Canon G5 X Mark II vs Canon G7 X Mark III: An Expert Comparison for Photo Enthusiasts and Pros

When Canon announced the PowerShot G5 X Mark II and G7 X Mark III back in July 2019, it felt like a decisive moment for large-sensor compact cameras. Both pack impressive features in a pocketable package, each targeting photographers who want the best image quality without hauling DSLRs or mirrorless rigs. Having spent considerable time testing and photographing with both models, I’m here to demystify the real-world differences, advantages, and compromises so you can choose confidently.

Before diving in, here’s a quick snapshot comparison for orientation:

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics, and Control Layout

If you hunt primarily for a travel-friendly companion, size and feel matter as much as specs. Though both cameras boast a 1-inch BSI-CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 processor, their ergonomics diverge noticeably.

Canon G5 X Mark II’s design leans toward a slightly chunkier, more substantial grip with top dials for quick adjustments, reminiscent of classic compact cameras but with modern usability. The Leica-inspired pop-up electronic viewfinder (EVF) is a serious bonus if you prefer composing with your eye rather than exclusively with the LCD.

In contrast, the G7 X Mark III trims dimensions and weight a bit further. Canon sacrificed the EVF here, resulting in a thinner profile and lighter carry weight - welcome if pocketability and street discretion top your list. However, the lack of an EVF might be a dealbreaker for some, particularly in bright daylight scenarios.

Take a look at these control layouts from the top. Note the G5 X Mark II’s additional dial and EVF placement versus the sleeker top of the G7 X Mark III.

Personally, I found the G5 X Mark II’s ergonomics more versatile for outdoor shooting and extended handheld sessions thanks to the grip and tactile dials. But for quick street shots and vlogging, the G7 X Mark III’s compactness and touchscreen tilt mechanism make it a compelling contender.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Both cameras sport a 1-inch, 20MP BSI-CMOS sensor, practically identical in tech specs:

• Sensor Dimensions: 13.2 x 8.8 mm
• Resolution: 20MP (5472 x 3648 pixels)
• Maximum ISO: Native 12,800; boosted to 25,600
• Anti-aliasing filter: Yes

In lab and real-world usage, this sensor performs solidly in daylight and well-lit conditions, with natural color rendition and excellent detail retention. Skin tones on both models skew pleasingly warm and natural, a boon for portrait photographers.

Shooting RAW is supported extensively on both, providing latitude in post-processing - a must-have for professionals and serious enthusiasts. Canon’s DIGIC 8 processor handles noise reduction and image rendering adeptly, especially at mid ISOs (100-1600), balancing detail preservation with noise control.

In my controlled tests, I noticed subtle differences between the models mostly stemmed from lens optics and image processing tweaks rather than sensor hardware. The G5 X Mark II’s lens, covering 24-120mm equivalent focal length (5x zoom), offers wider reach than the G7 X Mark III’s 24-100mm (4.2x zoom). That extra telephoto range on the G5 X Mark II extends versatility in wildlife and portrait compositions without carrying extra glass.

LCD and Viewfinder: Your Window to the Scene

Both cameras feature a 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD with the same resolution (1040k dots), bright and clear for live view, composition, and menu navigation. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, responsive, and supports touch-to-focus on both models - critical for fast, precise subject acquisition.

However, the G5 X Mark II distinguishes itself with a built-in 2.36 million dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) covering 100% frame, which flips up with a smooth mechanism. This is an excellent feature for shooting in bright sunlight or for those who prefer eye-level stability when composing.

The G7 X Mark III’s lack of an EVF puts it slightly behind for usability in harsh outdoor lighting but slightly ahead in compactness.

See a side-by-side comparison of their back panels and screens here:

Personally, I gravitate toward cameras with an EVF for critical framing under varying light. But for casual shooting or vlogging (to which the G7 X Mark III’s flip-up screen lends itself well), the EVF omission is less painful.

Autofocus and Burst Performance: Capturing the Decisive Moment

Both cameras sport contrast-detection autofocus, with Canon’s algorithms providing respectable speed and accuracy in good lighting. They support face detection and Eye AF, key for portrait photography and event shooting.

Where things get interesting is continuous shooting speed: both support 30 fps burst mode, which Canon has tuned for large sensor compacts using the electronic shutter (max 1/25600s). That’s impressively fast in theory, although buffer depth and actual write speed can limit sustained shooting duration.

Neither model uses hybrid phase-detect AF, so action photographers should temper expectations in fast-paced sports or wildlife scenarios; contrast-detect AF can struggle with high-speed subjects or in low contrast areas.

That said, the G5 X Mark II’s longer zoom lens and EVF make it slightly more convenient for wildlife enthusiasts who want to nudge closer without heavy lenses, while the G7 X Mark III’s focus speed and tracking perform well enough for casual sports or events.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Should You Take Them Outdoors?

Unfortunately, neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or ruggedized protection. Both are built with standard magnesium alloy and polycarbonate composites - sturdy enough for general use but not designed for strenuous environmental conditions.

If your photography involves frequently shooting outdoors in challenging weather, I recommend pairing these cameras with protective cases or considering more weather-sealed alternatives in Canon’s lineup or from third parties.

Lens and Zoom Range Insights

The G5 X Mark II features a 24-120mm equivalent f/1.8 to f/2.8 5x zoom lens. This range is particularly useful for travel and general-purpose photography, offering greater telephoto reach to isolate subjects, capture portraits with pleasing background separation, or frame distant details in landscapes.

The G7 X Mark III’s 24-100mm f/1.8-f/2.8 lens, while slightly shorter in reach, still delivers excellent brightness and sharpness across the zoom range. The wider end remains the same, providing versatile wide-angle shots.

On image quality, both lenses are impressively sharp in center and reasonably sharp toward edges, with minimal distortion and chromatic aberrations. Optical image stabilization reduces handshake effectively, especially valuable in low light or telephoto ranges.

Macro capability is comparable between them, with close focusing distances around 5cm, fine for flower or detail shots.

Video Capabilities: Beyond Stills

Video shooters will appreciate both cameras’ UHD 4K video recording at 30 frames per second at a consistent 120 Mbps bitrate, using H.264 codec in MOV container.

However, the G7 X Mark III edges out on video usability by including a microphone input port - a boon for vloggers and content creators wanting better audio compared to the built-in mic. No headphone jack exists on either, which limits audio monitoring options.

Neither offers 4K 60p or 10-bit color internally, so professionals will want to look elsewhere for advanced cinema features, but casual and enthusiast videographers will find solid image quality with good dynamic range.

Besides 4K, both cameras support Full HD 1080p up to 120 fps for smooth slow-motion effects. Internal stabilization during video is commendable, reducing jitters for hand-held footage.

If you plan serious video work with external audio gear, lean toward the G7 X Mark III for the microphone port convenience.

Battery Life and Storage: The Practical Considerations

Battery life comes out nearly even: Canon rates roughly 230 shots per charge for G5 X Mark II, 235 for G7 X Mark III. That’s typical of large sensor compacts - enough for a day of moderate shooting but you’ll want spares for extended trips.

Both use proprietary Canon lithium-ion battery packs and support SD / SDHC / SDXC UHS-I cards. A single card slot on both models means you must manage storage and offload regularly rather than relying on redundancy.

As a side note: USB charging is convenient but slow - pack a dedicated charger for efficiency.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Wireless connectivity is built-in on both cameras, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote control and image transfers. Canon’s Camera Connect app provides decent functionality, letting you adjust basic camera settings or use live view remotely. It’s handy but not faultless; sometimes there’s delay or connectivity hiccups, typical of compact mirrorless-era models but worth testing yourself.

Neither includes NFC or GPS.

Value Assessment: Pricing and Who Should Consider Each Model

Current market prices at launch were:

• Canon G5 X Mark II: Approximately $900 USD
• Canon G7 X Mark III: Approximately $750 USD

You pay a roughly 15-20% premium for the G5 X Mark II’s extra zoom reach, EVF, and slightly bigger grip. For many, those features justify the cost differential.

If your budget is firmly capped under $800 and you prioritize compactness and video features (notably the microphone input), the G7 X Mark III is a fantastic choice. It punches well above its weight in image quality and portability.

If you want a more versatile zoom, an EVF for versatility, or generally richer ergonomics for photo-focused shooting, the G5 X Mark II deserves your consideration - especially for travel or wildlife snapshots where framing precision matters.

How These Cameras Stack Up Across Photography Genres

Let’s break down their relative strengths across common photography types:

• Portrait Photography: Both deliver excellent skin tones and pleasant bokeh thanks to the f/1.8-2.8 lenses and sensor quality. G5 X Mark II pulls ahead slightly for selective framing with its longer telephoto reach and EVF-assisted compose.

• Landscape Photography: Excellent dynamic range and resolution on both. Slight edge to G5 X Mark II for zoom range but no weather sealing on either means caution outdoors.

• Wildlife Photography: The G5 X Mark II’s extended 120mm equivalent range offers better subject capture at a distance, but autofocus speed is only moderate; expect some hunting.

• Sports Photography: Fast 30 fps burst and continuous AF options exist on both, but contrast-detection AF limits tracking agility. Neither is ideal for professional sports but fine for casual use.

• Street Photography: G7 X Mark III’s lack of EVF, smaller size, and quiet shutter make it more discreet and portable - ideal for urban explorations.

• Macro Photography: Both excel with close focusing to 5cm and strong image stabilization.

• Night / Astrophotography: Limited by 1-inch sensor size and max ISO constraints, but still decent noise control. No specialized astro modes, so neither excels here.

• Video Capabilities: G7 X Mark III's microphone input wins over G5 X Mark II for vloggers. Both offer good 4K quality.

• Travel Photography: G5 X Mark II favored for zoom versatility; G7 X Mark III for lighter, more compact carry.

• Professional Work: Neither replaces professional mirrorless or DSLR bodies - lack of weather sealing, limited AF cross points, and single card slot are bottlenecks.

Sample Images: Real-World Photo Quality Comparison

Here’s a gallery showcasing images shot on both cameras under various conditions - portraits, landscapes, low light, and telephoto crops. Study the sharpness, color rendition, and bokeh delicacy.

Canon G5 X MII front Canon G5 X MII screen back Canon G7 X MIII front Canon G7 X MIII screen back

The overall impression is that both cameras produce clean, punchy photos straight out of the box, with minor color or contrast tuning needed depending on your workflow.

Long-Term Reliability and Workflow Integration

From my experience with Canon compacts, the build quality here is solid for daily use, but cautious users should avoid exposure to dust and moisture without protective gear. As fixed-lens cameras, the simplicity offers reliability by eliminating lens mount wear issues.

File compatibility is excellent: JPEGs from both cameras play well with all major image editors; RAW files integrate smoothly into Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, and Canon's own DPP software.

Battery life and storage management aren't exceptional but are manageable with planning.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Both the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II and G7 X Mark III are impressive large sensor compacts that carve unique niches in the enthusiast market.

• Choose Canon G5 X Mark II if:

  • You want a built-in EVF for bright outdoor shooting.
  • You value longer telephoto reach without adding bulk.
  • You prioritize a more substantial grip and tactile controls.
  • You shoot a mix of portraits, wildlife, and travel and need versatility.

• Choose Canon G7 X Mark III if:

  • You want the lightest, most pocketable option.
  • Video and vlogging matter, especially with microphone input.
  • You prefer a quieter, more discreet street shooter.
  • Your budget is slightly tighter but you still expect great image quality.

Dear Canon, if you see this - I’d love to see hybrid phase-detect autofocus in the next update, and perhaps a proper headphone jack for monitoring video sound!

Overall, both cameras maintain Canon’s reputation for accessible, high-quality compacts that do a lot without the complexity or weight of interchangeable-lens systems. In my testing and hands-on use, I have found each fills a valuable gap depending on your shooting style.

Happy shooting, and if you’re in the market for premium pocket power, you can’t go wrong with either.

This comparison draws on extensive hands-on testing, controlled lab benchmarks, and field shooting experience across genres to ensure you get a balanced, trustworthy view tailored to your photographic aspirations.