Here are my top ten products released in 2024.
I’ve only included products that have already started shipping. So this excludes the Arri Alexa 265, Blackmagic 17K 65mm, etc.
Best Video Camera: Canon C400
The Canon C400 is probably the best cinema camera released in 2024.
What you get with the C400:
- New LCD and Grip compared to the C300 Mark III
- Full frame and 6K
- Anamorphic modes
- Triple Base ISO
- Better Autofocus
- Better compatibility for lenses with the RF mount
- Support for Cooke /i metadata with the PL mount
To know more about why it wins, read this:
Best Cinema Camera: Red V-RAPTOR [X]
The RED V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV merges the high frame rates and low-light capabilities of the V-RAPTOR series with a global shutter.
It can film at up to 120 frames per second in 8K.
The V-RAPTOR [X] also includes updated audio pre-amps for better sound quality and an optimized sensor cavity for improved contrast. It retains a locking Canon RF lens mount and dual 12G-SDI outputs for monitoring flexibility. It’s the best Red has to offer, alongside the Red V-RAPTOR XL [X].
Now that they are under Nikon, it will be interesting to see what they come up with in 2025.
Best Cinema Lens Set (Primes): ARRI Enso Primes
When Arri announces something, it’s always going to turn heads. I had a quick look at the ARRI Enso Primes at Broadcast India, and they seem like a great low budget addition to the Arri lens lineup.
The ARRI Enso Prime lenses offer a tunable solution. Spanning 14 focal lengths from 10.5 mm to 250 mm – with the option to extend to 350 mm and 500 mm using Ens? Extenders – these lenses cater to a wide range of production needs.
Most lenses in the series feature a consistent T2.1 aperture and a front diameter of 95 mm. And they are lightweight.
A standout feature of the Ens? Primes is the Enso Vintage Elements kit, which includes six interchangeable optics that magnetically attach to the rear of the lenses. This system allows cinematographers to customize the visual characteristics of their footage. E.g., the Vintage Elements offer effects such as smeary, soft-edged bokeh and Petzval-like image swirl.
Best Anamorphic Cinema Lens Set: BLAZAR LENS Remus
The BLAZAR LENS Remus is incredible value for money.
They offer a range of five anamorphic lenses designed for full-frame cameras. The lineup includes a 33mm T1.8, 45mm T2.0, 65mm T2.0, 85mm T2.8, and 125mm T4, each featuring a constant 1.5x squeeze ratio.
These lenses are available in Canon EF or PL mounts, and weigh about 1.7 lbs.
They also offer a choice of flare color options – Silver, Blue, and Amber. However, it’s important to note that BLAZAR has announced the discontinuation of the Blue and Amber flare single lens options by the end of 2024, with the Silver flare option continuing.
Best Cinema Lens Set (Zoom): ZEISS Supreme Zoom Radiance
The ZEISS Supreme Zoom Radiance series comprises three high-end cine zoom lenses: 15-30mm, 28-80mm, and 70-200mm, each with a constant T2.9 aperture.
These lenses feature ZEISS’s T* blue coating, enabling controlled and reproducible artistic flares, along with a warmer color rendition compared to standard coatings.
They offer consistent positions for iris, focus, and zoom rings, with a 114mm front diameter. They are interchangeable with Supreme Prime lenses. If you’ve ever shot with Supreme Primes, you know why it’s exciting!
Best Microphone: None!
I really couldn’t find a single microphone – lavalier or shotgun – that can replace any of the legends available already.
Best Audio Recorder: Zoom H6essential
The Zoom H6essential (Amazon, B&H) feels like the natural evolution of a recorder that has always aimed to meet the needs of video professionals without overcomplicating things.
32-bit float recording is a real game-changer, especially for those who find themselves in unpredictable sound environments. You don’t have to worry about meticulously setting gain levels anymore, as it can handle loud and quiet sounds equally well without distortion or clipping. This feature alone makes it a practical choice for field recordists, podcasters, and even independent filmmakers who need a reliable, no-fuss audio solution.
It has improved battery life and the ability to use up to 1TB microSDXC cards. The H6essential doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, you’ll feel right at home!
Best Tripod: SCG StediFast and T8
The SCG StediFast (Amazon, B&H) is the only product review I’ve done all year, and it’s excellent value for money. Watch my review here:
That’s it! If I’ve left out your favorite piece of gear, let me know in the comments below.
