Sony FX3a vs FX2: Comparison Guide
If you’re here to find out whether you should be purchasing the FX3a or the FX2 I’ll make it quick and just say if you are a video first creator - you probably should be picking up the FX3a and if that is our of the budget for you than I’d grab the FX2. The FX2 is great, but it’s not as good in low light as the FX3a which really matters to those of us run and gun, documentary style shooters where we can’t control the light on every shoot. IF you are able to control the light on every single shoot you have then the FX2 is a great option for you. If you are photo focused, looking to get into shooting video, the FX2 is also a great option for you.
When you’re choosing between Cinema Line cameras, the devil’s in the details. Both the FX3 a and FX2 share Sony’s S-Log3 color science, full-frame sensors, and pro-level ergonomics—but each brings distinct strengths to the table. Whether you’re a solo run-and-gun shooter or a hybrid photo-video creator, understanding how these bodies differ will ensure your next project looks - and feels - exactly how you envisioned.
1. Core Positioning
FX3a: Ideal for literally any and all shoots you may have coming your way. Documentary-style, run and gun shoots, and any scenario where you might be working with variable light!
FX2: I call this camera the crossover champ for photographers stepping into video - offering 33 MP stills, robust cooling, and the cleanest mid-range ISO performance in the lineup.
2. Native ISO & Low-Light Performance
FX3 a’s advantage: When you need that ISO boost - street-lit interviews, night exteriors, event coverage without lighting rigs - the ISO 12 800 mode lets you push into darkness while keeping grain under control.
FX2’s sweet spot: In controlled or dim environments, ISO 800 delivers pristine shadows and maximum dynamic range; ISO 4 000 gives just enough extra sensitivity without a steep noise penalty.
3. Form Factor & Handling
FX3 a
Body-only weight: 1 lb 6.3 oz (630 g)
With XLR handle & battery: 2 lb 3.8 oz (1.015 kg)
Slim, flat-top design optimized for gimbals, drones, and one-handed operation.
FX2
Body-only weight: 1 lb 5 oz (594 g)
With XLR handle & battery: Approx 1 lb 8 oz (679 g)
Similar footprint to the FX3 a but built-in XLR handle adds stability; robust cooling fan inside a graphite-reinforced frame.
4. Recording & Connectivity
FX3a
Max internal codec: XAVC S-I DCI 4K or XAVC HS 4K up to 119.88 p
Output: 16-bit RAW via HDMI; 4:2:2 10-bit internal
Timecode & tally: Full tally lamp system; external TC IN/OUT
Streaming: UVC/UAC over USB; SRT/RTMP/RTMPS via Wi-Fi
FX2
Max internal codec: XAVC S-I 4K up to 59.94 p; XAVC HS up to 59.94 p
Output: 16-bit RAW via HDMI; identical internal 10-bit sampling
Timecode & tally: Same tally lamps; TC IN/OUT on Multi/Micro USB
Streaming: USB UVC/UAC; wired LAN FTP support for direct upload
5. Still-Image Capability
FX3a: Limited to video-optimized sensor readout; no dedicated high-res still mode.
FX2: Full-frame 33 MP stills at 10 fps - ideal if you need snap-grab frames or a hi-res photo backup from your shoot.
6. Battery Life & Power Draw
FX3a: ≃ 95 min continuous recording (CIPA) at ~7.3 W/movie
FX2: ≃ 100 min continuous recording (CIPA) at ~6.6 W/movie
Both accept NP-FZ100 batteries and USB-PD for extended shoots - but the FX2’s slightly lower draw and larger capacity headroom make marathon sessions a bit easier.
7. When to Choose Which
Go FX3 a if…
You’re a run-and-gun documentarian or event videographer chasing real moments in unpredictable light.
You need the lightest possible rig with the biggest ISO swing.
Go FX2 if…
You’re a photographer or hybrid shooter who values high-res stills alongside professional video.
Your projects live in low-to-medium light where pristine midtones matter most.
8. Final Recommendation
Both cameras excel - but your workflow decides the winner. If you prioritize agility and absolute low-light reach, pack the FX3 a. If you need a true hybrid stills-and-video powerhouse with top-tier image purity, the FX2 is your best bet.
