Contax G1 vs G2: Which One should you buy?
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After shooting weddings across three continents with the Contax 645, street photography with both the Contax G1 and Contax G2, and testing nearly every premium rangefinder available, I've developed strong opinions about these two cameras. This isn't your typical comparison—it's a deep dive into what actually matters when choosing between these legendary machines.
My first Contax G Series
I discovered my first Contax G1 in a cramped Tokyo camera shop in 2019, nestled between overpriced Leicas and dusty Nikons. The shop owner—a gentleman who'd been selling cameras longer than I'd been alive—noticed my interest and shared something fascinating: "The Contax G1 was ahead of its time, but everyone wants the Contax G2. Sometimes the first version gets it more right than we realize."
2 weeks and countless photo walks later, I stumbled upon a mint Contax G2 in Shinjuku. I couldn't resist the opportunity for a direct comparison. That's when my real education began.
Helpful Tip: When examining either camera, always check the film advance mechanism first. It's the most common point of failure and the most expensive to repair.
Contax G1 vs G2: Which One should you buy
Is Contax G2 Better Than G1?
This is the question I get often and I'm going to break it down for you.
Physical Differences Contax G1 Body vs Contax G2 Body
Having carried both cameras through crowded markets in Hong Kong and along the quiet canals of Amsterdam, I've learned which differences actually impact shooting:
Size and Weight of Contax G1 vs Contax G2 camera
Contax G1 Weight: 420g, significantly more compact
Contax G2 Weight : 560g, noticeably larger grip
Personal Experience: The G1's smaller size made it my go-to for street photography, while the G2's larger grip proved more stable for low-light shooting
Shuttler Speed on Contax G1 vs G2
Shutter Speed Range: G1 maxes at 1/2000s, G2 reaches 1/6000s in auto (1/4000s manual)
Viewfinder Contax G1 vs G2
Contax G1 Viewfinder :
Requires precise eye positioning
Smaller frame window
Basic information display
Contax G2 Viewfinder :
Larger viewing window
Enhanced eye relief
More sophisticated information overlay
Improved brightness characteristics
Real-world impact: I missed more spontaneous shots with the G1 initially, but adapted within weeks
Helpful Tip: For G1 users, keeping both eyes open while shooting dramatically improves the viewfinder experience—a technique I learned from an old Leica photographer in Kyoto.
Contax G1 vs G2 Autofocus
Internet forums paint the G1's autofocus as problematic. Here's what a decade of real-world use reveals:
The G2 implements a significant engineering advancement over the G1's original design:
G1: Single-tier passive autofocus, optimized for 45mm focal length
G2: Dual-tier focusing methodology, enabling superior performance with longer focal lengths
Contax G1 Autofocus Characteristics:
Excels with the 45mm lens
Struggles more in low light
More accurate than most realize
Requires understanding its preferences
Contax G2 Autofocus Advantages:
Faster initial acquisition
Better performance with longer lenses
More reliable in dim conditions
Additional focus modes
Personal Experience: During a street photography workshop in Istanbul, my G1 consistently nailed focus with the 45mm lens, while a student's G2 technically focused faster but occasionally missed critical moments due to hunting with the 90mm lens.
Contax Lenses and Compatibility on the Contax G1 vs G2
Both cameras share the same legendary lens lineup, but there are crucial differences:
Contax G1 Lens Compatibility:
Early models: Limited to 28mm, 45mm, and 90mm
Contax Green label models: Adds 35mm capability
Cannot use the 35-70mm zoom
Contax G2 Lenses:
Full access to all G-mount lenses
Better performance with longer focal lengths
More reliable with third-party adapters
Helpful Tip: The 45mm f/2 Planar performs identically on both bodies. If this is your primary lens, lens compatibility becomes less relevant.
Real-World Shooting Experience on Contax
After extensive documentation across multiple shooting scenarios:
G1 excels in street photography with the 45mm—its optimal configuration
G2 demonstrates superior low-light acquisition
Focus accuracy shows interesting variance: G1 often proves more precise when properly configured, while G2 offers faster initial acquisition
Street Photography
Contax G1 Advantages:
Smaller profile
Quieter operation
More discreet appearance
Contax G2 Advantages:
Faster focusing
Better viewfinder
More ergonomic grip
Portrait Sessions
Contax G1 Strengths:
Lighter weight for longer shoots
Excellent with 45mm lens
More intimate shooting experience
Contax G2 Strengths:
Better with 90mm lens
More professional appearance
Enhanced control layout
Contax G1 price vs Contax G2 Price
Current market values (as of 2024):
Contax G1 Body: $500-700
Contax G2 Body: $1,800-2,500
Contax 45mm f/2 Planar: $600-800
Personal Strategy: I own both cameras but find myself reaching for the G1 more often, especially for travel. The cost difference alone makes it possible to own a complete G1 system for the price of a G2 body.
Contax g review: Pros and Cons Contax G2 vs G1
Contax G1 Advantages:
More compact form factor
Superior value proposition
Simpler mechanical design
Lighter weight for extended sessions
Contax G1 Limitations:
Limited lens compatibility (early models)
Slower focus acquisition
More demanding viewfinder technique
Contax G2 Advantages:
Enhanced operational speed
Superior viewfinder experience
Complete lens system compatibility
More professional control layout
Contax G2 Limitations:
Significantly higher cost
Larger physical presence
More complex repair requirements
Which Contax G Camera Should You Choose?
is contax g1 worth it? Choose the Contax G1 if you:
Prioritize value
Mainly shoot with the 45mm lens
Need a more compact system
Enjoy a more mechanical shooting experience
is the contax g2 worth it? Choose the Contax G2 if you:
Require the fastest possible AF
Use multiple G-mount lenses
Need the best possible viewfinder
Money is no object
The Verdict
After years of shooting both cameras professionally, I've reached a conclusion that might surprise some: The G1 remains my primary camera, while the G2 serves as a capable backup. The G1's combination of size, simplicity, and value creates a more engaging shooting experience, even if the G2 is technically more advanced.
Want to dive deeper into specific aspects of either camera? Share your questions in the comments.
Helpful Tip: Whichever model you choose, invest in proper maintenance. These cameras respond remarkably well to regular care but can be expensive to repair if neglected.
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