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Used compact cameras are now priced higher than their original new prices. Here's what I'd opt for as an alternative.

Escalating demand outpacing supply has led to inflated prices, even for second-hand, compact cameras. Nevertheless, there are viable alternatives available.

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Used compact cameras now command higher prices than their original new costs. Here's an alternative...
Used compact cameras now command higher prices than their original new costs. Here's an alternative option I'd suggest: Second-hand compact cameras are priced higher than their initial purchase prices, consider this alternative instead.

Used compact cameras are now priced higher than their original new prices. Here's what I'd opt for as an alternative.

Compact cameras are back in vogue, but the prices aren't exactly compact-sized. Some popular models like the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III and the Fujifilm X100V have pushed the prices of used versions beyond even the initial list price. If you're a professional photographer, that can feel a bit too rich for your blood.

But fear not, there are alternatives that won't break the bank.

Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III

The Canon PowerShot G7 series has gained popularity, thanks to influencers realizing a camera with optical zoom is far superior to a smartphone's camera. This popularity has driven the price of the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III higher than the original $899 price tag. It's a trendy camera that's in high demand but short supply.

If you're not ready to splurge on a used camera, consider the Canon PowerShot V1. While it's marketed as a vlogging camera, it boasts a larger sensor, zoom lens, and pocketable design - the best features from the G7X Mark III. Moreover, it comes at a lighter price tag than many used G7X models.

Fujifilm X100V

The popularity of the Fujifilm X100 series on social media has skyrocketed, making the new Fujifilm X100VI incredibly hard to find. As a result, the price of used X100V models has climbed, too. But there's some good news: stock issues for the X100VI are starting to ease up. In fact, Fujifilm's UK website lists the camera in stock, and US retailer Adorama predicts an August delivery.

If you're willing to wait a bit, the X100VI is available now in the UK, with US customers expected to receive theirs in August. Personally, I wouldn't pay more than the list price for the X100V, given the predicted arrival of the X100VI.

If waiting doesn't suit your style, check out the Fujifilm X-E5. It's like a mirrorless version of the X100 series and is still compact with the kit lens. The X-E5 is available for pre-order with shipping estimated for the end of August. It may take some time and requires a higher investment, but the versatility it offers might be worth it.

Ricoh GR III

The Ricoh GR III is highly pocketable, boasts a large APS-C sensor, and its bright lens has made it incredibly popular. However, its popularity and limited stock make it hard to find at its original $899/£950/AU$1,499 price. But, here's the catch: Ricoh has announced the Ricoh GR IV, coming out this fall.

If you can wait a few months, you may be able to snag the new version at the list price. Keep in mind, the GR IV's popularity and tariffs in the US could drive its price up like the difference between the X100V and X100VI.

If you're willing to spend a bit more, the Ricoh GR IV should be your pick. If you can't wait, the GR III might still be a good buy, as similar new cameras typically cost more.

Panasonic LX100 II

The Panasonic LX100 II stands out with a large sensor, bright lens, and optical zoom - features that are rare in a compact camera. With few options like it left on the market, used versions tend to be priced higher than the original $999/£799/AU$1,499 price tag.

The LX100 II is a great buy, especially considering comparable new cameras typically cost more. If you're hesitant to buy used, the Panasonic LX100 II actually shares many of the same specifications as the Leica D-Lux 7. While the D-Lux 7 is a bit pricier, you're getting a new camera rather than a used one.

Another option to consider for photographers who don't mind buying used cameras is the Leica D-Lux 7, which offers a 17 megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, sits around the price of the LX100 II, and was also around the same price when brand new.

Fujifilm X70

The Fujifilm X70 offers a unique experience with its smaller body compared to the X100 series, and its popularity is a testament to its quality. However, its age is beginning to show compared to Fujifilm's recent compact camera releases, which boast higher resolution.

If you're tempted by the X70 despite the price, consider the Fujifilm X-M5 with a kit lens. Its price is lower than the X70 in some regions, and while it's a bit larger, it offers more versatility.

The newly announced Fujifilm X Half might also catch your eye if retro designs appeal to you. The sensor is smaller, and the build quality isn't as high-end as the X100 series, but it's compact and offers an analog-like experience on digital.

Panasonic GM5 (Compact mirrorless)

The Panasonic GM5 isn't a traditional compact camera but a compact mirrorless camera. It's a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds camera and, despite being a mirrorless camera, it's still fairly compact.

If you're not keen on the Panasonic GM5's price, consider the Panasonic S9. While the step up to a full-frame sensor will cost a bit more, the compact body might be worth it for some.

For staying within a similar price point, the Olympus E-M10 Mark IV offers a more affordable mirrorless option. The Micro Four Thirds format ensures the mirrorless body remains fairly small, but it still includes a viewfinder and a higher resolution.

Olympus PEN-F (Compact mirrorless)

The Olympus PEN-F offers a retro-style mirrorless camera that's still compact. While Olympus no longer sells the PEN series outside of Japan, the company hasn't abandoned making retro-inspired cameras. The OM System OM-3, for example, boasts a creative dial, retro dials, compact design, weather-sealing, excellent stabilization, and built-in tools like live composite and live ND.

  1. Professional photographers seeking a compact camera alternative without breaking the bank might consider the Canon PowerShot V1, which offers a larger sensor, zoom lens, and pocketable design, despite being marketed as a vlogging camera.
  2. If a used Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III is out of budget, the G7X Mark III's features are still accessible in the Canon PowerShot V1 at a lighter price tag.
  3. Fujifilm X100V's popularity on social media has driven up its price in the used market, but the Fujifilm X100VI, with similar features, is predicted to be available for purchase later this year, ideally at the list price.
  4. For those willing to wait for the Fujifilm X100VI, the Fujifilm X-E5, a mirrorless version of the X100 series, is available for pre-order and shipping is estimated for the end of this month.
  5. The Ricoh GR III's popularity and limited stock make it hard to find at its original price, but the upcoming Ricoh GR IV may be available for purchase at the list price later this fall.
  6. The Panasonic LX100 II, with features rare in a compact camera, is a great buy, especially considering comparable new cameras typically cost more, even when bought used.
  7. For photographers who don't mind buying used cameras, the Leica D-Lux 7, with similar specifications as the Panasonic LX100 II, might be a good fit, with its price around the same as the LX100 II and even cheaper in some regions.

On a separate note, for those interested in gadgets and technology, the Xiaomi Mi drone is a popular and affordable option in the drone market, offering 4K video capture and long battery life.

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