Freefly Systems Ember S2.5K Camera Shoots Up To 2277fps – First Look at NAB

by Alexandra ThompsonApril 23^rd, 2024

This year at NAB 2024, we met with Ansel from Freefly Systems who introduced the Ember S2.5K camera, designed especially for scientific imaging and slow-motion capture. Although the camera has half the resolution of the Ember S5K, it also shoots at far more frames per second – 2277fps in full resolution.

The Ember S5K camera was introduced back in 2022, and we took a closer look at it during Cine Gear 2023. The focus group for the Ember S5K is film, documentary, sports, etc. The S2.5K has another much tighter focus group: filling a gap in the industry where extreme slow motion takes priority over resolution – think scientific – sports analysis, vibration analysis, for example, where resolution isn’t as important.

Differences in the S2.5K and the S5K

Ansel highlighted that the S5K remains Freefly’s primary camera in the Ember line. However, when looking at who the S2.5K is aimed at, it’s clear that the camera puts frame rates front and center as its main feature given its sensor size of 2560 x 2048 (5.2MP) compared to the S5K’s 5120 x 4096 (21MP) and the 2277fps (at maximum resolution) compared to the S5K’s 616fps. Additionally, the S2.5K includes a pre-record feature (optional on the S5K), and an active EF-compatible lens mount is included in the box.

Accessories and what the future holds

In response to customer requests for SDI support, the company is exploring the possibility of including it in future product updates. Other announcements include a new Cheese Plate that adapts to wooden cameras as well as a major update to their app. Ansel said that all updates, accessories, etc. are made to cover the entire Ember line – what’s good with one is good with the other.

Price and availability

The camera doesn’t come cheap – the price is $25,000/€23,830.78 (in comparison with the S5K currently at $18,000/16,299 Euro. That said, there’s nothing else like it on the market, and for specific uses, it could become an indispensable camera in a few, specialized sectors. Have a look at their website for more information.

What do you think of a camera with this kind of frame rate? Do you see any creative possibilities coming to mind for your own projects? Let us know in the comments!