Super telephoto reach at a fraction of the size
Okay, so it may be more of a bridge camera than a true compact, but with its massive 25x optical zoom we couldn’t resist bringing the G3 X into our roundup of fixed lens releases. With its extensive 8.8-220mm barrel (24-600mm full-frame equivalent) its larger size can be forgiven, especially considering that achieving a similar focal length on a DSLR would usually involve a lens three times the size. However, while this superior focal range is to be applauded, the G3 X’s optic is not without its drawbacks. With a variable aperture of f/2.8-5.6, the lens sacrifices a wide constant aperture for more reach, forcing slower shutter speeds to be used when at its longest. This, combined with the lack of a built-in EVF (aiding support of the camera when held against the face), and a display that blacks out during its relatively slow 3.2fps burst mode for JPEGs, means it’s not as well suited for wildlife and sports as may first appear. The lens is fairly sharp, though some corner softness can be seen at all apertures. Distortion and chromatic aberration are, however, well controlled considering the lens’ massive zoom range. The 1in 20.9MP back-illuminated sensor is plucked straight from the much smaller G7 X, and while capable of better images than many compacts, it can’t rival the larger sensor found in the GR II. ISO range is 125-12,800.
The G3 X’s contrast-detect AF puts in a pleasing performance in well-lit conditions, but disappointingly slows down somewhat as light levels drop. The camera has tracking, face detection and touchscreen focus modes. The G3 X focuses at 5cm at its widest focal length, and 85cm at its longest. Focus peaking to aid with manual focusing is also present. The camera has lens-shift image stabilisation that compensates for 3.5 stops of shake, a built in 3-stop ND filter for shooting in bright light, and weather-resistant sealing. The rear display is a 3.2in touchscreen with an excellent 1620k-dot resolution and tilting mechanism. The camera has both Wi-Fi and NFC for speedy image transfer and remote shooting.
When it comes to video, the G3 X captures Full HD (1080p) at 60fps, and has inputs for an external mic and headphones. While this is a better set of features than some cheaper options, similar models already available from Panasonic and Sony do offer 4K recording. The camera has an in-built flash and a hotshoe for an external flashgun. Battery life is a reasonable 300 shots.
Verdict
The G3 X is a bit of an enigma. On one hand the camera offers impressive reach and some pleasing results. On the other its somewhat hit-or-miss feature-set doesn’t really complement its USP. With a £200 additional asking price for the external EVF, which is needed to take full advantage of its maximum zoom, the total price would be nearly £1000, bringing it in line with some very tempting competition, including DSLRs and CSCs.
Specs
Camera: Canon G3 X
Lens: 8.8–220mmf/2.8-5.6
Price: £799
Effective resolution: 20.9MP
Sensor: 13.2x8.8mm back-illuminated CMOS
LCD: 3.2in 1620k-dot touchscreen
EVF: No
Autofocus: Contrast
ISO: 125-12,800
Shooting speed: 1fps for unlimited RAW files
Video: Full HD (1080p) at 60fps
Battery life: 300 shots
Size (WxHxD): 123x77x105mm
Weight: 733g