Canon PowerShot G7 X Review – Design

Canon PowerShot G7 X control dials

The Canon G7 X certainly meets its compact credentials in terms of its dimensions, measuring in at 103 x 60.4 x 40.4mm and weighing in at just a touch over 300g.

As you might expect for an advanced compact, the model boasts a wide range of physical controls located around its body. One of the most welcome of these is a control ring which sits around the lens – a user-assignable dial which can be used for controlling ISO and shutter speed as well as aperture.

Unlike some other models’ aperture rings that can spin freely, that on the G7 X boasts a satisfying click for each stop in a way reminiscent of lens aperture control rings of yore.

Canon PowerShot G7 X rear

Solid controls

The model also features a welcome dedicated exposure compensation dial on its top plate, allowing for +/- 3EV stops of adjustment in 1/3 EV steps. This dial isn’t entirely without flaw however, as its location beneath the mode dial makes it difficult to adjust quickly without knocking the latter.

All of the other controls are sensibly located around the camera, while the raised rubber thumb rest on the rear of the model means it’s possible to get a solid grip on the camera’s body while shooting.

This solid grip and quality feel is further enhanced by the premium finish of the G7 X, with features such as the speckled metal body and red aluminium detailing really finishing the camera well.