It has been a while since The Phoblographer reported about camera sales. However, we are back today with the March rankings because it is quite surprising. In the past two months, we have seen the launch of the Nikon Z50 II, Fujifilm GFX100 RF, Canon Powershot V1, and Fujifilm Instax Mini 41, amongst others. From what we can see, the camera that topped the list proves that smaller sensor cameras are on the win. But can you guess what the best-selling camera is?
According to MAP Times (via DigiCame-Info), the winners showcased OM System’s OM3, which topped the best-selling camera list. While the report only reveals the trend in Japan (as it was collated using the data gathered from various stories across the countries), it is really curious to see a device that was launched on March 1 instantly hit the top list. Here are the other winners:
- OM SYSTEM OM-3
- Nikon Z50 II
- RicohGR IIIx
- Canon EOS R5 Mark II
- Ricoh GR III
- Sony a7C II
- Panasonic LUMIX S1R II
- Nikon Z f
- Fujifilm X-M5
- Fujifilm X-T50
From the looks of it, there are four full-frame cameras: Canon R5 II, Nikon Zf, Sony a7C II, and LUMIX S1R II. The rest are APS-C models, with OM3 being the only Four Thirds camera in the list. According to the report, here are a few reasons why the OM3 became such a huge hit:
- Design: The OM3 features an SLR body, which has its own appeal amongst young photographers. There were various dials and a distinct SLR feel, which drew photographers to the digital SLR.
- Features: The OM System OM3 features multiple color profiles and presets, which allows photographers to make their images different. In addition, computation photography, which is missing from Fujifilm, is another why many were excited about its return. Furthermore, its JPEG quality is perfect, right out of the camera, so you do not need to process it separately later.
- OM System Appeal: Photographers have been waiting for a new Pen F variant for so long, but since that hasn’t happened, they jump to the next best option.
In addition, APS-C cameras, such as Fujifilm, Nikon, and Ricoh are also surprising additions to the list. Ricoh models were announced in 2019 and 2021, but seeing them again here proves that compact cameras are still popular among younger photographers. However, another thing we observe is that users also prefer interchangeable cameras often over compact cameras. This showcases OM3’s popularity.
However, we are surprised Canon Powershot did not make it to the list, instead the R5 II, which is not exactly the best successor to the R5, came in fourth. Buying patterns are also based on various factors such as rebates, income changes, inflation, and so on. So, it is safe to say that smaller sensors are still preferred by most, as it is by far the most cost-effective and have a plethora of features for most amateur and serious enthusiasts.
We are still waiting to hear about the OM System Pen F. If OM3 can be such a huge success in 15 days, we believe the Pen F will repeat the same success in the future, too.
