Canon G7 X Mark II Review: A Capable Pocket Camera?

Originally published in April 2020. Updated in September 2026.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is an older premium compact camera built around a 20.1-megapixel 1-inch sensor and a bright 24–100mm-equivalent f/1.8–2.8 zoom lens. It was introduced in 2016, but its useful lens, pocketable body and straightforward controls still make it relevant on the used market.

It is not the best choice for everyone in 2026. It has no 4K recording, no microphone input and an autofocus system that feels dated beside current mirrorless cameras and newer phones. However, photographers who value RAW files, real optical zoom, manual exposure and good image quality in a small camera may still find plenty to like.

Canon G7 X Mark II at a glance

Feature	Specification
Sensor	20.1MP 1-inch CMOS
Processor	DIGIC 7
Lens	24–100mm equivalent, f/1.8–2.8, 4.2x optical zoom
ISO range	ISO 125–12,800
Continuous shooting	Up to 8 fps, with limitations depending on focus and file settings
Video	Full HD up to 60p; no 4K
Screen	3-inch tilting touchscreen
Connectivity	Wi-Fi and NFC
Viewfinder	None
Microphone input	None
Rated battery life	Approximately 265 shots under CIPA testing

Image quality

The 1-inch sensor is the main reason to consider the G7 X Mark II instead of a basic point-and-shoot camera. It is substantially larger than the sensors used in many inexpensive compacts, which helps it capture more detail and produce cleaner files in difficult light.

At low ISO settings, the camera can produce detailed JPEG and RAW images with pleasing colour. RAW capture gives you more freedom to recover highlights, adjust white balance and control noise during editing. The sensor does not match a recent APS-C or full-frame camera for dynamic range or high-ISO performance, but it remains capable for travel, family photographs, street photography and online content.

ISO 125–800 is the comfortable range when image quality matters most. ISO 1600 and 3200 can still be useful with careful exposure and modest output sizes, while the highest settings are best treated as emergency options. For a clearer explanation of how sensitivity affects noise and shutter speed, see our guide to camera ISO.

The 24–100mm f/1.8–2.8 lens

The built-in lens is one of the camera’s strongest features. Its 24mm-equivalent wide end suits landscapes, interiors and group photographs, while 100mm provides a useful short-telephoto perspective for portraits and details. This range covers far more situations than a phone’s main camera without requiring interchangeable lenses.

The maximum aperture starts at f/1.8 and gradually closes to f/2.8 as you zoom. That is bright for a compact zoom and helps the camera use lower ISO settings indoors. It also allows some background separation, particularly at longer focal lengths and short focusing distances. The effect is not as strong as it would be with a large-sensor camera and a fast prime lens, but it is meaningful for a pocket camera. Our aperture guide explains the relationship between f-number, light and depth of field.

Autofocus and shooting speed

The G7 X Mark II uses contrast-detection autofocus. It is generally dependable for static subjects in good light and face detection is useful for casual portraits. The touchscreen also makes it easy to select a focus point.

Its limitations become clearer with moving subjects, low-contrast scenes and video. Tracking is not comparable with the phase-detection systems in current mirrorless cameras. Although Canon quotes continuous shooting at up to 8 frames per second, focus behaviour, buffer depth and file type affect the practical result. It can capture brief moments of action, but it is not a sports or wildlife specialist.

Controls and handling

The body is compact enough for a jacket pocket or small bag, yet it offers more direct control than most phones. A mode dial, exposure-compensation dial, rear control wheel and control ring around the lens provide access to the settings photographers use most often.

The 3-inch touchscreen tilts upward for self-portraits and low-angle framing and downward for shooting above a crowd. It is useful, but there is no electronic viewfinder. In strong sunlight, composing on the rear display can therefore be less comfortable than using a camera with an EVF.

The built-in optical image stabilisation helps reduce blur from hand movement at slower shutter speeds. It does not freeze a moving subject, so you still need an appropriate shutter speed for people, pets or action. See our guide to shutter speed for practical examples.

Video and vlogging

The camera records Full HD video at up to 60 frames per second. The bright lens, tilting screen and compact body make it convenient for casual clips, travel diaries and simple talking-to-camera footage. Manual exposure control is also available.

For serious video work, its age shows. There is no 4K, no external microphone socket and no headphone output. Autofocus can also hesitate or shift visibly during recording. The screen tilts up rather than articulating to the side, so accessories mounted above the camera may obstruct it. A modern creator who prioritises video will usually be better served by a newer model or a mirrorless camera.

Connectivity and battery life

Built-in Wi-Fi allows images to be transferred to a compatible phone through Canon’s Camera Connect app. NFC can simplify pairing with compatible Android devices, although current phones and operating-system versions may behave differently from those available when the camera was launched. Canon’s official Camera Connect information is the best place to check current compatibility.

Battery life is modest, at roughly 265 shots under standard CIPA testing. Real-world results depend on screen use, Wi-Fi, reviewing images and video recording. A spare genuine or reputable compatible battery is sensible for travel. The camera charges over USB in supported conditions, but buyers should confirm that a used example includes the correct battery and charging equipment.

Who should buy it?

The Canon G7 X Mark II makes the most sense as a used purchase for someone who wants a genuinely compact camera with a bright zoom lens, RAW files and manual controls. It is particularly well suited to:

• travel and everyday photography;
• family events and casual portraits;
• photographers learning manual exposure;
• people who want optical zoom without carrying extra lenses;
• simple Full HD video where an external microphone is not required.

It is a weaker choice for fast sports, wildlife, 4K production, dependable continuous video autofocus or anyone who needs an electronic viewfinder. If video is the main priority, compare its price with newer alternatives before buying.

Buying a used G7 X Mark II

Because many examples are now several years old, condition matters more than a small difference in price. Check that the lens extends and retracts smoothly, the lens-cover blades close properly, the touchscreen responds across its full area and the zoom lever works consistently. Test autofocus at both ends of the zoom range and inspect sample images for dust, unusual softness or stabilisation errors.

Also inspect the battery compartment, USB and HDMI ports, pop-up flash and tripod socket. Ask whether the camera has been dropped or exposed to sand or moisture. A heavily worn battery may need immediate replacement, so include that cost when comparing listings.

Advantages and limitations

Final verdict

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II remains a capable photographic tool when judged for what it is: a small premium compact with a bright, versatile lens. Its still-image quality, RAW support and controls can offer a more deliberate experience than a phone, while its size makes it far easier to carry than an interchangeable-lens kit.

Its value in 2026 depends heavily on price and condition. At a sensible used price, it can be an excellent travel or everyday camera. At an inflated price, its missing 4K, older autofocus and limited audio options make newer alternatives more attractive.

Check current Canon G7 X Mark II availability on Amazon.

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