What kind of beast is the Sony FX2?
It borrows heavily from the Sony FX3 (Amazon, B&H), refines some features, and omits others – resulting in a camera that could be a bargain or a missed opportunity.
Let’s dive into the important quirks, features, and gotchas of the Sony FX2.
1. Same Sensor, but not the FX3’s
The FX2 shares the 33MP sensor with the a7 IV. This means you get full-frame oversampled 4K from a 7K readout with excellent detail. It supports dual native ISOs (800 and 4000) and delivers 15+ stops of dynamic range in S-Log3.
However: The FX2 only supports 4K60p in APS-C or Super35 crop mode. There is no 4K 120p option in this camera.
2. Internal Cooling for Long Takes
The FX2 includes an internal cooling fan for uninterrupted 4K 60p recording (tested up to approximately 13 hours).
It is not guaranteed to be 100% dust and moisture proof.
3. Built-in EVF, a Big Change from the FX3
The most obvious difference from the FX3 is the angle-adjustable EVF. This makes the FX2 a sort of hybrid between the FX3 and a7-line of cameras. Caveat: Any mounted accessories might block the tilt adjustment.
4. Advanced AF and AI Subject Recognition
It includes AI-based real-time recognition AF for humans, animals, birds, insects, cars, trains, and airplanes. Sony cameras, along with Canon, are class-leaders when it comes to autofocus, so I expect it to be stellar.
Note: Detection is off by default. You must manually select subject type if auto-detection misfires.
Gotcha: AI framing reduces angle of view by cropping the 4K image.
5. Better IBIS but with a Tradeoff
The Sony FX2 includes a 5-axis sensor-shift stabilization system with three movie modes: Standard, Active, and “Dynamic Active”. Sony claims improved shake suppression compared to the FX3. But – these modes crop the image.
6. LUT Support
The FX2 supports up to 16 custom LUTs (17 and 33 point) in the *.cube format for monitoring or baking into footage.
Of course, you also get S-Cinetone, 12 Creative Look profiles, and full support for Cine EI modes.
7. Media Slots
The Sony FX2 uses dual card slots, one supporting CFexpress Type A. Both support SD cards. Is Sony slowly giving up on Type A? Maybe. CFexpress 4.0 cards will only operate at CFexpress 2.0 speeds.
8. RAW Video but not Internally
You can output 16-bit RAW over HDMI, but only in APS-C or Super35mm crop mode.
The best you get internally is either:
- XAVC S-I DCI4K 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 in 60p at about 600 Mbps
- or XAVC HS 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 in 60p at about 200 Mbps.
It looks and quacks like a cinema camera, but without internal RAW it’s going to be a tough sell as a cinema camera.
9. USB-C Streaming and Power
USB-C charging and power delivery are supported. You need a USB power supply (power bank) with at least 9V/3A output. The USB Type-C cable must be able to handle 3A or more.
It also supports live streaming up to 4K 59.94p via USB-C or LAN (with adapter) using RTMP, RTMPS, or SRT protocols.
The standard NP-FZ100 battery gives up to 100 minutes of shooting.
FX2 vs FX3 Quick Comparison
| Feature | Sony FX2 | Sony FX3 |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in EVF | Yes | No |
| XLR Handle | Optional, but not included | Included |
| AI Recognition & Framing | Better | Older |
| Fan-based Active Cooling | Yes | Yes |
| 4K 120p | No | Yes |
| Price on B&H | $2,698 | $3,898 |
What do I think?
The Sony FX2 is not really a straight downgrade or sidegrade – it’s just not that enticing for cinema shooters when other options exist.
If you need an EVF, care about hybrid switching, or want AI-powered AI at low data rates and long recording times, the FX2 is a great choice. Who needs that?
Wedding, YouTubers and event shooters, that’s who. These are Sony’s largest customers professionally, and Sony’s cameras cater to these markets first and foremost. I don’t blame them, but let’s not get too excited just because the model number starts with an FX.
If you’re a filmmaker, you have better options. It’s a hard pass from me.
