Best Netflix-approved cameras

best Netfilx-approved cameras
(Image credit: Canon)

Are you looking for the best Netflix-approved camera? We've come to the right place. Netflix is arguably the first and most superior streaming service out there. There are lots of challenges, but still, no one compares to the size of Netflix – or comes close in terms of outputting original content.  

As such, the camera technology decisions Netflix makes matter if you want to get your new film, television series, or documentary you’re shooting shown on the pay-to-view channel. If you want your movie or documentary shown on Netflix, you can't shoot with any old camera - it needs to be one on the Netflix-approved list of cameras.

Being “Netflix-approved” means that cameras have the minimum specs required to ensure they offer the expected quality of a Netflix Original. This is a very extensive list of certified, that goes into great detail, which can be viewed in full at the Netflix Partner help center. Some of the models on the list are seriously expensive - and would usually be hired by filmmakers - but there are a surprising number of relatively affordable models in there too.

While it shouldn’t be your only guide when purchasing the best cinema camera, seeing that a certain model is Netflix-approved might be something to seriously consider, especially since many cinema cameras are a big investment, and if you want to make feature productions, you're better starting with a camera that can develop your craft and that Netflix will say yes to.

Sebastian Oakley
Sebastian Oakley

Sebastian has worked as a professional sports photography, specializing in equestrian events. He used many cinema cameras from the likes of Sony, RED, and ARRI - so is familiar with many of the video cameras that are approved by Netflix.

Best Netflix approved cameras: our top picks

Best Netflix approved cameras

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Best hand-held rig

(Image credit: Canon)
Best hand-held rig

Specifications

Resolution: 4K(4608 x 2592)
Formats: 4K DCI at 60p 30p, 24p / 4K UHD at 120, 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p
Sensor size: Super35 CMOS
Mount: Canon RF
Dimentions: 130 x 160 x 115mm
Weight: 2.58 Ib (2.95 Ib with battery)

Reasons to buy

+
120p in UHD 4K
+
180p in 2K
+
DCI 4K 60p video resolution

Reasons to avoid

-
no 8K recording
-
no viewfinder
But if because

High-Resolution Recording: Capable of recording up to DCI 4K 60p resolution, offering excellent video quality.

Versatile Codec Options: Includes Canon's XF-AVC, XF-AVC Intra, and XF-AVC Long GOP, providing high-quality 10-bit, 4:2:2 DCI 4K images with manageable storage needs.

Don't but it because

2K Cropped Mode: The 180 fps option is limited to a cropped Super16 mode, which may not be ideal for all shooting scenarios.

Complex Workflow Management: Simultaneous recording in different formats might require more intricate management during post-production.

This digital cine camera can record up to DCI 4K 60p resolution video to dual slots using widely available and more affordable SD cards. High frame rates can be recorded in 4K up to 120 fps and up to 180 fps in a 2K cropped Super16 mode. 

Codec options include Canon's XF-AVC, XF-AVC Intra, and XF-AVC Long GOP, providing up to 10-bit, 4:2:2 DCI 4K images with reduced storage requirements. To boost your post-production workflow, the versatile EOS C70 supports both proxy recording rates and simultaneous recording in different formats, including 4K/HD and XF-AVC/MP4 options. The EOS C70 can also capture still images to SD card slot B when on standby in select video modes.

With all its features the Canon EOS C70 is a fine cinema camera in its own right and can be used for any shoot as an A camera however, it can also fit into your C300 Mk III workflow as a B camera allowing for smother workflows when a project hits the editing or color grading suite.

Read our full Canon EOS C70 review for more details

Best all-rounder

(Image credit: Adam Duckworth)
Best all-rounder

Specifications

Resolution: 4K (4096 x 2160)
Formats: 4K DCI at 23.98p / 4K UHD at 23.98, 29.97, 50, 59.94p 30p, 25p, 24p
Sensor size: Super35 CMOS
Mount: Sony E
Dimentions: 114 x 116 x 153mm
Weight: 2 lbs

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable full-frame cinema camera
+
Advanced Alpha hybrid AF
+
10-bit 4:2:2 4K/120p and 240fps HD!

Reasons to avoid

-
No internal Raw recording or EVF
-
CFexpress Type A cards expensive and uncommon
But if because

Full-Frame Sensor: Features a full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor, inherited from the Sony A7S III, delivering high-quality video with advanced autofocus capabilities.

DCI 4K Option: Capable of recording in DCI 4K at 17:9 XAVC-I 10-bit 4:2:2, offering a wider aspect ratio and higher recording bit rates for cinematic footage.

Don't but it because

Different Sensor from FX9: Uses the BSI-CMOS sensor from the A7S III rather than the 6K sensor from the FX9, which might be a downside for those expecting higher resolution downsampled footage.

Higher Storage Requirements: The DCI 4K recording at 600Mbps requires significant storage space, which could lead to higher media costs.

The Sony FX6 answers a real need for filmmakers that Sony's mirrorless Alpha cameras do not. For shooting video, there is nothing that comes close to using a real cinema camera that has professional controls and ergonomics, multi-channel XLR audio, built-in ND filters, no overheating issues, and very long battery life. These cameras are purpose-made for the job but have lacked the full-frame sensor and advanced AF features that mirrorless camera users are used to, Until now.

The FX6 doesn’t use the same sensor as the FX9, which is actually 6K but downsampled to 4K. Instead, it inherits the same BSI-CMOS sensor from the Sony A7S III mirrorless camera and also the majority of its video spec and on-sensor phase detection autofocus.

So like the A7S III, the FX6 records in 4K at 60fps full frame with no crop, which is stored internally to SD or the same new CFexpress Type A cards as first used in the A7S III. While the mirrorless camera records only in 4K at 16:9, the FX6 can go to DCI 4K at 17:9 XAVC-I 10-bit 4:2:2 at up to 60p, recording at 600Mbps. But at this super-wide setting, the view actually becomes shallower (in height) to give the DCI-4K aspect ratio. 

Read our full Sony FX6 review for more details

Best Hybrid package

(Image credit: Digital Camera World/Rod Lawton)
Best Hybrid package

Specifications

Resolution: 6K (6000 x 4000)
Formats: 6K 3:2 at 24p, 5.9K at 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97p 5.4K at 25p, 29.97p, DCI 4K at 47.95, 48, 50, 59.94p, UHD 4K at 47.95, 48, 50, 59.94p, 4K anamorphic at 47.95, 48, 50p
Sensor size: full-frame CMOS
Mount: Leica L
Weight: 6.6 lb
Dimensions : 151 x 114.2 x 110.4 mm

Reasons to buy

+
6K video capture
+
Effective as a stills camera too
+
V-Log, LUTs and cinema features

Reasons to avoid

-
No raw video capture
But if because

6K Video Capture: Offers the ability to record in 6K resolution, either in a 3:2 ratio at 24p or 5.9K at 30p/25p/24p, providing exceptional video quality.

It's a Versatile Camera: Acts as a bridge between conventional system cameras and high-end cine gear, making it suitable for both still photography and advanced cinematography.

Don't but it because

Processing Limitations: When capturing in 6K or 5.9K, the camera is restricted to a cropped Super 35mm format, which may not be ideal for all shooting scenarios.

8-Bit Restrictions: While it offers 8-bit recording, it may not be sufficient for footage that requires extensive grading, potentially leading to banding and clipping issues.

With the Lumix S1H, Panasonic has used its considerable video experience to bring many of its high-end VariCam features to the Lumix S range. The controls, the interface, and certainly the hardware have been built for video and cinematography, and the fact it’s also a very serviceable 24MP stills camera is a bonus. It’s a very interesting ‘bridge’ between conventional system cameras and higher-end cine gear, especially for existing Panasonic videographers, it has the power for professional video productions.

The headline spec is its ability to capture 6K video (yes, 6K), either in a 3:2 ratio at 24p and 10-bit 4:2:0 quality, or 5.9K in a conventional 1:9 ratio at 30p/25p/24p. At this level, though, processing power is the limiting factor, so with 6K or 5.9K capture, you’re restricted to the cropped Super 35mm format.

The bit-depth is important. 8-bit capture is OK for video footage that’s not going to be heavily edited or ‘graded’ later, but if you’re going to apply heavy adjustments and especially if you’re going to use V-Log modes, you really need the extra bit-depth of 10-bit capture to avoid banding, clipping and other artifacts. 

The S1H does offer full-frame (uncropped) capture for 4K, with 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording and speeds up to 60p. You can use 60fps capture and playback for fast action, or 30fps playback for a 2x slow motion effect.

Read our full Panasonic S1H review for more details

Most affordable full-frame

(Image credit: Adam Duckworth/Digital Camera World)
Most affordable full-frame Netflix camera

Specifications

Resolution: 4K (4096x2160)
Formats: Cine 4K up to 59.94p, 4K up to 59.94p, HD up to 59.94p
Sensor size: full-frame 6K
Mount: Sony E
Dimentions: 146 x 142.5 x 29 mm
Weight: 4.4 lbs

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable full-frame cinema camera
+
Fast 180fps for slow motion in HD
+
Advanced hybrid AF and digital audio

Reasons to avoid

-
No internal RAW recording
-
No touch-to-focus screen
But if because

Advanced Autofocus System: Incorporates the hybrid autofocus system from Sony's Alpha mirrorless cameras, providing highly customizable and reliable AF for professional shoots.

Professional Features: Includes stepless built-in ND filters, long battery life, and professional connections like SDI and XLR, making it well-suited for serious videographers.

Don't but it because

4K Output from 6K Sensor: The 6K sensor is oversampled to produce a 4K image, which may not appeal to those specifically seeking native 6K recording.

High Price Point: While offering great value, the FX9 is still a significant investment, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious filmmakers.

The Sony FX9 is a serious full-frame video camera that, despite its price, offers great value for serious videographers. Sony, of course, knows a lot about what serious filmmakers need – as proven by the popularity of its FS7 camera which has been a smash hit since its launch. It’s been the mainstay of many independent production companies all over the world, thanks to its Super35mm sensor, fast frame rates, and great image quality. 

But time and technology have moved on, and the most discerning cinematographers now want a full-frame sensor ideal for high ISO performance and shallow depth of field, along with a useable AF system that uses phase detection and is hugely customizable. Live streaming is also far more important than ever, and for those who want to grade the footage to within an inch of its life, internal RAW recording is the way to go.

Sony’s answer is to make a super-advanced version of the FS7 with its stepless built-in ND filters, long battery life, professional connections such as SDI and XLR audio inputs, and great ergonomics. Then use a backside-illuminated, full-frame sensor and the super-advanced hybrid autofocus system from the Alpha mirrorless cameras. 

For even better control of noise, Sony added Dual Base ISO 800/4000 and S-Cinetone color science from the upmarket Venice cinema camera which costs around three times as much. This is an amazing camera that offers a lot of professional features, if you are not looking for a full-frame sensor and don't mind its 6K sensor oversampling to a final 4K image, the FX9 is really a great choice.

Read our full Sony FX9 review for more details

Best box-style

(Image credit: Sebastian Oakley / Digital Camera World)
Best box-style camera for Netflix

Specifications

Sensor size: 35mm full-frame
Sensor resolution: 24.2 megapixels
Card slots: 2 x UHS II SD
Lens mount: Leica L
Max shooting resolution: 6K
Display size: None
EVF: No

Reasons to buy

+
12-bit raw video when using an external recorder 
+
Excellent low light performance
+
Live streaming capabilities 

Reasons to avoid

-
No screen
-
Doesn't come with a battery
But if because

High-Resolution Recording: Equipped with a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor capable of recording 6K 24p or 4K 60p 10-bit video, offering high-quality footage.

Modular Design: The box-style form factor allows for flexible rigging and the ability to attach external devices like the Atomos Ninja V for 12-bit raw video output.

Don't but it because

No Built-In Screen: The lack of a built-in display may require additional equipment for monitoring, which can increase setup complexity and cost.

Limited Full-Frame 4K Options: When using the entire full-frame sensor area, the camera is limited to 4K 30p 10-bit recording, which might not meet the needs of all users.

For serious video shooters, the Panasonic Lumix BSH1 box cam can make a lot of sense as it can be rigged up for a multitude of different uses. It has a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor with Dual Native ISO technology, 14+ stops of dynamic range, and an OLPH (Optical Low Pass Filter) which helps to suppress moire and false colors and make it excellent in low light.

It's capable of recording 6K 24p or 4K 60p 10 bit when using an image area equivalent to Super 35mm. If you're using the entire 35mm sensor area, it can shoot 4K 30p 10-bit 4.2.2 in H.264.

With live streaming growing increasingly popular, the BS1H is capable of transmitting high-quality footage to social streaming platforms over a wired LAN collection. It can stream 4K 60p video in H.265 which means the bit rate is halved and the image quality is kept the same.

The lack of a screen may be off-putting but its modular system means you can easily attach an external recorder such as the Atmos Ninja V which will also make it capable of outputting 12-bit raw video. 

Read our full Panasonic Lumix BS1H review for more details

Best for still and video

(Image credit: Will Cheung)
Best for still and video

Specifications

Sensor: 45MP Full-frame CMOS
Lens mount: RF
Video: 8K DCI at 60p, 24p / 4K UHD at 120, 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p
Size: 142 x 101 x 111mm
Weight (body only): 680g (770g with card + battery)

Reasons to buy

+
8K video up to 60p
+
Unlimited record time
+
4K 120p slow-motion with audio

Reasons to avoid

-
only RAW light internally
But if because

8K Video Capability: Features an 8K CMOS sensor capable of recording up to 8K 60p video in Cinema RAW Light format, providing exceptional video quality without the need for an external recorder.

Still Photography Excellence: Shares the same 45MP CMOS sensor and Digic X image processor as the Canon EOS R5, offering exceptional image quality for stills.

Don't but it because

Power Limitation for 8K Recording: Requires mains power to record 8K video at 60p, with battery operation limited to 8K 30p, which might be a drawback for mobile shooting.

Complexity in Operation: Balancing both high-end video and stills features can be overwhelming for users who need a simpler workflow.

The 8K CMOS sensor within the Canon EOS R5 C can produce high-quality video at up to 8K 60p resolution (while connected to mains power; using batteries, it maxes out at 30p) while using the Cinema RAW Light format, which is a high-efficiency mode that enables internal card recording without an external recorder. 

The EOS R5 C camera supports HDR recording in Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) and Perceptual Quantization (PQ) format, which helps ensure full color rendition and wide latitude with a great range from black to pure white – which can work wonders for delivering of livestreams, broadcasts, and post-production projects. Both 5.9K in Super 35mm and 2.9K in Super 16mm are also available for internal recording to the CFexpress card.

Still-imaging features and operation are nearly identical to Canon's EOS R5 camera. The R5 C camera features the same 45MP CMOS sensor and a slightly modified Digic X image processor capable of ISO100-51,200 (expandable to 102,400 – though the R5 C also boasts Dual Base ISO for superior video). All this means peak performance and phenomenal image quality for big prints, impressive video and more.

Read our full Canon EOS R5 C review

Best compact camera

(Image credit: Rod Lawton/Digital Camera World)
Best compact Netflix-approved camera

Specifications

Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: Full frame
Sensor resolution: 12.1MP
Lens mount: Sony FE
4K frame rates: 120p max
4K sensor crop factor: 1x
Standard ISO range: 80-102,400
Memory cards: 2x SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS II)/CFexpress Type A

Reasons to buy

+
4K 120p
+
Active cooling
+
627 AF points
+
Carry/filming handle included

Reasons to avoid

-
Pricier than the A7S III
-
Alpha design not FX
But if because

Detachable Handle with XLR Inputs: Comes with a detachable handle that includes XLR audio inputs, enhancing audio recording quality and versatility on set.

Integrated Mounting Points: The FX3 is equipped with integrated mounting points, making it easier to rig up for various shooting scenarios without additional cages or accessories.

Don't but it because

High Demand: Due to its recent release and high demand, availability might be limited, and thorough testing by reviewers is still pending.

Unconventional Appearance: The speckled grey color and overall design may not appeal to users who prefer the traditional look of cinema cameras.

What sets the Sony FX3 apart from other video-centric Sony cameras such as the Sony A7S III is the speckled grey color of the casing. We have a sneaky suspicion that the FX3 is what the A7S III should've been all along and despite being part of the FX family it very much looks like the Alpha series cameras. 

However, the FX3 is without a doubt a certified movie camera complete with Sony Cinetone0S color science, a detachable handle with XLR audio input, integrated mounting points, and a movie-specific control layout that is a complete change to what we know on existing Alpha models.

It's so new that we still haven't been able to test it yet due to high demand but we suspect that once we've had the chance to put it through its paces it's likely to appear much higher on this list. 

Read our Hands on: Sony FX3 review for more details

Best PTZ cinema

(Image credit: Sony)

8. Sony FR7

Best PTZ camera for Netflix productions

Specifications

Resolution: 4K (4096 x 2160)
Formats: DCI 4K, UHD 4K, 1920 x 1080
Sensor size: Full Frame
Mount: Sony E-Mount
Dimentions: 289 x 233 x 227 mm
Weight: 10.1 lb / 4.6 kg (body only)

Reasons to buy

+
Full Frame PTZ
+
Can be remote operated
+
Use all Sony E-mount lenses

Reasons to avoid

-
Extremely expensive
But if because

Remote Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) Control: Allows for high flexibility in remote camera operation, breaking through traditional location and space limitations, ideal for complex shooting environments.

Versatile Connectivity: Supports 4K RAW 16-bit recording over SDI or BNC, as well as DCI 4K and UHD 4K internal recording, making it a strong choice for both broadcasting and film production.

Don't but it because

High Cost: As a professional-grade camera with advanced features, the FR7 may be priced out of reach for smaller production teams or individual creators.

Niche Use Case: The specialized nature of PTZ cameras like the FR7 may limit its appeal to a broader audience, making it more suited for specific production environments.

The Sony FR7 has a full-frame image sensor and Sony’s extensive E-mount lens lineup work with remote pan/tilt/zoom control, high flexibility in zoom capability, and wide-angle shooting to break through location and space limitations. It also offers the cinematic look and operability that have made Sony digital cinema cameras push the boundaries of the filmmaking industry, plus versatile connectivity and efficient multi-camera workflow support.

The fun features do not stop there. The FR7 is also compatible with the full Sony PTZ controller range with ethernet, so operators will have a seamless transition. For the digital age, though, Sony has developed a purely digital offering based on a browser operating system, which enables you to control all the camera settings, select output, and for the even more tech-savvy among us, you can even access, control, and monitor the FR7 from your tablet or phone.

Along with 4K RAW 16-bit recording over SDI or BNC, as well as DCI 4K and UHD 4K recording internally this PTZ camera is certainly up to the task when it comes to broadcasting and film production.

Best for Hollywood

(Image credit: Arri)

9. Arri Alexa Mini LF

Best for Hollywood

Specifications

Resolution: 4.5K (4448 x 3096)
Formats: ArriRAW: 4.5K Open Gate to 40fps, 4.5K 2.29:1 to 60fps, 3.8K 16:9 to 60fps,2.8K 1:1 to 60fps
Sensor size: Large format
Mount: Arri PL
Dimentions: 140 x 143 x 188 mm
Weight: 5.7 lbs

Reasons to buy

+
Amazing color management
+
Vast recording formats
+
Large format sensor
+
compact body design

Reasons to avoid

-
Extremely expensive
But if because

Flexible Recording Modes: Offers native 4K recording in multiple sensor modes (LF Open Gate, LF 16:9, LF 2.39:1) with ARRIRAW or ProRes options, providing versatility for different cinematic needs.

LPL Lens Mount Compatibility: Features Arri’s LPL lens mount, optimized for large-format capture, and compatible with PL-mount lenses using an adapter, accommodating a wide range of lenses.

Don't but it because

High Cost: The Alexa Mini LF's premium features come with a significant price tag, making it inaccessible for most independent filmmakers or smaller studios.

Rental Preference: Due to its high cost, many top studios prefer to rent the Alexa Mini LF rather than purchasing it outright, reflecting its status as a specialized tool rather than a standard investment.

Built around a large-format 4K version of the original ALEXA sensor, the Arri Alexa Mini LF offers a nati