Honestly, go with SmallRig because it's such a steal for the quality! I've used their gear for years and it never lets me down. You definitely dont need to blow your whole budget on Tilta just for the aesthetics.

• SmallRig Black Mamba Camera Cage for Sony FX30 FX3
• SmallRig Universal Wood Side Handle 2093C It fits the body perfectly and leaves you cash for extra batteries! Love how lightweight it stays!

^ This. Also, be careful with going too cheap when you're hanging heavy glass off the front. I remember a gig last year where my rig basically started twisting because the cage didn't have enough contact points to handle the torque. Honestly, I'd suggest looking at the Nitze Sony FX3 FX30 Camera Cage T-S03A instead of the mamba. It's got better mounting tolerances and feels way more secure for a lot less than the Tilta. You might also want to consider the 8Sinn Sony FX3 FX30 Cage if you want something that won't flex under pressure. Make sure to check the thread depth on your accessories too... I've seen some cages strip out because the screws were too long for the shallow holes. I'd rather spend the extra bit on a cage that doesn't wiggle than buy a fancy side grip right now. Stability is everything when you're running and gunning.

@Reply #1 - good point! honestly ive built dozens of rigs over the years and the Tilta Full Camera Cage for Sony FX3/FX30 V2 Black is worth it for long days. it fits like a glove compared to cheaper options that eventually wiggle...

• Tilta: has a built-in arca plate for fast gimbal swaps.
• SmallRig Side Handle with Wireless Control for Sony: lets you trigger recording from your grip. cined has some killer technical rig breakdowns too.

Saving this whole thread. So much good info here you guys are awesome.