Our affection has everything to do with the large sensor, fast lens and the overall physicality of the camera. ... If you want a tool for capturing high-impact images, and not necessarily for adding impact to your images, then the G1 X ought to suit you fine.

The Canon G1 X is a compact camera with a big sensor and a fixed zoom lens. At $800, it's a tough sell, as you can get an equally-capable compact camera, D-SLR, or mirrorless interchangeable lens camera for less money.

The Canon G1 X impresses on all fronts, delivering excellent handling and great results across its comprehensive range of exposure modes. Pricey it may be, but this camera's real-world performance goes a long way towards justifying its price tag.

This advantages of this larger sensor are immediately clear to overall image quality, with the G1X offering class-leading performance in this respect. However, in other areas the G1X lets itself down somewhat with sluggish operation and niggly performance issues.

As it stands you could alternatively buy a CSC with the flexibility of interchangeable lenses, and in many cases quicker shooting, faster handling and a smaller body.

So if you want an all-in-one fixed-lens camera that offers a tried and trusted user interface, excellent image quality, full HD video and a versatile screen, the Canon Powershot G1 X is easy to recommend.