Canon announces two new premium point-and-shoots, the PowerShot G5 X and G9 X

You can stop your guessing now, enthusiasts. Canon has officially updated its PowerShot G-series camera lineup with two new PowerShot cameras, the G5 X and G9 X.

Taking inspiration both in specs and aesthetics from their G-series predecessors, these two new models split the bill of the G7 X and G3 X offering new and improved features in similar, but improved form factors. Both cameras feature a one-inch, 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor -- capable of 1080p video at 24p, 30p and 60p -- with an ISO range of 125–12,800, all powered by Canon's DIGIC 6 image processor. It's what's in front and around the sensor that sets these two cameras apart from one another though. 

Canon PowerShot G5 X

For enthusiasts who have been aching for an electronic viewfinder, Canon has answered your demands with the G5X. A 2.36 million dot OLED electronic viewfinder adorns the top of this camera, giving the G-series lineup a very welcomed addition. In addition to the EVF, Canon has included a 3-inch, 1.04 million dot ‘Vari-Angle’ LCD touchscreen for viewing and further composing images. 

For optics, the G5 X features a fast f/1.8–2.8 4.2x zoom lens, a full frame focal length equivalent of roughly 24–100mm. In addition to a nine-blade aperture diaphragm for smooth bokeh, Canon’s ‘Intelligent Image Stabilization (IS) system’ makes it easier than ever to shoot in challenging environments.

In addition to a built-in flash that's all but standard in the G-series lineup, the G5 X is entirely compatible with Canon’s lineup of Ex-series Speedlites and accessories.

Like many PowerShots before it, the G5X comes in a classic black body and offers customizable controls for ensuring every dial and button can be adjusted to fit your specific shooting style.

For a complete rundown of the PowerShot G5X, head on over to our preview.

Canon PowerShot G9 X

Also released is the Canon PowerShot G9X, a new entry-level point-and-shoot that strives to look as good on the outside as it does the inside. While it's lacking the electronic viewfinder of the G5 X, the G9X still offers up a 3-inch touch panel that features a new, customizable interface for quickly changing settings on-the-fly. 

Considering its smaller form factor, the G9 X still packs quite a punch with a fast f/2.0–4.9 3x zoom lens, a full frame focal length equivalent of 28–84mm. Canon’s ‘Intelligent Image Stabilization (IS) system’ further ensures steady photos in tough environments.

The G9X can shoot up to six frames per second with its 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor.

For a complete rundown of the PowerShot G9 X, head over to our preview.

You can pre-order the PowerShot G5X and PowerShot G9X (black, silver) from B&H for US$799.99 and US$529.99, respectively. They're set to ship in November 2015.