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Sony PXW-FS5 Professional Camcorder

The Sony PXW-FS5 is a 11.6 megapixels (8.3-8.8 effective) Super 35 cinema camera — with 3840 x 2160 video. Used copies start from $325 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Sony PXW-FS5 Professional Camcorder

Sony PXW-FS5 Professional Camcorder

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Sony PXW-FS5 — image 1
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Sony PXW-FS5 Screen with Kenotehnik Magnetic Loupe (Works with FS7)

Condition: Fair

Product Highlights

  • 4K Super 35mm Sensor
  • Electronic Variable ND
  • High Frame Rate
  • E-Mount Compatibility

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Used Sony PXW-FS5 Listings on GearFocus

Sony PXW-FS5 Screen with Kenotehnik Magnetic Loupe (Works with FS7)
Sony PXW-FS5 Screen with Kenotehnik Magnetic Loupe (Works with FS7)

Fair

$325.00

Camera Overview — Sony PXW-FS5

The Sony PXW-FS5 is a professional handheld camcorder built around a Super 35 Exmor CMOS sensor with 11.6 megapixels (8.3–8.8 effective), designed to meet the demands of documentary, commercial, and independent video production. It records up to 3840 x 2160 resolution and supports an extensive range of frame rates including 23.98p, 24p, 25p, 29.97p, 30p, 50p, 59.94p, 60p, 120fps, 240fps, 480fps, and up to 960fps for high-speed capture. Color science is a strong suit, with a broad selection of picture profiles including S-Log2, S-Log3, ITU709, Cine1 through Cine4, and Standard — giving colorists meaningful latitude in post.

Video encoding reaches 10-bit 4:2:2 in HD, stepping down to 8-bit 4:2:0 for 4K. The camera uses the Sony E lens mount, opening it to a wide ecosystem of native optics. Storage is handled via SD, SDHC, SDXC, and Memory Stick media.

Connectivity is well-equipped with dual XLR and 3.5mm microphone inputs, a 3.5mm headphone jack, HDMI Type A output, Wi-Fi, and a Multi Interface Shoe. The body is constructed from magnesium alloy and polycarbonate, weighing 830g with dimensions of 111.3 x 128.7 x 172.4mm.

Key Features — Sony PXW-FS5

Super 35 Exmor CMOS Sensor: An 11.6MP Super 35 sensor delivers a cinematic field of view and depth-of-field rendering suited to documentary and commercial production.

4K UHD Recording: Records up to 3840 x 2160 resolution via external recorder; internal recording is Full HD, with 4K output over HDMI.

Up to 960fps Slow Motion: Supports high-speed capture up to 960fps for dramatic slow-motion sequences, available at reduced resolution in Super Slow Motion mode.

10-Bit 4:2:2 in HD: HD recording at 10-bit 4:2:2 retains rich chroma detail, giving colorists more flexibility during grading.

S-Log2 and S-Log3 Support: Built-in S-Log2 and S-Log3 picture profiles maximize dynamic range capture for professional post-production workflows.

Sony E Mount: Compatible with the broad Sony E-mount lens ecosystem, including native FE and E lenses as well as adapted glass via third-party options.

Camera Specifications — Sony PXW-FS5

Sony PXW-FS5 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesDocumentary, Sports, Video / Cinematography
TypeOther
SensorSuper 35
Resolution11.6 megapixels (8.3-8.8 effective)
ProcessorExmor CMOS
ISO Range3200 – 3200
AF SystemContrast Detection
AF PointsNot specified
Max Photo Resolution3840 x 2160
Burst Rate0 fps
Max Video Resolution3840 x 2160
Max Frame Rate960fps

Description — Sony PXW-FS5

The Sony PXW-FS5 professional camcorder centers on a Super 35 Exmor CMOS sensor with 11.6 megapixels (8.3–8.8 effective), providing a solid imaging base for high-end video work. It records at up to 3840 x 2160 resolution with color profiles spanning S-Log2, S-Log3, ITU709, Cine1–Cine4, and Standard, offering strong flexibility for post-production workflows. Frame rate coverage is extensive, reaching up to 960fps for extreme slow-motion alongside standard rates from 23.98p through 60p.

In HD, the camera outputs 10-bit 4:2:2 video for richer color reproduction, while 4K is captured at 8-bit 4:2:0. The Sony E mount enables broad lens compatibility. The body measures 111.3 x 128.7 x 172.4mm and weighs 830g, constructed from magnesium alloy and polycarbonate.

A 3.5-inch LCD monitor and OLED viewfinder aid framing and exposure. Audio connectivity includes dual XLR inputs and a 3.5mm microphone jack, with a 3.5mm headphone jack for monitoring. Wi-Fi is built in, and the Multi Interface Shoe and HDMI Type A output round out the connectivity suite.

Pros — Sony PXW-FS5

  • ✓Super 35 Exmor CMOS sensor at 11.6 megapixels delivers a cinematic imaging foundation
  • ✓Maximum 4K resolution at 3840 x 2160 for high-detail video output
  • ✓Extensive frame rate options up to 960fps for dramatic slow-motion shooting

Cons — Sony PXW-FS5

  • ✗4K recording is limited to 8-bit 4:2:0, compared to 10-bit 4:2:2 available only in HD
  • ✗No weather sealing (bodyDesign.weatherSealing: None), limiting use in challenging outdoor conditions
  • ✗Autofocus relies solely on Contrast Detection with no subject tracking or eye tracking

Videos — Sony PXW-FS5

Sony PXW-FS5: First Look & Features Beyond the Specs — LensProToGo

Resources & Downloads — Sony PXW-FS5

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Sony PXW-FS5

What lens mount does the Sony PXW-FS5 use?+
The PXW-FS5 uses the Sony E lens mount, giving it access to the Sony E-mount lens ecosystem. There is no secondary mount system listed in the specifications.
What color profiles are available for video recording?+
The camera supports Standard, ITU709, S-Log2, S-Log3, Cine1, Cine2, Cine3, and Cine4 color profiles for video. S-Log2 and S-Log3 are particularly useful for maximizing dynamic range capture intended for color grading in post-production.
What are the storage media options?+
The PXW-FS5 records to SD, SDHC, SDXC, and Memory Stick media. This gives users flexibility in choosing card format based on availability and budget.
What audio inputs does the PXW-FS5 provide?+
The camera includes two XLR inputs and a 3.5mm mini microphone jack, covering both professional balanced audio connections and consumer-level microphone options. A 3.5mm headphone jack is also available for monitoring audio.
Does the PXW-FS5 have weather sealing?+
No, the specifications explicitly list weather sealing as None. Users should exercise caution when shooting in rain, dust, or other harsh environmental conditions.
What are the highest frame rates supported?+
The PXW-FS5 supports frame rates up to 960fps, with additional high-speed options at 480fps, 240fps, and 120fps listed in the specifications. Standard cinematic and broadcast frame rates from 23.98p through 60p are also supported.

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