And just like that: Blackmagic’s much beloved Pocket Cinema Camera 4K has dropped in price by 30%.
With the new price of $995 USD revealed in the last few weeks (down from $1,295), it’s hard to ignore. While it was a price-performance leader before, it’s even more of an incredible value today.
Who knows what impact tariffs could potentially have on cinema cameras specifically (and tech and gadgets in general), but if you’re in the market for a powerhouse camera that does a lot without breaking the bank, the Pocket 4K is surely high on anyone’s short list of cameras to buy.
Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K: Still Formidable
Released in 2018, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K quickly earned a reputation for redefining what an affordable cinema camera could offer. Packed with professional-grade features like 4K DCI recording, a Micro Four Thirds (MFT) mount, and Blackmagic RAW support, it became the go-to choice for independent filmmakers, YouTubers, and content creators looking for premium quality without spending a fortune.
Cinematography enthusiasts and reviewers alike have consistently praised its cinematic image quality and flexibility. “The image is simply stunning,” wrote No Film School in its positive review, Many noted — not surprisingly given Blackmagic’s history in this regard — that it punches far above its price point. Despite its compact size, it delivers footage that rivals much more expensive cameras like those from RED and ARRI.
Sensor: Four Thirds, but more than capable
At the heart of the Pocket 4K is a 4/3 HDR sensor with dual native ISO of up to 25,600, giving it decent low-light performance (perfectionists may need to still tweak in post to remove noise). It supports resolutions up to 4096 x 2160 in DCI 4K, which is still enough for most applications and projects, despite the 6K drumbeat we’re seeing most recently.
For those who enjoy the look of vintage-style filmmaking, the camera also includes a Super 16mm crop mode, allowing users to pair the Pocket 4K with older, classic lenses. Whether shooting in 4K, 2.6K, or 1080p, the Pocket 4K gives you flexibility, enabling both narrative filmmaking and run-and-gun-style shooting. One thing to watch out for: there’s no in camera image stabilization.
Versatility makes the Pocket 4K equally at home on a high-budget film set or a scrappy independent project, ensuring its continued relevance in an ever-evolving industry.
Key Specs: Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K
Here’s a quick look at the standout specs of the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 4/3 HDR with dual native ISO (up to 25,600) |
| Max Resolution | 4096 x 2160 (DCI 4K) |
| Recording Formats | Blackmagic RAW, ProRes |
| Frame Rates | Up to 60 fps in 4K, 120 fps in HD |
| Screen | 5-inch touchscreen display |
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds (MFT) |
| Price | $995 USD (as of 2024) |
Verdict: The Pocket 4K Is Impossible to Ignore
As someone who has spent time behind the lens with Blackmagic cameras (the OG and micro back in the day), I can confidently say that this price drop makes the Pocket 4K more appealing than ever. Its robust build quality, intuitive menu system, and incredible value make it an ideal starting point for filmmakers and students diving into the world of cinematography.
One of the standout features of owning a Blackmagic camera is the inclusion of DaVinci Resolve Studio, an industry-standard post-production suite. Whether you’re editing, color grading, or mastering, Resolve gives you the tools to elevate your footage to a professional level.
In an age where filmmaking tools are more accessible than ever, the Pocket 4K remains a compelling option. For many, consider it a fantastic “gateway” camera that gives you hands-on experience with RAW workflows, dynamic range, and professional-grade features without needing a Hollywood-sized budget.
For $995, this isn’t just a camera — this is possibly an appealing opportunity to explore your creativity, hone your craft, and produce stunning cinematic work. The competition may have moved on with higher resolutions and AI-driven features, but the Pocket 4K reminds us that sometimes, all you need is a camera that just gets the job done, beautifully and reliably. And, again, cameras are simply tools. Everything else is more important: lighting, acting, location, art and sound design, storytelling, etc.
So, will this price cut inspire a new generation of filmmakers? Time will tell, but for now, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K and family is impossible to ignore.
