Canon G7 X vs. G7 X Mark II: Which Camera Should You Buy?

The Canon G7X and G7X Mark II are renowned compact cameras that have garnered the attention of photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.

In this article, we will delve into the features, improvements, and differences between the two models to help you make an informed decision.

Comparison Table Of Canon G7 X vs Canon G7 X Mark II

Feature	Canon G7X	Canon G7X Mark II
Design and Build	Compact design with premium build	Subtle changes for improved design
	materials, ergonomic grip	and handling
Physical Dimensions	4.06 x 2.38 x 1.59 inches	Similar dimensions
Image Sensor and Processor	1.0-inch CMOS sensor,	1.0-inch CMOS sensor,
	20.2MP, DIGIC 6 Processor	20.1MP, DIGIC 7 Processor
ISO Range	125-6400 (expandable to 25600)	125-12800 (expandable to 25600)
Lens	24-100mm, f/1.8-f/2.8	24-100mm, f/1.8-f/2.8
Optical Zoom	4.2x	4.2x
Image Stabilization	Intelligent IS with 5-axis	Intelligent IS with 4-stop IS
Display	3.0-inch TFT Color Touch Panel	3.0-inch TFT Color Touch Panel
	LCD, 1.04 million dots	LCD, 1.04 million dots
Autofocus System	TTL Autofocus with 31 focus points	Enhanced autofocus system
Burst Shooting	Approx. 6.5 shots per sec.	Approx. 8 shots per sec.
Battery Life	Reliable for extended shooting	Potential improvements or changes
Video Resolution	Full HD 1080p at 60fps	Full HD 1080p at 60fps
Wireless Connectivity	Yes (Wi-Fi)	Yes (Wi-Fi, NFC)
Ports and Connections	Standard ports for connectivity	Potential improvements or changes
Remote Control Options	Yes	Yes
Price	Check Price On Amazon	Check Price On Amazon

Canon G7X

Design and Build

1. Physical dimensions

The Canon G7X boasts a compact and sleek design, measuring at 4.06 x 2.38 x 1.59 inches (103.0 x 60.4 x 40.4mm), making it highly portable and suitable for various shooting scenarios.

2. Build materials and ergonomics

Crafted with attention to detail, the camera features a robust build with ergonomic considerations for comfortable handling during extended use. The materials used contribute to a durable yet lightweight construction.

3. Button layout and controls

The button layout on the Canon G7X is designed with user convenience in mind. The placement of controls ensures easy access to essential functions, enhancing the overall user experience and allowing for quick adjustments while shooting.

Image Sensor and Processor

1. Sensor type and size

The G7X incorporates a 1.0-inch type CMOS sensor, delivering approximately 20.2 megapixels for high-resolution images. The sensor size contributes to improved low-light performance and enhanced image quality.

2. Image processor details

Powered by the DIGIC 6 Image Processor, the camera benefits from advanced processing capabilities, enabling efficient handling of image data, faster performance, and enhanced overall camera responsiveness.

3. ISO range and low-light performance

With an ISO range of 125–6400 (expandable to 25600), the Canon G7X excels in low-light conditions, allowing users to capture sharp and clear images even in challenging lighting situations.

Lens

1. Focal length and aperture

The lens of the G7X offers a versatile focal length ranging from 8.8 to 36.8mm (35mm film equivalent: 24-100mm) and features a wide aperture of f/1.8 (W) to f/2.8 (T), facilitating creative control over depth of field.

2. Optical zoom capabilities

Equipped with a 4.2x optical zoom, the camera provides flexibility in framing shots, ensuring users can capture both wide-angle scenes and distant subjects with clarity.

3. Image stabilization technology

The Intelligent IS with 5-axis Advanced Dynamic IS effectively minimizes the impact of camera shake, enabling users to capture sharp images and steady videos, even in challenging shooting conditions.

Display

1. Size, resolution, and type

The camera features a 3.0-inch TFT Color Touch Panel LCD with approximately 1.04 million dots, offering a clear and vibrant display for image composition and playback.

2. Touchscreen functionality

The touchscreen functionality enhances user interaction, providing a convenient way to navigate menus, select focus points, and review images with ease.

3. Articulation and flexibility

The tilt-type display, capable of tilting 180 degrees up, enhances shooting flexibility, allowing for creative compositions, especially in low- or high-angle situations.

Performance

1. Autofocus system

The TTL Autofocus with 31 points delivers precise and fast focusing, ensuring that users can capture sharp images across a variety of shooting scenarios.

2. Burst shooting and continuous autofocus

With a continuous shooting speed of approximately 6.5 shots per second, the camera is well-suited for capturing fast-paced action, and the autofocus system contributes to maintaining focus during continuous shooting.

3. Battery life

Powered by the NB-13L rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, the G7X provides reliable battery life, allowing users to capture a significant number of shots on a single charge.

Video Capabilities

1. Maximum video resolution and frame rates

The G7X supports Full HD 1080p video at 60 fps in MP4 format, delivering high-quality video recording capabilities.

2. Video autofocus and image stabilization

The camera features efficient video autofocus and benefits from intelligent IS technology, ensuring stable and focused video recording.

3. Additional video features

Various shooting modes, including creative options and scene modes, provide users with the flexibility to explore different video styles and effects.

Connectivity

1. Wireless capabilities

The G7X offers Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, facilitating easy sharing of images and remote control capabilities through compatible devices.

2. Ports and external connections

The camera includes standard USB and HDMI ports, providing versatility for data transfer and connectivity to external devices.

3. Remote control options

With wireless connectivity, users can remotely control the camera, expanding creative possibilities and enabling group shots or self-portraits with ease.

Canon G7X Mark II

Design and Build

1. Changes in design compared to the original G7X

The G7X Mark II maintains the compact design of its predecessor but introduces subtle changes to enhance aesthetics or handling.

2. Improved ergonomics and handling

Building upon the original design, the Mark II version incorporates ergonomic improvements for better handling and user comfort during prolonged use.

Image Sensor and Processor

1. Upgrades in sensor and processor technology

The G7X Mark II features advancements with a 1.0-inch type CMOS sensor and DIGIC 7 Image Processor, potentially enhancing image quality, low-light performance, and overall processing speed.

2. Impact on image quality and performance

The upgraded sensor and processor contribute to improved image quality, reduced noise levels, and enhanced performance, especially in challenging shooting conditions.

Lens

1. Any changes in focal length and aperture

The focal length and aperture remain similar to the original G7X, providing users with a versatile and high-quality lens for various photographic situations.

2. Lens quality improvements

The Mark II version introduces enhancements in lens technology, resulting in improved optical performance, sharpness, and color reproduction.

Display

1. Upgrades or changes in display technology

The display on the Mark II could feature upgrades in technology, potentially enhancing brightness, color accuracy, and overall visibility in various lighting conditions.

2. Touchscreen improvements

The touchscreen functionality sees improvements, offering a more responsive and intuitive interface for easier navigation and control.

Performance

1. Autofocus enhancements

The Mark II features improvements in the autofocus system, resulting in faster and more accurate focusing across different shooting scenarios.

2. Changes in burst shooting capabilities

With a faster continuous shooting speed of approximately 8 shots per second, the Mark II version provides increased versatility for capturing fast-paced action.

3. Battery life improvements or changes

The battery life sees enhancements, allowing users to capture more shots on a single charge compared to the original G7X.

Video Capabilities

1. Upgrades in video resolution and frame rates

The Mark II version offers improved video recording capabilities, potentially supporting higher resolutions and additional frame rate options.

2. Enhanced video autofocus and stabilization features

Advances in video autofocus and stabilization technologies contribute to smoother and more professional-looking video recordings.

Connectivity

1. Any additions or changes in wireless connectivity

The Mark II introduces additional features or improvements in wireless connectivity, providing users with more seamless sharing options and enhanced remote control capabilities.

2. Improved or additional ports and connections

The connectivity options on the Mark II, including USB and HDMI ports, see improvements or additions, ensuring compatibility with a range of external devices.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Canon G7 X vs. Canon G7 X Mark II

Design and build

Canon G7 X:

• Compact and sleek design.
• Dimensions: 4.06 x 2.38 x 1.59 inches.
• Ergonomic controls for user-friendly operation.

Canon G7 X Mark II:

• Retains a compact design with potential improvements.
• Ergonomic enhancements for improved handling.

Verdict: Mark II likely offers slight design improvements for better ergonomics.

Image Sensor and Processor

Canon G7 X:

• 20.2MP 1.0-inch CMOS sensor.
• DIGIC 6 Image Processor.
• ISO range: 125–6400 (expandable to 25600).

Canon G7 X Mark II:

• 20.1MP 1.0-inch CMOS sensor.
• Upgraded DIGIC 7 image processor.
• Potentially improved image quality and low-light performance.

Verdict: Mark II likely provides better image processing capabilities

Lens

Canon G7 X:

• 4.2x optical zoom with f/1.8–f/2.8 aperture.
• Intelligent IS with 5-axis Advanced Dynamic IS.

Canon G7 X Mark II:

• 4.2x optical zoom with f/1.8–f/2.8 aperture.
• Intelligent IS with 4-stop IS.

Verdict: Both models offer similar lens specifications.

Display

Canon G7 X:

• 3.0-inch TFT Color Touch Panel LCD.
• Tilt-type: 180 degrees up.

Canon G7 X Mark II:

• 3.0-inch TFT Color Touch Panel LCD.
• Tilt-type: 180 degrees up, 45 degrees down.

Verdict: Mark II provides additional tilt flexibility.

Performance

Canon G7 X:

• 6.5 shots per second burst shooting.
• Good autofocus system.

Canon G7 X Mark II:

• 8 shots per second burst shooting.
• Potentially improved autofocus system.

Verdict: Mark II offers faster burst shooting and potentially better autofocus.

Video Capabilities

Canon G7 X:

• Full HD 1080p video at 60 fps.

Canon G7 X Mark II:

• Full HD 1080p video at 60 fps.
• Time-lapse movie feature.

Verdict: Both models have comparable video capabilities.

Connectivity

Canon G7 X:

• Wi-Fi, NFC, USB, and HDMI.

Canon G7 X Mark II:

• Wi-Fi, NFC, USB, and HDMI.

Verdict: Similar connectivity features exist for both models.

Winner of the comparison?

Winner: Canon G7 X Mark II

The Canon G7 X Mark II emerges as the winner in this head-to-head comparison. With upgrades in image processing, autofocus performance, and additional tilt flexibility in the display, the Mark II offers enhancements that contribute to an improved overall shooting experience.

While the original G7 X is still a capable camera, the Mark II’s advancements make it a more attractive choice for users seeking the latest features and optimal performance in a compact package.