Canon G1X Review
(It's the G1X Sensor)

I write this Canon G1x review reluctantly because it could  also be named The camera I wish I purchased, but now I am glad I didn't. Although, I liked the Canon's Premium Compact format of my Canon G11 (the entire "G" series) for several reasons.

I really like the size of these cameras, their build quality, the hot shoe, and the ability to shoot "raw" and process in a variety of ways after capture.

Although the G15 came into the market as the most recent G camera, Canon was able to fit a huge sensor (relative to the other G cameras) into a slightly larger sized camera.  See the G1X Sensor Size comparison with other sensors.

The biggest difference between the standard "G" series cameras and the G1X is the size of the lens.  To accommodate the larger sensor in the G1X, Canon had to use a much bigger lens with a larger circle of coverage to focus the light on the g1X's 1.5 inch sensor size.

The G1X will not fit into an average pocket, only a large cargo pocket or perhaps a small purse or a jacket pocket.  With that disclaimer, the added benefit in quality with a sensor that is so much bigger is an important factor in choosing a camera. 

The 1.5 inch sensor is only slightly smaller than the Canon APS-C sensor that is used in so many of the Canon DSLR models.  That makes it huge compared to the other "g" series cameras.

Another advantage of a larger sensor is the ability to create shallow depth of field at the larger apertures.  This is a great feature when you want to isolate your subject and blur the background intentionally.

This Canon g1X review does not include chromatic aberrations and shutter accuracy results.

As you might know, I confess that I am not a professional camera equipment reviewer.  I am a professional photographer who reviews digital camera equipment and accessories.

With this web site, I've taken the approach to provide personal and practical advice on choosing and using digital cameras and accessories, primarily made by Canon.

It's my belief that we are often caught up in an exaggerated focus on the technical stuff when it's the practical stuff that really matters for many photographers.

Don't get me wrong, scientific camera and lens tests are very useful and the professional reviewers provide very valuable information, particularly for the professional photographer who demands the utmost quality, durability and usability with their photography gadgets and gizmos.

One of the readers of Canon Camera Geek had narrowed down to two final choices for buying his next Canon camera.  He was planning a trip to picturesque Canada and Alaska and was comparing the G1X with the G15.  Here is what I told him:    https://www.canoncamerageek.com/canon-g15-or-g1x-camera-comparison.html

Three Shortcomings of this camera in this Canon G1X Review

The biggest complaints from photographers with the G1x is with it's focusing speed.  If you are shooting "street photography" or action photography you may be disappointed with the focusing speed of this camera.

If you are a still life, portrait or landscape photographer, you are going to love the image quality and improved bokeh you get with the G1x large sensor.

Secondly, if you want to shoot a lot of macro photography, this is not the best camera for you either.   The close focusing distance isn't close at all.

Finally, I don't like the "tunnel view" optical viewfinder in the original G1X camera.  It's inaccurate and shows no exposure or camera setting information inside.

The introduction of the Canon G1x Mark II caused a nice price drop the the Canon Powershot G1X and it is a good value if the above mentioned shortcomings aren't important to you.

The 1.5 inch sensor combined with the Digic 5 processor does produce great image quality.

Canon G1X vs. Canon G12 Size Comparison

In the illustration below, a Canon G12 (in red) is superimposed above a Canon G1X (in black)

[ Click the photo to enlarge ]

Create a blast. Keep shooting Canons!

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related G1X posts:

G1X Mark II First Impression

G1X Mark II Review

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