Sony has quietly updated its popular Sony FX3 Cinema Line camera. The updated camera has a new model number, ILME-FX3A, with the addition of the A suffix. However, the Sony FX3A is not the long-hoped-for Sony FX3 Mark II.
What has Sony announced?
Sony didn’t make any official announcement regarding the launch of the FX3A. The company has also made it clear that it does not see the FX3A as a new camera. Sony has said that this is not a new product, hence why the company didn’t issue a dedicated press release about it.
So what is new with the Sony FX3A?
The main update with the FX3A is an improved LCD screen on the back of the camera. You now get a screen with 2.36 million dots, up from 1.44 million with the original FX3. While this improves the quality of the image for monitoring, the camera’s sensor is unchanged so the video quality will be the same as before.
In addition, it’s been reported that the FX3A has a more standardized USB-C port, replacing the older USB 3.2 Gen 1 port on the original FX3.
Other changes
Sony has confirmed that it has removed a couple of features from the original FX3. The Sony FX3A no longer offers NFC functionality. Its infrared remote control light receiving element has also been taken away. Also, online rumors have suggested that the FX3A will come with a dual battery charger, instead of the single battery charger previously supplied. Some websites have also reported that the FX3A won’t ship with a USB-C or power cord.
What we think
Some parts of the Sony user community have expressed disappointment with the specification of the FX3A. However, it’s clear from Sony’s statement that the company doesn’t see the FX3A as a new camera. In fact, some online sources have reported that Sony has only changed the rear LCD screen because the previous model had been discontinued by its supplier.
Additionally, the other changes have most likely been taken to simplify the design at the same time. Ultimately, one message the FX3A does send is that an FX3 Mark 2 is not likely for some time to come.
