I bought the G1X to replace the G11 I often carried in the car to save my DSLRs from the summer heat and car break in robberies (city life-downtown at night). G1X image quality beats the smaller sensor Canon G cameras; operation is pretty similar. Only advantages to the G11 camera are built in lens cover and smaller size (I still use the G11 for a real pocket camera for these two reasons).

I will not buy a camera without a eye level viewfinder (do not have a cell phone), and the articulating screen covers the odd angles when one can not see thru the viewfinder. I think the G1X is/was one of the best casual carry cameras made. I do not consider zoom range a factor (or even worth the bulge it creates), but lens speed can help get the picture under the adverse conditions I usually use the cameras.

My G1X was a Canon refurb. Good price, new condition, no problems after years of random use and somewhat rough handling.
Boris