Canon G9 vs. G12: Which Camera Should You Buy?

In the realm of advanced compact cameras, Canon has consistently delivered cutting-edge technology and features, catering to both amateur photographers and enthusiasts.

In this article, we delve into the intricacies of two remarkable models: the Canon G9 and the Canon G12. As we explore their design, performance, and capabilities, we aim to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of these powerful imaging devices.

Canon G9 vs. Canon G12: Comparison Table

Feature	Canon PowerShot G9	Canon PowerShot G12
Image Sensor	1/1.7-inch CCD, 12.1MP	1/1.7-inch CCD, 10.0MP
Image Processor	DIGIC III	DIGIC 4
Lens	7.4-44.4mm (35mm equiv. 35-210mm), f/2.8-f/4.8	6.1-30.5mm (35mm equiv. 28-140mm), f/2.8-f/4.5
Optical Zoom	6x	5x
Viewfinder	No	Yes (Optical)
LCD Screen	3.0-inch, 230,000 pixels	2.8-inch Vari-Angle, 461,000 pixels
ISO Range	80-1600 (expandable to 3200)	80-3200
Video Recording	VGA (640×480) at 30 fps	HD 720p (1280×720) at 24 fps
RAW Capture	Yes	Yes
Built-in ND Filter	No	Yes
Battery Life (CIPA)	Approx. 240 shots	Approx. 370 shots
Dimensions	106.4 x 71.9 x 42.5 mm	112.1 x 76.2 x 48.3 mm
Weight	Approx. 320g (including battery)	Approx. 401g (including battery)
Image Stabilization	Yes (Optical)	Yes (Optical)
Connectivity	USB 2.0 High-Speed, A/V Output	USB 2.0 High-Speed, HDMI Mini, and A/V Output
Wireless Connectivity	No	No
Hot Shoe for Flash	Yes	Yes
Price	Check Price On Amazon	Check Price On Amazon

Canon G9 In-Depth Analysis

Design and Build

1. Physical dimensions and weight

The Canon G9 features a compact design with dimensions of 106.4 x 71.9 x 42.5 mm, making it portable and convenient for on-the-go photography. It weighs approximately 320g (including battery), ensuring a lightweight yet sturdy build.

2. Build quality and materials used

The G9 boasts a robust build quality, providing a solid feel in the hand. The materials used contribute to its durability, making it suitable for varied shooting environments.

Image Sensor and Processor

1. Megapixels and sensor size

The G9 is equipped with a 12.1-megapixel 1/1.7-inch CCD sensor, delivering high-resolution images with fine detail.

2. Image processor details

Powered by the DIGIC III image processor, the G9 demonstrates efficient processing capabilities, contributing to its overall performance and responsiveness.

Lens and Zoom

1. Focal length and aperture range

The G9’s lens offers a focal length of 7.4–44.4mm (35mm equivalent: 35–210mm) with a variable aperture range from f/2.8 to f/4.8, providing users with creative control over depth of field.

2. Optical zoom capabilities

With a 6x optical zoom, the G9 enables users to capture subjects both near and far with precision, enhancing its versatility.

Display and Viewfinder

1. LCD screen specifications

The G9 is equipped with a 3.0-inch TFT color LCD screen with a resolution of approximately 230,000 pixels, ensuring clear and vibrant image composition and review.

2. Presence and specifications of a viewfinder:

However, the G9 lacks a traditional viewfinder, relying on its LCD screen for framing and reviewing shots.

Performance

1. ISO range and low-light performance

The G9 offers an ISO range from 80 to 1600, expandable to 3200, enhancing its low-light performance and allowing users to capture detailed images in various lighting conditions.

2. Burst shooting and autofocus capabilities

With impressive burst shooting capabilities and reliable autofocus, the G9 ensures users can capture fast-paced scenes with precision.

Connectivity

1. Ports and wireless features

The G9 features standard ports for connectivity, including USB 2.0 High-Speed. However, it lacks built-in wireless features.

2. Compatibility with accessories

The camera is designed with compatibility for various accessories, enhancing its functionality and allowing users to expand their creative possibilities.

Canon G12 In-Depth Analysis

Design and Build

1. Physical dimensions and weight

The Canon G12 maintains a compact design with dimensions of 112.1 x 76.2 x 48.3 mm, and it weighs approximately 401g (including battery), striking a balance between portability and a substantial feel.

2. Build quality and materials used

Similar to the G9, the G12 features a robust build quality, ensuring durability in different shooting conditions.

Image Sensor and Processor

1. Megapixels and sensor size

The G12 is equipped with a 10.0-megapixel 1/1.7-inch CCD sensor, providing users with high-quality images.

2. Image processor details

Powered by the DIGIC 4 image processor, the G12 demonstrates advanced processing capabilities, contributing to improved image quality and overall camera performance.

Lens and Zoom

1. Focal length and aperture range

The G12’s lens offers a focal length of 6.1-30.5mm (35mm equivalent: 28-140mm) with a variable aperture range from f/2.8 to f/4.5, providing users with creative control over composition.

2. Optical zoom capabilities

With a 5x optical zoom, the G12 allows users to capture a variety of scenes with flexibility and precision.

Display and Viewfinder

1. LCD screen specifications

The G12 is equipped with a 2.8-inch vari-angle TFT color LCD screen with a resolution of approximately 461,000 pixels, offering a clear and flexible composition.

2. Presence and specifications of a viewfinder

Distinguishing itself from the G9, the G12 includes an optical viewfinder, providing users with an alternative composition method.

Performance

1. ISO range and low-light performance

The G12 offers an ISO range from 80 to 3200, enhancing its low-light performance and providing users with the ability to capture detailed images in challenging lighting conditions.

2. Burst shooting and autofocus capabilities

With reliable burst shooting capabilities and autofocus performance, the G12 ensures users can capture dynamic scenes with ease.

Connectivity

1. Ports and wireless features

Similar to the G9, the G12 features standard ports, including USB 2.0 High-Speed and HDMI Mini, but lacks built-in wireless features.

2. Compatibility with accessories

Designed with compatibility for various accessories, the G12 allows users to expand their creative possibilities and enhance their shooting experience.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Canon G9 vs. G12

Design and Build

• Canon G9:
  • Compact design (106.4 x 71.9 x 42.5 mm) and lightweight (320g).
  • Robust build quality with a focus on portability.
• Canon G12:
  • Slightly larger design (112.1 x 76.2 x 48.3 mm) and heavier (401g).
  • Maintains a balance between portability and a substantial feel.

Verdict: The Canon G9 is more compact and lighter, making it suitable for those prioritizing portability. The G12, while larger, offers a more substantial build.

Image Sensor and Processor

• Canon G9:
  • 12.1 MP 1/1.7-inch CCD sensor, DIGIC III processor.
• Canon G12:
  • 10.0 MP 1/1.7-inch CCD sensor, DIGIC 4 processor.

Verdict: The G9 boasts a higher megapixel count, potentially providing more detailed images. The G12, however, introduces the more advanced DIGIC 4 processor.

Lens and Zoom

• Canon G9:
  • 6x optical zoom, focal length 7.4–44.4mm, aperture f/2.8–f/4.8.
• Canon G12:
  • 5x optical zoom, focal length 6.1-30.5mm, aperture f/2.8-f/4.5.

Verdict: The G9 offers a higher optical zoom, potentially useful for capturing distant subjects. However, the G12 has a slightly wider aperture.

Display and Viewfinder

• Canon G9:
  • 3.0-inch LCD screen (230,000 pixels), no viewfinder.
• Canon G12:
  • 2.8-inch vari-angle LCD screen (461,000 pixels) includes an optical viewfinder.

Verdict: The G12’s vari-angle LCD and inclusion of an optical viewfinder provide more flexible composition options compared to the G9.

Performance

• Canon G9:
  • ISO range 80-1600 (expandable to 3200), DIGIC III processor.
• Canon G12:
  • ISO range 80–3200, DIGIC 4 processor.

Verdict: The G12 offers a wider ISO range, potentially improving low-light performance. The use of DIGIC 4 contributes to enhanced processing capabilities.

Connectivity

• Canon G9:
  • Standard ports, USB 2.0 high-speed, no built-in wireless features.
• Canon G12:
  • Standard ports, USB 2.0 High-Speed, HDMI Mini, no built-in wireless features.

Verdict: Both models offer similar connectivity options but lack built-in wireless features.

Winner of the comparison?

Choosing a winner between the Canon G9 and G12 depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences. Each camera has its strengths, and the decision should align with the photographer’s priorities. Here’s a brief summary to help you decide:

Choose the Canon G9 if:

1. Portability is a priority.
   • The G9 is more compact and lighter, making it an excellent choice for photographers who prioritize portability.
2. Higher Megapixel Count:
   • If having a higher megapixel count is crucial for your photography needs, the G9’s 12.1MP sensor is preferable.
3. Longer Optical Zoom Range:
   • The G9 offers a 6x optical zoom, providing a slightly longer range for capturing distant subjects.

Choose the Canon G12 if:

1. Build and Flexibility:
   • If you prefer a camera with a more substantial feel and value the flexibility of a vari-angle LCD and an optical viewfinder, the G12 is a strong contender.
2. Advanced Processor:
   • The G12 features the DIGIC 4 processor, potentially leading to enhanced image processing capabilities compared to the G9’s DIGIC III.
3. Wider ISO Range:
   • The G12’s wider ISO range is beneficial for low-light photography, offering improved performance in challenging lighting conditions.

In the end, the “winner” depends on what features and characteristics are most important to you as a photographer. Both cameras are solid choices, and your decision should be based on your specific use case and preferences.