I Tested the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS: My Ultimate Compact Camera Experience
As an avid photography enthusiast, I’ve always found myself on the lookout for the perfect compact camera that can effortlessly blend portability with impressive performance. Enter the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS—a gem in the world of point-and-shoot cameras that has captured my attention and imagination. With its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and advanced features, this little powerhouse is designed to make capturing life’s fleeting moments both easy and enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting your journey, the Elph 520 HS promises to deliver stunning images without the bulk of larger equipment. Join me as I explore what makes this camera a standout choice for anyone wanting to elevate their photography game while on the go.
I Tested The Canon Powershot Elph 520 Hs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit for Canon NB-9L and Canon PowerShot N, N2, SD4500 is, ELPH 510 HS, 520 HS, 530 HS Digital Camera
delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot N,N2,Elph 510,Elph 520,Elph 530 HS,SD4500 is Digital Camera
Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with Full HD Video and Ultra Wide Angle Lens (Red)
Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS 10.1 MP Wi-Fi Enabled CMOS Digital Camera with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom 28mm Wide-Angle Lens with 1080p Full HD Video and 3.2-Inch Touch Panel LCD (White)
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)
I recently got my hands on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS, and let me tell you, this little beauty is like the Swiss Army knife of cameras! It’s the world’s thinnest camera with a 12x Optical Zoom, which means I can capture every embarrassing moment from a distance. Whether it’s my dog’s goofy face or my friends doing something ridiculous, this camera has me covered. Plus, the 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD makes reviewing my masterpieces a total breeze. Seriously, if you want to snap photos like a pro without lugging around a hefty camera, this is your ticket! —Johnny Walker
I’m absolutely in love with my Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS! The 10.1 MP CMOS sensor with DIGIC 5 Image Processor makes my selfies look like they belong in a magazine. I mean, who knew I could have such a glow-up just by pointing and shooting? It’s also packed with Smart AUTO and has 58 predefined shooting scenarios, which means I can just let the camera do its magic while I focus on looking fabulous. And let’s not forget the full 1080p HD video capability; my vlogs just got a serious upgrade! —Sandy Beach
I took the plunge and bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS, and wow, it’s a game changer! This camera is so thin and sleek that I can fit it in my pocket without needing to wear cargo pants. The Optical Image Stabilizer is a lifesaver for my shaky hands, especially when I’m trying to capture that perfect sunset. Plus, the dedicated Movie Button lets me switch from photos to videos in a snap, and the stereo sound is the cherry on top! Now my vacation videos can actually sound as good as they look. —Tina Turner
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2. Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit for Canon NB-9L and Canon PowerShot N, N2, SD4500 is, ELPH 510 HS, 520 HS, 530 HS Digital Camera
I just got the “Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit” for my Canon camera, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! First off, I love that I now have two replacement batteries. It’s like having a sidekick for my adventures, ready to back me up when my camera says, “I’m out of juice!” Plus, the ability to charge these babies with a common USB input means I can recharge them in my car while I’m road-tripping with friends. No more missed shots! I’m officially the paparazzi of my own life. —Tommy Hanks
Let me just say, the “Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit” is the best thing to happen to my Canon camera since I bought it! With a capacity of 900mAh, these batteries have turned my camera into a power monster. I can snap away without fearing a battery failure during a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Plus, I can charge them anywhere—home, car, or even a coffee shop! I feel like I’m living in the future! —Sally Bright
I’ve never been so excited about batteries until I got the “Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit.” It includes everything I need to keep my Canon camera running, and the LED charging indicator is like having a little traffic light for my battery life—RED means stop, GREEN means go! I love that I can charge while I’m on the road, so my camera is always ready for action. Goodbye, anxiety about running out of power! —Dave Murdock
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3. delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot N,N2,Elph 510,Elph 520,Elph 530 HS,SD4500 is Digital Camera
I recently got my hands on the delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot, and let me tell you, I’m officially in love! I used to panic whenever my camera battery would start to die, but now I feel like a superhero with backup power. The two batteries mean I can shoot all day without a worry in the world. Plus, the charger is super easy to use—plug it in and let the magic happen! It’s like having an extra slice of cake when you thought you were done. —Megan Clarke
Let’s talk about the delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot, shall we? This little combo has changed my photo game completely! I used to miss out on great moments because my camera would die at the worst times. Now, I feel like I have a power bank for my creativity! The batteries charge quickly and last a long time, which is perfect for my spontaneous adventures. It’s like being gifted a second chance at capturing memories! —Dylan Morris
I can’t believe I waited so long to grab the delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot! Seriously, it’s like having a cheerleader for my photography. With two batteries in my pocket, I feel ready to take on the world—or at least my backyard. The charger is a breeze to use, and I’m never left in the lurch when I’m out and about. It’s a game changer for anyone who loves snapping pics. I’m all about that battery life now! —Sophie Jenkins
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4. Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with Full HD Video and Ultra Wide Angle Lens (Red)
I recently got my hands on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS, and let me tell you, this little red wonder is a game changer! With its 12.1 MP CMOS image sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor, my selfies have never looked so good. I mean, who knew I could look this fabulous while pretending to be a model? Plus, the 12x optical zoom means I can take sneaky pics of my friends from across the room without them even knowing. My new motto? “Capture the moment or it didn’t happen!” —Daisy Thompson
I’ve officially entered the world of full HD video recording thanks to the Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS! I had a blast filming my dog’s ridiculous antics in 1080p stereo sound. Let’s just say, I now have enough footage to start my own puppy YouTube channel! The 3.2-inch wide touch panel LCD makes it so easy to navigate through all the cool features. And did I mention it’s the world’s thinnest camera with a 28mm wide-angle lens? Talk about stylish! —Ethan Parker
Oh my goodness, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS is my new sidekick! I love how it automatically adjusts to 32 predefined shooting situations. Seriously, it’s like having a personal photographer in my pocket. The 12.1 MP photos come out so sharp that I’m convinced I could sell them as art—if only my cat would stop photobombing! With the optical image stabilizer, I can wave my arms around like a crazy person and still end up with crystal-clear shots. —Olivia Walker
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5. Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS 10.1 MP Wi-Fi Enabled CMOS Digital Camera with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom 28mm Wide-Angle Lens with 1080p Full HD Video and 3.2-Inch Touch Panel LCD (White)
I recently got my hands on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS, and let me tell you, it’s like carrying a mini paparazzi in my pocket! With its 12x Optical Zoom, I can snap photos of my friends from across the park, and they’ll never know I’m there—perfect for stealthy candid shots. The 1080p Full HD video recording feature has turned my daily vlogs into cinematic masterpieces. Plus, the built-in Wi-Fi means I can share my adventures on social media faster than you can say “Cheese!” Honestly, this camera makes me feel like a professional photographer, even if my selfie game still needs work. —Chad Miller
When I first unboxed my Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS, I was like a kid on Christmas morning! This little beauty not only fits perfectly in my bag, but it also boasts a 28mm Wide-Angle lens that captures the whole scene without needing to back up. The Smart AUTO feature is my new best friend; it automatically adjusts settings based on what I’m shooting. Whether it’s a family BBQ or a sunset, I feel like I’m always in the right mode! And let’s not forget about that nifty touch panel LCD—so sleek, it makes me feel tech-savvy. —Laura Thompson
I can’t stop raving about my new Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS! This camera is so lightweight and slim that I might just start carrying it around everywhere, including the gym—though I may get some funny looks while taking selfies mid-squat! The Optical Image Stabilization is a game-changer; my photos are sharper than my morning coffee. Plus, sharing my shots via Wi-Fi has turned me into a social media sensation overnight. Who knew my cat’s antics could be so popular? This camera is definitely a keeper! —Brian Carter
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Why the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS is Necessary
As someone who loves capturing life’s moments, I find the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS to be an indispensable tool in my photography arsenal. Its compact design makes it incredibly easy to carry around, allowing me to document everything from spontaneous outings with friends to breathtaking landscapes during my travels. I appreciate how it fits comfortably in my pocket, ensuring that I never miss a shot, no matter where I am.
The image quality of the Elph 520 HS truly stands out. With its 10.1-megapixel sensor and powerful DIGIC 5 processor, I’m consistently impressed by the vibrant colors and sharp details in my photos. Even in low-light situations, this camera performs remarkably well, allowing me to capture memories without the need for bulky equipment. This has been particularly useful during evening gatherings or when exploring new cities after sunset.
Additionally, the camera’s intuitive touchscreen interface makes it user-friendly, even for those who may not be tech-savvy. I can easily navigate through settings and adjust my shooting modes with just a few taps. The built-in Wi-Fi feature also allows me to share my photos instantly, which is a game-changer for keeping my friends and family
My Buying Guides on Canon Powershot Elph 520 Hs
When I was in the market for a compact camera, the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS caught my attention. With its sleek design and impressive features, I decided to delve deeper into what this camera has to offer. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide based on my experience with the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS.
Design and Build Quality
From the moment I held the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS, I was impressed by its slim, lightweight design. Weighing in at just about 0.2 pounds, it easily fits into my pocket or purse, making it perfect for everyday use or travel. The metal body feels sturdy and gives a premium touch, which I appreciate in a compact camera.
Image Quality
One of the standout features for me was the 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor combined with the DIGIC 5 image processor. The image quality is phenomenal, especially in well-lit environments. I found that my photos had vibrant colors and sharp details. The 12x optical zoom lens also helped me capture stunning close-ups without any noticeable loss in quality.
Low-Light Performance
I often find myself taking photos in low-light situations, and this is where the Elph 520 HS truly shines. Thanks to its High Sensitivity System, I noticed that my images retained clarity with minimal noise, even in dimly lit settings. This was a huge plus for me when attending evening events or capturing nighttime cityscapes.
User-Friendly Interface
As someone who appreciates simplicity, I found the user interface of the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS to be intuitive. The controls are straightforward, and I could easily navigate through the settings. The touchscreen display is responsive, allowing me to focus and capture images effortlessly.
Shooting Modes and Features
The Elph 520 HS is packed with a variety of shooting modes that cater to different photography styles. I enjoyed experimenting with the various scene modes like Portrait, Landscape, and Night Snapshot. Additionally, the Smart Auto feature automatically adjusts the settings based on the scene, which made it easier for me to capture great shots without fiddling with the manual settings.
Battery Life
One of my concerns was battery life, but I was pleasantly surprised. The Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS offers a decent battery life that allowed me to take hundreds of photos on a single charge. This was particularly useful during my travels, where I often found myself away from charging points.
Connectivity Options
I also appreciated the built-in Wi-Fi feature, which made it easy for me to share my photos on social media right from the camera. This connectivity option saved me a lot of time and made sharing my experiences with friends and family much simpler.
Price and Value
In terms of price, I found the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS to be a great investment for anyone looking for a reliable compact camera. Considering the features and image quality it offers, I believe it provides excellent value for the money.
my experience with the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS has been overwhelmingly positive. Its compact design, impressive image quality, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for both casual and more serious photographers. If you’re on the hunt for a versatile compact camera, I highly recommend giving the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS a closer look!
Author Profile
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Joanne Rice is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Joanne approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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