Description
Overview
The Sony FX30 is Sony’s Cinema Line Super 35mm camera, designed as the affordable entry point into professional filmmaking. Released in October 2022 , it shares the body design, menus, and professional codecs of its full-frame sibling the FX3, but uses a Super 35mm (APS-C) sensor.
This camera delivers 4K up to 120p (with crop), 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording, S-Cinetone color science, dual native ISO (800/2500), and professional features like timecode and tally lamps — all in a compact, rig-ready body.
This unit is in 98% excellent condition – fully tested, works exactly as shown. Includes accessory bundle (memory card, screen protector, cleaning kit, carrying bag).
Condition Details
Used – 98% excellent condition. Light signs of use if any. All functions, sensor, and controls are fully operational.
Key Specifications
20.1MP Super 35mm (APS-C) Exmor R CMOS sensor – Designed for video-first workflows
Dual base ISO – 800 and 2500 for exceptional low-light performance
4K 120p recording (with 1.6x crop) / 4K 60p from oversampled 6K (full sensor)
10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording in XAVC S-I, S-Log3, and S-Cinetone
S-Cinetone color science – Beautiful out-of-camera cinematic color (same as FX9/FX6/FX3)
Timecode sync (timecode in/out via multi/micro USB terminal)
Tally lamps front and rear – Professional on-air indicators
5-axis IBIS (image stabilization) with Active Mode for smooth handheld shots
Fast Hybrid AF with Real-time Tracking and Eye AF for humans/animals
Dual card slots – CFexpress Type A / SD (both UHS-II compatible)
XLR handle unit (optional – standard on some kits; confirm if included with your specific unit)
Dust and moisture resistance – Weather-sealed for professional use
NP-FZ100 battery – Approximately 570 minutes (body only, LCD)
What’s in the Box
Sony FX30 camera body
NP-FZ100 rechargeable battery
Battery charger / AC adapter
Body cap
Strap (multi-terminal accessory shoe cap, etc.)
Memory card
Screen protector
Cleaning kit
Carrying bag
Optional XLR handle unit – Confirm whether your unit includes the top handle with XLR inputs. Many FX30 kits bundle it; if included, note this adds significant value.
Why This Camera
Cinema Line Features at APS-C Price:
S-Cinetone – Same color science as the $10,000+ FX9. Reduces grading time dramatically.
Dual native ISO (800/2500) – Clean image in challenging light. Base at 2500 gives you 1.5 stops better low-light than typical mirrorless.
Timecode in/out – Sync with professional audio recorders and multiple cameras (multicam shoots).
Tally lamps – On-air indication essential for multicam productions.
For Filmmakers:
4K 10-bit 4:2:2 internal – Grade confidently without banding.
4K 120p slow motion – Creative flexibility for action and emotive shots (1.6x crop).
6K oversampled 4K 60p – Sharpest possible footage when not using 120p.
IBIS + gyro stabilization – Use in-body stabilization or stabilize in post with Catalyst Browse (included).
Active Mode stabilization – For walking shots with compatible lenses.
For Content Creators:
Super 35mm sensor – Natural shallow depth of field
Affordable lenses – Use Sony E-mount APS-C lenses (Sigma, Tamron) or full-frame glass
Excellent autofocus – Real-time tracking for interviews and moving subjects
Honest Note for 2026 Buyers
The FX30 launched in 2022 and remains the best-value Cinema Line camera in 2026. Here is what you need to know:
| Aspect | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Super 35mm crop factor | Not full-frame (like FX3). Use APS-C lenses or factor 1.5x crop into full-frame lenses. |
| XLR handle unit | Top handle with XLR inputs costs extra ($300-400). Essential for professional audio. If your unit includes it, this is significant value. |
| No viewfinder | Use external monitor or rely on LCD screen (like most cinema cameras). |
| CFexpress Type A cards | Expensive but optional – SD UHS-II works for most codecs except highest bitrates. |
| 4K 120p crop | 1.6x crop applies. For reference, FX3 also crops at 120p. |
| Still photo capability | It takes photos (20MP) but this is a video-first camera. Menus and features prioritize video. |
| Weight | ~646g body only — light but rig it for serious use (add monitor, handle, rails). |
What You Still Get That No Competitor Offers at this Price:
Timecode and tally lamps – Essential for multicam professional productions
S-Cinetone – Reduces color grading time significantly
Dual native ISO with video-optimized noise pattern – Not just high ISO, but clean high ISO
Professional form factor – 1/4″-20 mounting points everywhere, designed for rigging
Gyro metadata for post-stabilization – Built into every clip
Who Should Buy the FX30:
Entry-level filmmakers upgrading from mirrorless cameras
Music video creators needing S-Cinetone and slow motion
Documentary shooters wanting professional features (timecode, XLR, tally)
Corporate video producers delivering 10-bit 4:2:2 to clients
Multicam operators needing timecode sync with other FX6/FX3/FX30 cameras
Sony APS-C owners who already have E-mount lenses
Who Should Look Elsewhere:
Full-frame purists needing FX3’s sensor (but expect $2,000+ used price)
Budget buyers (A6700 shares sensor with fewer pro features at lower price)
Hybrid shooters prioritizing still photos (FX3/A7IV are better balanced)
Vloggers needing flip screen — screen pulls out but doesn’t flip completely forward for self-monitoring
FX30 vs FX3 vs A6700 (2026 Perspective):
| Model | Sensor | Pro Features | Photo Capability | Price (used) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A6700 | 26MP APS-C | Consumer | Excellent | ~$1,000-1,200 |
| FX30 | 20MP Super 35 | Timecode, Tally, Dual ISO | Good | $1,299 |
| FX3 | 12MP Full-frame | All cinema features | Limited | ~$2,500+ |
The FX30 is the right choice if you prioritize professional video workflow (timecode, XLR, tally) over stills capability and want to save $1,200+ over an FX3 .
At $1,299.99 with 98% excellent condition, full accessory bundle, and 90-day warranty, this FX30 represents the lowest-risk entry into Sony’s professional Cinema Line ecosystem. For aspiring filmmakers who need codecs and features for client work, this is a compelling value.
