The DJI Ronin 4D and Sony FX3 are both full-frame cinema cameras, but they're built for different jobs. The Ronin 4D is an all-in-one system: a 6K or 8K camera on a 4-axis stabilized gimbal, with built-in ND filters, LiDAR focusing, internal ProRes RAW and wireless video. The Sony FX3 is a tiny 4K body that you build a rig around. Choose the Ronin 4D for moving shots with a small crew. Choose the FX3 for low weight, small spaces and lower cost.
Side by side
| DJI Ronin 4D | Sony FX3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | Full-frame Zenmuse X9, 6K or 8K | Full-frame, 12.1 MP |
| Top video | X9-8K: 8K up to 60 fps, 4K up to 120 fps | 4K up to 120p, 10-bit 4:2:2 |
| Native ISO | 800/5000 (6K), 800/4000 (8K) | 800/12800 in S-Log3 |
| Dynamic range (maker claim) | 14+ stops | 15+ stops |
| Internal RAW | ProRes RAW | No; 16-bit RAW out over HDMI |
| ND filters | Built in, 9 stops (to ND512) | None built in |
| Stabilization | 4-axis gimbal incl. Z-axis | In-body stabilization |
| Focus | LiDAR focusing with manual lenses | Autofocus |
| Wireless video | O3 Pro, about 6 km (FCC) | Needs a transmitter |
| Recording media | PROSSD 1TB, CFexpress Type B, USB-C SSD | CFexpress Type A or SD |
| Lens mount | DL included; L and M supported; E and PL third-party | Sony E |
| Weight | About 4.67 kg full combo, no lens | About 0.7 kg body |
Where the Ronin 4D wins
- Movement. Its 4-axis stabilization includes a Z-axis that cancels the vertical bob of walking. An FX3 needs a gimbal, and even then walking steps show more.
- ND. Nine stops of physical ND inside the camera, from clear to ND512. With an FX3, you swap or rotate screw-on or matte box filters.
- Focus on manual lenses. LiDAR measures distance from 0.3 m up to 10 m and drives cine lenses that have no autofocus.
- Internal RAW and higher resolution. ProRes RAW and 6K or 8K give more room for reframing and grading.
- Built-in wireless video. O3 Pro sends a live feed to a monitor without extra transmitters.
Where the FX3 wins
- Size and weight. At about 0.7 kg with battery and card, it goes into cars, tight rooms, crash cages and drones where the Ronin 4D can't.
- Low light. Its high base ISO of 12800 in S-Log3 is above the Ronin 4D's high native values.
- Autofocus. Sony's autofocus works with native E-mount lenses without extra hardware.
- Cost and ecosystem. Lenses, cages and accessories are everywhere, and it's easy to rent extras.
Building an FX3 rig to match
To get close to a Ronin 4D's workflow with an FX3, you'd add a gimbal such as the DJI RS 4 Pro, a variable ND or matte box, a wireless transmitter and a monitor. That rig is still lighter than a Ronin 4D, but you'll balance and cable it every time you change lenses, and you won't get Z-axis stabilization or internal RAW. Lighter setups can use the DJI RS 4.
Who should choose which
Ronin 4D: narrative and commercial shooters doing lots of moving camera work, owner-operators who want fewer crew, and productions that want internal RAW. See is the Ronin 4D Netflix approved.
FX3: solo shooters, documentary and run-and-gun work, crash-cam and car-mount shots, B-camera use, and tight budgets.
Many crews use both: a Ronin 4D as A-camera and an FX3 for tight spots.
For exposure tips, see DJI Ronin 4D native ISO. The DJI Ronin 4D is quote-only. Call our team at 1-800-613-6323, or browse cinema cameras.
Related guides
- DJI Ronin 4D vs RED Komodo: which cinema camera?
- Best camera gimbal for Sony, Canon and Fuji mirrorless
- Best lenses for the DJI Ronin 4D (mounts and LiDAR focus)
- DJI Ronin 4D native ISO explained (6K and 8K)
- DJI RS 4 camera compatibility list (Sony, Canon, Nikon, Fuji)
- Is the DJI Ronin 4D full frame?
Not sure which to pick?
Tell us what you'll fly and your budget. One of our drone pilots will reply with a recommendation.
Buying drones for a business, agency or store? Get wholesale pricing →
