For years, Micro Four Thirds cameras have been fighting an uphill battle against larger full-frame and APS-C sensors, particularly when it comes to dynamic range and low-light performance. But what if the next big leap in image quality has nothing to do with increasing sensor size?

According to a fascinating new rumor, the future of Micro Four Thirds could be about to get considerably brighter, with an entirely new generation of sensors reportedly being developed using LOFIC technology. If the claims prove accurate, we could see Four Thirds sensors capable of delivering more than 17 stops of dynamic range, potentially transforming what photographers and filmmakers can achieve with smaller cameras.

The technology in question is known as LOFIC, short for Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor, and it could represent one of the most significant developments in digital sensor technology in years. Unlike conventional sensors, which can struggle to retain information in extremely bright areas of an image, Lofic uses additional capacitors to capture excess electrical charge that would otherwise be lost when a pixel reaches its capacity.

In simple terms, this means a sensor can preserve considerably more highlight detail without sacrificing the information captured in darker areas. For photographers, that could mean greater flexibility when editing RAW files, while filmmakers could benefit from an enormous increase in exposure latitude when recording challenging, high-contrast scenes.

According to 43 Rumors, information originating from a Chinese source suggests that new Four Thirds sensors incorporating this technology could arrive between 2027 and 2028. The source claims, "New domestic M43 sensors featuring LOFIC technology are on the horizon, promising even greater dynamic range and faster readout speeds compared to their predecessors."

More interestingly, the rumored sensors could combine dual conversion gain technology with LOFIC to achieve 14-bit sampling at 60fps, more than 17 stops of dynamic range, and a claimed exposure recovery range extending from +9 to -4 EV. The report also suggests the next generation could be based on a larger Four Thirds-format version of OmniVision's OV50X sensor, although none of these developments or performance figures have been officially confirmed.

What makes this rumor particularly exciting is that Lofic isn't simply theoretical technology waiting to be proven. We have already seen what it can achieve in the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P, which features a 1-inch sensor incorporating the technology. Independent testing by CineD measured an astonishing 16 stops of dynamic range at a signal-to-noise ratio of 2, increasing to 17.2 stops at a ratio of 1.

Those are remarkable figures from such a small sensor, and they demonstrate why this technology is attracting so much attention. If similar performance could be achieved in a larger Four Thirds sensor, it could fundamentally change expectations of what compact camera systems are capable of, particularly for photographers who want exceptional image quality without the size and weight associated with larger formats.

Of course, there is still a considerable difference between a promising sensor rumor and seeing that technology inside the next OM System or Panasonic Lumix camera. The suggestion is that DJI products could receive these sensors first, with no guarantee that traditional Micro Four Thirds manufacturers would have access to them.

Nevertheless, I find the possibilities incredibly exciting. Micro Four Thirds has always offered a compelling balance of portability, lens reach, and performance, but imagine combining those advantages with dynamic range that could rival, or potentially surpass, what we currently expect from much larger sensors. Sensor size will still influence noise, depth of field, and overall image quality, but Lofic could help remove one of the format's most persistent disadvantages.

If these rumors become reality, perhaps the future of Micro Four Thirds isn't about trying to compete with full-frame cameras by becoming something bigger, but by proving just how much more a smaller sensor can achieve.

Check out the best Micro Four Thirds cameras you can buy today

I must confess to not originally being aware of the film-era Olympus Pen, launched way back in 1959. At least not until the digital version, 2009’s Olympus PEN E-P1, landed a cool 50 years later, complete with a press trip to a cinema in Berlin, where the usherettes were dressed in 1960s garb.

Nevertheless, the retro styling of the PEN E-P1 had the effect of making me feel nostalgic for something I’d never experienced. Which is a neat trick to pull off, in terms of marketing.

I’ve owned one of the digital PEN’s compact mirrorless successors, the E-PL7, for a decade now and it’s the camera I return to the most, for a very simple reason: its balance of portability and quality hits the sweet spot for me.

I don’t need a full-frame sensor or anything bigger than what the Micro Four Thirds system offers as my photographs are used almost exclusively online these days and I’m never asked for prints, let alone billboard sized ones.

When Olympus’s former camera division became the newly formed OM Digital Solutions shortly after the Covid pandemic, it seemed, briefly, that the PEN range had been put out to pasture. So, I was pleased to see it resurrected and hopefully re-invigorated as, simply, the OM System PEN. It wasn’t the PEN F Mark II continuation some were expecting, but a case of dialling it right back to the beginning again, like rebooting a movie franchise.

Resembling a modern classic from the get-go, the 2026 PEN more expectedly features various under-the-bonnet tweaks to bring it in line with more recent OM System releases, including a Computational Photography button plus, this time around, phase detection auto focus with 121 AF points.

OK, if I’m being picky, I would have preferred a metal chassis to the plastic / polycarbonate body we’ve been given, but then that would have impacted both lightweight build and price. While I approve of its weather-sealed construction, I also like the fact that, in the age of the influencer, its maker has kept this very much a ‘photography first’ camera. In an age where competitors have sought to primarily seduce videographers as the most ‘sticky’ form of content creation, that almost feels like a rebellious stance.

Now all I need to work out is how I can blag one from the former Olympus to update my ageing E-PL7 workhorse.

OM System’s most affordable stabilized, weather-sealed compact mirrorless camera is so popular in Japan that its launch date has now been pushed back a full month – and that's just for customers who placed pre-orders on the first day.

OM System Japan issued an apology stating that the demand for the PEN has been so high that the first pre-orders will now start shipping in the region on November 28, nearly a full month after the camera was originally expected to roll out.

That’s not the first time that OM System Japan has apologized for delays, but while earlier announcements suggested a “November or later” delay, OM System Japan has now shared a new release date for the camera in the region on November 28.

Postponing the official launch date will allow everyone who ordered before September 10 to get their camera on the launch date. The camera was announced on September 09, so the pre-orders from the very first day have been delayed by a full month.

The announcement doesn’t indicate when later pre-orders will begin shipping.

The OM System PEN has a staggered rollout scheduled for different regions. The camera is already shipping in the US on schedule for the promised “late October” rollout. In Europe, the camera was expected to begin shipping in late September, but several photo retailers still have the camera listed as a pre-order.

Those delays hint at how popular OM System’s latest camera is. The PEN has long been a popular line for the company, mixing a retro style with simple controls.

But the OM System PEN may be drawing more than just the photographers who have been waiting for an update to the beloved series. The mirrorless camera uses a compact retro design that OM System says is built for everyday carry. The PEN also feels like a compact camera alternative to pricey fixed-lens cameras like the Panasonic Lumix L10 and Fujifilm X100VI.

Priced at $999 / £849 / AU$1,499, the PEN is one of the cheapest mirrorless cameras that has both stabilization and weather-sealing. The IPX1 rating isn’t as robust as higher-end models, but finding both stabilization and a bit of rain resistance on a mirrorless is difficult to do at this price point.

The PEN’s popularity is likely more widespread than in Japan. All four variants of the PEN – the two colorways, with and without a kit lens – sit among US retailer B&H’s top trending cameras for September, hinting at a healthy number of pre-orders.

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Take a look at the best Micro Four Thirds cameras or the best retro cameras. Or, read the full OM System PEN review.

The retro compact camera trend has driven up demand for pocketable cameras – but one camera in particular has increased in value fivefold over just the last three years. The Canon PowerShot G9, a 2007 advanced compact camera with manual modes and a 6x zoom lens, has seen the biggest surge in demand – and price increase – in the last three years, according to used camera retailer MPB.

Part of the PowerShot G9’s allure is its advanced tools inside a pocketable design. The G9 uses a 12.1MP, 1/1.7-inch sensor inside a camera that weighs 320g / 11.3 oz. But the G9 is geared towards more serious photographers, with full manual modes, a viewfinder, a hot shoe slot, a metal body, and even a built-in neutral density filter.

Now nearly 20 years old, the camera’s age shows most perhaps in its burst speed, which reaches just 1.5fps, and its video resolution, which tops out at 480p.

Three years ago, photographers could sell a G9 to MPB for up to $45. In 2026, that’s jumped up to as much as $225 (about £34-£168, AU$65-323, CA$63-318).

The PowerShot G9 leads MPB’s list of cameras that saw the biggest price increases for used models in the US – but the G9 isn’t alone in rising in demand. Four Canon PowerShots sit among the top ten.

The top ten in-demand model that fetches the highest price is the Canon PowerShot G7 X II, the predecessor to the viral Mark III. MPB says the G7 X Mark II can sell for up to $880 (about £659 / AU$1,265 / CA$1,244), more than twice its worth three years ago.

The PowerShot G12 sits just behind the G9 in second place, a 2010 model with the same size sensor but a 10MP resolution, 5x zoom, and an articulating screen that now fetches up to $535 from MPB (about £400 / AU$769 / CA$757). Its slightly older 2009 sibling, the PowerShot G11, also makes the list. The only DSLR on the list is the Canon EOS Rebel T2i.

The only compact camera on the top ten that’s not a PowerShot is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5, a 2010 camera with a 10.1MP 1/1.63-inch CCD sensor. Like the G9, the LX5 also has manual modes, a hot shoe slot, and a metal build, but it shoots video at up to 720p and uses a 3.8x optical zoom lens with an f/2.0-3.3 aperture.

Four of the cameras on that top ten list from MPB are mirrorless cameras. Two of those are from the Olympus Pen series: the Olympus Pen E-PM2 from 2012 and the Pen E-P1 from 2009. Both of those Pen cameras are known for their very compact form factor, still fitting in a Micro Four Thirds sensor.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3, another compact Micro Four Thirds body from 2011, also sits on that top ten list, along with the APS-C Sony Alpha NEX-3N from 2013.

In a recent report, MPB shared that it is now recirculating 615,000 cameras, lenses, and accessories a year, which is up by nine percent from a year ago. Along with putting secondhand cameras into the hands of photographers, the company also recently reached its 100% renewable electricity usage goal.

Those who have found one of those high-demand cameras to sell – or who have other camera gear to sell – can get a free quote from MPB.com.

MPB's top 10 cameras with the biggest price increase in the US

1. Canon PowerShot G9
2. Canon PowerShot G12
3. Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5
4. Canon PowerShot G11
5. Olympus Pen E-PM2
6. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3
7. Olympus PEN E-P1
8. Sony Alpha NEX-3N
9. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
10. Canon EOS Rebel T2i

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Browse the best compact cameras or the best retro cameras.

Looking for a rugged, waterproof, and adventure-ready compact camera for your next hike, dive, ski, or biking excursion? Two great budget outdoor cameras are now available at a discount on Amazon.

The Ricoh Pentax WG-8 in green is now just £429 on Amazon – you save £50.99 off its original £479.99 price.

The OM System Tough TG-7 in red is now just £391.24 on Amazon – you save £108.75 off its RRP of £499.99.

• The Ricoh Pentax WG-8 in black was £479.99, now £443.99 on Amazon

• The OM System Tough TG-7 in black was £499.99, now £379.99 on Amazon

Ricoh Pentax WG-8

A real Captain Scarlet of a compact camera

The Pentax WG-8 is built tough to survive water, dust, drops, freezing temps – you name it. It's perfect if you want a camera that's truly adventure-proof, without spending big. With a 20MP sensor and 5x optical zoom (approx. 28-140mm in 35mm terms).

It shoots decent photos and 4k video at 30fps. It also shines in ultra-close-up shots, and it performs well underwater and in extreme conditions where other cameras might fail. It's a solid budget-friendly choice for anyone needing a tough, reliable camera for travel.

OM System Tough TG-7

Indestructible camera, impressive results

The OM System Tough TG-7 is built to be a companion on any adventure. It's waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof, so you never have to worry about weather or terrain. Sure, its 12MP sensor is smaller than some other cameras, but that actually helps underwater photos by capturing more light where it's often dim. Plus, it shoots RAW and bursts up to 20fps – perfect for catching fast moments.

The TG-7 has a handy 4x zoom (approx. 25-100mm in 35mm terms) with a bright aperture and a standout macro mode that lets you snap amazing close-ups and 4K video. It's simple, durable, and versatile – the perfect point-and-shoot to toss in your bag when you need a reliable camera that won't quit.

Discover more and browse the best travel cameras, best compact cameras and best point and shoot cameras

When I first pulled the tiny retro Instax Pal 2 out of the box, my first thought was that the tiny 3 oz / 87g camera may just be the cutest camera that I’ve ever seen. My second thought? I predicted the little camera may go viral, and now a fresh bestseller list is proving just how popular the Pal 2 is.

US photo store B&H Photo Video recently shared its best-selling cameras for September 2026, and the list is led by the tiny Instax Pal 2, followed by the new OM System PEN, and Canon’s first take on a retro mirrorless, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II.

The Instax Pal 2 is so different from the original, bubble-shaped Pal that I’m surprised Instax didn’t give it a different name. But the Pal 2, like the original, is one of the few Instax cameras that doesn’t actually use instant film. Instead, the Pal 2 is a tiny retro digital camera that can print wirelessly to Instax printers but also functions as a standalone digital compact camera.

Besides being tiny, the Pal 2 is unusual in that it places the LCD screen at the top of the camera rather than the back, which feels a bit like having a waist-level viewfinder, though the camera still has a traditional optical viewfinder at the back. That, mixed with retro dials, gives the new tiny camera a retro feel.

A camera that retails for $169.95 / £144.99 / CA$219.95 / AU$249 is going to fit into more budgets than a mirrorless camera. But B&H’s monthly trends list offers the first hint at just how viral the Pal 2 has gone.

The OM System PEN is on the trends list four times!

The camera that takes up the most spots on the list, however, is the new OM System PEN. Four variations of the PEN take up spots on the trends list, led by the black color with a kit lens, then the silver with a kit lens, then each color as a body-only option.

While the Pal 2 felt like a surprise, the OM System PEN has been a long-awaited update to the company’s longstanding PEN series. The new PEN brings that long-loved retro design, but it’s also one of the few cameras at the price point that includes both image stabilization and weather-sealing.

The PEN brings the 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds sensor from other OM System cameras but puts it into a compact, retro-inspired camera body. That design includes a switch to swap between color modes at the front. A more traditional mode dial and arranging the top controls towards the grip also make the PEN possible to shoot one-handed.

Canon mirrorless cameras take three spots on the top trending list

The PEN is followed by Canon’s newest mirrorless: The EOS R8 Mark II. The second generation adds in-body stabilization to one of Canon’s most affordable full-frame cameras. (The older Canon EOS RP is still the most affordable full-frame Canon, while the original R8 is also sticking around as a budget option.)

The R8 Mark II strays from Canon’s usual rounded profile and uses a more angular design inspired by the film Canon T80 camera from the 1980s. So while the camera looks more retro than the original, it’s not the modern remake of the Canon AE-1 that many fans have been asking for.

The Canon EOS R8 Mark II is followed by two Canon cameras that are no strangers to best-seller lists: the full-frame, 32.5MP Canon EOS R6 Mark III and the 45MP, 8K EOS R5 Mark II.

What else is trending right now?

One more compact camera rounds out the top ten list: The Sony RX100 VII. The long-loved one-inch sensor compact is known for its 24-200mm equivalent zoom lens and pocketable design.

B&H also shared a list of the top trending cameras for a 24-hour period in mid-October, and while the Pal 2 leads that list as well, there are a few key changes from September’s list. The Sony A7R VI makes that list with its mix of resolution and speed.

Two “screen-free” compact cameras have also risen up in recent trends. The Fujifilm X Half (which has a screen, but also offers a screen-free mode) has risen up the ranks, likely driven by a lowest-ever price in the US of $449. The retro-compact camera is built to mix a more analog shooting experience with a one-inch sensor and Fujifilm’s film simulations.

The Camp Snap 2 also made the short-term list, with the semi-transparent pink being the B&H favorite.

Two high-end compact cameras, the Ricoh GR IV and the Panasonic Lumix L10, also made the 24-hour trends list, along with the Canon EOS R7 with a 18-150mm kit lens and the budget point-and-shoot Kodak PixPro FZ55.

B&H Top Trending Cameras, September 2026

• Instax Pal 2 (Black)
• OM System PEN with 14-42mm III kit lens (Black)
• OM System PEN with 14-42mm III kit lens (Silver)
• OM System PEN (Black)
• OM System PEN (Silver)
• Canon EOS R8 Mark II
• Canon EOS R6 Mark III
• Canon EOS R5 Mark II
• Sony RX100 VII

B&H Trending Cameras, October 13

• Instax Pal 2
• Sony A7R VI
• Fujifilm X Half
• Camp Snap 2 (Strawberry Splash)
• Ricoh GR IV
• Panasonic Lumix L10
• Canon EOS R7 with 18-150mm kit lens
• Kodak Pixpro FZ55

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OM System has released a firmware update for three of its telephoto lenses, expanding their high-speed shooting capabilities and making it easier for photographers to capture fast-moving subjects at a distance.

Firmware version 1.1 for the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/4.0 PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5.0-6.3 IS II and M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5.0-6.3 IS adds support for shooting at up to 50 frames per second (fps) in Sequential Shooting SH2 and Pro Capture SH2 modes.

The new functionality works in these lenses when paired with the OM System OM-1, OM-1 Mark II or OM-3 camera bodies.

Download OM System Firmware Version 1.1

M.Zuiko ED 40-150mm f/4.0 PRO

M.Zuiko ED 100-400mm f/5.0-6.3 IS II

M.Zuiko ED 150-600mm f/5.0-6.3 IS Version 1.1

It’s a good idea to hold off downloading the latest firmware for a few weeks. This should give enough time for any new issues to arise in community chatter and for OM System to address them. Keep an eye on Digital Camera World, and we’ll let you know about any problems.

A previous firmware update already brought 50fps shooting in both Sequential Shooting SH2 and Pro Capture SH2 modes to other M.Zuiko lenses – such as the Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO.

Version 1.1 widens this feature to other models within OM System’s Micro Four Thirds lens lineup, bringing greater versatility for wildlife photographers in particular. Bird photographers, who often need to capture fleeting moments, will especially appreciate 50fps while using Pro Capture SH2 mode.

This mode continuously buffers images following a half-press of the shutter button, enabling you to save frames captured before fully pressing it. Sequential Shooting SH2, on the other hand, captures a rapid burst of images while the shutter button is fully depressed.

Rather than introducing new optical capabilities, firmware version 1.1 gives more opportunities to make use of high-speed continuous shooting with your existing OM System telephoto equipment, ideally helping you capture fast action without needing to change lenses.

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Here’s our pick of the best Olympus and OM System lenses: great glass for Micro Four Thirds cameras of any brand!

I’m not an Olympus / OM System photographer, but I’ve always liked the PEN range, mostly because of the gorgeous-looking PEN-F. So when the OM System PEN launched last month, I was actually quite excited about it. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t think I was going to buy one, and although I’ve surprised myself by considering it, I still don’t think it's quite the right camera for me. But for a lot of photographers out there, I think it absolutely is.

And yet, I’ve also seen criticism of the OM System PEN for not having better specs and essentially reusing old tech. Something that, to be fair, OM System has a habit of doing. If we were talking about an OM System OM-1 Mark III, I’d get it. Flagship cameras should be all about breaking new ground, but we’re not talking about a flagship camera; we’re talking about a small, stills-focused mirrorless camera that costs $999 / £849 / AU$1,499 body only.

Whether that’s affordable or not is by the by; it still sits at the lower end of the market alongside cameras such as the Fujifilm X-T30 III, Nikon Z50 II and Canon EOS R10. And while you can argue that its video features are lacking and a 25-MP sensor would have been nice, along with an image-processor update, you also get premium features in IBIS and weather sealing. IBIS in particular is unheard of in this class of cameras.

The thing is, not everybody wants top-notch video or action features. This is a camera that’s obviously aimed at photographers first, be it newcomers, casual snappers, or those looking for an everyday carry. Personally, I don’t see why every single camera release has to be a specs monster with an inflated price. If you want more from a camera with this form factor, you can pick up a Fujifilm X-E5 and pay for the privilege.

Don’t get me wrong, I love the X-E5, but does the world only need premium $1,000 / £1,000-plus cameras in 2026? I mean, cheap compact and mirrorless cameras do the numbers in sales charts, and we’re always moaning that consumer tech prices are climbing ever higher. So long as the price is right, I’m really not opposed to manufacturers recycling old tech.

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Are you a fan of Micro Four Thirds? Check out the best OM System cameras and the best Panasonic Lumix cameras. Plus, here's the latest camera news.

Retro camera fans have long been waiting for a refresh of the PEN series – and the latest trends from Japan suggest just how excited photographers are about the new OM System PEN.

Japanese photo retailer Camera Kitamura has shared the best-selling mirrorless cameras for September, a list that’s led by the Sony A7C II, the new OM System PEN, and the Sony A6700.

Both the Sony A7C II and the A6700 have been around for a few years and are regular attendees on Japan’s best-seller lists. But the camera in second place is a fresh launch.

The OM System PEN was only announced on September 09, with pre-orders initially not scheduled to begin shipping until late October. But only two days after the announcement, OM System Japan said that there had been so many orders that some may not get their camera until November.

The new 2026 PEN’s early success isn’t unwarranted. I’ve been shooting with an early review sample for a few weeks now. The compact retro design makes it the camera that I instinctively want to grab.

While the design may have been what first drew me to the new PEN, OM System’s new Micro Four Thirds shooter is also one of the most affordable mirrorless bodies with both in-body stabilization and weather sealing. It retails for $999 / £849 / AU$1,499 body-only, or $1,099 / £949 / AU$1,799 with a kit lens (which is what’s made the Kitamura best-seller list).

But perhaps the more interesting aspect of the latest list of best-sellers from Japan is that it’s the smallest sensor camera of the three major bodies announced in September that’s in the top three. The PEN was one of three major camera launches in September. Canon also introduced the EOS R8 Mark II, and Nikon also unveiled the Z5IIC. The R8 Mark II sits in fourth place on Kitamura’s list, while the Z5IIC didn’t make the top ten.

Looking at a single retailer in Japan isn’t going to be indicative of the camera market as a whole, but it’s interesting that of the three major launches last month, it’s the Micro Four Thirds shooter that’s dominating Kitamura’s sales. The trends list will be interesting to watch as those cameras begin shipping in October and November.

The OM System PEN, however, fell just behind the first-place Sony A7C II. Sony’s more compact full-frame mirrorless has been regularly dominating best-seller lists since its launch three years ago. Its compact design that still crams in a full-frame sensor has been well-loved, despite the camera’s age.

Compact designs seem to dominate much of Kitamura’s list. The Sony A6700 comes in third place, an APS-C shooter that’s small but fast.

The R8 Mark II sits in fourth place, with a new, more angular design inspired by the film Canon T80. The R8 Mark II still follows the trend of a more compact body design as a more entry-level full-frame, but unlike the original, the Mark II includes stabilization.

Another longstanding Sony favorite, the Sony A7 IV, sits in fifth place. That camera’s successor, the Sony A7 V, which has been dominating a number of best-seller lists since its launch, doesn’t show up until 8th place.

The only Fujifilm camera on Kitamura’s best-selling mirrorless list is the compact, budget-friendly Fujifilm X-M5. The X-M5 is both one of Fujifilm’s most affordable bodies and the smallest, though it lacks a viewfinder, and many features are geared towards hybrid shooting.

Two more Sony APS-C cameras sit on the list, the ZV-E10 II in seventh place and the Sony A6400 in ninth place. Both of those cameras are on the list for two-lens kits rather than the single kit lens options.

Canon rounds out the list with the EOS R6 Mark II in 10th place. While the camera has now been replaced with the Mark III, the R6 Mark II remains available at a lower price point than the newer model.

Kitamura Camera’s best-selling mirrorless cameras for September 2026

1. Sony A7C II
2. OM System PEN with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III kit lens
3. Sony A6700 with zoom lens kit
4. Canon EOS R8 Mark II
5. Sony A7 IV zoom lens kit
6. Fujifilm X-M5 with XC 15-45mm kit lens
7. Sony ZV-E10 II double zoom lens kit
8. Sony A7 V
9. Sony A6400 double zoom lens kit
10. Canon EOS R6 Mark II

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Read more about the best mirrorless cameras or the best cameras for travel.

When the original Canon PowerShot SX740 HS launched in 2018, the compact camera market was dominated by straightforward point-and-shoots, while premium compacts like the Leica Q3 43 were far less common.

According to the latest sales data from major retailer Yodobashi, the little PowerShot triumphs again as the No.1 compact camera in Japan right now.

In 2024, Canon introduced the PowerShot SX740 HS Lite, a lightly updated version of the original camera.

Despite changing just one small feature, the model has proven just as popular. Since its original launch 8 years ago, it has become a cult favorite, with second-hand prices higher than its original retail price of $549.99 / £549.99.

Canon's unchanged formula continues to win for buyers looking for a genuinely pocketable camera with a powerful zoom lens.

While the PowerShot SX740 HS comes with a 20.3MP 1/2.3-inch-type CMOS sensor, Yodobashi's Top 10 also features models with significantly larger sensors, with the top model featuring a 60MP full-frame sensor.

Yodobashi's Top 10 best-selling compact cameras, 2nd Half Aug 2026

1. Canon PowerShot SX740 HS / Lite | Silver | Black
2. Sony ZV-1 II | Black | White
3. Fujifilm X100VI | Silver | Black
4. Panasonic Lumix TZ99 / ZS99 | Black | White
5. Kodak Pixpro C1 | Brown | Black
6. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III | Black | Silver
7. Canon IXY 650 / PowerShot Elph 360 HS A / Ixus 285 HS A | Black | Silver
8. Sony RX10 V
9. OM System Tough TG-7 | Red | Black
10. Leica Q3 43

The two extreme compact camera types in today's market

Yodobashi's latest Top 10 reveals the compact camera market's current state.

There are two extremes: the cheap and cheerful, straightforward models like the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS / Lite (No.1), or even simpler and more affordable models like the Kodak Pixpro C1 (No.5), available for only $99.99 / £94.

On the other side, there are premium compacts like the hugely popular Fujifilm X100VI (No.3) and the high-end Leica Q3 43 (No.10), a full-frame 60.3MP model, with a hefty price tag of $7,950 / £5,890.

Also in demand, and back in Yodobashi's Top 10, is the OM System Tough TG-7 (No.9), a 12MP adventure companion that withstands freezing temperatures of -10°C (14°F) and is waterproof up to 15 meters (50 feet).

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The OM System lineup has just one camera remaining that hasn’t taken on the new name since the split from Olympus: The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. But the launch of another budget mirrorless – the new OM System PEN – has fans questioning what’s next for the long-standing E-M10 line.

Earlier this year, Japanese retailers began listing the E-M10 Mark IV as discontinued, but when Digital Camera World reached out to OM System, a representative told us back in January that the E-M10 Mark IV would remain available in the US. Now months later, the budget mirrorless still remains available on OM System’s official online stores in the US, the UK, Australia, and Canada.

But that was in January – and the launch of the OM System PEN raises the question of the E-M10 Mark IV’s future once again. Rumors are circulating that the E-M10 Mark IV will be discontinued soon, with one store owner claiming they received a message noting that there wouldn’t be a replacement.

OM System has not yet responded to those rumors, leaving the future of the E-M10 Mark IV uncertain.

The new PEN slides in above the price of the E-M10 Mark IV, but adds the weather-sealing that the older camera does not offer. Building cameras for the outdoors has been a particular focus for OM System, and the PEN's weather-sealing in a body that’s $999 / £849 / AU$1,499 reflects that.

While the two cameras are both retro, the design of the PEN follows a much different inspiration, using a rangefinder-inspired viewfinder placement. The newer PEN uses a more advanced autofocus system compared to the E-M10 Mark IV’s contrast detection system, but the cheaper camera does have slightly faster bursts at 6.3 fps with continuous autofocus compared to the PEN’s 5 fps.

I believe that one of the reasons that the E-M10 Mark IV has remained popular is as an alternative to a retro compact camera – particularly as the $900 / £870 price with a lens is far below popular compacts like the Fujifilm X100VI and Ricoh GR IV.

The E-M10 Mark IV is slightly lighter than the new PEN, but the PEN’s rangefinder-inspired design makes the newer camera a bit shorter and less deep, though slightly wider than the cheaper camera.

The new PEN’s rangefinder-inspired design does make it a better compact camera alternative, particularly with weather-sealing for really taking the small camera more places.

The biggest temptation for the E-M10 Mark IV is the affordable price point. Paired with a kit lens, the older camera is about $200 less in the US – though there’s less than a £100 difference at list price in the UK.

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Take a look at the best retro cameras or the best Micro Four Thirds cameras.

The Olympus PEN is such a legendary design concept that it has survived the transition from film to digital and, nearly 70 years later, lives on as the new OM System PEN mirrorless camera.

Yet, after the introduction of the original Olympus PEN in 1959, Yoshihisa Maitani – the designer behind several legendary Olympus cameras, including the PEN – had actually called the original PEN “a huge failure.”

The reason that the designer dubbed the first PEN a failure is that the half-frame film camera was so radically different in order to create a smaller, lighter SLR that other camera makers couldn’t copy it.

“Because we took all the patents, no other company could manufacture this type of camera, and there was no boom,” he said.

While the PEN didn’t inspire copycats, the first half-frame camera made in Japan did spark a wider movement for half-frame film and was unexpectedly popular.

But despite labeling the original Olympus PEN as a failure for failing to spark a wider movement for compact designs, the PEN survived, undergoing many iterations from the film PEN F to the digital PEN E-P7.

Had Maitani seen the evolution from the Olympus PEN in 1959 to the OM System PEN in 2026, I have to think that he wouldn’t have called the camera a failure. Despite the 67 years between those two cameras, the original PEN and the modern equivalent are still built prioritizing the same three things: size, simplicity and price.

A camera built for anyone to enjoy

Maitani’s original concept for who the original PEN camera was built for remains right in the name. The designer described the camera as “a tool that allows everyone to enjoy photography easily, just like a paper and pen.”

The name has stuck through several decades and iterations, but the series remains committed to simplicity. The new OM System PEN may have a retro design inspired by the original, but the camera still has a classic mode dial with easy access to auto mode.

Part of being built for everyone is the compact size, meant to be easy to carry around. Size was a focus for Maitani when he first started working for Olympus in 1956. The original PEN was unusual in that it was half-frame – which feels appropriately not unlike Micro Four Thirds cameras today.

Perhaps the biggest difference between the PEN then and the PEN now is that the original 1959 camera was a fixed-lens compact, not an interchangeable-lens camera. While Maitani continued to develop small fixed-lens cameras like the PEN EE, he saw the growing demand for small but advanced cameras.

The key challenge to creating a smaller SLR at that time was the mirror box.

Miaitani built a smaller mirror box that was turned on its side, but this created issues with the traditional shutter. So he built a rotary shutter design made from titanium and the first interchangeable lens camera in the series, the PEN F, was born in 1963.

A camera meant to head outside

OM System’s commitment to Micro Four Thirds feels true to Olympus’ history of compact designs – and particularly the PEN – but size isn’t the only one of Maitani’s priorities that continues in modern designs.

One of OM System’s key focuses is creating cameras built for the outdoors. The new OM PEN is the first in the series that has full weather-sealing, including a new sealed kit lens: the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III.

This, too, could perhaps be inspired by another one of Maitani’s famous quotes: “A camera is meaningless unless you take it outside.”

OM System says the new 2026 PEN is meant to be an everyday carry camera – and that rain resistance goes a long way in making that possible.

But one of the key features that the 1959 PEN was known for was price. While designing the original PEN, Maitani had a strict target of ¥6,000; that was a fraction of Olympus' cheapest consumer camera at the time, which cost ¥23,000.

Using the exchange rate of the time, that meant the camera cost about $17 / £15. Adjusting for inflation, that’s about $196 / £315 today.

The PEN may not come close to that original price, but the new mirrorless iteration is the most affordable OM System camera (though the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV remains available and is cheaper).

It sells for $999 / £849 / AU$1,499, making it one of the few mirrorless cameras under four figures that still has in-body image stabilization, weather-sealing and an electronic viewfinder – and a retro design that harks back to Mitani's vision, all those years ago.

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The GoPro Mission 1 Pro ILS delivers an unusual mix between a one-inch sensor and a Micro Four Thirds mount without electronic contacts – but the action camera giant is now an official member of the Micro Four Thirds standards group.

OM System – one of the founding members of the MFT standard group alongside Panasonic – announced on September 17 that GoPro is now an official member of the group, thanks to the Mission 1 Pro ILS.

The Micro Four Thirds standard crosses several brands and includes a wide range of different cameras. But the Mission 1 Pro ILS is perhaps the most unusual. The only thing Micro Four Thirds on GoPro’s first mirrorless camera is the mount. The sensor isn’t MFT but rather a one-inch sensor built for shooting up to 8K video.

While the Micro Four Thirds system tends to be widely interchangeable, the Mission 1 Pro ILS has more limitations. The camera body doesn’t have any electronics in the mount. That means the ILS can’t usefocus-by-wire autofocus lenses, as these optics still need to communicate with the camera body to adjust the focus.

The ILS needs to be paired with a manual focus lens, which eliminates much of the optics from OM System and Panasonic from actually working with the new camera body. Still, OM System is welcoming GoPro into the official MFT family.

Along with camera makers like OM System and Panasonic, the Micro Four Thirds family includes several lens makers, including Laowa, Zeiss, Tokina, Cosina, TTArtisan, and SLR Magic.

GoPro’s acceptance into the Micro Four Thirds standard will likely raise another question: Will GoPro have additional MFT launches in the future? Will GoPro ever launch its own native lenses?

Joining the Micro Four Thirds standard doesn’t necessarily promise future products. Both Tamron and Sigma are still listed among the members. Tamron only launched one MFT lens, a 14-150mm released in 2014 and discontinued four years later. Sigma quietly stopped releasing MFT mount lenses, citing decreased demand in 2023.

But OM System says that GoPro’s entry into Micro Four Thirds mirrorless brings more options for videographers. “GoPro’s participation is expected to further expand the use of the Micro Four Thirds System in amateur filmmaking, professional video production, and at the highest levels of cinema,” the OM System press release reads. “The participation of a diverse range of companies in this open standard will continue to expand the product lineup and create new possibilities for visual expression and image capture.”

GoPro’s reputation is built on action cameras, but the company calls the Mission 1 Pro ILS not an action camera but a compact cinema camera. The Mission 1 Pro ILS began shipping in September, following the launch of the company’s fixed-lens versions earlier this year.

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GoPro has some fine print on what lenses are compatible – these are the best lenses for the Mission 1 Pro ILS. Or, read the Mission 1 Pro ILS review.

If you're searching for a lightweight, compact travel camera to capture every moment of your adventures, check out these four deals from Wex at Amazon – each features or comes bundled with a versatile lens.

The Sony A6700 with 18-135mm lens is now just £1,699 at Wex – you save £100 from the original price of £1,799.

The OM System Tough TG-7 in black is now just £416.59 at Amazon – you save £83.40 off its £499.99 RRP.

The Pentax WG-8 in green is now just £343.90 at Amazon – you save £136.09 off the original price of £479.99.

Sony A6700

Most versatile

The Sony A6700 compact mirrorless camera packs serious power. It features a 26.1MP APS-C sensor, fast 11fps burst shooting, in-body image stabilization, and 4K60p video.

Whether you're snapping cityscapes or wildlife on safari, it's ready to deliver stunning photos and smooth video.

Sony improved the autofocus and button layout, making it easier to use on the go – even if the body is still pretty compact. You can pair it with a huge range of Sony E-mount lenses – or third-party options – to suit whatever trip you're on.

OM System Tough TG-7

Best waterproof

With the OM System Tough TG-7, you never have to worry about weather or terrain. It's built to be a companion on any adventure: waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof.

Its 12MP sensor can actually capture more light where it's often dim. Plus, it shoots RAW and bursts up to 20fps – perfect for catching fast moments. The TG-7 has a 4x zoom (approx. 25-100mm in 35mm terms) with a standout macro mode that lets you snap amazing close-ups and 4K video.

It's simple, durable, and versatile – the perfect when you need a reliable camera that won't quit.

Pentax WG-8

Most budget-friendly

The Pentax WG-8 is built tough to survive water, dust, drops, freezing temps – you name it. It's perfect if you want a camera that's truly adventure-proof, without spending big.

With a 20MP sensor and 5x optical zoom (approx. 28-140mm in 35mm terms). It shoots decent photos and 4k video at 30fps.

It also shines in ultra-close-up shots, and it performs well underwater and in extreme conditions where other cameras might fail. It's a solid budget-friendly choice for anyone needing a tough, reliable camera for travel.

Discover more and browse the best travel cameras, best compact cameras and best point and shoot cameras

What's more fun than visiting a cool city you've never been to before? Visiting a cool city you've never been to before with a brand new camera you've never seen before.

I was lucky enough to attend the launch event for the new OM System PEN in Germany. I booked a seat with extra legroom on the plane, so I could stretch out and rest my limbs before pounding the pavement on Berlin's streets, and loaded my hand luggage with a few lenses I thought would suit the assignment.

I didn't know at the time that the PEN would launch alongside the new OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III – a compact, weather-sealed 28-84mm equivalent – so I packed a versatile walkabout lens: the M.Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro, giving me an effective 24-80mm zoom.

That would cover close range, but I needed a pocketable telephoto – so I paired it with the M.Zuiko 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 R, an 80-300mm equivalent that's smaller and slimmer than a soda can. And, because it's literally the size of a cookie, I also popped the 9mm f/8 Fisheye Body Cap, just because.

It turns out I barely needed the Pro lens, aside from a couple of times indoors where I needed that extra 4mm on the wide end or the additional stop of light to shoot in the dark. I didn't use the tele that much, either, though it was definitely useful for magnifying a couple of scenes and isolating subjects at distance.

Having used OM (and, before it, Olympus) kit for well over a decade, I was immediately at home with the new PEN despite having never seen it.

It looks and feels, unsurprisingly, like a cross between the Olympus PEN-F (a "holy grail" camera that has become a cult classic) and the Olympus PEN E-P7 (my daily driver, which is smaller but lacks a slew of features).

And it performs a whole lot like the OM System OM-5 Mark II – again unsurprising, given that the PEN shares many of the same specs and tech.

While it is, on paper, an entry-level camera – evidenced, if nothing else, by its $999 / £849 / AU$1,499 price tag – it boasts an impressive arsenal of flagship firepower inherited from the OM-1 and OM-3. And, indeed, it packs some computational photography tools that aren't found even in the most expensive cameras from other manufacturers.

This includes functions like High Res Shot, which uses the 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system to power a pixel shift multi-shot mode that enables the 20.4MP sensor to produce 50MP or 80MP images – albeit only on static subjects, as movement invariably creates unpleasant artefacts.

However, the computational feature I used the most – handily accessed, along with the entire suite, via the CP (computational photography) button – was LiveND.

This brilliant bit of innovation gives you a "live" simulation of the blurred motion that you'd normally need a neutral density filter to achieve. However, by turning on this tool (offering up to a virtual four-stop filter), you can achieve creative slow shutter speed effects without needing a physical ND on your lens.

It embodies what the OM System PEN is all about: empowering you to create, and capture those unexpected everyday moments, even when you go out without your full kit. No ND filters? Turn on LiveND. No tripod? Rely on the 5.5-stop in-body stabilization. No medium format camera? Get a 50MP or 80MP image with High Res Shot.

Here's what people don't understand about the PEN: it's not supposed to be the best at shooting everything, but it enables you to shoot anything – even when you didn't anticipate it.

A few days of street shooting proved that perfectly. For candid portraiture, the human subject detection algorithm made sure that faces were in focus – along with the backs of heads and bodies, if they were facing the other way.

For shooting in poor light, even with a tiny-irised f/8 lens, the IBIS made it possible to shoot handheld at slow shutter speeds. For getting crunchy, black-and-white, Leica-like street photos, or color-popping graffiti images, or faded filmic 35mm-style shots, I could dive into the color and mono profiles along with selection of Art Filters.

It's those intangibles that are more important than having the most megapixels, the largest sensor or the latest tech. Because they enable you to create, on the spot, in the moment, without missing a beat – and then beam the shots straight to your phone to share on social or WhatsApp.

You make the magic in-camera – there's no need for post-production if you don't want to. And after a thousand shots in Berlin – and a few thousand more in less exotic locales – I sure do love making magic with this thing.

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See how the PEN compares to the best Olympus and OM System cameras, and see which are the best Olympus and OM System lenses with which to pair it.

The world has waited five years for this retro camera to make a comeback, but customers in Japan will have to wait a little longer – the brand new OM System PEN has received so many orders that it is currently facing delays in Japan.

Parent company OM Digital Solutions has just announced that, due to overwhelming demand for the aggressively priced and excitingly specced camera, some pre-orders "may be delayed until November or later" in the region.

While orders are currently unaffected in other territories, the new PEN has been so well received that it wouldn't surprise me to see similar demand across the globe.

This Micro Four Thirds camera is not only one of the most stunning-looking bodies on the market, it's also comparable in size to the ever-popular (and ever out of stock) Fujifilm X100VI – making this a great option for anyone seeking a compact, capable camera.

Moreover, the PEN represents unbelievable value for money; for just $999 / $849 / AU$1,499 it offers weather sealing, in-body image stabilization and an electronic viewfinder, a combination virtually unheard of at that price.

It also possesses a suite of impressive features. While its native resolution is 20.4MP, it can shoot 50MP and 80MP high-resolution stills, boasts advanced features like 30fps pre-capture (aka Pro Capture), as well as computational photography tools such as software-driven neutral density filters to achieve slow shutter speed effects without the need for a physical ND filter.

I'm a big fan of the camera, calling it "the best bang-for-buck body on the market (not to mention one of, if not the, best-looking) and without a doubt the best everyday carry camera available for photography purists" in my OM System PEN review.

It's available for preorder now, shipping in late September across Europe and late October in the US – and judging by demand in Japan, you should probably get in early if you want one at launch!

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Take a look at the best OM System & Olympus cameras, along with the best OM System & Olympus lenses to go with them.

If the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III seems familiar, that's because we've seen it at least three times before (there was the original lens, a mark II and a mark II "R" before this one).

It's always tempting to overlook a kit lens, but in the case of the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III that would be a mistake. You see unlike most kit lenses, this one is weather sealed – which is both a breath of fresh air and a case of OM putting its money where its mouth is.

After all, every camera in its lineup boasts weather sealing – including the new and technically entry-level OM System PEN. But what good is a sealed camera if the lens that comes with it isn't sealed as well?

In addition to IPX1 certification, the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III also boasts a new look and refined operation – eschewing the cumbersome lock switch for an elegant and satisfying twist-and-click mechanism.

Yes, the optical formula is the same – but this lens is a far better performer than most give it credit for. If you're thinking of picking up the latest PEN, or you just want a compact and budget-friendly weatherproof lens to complement an existing OM camera, this deserves your attention.

OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III: Specifications

OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III: Price & availability

The OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III carries a standalone price of $350 / £349 / AU$479. However, it's really designed to be bought with a camera – where it effectively only costs $100 / £100 / AU$300.

If you pick up the lens in a kit with the OM System PEN, it will cost $1,099 / £949 / AU$1,799.

OM also makes another lens with the same focal length and aperture range, but with a non-weather sealed pancake design and a motorized zoom – the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 EZ, which is priced $349 / £329 / AU$429.

OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III: Build & handling

First of all, in case you've ended up here while searching for OM's other 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, this is a very different proposition to the electronic zoom pancake lens!

The OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 EZ is a much smaller optic, thanks to its collapsible pancake design, and also boasts a motorized zoom – which can be handy for remote shooting as it enables you to zoom in and out. However, it's not a weather-sealed lens.

This new OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III is a much larger lens, though it still collapses to palm-size when not in operation. It is, as noted, IPX1 certified to dust and splash resistance, but the zoom is not motorized – meaning you have to manually 'telescope' the barrel, upon which the lens extends about an inch.

Unlike older versions of the lens, which had a lock switch that had to be disengaged during the twist-and-deploy motion, the mark III has a more elegant click mechanism that simply locks and unlocks as you turn the barrel.

Generally this lens was a joy to use and shoot with – the only downside is that, because you have to extend it in order to start shooting, I was occasionally a step slow off the mark because I'm used to just turning the camera on and stabbing the shutter. You get used to it, but it still trips me up occasionally!

OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III: Performance

I primarily tested the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III with the OM System PEN, though I also tried it out with the OM System OM-3 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II.

While the form has certainly changed, the function hasn't. This lens has the same optical formula as its previous iterations – and, as I expect our lab results to bear out as soon as we can read OM's latest RAW format, its optical performance is also essentially identical.

I certainly didn't experience any huge difference from the earlier versions I've used in years past – but that's not the end of the world. While most people sleep on kit lenses (and, for some reason, this lens in particular), it's a surprisingly pleasing performer.

It performs best, as you'd might expect, at its widest focal length – and honestly, at 14mm f/4 is has a brilliant amount of bite. Sharpness does drop the longer you go, but this is compensated by the correspondingly ascending apertures. Honestly, I'm happy with the performance of this lens anywhere it lands in its zoom range.

The first sample image below is a great example of what the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III can do; the details of the dayglo gnome and the hairy leaves at his feet alike are piercingly sharp.

Focusing is impressive in all respects, too. Autofocus is nice and snappy, the ability to focus as close as 0.13m comes in very useful for an everyday lens, and the fact that it supports focus stacking makes it a very versatile performer for anyone looking to get creative.

OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III: Sample images

There are dozens more sample images in my OM System PEN review, but here's a selection of shots I took with the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III in various conditions and situations, indoors and outdoors, using a variety of settings, filters and profiles.

OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III: Lab tests

We've put the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III through our battery of lab tests, but we are currently unable to analyze the results (until we can process OM's newest RAW format).

I will update this review as soon as we've completed the lab analysis.

Until then, given that this lens has the same optical formula as the previous iterations, you can expect almost identical performance.

OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III: Early verdict

While I need to wait until we can process our lab tests before I can officially assign a score to this lens, I'm familiar enough with its predecessors (with which it shares the same optical formula) and happy enough with the thousands of frames I've shot to say that the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III performs well.

In real-world use I'm impressed with its sharpness, particularly wide and wide open at 14mm f/3.5 where it gives satisfying levels of crispness and crunch – dial it down to f/5.6 and you get pretty much all the bite you could possibly want.

However, I don't think sheer sharpness alone is really the metric by which this lens should be judged. It's a lens that costs you $100 / £100 / AU$300 if you buy it with a camera or $350 / £349 / AU$479 when bought on its own – for that price, the fact that it's impressively sharp and weather sealed is pretty dang amazing.

After thousands of shots on multiple camera bodies, I can safely conclude that I would be delighted to use this lens as my daily driver – which is its intended purpose. Yes, when I'm setting out to shoot something intentionally, I'll snap on a dedicated lens – like the M.Zuiko 45mm or 75mm f/1.8 for portraiture.

But as an everyday companion for my everyday carry camera, the the OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III does everything I could possibly ask of it – and does it well. It is the perfect lens to pair with the OM System PEN, but honestly I think it's an even better partner for the slightly chunkier OM-5 family.

The equivalent 28-84mm focal range is perfect for everyday shooting, with enviable close focusing, fast and faithful autofocus, and even support for in-camera focus stacking. If you want a cheap, compact, capable lens that shoots whatever you want, whatever the weather, you just found it.

OM System has officially brought one of photography’s most recognizable camera names back into the spotlight, and the new OM System PEN is now available to pre-order.

In the US, the camera body is currently listed for $999.99 at both B&H Photo and Adorama, while photographers in the UK can pre-order it for £849 from Wex Photo Video, Park Cameras and London Camera Exchange.

It marks the first camera to be launched under the PEN name since OM System took over the Olympus imaging business – and on paper at least, this looks like far more than simply another retro-inspired mirrorless camera.

The PEN name has always been closely linked with small, beautifully designed cameras, and OM System is clearly keeping that philosophy alive. The new model uses a 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds Live MOS sensor paired with the TruePic IX processor, all packed into a body weighing just 393g with the battery and memory card installed.

There is also a built-in 2.36-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, something that immediately makes this new PEN feel like a more complete photographic tool rather than simply a compact interchangeable-lens camera designed around its rear screen. Better still, the body is IPX1 weather-resistant when used with an appropriate weather-sealed lens, bringing another genuinely useful feature to a camera designed to be carried everywhere.

Autofocus also represents a serious step forward. The new PEN features a 121-point all-cross-type phase-detection autofocus system, alongside AI-powered subject detection capable of recognizing people as well as cats and dogs. OM System has even included Starry Sky AF, while continuous shooting can reach an impressive 30fps at full resolution.

Combine that with 5-axis in-body image stabilization, which offers up to 5.5 stops of compensation at the center of the frame, and this suddenly becomes a small camera with specifications that should make it capable of considerably more than casual holiday snapshots. Street photography, travel, family photography and even fast-moving subjects are all firmly within its remit.

What interests me most, however, is how heavily OM System has leaned into getting photographers away from the computer. The camera features dedicated Color and Monochrome Profile Controls that let you adjust the look of your images in-camera, with a front-mounted Profile Control switch providing quick access.

Color profiles allow individual adjustment of 12 colors across 11 levels, while the monochrome controls enable photographers to play with filters, grain, tone, highlights, shadows and vignetting. It feels like OM System understands exactly why cameras with distinctive JPEG looks have become so appealing, particularly among street and everyday photographers who want to create a recognizable look without spending hours processing RAW files afterwards.

There is plenty of OM System’s computational photography technology packed inside as well. The PEN includes Handheld High Res Shot for producing 50MP images, alongside Tripod High Res Shot for 80MP shots, Live ND from ND2 through to ND16, Focus Stacking, HDR and Multiple Exposure modes.

Those features can be accessed using the dedicated Computational Photography button, making techniques that would traditionally require filters, a tripod, or considerable post-production work available directly inside the camera. For a body this compact, that is an impressive creative toolkit – and one that gives the PEN considerably more depth than its simple rangefinder-inspired exterior might initially suggest.

OM System has not forgotten video, either. The PEN can record DCI 4K at 24p and UHD 4K at up to 30p, along with Full HD at up to 60p and Slow & Quick-motion options. There is a 3.5mm microphone input, vertical video support and a recording tally light, while face and eye detection can help keep subjects in focus. But I suspect photography will remain the biggest attraction here.

At $999.99 in the US and £849 in the UK, the new OM System PEN lands in a fiercely competitive part of the camera market, but its combination of compact dimensions, interchangeable Micro Four Thirds lenses, an electronic viewfinder, weather resistance, powerful stabilization and extensive in-camera creative tools gives it plenty of personality. The PEN has always been about making serious photography easier to carry – and this new generation appears determined to keep that idea very much alive.

The popular retro Olympus PEN series is entering its OM System era. The OM System PEN is a compact mirrorless camera mixing the PEN legacy with simple controls and a design that’s small enough – and durable enough – to want to carry every day.

The OM System PEN, announced on September 09, carries the same unstacked 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and TruPic IX image processor as cameras like the OM-5 Mark II, but revives the longtime favorite PEN series with its retro, rangefinder-inspired design and yet sits on the more affordable end of OM System’s lineup.

Take a look at a guided tour of the camera:

The PEN has an unusual mix of stabilization and weather-sealing for the price

Price-wise, the PEN slots in between the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV and the OM System OM-5 Mark II, making the new camera one of the brand’s most affordable options, second only to the last remaining camera to carry the Olympus name.

Priced at $999 / £849 / AU$1,499, the OM System PEN brings two features that are difficult to find in this price bracket of mirrorless category: weather-sealing and in-body image stabilization.

The OM System PEN isn’t just weather-sealed but rated as IPX1 splashproof. That rating isn’t as robust as the IP53 rating for most of OM System’s higher-priced cameras, but weather-sealing is rare among budget-priced cameras and rarer still to come with an official IP rating. The IPX1 rating means the camera is rated to withstand rain (but not water spraying from every direction), while the X means that the camera wasn’t tested for dust resistance.

The OM System PEN also houses a stabilization system rated for 5.5 stops.

Weather-sealing and stabilization are arguably the two biggest features that OM System is known for, as the camera brand has positioned itself as an outdoor camera brand in the wake of the split from Olympus. With the launch of the PEN, even the cheapest mirrorless camera that carries the OM System name has those two features.

Finding both stabilization and weather-sealing in a mirrorless camera under $1,000 is hard to do without picking up an older or used model – though not impossible. The similarly priced Nikon Z50 II is weather-sealed but doesn’t have IBIS. Canon’s cheapest mirrorless with both weather-sealing and IBIS is the EOS R7 ($1,499 / £1,349 / AU$1,799); Sony’s is the A6600 ($1,399 / £1,450 / discontinued in AU), and Fujifilm doesn’t get to both features until the X-T5 ($1,699 / £1,399 / AU$2,699).

The biggest competition to the PEN for bringing both stabilization and weather-sealing is fellow Micro Four Thirds camera maker Panasonic, which offers five-axis sensor-shift stabilization with splash and dust seals on the Lumix G97 at about $850 / £899 / AU$1,499 with a lens.

The OM System PEN is the first in the PEN series to include weather-sealing, a move that makes a lot of sense for what the camera is meant for. OM System is targeting this camera both towards beginners and photographers looking for an everyday carry camera – and it’s hard to carry a camera every day if that camera can’t withstand a little rain.

The OM System PEN still maintains a gap between the brand’s next camera up in the lineup – the OM-5 Mark II – however. The OM-5 Mark II has better IP53 weather-sealing and up to 7.5 stops of stabilization, but also faster performance at 10 fps with a mechanical shutter to the PEN’s 6 fps. The PEN’s electronic shutter can also reach 30fps, but focus is fixed on the first frame.

Both the PEN and OM-5 Mark II share a 121-point autofocus system, though the PEN also has pet and human eye subject detection (albeit in stills only).

The OM System PEN keeps a retro but easy-to-use design

Like earlier PEN cameras, the newest addition to the series uses a viewfinder that’s placed off in the corner, rangefinder-style rather than the SLR-style centered placement. While the camera favors a retro design, the dials and controls are geared more towards simplicity and usability, featuring a more traditional mode dial. OM System describes it as “a timeless design for the joy of photography.”

But, like earlier digital PEN cameras, the 2026 PEN still has a dedicated control dial for creative control to easily switch between different color or monochrome looks. The PEN has the same color profiles as the OM-3, including the ability to customize different looks, but OM System is also launching an update to the OI.Share app that allows tweaking color recipes in the app and uploading to the camera – including creating new recipes based on an inspiration photo.

The PEN’s touchscreen is tilt-capable and includes a selfie mode that triggers shots with the touchscreen when flipped forward.

Alongside weather-sealing and stabilization, computational photography remains a big push for OM System, and the PEN features a dial just for those modes as well, including high-res mode, live NDs, and focus stacking. Additional modes, such as multiple exposures, are available inside the camera’s menu.

The OM System PEN is more geared towards stills, but the camera does offer 4K shooting, both vertical and horizontal videos, and the wider dynamic range modes OM-Cinema1 and OM-Cinema2, along with supporting the same creative controls for stills for shooting video.

The Olympus PEN series has long been a favorite among retro camera fans, spanning both the original film camera in 1959 to modern digital options like the 2016 Olympus PEN-F. The OM System PEN aims to pay homage to that inspiration as a camera that’s beginner-friendly, but that more serious photographers may want to reach for as a compact, everyday carry camera – and the weather-sealing and stabilization mixed with the retro design will go a long way towards those goals.

The weather-sealing makes the new OM System PEN slightly thicker than the PEN F, but the mirrorless still comes in at a compact 43.4mm depth and a lightweight 393g – including a new battery that’s rated to 410 shots.

The OM System PEN is expected to begin shipping in late October in the US, or late September / early October in Europe, along with the newly announced kit lens, the M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III.

Pre-orders have already opened at several retailers. The camera, available in black or silver, retails for $999 / £850 / AU$1,499.99 / CA$1,399 body only, or $1,099 / £999 / AU$1,799.99 / CA$1,549 with the kit lens. In North America, the camera will also be offered in a two-lens kit for $1,299 / CA$1,799 with 14-42mm and 40-150mm lenses.

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When OM System split from Olympus, the revived camera brand narrowed its focus to cameras built for the outdoors – and the company’s latest lens makes that outdoor push exceptionally clear. The new OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III, on the surface, is just a refreshed kit lens – but it also means that even some of the brand’s cheap optics are coming with weather-sealing now.

Launched alongside the long-awaited OM System PEN on September 09, the 14-42mm is a compact, budget kit lens. But while the lens comes at a $349 / CA$499 price – and even less when part of the PEN kit – the lens carries the same weather-sealed rating as the new camera body.

The new kit lens is IPX1 rated. That’s not as robust as OM System’s IP53 rating across its pricier camera bodies and lenses, but it’s impressive considering the price point. The X in the rating means it wasn’t tested for dust resistance, but the lens is sealed against rain and snow.

Mixed with the OM System PEN launch, there’s an obvious theme here – that even the brand’s most affordable options are beginning to arrive with some level of weather-resistance. The newly announced PEN is rare in its mix of weather-sealing and stabilization for the price point, but of course, the camera needs a sealed lens to go with it – and the M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III is that lens.

The lens continues the brand’s compact, lightweight kit lens design, coming in at 50.5mm / 1.98 inches long when retracted and 125g / 4.4 oz.

Beyond the zoom range, the kit lens aims for versatility by allowing autofocusing as close as .13m / 5.2 inches from the front of the lens. Adding in the Micro Four Thirds crop factor, that creates a magnification of up to .53x in 35mm equivalent.

An affordable kit lens launch like this probably won’t make many Micro Four Thirds shooters immediately rush out to buy one – but a weather-sealed camera without a weather-sealed lens isn’t really rain-resistant at all, so it’s nice to see OM System build an affordable sealed lens to go along with its new sealed camera.

The new kit lens will add $100 / £50 / CA$150 to the body-only price of the OM System PEN, but the new lens will also be sold separately for $350 / £349 / CA$499. Like the new camera, shipping is estimated to begin in late October in the US and late September / early October in Europe.

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In my heart of hearts, I knew that the OM System PEN wasn't going to be a named successor to the Olympus PEN-F. But while it doesn't carry the "F", this new PEN is absolutely a spiritual successor to the PEN-F. And in every way possible – perhaps including its looks – it's a better camera.

I know that OM System can be a tough sell for some people, so let's quickly take an objective look at what the OM System PEN offers for the price.

For just $999 / £849 you get a camera that's weather-sealed, has in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and an electronic viewfinder (EVF), is loaded with pro features like 30fps Pro Capture, has computational photography tools like simulated ND filters (Live ND) and 80MP High Res Shot, has algorithmic autofocus (including astrophotography) and packs a stack of film-inspired picture profiles.

On top of all that, the OM System PEN is one of the best-looking retro cameras on the market. Seriously, aside from a sensor size prejudice, what's not to like about it?

Okay, there are a couple of things – like the 8-bit video, though honestly this is a stills-first camera to its core – but overall this is a frankly obscene amount of firepower in a camera that's sublimely small and effortlessly cool.

Take a look at my quick guided tour of the camera:

OM System PEN: Specifications

OM System PEN: Price & availability

The OM System PEN will be available in both silver and black in late September / early October with a price tag of $999 / £849 / AU$1,499 body only.

It will also be available in a bundle with the new, weather-sealed OM System M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III kit lens (a 28-84mm equivalent) for $1,099 / £949 / AU$1,799.

In the US and Australia, a double-lens kit that adds the M.Zuiko 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 R lens (80-300mm equivalent) will also be available for $1,299 / AU$2,099.

For reference, Fujifilm's cheapest body with weather sealing, IBIS and an EVF is the Fujifilm X-T5 at $1,999 / £1,699, while Canon's cheapest is the Canon EOS R7 at $1,649 / £1,449. (Call me churlish, but I'm discounting the Panasonic Lumix G97 due to its primitive contrast-based AF system.)

OM System PEN: Build & handling

The OM System PEN is almost identical in size to the PEN-F, with handling that's very familiar all-round – from the rangefinder-like positioning of the EVF on the left shoulder to the presence of the Profile Control switch on the front.

While it doesn't boast the same premium heft and construction as the PEN-F (as in, don't expect a single block of milled aluminum), in the hand it drives much as the F did – only this time you have the benefit of IPX1-certified weather sealing and operation in environments from 32°F / 0° to 104°F / 40°C.

Another big upgrade from the PEN-F is the presence of a dedicated memory card door on the side of the body – rather than stowing the card in the battery compartment, which these days is a mark of entry-level cameras.

Another upgrade for many, and something that has been adopted from the Olympus PEN E-P7 (a brilliant 2021 camera that was only released in Europe), is the repositioning of the power switch to the right-hand side of the top plate.

This makes it possible to turn on and operate the camera one-handed, for quickfire street shooting – or, as my friend Emily from Micro Four Nerds calls it – "Festival Mode". I personally never use a camera this way, but I know how important it is for a lot of photographers.

Also making its way across from the E-P7 is the aforementioned Profile Control switch, rather than the full Creative Dial from the PEN-F.

This is a simple flip switch that enables you to access the picture profiles menu while shooting, giving you access to the Color and Mono profiles, along with Color Profile Control and general recipe settings. (The Creative Dial offered dedicated positions for Color, Mono, Art (Filters) and CRT – the Color Creator / Profile menu.)

The battery compartment at the bottom contains a brand new battery design for OM, the squat (almost square) BLS-7. CIPA rates the battery as good for 410 shots (or 80-130 minutes of video), but I've got well over 600 shots out of a battery before recharging.

OM System PEN: Performance

The OM System PEN embodies everything that I've always loved about the PEN family, dating all the way back to the original E-P1 in 2009 (which was Olympus' first ever mirrorless camera).

It's a quick, nimble camera with agile autofocus that enables you to react instantly to the world around you. Paired with the compact new M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 III kit lens, it's a weather-sealed and near-pocketable marvel – making this a truly take-anywhere, shoot anything, whatever the weather setup.

True to the PEN ethos, "as simple as pen and paper", this camera can be used as a straight-up point-and-shoot; stick it in auto or semi-auto and it's a fire-and-forget snapper that gives you great results. But the more you investigate the many magic tricks up its sleeves, the more you realize what a creative powerhouse this thing really is.

Like Fujifilm cameras, the OM System PEN is loaded with film-inspired picture profiles and a slew of Art Filters. So, if you want to level up your images, you can enable a profile or filter and effectively "pre-produce" your image – giving you gorgeous JPEGs, straight out of camera, with no need to tinker in post production.

Want to jazz things up even more? You can fine-tune these profiles or dive into the Color Creator to customize the presets or make your own photo recipes.

You can even upload and share these using the OI.Share app (which, for my money, is the best companion camera app on the market if for no other reason that it actually works – and is brilliant for transferring files and remote shooting).

Want to get even more creative? Use the CP button to unlock a suite of computational photography features, including Live ND – a software-powered set of neutral density filters, enabling you to shoot long-exposure movement shots without the need for physical lens filters.

Or how about High Res Shot mode, which enables you to capture 80MP RAW images for those moments when you want hyper texture and detail – but without being bogged down by the everyday bulk of a medium format camera.

Experiment with in-camera focus stacking, shoot a spot of astrophotography with Starry Sky Autofocus, try light painting with Live Composite, shoot fast action like a professional with 30fps Pro Capture (which records the 12 frames before you fully press the shutter, so you never miss the magic moment)…

There is so much creative potential packed into the OM System PEN that you will become a more versatile and more adventurous photographer almost by osmosis.

But there are, of course, some limitations. The biggest one, as is ever the case with OM System and Olympus cameras, is the resolution; while Panasonic has graduated to 25MP sensors, OM is still using trusty 20MP affairs (for reference, this is the same one found in the OM-5 Mark II).

Personally, this makes no odds to me. As I've said before, ad nauseum, this is more than enough resolution for anything shy of larger physical prints; I have magazine covers and double-page spreads shot on 20MP and even 16MP OM / Olympus sensors. And if you do need the extra pixels for printing, High Res Shot gives you 80 million of them.

Really, though, the biggest limitation comes in terms of video; given that this camera uses the OM-5 Mark II sensor, you can only shoot 8-bit video. And while the OM System PEN adds the subject detection AF (for humans and animals) that was sorely missing from the OM-5, it only works for stills – not video.

In short, this isn't a vlogging camera; it's a pretty pure photography camera. If you want to shoot a bit of video for social media, or you need to snag a bit of B-roll, it's ideal – but moving pictures are absolutely secondary to still images. But make no mistake, those still images are stunning.

OM System PEN: Sample images

OM System PEN: Lab tests

To judge how the OM System PEN performs in our lab tests, we've compared it to thee rival cameras that each cost around the same price, while also having a similarly compact form factor. The Nikon Z fc has a similar retro aesthetic to the PEN, as does the Fujifilm X-T30 III. The Sony A6400 may be a very old design now, but it's still in Sony's current mirrorless lineup and its body-only priced is in line with the PEN.

Resolution (line widths/picture height):

The PEN and the Nikon Zfc have pretty much the same megapixel count, and though the OM System camera has a smaller sensor than the Nikon it actually generates slightly sharper images at higher ISOs. It's surprising how close the PEN comes to matching the 24MP and 26MP cameras from Sony and Fujifilm when it comes to resolving fine detail.

Dynamic range (EV):

Dynamic range is a measure of a camera's ability to record extreme brightness ranges and still retain detail in the brightest and darkest parts of the scene. It's measured in EV (exposure values, or 'stops').

At low ISOs the PEN leads the pack for dynamic range, though it can't quite match the Nikon and Fujifilm cameras when you push past ISO800.

Signal to noise ratio (decibels):

This test compares the amount of random noise generated by the camera at different ISO settings as a proportion of the actual image information (the 'signal'). Higher values are better and we expect to see the signal to ratio fall as the ISO is increased.

The PEN ties with the Sony A6400 for noise levels at low ISOs, but demonstrates superior noise control at high sensitivities. But the X-T30 III's X-Trans 4 sensor is in a class of its own when it comes to low noise levels.

OM System PEN: Verdict

I've been waiting half a decade for this camera; it's the first new member of the PEN family since the E-P7 launched way back in 2021 (which, incidentally, was also the first camera released after OM System splintered off from Olympus).

Some will opine that the OM System PEN isn't a PEN-F II. And I hear that, because few people wanted a PEN-F II more than me. But I'll be absolutely honest – this camera pretty much is a PEN-F II in everything but name.

The image quality is better. The stabilization is better. The autofocus is leagues better. The video, while limited, is also way better. It's IPX1 weather-sealed. And it's stuffed to the gills with clever computational features.

Heck, it's arguably better looking, too – though I'm sure plenty of people will pick a fight with me over that one.

Truthfully? There is now precisely zero reason for me to pick up my PEN-F. This new PEN does everything the F could, just bigger, better, more.

In terms of function, this camera feels a lot like the OM-5 Mark II – though I'd argue that the PEN is actually better thanks to the addition of the Profile Control switch and especially subject detection autofocus (which was the only real weakness of the OM-5, though it does boasts slightly better sealing).

However, as much as I'm inclined to compare it to other OM offerings, my biggest takeaway is actually how the OM System PEN compares to the Panasonic Lumix L10. And I should preface this by saying that I love shooting with the L10.

But the PEN is smaller and lighter. It's weather-sealed. It has IBIS. It's got dual exposure dials. In other words, it ticks all the boxes that the L10 missed – and of course, you can also change the lenses. Sure, the L10 absolutely annihilates it for video, but let's be real – nobody is buying the Lumix primarily for video, and the same is true of the PEN.

I would argue that anyone considering the L10 would be better off (quite literally, where cash is concerned) opting for the PEN. Not only does it offer acres more creative capacity, you'll also struggle to outgrow it – unlike the Lumix, which will leave you wanting the moment you fancy trying macro or telephoto photography.

The OM System PEN is the best bang-for-buck body on the market (not to mention one of, if not the, best-looking) and without a doubt the best everyday carry camera available for photography purists.

The big three camera market leaders are Canon, Nikon, and Sony. Now, fresh sales numbers from major Japanese retailer Kitamura are in, and one global player accounts for 50% of the Top 10 best-selling cameras in August 2026, while one brand is nowhere to be found.

According to Kitamura, Sony takes 5 out of the Top 10 spots. Nikon didn't make the ranking with a single camera.

At No.1 sits the Sony A7C II, "recommended for users who want to carry a full-frame camera with them at all times and don't want to compromise on performance," as Kitamura explains. Right behind is Sony's A6700 in No.2, followed by the A7 IV. Sony's latest full-frame release, the A7 V, takes No.6 and the ZV-E10 II comes ninth.

Canon has two models: the Canon EOS R6 Mark II and Canon EOS R6 Mark III, placed fourth and tenth.

OM System and Fujifilm fill the remaining three spots in the sales ranking. The OM System OM-5 Mark II 12-45mm f/4 Pro Lens Kit comes fifth; the OM System OM-1 Mark II is seventh, and the Fujifilm X-M5 XC15-45mm Lens Kit is eighth.

Kitamura's 10 best-selling cameras, August 2026

1. Sony A7C II
2. Sony A6700 High-Magnification Zoom Lens Kit
3. Sony A7 IV Zoom Lens Kit
4. Canon EOS R6 Mark II
5. OM System OM-5 Mark II 12-45mm f/4 Pro Lens Kit
6. Sony A7 V
7. OM System OM-1 Mark II
8. Fujifilm X-M5 XC15-45mm Lens Kit
9. Sony ZV-E10 II Power Zoom Lens Kit
10. Canon EOS R6 Mark III

Sony's chart-topping cameras

No.1 Sony A7C II
Kitamura says, "The successor to the A7C, which debuted as the world's smallest and lightest full-frame mirrorless camera. Packed with the latest features into a compact body, it delivers performance that exceeds its appearance."

No.2 Sony A6700
"This kit includes the A6700 camera and the high-magnification zoom lens "E 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 OSS".

"Despite its compact size, this lens can zoom up to the equivalent of 202.5mm, allowing you to shoot a wide range of subjects, including landscapes, snapshots, flowers, animals, and sports, all with just this one lens," explains Kitamura.

No. 3 Sony A7 IV
Kitamura says, "This camera is Sony's most standard full-frame mirrorless camera. With high-precision real-time tracking, it keeps track of your subject, ensuring you never miss a moment for both still images and videos."

No.6 Sony A7 V
"The A7 series has finally reached its 5th generation.

"By adopting a newly integrated partial-stacked sensor and the next-generation image processing engine "BIONZ XR2," it achieves highly accurate AI subject recognition and blackout-free continuous shooting at up to approximately 30 frames per second.

"It is a high-performance camera that is hard to believe is a basic model," explains Kitamura"

No.9 Sony ZV-E10 II
Kitamura says, "This is the successor to the ZV-E10, which has gained popularity as a video camera for shooting vlogs and YouTube videos.

"It features the same BIONZ XR image processing engine as higher-end models, resulting in improved video capabilities and autofocus performance. It's a recommended camera for anyone who wants to shoot cinematic videos."

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In 1967, Olympus (now OM System) unleashed its Trip 35 on an unsuspecting world. It was a simple, compact point-and-shoot camera with an absolutely stellar 40mm f/2.8 lens, programmed autoexposure and a selenium exposure meter.

As the name implies, it was intended for those who wanted a simple, easy-to-use, compact camera for vacations. Though nothing about it was revolutionary, it shaped a generation – and it ended its lengthy production run in 1984 with over 10 million Trip 35s sold!

It all started back in 1956, when a young Yoshihisa Maitani (1933–2009) joined Olympus fresh out of university.

After spending a couple of years rotating through all the firm’s departments, learning the company's manufacturing processes, he was given a challenging assignment: design a camera that could retail for just ¥6,000 (about $17 / £6 / AU£7 8s 10d at the time), at a time when Olympus's least expensive camera cost more than triple that amount.

To meet that target, Maitani rethought camera design from the ground up, choosing the half-frame format (18 x 24mm) that produced 72 exposures on a standard 36-exposure roll of 35mm film.

He insisted on a high-quality, 4-element (Tessar-style) 28mm f/3.5 lens despite the low price. And he simplified the camera's mechanism dramatically, reducing the number of gears and using a thumbwheel film advance instead of a more expensive rapid-wind lever.

The result was the original Olympus PEN, introduced in 1959 when Maitani was just 26 years old. It was inexpensive, compact enough to fit in a jacket pocket, and capable of image quality comparable to much larger and more expensive cameras.

The Pen became an enormous success and established the design philosophy that Maitani followed throughout his career: small size without compromising photographic performance. That philosophy enabled him to design many of Olympus' most famous cameras.

The PEN was followed in 1962 by the PEN EE (for “Electric Eye”), which used a circular selenium meter cell around the lens (so exposure compensation when using filters would be automatic) and a simple, programmed autoexposure system. The lens was the same Tessar-type, fixed-focus Zuiko lens.

The PEN EE-S arrived in 1963 and was identical to the EE, except that it added zone focusing. In the end, many more PEN models were produced between 1959 and 1983. It was a remarkable 24-year run and, in all, some 17 million were made!

In the mid-1960s Olympus saw a growing demand for a compact full-frame (24 x 36mm) camera that was as easy to use as the PEN series. Which brings us to the Trip 35, introduced in 1967, where Maitani took the experience gained with the PEN and applied it to a full-frame, 35mm camera.

Again Maitani insisted on a top-quality lens, still a Tessar-inspired design but a faster 40mm f/2.8 Zuiko topic. This time the lens was not just good, but astounding given the camera’s price.

The Trip had the trademark Maitani look, with simple controls, and as with the PEN-EE it had a circular Selenium photocell around the lens.

(This arrangement was pioneered by the little-known “Lord Martian” of 1960; though Canon’s Canonet, which came a year later, is often thought of as the first with the design.)

The Trip 35 featured fully automatic, program exposure control and a simple, but effective, zone focusing system marked with four pictograms: the solo subject, two subjects, group and mountain symbols corresponded to approximately 3ft / 1m, 5ft / 1.5m, 13ft / 4m and infinity.

Unlike many later compacts, the Trip 35 was built largely of metal yet weighed just 390g (roughly 14oz). It was replete with both a hot shoe and a PC flash socket, while the exposure system handled films from ASA (now ISO)25 to 400, though a few early examples handled only 25-200. Like the PEN series, the Trip 35 did not require a battery.

This simplicity made it ideal for beginners while delivering negatives that rivalled those from much more expensive cameras, thanks to its very impressive lens. Thus it was often a constant companion for many more experienced photographers.

The Trip 35 remained in production from 1967 to 1984, a remarkable 17-year run. In that time, between 5.4 and 5.6 million Trip 35 cameras were made.

(The larger, 10 million camera number mentioned earlier – and often quoted by Olympus / OM System – included some later, plastic-bodied variants that also bore the “Trip” name.)

While there were some 17 million PEN cameras made, that number was divided among 19 models. The 5.4 to 5.6 million number was for just the original Trip 35 model alone, making it one of the world’s most successful compact film cameras ever.

Read more of David Young's ongoing series on classic cameras, as well as his book A Brief History of Photography.

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The secret is out: in an abnormally revealing teaser, OM System has revealed that a new compact, retro mirrorless camera is coming on September 09. But while the teaser has longtime fans hoping for a revival of the beloved PEN F series, the upcoming launch comes at a time when reports suggest the company’s mirrorless sales have dropped.

In a teaser revealed earlier this week, OM System shared a glimpse of the back and top sections of what looks like a retro, compact mirrorless camera. The first teaser revealed far more than most, without using the usual tactic to cast the camera in shadow. The rangefinder-style viewfinder had many fans hoping the camera is a refresh of the long-requested PEN series.

Then, a second teaser seemed to hint at a PEN legacy even more, displaying the 1959 Olympus PEN and the 2009 PEN E-P1 (the brand’s first digital mirrorless).

The teased camera will be the brand’s first major camera launch of 2026, as the company hasn’t launched a new model outside of the specialized OM-3 Astro and OM-1 Mark II Infrared. While it’s not unusual for OM System to launch only one camera a year, the teaser comes as the company is facing a sales slump.

OM System isn’t a publicly traded company, so unlike Canon, Nikon, Sony and Fujifilm, there’s no publicly available insight on the company’s sales and profits. But a recent report in Japan suggests that the company’s camera sales have dipped by 10,000 compared to last year, with an operating profit in the red to the tune of -¥1.6 billion – about -$9.9 million / -£7.4 million / -AU$13.9 million.

That echoes an earlier industry report ranking Japan’s top camera brands by the number of cameras shipped, which also said that OM System shipped 150,000 cameras, a drop of about 10,000 compared to the year before. That list showed Ricoh overtaking OM System, but more due to Ricoh’s sales numbers tripling, likely due to the popularity of the Ricoh GR IV series.

OM System has used a 20MP sensor on its Micro Four Thirds line since 2016, moving through two sensor variants with the same resolution in the past decade. While OM System says sensor development is ongoing, the company has focused on building rugged, outdoor cameras taking advantage of the Micro Four Thirds' more compact designs, well-loved stabilization system, and the brand’s computational photography prowess.

If the teased camera is in fact a refresh of the PEN line, I can see such a camera boosting the brand’s camera sales, regardless of whether or not the upcoming launch still uses a 20MP sensor. The PEN series is well loved, yet the last time the company launched a PEN with worldwide availability was still in the company’s Olympus days, back in 2020. (The Olympus PEN E-P7 launched in 2021, but was limited to Asia and Europe.)

Regardless, I think OM System fans are eagerly awaiting whatever’s next on September 09.

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UPDATE: OM System Japan has dropped a second teaser for its new PEN camera, due to launch on September 09.

This time there is less focus on the new camera itself, as it remains entirely in shadow (unlike the original teaser, which gives us a great look at the body). Instead, it positions the new product as a new chapter in the history of the PEN lineup.

First it shows the original Olympus PEN half-frame film camera from 1959, then the Olympus PEN E-P1 from 2009 – which was the company's first ever mirrorless camera. Finally, it shows the outline of the new camera – which, as I discuss below, certainly looks like a PEN-F II. Or maybe a PEN E-P5. Or maybe something new altogether… 

ORIGINAL STORY: Has the day finally come? OM System has just dropped a teaser video for a new camera – and it sure as sugar looks like it could be a successor to the iconic Olympus PEN-F.

"Stay tuned. Something new is coming" states the text on the video (which I've embedded below) announcing a reveal on September 09. Unlike a lot of teasers, we get a surprisingly good look at the camera – which, as you can see, boasts the rangefinder-style silhouette of the manufacturer's PEN cameras (rather than the SLR-style shape of the OM series).

And I may be biased, so you tell me – take a look at the camera shown in the teaser next to three of my PEN cameras: the original Olympus PEN-F film camera, the PEN-F digital camera and the Olympus PEN E-P7, which was the last PEN camera to hit the market:

As you can see, the new camera that OM is teasing bears the same signature two-tier top plate as the PEN-F digital. Most PEN models have had a similar design that homages the original film PENs, but as you can see with the PEN E-P7 – it has been much more subtle, with only the PEN-F digital having a stepdown that's anywhere near as pronounced as we see in the teaser.

Other signposts that we might be looking at a PEN-F II are the fact that the teaser camera has an electronic viewfinder (EVF). Famously, the PEN-F digital was the only camera in the product line that possessed an EVF.

Taking a look at the power switch, I'll grant you, it looks a lot more like the design found on the EP-7 (and it's on the same side, too). However, if you look at the second (rear) dial, you'll note that the E-P7 had both exposure dials on the top plate while the PEN-F digital had the rear dial positioned essentially on the back of the camera – in the same position seen on the teaser.

Finally, the E-P7 has a pop-up flash on the left shoulder and a tilt-only screen. As you can see, the teaser camera – like the PEN-F digital – has no pop-up flash and has a hinged screen that indicates a fully articulating affair.

So, does all this mean that we're looking at an OM System PEN-F II? Well, not necessarily.

While this is certainly a PEN camera, it's entirely possible that this is an evolution of the EP series or even a new line altogether. The old rules, under the Olympus regime, don't necessarily apply any more – so the fact that it has an EVF and articulating screen don't necessarily mean that it's a PEN-F.

But then, by the same token, the old Olympus missive that the PEN-F had to be a premium camera milled from a single ingot of aluminum – which made it a pricey camera that therefore sold under expectations – don't necessarily apply either. This can be a PEN-F that isn't made of aluminum and doesn't carry a high manufacturing cost.

If the Lumix L10 has taught us anything, it's that there is still a huge appetite for a pretty-looking Micro Four Thirds camera – which this new PEN, whatever its designation, is guaranteed to be. But it also has to have modern specs to match – and that's a department where OM System, which is still trotting out long-in-the-tooth 20MP sensors and underwhelming video specs, faces the biggest challenge.

OM has previously told me that every lens it launches will be weather-sealed, because it has styled itself as an outdoor brand. Thus, I expect this camera to be similarly sealed – and it would be the first PEN to possess the feature.

This might also explain what looks to be the OM System M.Zuiko 17mm f/1.8 II on the front of the camera in the teaser video. That's a perfect outdoor 35mm equivalent lens for street photography, so it would make sense, though it does pour cold water on hopes for a new pancake lens (like an upgraded version of the M.Zuiko 14-42mm EZ Pancake that doesn't suffer a fatal cable issue).

Whatever it is, we've only got a couple of weeks to wait until OM reveals what this new camera is, does and looks like. You can bet I'll be right there to tell you all about it – quite possibly with my credit card in hand…

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Take a look at the best Olympus / OM System cameras along with the best Olympus / OM System lenses to pair with them.

The leading camera brands have seen another shakeup in rankings, according to a report by Japan’s largest financial newspaper. Retro-camera maker Fujifilm’s viral fame has propelled the company into third place, dropping longstanding Nikon out of the top three.

The insight comes from the Nikkei Industry Map 2027, an annual report coming from the region’s largest financial media outlet, analyzed and shared by Digital Camera Life. The report examines Japan’s camera makers and ranks each brand by the number of cameras shipped.

Canon continues to lead in terms of market share and has strengthened that lead by adding nearly a million camera shipments compared to 2024’s data. That leaves Canon with a 45.7% share – that means nearly half of all digital cameras shipped from Japan bear the Canon name.

That’s followed by Sony, which has now held the number two spot for seven years, thanks to the rise of the Alpha mirrorless series. Sony saw slight growth from 2024’s numbers, moving from 2.33 million cameras shipped to 2.42 million.

But the real shakeup comes in third place: Fujifilm. Nikon has held the third spot since the Sony Alpha series pushed the company down to third in 2019. Nikon’s drop to fourth place is affected somewhat by lower sales – dropping from 960,000 to 880,000 – but Nikon would have held onto the third place spot if Fujifilm hadn’t also seriously jumped up in sales at the same time.

The report suggests that Fujifilm shipped 1.16 million cameras in 2025, up from 740,000 the year before. The data gives concrete insight into Fujifilm’s viral fame.

Fujifilm, known largely for its retro-inspired cameras and color science, started seeing accelerated growth after the X100VI went viral, a two-year-old camera that is still in such demand that it’s hard to find in stock without a wait list.

The X100 series' success has bled into other models, like its mirrorless sibling the Fujifilm X-E5, while more budget-friendly models like the X-M5 and X-T30 III have also sold well for the brand.

Neither Nikon nor Fujifilm has announced a new mirrorless camera yet in 2026.

Although Nikon revised its 2026 projections for slightly lower sales during the last investor report, the company says it expects the interchangeable lens market to remain solid over the medium and long term.

While the numbers drop Nikon out of the top three, that’s not the only unusual shakeup. Ricoh has surpassed OM System, moving from seventh to sixth, behind Panasonic. The reason? Ricoh’s camera shipments tripled over the last year.

While the report doesn’t specifically detail how many of each camera were shipped, Ricoh’s growth is likely due to the success of the Ricoh GR IV series.

The pocketable camera that packs an APS-C sensor has long been a popular option, but Ricoh’s refresh of the series last August and the growth of the compact camera segment is likely giving the brand a significant boost.

That puts OM System in seventh place, the last on the rankings, with 150,000 cameras shipped, which is about 10,000 less than the year before.

Panasonic hasn’t changed rank, in the fifth-place spot, but the numbers show a steep growth from 280,000 cameras to 430,000.

While a majority of the largest camera-makers are based in Japan, the Nikkei report’s regional focus means that brands like Leica (Germany) and Hasselblad (Sweden) aren’t tallied and ranked in the report.

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Browse cameras from your favorite brand – these are the best Canon cameras, the best Sony cameras, the best Fujifilm cameras, the best Panasonic cameras, and the best OM System cameras. Or, compare the popular Ricoh GR series options.

Japan's sales numbers give us a great indicator of broader camera-buying trends, but the six-month figures are arguably more revealing than the monthly charts.

A new launch promotion can push a camera to number one for a month, but six months of sales give us a better idea of which models are consistently popular – and which could end the year as Japan's best-selling camera.

Major retail aggregator BCN+R has now published its list of the best-selling mirrorless cameras for the first half of 2026. And while we've seen some extraordinary releases this year, the top spot goes to an APS-C camera that was released in March 2023 – and Sony's record-breaking A7 V only makes eighth place.

The Canon EOS R50 triumphs at number one. Available for just $729 / £649 and despite being more than three years old, it continues to prove hugely popular.

Featuring a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, full-width 4K video and a wealth of social media-friendly shooting modes, it makes a great choice for beginner photographers, enthusiasts and content creators.

BCN's Top 10 best-selling mirrorless cameras, First half of 2026

1. Canon EOS R50
2. Sony ZV-E10 II
3. Canon EOS R10
4. Sony ZV-E10
5. Sony A6400
6. Nikon Z50 II
7. Fujifilm X-T30 III
8. Sony A7 V
9. Olympus PEN E-P7
10. Nikon Z50

Eight of the top ten cameras are APS-C, with one Micro Four Thirds camera at number nine – the Sony A7 C is the only full-frame camera on the list.

That suggests that photographers in Japan are still strongly drawn to cameras that are relatively compact, affordable and easy to use – rather than simply buying the newest or most expensive technology.

BCN's data is based on sales units, rather than revenue, and covers major electronics retailers and online stores in Japan.

Japan's #1: Canon EOS R50

The Canon EOS R50 combines a 24.2MP APS-C sensor with a compact body, interchangeable lenses and beginner-friendly controls, making it a natural upgrade for someone moving beyond a camera phone or compact camera.

But it's also unusually well-suited to modern content creation, featuring non-classic shooting modes. The EOS R50 can record vertical video via an orientation sensor that embeds rotation data. It also includes display aspect markers to help creators frame footage for different social platforms.

There's even a dedicated Movie for Close-up Demos mode, designed to make it easier to show products close to the camera – a particularly useful feature for product reviews and demonstrations on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.

Its compact size and all-around make it one of the best travel cameras, while its affordable price and beginner-friendly design continue the Canon EOS M50's legacy as one of the best cameras for vlogging.

Record-breaking Sony only makes 8th place

Sony's latest full-frame hybrid camera launched in December 2025 and quickly became one of the most talked-about new cameras in Japan, dominating sales charts for months across different Japanese retailers.

The Sony A7 V offers a 33MP full-frame sensor, fast continuous shooting, AI-powered subject recognition, strong video capabilities, and the kind of performance aimed at serious enthusiasts and professionals.

Yet it only ranks eighth in BCN's first-half sales data. Which doesn't mean that the A7 V isn't popular; the important distinction is that BCN is ranking units sold.

A high-end full-frame camera costing several times more than an entry-level APS-C model doesn't need to sell anywhere near as many units to generate substantial revenue.

And that's where the EOS R50 has an obvious advantage. At around $729 / £649, the Canon is far more accessible than the A7 V, which is priced around $2,898 / £2,799.

For someone buying their first interchangeable-lens camera, the R50 offers plenty of image quality and flexibility without requiring a huge investment in the camera body.

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The latest cameras often come with anything but an affordable price tag, which is one reason buying used remains so popular. New data from Japanese camera marketplace Minna Camera shows that demand for some older cameras is pushing their used prices higher.

Of the 32 models with a clear price movement during the first half of 2026, 28 increased in price – around 88%. The biggest rise was a striking 24.1%, while even the tenth-placed camera increased by 7.8%.

The top spot goes to a discontinued DSLR released in 2016, the Nikon D5600, while the rest of the top 10 is made up of a trio of compacts and twice as many mirrorless cameras. The second-biggest rise came from the Sony A7 IV, which increased by 11.9%, while the Ricoh GR III followed at 10.9%

Top 10 cameras that rose most in price at Minna Cameras (H1 2026)*

*Used cameras price: Q1 avg → Q2 avg; discontinuation status and approx. used prices in USD and GBP added by Digital Camera World.

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Photography can get expensive fast – but it doesn't have to be.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV stands out as DCW's best affordable retro camera, and it's also packed with beginner-friendly features.

Now, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV in silver is just £649 at Wex. Included in this deal is the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 45mm f/1.8 in black for FREE.

That means you're getting a compact, powerful camera, while saving £130.99 off the £779 RRP, and a fast prime lens on top that's worth £349.

• The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV + FREE Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 45mm f/1.8 lens is also available in black for just £679 at Wex

The best cheap retro & best features beginner camera

Beautifully designed and packed with modern features, the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is ideal if you value creativity and classic styling.

Its 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, paired with 5-axis in-body stabilization, produces remarkably sharp results even when shooting challenging low-light situations handheld.

The tilting touchscreen and tactile dials encourage manual experimentation, and the high range of compatible lenses opens up endless photographic possibilities. It's a superb choice if you want a lightweight, versatile tool for everyday shooting.

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A lightweight 130g prime has just received a free firmware update that promises faster autofocus (AF) and fixes an issue that could prevent continuous AF from working correctly during video recording on some camera models.

The SG-Image AF 25mm f/1.8 Micro Four Thirds (MFT) gets firmware Ver. 1.1, with the update specifically targeting AF performance. While the lens is available in several mounts, including Sony E, Fujifilm X, and Nikon Z, this particular update is for the MFT version.

For photographers and videographers using the compact budget prime, the update should make focusing more responsive while addressing a potentially frustrating AF-C issue when shooting video.

New firmware Ver. 1.1

SG-image AF 25mm f/1.8 Micro Four Thirds
Ver. 1.1 – Download link

Improvements
- Improved AF (autofocus) speed
- Fixed an issue where continuous autofocus (AF-C) might not function correctly during video recording on some models

SG-Image on how to update your lens
1) Download it to your computer
2) Link your lens to your computer through the USB-C port on its side, and it should show on your computer as "SG-image"
3) Copy and paste the firmware from your computer to your lens, and that's it

There is a txt file on the lens that shows the firmware version and its release date. It should show the firmware version you upgraded it to.

Pro Advice

If you caught Episode 4 of Bokeh Face: Digital Camera World podcast, above, we discussed the best time to install firmware updates, why they matter, and what issues they can cause. It's a helpful listen if you're unsure when – or whenever – you should update.

It's smart to wait a week or two after release to see if any users hit snags. In the past, brands have had a few hiccups with major updates – for instance, introducing memory-setting bugs or minor interface glitches before being reissued.

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Sony’s new every-genre 25x bridge camera hasn’t even begun shipping yet, but the Sony RX10 V has already clawed its way up to the top of best-seller lists. The new RX10 V tops US retailer B&H’s list of top trending cameras for July.

The Sony RX10 V’s early rise to the top likely doesn’t come as a surprise for fans of the format – many were disappointed when Sony discontinued the RX10 IV. But then in July, Sony annoucened it’s sucecssor, adding a large-sensor option to the bridge camera format that’s popular for photographers who want a long reach without a mirrorless camera.

While compact cameras are seeing a resurgence in trends, the bridge-style RX10 V feels more like a small DSLR – but it’s considerably more compact than carrying a 24mm, 600mm and macro mirrorless lenses.

The RX10 V’s dominance before it begins shipping in early August suggests a steep number of pre-orders, suggesting the price jump compared to the early model wasn’t enough to dissuade fans of the large sensor super zoom.

Screen-free cameras are rising in trends

But what’s surprising are the cameras that follow the RX10 V on B&H’s trending list. The RX10 V is followed by the Camp Snap CS-Pro, an affordable retro compact camera with a screen-free design that caters to digital minimalists, and the odd little Godox C100 Mini, a low-fi camera that looks more like an instant film frame than a traditional camera.

The rise of the Camp Snap CS-Pro hints at the growing craving for capturing memories without the distraction of a smartphone screen. The CS-Pro comes from the company that originally launched as a way for kids to take a camera to screen-free summer camps, but it feels like a far more grown-up version than the original.

I used the CS-Pro when I gave up screened cameras for nearly two weeks, and the camera delivers an ideal balance between features and simplicity. The 16MP camera has plenty of resolution, but uses a lens that still gives the images the feel of disposable film photos, particularly when using the built-in filter dial. A key selling point? The CS-Pro retails for just $99 / £90 / AU$153 / CA$141.

The CS-Pro is followed by one of the more unusual camera launches to come in 2026: The Godox C100 Mini. Like the CS-Pro, the C100 doesn’t have an LCD screen, but Godox’s first camera is essentially an oversized viewfinder used for taking snapshots.

While the C100 doesn’t look like a typical camera, Godox’s appearance on the best-seller list suggests the camera’s unusual design is more quirky than strange. The C100’s resolution is just 2MP, putting the camera firmly in the low-fi category – but that’s offset by a $45 / £39 price.

The C100 even doubles as a light meter for film photographers. DCW’s James Artius got his hands on one and aptly called it “ludicrously good fun.”

Just one mirrorless sits on the overall July trending list at B&H

The C100 and CS-Pro aren’t the only surprises on the list – the trending list for all camera categories oddly only includes one mirrorless camera for July, the new Sony A7R VI that mixes the A7R-series’ high resolution with a snappy 30 fps burst speed. The Kodak Charmera that has been part of an overwhelming number of B&H’s trending lists since its launch isn’t on the overall list (though it does slide in on the list of trending compact cameras).

I’m not at all surprised to see the OM System Tough TG-7 on the list either – while there are lots of waterproof compact cameras, the TG-7 uses a bright aperture and has a fantastic macro mode. The TG-7 is my favorite beach camera, so it makes sense that this 2023 launch would pop back up on a trending list mid-summer.

The remainder of the list is made up of longstanding compact camera favorites, including two Canon PowerShots, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A budget point-and-shoot, and the advanced Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III. The RX10 V’s compact sibling, the pocketable Sony RX100 VII with 8x zoom, also makes the July trending list.

July’s Top Trending cameras at B&H

• Sony RX10 V
• Camp Snap CS-Pro
• Godox C100 Mini Camera
• Sony A7R VI
• OM System Tough TG-7
• Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
• Sony RX100 VII
• PowerShot G7 X Mark III

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Last time we looked at the compact camera rankings from Japanese retailer Yodobashi, we saw a brand-new release skyrocketing to No.1. Panasonic's newest premium compact, the Lumix L10, reached the top position just 12 days after its launch. Now, the retailer reports that the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is the new No.1 compact, despite the fact that it was released nearly seven years ago.

Famously hard to find in stock, the G7 X Mark III can now command second-hand prices higher than its original retail price of $879.99 / £899.99. For example, it's currently out of stock at US retailer B&H, while used examples are listed on MPB for around $1,499.

While there's no sign of the Lumix L10 in the first half of July 2026 rankings, the best waterproof camera returns: the OM System Tough TG-7. The rankings reflect just how diverse the compact camera market has become, but product shortages remain significant, with the top three compact cameras currently on backorder at Yodobashi.com.

Yodobashi's top selling compacts, 1st Half Jul 2026

1. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III | Black | Silver (backordered)
2. Canon PowerShot SX740 HS / Lite | Silver | Black (backordered)
3. Fujifilm X100VI | Silver | Black (backordered)
4. Panasonic Lumix TZ99 / ZS99 | Black | White
5. Sony ZV-1 II | Black | White
6. Canon IXY 650 / Powershot Elph 360 HS A / Ixus 285 HS A | Black | Silver
7. Panasonic Lumix TX3 / ZS300 / TZ300 | Black | Graphite Silver
8. Leica Q3 43
9. Kodak Pixpro C1 | Brown | Black
10. OM System Tough TG-7 | Red | Black

"Yodobashi Camera Best Sellers Top Ten" announces the best-selling rankings from the shopping site "Yodobashi.com" and all 24 Yodobashi Camera stores nationwide.

Japan's champion: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III 

The Canon G7 X series has long rivalled Sony's RX100 line, but its appeal is less about winning the spec sheet and more about portability, image quality and ease of use.

The G7 Mark III combines a 1-inch sensor with a compact body and straightforward controls, making it an appealing alternative to both smartphones and larger mirrorless or DSLR cameras.

That balance has helped the G7 X become something of a cult camera. These cameras prove that you don't always need the latest specs – just tools that get out of the way and let you create.

Why is the Canon G7 X Mark III so expensive second-hand?

The G7 X Mark III's popularity has created an at-first-glance unusual situation for an older camera: used prices can now be higher than its original retail price.

But the G7 X Mark III isn't alone in benefiting from the renewed interest in older compacts.

Social media has helped fuel a point-and-shoot revival, with creators and photographers celebrating cameras that offer a different look and shooting experience from a smartphone.

The G7 X Mark III has become one of the standout examples of that trend.

With the camera now difficult to find in stock, that popularity has collided with limited supply – pushing second-hand prices well above what you'd normally expect from a camera release in 2019.

Back after three month: OM System Tough TG-7

The other notable camera in Yodobashi's latest rankings is the OM System Tough TG-7, which re-enters the Top 10 at No.10 after a three-month absence.

Unlike the G7 X Mark III, the TG-7 is built for adventure. It's waterproof, shockproof and dustproof, with a 4x zoom, RAW shooting, 4K video and useful macro mode.

It will be interesting to see if the G7 X Mark III can defend its No.1 spot, and whether the Panasonic Lumix L10 returns to the chart.

For now, though, the G7 X Mark III shows that newer doesn't always mean more desirable – especially when it comes to the point-and-shoot revival.

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Photographers are getting tired of carrying around heavy full-frame cameras, if the latest numbers from Japan are any indication. The latest data from retail tracker BCN+R for trending mirrorless cameras in June 2026 is almost entirely made up of cameras known for smaller designs – and more affordable prices.

The monthly data also featured a camera that made the top ten for the first time, despite launching a year ago: The OM System OM-5 Mark II. The Micro Four Thirds mirrorless slid into 8th place in the monthly rankings.

The OM System OM-5 Mark II is a compact mirrorless body built for the outdoors with IP53 weather-sealing. Part of the lure of the camera is also the stabilization system, which means fewer shots that need a tripod.

The OM-5 Mark II, however, is far from the only smaller-bodied mirrorless on the list. In fact, nine out of the top ten cameras have cropped sensors (APS-C or Micro Four Thirds) and only one is a full-frame model.

According to BCN+R, these were the top mirrorless cameras in Japan in June 2026:

1. Canon EOS R50
2. Sony ZV-E10 II
3. Canon EOS R10
4. Sony ZV-E10
5. Sony A6400
6. Sony A7 V
7. Fujifilm X-T30 III
8. OM System OM-5 Mark II
9. Fujifilm X-M5
10. Nikon Z50 II

That’s a list packed almost entirely with APS-C bodies – though it’s worth noting that the data from BCN+R often doesn’t match up directly with major Japanese camera stores like Map Camera. BCN+R only tracks around 40 percent of electronics sales in Japan, and much of the data comes from general tech stores rather than retailers geared specifically for serious photographers, which tend to lead more towards advanced models than BCN+R’s lists.

Regardless, the list is an interesting look at the latest mirrorless trends in Japan. Of course, crop sensor cameras also tend to be more affordable than their full frame counterparts, so beyond the smaller size, the format also tends to fit into more beginner budgets.

The Sony A7 V is the lone full-frame model on the list, a mirrorless camera that has topped charts across several sources and multiple regions since its launch. The A7 V mixes a full-frame sensor with blackout-free 30 fps shooting and smarter autofocus.

But, the Sony name dominates the list. Both of Sony’s APS-C video mirrorless models, the ZV-E10 and ZV-E10 II made the list, along with the more stills-focused crop sensor, the Sony A6400.

The Canon EOS R50 tops the list; however, a crop-sensor beginner camera with a low price point that has proved exceptionally popular, driving the R50 to numerous bestseller lists since launching in early 2023.

The Canon EOS R10 is still a crop-sensor camera, but is more advanced than the R50 with an autofocus system and burst speeds geared towards fast action.

Fujifilm similarly had two models make the top ten – and both fall on the more affordable end of the brand’s X-series. The X-T30 III is a budget model that still has Fujifilm’s retro looks and a viewfinder, where the X-M5 is Fujifilm’s cheapest, smallest current mirrorless body, but it lacks a viewfinder and is more geared towards vlogging.

Sliding into the tenth-place spot is the Nikon Z50 II, a popular ASP-C model that brings some of Nikon’s high-end speed and autofocus into a more affordable crop-sensor body.

The sales data from general retailers tends to lean more towards affordable beginner models than photo specialty stores. From Yodobashi in Japan, for example, the latest trends list is led by pricey models like the Hasselblad X2D II 100C; but cameras like the A7 V, X-M5, X-T30 II, Z50 II, R50, and ZV-E10 II make both lists.

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If you're searching for a lightweight, compact travel camera to capture every moment of your adventures, check out these four deals – some bundled with a versatile lens or more that let you save up to $139.89 at B&H and Adorama.

The Sony A6700 + 11mm f/1.8 Basic Bundle is now just $2,046 (+ free accessories) at B&H – you save $139.89 from the original price of $2,185.89.

The Fujifilm X-S20 Black Bundle is now just $1,499 at Adorama – you save $56.94 from the original price of $1,555.94.

The OM System Tough TG-7 in black is now just $549.99 at B&H – you save $100 from the original price of $649.99.

The Pentax WG-8 in green is now just $426.95 at Adorama – you save $50 from the original price of $476.95.

Sony A6700

Most versatile

The Sony A6700 compact mirrorless camera packs serious power. It features a 26.1MP APS-C sensor, fast 11fps burst shooting, in-body image stabilization, and 4K60p video. Whether you're snapping cityscapes or wildlife on safari, it's ready to deliver stunning photos and smooth video.

Sony improved the autofocus and button layout, making it easier to use on the go – even if the body is still pretty compact. You can pair it with a huge range of Sony E-mount lenses – or third-party options – to suit whatever trip you're on.

Fujifilm X-S20

Best hybrid

The Fujifilm X-S20 is ideal if you are creating both photos and videos. It's a compact, lightweight hybrid shooter that packs a lot, using the tried-and-true X-Trans IV sensor.

Paired with Fujifilm's famous film simulations, you give your shots that ready-to-share look straight out of the camera.

The new X-Processor 5 steps up autofocus with smart subject recognition and tracking. It offers 6K video with full sensor use, plus advanced codecs and color grading options. The fully articulating screen is perfect if you're a vlogger.

OM System Tough TG-7

Best waterproof

With the OM System Tough TG-7, you never have to worry about weather or terrain. It's built to be a companion on any adventure: waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof.

Its 12MP sensor can actually capture more light where it's often dim. Plus, it shoots RAW and bursts up to 20fps – perfect for catching fast moments.

The TG-7 has a 4x zoom (approx. 25-100mm in 35mm terms) with a standout macro mode that lets you snap amazing close-ups and 4K video. It's simple, durable, and versatile – the perfect choice when you need a reliable camera that won't quit.

Pentax WG-8

Most budget-friendly

The Pentax WG-8 is built tough to survive water, dust, drops, freezing temps – you name it. It's perfect if you want a camera that's truly adventure-proof, without spending big.

With a 20MP sensor and 5x optical zoom (approx. 28-140mm in 35mm terms) it shoots decent photos and 4k video at 30fps.

It also shines in ultra-close-up shots, and it performs well underwater and in extreme conditions where other cameras might fail. It's a solid budget-friendly choice for anyone needing a tough, reliable camera for travel.

Discover more and browse the best travel cameras, best compact cameras and best point and shoot cameras

Sitting at my desk, a flash of movement outside my window caught my eye. When I looked up, my hands reflexively went for my wildlife photography gear. Right outside my cabin, a flock of cedar waxwings decided to feast on the moths, mayflies, and dragonflies right outside my window.

I’ve always loved cedar waxwings because their wings look impossibly smooth, almost plastic. But perhaps even more importantly for wildlife photography, the birds didn’t seem to mind at all at a human presence, darting right over my head to catch bugs in mid-air.

Birds are the great equalizer in wildlife photography. I can’t photograph a wild giraffe or monkey without a plane ticket. But, from the pigeons on a New York City apartment balcony to cardinals at a country bird feeder to puffins in the Arctic, birds are nearly everywhere.

Sometimes, I plan my wildlife photo hikes – which I often use as a much-needed mental health break – well in advance. I research the best spots and rearrange my schedule so that I can head out when wildlife tends to be the most active.

But other times, wildlife photography opportunities present themselves when I least expect. I’ve often longed for my wildlife gear when spotting a bird that I haven’t photographed before in a grocery store parking lot.

I can’t count the times that I wish I weren’t driving when I spotted wildlife, like the kestrel I saw scoop up a field mouse or the eagle that swooped right out of the fog towards me one morning, his wings feeling nearly as large as my windshield.

I consider myself only a hobbyist wildlife photographer (because when you turn both of your creative passions into a career, something needs to remain a sacred hobby). Thankfully, the cedar waxwings were enjoying the feast of bugs in my yard for more than an hour. That gave me the opportunity to watch, wait, and try for some action shots.

I wasn’t quite fast enough to get the birds swooping midair, but I managed to photograph a few wings poised in mid-flight, along with a few bugs clutched in beaks. A bald eagle even flew overhead while I was out photographing the cedar waxwings.

I walked back in the door, memory card bursting, and a smile plastered on my face – sometimes it’s the most unexpected photo shoots that bring the most joy.

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Despite newer flagship releases from Canon, Sony, and Nikon, one full-frame camera launched in 2023 continues to outperform far newer models in Japan's sales charts. Part of Sony's compact full-frame line, which debuted with the "world's smallest and lightest 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera", the Sony A7C II brings that same philosophy and performance to a newer generation. With built-in electronic viewfinder, in-body image stabilization and 33MP sensor, it has become one of the industry's biggest long-term success stories.

Major Japanese camera retailer Kitamura has now published its June sales rankings, with the camera once again taking the No.1 spot.

Launched nearly three years ago, the Sony A7C II has earned a reputation as a full-frame "sweet spot" camera, striking an impressive balance between performance, portability and price. Available for $2,098 / £1,799, it continues to prove that photographers don't always need the latest release to get the camera they want.

Kitamura's 10 best-selling cameras, June 2026

1. Sony A7C II
2. Canon EOS R10 + RF S 18-150mm IS STM Lens Kit
3. Fujifilm X-M5 + XC15-45mm Lens Kit
4. Sony A6700 High-Magnification Zoom Lens Kit
5. Canon EOS R50 Double Zoom Kit
6. Sony A7 V
7. Sony A7 IV Zoom Lens Kit
8. Sony ZV-E10 II Power Zoom Lens Kit
9. OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II + 12-45mm f/4 PRO Lens Kit
10. Nikon Z30 Double Zoom Kit

Lightweight design marvel

The Sony A7C II features a 33MP full-frame Exmor R sensor, AI-powered subject-detection autofocus (AF), 7-stop in-body stabilization (IBIS), and 10-bit 4:2:2 4K 60p video recording, offering serious performance for both photographers and videographers.

Even with its compact form, the A7C II retains a built-in electronic viewfinder – known as a must-have feature for many photographers.

Weighing just 514 g (1 lb 2.2 oz), it delivers full-frame image quality in a remarkably compact body that's particularly well-suited to travel photographers and hybrid creators. Despite its small size (124 x 71.1 x 63.4 mm), Sony has retained a built-in electronic viewfinder – a feature that many photographers still consider essential.

While some compact and creator-focused mirrorless cameras now rely solely on the rear LCD, the A7C II offers an eye-level shooting experience without significantly increasing its size.

Nearly three years after its launch, the A7C II still delivers everything most photographers want or need.

While camera manufacturers release dozens of new models each year, sales data continues to show older, well-balanced cameras can outperform the latest tech when they strike the right mix of price, performance and usability.

I’m a sucker for retro cameras, so I couldn’t pass up the chance to wax lyrical about the OM System / Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, which is now being sold at a temptingly low price. Both the black and silver variants have been discounted, plummeting to the tantalizing sums of just £511.43 and £550.19, respectively, with the 14-42mm slimline zoom.

The E-M10 Mark IV is an ideal first interchangeable-lens camera or an everyday beater for the commute or day trips. It is a camera we have been recommending for years as a great choice for beginners, and it is once again at a great price. Plus, I’m sure you’ll agree, it looks absolutely gorgeous! Here’s what you’re getting for your hard-earned cash…

First up, it’s worth mentioning just how small this little camera really is. It’s built around a 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, which provides a 2x crop factor. As such, MFT systems tend to feature smaller camera bodies and lenses than their APS-C and full-frame counterparts. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is no exception; the body is 383g and the lens is 91g. To put that into perspective, combined it’s a lighter setup than the Fujifilm X100VI.

As you’d expect from a camera within this price range, you get 4K 30p video – but what I do love about the E-M10 Mark IV is its in-body image stabilization, compensating for up to 4.5 stops. The camera also features Live Guide and Scene Modes that will give beginners a helping hand.

Otherwise it’s fairly standard fare, but when you consider that you’re getting a great-looking, compact, capable stills camera and kit lens from a reputable brand, for just over £500 with lens, the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is an attractive prospect. I think it’s a fantastic first, everyday, street or travel camera and would gladly use one on my daily commute.

Want a memory card to go with your purchase? Here are the best Amazon Prime Day memory card deals.

The year is already more than half over – and yet 2026 has been an unusually slow year for camera launches – so slow, in fact, that three key camera brands have yet to introduce a major camera in 2026.

The first half of the year has brought cameras like the Sony A7R VI, the surprise Panasonic Lumix LX10, the video-focused Canon EOS R6 V, the black-and-white Ricoh GR IV Monochrome, and the Leica SL3-P.

But the first half of the year has been largely quiet for Nikon, Fujifilm, and OM System. Nikon has yet to introduce a camera body in 2026. Fujifilm has launched the time-traveling Instax Evo Cinema and Instax Mini 13, but no X series cameras. OM System has introduced specialty models of existing cameras for astrophotography and infrared, but no major overhauls yet in 2026.

Even the brands that have launched new cameras this year have been a bit sporadic, with the first three months of the year unusually quiet. Has the pace of camera development slowed with longer gaps between launches, or is something else going on?

Fujifilm is in the quiet before the storm

Fujifilm has been a key player in both the retro camera and compact camera trends lately, two factors that likely led to the camera giant posting record revenue in 2025. Fujifilm has been steadily picking up momentum – so what’s with the quiet first half of 2026?

Fujifilm is in that pause between one generation and the next. Fujifilm’s X series has largely all been upgraded to the fifth generation of X-Trans sensors, with the 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR across most models and the 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HS across speed and budget-focused models.

There are some exceptions – notably the Fujifilm X-Pro3 still using a third-generation sensor despite the brand's confirmation that it hasn’t abandoned the series – but Fujifilm’s X series is largely caught up.

Fujifilm’s quiet few months are likely the quiet before the storm, before the sixth generation of X Trans sensors makes its first official appearance. And, in the meantime, the 40.2MP is no slouch.

Fujifilm tends to bring the new sensor to higher-end options like the X-H series and the single-digit X-T series first, so as a photographer with an older X-T4 still in my bag, I’m eager to see what’s next.

Nikon needs a high-end camera launch

Nikon has fewer mirrorless bodies in its lineup than Canon and Sony, so it’s not entirely unusual that the camera giant hasn’t yet blessed fans with a new camera in 2026. But, by this time last year, Nikon had introduced the Coolpix P1100 and the Z50 II, so 2026 feels off to an unusual start.

I think Nikon’s recent financial reports hint at what could be coming next for the company. Earlier this year, Nikon told investors that one of the reasons that profit is down is that the brand’s cheaper entry-level cameras, like the Z50 II and Z5 II, are selling so well.

The Z5 II was introduced in 2025, and the Z50 II at the end of 2024, so I think it’s time for Nikon to give some love to its higher-end models. I’m less confident in speculating what high-end cameras might be getting a refresh soon. The Z6 III was a 2024 launch, and the 2020 Z7 II is aging fast, but any successor would need to offer something substantially different than the highly regarded pro Z8. Z9 II rumors are also making the rounds.

Of course, I could be totally off base – the Z30 is getting up there in years, and more compact designs are trending. I’m also hoping that one of Nikon’s recent comments about “heritage-inspired design” means photographers will get more cameras like the Nikon Zf.

OM System has been quiet – but not unusually so

OM System often only has one or two major camera launches a year, so the quiet first half of 2026 isn’t unusual for the brand known for its Micro Four Thirds cameras. And, technically, the brand has launched cameras this year, but just specialized ones, including the OM-3 Astro and the OM-1 Mark II Infared.

The bigger question is what’s next for OM System. The brand's mirrorless line has been using 20MP resolution since 2016 (though in two different variants), but when I asked the company about it last year, Eiji Shirota, Head of Business at OM System, told me, “the development and evolution of a new image sensor is an ongoing effort.”

But, he also said that the company’s focus on smaller, rugged fast cameras has been working, with 60 percent of OM-5 users in North America completely new to the brand. Computational photography and a High Res Shot mode instead help the OM System to get more resolution out of its 20MP sensors.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV still carries the Olympus name nearly five years after the switch to OM System, but any upgrade would have to not eclipse the OM-5 Mark II. Other key OM System speculation? Fans have long been asking for the PEN series to return (though it's still alive and well in Japan), and with compact cameras trending, perhaps now is the time for a tiny PEN mirrorless.

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Take a look at the best Fujifilm cameras, the best Nikon cameras, or the best OM System cameras.

At the beginning of the year, I set the cat firmly among the pigeons when I claimed that I only recommend the ‘Big Three’ camera brands for serious wildlife photography: Canon, Nikon and Sony. As you can imagine, Micro Four Thirds camera (MFT) photographers were not happy.

So, Luke from OM System got in touch with me and offered to lend me some kit so I could put my money where my mouth was. Cue the arrival of the flagship OM System OM-1 Mark II and the mighty ‘Big White’ M.Zuiko 150-400mm f/4.5 TC1.25X IS Pro, as well as the M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5.0-6.3 IS and M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO. Lucky me!

Determined to put the kit through its paces, I headed off to wetland wildlife reserve WWT Slimbridge and the Hawk Conservancy Trust in a bid to photograph some of the most challenging wildlife subjects on Earth: birds. So, read on to find out why I hold my hand up and admit that I was so very, very wrong about MFT. Just don’t expect a puff piece – I’m not ready to give up my full-frame kit just yet…

Wildlife photography weight saving

MFT is renowned for the small size and light weight of its cameras and lenses. But in my review of the ‘Big White’ 150-400mm f/4.5, I called it a bit of an oxymoron. That’s because it’s a 12.4in long, 1,875g behemoth. Still, compare it to a full-frame 600mm f/4 lens and it’s a minnow. It’s also the largest MFT lens on the market, aimed squarely at sports and wildlife professionals.

The M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5.0-6.3 IS is just eight inches long and 1,102g, with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO measuring 6.3in and weighing 880g. To put that into perspective, every MFT lens on the market (even the ‘Big White’) is smaller and lighter than the Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR. And while the OM System OM-1 Mark II is very small and light for a flagship camera, it’s not so prominent that longer lenses feel unbalanced, which is a good thing in my book.

I’m no stranger to heavy kit. I’ve owned a Nikon D800, Nikon D850 and Nikon Z8, and as I get older and my back becomes more temperamental, the weight of my kit is something I’m becoming more and more aware of. Most camera gear seems manageable when you pluck it off the shelf in an air-conditioned store and wave it around for a few minutes. You’ve got to imagine yourself in blistering heat, trudging your way up a gravel track to get to that secluded hide. Or standing on a cliff-top, capturing pan after pan of soaring seabirds.

And indeed, while walking around with my OM System kit, I couldn’t quite believe that I was packing two super-telephoto and one telephoto lens, plus a flagship camera. My own personal Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR is so long, a lot of camera bags are too small for me to pack it with a camera attached. No such problem here. For hide photography I do prefer to use some kind of support, be it a tripod, monopod, or beanbag, but the M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f/5.0-6.3 IS, especially, is an absolute joy to stroll around with.

Even the ‘Big White’ is easy to cart about. And doing so netted me my favorite image of this little project. I was leaving a hide, ‘Big White’ in hand, when a sparrowhawk landed in a tree, right in front of me (above). I couldn’t believe my luck! I simply raised the M.Zuiko 150-400mm f/4.5 TC1.25X IS Pro, took full advantage of its huge 800mm effective focal length and squeezed off a burst. No cropping needed.

If you’re physically unable to lug around heavy kit, know that it will impact your enjoyment, or even become a wildlife photography barrier, you simply cannot put a price on MFT’s weight-saving properties. However, it comes with a bit of a caveat: image quality.

How good is MFT image quality?

At the epicentre of MFT’s weight-saving strategy is its 4/3 sensor, which measures 17.3 × 13mm, roughly half the dimensions of a full-frame sensor (36 × 24mm) and roughly ¼ of the surface area, while also being smaller than an APS-C sensor (23.5 x 15.6mm).

This results in what tends to be a combination of lower resolutions and smaller photosites resulting in more noticeable noise, which means MFT images tend not to hold up to extreme cropping as well as their APS-C and full-frame counterparts. The flip side is that 2x crop factor, which means you’re effectively doubling your lens’s given focal length. In practice, this is often a big advantage, but there's one situation where it's more of a hindrance. Let me explain…

So, the big plus point here is that you can fill the frame with your subject, while standing further back. This means you’re less likely to stress or scare wildlife, or better your chances when restricted to a hide. But, this advantage is curtailed somewhat because it leaves you far less room for cropping.

A lot of photographers will tell you to get it right in camera. It’s sound advice, but doesn’t always work out in practice. Wildlife and sports photographers, in particular, often rely upon cropping simply because they cannot get close enough to the subject. This levels the playing field somewhat when it comes to high-resolution full-frame cameras that can be cropped significantly.

If you’re shooting at 400mm on a full-frame camera, you can crop to the point that you can end up with a similar field of view as an MFT camera (800mm), but a 45.7MP or 60MP sensor will still leave you with less resolution than a 20.4MP MFT sensor. However, the margins are fine and the advantage with extensive cropping is that you get more control over your composition. If you’re capturing slower wildlife or wildlife portraits then I think getting it right in camera is definitely what you should be aiming for and in this context the extended reach of an MFT setup can work to your advantage.

But I spent a lot of time capturing birds in flight during the Hawk Conservancy Trust’s excellent flying displays and what I found out was that even though I could get much closer to the subjects using my OM System camera, I was missing more shots. The reason is simple, the larger the subject is in the frame, the less room you have for error.

When the subject is an erratic bird, you really do need to pull back slightly to give yourself some wiggle room and help prevent unintentionally cropped wing tips, beaks, etc. So, while MFT gives you the advantage when capturing portraits or slower subjects, a high-resolution full-frame camera wins for extreme action such as birds in flight.

OM System OM-1 Mark II: Suitable for wildlife?

I really enjoyed using the OM System OM-1 Mark II. After all, Digital Camera World’s resident MFT fanatic, James Artaius, awarded it five stars in his review. For starters, it’s a fantastic price. It’s an expensive camera, but you can find it for under $2,000 / £2,000, which is enthusiast-camera prices for flagship technology. What really surprised me, though, is the camera’s ergonomics.

I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that the OM-1 Mark II is the most comfortable camera I’ve ever had the pleasure of using. The grip feels just right, your thumb naturally rests on the ISO button and your left hand is free to alter the AF mode or burst speed without ever moving your eye away from the viewfinder. I was using my Nikon Z8 on the day to compare and the OM-1’s AF isn’t as good as the Nikon’s, but you’re talking about a more expensive, larger and heavier camera.

Do I still recommend ONLY the ‘Big Three’ for wildlife photography?

I guess I’m recommending the ‘Big Four’ for wildlife photography now. ‘Big Five’ if you include Panasonic’s wildlife-worthy Lumix G9 II. I still stand by my original article in that if someone were looking for the very best wildlife photography setup money can buy, I’d lead them down the full-frame route. But if budget or your back is a concern or if you’re a hobbyist who really doesn’t need to be buying the cream of the pro-grade crop, then Micro Four Thirds is not only a solution, its unique advantages mean that it’s not even a sub-par option. It’s just a different option.

My feeling is that it really comes into its own when photographing almost any wildlife that isn’t birds in flight. The extended reach increases your chances of getting it right in camera, making it a fantastic system for wildlife reserve trips or safaris. However, I still think the ability to widen your framing and crop in post is the better choice when capturing birds in flight.

But that’s what’s great about the photography industry today; there really is a system for everyone. So don’t let me or anyone else tell you that Micro Four Thirds isn’t an ideal fit for wildlife photography. If it meets your budget and saves your back, it’s the system for you. Right then, Fujifilm photographers. Come at me!

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If you're interested in capturing better animal pics, here are my top 10 tips for wildlife photography from birds in flight to insect close-ups. Ethics are a huge part of wildlife photography: I’ve attended baited wildlife photography workshops – is it ever okay to bait or should you always patiently wait? Photographer chases owl around field and refuses to stop. This is why we need to talk more about wildlife photography ethics.

Looking for a waterproof camera that can survive your next hiking trip, ski holiday, or beach adventure? While retro compact cameras are having a moment, rugged compacts remain the better choice for photographers who need a camera that can handle drops, dust, and water.

Unlike fashionable point-and-shoot cameras, the Pentax WG-8 ($426.95 / £429) and OM System Tough TG-7 ($549.99 / £449) are designed for use where camera phones and conventional compacts struggle.

Waterproof, shockproof, and freeze-proof, they're built for demanding adventures. Better still, both offer optical zoom lenses, dedicated macro modes and 4K video, making them far more versatile than an action camera alone.

Pentax WG-8

A real Captain Scarlet of a compact camera

The Pentax WG-8 is built tough to survive water, dust, drops, freezing temps – you name it.

It's perfect if you want a camera that's truly adventure-proof, without spending big. With a 20MP sensor and 5x optical zoom (approx. 28-140mm in 35mm terms).

It shoots decent photos and 4k video at 30fps. It also shines in ultra-close-up shots, and it performs well underwater and in extreme conditions where other cameras might fail.

It's a solid budget-friendly choice for anyone needing a tough, reliable camera for travel.

OM System Tough TG-7

Indestructable camera, impressive results

The OM System Tough TG-7 is built to be a companion on any adventure. It's waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof, so you never have to worry about weather or terrain.

Sure, its 12MP sensor is smaller than some other cameras, but that actually helps underwater photos by capturing more light where it's often dim. Plus, it shoots RAW and bursts up to 20fps – perfect for catching fast moments.

The TG-7 has a handy 4x zoom (approx. 25-100mm in 35mm terms) with a bright aperture and a standout macro mode that lets you snap amazing close-ups and 4K video.

It's simple, durable, and versatile – the perfect point-and-shoot to toss in your bag when you need a reliable camera that won't quit.

Discover more and browse the best travel cameras, best compact cameras and best point and shoot cameras

The OM System OM-5 Mark II with the 12-45 mm f/4 Pro lens has just dropped to its lowest-ever price of £1,150 - a saving of £349 on the full price.

What makes this deal so appealing is that you are not just getting the camera body, but also a pro-quality Zuiko 12-45mm f/4 kit lens.

The OM-5 Mark II is exactly the sort of camera that makes sense for photographers who want serious features without carrying a heavy kit bag. It is compact, lightweight, and built around the kind of go-anywhere shooting experience that OM System does so well, making it a brilliant option for travel, walking, family adventures, and everyday photography.

It also comes with the sort of clever computational tools that make OM System cameras stand out from the crowd. Features designed for handheld shooting, outdoor work, and creative photography mean you can do more in-camera, rather than relying on extra kit or spending hours fixing things later on a computer.

For anyone looking to move up from a phone or an older camera, this bundle is especially tempting. You get a weather-sealed, adventure-ready camera system with a lens that covers a huge focal range, all while keeping the setup small enough to actually want to carry with you every day.

The OM System Tough TG-7 is now going for only £355 on Amazon - a solid drop from its original £499.99, which means you’re saving £144.99 on the recommended retail price. That’s a deal that’s tough to beat for a rugged, adventure-ready compact.

• See all of today's Amazon camera deals