PYXIS VS BMCC6K | Comparison between the new Blackmagic Pyxis 6K and Cinema Camera 6K

Summary

In this video, the creator compares the Blackmagic Pixie 6K with the Cinema Camera 6K, highlighting key similarities like the same full-frame sensor and dual ISO, while exploring differences in design, connectivity, and usability. The Pixie 6K is favored for its rugged build, customizable rig options, and robust SDI connections, making it ideal for studio and documentary work. The Cinema Camera 6K is lighter, more compact, and better for run-and-gun shooting. The creator also shares a brief image comparison and discusses which camera might suit different creative needs.

Takeaways

• 📷 The video compares the new Blackmagic Pixie 6K camera with the Cinema Camera 6K, focusing on their similarities, differences, and pros.
• 🤔 One of the most frequent questions asked is whether to choose the Pixie 6K or Cinema Camera 6K, so the video aims to help viewers make a decision.
• 🎥 Both cameras share the same full-frame 3x2 36x24mm sensor, providing a beautiful image quality.
• 🔧 Despite having the same sensor, slight hardware differences exist, potentially due to factors like body shape, cooling system, and processor.
• 💡 The Pixie 6K has a more robust and customizable box design, built with stronger materials, making it ideal for rigging and professional use.
• 🔌 The Pixie 6K uses SDI connections, while the Cinema Camera 6K uses HDMI. The Pixie also offers more advanced ports and dual media slots.
• 🖥️ A major difference is the screen: Pixie 6K has a 4-inch side screen, while the Cinema Camera 6K features a 5-inch tiltable rear screen.
• 🎚️ The Cinema Camera 6K is lighter and more compact, making it better suited for run-and-gun shooting, travel, and personal projects.
• 💡 The Pixie 6K excels in studio, documentary, and narrative work, while the Cinema Camera 6K is more practical for outdoor and quick setups.
• 🛠️ The decision between the two cameras depends on your shooting style, the type of work, and the accessories and gear you already own.

Q & A

What are the key similarities between the Pixis 6K and the Cinema Camera 6K?

Both cameras share the same full-frame 3x2 36x24mm sensor, offer dual ISO at 400 and 3200, have 13 stops of dynamic range, shoot in Blackmagic RAW, and share some resolution and frame rates. They also use the same menu system, media type, and offer the ability to record to external SSDs.

What are the major differences between the Pixis 6K and the Cinema Camera 6K?

The Pixis 6K has a more robust box-shaped design, SDI connections, a fixed 4-inch side screen, and two media slots. In contrast, the Cinema Camera 6K has a 5-inch tiltable rear screen, HDMI connections, and uses a single CF Express slot. The Pixis also uses BPU batteries, while the Cinema Camera 6K uses NPF batteries.

What makes the Pixis 6K better suited for larger productions?

The Pixis 6K has a more versatile and durable design with stronger materials, making it better for bigger projects. Its SDI connections, two media slots, and better customization options, along with the ability to use cine and anamorphic glass, make it ideal for documentary and narrative work.

What are the advantages of the Cinema Camera 6K for run-and-gun shooting?

The Cinema Camera 6K is lighter and more compact, which makes it ideal for run-and-gun shooting. Its DSLR-like design doesn't attract much attention, making it good for street or travel filming. Additionally, its larger tiltable screen means it doesn’t require an external monitor.

Why might someone choose the Pixis 6K over the Cinema Camera 6K for handheld shooting?

The Pixis 6K's heavier build helps reduce micro jitters, making it a better option for handheld shooting. It also offers more mounting options and a form factor that makes it easier to rig up, providing better control in a handheld setup.

What are the benefits of using SDI connections on the Pixis 6K compared to HDMI on the Cinema Camera 6K?

SDI connections, found on the Pixis 6K, are generally more robust, secure, and durable than HDMI, which is used on the Cinema Camera 6K. This makes SDI preferable for professional workflows that require reliable connections.

How does the weight and size of the two cameras affect their usability?

The Pixis 6K is heavier and denser, making it better for handheld shots and reducing jitter. However, its size makes it less portable. The Cinema Camera 6K, being lighter and more compact, is more portable and better suited for quick, nimble shooting in tight spaces or on the go.

Which camera is better for travel and personal projects, and why?

The Cinema Camera 6K is better for travel and personal projects due to its lighter weight, compact size, and DSLR-like form factor, which doesn't draw attention. It’s more convenient for quick, unplanned shots without the need for external accessories.

What makes the Pixis 6K more customizable than the Cinema Camera 6K?

The Pixis 6K is more customizable due to its box design, which offers more mounting points and the ability to add accessories like side plates, SSD mounts, and rosette mounts. This makes it easier to rig for different shooting styles or project needs.

What are the advantages of using BPU batteries on the Pixis 6K compared to NPF batteries on the Cinema Camera 6K?

BPU batteries, used by the Pixis 6K, offer higher capacity than the NPF batteries used in the Cinema Camera 6K. This provides longer runtime, which is beneficial for extended shooting sessions without frequent battery changes.