Canon PowerShot G12

The Canon G12 is such a substantial camera, that it feels wrong to title it simple as a “point-and-shoot.” While it doesn’t hold a candle to fixed-lens juggernauts like the Fuji X100, its size, customizability, image quality, and accessory options—not...

Tank-like build feels like it can take a pounding. Tons of external controls on the camera body will bring out the pro in you. Locking down the resolution at 10 MP means it's a better performer in low light. Very good 720p HD capture with stereo sound....

Even lower-priced competing models offer higher-resolution 1080p HD video capture. Only digital zooming during video capture degrades quality. Imaging sensor is still tiny, though other advanced compacts have gone big. Antiquated menu system

Superior image and video quality ; Optical viewfinder ; Easy to use ; Superb blend of automated and manual controls ; Adjustable, swiveling LCD screen ; Fun-to-use creative scene modes

Maximum aperture of F2.8 ; A bit bulky

The G12 delivers excellent image and video quality, and it backs up its manual controls with fun scene modes, an optical viewfinder, and a tilt-and-swivel LCD screen.

Well built frame ; Useful new front control wheel ; Produced beautiful 10M photos ; Nice 5x optical zoom lens with true optical image stabilization ; Fast f/2.8 aperture aids with low-light performance ; Fast AF system, even in low light thanks to...

It's still very easy to accidentally move the Exposure Compensation dial, which can cause images to be over or under exposed ; Space between LCD and rear control wheel is a bit cramped ; Excessive amounts of Red-eye with Red-eye Reduction Lamp on, and...

Very good picture quality ; Low noise even in very low light ; Tweaks galore ; HDR a great option for still subjects

Expensive ; Too much noise at elevated ISOs ; No dedicated video button ; May be the end of an era

Canon's G12 introduces HD video recording, in-camera HDR capabilities, and a number of other subtle updates to the well-respected, but expensive, G series.

Very good image quality for a compact camera. Optical viewfinder. Manual controls. Articulating LCD

Pricey. Bulky. Small sensor for such a big camera

The Canon PowerShot G12's images and features are excellent for a point-and-shoot camera, but at its size and price, you can get far better.

Enthusiasts who want the maximum manual control in a compact (ish) package

Video enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a slim, portable compact.

Although barely a year separates the release of the two models, the Canon Powershot G12 was launched into a considerably more competitive market than its predecessor the G11. Despite this, Canon hasn't felt the need to make a huge number of changes in...

Chockablock with manual controls; Ditto for hardware features

Disappointing color accuracy; Heavy distortion at the wide angle

The Canon G12 is such a substantial camera, that it feels wrong to title it simple as a “point-and-shoot.” While it doesn’t hold a candle to fixed-lens juggernauts like the Fuji X100, its size, customizability, image quality, and accessory options—not...

The top dial controls, where you set exposure compensation, ISO and choose various shooting modes, are one of the true charms of the camera. The upper back of the camera has an exposure lock button, which you can use to work with the essentially live...