Blackmagic’s PYXIS lineup of video cameras now has a new big brother. Just announced at the NAB 2025 show in Las Vegas, Nevada, is the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K. This new camera boasts some impressive specs and customization options to make this the perfect camera for any professional videographer, including a 12K sensor with 16 stops of dynamic range and a lightweight yet strong aluminum body. Two new accessories for run-and-gun broadcast-style shooters have also been included in this announcement. In this article, we’ll be reviewing the best new features of the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K, as well as the two new accessories.
Key Features of the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K
- 12K RGBW Sensor
- 12K/40fps, 4K/112fps
- Available in EF, PL, or L-Mount
- 16 Stops of Dynamic Range
- Dual CFexpress Media Recorders
- 10G Ethernet
- Global Media Sync via Blackmagic Cloud
- Multiple Mounting Points and Accessory Side Plates
- 4” HDR Built-In Touchscreen
What’s New About the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K?
Blackmagic’s new PYXIS 12K video camera has powerful features that’ll satisfy even the most demanding of creators. First, a 12K sensor keeps the camera future-proof and gives videographers the ability to downsample or crop their footage to capture the perfect frame. 16 stops of dynamic range give users the ability to maintain the highlights without crushing the shadows, even when the light gets harsh. An aluminum body is both strong and versatile, with many mounting points and accessory side plates that perfectly complement a brand-new PYXIS Pro Handle and Pro Grip. Let’s have a closer look at some of the key specs.
12K RGBW Sensor
The PYXIS comes equipped with a revolutionary 12K RGBW sensor, which is the same as the sensor seen in the popular URSA Cine 12K LF. This amazing and highly versatile sensor is capable of shooting in all standard resolutions and frame rates from HD up to 12K. The multi-scale sensor lets users shoot in 12K, 8K, or 4K at the full sensor size. At 12K, users can capture 40fps, while 4K shooters will harness up to 112fps. For those needing to capture a specific aspect ratio, you can easily switch between numerous options to capture the perfect footage in the field.
16 Stops Dynamic Range
When you need to capture scenes with high dynamic range, the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K has you covered. With an astounding 16 stops of dynamic range, creators can easily maintain the highlights detail in their videos without crushing the shadows. This is perfect for creators who aim to capture video outdoors or anywhere where it isn’t possible to set up studio lighting to illuminate the whole scene. More dynamic range means highly high-quality footage with better sharpness and less noise in tough lighting conditions, a must for pro-level videographers.
Highly Customizable Body
A 4” HDR built-in touchscreen monitor gives users full control over the Blackmagic PYXIS. The full HD resolution of this screen means that videographers can frame and focus their images without the need for an external monitor. The compact body of the PYXIS is made from CNC machines aerospace aluminum for a lightweight feel that doesn’t sacrifice strength. The camera can easily be mounted on camera rigs such as cranes, gimbals, or even drones. There are numerous accessory side plates and mounting points to attach the necessary accessories to simplify your workflow, including two brand-new Blackmagic accessories.
Two New Accessories
Alongside the new camera, Blackmagic has announced the PYXIS Pro Handle and Pro Grip. Basically, these two accessories help the PYXIS camera become the ultimate run-and-gun camera for broadcasts and documentaries. The Pro Handle uses an integrated HD OLED viewfinder with a stereo microphone and buttons to start/stop recording. Additionally, there are some customizable function buttons. The Pro Grip is a side grip that aims to increase comfort over long days of shooting. A zoom rocker and hand strap are included for ease of use and comfort. When paired together, these accessories make it much easier to capture perfect footage on the go. Both of these accessories will be available in July 2025.
Who Should Buy The Blackmagic PYXIS 12K?
The Blackmagic PYXIS 12K is an excellent camera for a professional videographer who demands superior resolution and dynamic range for their footage. 12K footage is future-proof, meaning that any footage you capture now will still be plenty relevant for years to come. All users will love the numerous mounting points for accessories. These allow you to make the camera perfectly suited for a variety of different uses. For those looking to capture documentary or broadcast-style footage, the new Pro Handle and Pro Grip are perfect for turning the Blackmagic PYXIS 12K into the ultimate broadcasting run and gun camera.
Comparable Blackmagic Cameras
Those looking for a high-quality video camera on a tighter budget shouldn’t overlook the Blackmagic PYXIS 6K Camera. This camera boasts many of the same features as the PYXIS 12K but only offers 6K footage and 13 stops of dynamic range. Still, for many creators, this is more than enough, and the smaller body can be easier to work with for those shooting over long days. This camera comes in EF, PL, or L-Mount and is also equipped with many mounting points so creators can fully customize their camera body to best suit their needs.
Final Thoughts
This year, Blackmagic has brought to market tons of new exciting products for the video community at the NAB 2025 show. The latest upgrade in the Blackmagic PYXIS lineup is certainly exciting for videographers of all kinds. Blackmagic continues to push boundaries when it comes to what’s possible in video technology, and this camera is no different. No matter what kind of video you shoot, the new Blackmagic PYXIS 12K is a highly customizable camera that should be on your radar when it comes to creating top-notch video productions.
