As a pocket camera the retractable fixed zoom lens is the same type typically found on many compact cameras, giving the G1X a big size advantage over the interchangeable lens cameras.
The key to the G1X’s performance is a sensor larger than many interchangeable lens cameras, such as the new Nikon J1, or the four thirds sensor cameras such as the Olympus EP3. The DxOMark tests confirms the performance of the G1X in comparison to the compact cameras, particularly in the area of image noise. The sensor is also much larger than other compact cameras, making it one of the best compact cameras.
Sensor Quality
Canons new 14.3 megapixels, mid size sensor is larger than sensors normally found in compact cameras and is nearly as big as the sensor in APS-C DSLRs. The DxOMark tests at the bottom of the page confirm sensor size is bigger factor in digital camera photo quality than megapixels.
The DxOMark tests show the Nikon J1 with the least megapixels of the comparison group, at 10.1 megapixels, easily outscores the PowerShot S100 in the DxOMark tests, even though the S100 has 12.1 megapixels. The ranking of test performance is the same as the sensor sizes
The G1X’s sensor excels by producing little digital noise in photos helping to produce clean sharp images. The G1X’s lack of noise is particularly good for a compact camera.
It more than matches the new Nikon J1 interchangeable lens camera, and is significantly better than the previous best Canon compact camera, the PowerShot S100.
Low image noise is important in a compact camera as it lessens the reliance on flash and allows photographers to use higher ISO settings for candid or spontaneous moments.
Convenient Lens Size
The large sensor is the key to the G1X’s outstanding image performance, but the retractable lens is the key to its pocketability and convenience. Photographers are not disadvantaged by having a permanently attached lens that in 35 mm equivalent terms it offers a 28 mm to 112 mm range of focal lengths. The wide angle end of the range is suitable for scenery or large groups of family and friends through to a moderate telephoto for individual close up portraits.
With its kit lens attached the Nikon J1 is about 90 mm thick compared to about 60 mm for the G1X with the lens retracted. This makes the G1X easier to carry and to slip it in and out of pockets and purses. There may be a slight loss of optical quality in the compact lens design compared to the larger interchangeable lens, but this is offset by the convenience aspect of ease of carrying the camera. The G1X is a compact camera where convenience is an important factor.
Optical Viewfinder
The Canon G1X also has an optical viewfinder that goes with the classic rangefinder styling referencing Canon’s roots as a camera manufacturer. The viewfinder is not part of any optical rangefinder system, as the G1X uses a modern autofocus system. The optical viewfinder does help photographers hold the camera firmly, which combined with low noise at higher ISO settings, makes the G1X useful in a wide range of lighting conditions.
Summary
The G1X is priced around $US800 so it is not a cheap alternative to a DSLR, as Canon’s own entry level DSLR with a kit lens is usually cheaper than the G1X. The Rebel T3 has a slightly larger sensor giving it an advantage in low light over the G1X. Photographers are paying extra for the compact size and convenience of carrying the G1X, even though it may lack the flexibility of interchangeable lens cameras.
The Canon PowerShot G1X has the sophisticated exposure and focusing systems photographers expect, even in budget priced compact cameras, and of course the PowerShot G1X records High Definition Video.
Join the Conversation