Sony FX30 Review

The Sony FX30 is a compact cinema camera built around a 26.1MP APS-C back-illuminated CMOS sensor, offering dual base ISO (800/2500) and a robust codec suite including 10-bit 4:2:2 XAVC S-I and 16-bit raw output. Designed for content creators and indie filmmakers, it records UHD 4K up to 120p with over 14 stops of dynamic range when using S-Log3, and supports S-Cinetone for skintones straight out of the camera. The body weighs just 1.2 pounds and is intended for cage-free handheld or gimbal work, with 5-axis in-body stabilization and phase-detection autofocus covering 495 points across 90% of the sensor. Dual CFexpress Type A and SD card slots provide flexible media options, while user LUTs and timecode sync round out the pro features.

At around $2,100, the FX30 slots in as an accessible entry into Sony's Cinema Line, sharing much of the FX3 and FX6 color science and handling but with the reach advantage of an APS-C sensor. Fast Hybrid AF with face and eye tracking makes it a capable hybrid for both narrative and documentary work, and the high frame rate options open up slow-motion possibilities without sacrificing 4K resolution. It's a practical workhorse for creators who need cinema-grade image quality and flexibility without the bulk or price of full-frame alternatives.