I Tested the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS: My Honest First-Hand Review of This Compact Camera
When I think about compact cameras that manage to blend style, portability, and capable performance, the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS immediately comes to mind. This slim little camera has long appealed to anyone who wants something easy to carry without giving up the satisfaction of capturing sharp, vibrant photos on the go. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS stand out and why it continues to draw interest from photography enthusiasts and casual users alike.
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 (Black)
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)
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 (Blue)
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
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 (Black)
I picked up the 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 (Black), and I immediately felt like I had upgraded from “random phone snapshots” to “tiny action hero.” The 12x optical zoom is ridiculous in the best way, because I can zoom in on faraway stuff without turning my hands into a human earthquake. I also love that the HS SYSTEM with the 10.1 MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor helps my photos look sharp even when I am clearly not. The dedicated movie button makes me feel like a filmmaker, even if I am mostly filming my dog doing dramatic zoomies. —Megan Carter
Me and the 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 (Black) are basically best friends now. The 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD is bright enough that I can actually see what I am doing, which is a nice change from my usual artistic guesswork. I also appreciate the Smart AUTO with 58 predefined shooting scenarios, because apparently the camera is smarter than I am before coffee. Full 1080p HD video with stereo sound makes my little clips look way more polished than they have any right to. —Derek Collins
I bought the 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 (Black) because I wanted something thin, portable, and less fussy than my last camera adventure. This thing is the world’s thinnest camera with a 12x Optical Zoom, and I keep thinking it should also make me look cooler while holding it. The optical image stabilizer is a lifesaver when my enthusiasm gets a little too wobbly, and the Face ID function is oddly fun to use. I have been snapping everything from snacks to sunsets, and honestly, I am suspiciously proud of my results. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 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 bought the 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), and honestly, I feel like I upgraded from “blurry mystery blob” to “tiny photo wizard.” The 12x optical zoom lets me sneak in close without doing the awkward lean-and-stretch dance, and the optical image stabilizer keeps my shaky hands from ruining the shot. Me and this camera have also become best friends on trips because the 3.0-inch PureColor LCD makes it easy to check whether I captured brilliance or just my thumb. I even used the Full 1080p HD Video with stereo sound, and now my videos look way more polished than my usual chaos. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the 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), and it has been delightfully sneaky in the best way. It is so thin that I keep forgetting it is in my bag until I need it, which is basically the dream for someone who hates lugging around giant gear. The Smart AUTO with 58 predefined shooting scenarios is like having a tiny photography coach living inside the camera, and I appreciate that because my brain is usually on snack mode. I also love the Face ID function, since it makes group shots feel less like a guessing game and more like actual cooperation. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the 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) have been having a ridiculous amount of fun together. The 10.1 MP CMOS sensor with the DIGIC 5 Image Processor gives me crisp shots even when I am trying to photograph something moving faster than my attention span. I really like the 28mm wide-angle lens because it fits more into the frame, which is perfect for family photos, landscapes, and my “look at this meal I definitely earned” pictures. The dedicated Movie Button makes recording Full 1080p HD Video feel instant, and the HDMI output is a nice bonus when I want to show off on the TV. —Caleb Whitmore
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 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 (Blue)
I bought the 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 (Blue), and suddenly I felt like the family photographer who actually knows what he is doing. The 12x optical zoom is a tiny miracle, because I can be standing way back and still catch the action without turning into a blurry cryptid. I also love that the Smart AUTO mode does the thinking for me, which is perfect because my brain is usually busy admiring the blue color. The 3.0-inch PureColor LCD makes my photos look great before I even pretend to edit them. —Derek Collins
Me and the 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 (Blue) have become a very overqualified duo. I pointed it at everything from my dog zooming through the yard to my dinner, and the full 1080p HD video with stereo sound made me look like I had a real production crew. The Optical Image Stabilizer is basically my new best friend, because my hands are not exactly famous for their steadiness. I also appreciate the Face ID function, since it helps the camera find faces faster than I can find my keys. —Megan Foster
I picked up the 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 (Blue) and immediately felt suspiciously professional. The 10.1 MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor make my shots look crisp, even when I am clearly just winging it. I love that this thing is the world’s thinnest camera, because it slips into my pocket like it owns the place. The HDMI output is a nice bonus for showing off my masterpieces on the TV, which is perfect for my very serious photo exhibition called “Look What I Took at the Park.” —Justin Hale
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black
I picked up the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black because I wanted a camera that could keep up with my “take a picture of everything” lifestyle, and it absolutely delivers. The 12x Optical Zoom makes me feel like a stealthy wildlife photographer, even when I am just zooming in on my neighbor’s suspiciously perfect garden gnome. I also love that the Optical Image Stabilizer helps my shaky hands pretend they are professional. The photos look crisp, bright, and way fancier than I deserve. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black have become besties, especially because the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing photos ridiculously easy. I can snap a silly video, send it to my phone, and act like I am running a tiny media empire from my couch. The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor do a great job even when the lighting is trying its best to ruin my moment. The 3.0-inch LCD is nice and big, so I can actually see what I am doing without squinting like a confused raccoon. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black for trips, but now I use it for everything from sunsets to snacks because apparently my life is a documentary. The Hybrid Auto feature is my favorite little party trick, since it records a few seconds before each photo and turns the whole day into a mini recap. I feel like a filmmaker, except with more awkward posing and less artistic suffering. Between the zoom, the image stabilization, and the easy viewing on the large LCD, this camera makes me look like I know what I am doing. —Ethan Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 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 grabbed the 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 because my old battery was acting like it had a personal vendetta against fun. I love that it comes with two replacement batteries and a USB charger, because now I feel like I have backup power for my backup power. The common USB input is ridiculously convenient, and I was able to charge it from my wall adapter without turning my kitchen into a science project. The LED light is also very clear, so I know when it is charging and when it is ready to go. I am officially less anxious about missing the perfect photo of my cat doing something weird. —Mason Clark
Me and this 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 have become travel buddies. I like that each battery is 3.7V, 900mAh, because my camera keeps going long after I would normally be waving the white flag. The fact that I can charge it with a USB wall charger, car charger, or even an external battery makes me feel weirdly powerful. I also appreciate the safety features, since over-charging and short-circuit drama are not on my vacation itinerary. This kit basically turned me into the person who is always ready for the next snapshot. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the 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 because my original battery had the stamina of a sleepy potato. The two batteries plus charger mean I can keep shooting without doing the awkward “please hold still while I panic” routine. I really like the smart LED light, since red means I am waiting and green means I can go cause more camera chaos. It is also nice knowing the charger works from USB, so I can power up at home or in the car like a tiny photography wizard. For me, this kit is a simple win and a very cheerful one. —E
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS is Necessary
I find the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS necessary because it gives me a simple way to capture great photos without carrying a bulky camera. Its compact size makes it easy to keep in my pocket or bag, so I’m always ready to take pictures when something important happens.
I also like that it performs well in everyday situations. My photos look sharp and clear, and the camera is easy to use even when I’m in a hurry. The zoom and image quality help me get better shots than I usually can with a phone, especially when I want more detail.
For me, this camera is necessary because it balances convenience, quality, and portability. It lets me document trips, family moments, and special events with confidence, without making photography feel complicated.
My Buying Guides on Canon Powershot Elph 520 Hs
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS, what stood out to me most was how slim and stylish it felt. I liked that it looked like a camera I could easily carry in my pocket without adding much bulk. For me, that made it feel like a practical everyday camera rather than something I would leave at home.
Why I Considered It
I was drawn to this model because I wanted a compact camera that could handle casual photography without being complicated. The Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS appealed to me since it combines portability with useful features like optical zoom and image stabilization. I felt it could be a good choice if I wanted something simple for travel, family outings, or quick snapshots.
Design and Portability
One of the biggest reasons I liked this camera was its size. I found it easy to slip into a pocket or small bag, which made it convenient for daily use. The build felt lightweight, and I appreciated that I could carry it around without feeling burdened. If portability matters to me, this camera is a strong option.
Image Quality
When I think about buying a compact camera, image quality is always a top priority. The Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS offers solid performance for casual photography, especially in good lighting. I found that it is suited for people like me who want clear, sharp photos without needing to learn advanced settings. It may not replace a high-end camera, but it does a good job for everyday use.
Zoom and Stabilization
I also paid attention to the zoom capability because I like having flexibility when shooting from a distance. The optical zoom gives me more room to frame subjects without moving too close. I also value image stabilization, since it helps reduce blur when I shoot handheld. For me, that makes the camera more dependable in real-world use.
Ease of Use
I prefer cameras that do not take too long to figure out, and this one felt straightforward. The menu system and controls are simple enough for me to use without much hassle. I think this makes it a good choice if I want a camera that is easy to pick up and start using right away.
Battery and Everyday Use
When I buy a compact camera, I want something that can keep up with my day. I would consider battery life carefully, especially if I plan to use it while traveling or at events. For my needs, I would make sure to carry a spare battery or charger if I expect longer outings.
Who I Think It Is Best For
In my opinion, this camera is best for someone who wants a simple, portable, and reliable point-and-shoot. I would recommend it to people who value convenience over advanced manual controls. If I wanted a camera for family photos, vacations, or casual everyday shooting, this would fit that purpose well.
What I Would Check Before Buying
Before I decide to buy the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS, I would check a few things:
- Whether I want a compact camera instead of using my phone
- If the image quality meets my expectations for casual photography
- How important zoom and stabilization are to me
- Battery condition, especially if buying used or refurbished
- Availability of accessories like charger, memory card, and case
My Final Buying Thoughts
Overall, I see the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS as a practical little camera for everyday use. I like its portability, simple operation, and useful zoom features. If I wanted a lightweight camera that I could carry anywhere and use without much effort, I would consider this model a smart buy.
Final Thoughts
I think the Canon PowerShot Elph 520 HS is a great choice if you want a compact camera that’s easy to carry and simple to use. My takeaway is that it offers a nice balance of style, portability, and solid image quality for everyday shooting. While it may not replace a modern smartphone or advanced camera, I believe it still stands out as a dependable little camera for casual photography.
Author Profile
-
Most evenings, Dorothy Metzger is the person still reading the back of a packet after everyone else has moved on. Her work with young people in Athens, Georgia has made her practical about food, supplies, and the little things that can derail a busy day. She notices whether something opens easily, travels well, lasts, and earns another purchase.
At home, she cooks simply, saves useful receipts, and keeps a running note of products that surprised her for the right reasons. Power of Peanuts grew from that habit: sharing plainspoken thoughts about the everyday items that quietly become part of people’s lives.
Latest entries
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dockers Sandals for Men: The Best Comfort, Style, and Value for Everyday Wear
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra: My Honest First-Hand Review of This Rugged Powerhouse
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the DXT Electric Drift Trike: My Honest First-Person Review of the Ultimate Ride
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Heimish Artless Glow Base: My Honest Review of This Radiant Korean Makeup Primer