“Netflix Approved” means that the cameras have the minimum specs required to ensure the expected quality of a Netflix original. To help creatives produce their best work and create compelling visual experiences for our audience, Netflix pays close attention to its camera technology decisions.
Contents
- What are the capture requirements defined by Netflix?
- 8 of the Best Netflix Approved Cameras
- Conclusion
What are the capture requirements defined by Netflix?
Netflix has given minimum capture attributes to meet image capture standards.
Resolution
- Minimum of 3840 photosite capture width (Spherical)
Codec
- Lightly Compressed or Uncompressed RAW
- or Intraframe Based Codec with 4:2:2 Chroma-subsampling or Greater
Bit Depth
- 10-Bit or Greater
Data Rate
- Minimum 240Mbps at 24FPS
Color Space
- Scene-Referred Color Space (S.Gamut3, ALEXA Wide Gamut, REDWideGamut, etc.)
Transfer Function
- Scene-Referred Transfer Function (Slog3, Log C, Log3G10, VLog, etc.)
8 of the Best Netflix Approved Cameras
This list consists of 8 of the Best Netflix Approved Cameras in 2024.
1. Sony FX6
It is difficult to find a camera that can match the Sony FX6 in terms of its features such as:
- Professional Controls and Ergonomics
- Multi-Channel Audio
- ND Filters
- A Long Battery Life
All of which contribute to make it a worthy rival to real cinema cameras.
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent in Low Light
- Higher ISO Range
- Great to Operate
Reasons to Avoid:
- Menu Systems Could be Frustrating
- No Audio Inputs on Main Body
- No EVF
Price: $5999
2. Canon C70
With Canon’s C70, you get the best of both worlds: a mirrorless and a cinema camera of the highest level. This device has no photographic capability; it is purely a video-capturing device.
Features:
- Recording DCI 4K 60p Resolution Video
- High Frame Rates can be recorded in 4K up to 120 FPS
- 180 FPS in a 2K cropped Super16 mode.
Reasons to Buy:
- DCI 4K 60P Video Resolution
- Built In ND Systems
- Preamp Quality
Reasons to Avoid:
- Missing SDI Output
- No 8K Recording
- No Viewfinder
Price: $5000
3. Red Komodo
RED’s legendary RAW codec and image quality are integrated into this exciting cube design called The Komodo. It is a key player within the professional cinema camera market.
Some scenes from Matrix 4 and The Suicide Squad were shot with this camera
Features:
- 16-bit REDCODE RAW Recording Capability
- Compact Form Factor
- 6K 40 FPS or 2K 120 FPS Recording Formats
Reasons to Buy:
- Recording with the R3D Compressed Raw Format
- Post-Production Compatibility
- Fantastic Handheld Camera
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited High Frame Rate Options
- Requires Additional Accessories
- Limited Input & Output Options
Price: $5999
4. Panasonic S1H
With the Lumix S1H, Panasonic brings many of its high-end VariCam features to the Lumix S range. Controls, interface, and hardware have been designed for video and cinematography, but it’s also a good stills camera at 24MP.
Features:
- 24.2 MP Full-Frame Sensor
- Dual Native ISO
Reasons to Buy:
- Tilt and Free-Angle Rear Monitor
- Ergonomics
- LUTs & Cinema Features
Reasons to Avoid:
- No Raw Video Capture
- Shutter Wheel Placement
- Camera Weight
Price: $4500
5. Sony FX9
The Sony FX9 has a powerful and flexible 4K interchangeable lens camera system. It features a full-frame, oversampled 6K Exmor R CMOS sensor that allows you to capture 4K images with cinematic depth of field.
Features:
- Affordable Full-Frame Camera
- Fast 180FPS for Slow Motion in HD
Reasons to Buy:
- S Cinetone Colour Profile
- Variable ND
- Preamp Quality
Reasons to Avoid:
- Viewfinder Loop
- No Internal RAW Recording
Price: $11000
6. Blackmagic Ursa Mini Pro 4.6k G2
The URSA Mini Pro from Blackmagic Design offers an expanded control set and even greater functionality. The G2 features an updated Super35 4.6K sensor and has fast frame rate recording up to 300 frames per second, and additional recording options.
Features:
- Effective Sensor Size
- Dynamic Range
Reasons to Buy:
- ND Filters
- RAW Codec
- 120 FPS at 4.6K
Reasons to Avoid:
- Outer LCD Screen
- Button Placement
Price: $5500
7. Panasonic’s EVA1
Panasonic’s EVA1 weighs just 1.2kg without a lens, making it a handy run-and-gun camera and even fits on a gimbal, especially if you’re using a pancake lens. There are several features to appreciate about the 3.5-inch screen, namely that you can detach it and reposition it based on your shooting situation.
Features:
- Body Weight of 1.2 KG
- LCD Monitor with Touch Panel
- Detachable Handle and Rotary Grip
Reasons to Buy:
- 5.7K Sensor
- Dual-Native ISO
Reasons to Avoid:
- Reflective Screen
- Ergonomics
Price: $6500
8. Arri Alexa Mini LF
Arri Alexa Mini LF supports native 4K recording in three sensor modes: LF Open Gate, LF 16:9, or LF 2.39:1. With the Alexa LF, you’ll be able to capture images with vivid, nuanced tones and smooth bokeh by combining a large-format resolution with optimal pixel size. It was used to shoot Joker (2019).
Features:
- Immersive Large-Format Look
- High Dynamic Range
Reasons to Buy:
- Compact
- ALEV III Sensor
- 4K UHD Output
Reason to Avoid:
- Expensive
Price: $30000
Conclusion
This list features 8 of the best Netflix Approved Cameras that you could use to create the next big show/movie featured on Netflix. We all know how much of a hassle post-production is in the process of filmmaking. If you wish to streamline this process, check out Postudio. Postudio offers Adobe Premiere Pro & DaVinci Resolve online & on-demand to help you on your filmmaking journey.
