Sony FX5.
Sony's compact cinema body grows up: a stacked 16.6MP full-frame sensor, 5K open gate, internal 16-bit X-OCN RAW and in-body stabilization, all in an FX3-sized chassis. The trade-offs are real: no built-in ND, no stills mode, and $600 more than the FX3A.
The Verdict.
Gavler Meta-Score
“The most capable compact Cinema Line body Sony has made: stacked sensor, 5K open gate and internal X-OCN RAW in an FX3-sized chassis. It drops stills and still has no internal ND, so the FX3A remains the value pick and the FX6 the run-and-gun ND pick.”
The Gavler Verdict
Where to Buy.
Prices checked regularly
Some links are affiliate links — Gavler may earn a commission. This never affects rankings or scores. Learn more.
Precision Engineering
Stacked 16.6MP Full-Frame Sensor
A new fully stacked Exmor RS sensor cuts rolling shutter well below the FX3A's, with a triple base ISO of 800, 4000 and 12800.
5K Open Gate + Internal X-OCN RAW
Records the full 3:2 sensor at 5K up to 60fps and 16-bit X-OCN (LT / C1 / C2) straight to CFexpress Type A, with no external recorder.
In-Body Stabilization, No ND
5-axis sensor-shift stabilization for handheld work. There is no internal ND and no stills mode.
Technical Specifications
The Scoreboard
Validation-stage editorial seed (Curator §328). Launch coverage is strongly positive on the stacked sensor, open gate and internal RAW. Deductions for no internal ND, no stills mode, firmware-gated frame rates and tight stock. Community votes will move it.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think Sony FX5 deserves the #4 spot in Best Cinema Cameras?
More from Best Cinema Cameras.
See how other top picks compare in this category.
A Compact Cinema Body, an ND Workhorse, or a RAW Cube?
A 12K hangtag is the wrong first question. Compact cinema body, ND workhorse, or RAW cube is the camera. Then shop Gavler's live ranking.
Sony's New FX5 Gives the Compact Cinema Camera Everything the FX3 Was Missing — For $1,000 More
Sony's FX5 adds a stacked sensor, 5K Open Gate, and internal RAW — the compact FX line's biggest leap. But it drops photo mode and still has no built-in ND.
The Best Cinema Cameras in 2026, Ranked by the Filmmakers Who Shoot Them
From a $1,795 Blackmagic Pocket 6K to a 12K full-frame flagship, Gavler's community ranks the cinema cameras worth buying in 2026.