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Sony’s FX5 cinema camera finally offers open gate and RAW 5K recording
Sony has unveiled the FX5, a new cinema camera slotting between the FX3 and FX6 in its "Cinema Line," bringing features long absent from the company's cameras, including RAW video and open gate recording. The launch is notable because it may hint at capabilities eventually trickling down to Sony's consumer mirrorless and vlogging cameras, and it positions the FX5 as a serious tool for independent filmmakers thanks to its combination of high resolution, dynamic range and stabilisation.
At the heart of the camera is a new 16.6-megapixel stacked full-frame sensor supporting 5K RAW recording via Sony's proprietary X-OCN codec, offering 16-bit colour depth, alongside 4K at up to 240fps and open gate 3:2 recording for easier cropping and vertical video. It also introduces three selectable base ISO settings (800, 4000 and 12800) for improved dynamic range and low-light performance, plus five-axis in-body stabilisation. The FX5 is available to pre-order now at $4,898 for the body alone, with an XLR audio handle adding $600, and units are expected to ship from mid-August 2026.
In short
- Sony's new FX5 cinema camera adds RAW video and open gate recording
- New stacked sensor enables 5K RAW, three base ISO settings
- Pre-orders start at $4,898, shipping mid-August 2026
Explained simply
Sony manufactures cameras for various uses, from smartphones to professional equipment. The company's Cinema Line targets filmmakers and video professionals specifically, with different models suited to different budgets and requirements. The new FX5 fits into this range between existing models, aimed at independent filmmakers who need professional features.
Professional filmmakers value RAW video recording, which preserves more colour information and detail than standard video, allowing greater creative control during editing. They also seek open gate recording, which captures using the full sensor without automatically cropping the image, making it easier to frame shots for different formats and to adjust composition later. Both features give filmmakers flexibility in how they capture and shape their footage.
The FX5 combines these recording features with other professional tools like high frame rates and image stabilisation. This positions it as a competitive option against cinema cameras from other manufacturers. For independent creators operating with smaller budgets than traditional production houses, access to such capabilities is significant.
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