The Rise of the Premium Fixed-lens Camera

Since 2018, we have witnessed a significant shift from DSLR to mirrorless cameras—and also a burgeoning interest in premium, fixed-lens cameras. These compact cameras, led by brands such as Fujifilm, Sony and Leica have seen a notable rise in popularity over the past year. 

In 2023, fixed-lens cameras accounted for 15% of the total value—and 13% of the volume—of camera bodies traded on the used market. The average value of these cameras now rivals their mirrorless interchangeable-lens counterparts, with €577 vs €561. The most popular fixed-lens cameras in 2023 were the Fujifilm X100V, Fujifilm X100F, Leica Q2, Canon Powershot G7 X II, and Ricoh GR III.

The appeal of fixed-lens cameras is widespread among photographers, in particular street and travel photographers, who cherish premium compact cameras’ unique blend of high-quality imaging and convenience. The simplicity of using a single, integrated lens—without the need to swap glass on the move—can be a significant advantage for photographers, especially while working in dynamic shooting environments.

Adding to this landscape, rangefinder cameras—such as the Leica M10 Silver and Leica M Monochrom—have also made a noticeable impression, contributing 4% to the value of the used camera market. Professional photographers and enthusiasts value rangefinders cameras for their precision and vintage appeal.

Moreover, current market analytics—including CIPA data—indicate that fixed-lens cameras increasingly lean towards the premium segment. The shift towards premium fixed-lens cameras is likely a response to the diminishing demand for low-cost compact cameras, which have largely fallen out of favour due to the advancements in smartphone camera technology. The premium compact category is experiencing a renaissance, driven by the likes of the Sony RX and ZV series, Ricoh GR, and the Panasonic TZ (travel zooms), FZ (superzoom) and LX (premium compact) ranges, showing promising year-over-year growth in global value.

As compact cameras take on more features including much improved video quality and in-body image stabilisation, premium fixed-lens cameras are carving out a substantial niche.

MPB Re.Value is the world’s leading proprietary dynamic pricing engine of real-time prices for more than ten thousand used cameras, lenses and accessories and contains more than a decade of data covering millions of data points. 

As the world’s greatest source of market data and insights on used photo and video gear, we use data from MPB Re.Value to reveal industry trends and show changes in the price and popularity of camera brands, categories and classes over time.

Furthermore, an exclusive focus on used photo and video gear ensures our total independence, which allows us to present unbiased updates about the state of the market today and share data that journalists and readers can trust implicitly.

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