Sony FX5 cinema camera launch explained
The Sony FX5 Cinema Camera is a new full-frame model in Sony’s Cinema Line, with Open Gate recording and internal X-OCN RAW.
The FX5 uses a newly developed fully stacked CMOS image sensor and Sony’s BIONZ XR2 image-processing engine. Sony positions it as a portable production camera for filmmakers and video teams that need advanced recording tools without moving to a much larger cinema body.
Sony FX5 key specifications
- Full-frame fully stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor
- BIONZ XR2 image-processing engine
- More than 15 stops of dynamic range in S-Log3, according to Sony
- Base ISO settings of 800, 4000 and 12800
- 3:2 Open Gate recording
- Internal X-OCN RAW recording
- 5K recording at up to 60 frames per second
- 4K recording at up to 120 frames per second
- Full HD recording at up to 240 frames per second
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Sony also says the camera supports X-OCN LT, C1 and C2 recording options. These formats are intended to retain image quality while reducing the amount of data that must be transferred and stored during post-production.
What Open Gate recording means
Open Gate recording uses the full 3:2 sensor area instead of limiting capture to a standard widescreen frame. This gives filmmakers more flexibility when reframing the same footage for cinema, television, social media and vertical-video formats.
On the FX5, Sony says Open Gate is available when recording in X-OCN. The camera also supports other scan modes, including 17:9, 16:9 and Super 35mm.
Internal RAW and production workflow
The FX5 can record Sony’s 16-bit scene-linear X-OCN RAW format internally. This removes the need for an external RAW recorder in supported workflows and may help reduce the overall size and complexity of a camera rig.
The camera also includes AI-assisted subject recognition, real-time tracking, anamorphic desqueeze options and a fully articulating display. Sony has added a redesigned operating interface inspired by its larger cinema-camera systems.
Price and availability
Sony Europe lists the FX5 body at €5,400 or £4,700. The version supplied with the XLR handle is listed at €6,000 or £5,200. Sony notes that pricing may differ by country and region.
Pre-orders opened on July 22, 2026, with general availability expected from August 2026.
Sony FX5 price and availability in India
An official Indian retail price was not confirmed in the Sony information reviewed for this article.
Indian buyers will need to wait for Sony India or authorised retailers to publish local pricing, preorder information and the final launch timeline.
Optional accessories
Sony has announced two optional accessories alongside the camera:
- A detachable OLED electronic viewfinder
- An XLR handle supporting audio recording at up to 96 kHz and 32-bit float
The camera also supports USB Power Delivery, wired LAN connectivity, external timecode input through an optional adapter and integration with Sony’s Monitor & Control application.
Who the Sony FX5 may suit
Based on its confirmed features and compact form factor, the FX5 may appeal to independent filmmakers, documentary crews, commercial production teams and creators working with gimbals or smaller camera rigs.
This is an editorial assessment based on the camera’s announced capabilities rather than a direct statement from Sony.
What happens next
Sony plans to expand the FX5 through future firmware updates. Version 2.0 is currently planned for August 2027 or later and is expected to add higher-frame-rate X-OCN recording, additional Open Gate options, a vertical-shooting interface and a frame-grab function.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Sony FX5 support Open Gate recording?
Yes. Sony confirms that the FX5 supports 3:2 Open Gate recording when using X-OCN.
Can the Sony FX5 record RAW internally?
Yes. The camera supports internal recording in Sony’s 16-bit X-OCN RAW format.
What is the Sony FX5 price?
Sony Europe lists the body at €5,400 or £4,700. Pricing will vary by country and region.
When will the Sony FX5 be available?
Sony says the camera will be released from August 2026.
What is the Sony FX5 price in India?
An official Indian retail price was not confirmed in the Sony information reviewed for this article.
Further specifications and launch details are available in Sony’s official FX5 announcement.