CameraReview

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II vs Sony a5100 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
Canon
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
Compact · 20 MP · 1" · Full HD video
59
SCORE
No live offers
✓ WINNER
Sony a5100
Sony
Sony a5100
Mirrorless · 24.3 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
60
SCORE
$389
best of 3 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand CanonSony
Model PowerShot G7 X Mark IIa5100
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162014
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
18/02/201618/08/2014
Camera type CompactMirrorless
Camera size 106 x 61 x 42 mm110 x 63 x 36 mm
Camera weight 319 g283 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20 MP05024.3 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5472 x 36486000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
13.2 x 8.815.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
1"APS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
8 fps0456 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
FixedSony E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 7Bionz X
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1253020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
128003003280000256003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1253020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
256003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
200080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
3103001790300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
NoneNone
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10801920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps60 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4, MOVMP4, AVI
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
104000011500015000009216001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NB-13LNP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
265 shots1505000400 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a5100 narrowly edges out the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II with a score of 60/100 compared to 59/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as their release years (2014 and 2016) and compact design. The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, a compact camera, is slightly larger and heavier at 106 x 61 x 42mm and 319g. On the other hand, the Sony a5100, a mirrorless camera, is lighter at 283g and measures 110 x 63 x 36mm.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II has a higher launch price of $699, while the Sony a5100 is more affordable at $550. Despite the higher price, the Canon model falls short by one point. This suggests that the Sony a5100 offers better value for the money.

Taking all factors into consideration, the Sony a5100 is the winner in this comparison due to its lighter weight, smaller size, and better value. However, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II remains a strong contender and may still appeal to some users depending on their preferences.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II vs Sony a5100 Overview and Optics

The Sony a5100 triumphs over the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II in optics with a score of 66/100, compared to the Canon’s 58/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, no image stabilization, and similar processors – the Canon featuring a Digic 7 processor and the Sony a Bionz X processor.

The Sony a5100 stands out due to its superior 24.3-megapixel count, compared to the Canon’s 20 megapixels. Additionally, the Sony a5100 has a larger APS-C sensor size, while the Canon only has a 1″ sensor size. The Sony a5100 also boasts a slightly higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 80, compared to the Canon’s 79. Furthermore, the Sony a5100 has an interchangeable Sony E lens mount, offering more flexibility and options for photographers.

On the other hand, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II has a faster shooting speed of 8, while the Sony a5100 only has a shooting speed of 6. This advantage allows the Canon to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively.

In terms of optics, the Sony a5100 outperforms the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II with its higher megapixel count, larger sensor size, and interchangeable lens mount. The Canon, however, has the edge in shooting speed. These factors should be considered when determining which camera best suits one’s needs.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II vs Sony a5100 Video Performance

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II outperforms the Sony a5100 in video capabilities with a score of 70/100, while the Sony a5100 scores 56/100. Both cameras share common video specifications, including Full HD video resolution, maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, and a maximum video frame rate of 60fps.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II excels in video performance due to its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a5100 lacks. This feature allows the Canon model to capture stunning time-lapse videos effortlessly, making it a more versatile option for videographers who enjoy creating dynamic, time-compressed sequences.

Although the Sony a5100 falls short in comparison to the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, it still offers reliable video performance with its Full HD resolution and 60fps frame rate. These specifications ensure smooth, high-quality video capture, making it a suitable choice for casual videographers or those who do not require time-lapse functionality.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II’s higher score and built-in time-lapse feature make it the superior choice for those seeking advanced video capabilities. However, the Sony a5100 remains a viable option for those who prioritize other factors and do not require time-lapse functionality in their camera. Both cameras provide Full HD resolution and a 60fps frame rate, ensuring quality video performance for their users.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II vs Sony a5100 Features and Benefits

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is the winner in terms of features, scoring 70 out of 100, while the Sony a5100 scores 54 out of 100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, no GPS, and WIFI connectivity.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II surpasses the Sony a5100 in screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity. With a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, the Canon model provides a clearer and sharper display compared to the Sony a5100’s 921,600 dots. Additionally, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II includes Bluetooth, allowing for seamless and convenient pairing with other devices, while the Sony a5100 lacks this feature.

On the other hand, the Sony a5100 does not have any distinct advantages over the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II in terms of features. Both cameras offer similar specifications, with the Canon model excelling in certain areas, as mentioned earlier.

Given the higher feature score and the advantages in screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II stands out as the superior camera in this comparison. The Sony a5100, while sharing many common specifications, does not provide any unique benefits that would make it a better option. Therefore, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is the recommended choice for those looking for a camera with better features.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II vs Sony a5100 Storage and Battery

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II wins in the storage and battery category, scoring 29/100, while the Sony a5100 scores 24/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Sony a5100 also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards, providing more storage options.

The Canon G7 X Mark II has a battery life of 265 shots, and it uses an NB-13L battery. This camera also offers USB charging, which is convenient for on-the-go charging. On the other hand, the Sony a5100 has a longer battery life of 400 shots, using an NP-FW50 battery. Unfortunately, it does not support USB charging.

Despite having a shorter battery life, the Canon G7 X Mark II’s USB charging feature gives it an edge over the Sony a5100. However, the Sony a5100’s longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility make it a strong contender. Both cameras have their advantages, but the Canon G7 X Mark II takes the lead in this comparison due to its charging convenience.

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II vs Sony a5100 – Our Verdict

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II vs Sony a5100 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II or the Sony a5100: