Review of the Canon PowerShot G9

www.canon.co.uk
Features
Canon has finally seen fit to up the stakes and re-introduce the Raw shooting mode that previous PowerShot users had been pining for. The sensor of the G9 has had a two-megapixel increase over the G7, now at an effective 12.1MP; while the LCD screen has also been enlarged, now dominating the back of the unit at three inches with a slightly increased pixel count and PureColour II technology.
As was the case in the G7, a DIGIC III processor, stabilised 6x optical zoom lens and 80-1600 ISO: range feature, although the ISO: can now be extended to 3200 in 2MP capture. The Face Detection system sees the introduction of a Face Detect and Track System, that can select and track an individual face out of a maximum 35, while the FlexiZone focusing system allows a single AF point to be moved to a greater degree around the frame.
The same hotshoe and compatibility with conversion lenses remains, though the model is now additionally compatible with Canon’s ST-E2 wireless flash transmitter, with flash functionality itself also having been expanded.

Design
Aside from the increased size of the LCD, the design of the G9 has been kept much the same as its predecessor. It’s by no means a small compact but the extra improvements over the G7 model have not added anything whatsoever to its overall weight or size. Inspired by the design of a traditional rangefinder, a dedicated ISO: dial remains on top of the camera while a multi-control dial encircles the main menu pad. The viewfinder is clear, with its only failing being that it is partially obscured by the protrusion of the lens at the wideangle end.

Performance
The DIGIC III processor no doubt plays its part in improving the overall operational speed of the G9, as has been demonstrated in other recent DIGIC III-equipped compacts. The bright LCD screen benefits greatly from both its size and clarity and is a joy to shoot and view images with. Image reviewing does take its time if done via the menu pad; using the multi-control dial not only speeds through the images and thumbnails but does so along with displaying the time and date of their capture.

Value
Everything you could possibly need in an enthusiast’s compact and a great deal more is included in the G9, and given that the camera can now be found for around £100 less than its RRP, it seems, on paper, to represent great value for money. This is, however, hampered by certain flaws in image quality which, for this price, shouldn’t really be there.

Our Verdict
Canon’s PowerShot G9 performs very well across the board, with a fantastically detailed LCD screen, great functionality and good images.

What We Like
LCD screen, Noise control

What We Don't Like
Minor image flaws

Features: 18
Design: 17
Performance: 18
Image Quality: 18
Value: 18

What Digital Camera Score 89%