Sony FX5 Full-Frame Cinema Camera Begins Shipping: Open Gate, 5-Axis IBIS, and Internal RAW Recording
August 8, 2026 — Sony has officially begun shipping the first batch of orders for its highly anticipated FX5 full-frame cinema camera. Announced in late July, the FX5 represents a significant leap forward for Sony’s compact Cinema Line, bringing features previously reserved for the company’s high-end VENICE series into a more portable, run-and-gun form factor.
Open Gate Comes to the FX Series
For the first time in the FX-series lineup, the FX5 introduces Open Gate recording — a feature that was previously limited to Sony’s premium VENICE cinema cameras. This allows filmmakers to utilize the camera’s entire sensor area in a 3:2 aspect ratio, capturing 5K resolution at up to 120 frames per second. The full-sensor readout provides maximum flexibility in post-production, enabling seamless reframing for vertical content, anamorphic workflows, or multi-format delivery without sacrificing image quality.
Internal X-OCN RAW & 16 Stops of Dynamic Range
The FX5 is built around a newly developed 16.6MP full-frame stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor paired with Sony’s BIONZ XR2 image processor. The camera delivers 16 stops of dynamic range and supports internal recording of Sony’s proprietary 16-bit X-OCN RAW format — available in three variants: X-OCN LT, X-OCN C1, and X-OCN C2. This eliminates the need for external recorders on many productions, streamlining the workflow for solo operators and small crews.
Upgraded 5-Axis In-Body Stabilization
Sony has significantly enhanced the FX5’s stabilization hardware. The camera features upgraded precision stabilization components and gyroscope sensors, delivering optical 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS). According to Sony, the new stabilization mechanism doubles the working range in the rotational direction, achieving performance levels comparable to the Alpha 7R VI.
The FX5 retains both Standard Active Mode and Dynamic Active Mode. While Dynamic Active Mode introduces a slight crop, it provides a substantial boost in handheld shooting stability — ideal for gimbal-free run-and-gun cinematography.
Professional Monitoring & Exposure Tools
Addressing the needs of professional video shooters, Sony has equipped the FX5 with a comprehensive suite of exposure and focus assist tools. New additions include:
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False Color exposure display
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Waveform monitor
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Vector scope
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Focus map display
These join the existing lineup of histogram, zebra pattern, and peaking functions, giving filmmakers a full arsenal of in-camera monitoring options for precise exposure and focus control.
Pricing & Availability
The Sony FX5 is now shipping to customers who pre-ordered. The body-only configuration is priced at $ 4,899 USD / €5,399 in Europe, with a kit including the XLR handle unit available at a higher price point.
With its combination of VENICE-derived recording formats, robust stabilization, and professional monitoring tools, the FX5 positions itself as a powerful bridge between Sony’s compact FX3 and the higher-end production cameras in the Cinema Line.
