Can the New Canon G12 Match the Excellent G11?

Canon PowerShot G12

For a while now, the Canon G series has been something of a reference in the field of expert compact cameras. The PowerShot G12, Canon's tenth G-series camera, certainly has its work cut out for it, as it's deigned to replace what was perhaps the best model in the series so far, the G11. It also has a whole load of brand new competitors to keep at bay.

The expert compact seems to be making a comeback. Samsung has joined the race and Nikon is back on the scene with large-sensor compacts that make a good alternative choice. Plus, Canon itself even seems to be rivalling the G series with the S95, a more compact, more stylish, less bulky and just-as-expert model. The G12 therefore has its work cut out for it, especially given that the G11 was so very successful (good sensitivity, excellent lens, high-end handling and finish etc.).

On paper, the updates look fairly minor, as the G12 still has the same 10-Megapixel CCD and 28-140 mm lens as the G11. However, many of the innovations seen on the S95 (test coming next week) can also be found in this model, such as a hybrid stabilisation system (optimised for macro) and 720p HD video recorded in H.264 with stereo sound. Unfortunately though, you still can't zoom during video recording, something that's possible with Canon's lower-end SX130 (test also coming next week), which currently sells for well under £200.

Other improvements include an RGB histogram that allows you to detect exposure issues channel by channel, automatic sensitivity range settings and an electronic level (for the horizontal axis only).

The burst mode, often a disappointing feature in Canon's G range, has been truly revolutionised, as the G12 can now snap 1.9 frames per second! That may still seem pretty slow, but it's actually twice as fast as previous models.

The G12's design and handling is very similar to the G11. The only real difference is the reintroduction of a control ring positioned just under the index finger, which originally featured in G-series models up to the G5. Here, it has the same functions as the control ring in the S95, with the same custom settings. We're definitely pleased to see a few custom options finally available, as these have always lacked in G-series cameras (notably compared with Ricoh cameras).

The G12 is due for release in October for £539, pricing it at the higher end of the expert compact market, above rivals such as the Canon S95, Panasonic LX5, Samsung EX1 etc.

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