The New Panasonic Lumix L10 and Canon’s Glaring Compact Vacuum

In case anyone doubts how relevant this category is even after decades of advancements in the smartphone realm, Panasonic's recent announcement of the Lumix L10 can serve as an interesting example. As a true successor of sorts to the LX100 lineage, the L10 features a high-end 26.5MP BSI CMOS sensor that's capable of recording up to 4K30p, which just happens to be the same exact sensor found in Panasonic's top-tier video cameras. That's coupled with the Leica 24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 lens. All of that is priced at $1,500. Needless to say, we have a very high-quality, professional tool that offers modern phase-detection autofocus, subject-tracking powered by AI, and a metal body right there for only a few hundred dollars more than a decent smartphone.

Now that we know there is a lot of potential left in premium fixed-lens cameras despite all the advancements in smartphones, we can take a glance at Canon's current product lineup and note the lack of offerings for a customer who is looking to buy an equivalent device. PowerShot G7 X Mark III looks quite dated at this point, and the PowerShot G1 X Mark III has been out of production for years without a proper follow-up.  The PowerShot V1 was released, but it has primarily video-oriented specifications and design.

While companies such as Fujifilm dominate the news and backlog thanks to the X100VI or Ricoh targets the enthusiasts with GR III, Canon decided to focus on developing the RF and RF-S lens systems instead, and play lip service to the Powershot cameras.  Again, no indication here that the company cares about those who are willing to spend extra on a compact camera body and lens combo for those who prefer smaller cameras without the bulk of mirrorless cameras and interchangeable lenses.

All things considered, Canon has everything it needs to revive the high-end PowerShot line, and Panasonic is doing just fine with its Lumix L10. For starters, Canon has the arguably class-leading Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system in terms of performance. In addition, Canon has a history of producing premium lenses for various formats and is renowned for delivering stellar results in terms of color accuracy. So, if Canon decides to go back to manufacturing a premium integrated lens camera, it might be a good idea for it to utilize the same approach as in the case of the Panasonic L10.

The resulting PowerShot could potentially become a worthy competitor to many mirrorless bodies out there because, thanks to its small footprint and the ability to capture stunning images, it will be able to appeal to those enthusiasts who prefer carrying their gear in a pocket rather than in a backpack.  Maybe that's why Canon doesn't want to create it.

If Canon does create such a camera, it will be an exciting product to see from Canon and one in which I'd personally love to see soon.

Richard @ CanonNewsRichard @ CanonNews

Richard has been using Canon cameras since the 1990s, with his first being the now legendary EOS-3. Since then, Richard has continued to use Canon cameras and now focuses mostly on infrared photography. Richard is the founder and editor of CanonNews since 2017, and has worked as a writer on CanonRumors and other websites in the past.

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