Canon PowerShot G1 X

The PowerShot G1 X is a high-end compact digital camera introduced by Canon in 2012. It inherits the chunky styling, general control layout, and raw-shooting capabilities from Canon's earlier "G" models, such as the G12. But a major difference from those predecessors is the inclusion of a significantly larger sensor: At 18.7 x 14mm it is almost full APS-C format, rather than the 1/1.7" used in most other "serious" compact cameras. Unlike typical DSLR sensors, the G1 X uses the 4:3 aspect ratio more typical of compact cameras.

In contrast to CSCs such as those using the Micro Four Thirds format, the G1 X has no interchangeable lens; instead it has a fixed 15.1–60.4 mm zoom (giving a 35mm equivalent of 28–112 mm). The larger sensor format demands a proportionally larger lens; and to avoid even greater bulk Canon had to compromise on the lens's close-focus ability (for a minimum subject dimensions of about 8x10"), and speed (only f/5.8 when zoomed to full telephoto). This somewhat counteracts the high-ISO advantage of the G1 X's larger sensor: A compact camera with a brighter lens, (such as the Olympus XZ-1 offers an aperture two stops wider when zoomed to its 112 mm -equivalent setting.

Rather than opting for one of the era's increasingly-sophisticated electronic viewfinders, the G1 X sticks with Canon's zooming optical finder, despite its limitations. However a fully articulated fold-out LCD screen of 922,000 dots resolution is also available.

Top controls image by schaft9 (Image rights)

image by schaft9 (Image rights)

Links

• Canon G1 X review at DPReview.com
• Another review at Camera Labs (New Zealand)
• Canon PowerShot G1 X page at the Canon Camera Museum