Selects: Best Cinema Cameras in 2025
Published 28 July 2025 by MPB
In this article, we explore the best cinema cameras on the market, spotlighting top options from leading brands. From budget-friendly choices to high-end powerhouses (top-notch cine cameras come at all costs), we'll explore their specs, features and what sets each apart. Our guide will help you find the perfect camera to elevate your filmmaking game.
Our Top Cinema Cameras
We selected six options (plus a few honourable mentions) to help you start your cine camera search. Without further ado, here are our top picks.
The right cinema camera can make all the difference in bringing your creative vision to life, whether you’re mastering essential filmmaking shots, capturing establishing shots for TV or simply making yourself look cinematic.
Sony FX6: Best All-Rounder
Used Sony FX6
Specs
4K 10.2-megapixel full-frame back-illuminated CMOS Exmor R sensor
Recording up to 4K 120p/HD 240p
15+ stops of dynamic range
Base 800–12,800 ISO up to 409,600
Upsides
Face-detection autofocus
Dual native ISO
Impressive build and durability
Downsides
Disappointing Super 35 mode
Menus can be tough to navigate
The Sony FX6 is a powerhouse cinema camera with a remarkable blend of advanced features and user-friendly design. Equipped with a 10.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, the FX6 delivers stunning 4K resolution with impressive low-light performance thanks to its high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. Its compact and lightweight build makes it highly portable without compromising on durability.
The FX6 boasts fast hybrid autofocus, which ensures sharp, precise focus even in challenging conditions. With support for up to 120fps in 4K, the FX6 captures smooth, cinematic slow-motion footage. Additionally, its versatile connectivity options and professional-grade codecs provide filmmakers with the flexibility and quality needed for high-end production.
Whether you're shooting a feature film, documentary or commercial, the Sony FX6 is a reliable and versatile choice that meets the demands of modern filmmaking.
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro: Best Budget Cine Camera
Used Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro
Specs
Bright 1500 cd/m² tilting HDR LCD
Super 35 HDR sensor, Gen 5 colour science
Record 6K 6144 x 3456 up to 50fps
Dual native 400 & 3200 ISO to 25,600
USB type-C recording, 3D LUT support
13-stop dynamic range, autofocus support
Upsides
Record up to 120fps
Built-in ND filters
Adjustable built-in screen
Downsides
400 base ISO
Limited stabilisation features
The Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6k Pro EF stands out as the best budget cinema camera due to its impressive blend of professional-grade features and affordability.
Boasting a Super 35 sensor with 13 stops of dynamic range and dual native ISO, it delivers stunning image quality even in challenging low-light conditions. The camera supports 6K resolution, ensuring crisp footage that meets the demands of modern filmmaking. Additionally, the 6K Pro includes built-in ND filters, a tiltable HDR touchscreen and an improved battery life, enhancing its usability on set. Its compatibility with EF lenses also offers flexibility for various shooting styles.
With robust features typically found in higher-end models, the Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro provides exceptional value for filmmakers seeking a versatile and high-performance camera without breaking the bank.
Canon EOS C70: Best Run-and-Gun Cinema Camera
Used Canon C70
Specs
Super 35 dual gain output (DGO) sensor
DCI 4K 60p, high-speed UHD 4K 120p/2K 180p
RF lens mount/EF mount with adaptor
DIGIC DV7 image processor
16+ stops of total dynamic range
Upsides
Dual-pixel CMOS autofocus
Great ergonomics
Long battery life
Easy-to-use touch controls
Downsides
No RAW recording
No menu touch navigation
The Canon EOS C70 is fantastic for run-and-gun cinematography, blending professional quality with portability.
Its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to handle during dynamic shoots, while the Super 35mm Dual Gain Output sensor ensures stunning image quality even in challenging lighting conditions.
The C70 features 4K DCI recording at up to 120fps and supports 2K at up to 180fps, providing filmmakers with impressive slow-motion capabilities.
With built-in ND filters, versatile recording formats, and Canon's renowned Dual Pixel CMOS AF for precise autofocus, this camera empowers filmmakers to capture cinematic footage on the go without compromising on technical excellence.
Whether you're shooting documentaries, events or indie films, the Canon C70 offers the perfect balance of functionality and convenience. You can find out more in our full Canon C70 review.
Canon EOS C300 Mark III: Best Canon Cinema Camera
Used Canon EOS C300 Mark III
Specs
Super 35mm dual gain output (DGO) sensor
DIGIC DV7 image processor
4K 120p and 2K CROP 180p
Changeable Canon EF mount
Upsides
Strong build quality
Electronic image stabilisation
Dual-pixel CMOS autofocus for touch autofocus and face detection
Anamorphic lens support
Improved colour science
Downsides
Limited outputs
Inconsistent image stabilisation
No timelapse feature
The Canon Cinema EOS C300 Mark III stands out as the premier cinema camera in Canon's lineup.
The C300 boasts a Super 35mm Dual Gain Output sensor that delivers exceptional image quality and dynamic range, even in challenging lighting conditions. It provides smooth, high-quality slow-motion footage capable of recording in 4K DCI at up to 120fps and 2K at up to 180fps.
The C300 Mark III is equipped with 16+ stops of dynamic range, built-in ND filters, and various codec options, including Cinema RAW Light and XF-AVC, offering unparalleled flexibility in post-production. Its advanced Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus is crucial for capturing sharp images in dynamic environments.
Canon removed the timelapse function and limited the number of outputs, but these negatives pale in comparison to the positives.
Panasonic Lumix GH6: Best Panasonic Cinema Camera
Used Panasonic Lumix GH6
Specs
25.2-megapixel live MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor
4K60 4:2:2 10-bit unlimited recording
Dual I.S. 2, 7.5-stop 5-axis stabiliser
100-25600 native ISO range
Upsides
Unlimited internal recording at 4K60fps
Impressive image stabilisation
Strong dynamic range
Downsides
Autofocus is contrast-only
The Panasonic DC-GH6 cinema camera is a high-performance mirrorless camera designed for professional videography that offers 5.7K video recording at up to 60fps and 4K at 120fps.
The GH6 features advanced in-body image stabilisation, a new Venus Engine processor for enhanced video and photo quality and a rugged weather-sealed body for versatile shooting conditions. Additionally, the GH6 supports various professional-grade video codecs, making it a nifty tool for filmmakers.
Sony FX3: Best Sony Cinema Camera
Used Sony FX3
Specs
12.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS Exmor R sensor
UHD 4K up to 120; 1080p up to 240
Phase detection autofocus/face tracking/eye autofocus
80 to 409,600 expanded ISO
10-bit 4:2:2 XAVC S-I,16-bit raw output
Upsides
Outstanding image quality
Impressive autofocus
Great in low light
Dual card slots
Downsides
Weak battery life
No built-in ND filters
No XLR mic
Since we've already picked the FX6 as our best all-rounder, we’ll showcase another standout option: the Sony FX3.
The FX3 redefines what's possible in a compact cinema camera with a blend of power and portability that's hard to beat. With its 10.2-megapixel full-frame sensor and ability to capture stunning 4K video at up to 120fps, this camera shines in any lighting condition.
Its sleek design features a vari-angle touchscreen and pro-grade audio inputs, making it perfect for both solo creators and dynamic film crews. Advanced autofocus and top-notch image stabilisation ensure your shots are always sharp and steady. The Sony FX3 is a game-changer for those who want cinematic quality without the bulk, making it an essential tool for modern filmmakers.
Check out our camera comparison between the FX3 and the Sony Venice CineAlta 6K for more info and footage and read our In the Field: Sony FX3 review to find out more about underwater photography.
Honourable Mentions
Keeping an eye out for something else? Let’s look at a few cameras that just missed the cut.
Equipped with a full-frame 24.2-megapixel sensor and 14+ stops of dynamic range, the Panasonic DC-BS1H delivers stunning image quality with rich details and superb low-light performance. Its ability to record 6K resolution footage at up to 24 fps and 4K at up to 60 fps provides flexibility for various cinematic needs. It’s an exceptional tool for filmmakers looking to elevate their production value.
The DJI Ronin 4D-6K cinema camera is a cutting-edge tool that combines advanced stabilisation and a powerful 6K full-frame sensor for stunning video quality. Its unique 4-axis stabilisation system ensures smooth, shake-free footage, while features like LiDAR focusing and wireless transmission make shooting easier and more flexible. Its pro-grade performance in a user-friendly package makes it perfect for a variety of cinematic projects.
The Blackmagic Ursa Mini Pro 12K is a cutting-edge cinema camera made for professional filmmakers. Its versatility, with interchangeable lens mounts and comprehensive recording options, allows for seamless integration into various production environments. This camera is ideal for high-end film and television production, providing exceptional image quality and creative flexibility.
What to Consider When Buying a Cinema Camera
Consider several key factors to ensure you get the right cine camera for your needs.
First, image quality is paramount, including resolution (4K, 6K or 8K) and dynamic range, which affects the ability to capture details in both shadows and highlights. Next, think about sensor size (full-frame, APS-C or Micro Four Thirds) as it influences depth of field and low-light performance.
Lens compatibility is another crucial aspect, as it determines the range of creative options and flexibility for different shooting conditions. Check the camera’s connectivity options, such as XLR inputs for professional audio, HDMI ports for monitoring and USB or wireless capabilities for data transfer and remote control.
Portability and ergonomics should also be considered, especially if you want to shoot on the go or in challenging environments. A compact and lightweight design can be beneficial as long as it doesn't compromise essential features.
Finally, budget is a significant factor. Weigh the camera's features against its price to find the best value for your investment.
Final Thoughts
With the sheer number of fantastic cinema cameras available, there isn’t necessarily a single “best” camera. However, we hope this guide gives you a clearer idea of what to buy to achieve your creative vision. Simply find the camera that best suits your needs and your budget and start creating.
For more camera gear guides, tips and techniques and expert interviews, visit the MPB content hub.