Multi-award-winning full-frame mirrorless is Japan's No.1 camera, but its 3-year-old sibling is the real success story – here's why

When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Japan's latest camera sales figures by major retailer Yodobashi are out – and the No.1 is a full-frame mirrorless that many photographers have been waiting for. Since its release in December 2025, the Sony A7 V has regularly topped the sales charts. But the real all-rounder camera champion sits at No.2 and No.4: the Sony A7C II, a compact full-frame that has been on the market for almost three years.

The A7 V is a multi-award-winning camera, having been named Camera of the Year twice by EISA and the Camera Grand Prix , and was also awarded the title Best Full Frame Expert Camera at the TIPA World Awards . When it entered the market around eight months ago, it quickly became one of the most popular cameras in Japan.

But the more interesting success story is the A7C II. Announced in August 2023, it continues to appear among Japan's best-selling mirrorless cameras, beating newer releases more often than some might expect – and there's a good reason why.

Yodobashi's Top 10 best-selling cameras, 1st Half Aug, 2026

1. Sony A7 V
2. Sony A7C II Zoom Lens Kit | Silver | Black
3. Fujifilm X-M5 + XC15-45mm Lens Kit | Silver | Black
4. Sony A7C II | Silver | Black
5. Canon EOS R50 Double Zoom Kit | Black | White
6. Hasselblad X2D II 100C
7. Canon EOS R5 Mark II
8. Canon EOS R10 + RF-S18-150 IS STM Lens Kit
9. Canon EOS R6 Mark II
10. Sony ZV-E10 II Double Zoom Lens Kit | Black | White

The Sony A7 V vs. Sony A7C II

So why is a nearly three-year-old camera still selling alongside Sony's newest full-frame model?

Both the A7 V and A7C II are full-frame mirrorless cameras, but the A7C II has two major advantages: price and portability.

At 514g, it is considerably lighter than the 695g A7 V. The A7C II is currently available for $2,498 / £2,099 , while the newer A7 V costs $2,898 / £2,799.

The A7C II is a compact all-rounder that champions performance and portability. It already delivers advanced AF, high-resolution imaging, and solid video capabilities – meaning some users may not see a compelling upgrade in newer models.

That's why, even three years later, the A7C II is still a competitive player in a competitive market that's known to move fast.

You might like...

Browse the best mirrorless cameras and the best lenses for the Sony A7 V .