Canon Powershot G16 Review

Sid Suvarna Avatar

Written by:

Updated 4:48 pm

Expert Rating

80

The Canon G16 camera features a fixed lens system with 5x optical zoom and a Digic 8 image processor. If you’re on the lookout for a compact and lightweight camera, the G16 is the best point-and-shoot under $500. Other cameras from Canon, including the PowerShot ELPH 190 IS, PowerShot N, Canon EOS 90D, and the PowerShot SX730, are well built, durable, and offer good image quality. Check out this list with the best digital camera that will work for you.

Why We Like It – Canon Powershot G16

The Powershot G16 is a compact camera that features a lightweight design with a 12.1-megapixel 1/1.7” sensor that performs well even in low light. The image quality is excellent and the camera also records full HD videos at 60fps. It also offers 5x optical zoom and easy exposure compensation.

Pros
  • 12.1-megapixel 1/1.7” CMOS sensor
  • 5x Optical zoom lens
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
Cons
  • No built-in battery

Performance

The G16 features a 12.1-megapixel 1/1.7” CMOS sensor that offers a bunch of shooting modes as well as manual focus, which is unavailable in the Lyfeshot Blynk timelapse camera. The lens has a focal length of 28mm to 140mm at the maximum 5x position. The sensor is paired with the Canon DIGIC 6 image processor that delivers high ISO up to 12800. This results in bright photos with less noise even in low light conditions. The camera also features high-speed autofocus and intelligent image stabilization. However, the Nikon Coolpix B700 is a better choice if you need more zoom.

Related: Read our Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II review

Design

The Canon Powershot G16 comes with a compact body that should make it a great travel camera. The G16 also has a 3-inch LCD screen at the back that is bright enough for outdoor use. The camera has an optical viewfinder that works great in bright light. If the ISO range isn’t enough for your use case, a manual pop-up flash is also included in the camera body. You also get an exposure compensation dial, a mode dial, and a well-placed shutter button. For a better ergonomic design, you should probably go for the Nikon P7700.

Value

The Powershot G16 is a well-equipped compact camera that is great value for money, especially at the current price. It is well below USD 500 and offers a useful focal length on the fixed length. The camera can also record full HD resolution videos at 60 frames per second, and it features an HDMI output as well. You also get a built-in Wi-Fi feature on this camera, which lets you easily share images via the Canon Image Gateway tool. If you prefer a zoom lens, then check out the Panasonic Lumix FZ70.

Related: See the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS review

Canon Powershot G16 Wrap Up

The Canon G16 is an excellent choice of camera for a beginner who won’t be interested in multiple lenses. The 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor lets in a lot of light and can take great images as well as video. The fixed lens offers 5x optical zoom and the camera lets you easily share your images with built-in Wi-Fi. The only drawback with this camera is that it requires batteries, which can be a hassle. Otherwise, this is a great deal.

Sid Suvarna Avatar