Verdict

The PowerShot V1 is a long overdue new compact camera from Canon, coming almost six years after the G7X Mark III and G5X Mark II. During that time, we’ve seen demand decline for compacts, hence no new models, but then increase again to a point today where most have become back-ordered or resold at hugely inflated prices.

So before even talking about how it performs or compares, the V1 is very welcome camera, so long as Canon makes enough of them to satisfy demand. It may be positioned and officially priced above the G7X III, but ironically could end up costing less than scalpers are asking for that older model.

But be in no doubt the V1 is unashamedly aimed at video creators first, so there’s no viewfinder, no flash, nor standard hotshoe either, and it’s swapped the more standard zoom range of the G7X for one that’s much wider. This makes it less ideal for general photos, but perfect for handheld vlogging even with the crop from digital stabilisation. Plus it also features a built-in cooling fan to maximise recording times, and a surprisingly good built-in microphone with an effective wind muffler in the box.

The sensor being comfortably larger than the G7X series should also be seen as a big upgrade, but it’s coupled with a dimmer aperture lens that negates some of the benefit for noise and depth of field under the same conditions. But it should allow for greater dynamic range, plus there’s now also C-Log to make the most of it. And arguably most important, Dual Pixel AF on the new sensor now allows the V1 to refocus much more confidently than the G7X and G5X, banishing the wobbly focus-pulls that plagued those models.

I’d say most video creators will prefer it over the G7X III, and again it may end up being cheaper to buy too, but do compare it closely with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 which can be great for handheld filming and supports a wireless mic system without a separate receiver.

As a final word, while most companies are chasing the vlogging market, I would put in a word for the photographers out there who’d love a version of the V1 with a viewfinder and flash rather than a cooling fan, and ideally a more general-purpose lens too. If that’s not possible, an EVF accessory for the Multi-function shoe would go a long way, so how about it Canon?

Check prices on the Canon PowerShot V1 at B&H, Adorama, WEX UK or Calumet.de. Alternatively get yourself a copy of my In Camera book, an official Cameralabs T-shirt or mug, or treat me to a coffee! Thanks!