Canon has been at the forefront of technological changes. The company has introduced some iconic cameras, which include popular point and shoot models such as the SX740 HS and the ELPH 360. As demand for compact cameras persists, the company is keen to cater to them. Per a new report, Canon may have something special planned for compact camera users. Here’s what to expect.
Additional reporting provided by Chris Gampat.
Canon Rumors’ new report suggests that the company will launch their next model with a new sensor. The device is said to launch in Q4, around the shopping season. The report says that the new sensor will feature a sensor that is smaller than the 1.4-inch seen on the PowerShot V1. However, it will be “more advanced,” and this leads to speculations a 1-inch sensor with BSI stacked design.
For context, the sensor landscape in Canon’s current compact lineup looks like this:
- PowerShot V1: 1.4-inch sensor
- G7X Mk III: 1-inch sensor
- G1X Mk III: APS-C sensor
A Canon-made sensor would result in faster readout speeds, better low-light performance, and improved dynamic range, especially compared to the aging G7 X III’s sensor. Stacked design, on the other hand, will also separate this camera from its predecessor. In fact, if true, this technology can also be translated to Canon’s full frame cameras, given that many brands are reportedly researching and developing stacked sensor designs.
Designs like this cater to more videocentric devices.
The article also suggests that the company will introduce at least two models, one of which may resemble the G7X and the other will be an iteration in the SX series. The former is designed for portraits and street photography, while the latter will cater to travel photographers who want a telephoto lens, without carrying extra gear. Moreover, the price range is between $800–$1,000, meaning this will be not for entry-level photographers but enthusiasts.
The camera, in some ways, will compete with Sony’s RX100 series, which have been the go-to point and shoot for many young photographers. There is also the Fujifilm X100VI, whose rise has not yet dropped. The GR series is another competitor, which has a larger sensor.
In addition to the sensor, Canon photographers have also shared their wishlist, with some noting the evident lack of an EVF. Some also have expressed the lack of good RAW files on cameras with super-zoom lenses. On the other hand, some photographers are not optimistic, as they believe the new camera will be an upgraded G7X that costs $1,300 or more. Similarly, some want the company to offer up to 200mm zoom in the compact body.
Overall, a new sensor is a good idea, especially since point and shoots are ideal for those who want better zooming cameras than their phone. The return of the Nikon P1100 simply explains that. It remains to be seen what Canon finally unveils. For now, we hope it is not a mere firmware upgrade in a form of a new camera.
Considering that Canon is bound to target this camera more at the creator market than for photographers, we’re pretty confident in saying that this report is accurate. What we still wonder about is why Canon won’t make a full-frame compact or even an APS-C compact camera meant for photographers.