The RED Epic-X Dragon is a professional cinema camera built around the 6K RED Dragon CMOS sensor, delivering 6144 x 3160 resolution across a Super 35 format with over 16.5 stops of dynamic range and RED Mini-Mag media storage.
Key Specifications
- Sensor: RED Dragon 19.4 megapixel CMOS
- Maximum Resolution: 6144 x 3160 (6K)
- Sensor Format: Super 35 (30.7 mm x 15.8 mm, diagonal 34.5 mm)
- Dynamic Range: 16.5+ stops
- Storage Media: RED Mini-Mag (up to 200 MB/s)
- Camera Type: Digital Cinema (DSMC1 platform)
What makes the RED Epic-X Dragon special?
The RED Epic-X Dragon is the production-run version of the Epic platform — manufactured at scale with standard components, compared to the hand-assembled Epic-M variant. It uses the same Dragon sensor that delivers 6K resolution and 16.5+ stops of dynamic range, representing a significant step forward from older Mysterium-X bodies in terms of dynamic range, color science, and high-ISO performance.
The Dragon sensor provides cleaner high-ISO performance and richer color science than its predecessors, with substantially expanded dynamic range for challenging lighting situations like wedding receptions or mixed-light film sets. This makes it suitable for narrative film work, documentary, and high-end event cinematography.
Against modern compact cinema cameras like the RED Komodo or DSMC2 bodies such as the RED GEMINI 5K or RED MONSTRO 8K VV, the Epic-X Dragon shows its age in ergonomics — there is no internal ND filter system, no autofocus, and the body is larger than modern compact cinema cameras. However, the image quality from the Dragon sensor remains competitive for narrative work and high-end production. If your workflow is built around RED's color science and you need serious resolution without DSMC2 pricing, the Epic-X Dragon is a strong option in the used market.
Who is the RED Epic-X Dragon for?
The Epic-X Dragon is a camera for filmmakers who need cinema-grade resolution and dynamic range and are comfortable operating in a professional RED workflow. Without autofocus or internal NDs, it requires a controlled shooting environment or a dedicated camera assistant for manual focus and exposure work.
