CES 2012: Canon PowerShot G1-X 14.3MP Camera Makes Its Debut

While most of us were expecting for Canon to unveil a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera at this year’s CES, the company has instead announced a new PowerShot G-series snapper that improves upon the specs of the previous G12.

The most important addition brought by Canon to its new G1 X is the inclusion of a larger CMOS sensor that measures no less than 1.5-inch (18.7 x 14mm) in size.

Sporting a resolution of 14.3MP, this sensor is nearly as big as the APS-C models used in full-size DSLR and some of the best mirrorless cameras around.

Thanks to this modification, the G1 X should feature better low light performance than the G12, but in case that isn’t enough Canon has also increased the maximum ISO available in the camera to 12,800.

The 4X 28mm f/2.8-16 lens also helps in this regard, and joins a series of other advanced features like 14-bit RAW support and Speedlite flash compatibility, that have been previously reserved for EOS-series cameras.

The rest of the features list includes the usual PASM shooting modes, 1080p video recording, an electronic viewfinder (EVF), a built-in flash, and a rear mounted 3-inch 922k-dot LCD with full tilt and swivel support for taking a look at the images and video captured with the G1 X.

"The new additions to our PowerShot lineup further demonstrate Canon's commitment to delivering users innovative imaging products," said Yuichi Ishizuka executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A., Inc.

"These sleek and compact cameras bring together powerful features, intuitive controls and unrivaled portability while maintaining high image quality," concluded the company’s rep.

The estimated selling price of the Canon PowerShot G1 X camera is set at $799.99 (629 EUR) and according to Canon this is scheduled to be available in February of this year.