G9X MKII

The PowerShot G9 X Mark II is an ultra-compact camera that features a larger-than-average 1″-type CMOS sensor. It serves as the entry-level model in Canon’s Gx-X series, and has an MSRP of $529. Being the entry-level model, Canon has given the camera a touchscreen-based interface that will be familiar to smartphone owners who are looking to trade up to something better.

The main problems with the original G9 X were performance related. Continuous shooting was slow, especially when using Raw or continuous autofocus, the menus were sluggish and the battery didn’t last for long.

The G9 X Mark II took care of most of the performance problems, due mostly to its new DIGIC 7 processor. The burst rate is faster, buffer larger and interface snappier. While improved, battery life still isn’t great, though an ‘Eco mode’ gives you another 80 shots above the industry-standard CIPA estimate of 235. Canon also added in-camera Raw processing, Bluetooth capability and improved image stabilization for video shooting.