Sony FS5M2 Cinema Camera
The Sony FS5M2 is a 8.8MP Super 35 cinema camera — with 4K video. Used copies start from $1,090.38 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sony FS5M2 Cinema Camera
Used Sony FS5M2 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Sony FS5M2
Key Features — Sony FS5M2
Super 35 BIONZ X Sensor: The Super 35 sensor paired with Sony's BIONZ X processor delivers a cinematic field of view and clean image output familiar to professional film workflows.
4K at Standard Frame Rates: Records 4K at standard cinema frame rates; high frame rate slow-motion is available at lower resolutions up to 1080p at 240fps.
10-Bit Color Recording: 10-bit output provides significantly more color data than 8-bit, giving colorists greater latitude when grading in post-production.
S-Log2, S-Log3 & HLG: Three professional color profiles allow shooters to capture wide dynamic range footage suited to HDR delivery or heavy color grading.
ISO 320–102400 Range: Wide native and extended ISO range enables usable exposure across controlled studio environments and low-light run-and-gun situations.
Sony E Mount: Compatible with the full Sony E-mount lens ecosystem, including native FE lenses and adapted PL or EF glass via third-party adapters.
Camera Specifications — Sony FS5M2
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Video / Cinematography, Documentary, Event, Studio |
| Type | Other |
| Sensor | Super 35 |
| Resolution | 8.8MP |
| Processor | Sony BIONZ X |
| ISO Range | 320 – 102400 |
| AF System | Phase Detection, Contrast Detection |
| AF Points | Variable |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max Frame Rate | 240fps |
| Bit Depth | 10-bit |
| Image Stabilization | None |
Description — Sony FS5M2
The Sony FS5M2 cinema camera is built around a Super 35 sensor with 8.8MP resolution and driven by a Sony BIONZ X image processor. The camera records up to 4K maximum resolution with frame rate options spanning 24fps, 30fps, 60fps, 120fps, and 240fps, covering everything from standard cinematic capture to high-speed slow-motion sequences. Footage is captured in 10-bit depth across XAVC, AVCHD, and MPEG-4 recording formats, with support for S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG color profiles that give post-production teams strong grading flexibility.
The ISO sensitivity runs from 320 to 102400, accommodating a wide range of lighting scenarios. The body itself weighs just 0.83kg and measures 111 x 128 x 172 mm in magnesium alloy construction. Monitoring is handled by a 3.5-inch LCD display at 1280x720 resolution and an OLED viewfinder at 1024x768 at 60Hz.
Audio connections include XLR and 3.5mm mic input, with a 3.5mm headphone output for real-time monitoring. Connectivity extends to HDMI, USB 3.0, and Wi-Fi, while the Sony E lens mount and Sony Multi Interface Shoe provide accessory and lens expandability. Media recording goes to SDXC, SDHC, or Memory Stick PRO Duo cards.
Pros — Sony FS5M2
- ✓Up to 240fps maximum frame rate enables significant slow-motion recording capability
- ✓10-bit recording with S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG color profiles provides strong post-production flexibility
- ✓Wide ISO range from 320 to 102400 supports shooting in varied lighting environments
Cons — Sony FS5M2
- ✗No image stabilization of any kind — neither in-body optical nor digital stabilization is available
- ✗No weather sealing on the body despite magnesium alloy construction, limiting use in adverse conditions
- ✗Media limited to SDXC, SDHC, and Memory Stick PRO Duo — no CFast or higher-throughput card support listed
Videos — Sony FS5M2
Sony FS5 II - Overview — ProAV
Frequently Asked Questions — Sony FS5M2
What video recording formats does the Sony FS5M2 support?+
The FS5M2 records in XAVC, AVCHD, and MPEG-4 formats. These can be written to SDXC, SDHC, or Memory Stick PRO Duo media cards.
What color profiles are available for log footage?+
The camera supports S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG color profiles. Combined with 10-bit recording, this gives colorists meaningful dynamic range to work with in post-production.
Does the Sony FS5M2 have any image stabilization?+
No — the specifications confirm no optical in-body stabilization and no digital image stabilization. Users requiring stabilization will need to rely on stabilized lenses or external rigs.
What lenses are compatible with the FS5M2?+
The camera uses a Sony E lens mount, which gives access to the Sony E-mount lens ecosystem. The Sony Multi Interface Shoe also allows for additional accessory attachment.
What audio inputs does the FS5M2 offer?+
The camera includes both XLR and 3.5mm mic input audio inputs, along with a 3.5mm headphone output for monitoring. This allows connection of professional XLR microphones as well as consumer-grade 3.5mm mics.
Is the Sony FS5M2 weather sealed?+
No. The body is constructed from magnesium alloy but the specifications confirm weather sealing is listed as None, so caution is advised when shooting in rain or dusty environments.