Nikon ZR vs. Sony FX3: The Ultimate Compact Cinema Camera Showdown

In the ever-evolving world of hybrid filmmaking, where creators demand portability without sacrificing professional-grade performance, two cameras stand out as benchmarks for compact cinema excellence: Nikon’s groundbreaking ZR and Sony’s enduring FX3. Released in September 2025 as part of Nikon’s Z CINEMA series—a collaboration infused with RED Digital Cinema’s renowned technology—the ZR arrives as a fresh challenger to the FX3, which has held court since its 2021 debut. Both are full-frame powerhouses designed for run-and-gun shooters, indie filmmakers, and content creators who need high-end video in a lightweight package.

But which one reigns supreme? This evergreen comparison dives deep into their specs, real-world performance, and unique strengths to help you decide. Whether you’re grading in post, chasing low-light magic, or building a minimal rig, we’ll break it down category by category. Let’s roll the tape.

Design and Build: Portability Meets Professionalism

At first glance, both cameras prioritize a “cage-free” ethos, allowing direct accessory mounting without bulky rigs. The Nikon ZR measures 133 x 81 x 49mm and weighs just 540g (body only), making it the lightest in its Z CINEMA lineup—ideal for handheld gimbal work or solo shoots. Its magnesium alloy body boasts superior dust- and drip-resistance, with a large 4.0-inch tilting touchscreen for easy monitoring in tight spaces. Nikon even includes tally lights for multi-cam setups via HDMI-CEC, a nod to professional production workflows.

The Sony FX3, slightly bulkier at 130 x 78 x 85mm and 715g (with battery and card), counters with a more ergonomic grip tailored for extended handheld sessions. It features multiple 1/4”-20 mounting points and a detachable XLR handle for pro audio inputs, plus a fan for active cooling to prevent overheating during long takes. Sony’s build feels more refined for pros, but the ZR’s featherweight design edges it out for travel and mobility-focused creators.

Winner: Nikon ZR for sheer portability, though the FX3’s grip wins for comfort in prolonged use.

Sensor and Image Quality: Resolution vs. Low-Light Prowess

Both cameras pack full-frame sensors, but their approaches diverge sharply. The ZR’s 25MP partially stacked CMOS (borrowed from the Z6 III) delivers crisp detail for 6K open-gate recording, with RED’s R3D NE RAW codec ensuring color-accurate files that match higher-end RED cameras. Dynamic range hits around 14 stops, with vibrant color science that grades effortlessly in DaVinci Resolve. In side-by-side tests, the ZR pulls ahead in clarity and highlight recovery, especially for daylight exteriors or detailed landscapes.

Sony’s FX3, with its 12.1MP BSI CMOS (shared with the a7S III), is a low-light legend. Its native ISO range of 80-102,400 (expandable to 409,600) and 15+ stops of dynamic range shine in dim environments, producing noise-free footage even at high ISOs. S-Cinetone delivers natural skin tones out of camera, while S-Log3 offers grading flexibility. However, its 4K max resolution feels dated next to the ZR’s 6K capabilities, and rolling shutter distortion is more pronounced in fast pans.

Winner: Tie—ZR for resolution and modern workflows, FX3 for shadowy scenes like night shoots or interiors.

Video Features: Codecs, Codecs, Codecs

Video is where these cameras earn their cinema stripes. The ZR supports internal 6K/60p RAW (R3D NE) and 4K/120p, with no crop factors for anamorphic lenses—perfect for widescreen epics. Its partially stacked sensor clocks a blistering 9.44ms readout speed, minimizing jello effect during motion. A standout innovation: the world’s first 32-bit float audio recording, using Nokia’s OZO tech with five pickup patterns via the built-in mic. No more clipping disasters in unpredictable soundscapes.

The FX3 counters with 4K/120p in 10-bit 4:2:2 XAVC S-I or RAW output via HDMI, plus 16-bit RAW externally. Its 8.8ms readout is marginally faster, making it a benchmark for smooth slow-mo. S-Log3/HLG support ensures seamless integration with Sony’s Cinema Line, and the active fan allows unlimited recording times. Audio options are robust with dual XLR inputs, but it lacks the ZR’s float recording.

Winner: Nikon ZR for higher resolution, RAW internals, and audio innovation—though FX3’s ecosystem ties make it a safe bet for Sony loyalists.

Autofocus and Stabilization: Tracking the Action

Autofocus reliability can make or break a shoot. The ZR inherits the Z6 III’s advanced subject detection (people, animals, vehicles) with 10ms readout for sticky tracking, even in 6K. Eye AF is precise, and it handles backlit subjects with separate exposure metering. Paired with 8-stop IBIS (sensor-shift), it’s a beast for handheld run-and-gun.

The FX3’s 627-point phase-detection AF covers 89% of the frame, with real-time Eye/Face tracking that’s battle-tested in pro video. Its 5-axis IBIS matches the ZR’s effectiveness, but low-light AF down to -6 EV gives it an edge in challenging conditions. Both excel, but Sony’s polish feels more “set it and forget it.”

Winner: Sony FX3 for refined, low-light AF reliability.

Battery Life and Storage: Endurance in the Field

The ZR’s EN-EL15c battery lasts about 120 minutes of 4K video, with dual CFexpress Type B/SD slots for redundancy. Its lightweight build means less drain on power, but no active cooling could lead to thermal limits in extreme heat.

The FX3 squeezes 95 minutes from its NP-FZ100 battery, extendable with the handle, and uses dual CFexpress Type A/SD slots. The built-in fan ensures it powers through marathon sessions without throttling.

Winner: Sony FX3 for unlimited recording potential.

Lens Compatibility: Ecosystem Wars

Here’s where Sony flexes its muscle: over 330 native E-mount lenses, including 80+ from Sony alone, cater to every need from primes to zooms. Third-party support is unmatched.

The ZR’s Z-mount has around 40 native lenses, but adapters unlock F, PL, and even E-mount glass with near-full functionality (AF, IBIS). Nikon’s RED integration promises more cinema optics soon, but Sony’s library is the current king.

Winner: Sony FX3—hands down—for immediate options.

Price and Value: The Budget Breaker

At $2,199 body-only, the ZR is a steal, undercutting the FX3’s $3,900–$4,100 tag by nearly half. Bundles with adapters make it even more accessible for cross-system shooters. Early Amazon sales have propelled it to #44 in mirrorless best-sellers, outpacing the FX3.

The FX3 justifies its premium with proven reliability and ecosystem depth, but in 2025, the ZR’s value proposition disrupts the market.

Winner: Nikon ZR for unbeatable bang-for-buck.

Who Should Buy What?

• Choose the Nikon ZR if: You’re an indie filmmaker or hybrid creator prioritizing resolution, RAW workflows, and affordability. Its RED heritage and audio smarts make it future-proof for growing productions, especially with adapters bridging lens gaps.
• Choose the Sony FX3 if: You need battle-tested low-light performance, a vast lens ecosystem, and Sony’s seamless integration. It’s ideal for pros locked into the Cinema Line or those valuing ergonomics over bleeding-edge specs.

In this clash of titans, the Nikon ZR emerges as the disruptor—delivering more pixels, smarter audio, and superior value to challenge the FX3’s throne. Yet Sony’s refined ecosystem ensures it remains a staple. Ultimately, test them in your workflow: rent, shoot, grade, and see what sparks your creativity. The best camera is the one that gets you telling stories, not sitting on a shelf. What’s your pick?