Sony has long been a leader in the mirrorless camera space, with its full-frame Alpha series cameras like the A7SIII and now the new FX30 gaining immense popularity among photographers and videographers. But with both cameras touting impressive specs and features, it can be tough deciding which one is the better fit for your creative needs.
In this detailed comparison guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the Sony FX30 and A7SIII across critical categories like video performance, photo capabilities, design, and more. Read on for the full pros and cons analysis!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specs/Features | Sony FX30 | Sony A7SIII |
| Video Resolution | 4K 30p | 4K 120p |
| Max ISO | 102,400 | 409,600 |
| Stabilization | Optical SteadyShot | Optical + Active |
| Autofocus | Fast Hybrid AF | 759-point phase-detection AF |
| Live Streaming | Built-in | Requires external device |
| Photos | 12.1MP | 12.1MP |
| Weather Sealing | Yes | Yes |
| Size | 4.2 x 5.3 x 3.3 in | 5 x 3.8 x 3.1 in |
| Weight | 1.2 lbs | 1.1 lbs |
| Battery Life | 430 shots | 600 shots |
| Price | $3,900 | $3,500 |
Video Performance
For many creators, video capabilities are the most important consideration when choosing between the FX30 and A7SIII. Here’s how they stack up:
Resolution
- FX30: Up to 4K 30p
- A7SIII: Up to 4K 120p
The A7SIII offers higher maximum video resolution with its 4K 120p shooting, allowing for smooth slow motion during editing.
Codec
- FX30: XAVC HS
- A7SIII: XAVC S-I
Both cameras use advanced codecs that enable high bitrates for excellent image quality, but the A7SIII’s XAVC S-I format is more robust.
Low Light Sensitivity
- FX30: ISO 80-102,400
- A7SIII: ISO 80-409,600
With an incredible max ISO over 400,000, the A7SIII is better equipped for dimly lit scenarios. Its larger pixels also aid low light capture.
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Stabilization
- FX30: Optical SteadyShot
- A7SIII: Optical + Active Mode
For handheld shooting, the A7SIII pulls ahead again with its advanced stabilization that combats even intense shake.
Autofocus
- FX30: Fast Hybrid AF
- A7SIII: 759-point phase-detection AF
Sony’s latest real-time tracking and Eye AF capabilities give the A7SIII’s autofocus an edge for video.
Live Streaming
- FX30: Yes, built-in
- A7SIII: Requires external device
A big advantage of the FX30 is that it can live stream directly to platforms like YouTube without any extra gear.
Verdict: For serious video professionals, the A7SIII delivers superior performance, especially in low light scenarios. But the FX30 holds its own with strong codecs and live streaming capabilities.
Photo Capabilities
Beyond video, both cameras also boast formidable specs for still photography:
Resolution
- FX30: 12.1MP
- A7SIII: 12.1MP
With equal resolution sensors, image detail is comparable between the two cameras.
Continuous Shooting
- FX30: Up to 10 fps
- A7SIII: Up to 10fps
You can capture fast action at the same quick burst rates on either model.
ISO Range
- FX30: 80-102,400
- A7SIII: 80-409,600
The A7SIII offers a far higher maximum ISO for low light photography.
In-Body Image Stabilization
- FX30: Yes, 5-axis
- A7SIII: Yes, 5-axis
Both provide 5-axis sensor-shift stabilization to reduce blur from camera shake.
Autofocus
- FX30: Fast Hybrid AF
- A7SIII: 759-point phase-detection AF
Sony’s latest subject tracking AF gives the A7SIII an advantage here too.
Verdict: With the same resolution and burst speeds, the FX30 and A7SIII are quite evenly matched for still photos. But the A7SIII’s superior ISO range and AF gives it the edge for image quality.
Also Read: Differences Between Sony ZV-1 And Canon G7X Mark III.
Design & Handling
Sony packs many shared features into the compact bodies of both the FX30 and A7SIII, but there are some design differences:
Body Construction
- FX30: Magnesium alloy
- A7SIII: Magnesium alloy
Durable, robust metal bodies on both models make them suitable for field use.
Weather Sealing
- FX30: Yes
- A7SIII: Yes
Weather sealing provides protection from dust and moisture on either camera.
Size & Weight
- FX30: 4.2 x 5.3 x 3.3 in, 1.2 lbs
- A7SIII: 5 x 3.8 x 3.1 in, 1.1 lbs
The FX30 has a somewhat smaller, lighter build overall.
EVF/Monitor
- FX30: 0.39-in EVF, 3-in vari-angle touchscreen
- A7SIII: 0.64-in EVF, 3-in vari-angle touchscreen
Both feature handy articulating rear screens and viewfinders, with a higher resolution EVF on the A7SIII.
Controls & Ports
- FX30: Multi-interface shoe, mic jack, full-size HDMI
- A7SIII: Multi-interface shoe, mic/headphone jacks, full-size HDMI
A headphone jack on the A7SIII is useful for monitoring audio. But both include key ports.
Verdict: The FX30 gets points for its more compact, portable body design. But the A7SIII also remains highly functional for real-world use.
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Additional Features
Beyond core performance, the FX30 and A7SIII offer some neat extra capabilities:
Battery Life
- FX30: Approx. 430 shots
- A7SIII: Approx. 600 shots
The A7SIII can capture more photos/videos per charge for extended shoots.
Dual Card Slots
- FX30: 1x SDXC
- A7SIII: 2x SDXC
Only the A7SIII provides backup or extended storage with its dual card slots.
Wireless Connectivity
- FX30: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- A7SIII: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Convenient wireless control through a mobile device is available on both.
Vertical Shooting
- FX30: Optional accessory grip
- A7SIII: Optional accessory grip
Vertical grips can be added to either for more comfortable portrait orientation.
Verdict: The A7SIII pulls ahead slightly thanks to its higher battery life and dual card slots. But both offer versatile wireless control and accessories.
Pricing
As Sony’s latest cinema camera, the FX30 commands a premium price:
- Sony FX30: $3,900 (body only)
- Sony A7SIII: $3,500 (body only)
So, you’ll need to shell out $400 more for the FX30. However, it may be worth it for video-first shooters who don’t require the A7SIII’s more robust video specs like 4K 120p and ISO over 400,000.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The FX3 has some advantages over the A7S III, especially for dedicated video use. Its cooling fan allows for unlimited recording times, Active Mode image stabilization provides gimbal-like smoothness, and its design is optimized for video with features like a tally light.
However, the A7S III offers higher resolution 4K 120p video, superior low light ISO, and advanced autofocus that give it the edge for most shooters.
Yes, the FX30 has been approved by Netflix for production use, meaning it meets their technical standards for capturing content for the streaming platform in 4K. Its XAVC HS 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 footage recorded internally can be used for Netflix productions.
The Sony FX3 has a more compact body than the A7S III. The FX3 measures approximately 4.2 x 5.3 x 3.3 inches and weighs 1.2 pounds, while the A7S III is 5 x 3.8 x 3.1 inches and 1.1 pounds. So the FX3 shaves off a bit of width and depth for a more lightweight design.
The Sony FX30 is geared heavily towards videography and cinema production. Its key uses include:
Documentary/travel filming, Vlogging/streaming, Short film production, Wedding/event videography,
TV and commercial production.
Its excellent 4K video quality, live streaming capabilities, and compact Cinema Line design make it an ideal camera for these applications.
Also Read: Differences Between GoPro Hero 8 And GoPro Hero 11.
Conclusion
For many hybrid shooters, the Sony A7SIII represents the best overall choice between these two impressive cameras. It delivers professional-grade video capabilities like 4K 120p, advanced AF, and incredible low light performance that the FX30 can’t quite match. And it holds its own for still photography too with class-leading ISO and AF.
However, the FX30 remains a compelling option for certain users, particularly video-centric creators. Its live streaming abilities and smaller form factor make it a great documentary or travel camera, while still offering strong 4K video quality on par with cinema cameras.
In the end, analyzing your specific needs and budget will determine whether the FX30 or A7SIII is the right investment. But either way, you’ll have an extremely capable imaging tool for creating stunning visual content.