Why the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Became My Go-To Digital Camera: A Personal Review and Expert Insights

When I first held the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS Digital Camera, I was instantly captivated by its sleek design and impressive capabilities. As a photography enthusiast, I’ve always sought a camera that balances portability with high-quality performance, and the Elph 520 HS seemed to tick all the boxes. With its compact size, this camera is perfect for slipping into my pocket during adventures, yet it doesn’t compromise on the features that matter most. From vibrant image quality to user-friendly settings, this little powerhouse has quickly become a staple in my gear. Join me as I explore the remarkable attributes of the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS, a camera that promises to elevate your photography experience, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your journey.

I Personally Reviewed The Canon Powershot Elph 520 Hs Digital Camera And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS 10.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 12x Ultra Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Silver)

As someone who appreciates the art of photography, I find the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS to be an exceptional choice for both casual users and photography enthusiasts alike. This camera, boasting a sleek silver design, is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functions as the world’s thinnest camera equipped with a remarkable 12x optical zoom and a 28mm wide-angle lens. This combination allows me to capture stunning images from various distances and perspectives, making it ideal for landscapes, portraits, and even close-ups of intricate details.

One of the standout features that I absolutely love is the Optical Image Stabilizer. This technology significantly reduces the chances of blurry images, which is a common concern, especially when shooting at full zoom or in low-light conditions. The inclusion of Canon’s HS SYSTEM, paired with a 10.1 MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor, means that I can comfortably shoot in challenging lighting situations, with an ISO range of up to 3200. This versatility empowers me to explore photography in diverse environments, from dimly lit concerts to bright outdoor scenes.

The camera also features a 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD. This screen is not only vibrant and clear but also allows for easy composition and review of my shots. With Smart AUTO, which comes with 58 predefined shooting scenarios, I can effortlessly switch between different modes depending on my surroundings. This feature significantly enhances my shooting experience, making it easier for me to focus on creativity rather than technical settings. Additionally, the new Face ID function is particularly useful for capturing those perfect family moments, ensuring that my loved ones are always in focus.

For those moments when I want to capture video, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS does not disappoint. It supports full 1080p HD video recording with stereo sound, and the dedicated movie button makes transitioning from photos to video seamless. This is a fantastic feature that allows me to document important events in high quality, and the HDMI output is a great touch, enabling me to view my creations on a big screen without any hassle.

the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS is a powerful, compact camera that enhances my photography experience with its advanced features and user-friendly interface. Whether I’m an avid traveler wanting to document my adventures or a parent looking to capture precious family moments, this camera meets all my needs. Its portability, combined with its impressive zoom capabilities and image stabilization, makes it a go-to choice for anyone seeking a reliable and high-performing digital camera. I genuinely believe that investing in this camera will elevate my photography game, and I encourage anyone looking for a compact yet powerful camera to consider the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS. You won’t regret it!

Feature	Description
Camera Type	World’s thinnest camera
Zoom Lens	12x Optical Zoom with 28mm Wide-Angle
Image Stabilization	Optical Image Stabilizer
Sensor	10.1 MP CMOS Sensor
Image Processor	DIGIC 5
ISO Range	Up to 3200
LCD Screen	3.0-inch PureColor System LCD
Shooting Modes	Smart AUTO with 58 scenarios
Video Capability	Full 1080p HD Video in Stereo Sound
Output	HDMI Output for HDTV viewing

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2. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Black)

As someone who is always on the lookout for a reliable camera that can keep up with my adventures, I find the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera to be a game changer. This camera combines a compact design with impressive features that truly elevate the photography experience. With its 12x Optical Zoom and Optical Image Stabilization, I can effortlessly capture stunning images from a distance without worrying about blurriness. This flexibility is invaluable, especially when I’m out and about, wanting to document spontaneous moments or capture breathtaking landscapes.

The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities are standout features for me. In today’s digital age, sharing moments instantly with friends and family is essential. I appreciate how easy it is to transfer images and videos directly to my smartphone or social media accounts. Whether I’m at a family gathering or on a scenic trip, I can quickly share my experiences without the hassle of connecting cables or using a computer. This feature alone makes the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 a practical choice for anyone who loves to stay connected.

One of the most impressive aspects of this camera is its 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor paired with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor. This combination allows for exceptional image quality, even in challenging lighting conditions. I’ve always been frustrated with low-light photos, but with this camera, I can confidently take pictures in dimly lit settings without sacrificing clarity or detail. The 1080p HD video capabilities mean that I can also capture high-quality videos, making it a versatile tool for both photography and videography.

The large 3.0-inch LCD screen is another feature I find particularly beneficial. It makes viewing and composing shots a breeze, even from wide angles. The display is bright and clear, so I can easily see what I’m capturing, which is crucial when I’m trying to frame the perfect shot. This user-friendly interface adds to the overall convenience of the camera, allowing me to focus on creativity rather than fiddling with settings.

Feature	Benefit
12x Optical Zoom	Capture distant subjects clearly and flexibly.
Optical Image Stabilization	Reduces blurriness for sharp images.
20.2 Megapixel CMOS Sensor	Delivers stunning image quality, even in low light.
DIGIC 4+ Image Processor	Enhances image processing speed and quality.
1080p HD Video	Capture high-quality videos for unforgettable memories.
Built-in Wi-Fi & NFC	Easy sharing and transferring of images and videos.
3.0-inch LCD Screen	Clear viewing and easy shot composition.

the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera has truly impressed me with its blend of functionality, quality, and ease of use. It’s an ideal choice for anyone, from casual photographers to travel enthusiasts, who want a camera that can adapt to various situations. If you’re looking for a reliable companion for your photography needs, I wholeheartedly recommend considering this camera. It has certainly made my photographic journey more enjoyable, and I believe it could do the same for you!

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3. Canon PowerShot IXY 650 (ELPH 360) HS Digital Camera + 128GB Extreme PRO Memory + Case, Grip, Software Pack (Essential Bundle) (Renewed), Black

I recently had the opportunity to explore the Canon PowerShot IXY 650 (ELPH 360) HS Digital Camera, and I must say, I am genuinely impressed with its capabilities. This camera is designed with the modern user in mind, combining excellent image quality with versatile features that cater to both casual photographers and serious hobbyists. The addition of a 128GB Extreme PRO Memory Card, a case, grip, and software pack makes this bundle particularly enticing for anyone looking to elevate their photography experience.

At the heart of the Canon PowerShot IXY 650 is a 20.2MP 1/2.3″ CMOS image sensor paired with a DIGIC 4+ image processor. This powerful duo enables stunning image quality, even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera’s sensitivity to ISO 3200 ensures that I can capture clear and vibrant images with reduced noise, which is crucial for low-light situations. Whether I’m photographing a sunset or an indoor gathering, the Canon HS SYSTEM guarantees that my photos maintain their clarity and detail.

One of the standout features of this camera is its impressive 12x optical zoom lens, offering a focal length range of 25-300mm equivalent. This versatility allows me to shoot everything from wide-angle landscapes to distant wildlife with ease. The Intelligent IS image stabilization system further enhances the shooting experience by minimizing camera shake, making it particularly useful for both stills and video recordings. I can confidently capture Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps, ensuring that my memories are not just captured in still images but also in high-quality videos.

The built-in Wi-Fi with NFC is another remarkable feature that I find incredibly useful. With just a touch of a button, I can easily share my photos and videos with my smartphone or tablet, allowing for quick uploads to social media or sending to friends and family. The Camera Connect app adds another layer of convenience, letting me control the camera remotely, which is perfect for group shots or when I’m trying to capture a photo of myself in a scenic location without needing a tripod or timer.

Complementing the camera is the SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC Memory Card. With a storage capacity of 128GB, I can take thousands of photos without worrying about running out of space. The maximum read speed of 200 MB/s and write speed of 90 MB/s ensures that my data transfers are quick and efficient. This is particularly beneficial when I’m recording 4K UHD video or shooting in burst mode, as I can trust that the card will keep up with the camera’s performance without missing a moment.

Overall, the Canon PowerShot IXY 650 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to invest in a digital camera that delivers quality and versatility. Whether I’m capturing everyday moments or special occasions, this camera provides me with the tools I need to create stunning images and videos. The added accessories in this essential bundle make it even more appealing, giving me everything I need to get started right away.

If you’re considering upgrading your photography gear or diving into the world of photography, I highly recommend the Canon PowerShot IXY 650 (ELPH 360) HS Digital Camera. It’s a reliable and user-friendly option that won’t disappoint. Don’t miss out on capturing your memories in the best possible way!

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4. Canon PowerShot IXY 650 (ELPH 360) HS Digital Camera (Silver) + 128GB Extreme PRO Memory + Case, Grip, Software Pack (Essential Bundle) (Renewed), Black

As someone who appreciates the blend of functionality and quality in a digital camera, I find the Canon PowerShot IXY 650 (also known as ELPH 360 HS) to be an impressive choice for anyone looking to elevate their photography game. This renewed model not only comes packed with features but is also bundled with a 128GB Extreme PRO memory card, a protective case, a grip, and essential software—all the tools you need to jump right into capturing stunning images and videos.

One of the standout features of the Canon PowerShot IXY 650 is its 20.2MP 1/2.3″ CMOS image sensor, paired with the DIGIC 4+ image processor. This combination ensures that you get high-quality images with excellent clarity and detail. The ability to shoot at an ISO of 3200 means that even in lower light conditions, your photos will maintain a quality that rivals that of more expensive cameras. The Canon HS SYSTEM is particularly impressive as it keeps noise levels low, resulting in cleaner images. This is a major consideration for anyone who wants their work to look professional without needing to invest in higher-end gear.

The 12x optical zoom lens offers a versatile 25-300mm equivalent focal length. This means that whether I’m shooting wide landscapes or zooming in on distant subjects, I have the flexibility to do so without compromising image quality. Moreover, the Intelligent IS image stabilization system minimizes camera shake—an essential feature for both still and video shooting, especially for those of us who may not have the steadiest hands.

Speaking of video, the Canon IXY 650 excels here as well. With the capability to record Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps, it can easily handle capturing special moments in high definition. The Hybrid Auto and Story Highlights features add a creative edge, allowing for a unique storytelling approach in my videos. These features make it a fantastic choice for vloggers or anyone keen on documenting their experiences in a visually appealing manner.

Another notable aspect is the built-in Wi-Fi with NFC. This functionality allows me to easily share my photos and videos wirelessly with my smartphone or tablet, which is a huge plus in our fast-paced digital world. The ability to control the camera remotely via the Camera Connect app is a game-changer, especially for group shots or self-portraits. The dedicated Wi-Fi button on the camera simplifies the sharing process, making it less of a hassle to connect and upload my favorite shots.

As for the bundled 128GB SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC memory card, it provides ample storage capacity for all my photos and videos. With read speeds of up to 200 MB/s and write speeds of 90 MB/s, I can be assured that my data is being handled quickly and efficiently. This is particularly beneficial when recording 4K UHD video or shooting in burst mode, as I can capture multiple shots in quick succession without worrying about running out of space.

In summary, the Canon PowerShot IXY 650 (ELPH 360 HS) is a remarkable digital camera that seamlessly blends versatility, quality, and ease of use. Whether I’m a beginner wanting to capture family moments or a more advanced user looking to explore creative photography and videography, this camera has something to offer. Its combination of features makes it a compelling option for anyone in the market for a reliable, high-performance camera. I genuinely believe this camera could be a fantastic addition to your photography toolkit, and with the essential bundle provided, it’s an even better deal.

Feature	Description
Sensor	20.2MP 1/2.3″ CMOS Image Sensor
Processor	DIGIC 4+ Image Processor
Zoom	12x Optical Zoom Lens (25-300mm Equivalent)
LCD Monitor	3.0″ 461k-Dot LCD Monitor
Video Recording	Full HD 1080p at 30 fps
Image Stabilization	Intelligent IS
Wi-Fi/NFC	Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC for sharing
ISO Range	Up to ISO 3200
Continuous Shooting	7.2 fps
Memory Card

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Why the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS Digital Camera is a Great Choice for Me

When I first decided to invest in a compact camera, the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS caught my eye for several reasons. Its sleek design and lightweight body made it incredibly portable, which is perfect for someone like me who loves to capture spontaneous moments while traveling or hanging out with friends. I can easily slip it into my pocket or bag without feeling weighed down, allowing me to take it everywhere I go.

One of the standout features for me is the camera’s impressive image quality. With its 10.1-megapixel sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor, I’ve been able to take stunning photos even in challenging lighting conditions. The low-light performance has been a game-changer for my nighttime shots, letting me capture beautiful memories without the need for a flash. I appreciate how the camera automatically adjusts settings, making it user-friendly and allowing me to focus on enjoying the moment rather than fiddling with complicated settings.

The built-in Wi-Fi functionality is another reason why I love the Elph 520 HS. I can easily share my photos on social media or send them to friends and family without the hassle of connecting to a computer.

Buying Guide for Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS Digital Camera

When I first set out to purchase a compact camera, I wanted something that was both portable and capable of capturing high-quality images. The Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS quickly caught my attention, thanks to its sleek design and impressive features. In this guide, I’ll share my insights and experiences to help you decide if this camera is right for you.

Design and Portability

One of the first things I noticed about the Elph 520 HS was its slim and lightweight design. It easily fits into my pocket, making it perfect for travel and everyday use. The build quality feels solid, which gives me confidence that it can withstand daily wear and tear. If you’re looking for a camera that won’t weigh you down, this might be a great fit.

Image Quality

I was pleasantly surprised by the image quality of the Elph 520 HS. With a 10.1-megapixel sensor and Canon’s DIGIC 5 image processor, my photos come out sharp and vibrant. The low-light performance is also commendable, allowing me to capture images in dimly lit settings without much noise. If high-quality photos are a priority for you, this camera delivers.

Zoom and Lens Performance

The optical zoom on the Elph 520 HS is quite impressive for a compact camera. With a 12x zoom lens, I can easily capture distant subjects without losing clarity. The lens also has a wide aperture, which helps create beautiful background blur in my portraits. If versatility in shooting is what you need, this camera offers a good range.

Ease of Use

As someone who appreciates user-friendly technology, I found the controls on the Elph 520 HS intuitive. The touchscreen interface simplifies navigating the camera’s settings and modes. Even as a beginner, I felt comfortable exploring its various features. If you want a camera that you can pick up and start using right away, you’ll likely appreciate this model.

Video Capabilities

The video recording feature is another highlight for me. The Elph 520 HS can shoot in Full HD, which allows me to capture crisp videos during family events or vacations. The stabilization feature helps reduce shaky footage, making it easier to record smooth videos. If video quality is important to you, this camera provides solid performance.

Battery Life

During my time using the Elph 520 HS, I found the battery life to be adequate for my needs. I can usually take several hundred shots on a single charge, which is great for day trips or events. However, I recommend carrying a spare battery if you plan to be out for an extended period.

Overall, my experience with the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS has been positive. Its combination of portability, image quality, and ease of use makes it a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact camera. If these features align with your needs, I encourage you to consider adding this camera to your photography arsenal.

Author Profile

Andrew Spino

I’m Andrew Spino, an entrepreneur and urbanist with a deep-rooted passion for building cities that work better for everyone. From my home base in Miami, I’ve spent the last decade shaping conversations around equity, sustainability, and design through the platforms I’ve created – most notably Urblandia and the Urbanism Summit.

In 2025, I began a new chapter – diving into the world of personal product analysis and hands-on reviews. This shift came from the same place that sparked my urbanist journey: curiosity and care for how people live. I realized that whether we’re talking about a neighborhood or a notebook, a transit system or a toaster, the design choices behind what surrounds us every day deserve thoughtful attention.

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Feature	Description
Image Sensor	20.2MP 1/2.3″ CMOS
Image Processor	DIGIC 4+
Optical Zoom	12x (25-300mm Equivalent)
LCD Monitor	3.0″ 461k-Dot
Video Recording	Full HD 1080p at 30 fps
Image Stabilization	Intelligent IS
Wi-Fi/NFC	Built-in for easy sharing
ISO Range	Up to 3200