Arri Alexa Classic EV

ARRI ALEXA Classic EV

The First Game-Changer

This old-school ALEXA made film folks finally say yes to digital. It was the first camera to win over die-hard film lovers.

Camera Bits

Part What It Has
Sensor Super 35mm CMOS (8.9MP)
Size 2K (2048 × 1152)
Speed Up to 60 fps
Files Apple ProRes
Mount PL
Focus Hand-focus only
Viewfinder Built-in Electronic (EV)

Why It’s Still Great

LOOKS LIKE REAL FILM

First digital box that felt like you shot on actual movie film

TOUGH AS NAILS

Keeps on working when other fancy cameras break down

GOES ANYWHERE

Works excellent held in your hands, on a tripod, or your shoulder

WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET

The viewfinder shows the authentic look of your shot, no surprises

Who Still Uses It

Even with newer, sharper cameras, many film folks still grab this old timer. You’ll see it on dark mood pieces, art house films, and sets where the grainy, raw feel beats super-sharp edges. Lots of big-name directors won’t use anything else. They say this old box has a magic that new ones can’t copy.

The Last Word

The Classic EV may not have all the bells of newer rigs, but it has a heart and soul that many miss in today’s gear. While the world chases more pixels, this camera stands for the feel of the shot, not just how crisp it is. It’s not the new kid on the block, but the original king still proudly wears its crown for an authentic film look.

© 2025 ARRI ALEXA Classic EV Guide • Last Updated: March 2025

Information compiled from official specifications and industry resources