Canon is known for its digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras, spread across varied price points. However, they also make the compact point-and-shoot camera with video capability, aimed at on-the-go photography enthusiasts.
This is where, you have options like the G5X that might be small in size, but one should not underestimate its shooting prowess. Sony has the RX100 series, Panasonic sells the Lumix LX100 in the same price bracket, so what’s the differentiating factor that Canon offers with the G5X? For Rs 49,995 we’re hoping for much more than just a camera.
Key Features: Canon G5X
- Camera Type: Point-and-Shoot
- Resolution: 20.2-megapixel
- Display: 3-inch Touch support LCD
- Optical Zoom: 4.2x
- Weight: 377-grams
- Sensor Size: 1-inch
- Price: Rs 49,995
What’s Good?
The Canon G5X is small, which makes it easy to carry around, unlike bulky DLSRs. You get the option to transfer images with the help of WiFi connectivity via Canon Camera Connect and wouldn’t we love the option of shoot-and-share? The 3-inch display offers touch support and even though it’s heavier than the G7X, most of us would find the grip offering additional comfort and a new set of buttons for easier control.
Unlike the Sony RX100 which has the viewfinder on the left-side, Canon has opted for the electronic viewfinder positioned at the centre. It is interesting to note that Panasonic Lumix LX100 has the electronic viewfinder placed at the top-left corner.
This feature gives Canon G5X the advantage and comfort that is suited to photographers in general. They’ve even managed to include an image stabilisation feature that works its magic and delivers crisp images that are high on detail.
The battery life of the Canon G5X is at par with most of the other point-and-shoot cameras selling in the market right now. However, we love the fact that you can charge the camera with the bundled charger, you can even use microUSB 2.0 cables to charge it.
What’s Bad?
Canon G5X offers a 20-megapixel resolution but there’s only 4.2X optical zoom support and that, for us, is a deal breaker. Also, people opting for a point-and-shoot camera these days are looking to grab an add-on camera option for their DSLRs.
The other part about G5X that may not catch your fancy is its limitation to shooting videos in 1080p resolution, this at a time when 4K-ready solutions are available with smartphones. Canon has gone with the 24-100mm equivalent focal range and bright f/1.8-2.8 maximum aperture that was available with the G7X previously.
Resulting images are well detailed, however, we noticed colour disparity which shows up in varying temperature and settings when the camera is turned to manual mode.
Why Buy It?
For Rs 49,995 Canon G5X is tailor-made for people looking to switch between their DSLRs and point-and-shoot cameras that offer them the chance to share images on-the-go.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)