Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III review

A unique compact, thanks to an APS-C sensor and zoom lens

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Verdict

The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III is certainly a big improvement over the undercooked G1 X Mark II. The fact that Canon has managed to engineer a camera this size with a large APS-C sensor is very impressive – and even more impressive is the fact that this is the first APS-C format compact camera to feature a zoom lens, making it something quite unique. 

The sticking point might be the asking price, especially when you compare this camera to DSLR or mirrorless rivals. However, if you're set on a premium all-in-one compact camera, the G1 X Mark III doesn't look that bad when you compare it to similarly priced rivals. The fabulous Fujifilm X100F costs more, but doesn't offer a zoom lens, while the slightly more affordable Sony RX100 V offers a longer zoom and snappier performance, but with a smaller 1-inch sensor. 

All things considered, Canon may have hit the sweet spot for enthusiast photographers looking for a compact partner for their DSLR kit, or for those looking for a versatile and neat all-in-one solution that delivers DSLR-quality images.

Competition

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Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V

Sony's Cyber-shot RX100 V is one of our favorite premium compact cameras. The 1-inch sensor is smaller than the one found in the G1 X Mark III, but images are very good, while the more pocket-sized proportions certainly have their appeal. Add in 4K video capture, 24fps burst shooting and a great AF system, and the RX100 V is one very capable compact camera.

Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V review 

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Phil Hall
Phil Hall

Phil Hall is an experienced writer and editor having worked on some of the largest photography magazines in the UK, and now edit the photography channel of TechRadar, the UK's biggest tech website and one of the largest in the world. He has also worked on numerous commercial projects, including working with manufacturers like Nikon and Fujifilm on bespoke printed and online camera guides, as well as writing technique blogs and copy for the John Lewis Technology guide.