Sony India has introduced the FX5, a new full-frame camera in its Cinema Line series. The company has also introduced optional accessories, including a detachable OLED viewfinder and an XLR handle unit.
Sony FX5 Cinema Line camera
The Sony FX5 features a full-frame fully stacked Exmor RS CMOS image sensor paired with the BIONZ XR2 image processing engine, which includes a dedicated AI processing unit.
Key features of the Sony FX5
- Dynamic range and ISO: 15+ stops of dynamic range when shooting in S-Log3, with base ISO settings of 800, 4000 and 12800. Dual Gain Shooting, introduced for the first time in the FX series, reduces noise without compromising shadow detail and provides wider latitude and smooth gradation.
- Video recording: 5K at up to 60fps, 4K at up to 120fps and Full HD at up to 240fps.
- Open Gate and RAW recording: 3:2 full-pixel readout across the entire image sensor, with 17:9, 16:9 and Super 35mm scan modes. It supports internal recording in Sony’s 16-bit scene-linear X-OCN RAW format, including X-OCN LT, X-OCN C1 and X-OCN C2 codecs. The C1 and C2 codecs reduce file sizes while retaining image quality.
- Autofocus: AI-based human pose estimation detects a person’s eyes, head and body, including in dark scenes. Real-time Tracking automatically follows subjects to maintain focus.
- White balance: Auto Tracing White Balance (ATW) uses visible light and infrared sensors, along with deep learning-based light source estimation, to provide more stable and natural white balance in shaded and indoor environments.
- Image stabilisation: 5-axis optical in-body image stabilisation with Active Mode and Dynamic Active Mode. The roll correction range is approximately twice that of the previous system, reducing rotational blur.
- Image settings: Switchable noise suppression and a de-squeeze function for 1.3x, 1.5x, 1.6x, 1.8x and 2.0x anamorphic lenses.
- LCD monitor: 3.5-type, approximately 2.76-million-dot, 16:9 touch-panel 4-axis multi-angle display, larger than the FX3’s monitor. It tilts approximately 98 degrees upward and 40 degrees downward and opens approximately 180 degrees sideways. The high-brightness panel offers 15 brightness adjustment levels.
- Audio: Up to four-channel audio input with the optional XLR-H2 handle unit.
The FX5 has a compact, lightweight flat-top body for handheld shooting, gimbal operation and filming in confined spaces. Its LCD displays shooting information along the top, bottom and sides without covering the image. The BIG6 home screen groups frame rate, exposure and LUT settings, while the new menu system offers operability similar to Sony’s CineAlta cameras and FX6.
For cooling, the camera uses a high-efficiency fan in an independent air chamber and an optimised heat dissipation design. Its dust- and moisture-resistant body has screw holes for attaching accessories without a cage. Connectivity options include two USB Type-C ports, USB Power Delivery (PD), wired LAN and HDMI output. The HDMI connection can display different information on the camera and an external monitor or show the same information on both.
The FX5 supports the recently released NP-SA100 rechargeable battery pack, which has a 2670mAh capacity, approximately 1.3 times that of the Z-series NP-FZ100 battery. Coordinated power management improves battery life, and the camera displays the battery pack’s deterioration status. USB PD also allows external power for long-duration recording.
Sony plans to release a version 2.0 update in August 2027 or later. It will add HFR recording at up to 240fps in X-OCN, XAVC S-I recording in 3:2 Open Gate format, an optimised user interface for vertical shooting and a frame grab function.
The camera includes a screen reader that reads menus aloud and an enlarged menu display. The mount index, multi-function dial and buttons use shapes and tactile features to support operation without relying solely on visual confirmation. Sony said approximately 30% or more of the camera’s parts are made from recycled plastic. Its production sites in Thailand and China use 100% renewable energy, while plant-derived nonwoven fabric is used for product wrapping bags and other packaging to reduce plastic use.
Optional accessories
Sony has introduced three optional accessories for the FX5.
DVF-EL1 OLED Detachable Viewfinder
The DVF-EL1 features a 0.58-type OLED panel with approximately 7.07-million dots, HDR display, a DCI-P3-equivalent colour gamut and 10-bit gradation. It allows users to check subject colours and monitor details in high-contrast scenes. The viewfinder offers approximately 0.9x magnification, display modes that prioritise resolution or eye point, and upward tilt of up to approximately 90 degrees.
XLR-H2 XLR Handle Unit
The XLR-H2 has two XLR/TRS combo terminals and supports up to four-channel audio input. Its dual AD converters digitise microphone signals with high precision and a wide dynamic range. It connects through the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe and supports in-camera recording at up to 96kHz/32-bit float. The handle also improves stability during handheld shooting, including documentary and news-gathering work.
VMC-BNCU1 Timecode Adapter Cable
The VMC-BNCU1 connects through USB-C to BNC and allows the FX5 to receive timecode from external devices. It supports synchronisation with multiple cameras and external audio devices for multicamera shooting, broadcasting and filmmaking.
Monitor & Control application
Sony’s Monitor & Control application supports video monitoring and remote camera operation from smartphones, tablets and Mac. Version 3.0 adds multicamera monitoring and control for vertical video shooting and EL Zone exposure monitoring. The app supports both wired and wireless video monitoring for production workflows, including social media and other distribution channels.
Pricing and availability
The Sony FX5 and its optional accessories are available starting today at Sony Authorised Retail Outlets, Sony Camera Lounge, Alpha Flagship stores, Sony Center, ShopatSC.com and major electronic stores in India.
- Sony FX5: Rs. 5,61,990
- Sony FX5B: Rs. 5,09,990
- DVF-EL1 OLED Detachable Viewfinder: Rs. 1,05,990
- XLR-H2 XLR Handle Unit: Rs. 1,33,990
- VMC-BNCU1 Timecode Adapter Cable: Rs. 13,990
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Mukesh Srivastava, Head-Imaging & Professional Solution Business, Sony India, said,
The FX5 camera is the newest addition to our Cinema Line series, developed to meet the evolving demands of modern filmmakers and Cinematographers. With its newly developed full-frame sensor, internal RAW recording capabilities, and first-ever Open Gate shooting support in the FX series, it empowers creators with unparalleled creative flexibility and cinematic expression. At Sony, we remain deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of imaging technology, and the FX5 is a testament to our dedication to equipping creators with tools that bring their vision to life, regardless of the shooting environment.