Sony FX2 Available Now at B&H – Love, Hate, and a $100 Cash-Back Special Offer

The Sony FX2 is finally shipping in the U.S., and according to the B&H site, it has already been discounted by $100 (via a cash-back offer). This is one of those rare cases when a brand-new camera shows up with a price cut already attached (but only until 09/30/2025). The $100 cash-back offer isn’t limited to the FX2, but it raises a question: why include a camera that has just been announced? Is it because of the lukewarm reception the camera seemed to receive, or could it be related to the overall purchasing mood our industry is experiencing? Whatever the reason is, the result is beneficial to you, the customer. So let’s take a closer look.

In all my years of reviewing cameras, I can’t recall another case where a new release was met with such a cold shoulder – and for what? What’s more, there seems to be a very big gap between those judging by specifications they’ve read and those actually using the FX2 in the field. Perhaps anticipation of a newer FX3 played a role; had the FX2 been launched alongside it, the reception might have been warmer. Whatever the reason, a price reduction is a good chance to take a closer look at what’s happening, align user expectations, and mention the Sony cash-back offer if you’re considering the “entry-level” Sony cinema camera.

I have no interest in playing the devil’s advocate – Sony certainly doesn’t need me to defend its cameras. As for users? Well, everyone is entitled to express their own opinion, of course. Still, is it too much to ask for patience and a little bit of respect? Even if the camera’s specs were underwhelming on paper for some, let’s wait a few weeks and hear what people who are really using it have to say.

Some facts about the Sony FX2

The main concern expressed by people is the use of an older 33-megapixel full-frame BSI CMOS sensor found inside the Alpha a7 IV and a7C II cameras. This sensor tends to exhibit some rolling shutter effect. Here at CineD, we are currently waiting for Sony to send us a PRODUCTION unit so that we can finally perform our lab test on it. As a rule of thumb, we NEVER conduct lab tests on pre-production models. Others are doing a good job evaluating performance, but please stay tuned for our observations on a production camera with the final firmware installed.

Now, this new camera, although not carrying a new sensor, has some strong cards up its sleeve (especially when comparing it to the a7 IV), namely, tilted EVF and an internal fan for controlling overheating, just to name a few.

Why the hate?

At times, when reading haters’ comments, I wish that the energy had been diverted to creation and a positive attitude. Since reviewing the camera, I received so many emails letting me know that “I’m the only one who is loving it”… Fortunately, now that it is in the hands of others, it is nice to see that actual users like it (A LOT), too. The rule of thumb should be clear. If the FX2 does not suit your needs, why not move on? If it does fulfil your needs, then give it a try. I’m sure you will be pleasantly surprised. It is a great camera for what it does, bringing to the table a solid performance and crisp image. On top of that, it can serve well as a B camera for the FX6 or FX3. (And yes, we are all aware of its shortcomings!)

Why the love?

I can only refer to my experience when working with the camera. I film almost entirely in 24/25p, so the crop factor when filming in 50/60p is less relevant for me, but of course, as someone who reviewed the camera, I was frustrated too when I saw that this was the case. Maybe the thing that attracted me most was the clean image, no overheating issue, and, no less important, the built-in EVF. For the life of me, I can’t understand why so many people prefer working with a monitor instead of an optical or digital viewfinder, a tool that not only helps you expose more accurately and see a proper image in direct sunlight, but also improves handheld stability by adding another point of body support. And, you know what? Let’s be honest, it’s even healthier; I’ve seen so many users looking at the monitor on top of their camera, craning their necks into awkward positions.

$100 cash-back

Until the end of September, Sony, through B&H (and other retailers?), is running a £100 cash-back special offer on several Sony cameras, including the FX2. The other cameras in the FX line that are eligible for the discount are the FX30 and FX3 (not FX3A), some together with lenses and some accessories. (Sony Alpha products are listed, too.) Find the full list here, under “eligible products”. So, as we can see, it is not an isolated offer for the FX2 only; it is just surprising to me that the new camera is also included.

Final thoughts about the Sony FX2

The Sony FX2 is a good camera, and I can guarantee you will enjoy using it and appreciate the image it can produce. At the same time, know and understand what it cannot do and make sure it fits your needs.

Last but not least. Traditionally, around the International Broadcast Convention (IBC), which is taking place in Amsterdam in mid-September, camera manufacturers showcase their new offerings. Given the success of the FX3, it’s safe to assume that other companies watching the market won’t abandon this segment anytime soon. Which brings me to my endpoint: if capable cameras do emerge soon, Sony will likely keep expanding their compact FX line, ensuring that the FX2 won’t be the last word.

Are you someone who has already purchased the Sony FX2? Please share your experience with us in the comment section below. Are you liking it, or do you feel that it didn’t meet your expectations?