Camera Review: Canon G7 X Mark II
The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, while not designed specifically as an underwater camera, can become an excellent and versatile photo rig for both macro and wide-angle underwater photography when paired with a suitable underwater housing. Here’s a detailed look at the key improvements, new features, and real-world differences of the Canon G7 X Mark II, compared to its predecessor.
The Canon G7 X Mark II boasts several significant upgrades, starting with the introduction of Canon’s DIGIC 7 image processor. This enabled faster autofocus, improved noise reduction, and better overall image processing, especially in low-light conditions. The Mark II also offers a much faster continuous shooting speed—up to 8 frames per second (fps) compared to the original’s 6.5 fps—making it better for capturing action.
Physical and functional upgrades include a 3-inch, 180-degree upward-tilting LCD touchscreen, making it ideal for vlogging and selfies. Despite a similar battery size, the Mark II’s improved efficiency resulted in noticeably longer battery life per charge. Other improvements include a built-in neutral density (ND) filter, direct Wi-Fi/Low-Energy Bluetooth, a simplified menu system, and a redesigned grip for better handling.
In terms of visual and video capabilities, both cameras share a 24–100mm f/1.8–2.8 lens, but the Mark II’s improved processor allows for better sharpness and color rendition. The Mark II’s DIGIC 7 processor also improves video autofocus and overall quality. However, neither model offers 4K video—a common feature in newer compact cameras.
For underwater use, neither the G7 X nor the G7 X Mark II is waterproof or ruggedized—both require a third-party underwater housing for submerged photography. The Mark II’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities could be advantageous for remote operation when the camera is in a housing, though practical use underwater may be limited. The built-in ND filter is particularly useful for controlling exposure in bright underwater environments, where light can be intense and variable. The Mark II’s tilting touchscreen makes it easier to compose shots at awkward angles, which is helpful when diving or snorkeling with a housing.
Several leading manufacturers offer Canon G7 X Mark II housings, including Ikelite, Bluewater Photo, Fantasea, Nauticam, and Recsea. The Ikelite Canon G7X Mark II Housing is compact, lightweight, and can operate the camera up to 200 feet (60m) deep. Recsea also offers an aluminum housing for the Canon G7X Mark II, rated to 100 meters.
In summary, the Canon G7 X Mark II improved upon the original G7 X with a faster processor, enhanced autofocus, a tilting touchscreen, built-in ND filter, longer battery life, and better wireless connectivity. These upgrades make it a more capable and user-friendly camera for both stills and video—especially valuable when shooting in challenging conditions, including underwater (with appropriate housing). However, for true underwater adventures without a housing, a purpose-built rugged camera like the OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 is a better choice.
| Feature | Canon G7 X | Canon G7 X Mark II | |--------------------------|----------------------|-------------------------------| | Processor | DIGIC 6 | DIGIC 7 | | Continuous Shooting | 6.5 fps | 8 fps | | LCD Screen | Tilt-only | Tilt-up, touchscreen | | ND Filter | No | Yes | | Wi-Fi/Bluetooth | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi + Bluetooth | | Battery Life | Standard | Improved | | Menu System | Standard | Simplified | | Ergonomics | Standard | Improved grip | | Underwater Use | Requires housing | Requires housing |
- The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, while not designed for underwater photography, can serve excellently for both macro and wide-angle underwater shots when paired with a suitable underwater housing.
- The Mark II's introduction of Canon’s DIGIC 7 image processor enhances faster autofocus, improved noise reduction, and better overall image processing, especially in low-light conditions.
- In bright underwater environments, the Mark II’s built-in neutral density (ND) filter provides control over exposure.
- When diving or snorkeling with a housing, the Mark II’s tilting touchscreen eases the composition of shots at awkward angles.
- Along with improvements like a faster continuous shooting speed and longer battery life, the Mark II offers a simplified menu system and a redesigned grip for better handling.
- For underwater use, leading manufacturers like Ikelite, Bluewater Photo, Fantasea, Nauticam, and Recsea produce Canon G7 X Mark II housings, enabling operation up to 200 feet (60m) deep.
- In terms of photography workflow, editing software like Lightroom allows for post-processing adjustments to enhance the captured photos' colors, exposures, and other factors.
- The Macro setting on the Mark II allows for detailed close-up shots of small underwater subjects, while the Strobe gadget facilitates better lighting in darker underwater environments.
- When paired with a compact underwater housing, the Mark II's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities enable remote operation and control, making it a versatile photo rig for travel photography and underwater adventures.
- For true underwater adventures without a housing, a purpose-built rugged camera like the OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 may be a more suitable choice, offering waterproof, ruggedized construction and specialized features designed for underwater photography.
