DJI Outpaces All Japanese Camera Makers Combined in 2025 Handheld Market

IDC data shows the global handheld smart camera market reached 16.65 million units in 2025, an 83% year-over-year increase, with total sales exceeding 46 billion yuan (about $6.875 trillion). DJI alone shipped 10.4 million handheld cameras, surpassing the combined 9.44 million digital cameras sold by all CIPA member companies, which include Japanese makers like Canon and Nikon. Insta360 shipped 3.4 million units, and together DJI and Insta360 moved about 13.8 million cameras—more than twice the 6.1 million mirrorless cameras shipped by CIPA members. The traditional digital camera market saw its fourth straight year of growth and its highest total since 2019, but remains far below the handheld segment's growth rate. IDC projects the handheld smart camera market will hit 40 million units by 2030. GoPro continues to lose market share in the handheld space. Price dynamics differ sharply: interchangeable-lens cameras cost thousands with high margins, while handheld devices like the Insta360 Luna Ultra at $770 face thinner margins and downward price pressure. DJI's ongoing FCC issues in the U.S. could affect future shipments. Both markets can grow simultaneously, as they serve different purposes and many consumers own both types.