Compact fixed-lens cameras are becoming more popular, while interchangeable-lens cameras are starting to lose their popularity
BCN Ranking is making the case that compact fixed-lens cameras are becoming more popular, while interchangeable-lens cameras are starting to lose their popularity:
"Interchangeable lens cameras are starting to run out of steam. Sales have been declining year-on-year since last summer. Interchangeable lens cameras account for more than 60% of the market in terms of sales value.
Meanwhile, compact cameras are growing. Since last November, sales have been increasing by double digits year-on-year. As of February, compact cameras accounted for 71.0% of sales in terms of unit sales and 37.8% in terms of sales value. They are still the mainstream camera in terms of unit sales. There is a strong demand for cameras that are cheap, small, light, and can take photos with decent image quality, rather than expensive, large, and heavy interchangeable lens cameras. However, manufacturers have decided that compact cameras cannot compete with smartphones, whose camera functions have evolved significantly. They have thrown in the white flag and drastically narrowed down their compact product lineup."
BCN+R Camera Market Report (March 23, 2025)
Decline in Interchangeable Lens Cameras:
- Sales have been decreasing since summer 2024.
- High prices and inflation have dampened consumer demand.
- Post-pandemic surge in camera purchases has faded.
Resurgence of Compact Cameras:
- Sales have been increasing since November 2024, with double-digit growth continuing into February 2025.
- Compact cameras accounted for 71.0% of unit sales and 37.8% of market value in February.
- Consumers prefer affordable, lightweight options with good image quality.
Market Trends & Key Players:
- Kodak – Led in unit sales (over 20% share), driven by the PIXPRO FZ55 (~20,000 yen).
- Canon – Held the top market share from July to December 2024, fueled by the 2016 IXY 650.
- Fujifilm – Climbed to second place in February, thanks to the instax mini Evo (instant film).
- Kenko Tokina – Gained traction with budget models like the KC-03TY (<10,000 yen).
- Panasonic – Improved market ranking with the new LUMIX TZ99 (launched in February).
Notable Product Announcements (CP+2025 Exhibition):
- Canon PowerShot V1 – Vlogging-focused, launching in April 2025.
- Nikon COOLPIX P1100 – Features 125x optical zoom (24mm–3000mm), released in February.
Read the full article here.
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