supports monitoring and RAW output to compatible external recorders and dual USB-C ports expand options for data transfer, tethered operation and external power. One USB-C port supports USB 3.2 Gen2 transfer speeds for faster media offloading. The second provides additional connectivity for compatible accessories. USB Power Delivery allows the camera to be powered continuously from compatible external power sources when extended operating times are required.

Integrated 2.5G Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi including 6GHz support, and Bluetooth 5.3 provide flexible networking for studio, location and remote shooting. The camera supports live streaming at up to 4K 60p, along with FTP transfers and USB tethering for direct file delivery and remote operation. Dedicated Timecode support via the optional VMC-BNCU1 Timecode Adapter Cable allows the FX5 to synchronise with compatible cameras and audio recorders, helping maintain accurate timing across multi-camera setups. Combined with HDMI RAW output, these connectivity options allow the FX5 to integrate efficiently into both single-camera and multi-camera production environments.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Sony FX5 Full-frame Cinema Line Camera
• 1 x Rechargeable Battery NP-SA100
• 1 x Battery Charger BC-SAD1
• 1 x Body Cap
• 1 x Accessory Shoe Cap
• 1 x VF Terminal Protect Cap
• 1 x XLR Handle Unit
• 1 x Handle Shoe Cap
• 1 x Accessory Shoe Kit