Canon G11 vs Panasonic LX3

Canon G11 vs Panasonic LX3: A Hands-On, Real-World Compact Camera Shootout

When it comes to small sensor compacts that serious photographers can still love, the Canon PowerShot G11 and Panasonic Lumix LX3 stand out as two classic contenders. Both cameras arrived on the scene over a decade ago and have since earned cult followings for punching well above their size and sensor class. Having spent countless hours putting these two through their paces - side by side, both in the studio and out in the wild - I’m excited to share what these little cameras really bring to the table in 2024.

This comparison isn’t about flashy specs or marketing buzzwords (although we’ll cover those too). Instead, I’ll lean on years of hands-on experience, lab-style testing, and real shooting situations across every major photography genre - from portraits and landscapes to wildlife, street, and video. If you’re contemplating either camera for your next rig - maybe because you value compactness without sacrificing control - this deep dive will guide you straight to the heart of what matters.

Let’s jump right in.

How They Compare At First Glance: Size, Handling & Build

Touching both cameras side by side offers an immediate feel for how their designs approach the same goal from slightly different priorities.

The Canon G11 definitely feels chunkier and more substantial in hand. Its heft (375g) and boxier shape cater to photographers who want solid frontal grip and a more traditional camera feel. That extra size houses a fully articulated 2.8” LCD screen - a rarity in this category (and a big plus when shooting from tricky angles).

In comparison, the Panasonic LX3 trims the thickness significantly, weighing just 265g and sporting a slim profile. The fixed, slightly larger 3” LCD screen offers a brighter viewing area but no articulation. This difference alone sways usability depending on your shooting style: G11 lets you frame from above, below, or around corners; LX3 stays straightforward.

Looking down on controls, the G11 offers clubs-for-thumbs dial and buttons, deliberate in placement to support quick changes while shooting. The LX3 keeps controls minimal and streamlined, emphasizing portability over thumb-club ergonomics. I found the G11’s manual controls just a shade easier to reach without having to change grip.

Build quality and environmental sealing: Neither camera is ruggedized. No dust- or splash-proofing here, so be mindful when shooting outdoors in rough weather. Yet, both feel well-constructed for their class, with sturdy chassis that instill confidence.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Here’s where enthusiasts tend to get picky. Both cameras use 10MP CCD sensors of roughly similar size: 1/1.7" for the G11 vs 1/1.63" for the LX3 (the LX3 sensor area edges slightly larger at about 44.87 mm² compared to G11’s 41.52 mm²).

What does this mean in practical terms? CCDs in this size range rarely outperform larger APS-C or full-frame sensors in noise and dynamic range, but they still have their charm in color rendition and tonal gradation.

DxOMark scores (useful benchmarks but not gospel) show the G11 leads slightly in overall score (47 vs. 39), color depth (20.4 bits vs 19.6), dynamic range (11.1 EV vs 10.8 EV), and notably in low-light ISO performance (169 vs 94).

I put both cameras through controlled ISO tests and real-world shadow retrieval situations. The G11’s slightly better dynamic range translated to more recoverable detail in deep shadows and its color rendering tended toward neutral, pleasing skin tones without oversaturation.

The LX3, despite lower DxOMark results, delivers punchy colors and excellent JPEG engine tuning, often rendering photos that “pop” straight out of camera. Noise is more evident at higher ISO, but its fast lens compensates well for low-light scenarios (more on that soon).

Screens and Viewfinders: Framing and Reviewing Shots

Neither camera has an electronic viewfinder, but their approaches to framing are distinct.

The G11 sports an optical tunnel viewfinder - helpful in bright light when LCD viewing is tough, but limited in accuracy and coverage (roughly 80-85%). The fully articulating 2.8” screen has modest resolution (461k dots), but flexibility wins points especially for video or macro shooting.

The LX3 forgoes a viewfinder, relying exclusively on its fixed 3” LCD (460k dots). While it lacks articulation, this larger fixed screen feels bright and detailed, aiding quick composition and review on the fly. Unfortunately, no touch input here.

In bright daylight, both LCDs can be a bit of a struggle. Canon’s tilt helps you angle it away from glare, but Panasonic’s brighter display is a slight edge otherwise.

Lens Quality and Flexibility: Zooms, Aperture, and Macro

This is another critical area for compact aficionados who judge not just sensor specs but the glass in front of it.

The Canon G11 features a 5x optical zoom lens covering 28-140mm (35mm equivalent) with an aperture range f/2.8-4.5. While the aperture narrows as you zoom telephoto, it’s respectable for a compact zoom.

The Panasonic LX3 sports a tighter zoom range at 24-60mm (2.5x zoom) but makes up for it with a brighter lens: f/2.0-2.8 - significantly faster at the wide-ish end. This means better low-light performance and more flexibility creating shallow depth of field effects, especially in close-up and portrait work.

Macro focusing is close on both, allowing sharp captures from just 1cm away. This capability impressed when shooting flowers and textured subjects.

In terms of sharpness and distortion, both lenses perform well. The LX3’s faster wide-angle is often my go-to for indoor and street work due to its nimbleness and crispness. The G11 offers more reach, which can become handy for travel or wildlife snapshots when lugging minimal gear.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Where the G11 and LX3 Diverge

Let’s talk focusing: both employ contrast-detection autofocus typical of compacts in this era, but with different capabilities.

Canon’s 9-point AF system includes face detection and continuous AF modes, giving it a mild edge for moving subjects and portraits. Tracking and burst frame rates, however, are underwhelming. The G11 tops out at about 1 fps continuous shooting - a snail’s pace for sports or wildlife enthusiasts.

By contrast, Panasonic’s LX3 autofocus is simpler and slower, lacking face detection, and shoots continuous bursts at a more respectable 3 fps, albeit with some slowdown in buffer.

In real-world testing for portraiture and street shooting, the G11’s AF accuracy shines. For fast action or wildlife, neither camera is ideal, though LX3’s burst rate is marginally better for snapping quick moments.

Portraits: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Neither camera has large sensors or fast primes, so don’t expect creamy bokeh or razor-sharp eye detection like mirrorless or DSLR flagships. Still, each delivers respectable portraiture within their limitations.

The G11’s lens aperture maxes at f/2.8 wide-angle and f/4.5 at telephoto, but its face detection autofocus helps nail critical focus on faces. Skin tones come across neutral and natural, favoring realistic renderings with balanced saturation and color accuracy.

The LX3’s f/2.0 aperture wins here for isolating subjects and soft backgrounds, particularly wide open. It doesn’t have face or eye detection AF, so autofocus patience and manual focus assist are advisable for best results. Colours trend slightly warmer and punchier, which works well for lifestyle or candid portraits.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range, Resolution, and Weather Considerations

Landscape shooters will appreciate the G11’s slight dynamic range advantage, which can help retain highlight and shadow detail in challenging light. Both cameras output 10MP resolution - adequate for moderate cropping and large prints.

Neither camera is weather sealed, so extra care with rain or dusty conditions is essential.

The G11’s articulated screen is highly useful when positioning near-ground shots amidst rocks or foliage.

Panasonic’s lens equates roughly to 24mm wide angle, slightly wider than Canon’s 28mm, giving an edge for expansive scene coverage. Its maximum aperture is less relevant for landscapes, which favor smaller apertures (f/8–f/11) anyway.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus speed, Reach, and Frame Rates

If you’re chasing fast critters or action, neither camera is a sports beast.

The G11’s telephoto reach to 140mm with stabilized optics helps pull distant subjects closer, but its sluggish 1 fps shooting and modest AF speed hinder consistently sharp captures of fast movement.

The LX3’s faster 3 fps burst rate is attractive here but zoom tops out at 60mm, restricting framing ability. Lower light autofocus lag keeps you guessing on quick-moving wildlife.

Both cameras are better-suited for casual wildlife or sports snaps rather than serious tracking or professional bursts.

Street Photography: Discretion, Low-Light, and Portability

Street shooters prioritize discretion, speed, and punctuation of the moment.

Panasonic’s compact, light LX3 shines here thanks to silent operation, smaller size, and excellent low-light lens speed of f/2.0. Sure, no viewfinder but the large, bright LCD suffices for quick framing.

Canon G11’s bulkier size and noisier shutter tend to draw more attention, but articulating screen and face detection assist in tricky light or unpredictable scenes.

Both cameras deliver good image quality for street scenarios, but LX3’s portability makes it a more stealthy companion.

Macro Close-Ups: Magnification, Focus Precision, and Stabilization

Macro enthusiasts will find both cameras rewarding. With minimum focusing distances near 1cm and optical stabilizers onboard, close-ups reveal fine details with sharpness and color.

G11 edges slightly due to optical image stabilization paired with versatile articulation, allowing more creative framing - especially on low tripod or awkward angles.

LX3, though lacking articulation, benefits from a snappy lens aperture and sharp optics that preserve detail beautifully.

Night and Astrophotography: ISO Performance and Long Exposure

Low-light photography challenges small-sensor compacts, but here, Canon’s G11 generally leads.

Its better ISO performance and a max native ISO of 3200 (vs LX3’s 6400, though noisier) allow for more usable low-light shots.

Long exposure options also tip favorably to G11 with shutter speed down to 15 seconds (compared to LX3’s minimum 60s, which is ironically longer but less customizable).

Astrophotographers and night shooters will face noise challenges with either, but G11 gives more headroom before noise degrades images.

Video: Resolution, Stabilization, and Audio

Video shooters should weigh limits carefully.

The G11’s video maxes at 640x480 at 30 fps (CIF resolution) - a dinosaur in today’s standards.

Meanwhile, the LX3 boasts 720p HD (1280x720) at 24fps, a meaningful upgrade for casual video.

Neither camera has external mic or headphone jacks, and stabilization helps a bit - but neither supports modern log or flat profiles.

For occasional clips and casual video, LX3’s HD ability is worthwhile. G11’s video is mostly a bonus feature not to be heavily relied on.

Travel Photography: Versatility, Battery Life, and Size/Weight

Travel demands compromises, but these two mini workhorses bring notable pros.

The G11’s zoom versatility and articulated LCD suit various shooting scenarios but add bulk and weight impacting pocketability.

LX3’s compactness, brighter lens, and better burst speed favor candid travel snaps and street scenes, though zoom limitations might require creative framing.

Battery lives are comparable but modest; packing spares is wise.

Professional Uses: Reliability, File Flexibility, and Workflow

Neither camera targets professional heavy lifting but both support RAW capture (a big plus!), allowing advanced post-processing.

Manual control dials and exposure options make either capable tools for secondary shoots or quick editorial assignments.

The Canon G11 has the edge for pros needing more control, articulated LCD, and face detection autofocus that plays nicely with portrait work.

Panasonic LX3 shines as a high-quality pocket option when size or discretion trumps everything.

Connectivity and Storage: Modern Expectations vs Realities

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity (WiFi, Bluetooth, or NFC), HDMI port only available on Canon G11 (though older standard), and USB 2.0 for file transfer.

Both use common SD card formats with single slots and modest storage options. No dual slots or ultra-fast card options here, so keep an eye on capacity during extended shoots.

Price and Value: What Your Dollar Buys in 2024

New prices originally hovered around $600 for Canon G11 and $450 for Panasonic LX3, with both now found used or refurbished for bargains.

Given today’s camera market, enthusiasts with budget constraints might prize the LX3’s compactness, lens speed, and video capability for under $500.

The Canon G11 is worth the premium if you want more zoom, articulated screen, better low-light image quality, and more complete manual controls.

Summing It Up: What Each Camera Excels At - Pros and Cons at a Glance

Canon PowerShot G11 - Pros

• Articulated 2.8” LCD for flexible composition
• Optical viewfinder (helpful in bright light)
• Superior dynamic range and slightly better low light ISO
• 5x zoom lens (28-140mm) extends reach
• Face detection autofocus aids portraits
• Raw capture supported

Canon PowerShot G11 - Cons

• Bulkier, heavier than LX3
• Single fps continuous shooting limits action use
• Lower video resolution (VGA only)
• No wireless connectivity

Panasonic Lumix LX3 - Pros

• Compact, lightweight and slim design
• Brighter, faster lens (f/2.0-2.8) great for low light and shallow depth
• Higher max ISO (though more noise)
• 720p HD video recording
• Faster continuous shooting (3 fps)
• Larger, bright 3” LCD (although fixed)

Panasonic Lumix LX3 - Cons

• Limited zoom range (24-60mm)
• No viewfinder or face detection AF
• No articulation on rear screen
• Slightly lower image quality metrics in low light and dynamic range

Canon G11 front Canon G11 screen back Panasonic LX3 front Panasonic LX3 screen back

How These Two Compact Classics Score Overall and By Genre

From my evaluation and testing data, the G11 scores better for portraits, landscape, and low-light situations. The Panasonic LX3 sits comfortably at the top for street, travel, and casual video use.

Final Verdict: Which Compact is Your Best Fit?

Both cameras reflect careful engineering optimized for distinct priorities in a compact form.

Choose the Canon G11 if:

• You want a traditional camera feel with lots of manual control
• You value an articulated LCD for creative angle shooting
• You need more reach in a compact zoom lens
• Portrait-focused face detection autofocus matters

Choose the Panasonic LX3 if:

• You crave a smaller, lighter camera for street and travel discretion
• Fast lens aperture for low light and shallow depth of field is a must
• You want HD video capability (albeit entry-level)
• Burst mode speed to catch fleeting moments is important

Parting Thoughts From a Cheapskate Camera Geek

What impresses me most about these twin giants of the compact sensor compact niche is how relevant they remain despite age and limitations. They prove there’s immense value in cameras thoughtfully designed with real photographers in mind - not just pixels and specs.

While neither beats modern mirrorless systems in outright image quality or autofocus sophistication, they shine for enthusiasts who prize manual control, lens quality, and classic ergonomics - all in a pocket-friendly package. Both are just a few clicks away on the used market, making them budget-friendly options for those wanting a capable “backup” or travel camera.

If you love photography on your terms - and savor squeezing every ounce of creativity out of hardware that respects your input - the Canon G11 and Panasonic LX3 are treasures worthy of your attention.

Happy shooting!

If you want a rundown on specific workflows, custom setups, or real-world usage tips with either compact classic, just ask. I’ve lived and breathed these two cameras for years and can tailor advice to your shooting style.