Zach Mayfield thoughts about the FX3 & FX30: Are They Still Worthy Investments?

The Sony FX3 and Sony FX30 have now been on the market for years, and recently they got a price hike in the USA because of the new tariffs. Zach Mayfield revisits both to evaluate whether they remain solid choices in 2025 despite the price increase.

Initially, the FX3 was met with confusion by some creators, especially users of the Sony A7S III . It lacked expected cinema features like waveforms or false color. Over time, however, firmware updates and community use have transformed its reputation into that of a dependable workhorse camera in the cinema line.

The Sony FX30 is essentially the APS-C version of the FX3, bringing most of the same specs to a more affordable price point. Zach explains that it became his go-to camera for real estate, gimbal work, and long-form shooting. Despite its crop sensor, the FX30 delivers impressive DCI 4K 24p and UHD 4K up to 120fps (albeit with crop and noise). It also features USB-C live streaming, dual card slots, excellent battery life, and compatibility with the FX3’s top handle.

In terms of competition, Zach highlights the Lumix S5II and S5IIX as impressive alternatives in the same price range, offering full-frame sensors, ProRes options, and solid video features. He also mentions the Canon R6 Mark II , Nikon Z6 III , and Fujifilm X-H2S as other strong contenders, but he still prefers the FX30 for its usability and focused video design.

When discussing the FX3 , Zach admits that he came around to liking it after using it recently. Compared to the FX30, the FX3 offers a full-frame sensor and better low-light performance, though at a significantly higher cost. Alternatives like the Nikon Z8 and Canon R5 Mark II were mentioned but didn’t offer the same seamless video-first experience in his opinion.

Zach is also intrigued by the idea of building a kit with the FX30 , FX3 , and FX6 as A/B/C cameras depending on the shoot. He appreciates the simplicity, reliability, and strong image quality of Sony’s cinema line. If you don’t need open gate or deep anamorphic features, these cameras remain a compelling option.

Overall, his 2025 verdict: the Sony FX30 and Sony FX3 are still worth your money. The FX30 especially stands out as one of the best value cinema cameras available today.