Sony FX2 vs FX3: Comparison Guide
If you’re looking for a quick answer - here is my take: If you prioritize photo and are looking for a camera that can take video get the FX2. If you prioritize video and take photos here and there, like we do, get the FX3. If you are a serious video production company don’t expect to rely on that FX2 as your main workhorse to get your job done the right way.
For those of you here who are video first people, I think you should check out my FX2 vs FX30 Comparison Guide. The FX2 is a great B camera option and in my opinion is a better buy than the FX30 in some cases!
Today we are comparing the FX3 and the FX2 so you can make a really informed choice on which will be better for your production needs.
As a video-first production company based in Boston, we’re still team FX3. But let’s be clear: the FX2 is still a very cool camera with serious potential for hybrid shooters, content creators, and anyone who wants a powerful full-frame camera with incredible stills capabilities.
Also…just going to put this out there… I think I like the FX3 way more and always will because the viewfinder would drive me absolutely nuts.
Why We Still Recommend the FX3 for Filmmakers
Here’s the thing: the FX2 comes kind of close close - but the FX3 is still the better option for professionals who need full video production functionality out of the box.
We still recommend the FX3 because:
The base ISO is 12,800 which is a lot higher than the FX2. This is the biggest difference. I think this alone makes the case that the FX2 isn’t right for serious video production companies. I use 12,800 with a filter A LOT as a run an shooter and I literally don’t know what I’d do without that range. I would never get a camera that forces me to shoot lower than this - period.
It shoots 4K at 120fps with no crop - I think this is important
It includes a top handle with built-in XLR audio inputs - no need to buy extra gear
It offers professional features like timecode sync and tally lights, which are helpful on set
The FX3’s layout and design are built for video-first shooters - no compromises. I don’t feel like I need a smaller camera than the FX3.
It’s Netflix-approved, meaning it meets high standards for broadcast and streaming distribution
This camera isn’t just powerful - it’s efficient, practical, and reliable. That’s why it continues to be our go-to.
Why the FX2 Is Still a Big Deal
The FX2 really in my opinion is a great option for photographers who want to start taking really beautiful video content
33MP stills (with 14-bit RAW support) make it ideal for great photos
It records 4K video with 10-bit color and HEVC compression
It has a cooling fan, meaning longer record times even on demanding shoots
It’s significantly cheaper than the FX3
If you’re a solo creator, a photographer who also wants pro-level video, or a team building out multiple content capture setups - this is a great option.
The FX2’s 7K Oversampled 4K Recording
One of the FX2’s neat tricks is its ability to oversample 4K from a full-frame 7K capture at up to 30 fps. In practice, this means you’re recording roughly 7 000 horizontal pixels down to a crisp 4 000-pixel timeline—so your 24 p and 30 p footage ends up looking incredibly sharp, with smoother detail and less aliasing. It’s a lovely bonus if you’re after the absolute cleanest image straight out of camera. That said, for most viewers and most delivery formats, the difference between a standard 4K readout and a 7K oversampled 4K isn’t super noticeable—especially once you’re grading, compressing for web delivery, or mixing different angles. In short, it’s a great flex to have in your toolkit, but don’t expect every client to pick up on it unless you point it out.
Our Final Take
If you’re producing high-end commercial content, documentary-style interviews, or anything where high frame rates are critical without a crop get the FX3. Without that higher ISO range, the FX2 is out of hte running for me.
But if you’re looking for a stills-focused camera that also shoots gorgeous 4K video and don’t need timecode syncs, the FX2 is going to give you a ton of power at a much lower price.
At Bunker Hill Media, we’ll be sticking with the FX3. But if someone says they’re really digging the FX2? We’re not mad about it.
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The Sony FX3 is a video-first cinema camera with a 12.1MP sensor, dual base ISO of 800 and 12,800, and 4K recording up to 120fps. It includes pro features like a top handle with XLR audio inputs, built-in timecode sync, and tally lights. The FX2, while more affordable, has a 33MP sensor ideal for still photography, 4K video up to 60fps, and a high base iso of 4000. It's a better hybrid camera, while the FX3 is purpose-built for video production.
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The Sony FX2 can be used for professional video, especially in content creation or solo setups, thanks to its 4K 10-bit recording, cooling fan, and 33MP stills. However, it lacks features like 120fps recording, that high base ISO (since its is 4000) and timecode sync built into the body—tools that are crucial for many commercial and collaborative production workflows. For serious filmmakers, the FX3 is still the better choice.
I would say that this is good for beginners.
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If you're focused on professional filmmaking, commercial shoots, or interviews where audio and frame rate flexibility matter, the FX3 is worth the investment. It’s designed for full-time video use and includes all the tools you'd expect on set. If you're a hybrid shooter or looking for a more budget-friendly option that still delivers great video and exceptional stills, the FX2 is a strong alternative.
