🎥 ARRI ALEXA 35 Xtreme: A New Benchmark in High-Speed Cinematography

ARRI has unveiled the ALEXA 35 Xtreme, an advanced iteration of the acclaimed ALEXA 35, engineered to redefine high-speed filmmaking 🎬 with frame rates up to 660 fps, a new ARRICORE codec, and enhanced pre-recording capabilities. Announced on July 31, 2025, this Super 35 digital cinema camera builds on ARRI’s legacy of industry-leading image quality, now with unprecedented versatility for productions requiring extreme slow motion and streamlined workflows.

📊 Technical Specifications

🧠 Sensor and Image Quality

• Sensor: ALEV 4 Super 35 (27.99 x 19.22 mm)
• Resolution:
  • 4.6K 3:2 Open Gate: 4608 x 3164
  • 3K 1:1: 3072 x 3072, and more
• Dynamic Range:
  • 🌟 Up to 17 stops (standard mode)
  • ⚡ 11 stops in Sensor Overdrive mode
• Sensitivity: EI 160–6400; native ISO 1600 in Overdrive
• Color Science: REVEAL Color Science, AWG4 + LogC4
• ARRI Textures: 🎨 Emulate digital film stock for mood & tone

🎞️ Frame Rates

• Standard: Up to 120 fps in ARRIRAW, 75 fps in Open Gate
• Sensor Overdrive Mode: 🚀 Up to 660 fps
• Pre-Recording: ⏱️ 30s (ARRIRAW), 5 min (ProRes)

💾 Recording & Media

• Codecs:
  • 🔵 ARRIRAW: Maximum quality
  • 🟣 ARRICORE: Efficient RGB codec, post-adjustable
  • 🟢 Apple ProRes: 422 HQ, 4444, 4444 XQ
• Media: Codex Compact Drives (1TB/2TB/Express)
• HDE Compression: 40% ARRIRAW file size reduction

🎚️ Exposure & Filters

• Shutter: Rolling (1°–356°), halved in Overdrive ⚡
• ND Filters: FSND – Clear, ND 0.6, 1.2, 1.8 🕶️

📡 Connectivity & Control

• Wireless: Dual radios 📶 with mesh roaming (5 GHz WiFi)
• Interfaces: LBUS, SERIAL, USB-C, TC, ETH, SYNC IN, RET IN
• Control: MVF-2 Viewfinder, Camera Companion App, Web UI 🌐
• Audio: 2x scratch mics, 4x line inputs 🎧

🔄 Lens Mounts

• LPL, PL (adapter or native), EF, Leitz M 🔩
• Flange Depth: LPL – 44 mm; PL – 52 mm

⚙️ Physical & Power

• Weight: ~2.9 kg 🏋️
• Size: 147 x 152.5 x 203 mm
• Operating Temp: -20°C to +45°C ❄️🔥
• Efficiency: ⚡ Uses 10% less power than ALEXA 35

🧠 Smart Features

• AI Accelerator: Built-in chip for future smart tools 🤖
• Accessory Compatibility: Fully compatible with ALEXA 35 gear
• Camera Kits: 🎒 Entry, Operator, Production & Premium Sets
• Upgrade Option: ALEXA 35 → Xtreme for €15,900 🔧

🔍 What is Sensor Overdrive?

Sensor Overdrive is ARRI’s groundbreaking technology that allows the ALEXA 35 Xtreme to reach up to 660 fps 🚀 by pushing the ALEV 4 sensor beyond conventional limits.

In this mode:

• 🌈 Dynamic range is reduced to 11 stops
• 🔆 ISO is fixed at 1600
• 🔄 Shutter angle is halved, ideal for LED wall usage
• 🎯 Perfect for action, sports, or experimental slow-mo
• 🎥 Maintains ARRI-level image quality even at high speeds

🌟 Key Features & Benefits

✅ Up to 330 fps with full 17-stop DR – no need for Phantom
✅ Sensor Overdrive mode delivers breathtaking 660 fps
✅ ARRICORE codec = quality + efficiency + flexibility
✅ Pre-recording up to 5 mins – great for unpredictable action 🎯
✅ Optimized 10% lower power draw – longer on-set time 🔋
✅ Robust 5 GHz WiFi with mesh support 🌐
✅ Seamless integration with existing ALEXA 35 accessories
✅ Multiple lens mount options for creative freedom

💰 Price: $54,590 (base model)
🔧 Upgrade existing ALEXA 35: €15,900

🏁 Conclusion

The ARRI ALEXA 35 Xtreme redefines high-speed cinematography 🎥⚡ with a powerful blend of top-tier image quality, groundbreaking frame rates, and next-gen workflow tools.

From capturing fleeting expressions to explosive action, this camera meets the demands of today’s most innovative filmmakers 🎬 and sets a bold new benchmark for the future of digital cinema.

Drafted by

CJ Rajkumar

Author/ Cinematographer