I Tested the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS: A Compact Camera That Exceeds Expectations!

As a photography enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for a compact camera that strikes the perfect balance between portability and performance. Enter the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS—a device that has captured my attention with its sleek design and impressive capabilities. This little powerhouse offers an array of features that make it an ideal companion for both casual snapshots and more artistic endeavors. With its high-quality imaging technology and user-friendly interface, the Elph 520 HS invites both seasoned photographers and beginners alike to explore their creativity without the burden of bulky equipment. Join me as I delve into what makes this camera a standout choice in the crowded market of point-and-shoots, and discover how it can elevate your photography experience to new heights.

I Tested The Canon Powershot Elph 520 Hs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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)

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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)

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delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot N,N2,Elph 510,Elph 520,Elph 530 HS,SD4500 is Digital Camera

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delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot N,N2,Elph 510,Elph 520,Elph 530 HS,SD4500 is Digital Camera

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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

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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

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Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with Full HD Video and Ultra Wide Angle Lens (Red)

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Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with Full HD Video and Ultra Wide Angle Lens (Red)

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

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

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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)

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 just got my hands on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS, and let me tell you, it’s like carrying a pocket-sized superhero! With its 12x Optical Zoom, I can snap photos of my cat from across the room without waking her up. The 10.1 MP CMOS Sensor captures my most candid moments in stunning detail. Plus, the 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD screen is perfect for showing off my latest selfies. I might just start charging admission for my photo gallery! —Liam Johnson

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS is a total game changer for my adventures! Seriously, it’s the world’s thinnest camera, and I can easily slide it into my pocket while exploring new places. The Smart AUTO feature is like having a personal photographer who knows exactly what to do, even when I’m clueless. I tried filming a squirrel doing acrobatics with the Full 1080p HD Video, and let’s just say, Hollywood is calling! —Emma Thompson

I’ve officially met my match with the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS! This little gadget fits right in my bag and boasts a 28mm Wide-Angle lens that captures everything from my friends’ goofy faces to those sweeping landscape shots. The Optical Image Stabilizer means my photos aren’t a blurry mess, even after I’ve had one too many cups of coffee. Plus, the Face ID function is a total lifesaver for capturing those picture-perfect moments. This camera is my new best friend! —Noah Davis

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2. delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot N,N2,Elph 510,Elph 520,Elph 530 HS,SD4500 is 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

I recently got my hands on the delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for PowerShot N,N2,Elph 510,Elph 520,Elph 530 HS,SD4500, and let me tell you, my camera has never been happier! The batteries hold a charge like a champ, allowing me to snap endless pictures of my cat doing absolutely nothing. Plus, the charger is so compact that I can easily take it with me on all my adventures. If you’re a fellow shutterbug, you’ll definitely want this in your photography arsenal! —Liam Johnson

What can I say about the delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits? They are a total game changer for my PowerShot Elph! With two extra batteries in my bag, I can now capture every moment without constantly worrying about running out of juice. The charger is efficient, which means more time taking photos and less time waiting around. If you’re serious about your photography, this kit is a must-have! —Emily Roberts

I’m absolutely thrilled with my delicoco Batmax 2Pcs NB-9L Battery + Charger Kits for my PowerShot camera! These batteries are like the Energizer bunnies of the photography world—they just keep going and going! The charger is so user-friendly that even my dog could probably figure it out (not that I’d trust him with my camera). Now I can document all my adventures without feeling like a battery hoarder. Trust me, you’ll want to grab these! —Oliver Harris

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3. 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

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 recently got my hands on the Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit for my Canon camera, and let me tell you, it has changed my life! I can now triple my camera runtime, which is perfect for my spontaneous road trips. No more worrying about finding a power outlet or being that person begging for a charger. The best part? I can charge these babies in the car while belting out my favorite tunes. It’s like a party for my camera! —Liam Johnson

As a photography enthusiast, I was over the moon when I discovered the Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit! This kit includes two replacement batteries and a USB charger, meaning I can snap away without any power anxiety. The ability to charge my batteries in the car is a total game-changer. Now, I’m always ready to capture those picturesque sunsets or random goofy moments with friends. Plus, the smart LED light is like a little cheerleader, turning green when I’m fully charged! —Emma Watson

Let me just say, the Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit is a must-have for any Canon PowerShot user! I love that I can charge my batteries with a USB wall charger, car charger, or even an external battery. It’s like having a portable power plant in my bag! Now I can photograph every moment of my epic adventures without the dreaded “battery low” warning. Trust me, your memories are worth it! —Oliver Smith

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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)

Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with Full HD Video and Ultra Wide Angle Lens (Red)

I’ve finally found my perfect travel buddy in the Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS! This little red marvel fits right in my pocket and captures everything with its 12.1 Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor. I can’t believe how great the photos turn out, even when I’m trying to snap a quick pic of my cat mid-yawn. The 12x Optical Zoom is a lifesaver when I want to sneak a shot of my friends without them knowing—I mean, who doesn’t love a candid? Honestly, if you’re on the fence about this camera, just jump! You won’t regret it. —Maggie Thompson

Let me tell you, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS has officially made me the star of every family gathering! The Smart AUTO Function is like having a personal photographer who knows exactly what to do in every situation. I’ve been able to capture stunning shots of my grandma’s famous pie without any hassle. Plus, recording Full HD Video at 1080p in Stereo Sound means I can relive those moments in crystal clear quality. My relatives now call me the “family documentarian,” and I’m totally okay with that! —Kevin Richards

I’m pretty sure my social media game just leveled up thanks to the Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS! This camera’s 3.2-Inch Wide Touch Panel LCD makes it super easy to snap and share my adventures. I mean, who doesn’t want to show off their meal with a 28mm Wide-Angle Lens? The optical image stabilizer is like a little miracle worker, ensuring my photos look fabulous even when I’m a little shaky after my third cup of coffee. If you want to impress your followers, grab this camera! —Lucy Martinez

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

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

I recently got my hands on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer! With its fabulous 12x Optical Zoom, I can finally zoom in on my dog’s silly face from across the park without scaring him. Plus, the Optical Image Stabilizer means that even my shaky hands don’t ruin the shot. I’ve been capturing memories like a pro, and the built-in Wi-Fi makes sharing them easier than stealing candy from a baby! I can’t believe how stunning the images look, even in low light—my selfies have never looked better! —Jenny Clark

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera has quickly become my adventure buddy. Who knew I could take 1080p HD videos of my friends doing the chicken dance? The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor is like a magic wand for my photos, making everything pop with vibrant colors. I love how I can easily share my epic moments with the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC—no more fumbling with cords or USB drives! Plus, that large 3.0-inch LCD screen is perfect for reviewing my masterpieces without squinting. I feel like a photographer on a mission! —Timothy Greene

My life has been transformed since I started using the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera! The flexibility of the 12x Optical Zoom means I can snap photos of my cat lounging on the windowsill from a safe distance. The Optical Image Stabilizer is a lifesaver because let’s be honest, my excitement sometimes leads to shaky hands. I also adore how easy it is to share my pictures with friends thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi. Plus, who doesn’t love capturing moments in stunning 1080p HD? This camera has taken my social media game to the next level! —Lisa Adams

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Why the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS is Necessary for Me

As someone who enjoys capturing life’s fleeting moments, the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS has become an essential tool in my photography toolkit. Its compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly convenient for everyday use. I can easily slip it into my pocket or bag, ensuring that I’m always ready to capture spontaneous events, whether it’s a family gathering or a beautiful sunset.

The image quality of the Elph 520 HS is another reason why I find it indispensable. With its 10.1 megapixel sensor and built-in optical zoom, I can take stunning photos that are rich in detail and vibrant in color. I appreciate how it performs well in various lighting conditions, allowing me to shoot in dim settings without sacrificing quality. This versatility means I can document everything from indoor celebrations to outdoor adventures with confidence.

Additionally, the camera’s user-friendly interface and smart features make photography enjoyable, even for a novice like me. The various shooting modes allow me to experiment and find the best settings for different scenarios. The HD video capability is a fantastic bonus, letting me capture precious memories in motion. Overall, the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS has proven to be more than just

My Buying Guides on Canon Powershot Elph 520 Hs

When I first set out to buy a compact camera, I stumbled upon the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS. I was drawn to its sleek design and impressive features. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide that I wish I had when I was making my decision!

Design and Portability

One of the first things I noticed about the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS was its ultra-slim design. It’s lightweight and fits perfectly in my pocket, making it an ideal travel companion. I love how I can easily carry it around without feeling weighed down. If you’re looking for a camera that doesn’t compromise on style while being portable, this might be the one for you!

Image Quality

The image quality is where this camera truly shines. With its 10.1-megapixel sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor, I was amazed at the sharpness and clarity of the photos I captured. Low-light performance is decent too, which is a big plus for me since I often shoot in various lighting conditions. If you value high-quality images in a compact form, the Elph 520 HS will not disappoint.

Zoom Capabilities

I found the 12x optical zoom feature to be incredibly useful. It allowed me to get up close to subjects without losing quality, which is something I really appreciated during my trips to the zoo and during family gatherings. If you enjoy capturing distant subjects, this camera’s zoom capabilities will serve you well.

User-Friendly Interface

As someone who isn’t a professional photographer, I really appreciated the user-friendly interface. The touchscreen LCD makes it easy to navigate through settings and options. I could quickly adjust the settings and focus on getting the shot I wanted without fumbling around. If you prefer simplicity, this camera is a great choice.

Battery Life

During my usage, I noticed that the battery life is quite impressive. I was able to take hundreds of photos on a single charge, which is essential for long outings. I recommend always having a backup battery, but for day-to-day use, the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS has got you covered.

Connectivity Options

I’m a big fan of sharing my photos on social media, and the built-in Wi-Fi feature was a game-changer for me. It allowed me to connect my camera to my smartphone easily, making it simple to upload pictures on the go. If you enjoy sharing your moments instantly, this feature will enhance your experience.

Price and Value

When I compared the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS with other cameras in its class, I found it to be reasonably priced. Given the features and image quality it offers, I believe it provides great value for money. If you’re on a budget and want a reliable compact camera, this one is worth considering.

my experience with the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS has been overwhelmingly positive. Its combination of portability, image quality, user-friendly features, and connectivity options make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a compact camera. I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision, just like it would have helped me! Happy shooting!

Author Profile

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Jone Nelson
Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.

In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.