Canon G1 X Mark II review

Canon seems to have returned to top premium compact form with the updated version of its G1 X camera.

Canon G1 X II
Although there's no viewfinder built-in, an optional EVF is available if you feel the need.

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Click here to see full resolution image.

The G1X II is suited to a wide range of shooting subjects, with a 5x optical zoom and a fast maximum aperture throughout the focal range.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Click here to see full resolution image.

Having a tilting screen makes it easier to compose from awkward angles, while using the screen to fire off the shutter release is handy if the camera is in a slightly awkward position.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Click here to see full resolution image.

The G1X II is capable of capturing very clean images at high sensitivity settings, such as ISO 3200.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Click here to see full resolution image.

Colours are bright and punchy directly from the camera.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Click here to see full resolution image.

The new closer focusing distance of 5cm allows you to get closer to the subject than the original G1X allowed.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Click here to see full resolution image.

At its widest point, the G1X Mark II offers a focal length of an equivalent of 24mm, allowing you to capture a wide view of the scene.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Click here to see full resolution image.

The 5x optical zoom offers an equivalent of 120mm, which should be flexible enough for the majority of shooting situations.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Click here to see full resolution image.

However, if you need extra length, you can engage the camera's digital zoom functionality, and although quality is somewhat diminished at this range, it is helpful if you need it.

Digital filters

Canon G1 X Mark II

No filter

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Nostalgic

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Fish-eye effect

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Miniature effect

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Toy camera effect (standard)

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Toy camera effect (cool)

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Toy camera effect (warm)

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Soft Focus

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Monochrome

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Super Vivid

Click here to see full resolution image.

Canon G1 X Mark II

Poster Effect

Click here to see full resolution image.

Amy Davies

Amy has been writing about cameras, photography and associated tech since 2009. Amy was once part of the photography testing team for Future Publishing working across TechRadar, Digital Camera, PhotoPlus, N Photo and Photography Week. For her photography, she has won awards and has been exhibited. She often partakes in unusual projects - including one intense year where she used a different camera every single day. Amy is currently the Features Editor at Amateur Photographer magazine, and in her increasingly little spare time works across a number of high-profile publications including Wired, Stuff, Digital Camera World, Expert Reviews, and just a little off-tangent, PetsRadar.