Sony FX3a Released – A Change So Subtle, You’ll Need a Spec Sheet

Camera News

by Nino Leitner8 days ago

Sony is playing with our feelings. At a time when many are eagerly awaiting long-overdue updates to Sony’s cinema camera lineup, the company has released what might be the most subtle camera update imaginable: the Sony FX3 has been quietly replaced by the FX3a. This new version includes only minimal hardware changes and—confusingly—will still be marketed as the FX3. Read on to learn more.

It took us a while to put this article together. Earlier today, we discovered a new Sony camera model, but there was no press release and no obvious spec differences. The only clue? A new model designation—ILME-FX3A—appearing on the page formerly dedicated to the FX3.

Sony statement about the mysterious Sony FX3a announcement

We reached out to Sony for clarification on what exactly is going on with this new model. Here’s their emailed response:

“As it is not a new product announcement, we deliberately didn’t issue a dedicated press release on this topic. […]

[….] we are pleased to confirm the FX3A comprises the below main specification changes:

– LCD panel resolution change to 2,359,296 dots from 1,440,000 dots
– NFC functionality removed
– Infrared remote control light receiving element removed“

While we don’t have official confirmation on this, it appears that the FX3’s screen was replaced due to the original panel becoming unavailable. Rather than discontinue a very popular model, Sony opted to keep it on the market with a higher-resolution screen and some minor feature removals—until a proper next-generation model arrives.

The end of the Sony FX3 discount?

The arrival of the FX3a also seems to coincide with the end of the $300 discount many dealers had been offering on the original FX3.

Retailer B&H now lists both versions of the camera, as the new model has received a new SKU (model number). However, we expect the original version to disappear from shelves quickly as remaining stock sells out.

While this isn’t the major FX-series update many were hoping for, there’s still hope: Sony can’t hold off on new cinema camera announcements forever. What new Sony camera—and what features—are you waiting for? Let us know in the comments below.