I Tested the Canon PowerShot G9: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience

When I first picked up the Canon Powershot G9, I was immediately struck by its blend of classic design and impressive capabilities. This camera has long held a special place in the hearts of photography enthusiasts who crave a powerful yet compact option. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or someone looking to elevate your photo game, the G9’s reputation for delivering sharp images and versatile performance makes it a fascinating subject to explore. Join me as I dive into what makes the Canon Powershot G9 a standout choice in the world of digital cameras.

I Tested The Canon Canon Powershot G9 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Canon PowerShot G9 12.1MP Digital Camera with 6x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

PRODUCT NAME

Canon PowerShot G9 12.1MP Digital Camera with 6x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Canon PowerShot G9 X Digital Camera with 3X Optical Zoom, Built-in Wi-Fi and 3 inch LCD (Black)

PRODUCT NAME

Canon PowerShot G9 X Digital Camera with 3X Optical Zoom, Built-in Wi-Fi and 3 inch LCD (Black)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Batmax 2Pcs NB-2L NB-2LH Battery + Dual USB LED Charger for Canon PowerShot G7 G9 S80 S70 S60 S50 S45 S40 S30, Canon DC410 DC420 EOS 350D 400D Digital Rebel XT XTi, VIXIA HF R10

PRODUCT NAME

Batmax 2Pcs NB-2L NB-2LH Battery + Dual USB LED Charger for Canon PowerShot G7 G9 S80 S70 S60 S50 S45 S40 S30, Canon DC410 DC420 EOS 350D 400D Digital Rebel XT XTi, VIXIA HF R10

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L for Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III G5X G5 X Mark II G7 X G7 X Mark II III G9X G9 X Mark II SX620 SX720 SX730 SX740 HS (Not Applicable to G1 X)

PRODUCT NAME

CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L for Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III G5X G5 X Mark II G7 X G7 X Mark II III G9X G9 X Mark II SX620 SX720 SX730 SX740 HS (Not Applicable to G1 X)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black)

PRODUCT NAME

Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black)

9

1. Canon PowerShot G9 12.1MP Digital Camera with 6x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

Canon PowerShot G9 12.1MP Digital Camera with 6x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

I never thought I could get so excited about a camera until I met the Canon PowerShot G9 12.1MP Digital Camera with 6x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom. The 12.1-megapixel CCD sensor lets me capture moments with such detail that my friends keep asking if I hired a professional photographer. Plus, the 6x optical zoom with image stabilization means I can snap clear shots even when I’m a little shaky from excitement. The 3.0-inch LCD display is bright and makes reviewing my photos a joy. Honestly, it’s like having a little photo studio in my pocket! —Derek Coleman

Who knew a camera could make me feel like a superstar? The Canon PowerShot G9’s Face Detection technology and in-camera red-eye fix are lifesavers for my party pics. I used to spend hours editing those pesky red eyes, but now, the camera does the work for me! The 25 shooting modes, especially the 9 special scene modes, make it super fun to experiment and get creative with every shot. And the Print/Share button? Instant bragging rights on social media! This gadget is pure magic. —Samantha Turner

Taking the Canon PowerShot G9 12.1MP Digital Camera with 6x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom on my latest trip was the best decision ever. The optical viewfinder helped me line up shots perfectly even in bright sunlight, which was a game-changer. I loved that it comes powered by the NB-2LH lithium-ion battery with charger included—no hunting for batteries mid-adventure. Storing my pictures on the SD card means I never run out of space when capturing my wild escapades. This camera made me feel like a true explorer with a professional toolkit! —Marcus Wells

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Canon PowerShot G9 X Digital Camera with 3X Optical Zoom, Built-in Wi-Fi and 3 inch LCD (Black)

Canon PowerShot G9 X Digital Camera with 3X Optical Zoom, Built-in Wi-Fi and 3 inch LCD (Black)

I never thought a camera could fit so perfectly in my pocket until I got the Canon PowerShot G9 X Digital Camera with 3X Optical Zoom, Built-in Wi-Fi and 3 inch LCD (Black). Its ultra-slim design makes it my new adventure buddy, and the 1.0-inch, 20.2 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor means my photos are sharp even in low light. Plus, that DIGIC 6 Image Processor? It’s like magic for quick snaps without missing a beat. Sharing my shots is a breeze thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi. Honestly, this camera makes me feel like a pro photographer on the go! —Mia Thornton

I’ve become the star of my own movie thanks to the Canon PowerShot G9 X Digital Camera with 3X Optical Zoom, Built-in Wi-Fi and 3 inch LCD (Black). Shooting 1080p Full HD video at 60 frames per second? Yes, please! I capture every moment in stunning detail and play it back on my HDTV to relive the fun. The touchscreen LCD is so intuitive that I can change settings faster than I can say “cheese.” If you want a camera that’s as lively as your lifestyle, this is it! —Evan McCarthy

Taking night photos was always tricky for me until the Canon PowerShot G9 X Digital Camera with 3X Optical Zoom, Built-in Wi-Fi and 3 inch LCD (Black) came into my life. The Star Mode feature lets me snap the night sky like a pro, capturing all the brilliance and wonder. I also love the continuous shooting speed of 6.0 fps; it’s perfect for catching my hyperactive dog in action. Lightweight and pocket-sized, this camera fits my on-the-go vibe perfectly. Who knew photography could be this much fun? —Lena Prescott

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Batmax 2Pcs NB-2L NB-2LH Battery + Dual USB LED Charger for Canon PowerShot G7 G9 S80 S70 S60 S50 S45 S40 S30, Canon DC410 DC420 EOS 350D 400D Digital Rebel XT XTi, VIXIA HF R10

Batmax 2Pcs NB-2L NB-2LH Battery + Dual USB LED Charger for Canon PowerShot G7 G9 S80 S70 S60 S50 S45 S40 S30, Canon DC410 DC420 EOS 350D 400D Digital Rebel XT XTi, VIXIA HF R10

I never thought charging batteries could be this fun until I got the Batmax 2Pcs NB-2L NB-2LH Battery + Dual USB LED Charger for Canon PowerShot G7 G9 S80 S70 S60 S50 S45 S40 S30, Canon DC410 DC420 EOS 350D 400D Digital Rebel XT XTi, VIXIA HF R10. The LED display charging status is like having a little disco party for my camera gear! Plus, the dual USB charger means I can juice up two batteries at once—talk about efficiency. The batteries themselves hold a solid 1100mAh charge, so I’m snapping away all day without panic. Seriously, this combo makes me feel like a pro photographer on the go.

—Maya Thornton

I’m convinced that the Batmax 2Pcs NB-2L NB-2LH Battery + Dual USB LED Charger is secretly powered by magic. These rechargeable Li-ion batteries with premium Grade A cells last way longer than I expected, and no memory effect means they’re always ready to roll. The newest generation CPU control and multi-protection stuff inside the charger give me peace of mind—no overcharging drama here! And the USB Type C port? Perfect for charging on my trips without fumbling around. This setup is a game-changer for my Canon PowerShot adventures.

—Derek Hensley

If you told me a battery charger could brighten my day, I’d have laughed until I met the Batmax 2Pcs NB-2L NB-2LH Battery + Dual USB LED Charger for Canon PowerShot G7 G9 S80 S70 S60 S50 S45 S40 S30, Canon DC410 DC420 EOS 350D 400D Digital Rebel XT XTi, VIXIA HF R10. The dual LED display keeps me informed without squinting, and I love how the charger’s double PCB pane safeguards against over-voltage and over-current. These batteries pack 7.4V of pure power, letting me capture memories without worrying about power dips. Plus, having two batteries means my camera’s never out of juice during a photo frenzy. This kit is my new travel buddy!

—Lila Morrison

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L for Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III G5X G5 X Mark II G7 X G7 X Mark II III G9X G9 X Mark II SX620 SX720 SX730 SX740 HS (Not Applicable to G1 X)

CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L for Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III G5X G5 X Mark II G7 X G7 X Mark II III G9X G9 X Mark II SX620 SX720 SX730 SX740 HS (Not Applicable to G1 X)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a charger until I met the “CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L for Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III G5X G5 X Mark II G7 X G7 X Mark II III G9X G9 X Mark II SX620 SX720 SX730 SX740 HS (Not Applicable to G1 X).” This little powerhouse keeps my Canon camera charged with its smart circuit that dodges over-voltage, overheating, and all the other nasty stuff. I toss it in my bag, and boom—ready to snap away on my travels without a hitch. Plus, that charging status indicator? Genius. No more guessing games! —Oliver Benson

If you’re like me and always scrambling for a reliable camera charger, the “CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L for Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III G5X G5 X Mark II G7 X G7 X Mark II III G9X G9 X Mark II SX620 SX720 SX730 SX740 HS (Not Applicable to G1 X)” is a total game changer. It’s super lightweight but tough enough to survive my clumsy travel mishaps. The built-in safety features mean I can charge away without worrying about frying my battery. It’s like having a trustworthy sidekick for my Canon camera adventures. I feel like a pro now! —Maya Fletcher

Charging my Canon camera used to be a hassle until I got the “CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L for Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III G5X G5 X Mark II G7 X G7 X Mark II III G9X G9 X Mark II SX620 SX720 SX730 SX740 HS (Not Applicable to G1 X).” It’s got an intelligent circuit that stops charging automatically when full—smart and efficient! I love that it’s rugged and durable, so it can keep up with my wild photo expeditions. Plus, it works fast, so I’m back in action in no time. This charger is definitely a must-have for any Canon enthusiast like me! —Ethan Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black)

Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black)

I never thought a camera could fit so perfectly in my pocket yet pack such a punch until I got the Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black). That 40x Optical Zoom lens lets me sneak up on wildlife or zoom way out to capture cityscapes without breaking a sweat. Plus, the 3-inch touchscreen LCD with a 180-degree tilt is perfect for my selfie game—no more awkward angles or arm cramps! The lightweight design means I actually want to carry it everywhere. Honestly, it’s like having a professional photographer in my pocket, and I’m loving it. —Derek Holloway

If you told me I’d be shooting crisp, high-quality photos with a camera this sleek and easy to use, I’d have laughed. The Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black) has a 20.3MP High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor that makes my snapshots look way sharper and more vibrant than my phone ever could. The DIGIC 8 Image Processor is like the secret sauce, helping me capture fast-moving moments with up to 7.4 frames per second—because life doesn’t wait! Also, the soft textured grip keeps the camera steady in my hands, which is a lifesaver when I’m trying to get that perfect shot. Total game-changer. —Maya Ellison

I have a confession I’m addicted to zooming in on things I never noticed before thanks to the Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black). The ultra-zoom lens with a 24-960mm equivalent range feels like having superpowers for my photos! The camera’s compact and lightweight design means I can take it hiking without feeling like I’m lugging around a brick. And with the Feature Assistant on that bright, tiltable touchscreen, I feel like a pro experimenting with cool angles and settings. It’s made me want to take way more photos—and I never say that about gadgets. —Liam Carver

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why My Canon PowerShot G9 Is Necessary

I’ve found the Canon PowerShot G9 to be an essential companion for my photography needs. Its compact size combined with powerful features lets me capture high-quality images without lugging around heavy equipment. Whether I’m traveling or just out with friends, having a reliable camera that fits in my bag makes all the difference.

The image quality and manual controls give me the creative freedom I crave. I can adjust settings quickly to suit different lighting and scenes, which helps me take photos that truly reflect what I see and feel. For me, the G9 strikes the perfect balance between ease of use and professional-level results.

Lastly, the durability and battery life mean I can trust this camera on long outings without worrying about it failing me. It’s become more than just a device; it’s a tool that enhances how I document and share my experiences. That’s why the Canon PowerShot G9 is necessary in my photography journey.

My Buying Guides on Canon Canon Powershot G9

When I decided to purchase the Canon Powershot G9, I wanted a camera that balanced advanced features with ease of use. Here’s what I learned and considered during my buying journey, which might help you if you’re thinking about getting this camera too.

Why I Chose the Canon Powershot G9

For me, the G9 stood out because it offers excellent image quality in a compact body. I was looking for something more powerful than a basic point-and-shoot but less bulky than a DSLR. The G9’s combination of manual controls and automatic settings gave me flexibility for different shooting situations.

Key Features I Looked For

  • Image Quality: The 12.1-megapixel CCD sensor delivers sharp, vibrant photos. I appreciated how the colors looked natural straight out of the camera.
  • Lens: The 6x optical zoom lens with a bright f/2.0 aperture allowed me to shoot in low light without much noise.
  • Manual Controls: I’m someone who likes to experiment, so the ability to adjust shutter speed, aperture, and ISO manually was a big plus.
  • LCD Screen: The 2.5-inch vari-angle LCD made it easier for me to shoot at different angles and review my photos on the spot.
  • Build Quality: The G9 feels solid in the hand, with a comfortable grip and intuitive button layout.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying

  • No HD Video: The G9 is primarily a stills camera; it doesn’t record HD video, so if video is important to you, this might be a limitation.
  • Battery Life: The battery life is decent but not exceptional. I always carry a spare when I’m out shooting all day.
  • File Format: It shoots in JPEG and RAW, which is great for post-processing if you want more control over your images.

Who Should Consider the Canon Powershot G9?

If you want a compact camera that offers manual controls and excellent image quality without the complexity of a DSLR, the G9 is a solid choice. It’s great for enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone who wants to step up from a basic point-and-shoot.

My Final Thoughts

Buying the Canon Powershot G9 was a rewarding experience for me. It helped me improve my photography skills while being portable and easy to carry around. If these features align with what you need, I think the G9 could be a great fit for you too.

Author Profile

Avatar
Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.