ARRI Alexa SXT: Digital cinema camera with S35 sensor (3424×2202 pixels), 120fps, ProRes/ARRIRAW recording, and three body variants (3.2–4.2kg).
Technical Details
The ALEV III sensor measures 23.76 × 13.365mm and delivers a maximum resolution of 3424 × 2202 pixels. The camera operates with native ISO values of 800/1600 and achieves a signal-to-noise ratio of over 74dB. Internal recording is done on CFast 2.0 cards in ProRes formats (422, 422 HQ, 4444, 4444 XQ) or via Codex Compact Drive in ARRIRAW. The SXT offers three model variants: SXT W (Studio), SXT Plus (ENG-Style), and SXT M (compact design). The housing weighs between 3.2kg (M) and 4.2kg (Plus), depending on the variant.
History & Development
ARRI presented the Alexa SXT in February 2016 at NAB as the direct successor to the Alexa XT series. Development aimed at higher frame rates and improved workflow integration. In 2018, a firmware update followed, adding 4K UHD modes for streaming platforms. The SXT marked ARRI's last major update to the classic Alexa platform before the introduction of the Alexa LF in 2018.
Practical Use in Film
Well-known productions such as "Blade Runner 2049" (Roger Deakins), "The Shape of Water" (Dan Laustsen), and "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" (Ben Davis) utilized the Alexa SXT. The camera is particularly suitable for slow-motion sequences due to its 120fps capability and for HDR workflows due to its extended color space. Cinematographers appreciate the consistent color reproduction across different Alexa generations, which simplifies camera mixing in productions.
Comparison & Alternatives
The SXT competes directly with RED Weapon 8K and Sony Venice, but offers ARRI's characteristic skin tone rendition and proven workflow stability. Compared to the previous XT series, ARRI doubled the frame rates and improved codec efficiency. The Alexa LF with a full-frame sensor established itself as its successor in 2018, while the SXT today serves as a proven S35 option for productions with classic focal length setups.