Sony FX3 & Sony FX30 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Sony FX3 rather than the Sony FX30. 
Why Do I Recommend The Sony FX3?
- The Sony FX3 features a full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor for capturing true cinematic depth and superior low-light detail, while the Sony FX30 uses a smaller APS-C/Super 35 sensor with a 1.5× crop factor.
- Sony FX3 has dual native ISOs of 640 and 12,800 to maintain cleaner footage in dim environments, whereas the Sony FX30 uses dual ISOs of 800 and 2500 with less sensitivity in extreme low light.
- It supports full-frame 4K 120 fps recording with no sensor crop to preserve wide-angle framing, whereas the Sony FX30 applies a 1.6× crop when shooting at 120 fps.
- The Sony FX3 achieves up to 15+ stops of dynamic range for greater highlight and shadow recovery in post-production, whereas the Sony FX30 delivers up to 14+ stops.
- Sony FX3 includes direct timecode I/O through its Multi Terminal port for synchronized multi-camera setups, while the Sony FX30 requires an adapter cable for timecode support.
- It delivers faster sensor readout for reduced rolling-shutter distortion during quick pans, whereas the Sony FX30’s slower readout results in more noticeable skew in motion.
- Sony FX3 includes the XLR top handle in the box for professional balanced audio recording with phantom-powered microphones, while the Sony FX30 requires purchasing the optional XLR handle kit.
Maybe the Sony FX30 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Sony FX3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Sony FX3 | Sony FX30 |
| Sensor Type | Full-frame Exmor R CMOS | APS-C/Super 35 Exmor R CMOS |
| Sensor Size | 35.6 × 23.8 mm | 23.3 × 15.5 mm |
| Dual Base ISO | 640 / 12,800 | 800 / 2500 |
| Native ISO Range | 80–102,400 | 100–32,000 |
| Dynamic Range | Up to 15+ stops | Up to 14+ stops |
| Crop Factor | None | 1.5× |
| Frame Rate (4K 120p) | No crop | 1.6× crop |
| Full-Frame Coverage | Yes | No |
| Autofocus Points | 627 phase-detect | 495 phase-detect |
| Eye AF Support | Human / Animal | Human / Animal / Bird |
| Rolling Shutter Performance | Lower distortion | Slightly higher distortion |
| Audio XLR Handle | Included | Optional |
| HDMI Port Type | Full-size HDMI Type-A | Full-size HDMI Type-A |
| Battery Life (Video) | Approx. 95 min | Approx. 100 min |
| Weight | 715 g | 646 g |
| USB Port | USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Timecode Support | Built-in via Multi-Terminal | Via Adapter Cable |
| Recording Format | 4K from 6K full readout | 4K from 6K Super 35 readout |
| Video Bit Depth | 10-bit 4:2:2 | 10-bit 4:2:2 |
| Sensor Readout Speed | Faster | Slightly slower |
| Low-Light Sensitivity | Higher | Moderate |
| Price | Check Sony FX3 Price | Check Sony FX30 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- BIONZ XR Processor: Both cameras are powered by Sony’s BIONZ XR image processor, enabling fast readout speeds, accurate color science, and efficient handling of 4K 10-bit data during long takes.
- 4K Recording: Each model records 4K video internally, ensuring cinematic clarity and high detail retention suitable for professional productions.
- 10-bit 4:2:2 Internal Recording: Both cameras record in 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth, giving editors greater flexibility in color grading and reducing color banding in post-production.
- S-Cinetone Picture Profile: Each includes Sony’s S-Cinetone color profile, producing pleasing skin tones and cinematic color straight out of camera without extensive grading.
- 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization: Both models feature mechanical IBIS systems that compensate for hand shake and movement, ensuring smoother handheld footage.
- Active Cooling Fan: Each body integrates an active cooling fan, allowing unlimited recording times in warm environments without thermal shutdown.
- Dual Card Slots (CFexpress Type A / SD): Both cameras have dual media slots supporting CFexpress Type A and SD UHS-II cards, providing flexible storage options and simultaneous recording.
- Full-size HDMI Type-A Port: Each camera includes a full-size HDMI output for reliable external recording or monitoring with professional devices.
- Customizable Buttons: Each camera allows users to assign custom functions to multiple buttons, optimizing workflow for cinematographers and solo shooters.
- Tally Lamps (Front and Rear): Both models have tally lights on the front and back to clearly indicate recording status, helping crews and on-camera talent.
- Gyro Data Support for Catalyst Browse: Each camera records motion metadata compatible with Sony’s Catalyst software, enabling post-stabilization that mimics gimbal-level smoothness.
- S-Log3 / S-Gamut3.Cine: Both support advanced log and gamut color profiles, maintaining wide dynamic range and flexibility for HDR workflows.
- USB-C PD Charging: Each camera supports USB Power Delivery through the Type-C port, allowing simultaneous operation and charging for extended shoots.
- Dust and Moisture Resistant Body: Both have durable magnesium-alloy builds with weather sealing, ensuring reliability in outdoor or challenging environments.
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Each includes wireless connectivity for remote control, file transfer, and firmware updates through the Sony Creator’s App.
- Focus Breathing Compensation: Both models feature digital focus breathing correction, ensuring consistent framing during focus transitions for a professional cinematic look.
Common Features
| Feature | Sony FX3 | Sony FX30 |
| BIONZ XR Processor | Yes | Yes |
| 4K Recording | Yes | Yes |
| 10-bit 4:2:2 Internal Recording | Yes | Yes |
| S-Cinetone Picture Profile | Yes | Yes |
| 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes |
| Active Cooling Fan | Yes | Yes |
| Dual Card Slots (CFexpress Type A / SD) | Yes | Yes |
| Full-size HDMI Type-A Port | Yes | Yes |
| Vari-Angle LCD Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| 3.5 mm Audio Jack | Yes | Yes |
| XLR Audio Support via Top Handle | Yes | Yes |
| 16-bit RAW Output via HDMI | Yes | Yes |
| Customizable Buttons | Yes | Yes |
| Tally Lamps (Front and Rear) | Yes | Yes |
| Gyro Data Support for Catalyst Browse | Yes | Yes |
| S-Log3 / S-Gamut3.Cine | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C PD Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Dust and Moisture Resistant Body | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Focus Breathing Compensation | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Checkn Sony FX3 Price | Check Sony FX30 Price |
FAQ
Is the Sony FX3 a full-frame camera while the FX30 is not? Do both cameras belong to Sony’s Cinema Line? Can both cameras record 4K video? Do the Sony FX3 and FX30 have in-body image stabilization? Is there any difference in autofocus performance between the two? Can both cameras output RAW video? Do both models support S-Cinetone and S-Log3 profiles? Are the two cameras physically similar in size and design? Do both cameras include an active cooling fan? Can the FX3 and FX30 use the same batteries? Is the top handle with XLR audio included with both cameras? Do both cameras have dual card slots? Are both cameras compatible with Sony E-mount lenses? Do both models include a full-size HDMI port? Can both cameras be controlled remotely via an app? |