Sigma fp L
Announced March 25, 2021
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Good
The Sigma fp L is a highly specialized, ultra-compact full-frame camera that delivers impressive 61MP image quality and robust video features in a unique modular body. That said, its reliance on an electronic shutter, lack of in-body stabilization, and quirky ergonomics make it a niche tool that requires a specific workflow compared to more general-purpose cameras.
Weighted from 19 reviewer scores
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight full-frame design
- High-resolution 61-megapixel sensor with excellent detail and color
- Versatile video capabilities including raw output and cinema-focused tools
- Robust build quality with integrated heat management
- Modular system allowing for useful accessories like the EVF-11
Cons
- Ergonomic limitations including fixed screen, missing joystick, and button placement
- Inconsistent or slow autofocus performance
- Poor battery life and inconvenient power management
- Slow electronic shutter causing rolling shutter distortion and banding
- Lack of in-body image stabilization
- Launch price $2,499 (USD)
- Sensor 61MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS
- Video 4K 25p
What the Reviewers Say
All 19 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 5.5/10
The Sigma fp L is flawed, but it’s not entirely a bad camera. However, the other options out there that are more well-rounded in design and performance make the Sigma fp L hard to recommend.
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Just below this switch is a 1/4-20 (tripod-style) mounting point, which can be used to attach a camera strap and below this are a headphone socket and USB-C passthrough that means you can continue to output data to an external SSD. However, there’s no HDMI pass-through.
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I just don't see the point of this camera, and a lot of these issues cannot be saved by firmware. [...] I cannot recommend this camera.
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The Sigma FP L is full of potential, it just needs the right situation to shine.
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What I see here with the new camera is an evolution and not a revolution. That said, the new SIGMA fp L is simply a nice camera to work with and somehow it feels to have matured a bit to a refined device from its predecessor.
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Like its 24MP stablemate, the Sigma fp L is a curious, quirky beast that’s difficult to compare to other cameras.
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The Sigma FP-L is a very quirky little camera. It is incredibly small and light for such a high resolution instrument, but the modular design also means that by the time you add on some of the basic accessories built into most competing cameras that advantage is lost.
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For those within this thing's niche, the Sigma fp L could make itself really quite useful. Those looking for a more general purpose camera with lots of features or something more friendly for beginners should look elsewhere.
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The Sigma fp L, like the fp, is a unique camera, and one that will appeal to a fairly narrow set of the market.
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[T]here's a lot to like about the new Sigma fp L, but as with the original version, it remains a rather niche camera despite Sigma's best efforts to broaden its appeal.
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The Sigma fp L is a quirky and likeable camera that can shoot ultra-high res stills but is also a full-on cinema camera – and it does this without technically compromising either function. But there are some handling and performance issues.
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The Sigma fp L pushes the limits of tech with a 60MP full-frame sensor and an extensible design concept, but its electronic shutter readout makes it unsuitable for handheld photography.
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Sigma has made a serious effort to court filmmakers with its fp series and the fp L is no exception.
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It’s a complete package for cinema shooters or photo shooters. A true hybrid with spectacular specs and performance across the board.
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The Sigma fp L is truly the best modular do-it-all camera I've ever come across. It's great for stills, great for video, and I really can't find a downside.
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The Sigma fp concept in general has always been really fascinating to me, both in the original model and here in the Sigma fp L.
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The Sigma fp L is an interesting camera. On the one hand, it has a beautiful 61 MP sensor and all a high pixel count can deliver, and on the other hand, you have a unique camera user experience that is neither good nor bad; it just is unique.
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I can definitely recommend this if you understand what you're getting yourself into. [...] I think there are a lot of users that love this form factor, love the capability that it offers; it just means that you have to work a little bit harder and know exactly what you want.
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I have been incredibly impressed with this camera. The highlight recovery alone is astonishing.
