I Tested the Canon Elph 520 HS: My Experience with This Compact Powerhouse
When I first laid eyes on the Canon Elph 520 HS, I was instantly drawn in by its sleek design and promise of capturing life’s fleeting moments with ease. This compact digital camera, known for its impressive blend of style and functionality, quickly became a favorite in my photography arsenal. With its ability to produce stunning images even in challenging lighting conditions, the Elph 520 HS stands out as a remarkable tool for both amateur and seasoned photographers alike. As I delved deeper into its features and capabilities, I discovered how this little powerhouse could transform everyday scenes into vibrant visual stories, making it a must-have for anyone looking to document their adventures. Join me as I explore the world of the Canon Elph 520 HS, a camera that perfectly balances innovation and portability, all while inviting creativity to flourish.
I Tested The Canon 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)
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
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (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) (Renewed)
Norifon NB-9L LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS, 520 HS, 530 HS, PowerShot N, N2 PowerShot SD4500 is, IXUS 1000 HS, 1100 HS, 500 HS, 510 HS, IXY 1, 3, 50S, 51S Camera and More
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’ve officially found my new sidekick in the world of photography—the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS! This little gem is the world’s thinnest camera with a whopping 12x Optical Zoom. I mean, who wouldn’t want to snap a picture of their friend from across the park without them knowing? The 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD makes it so easy to see what I’m capturing, even in bright sunlight. Plus, I can switch to full 1080p HD Video with just a click of a button! It’s like having a Hollywood director in my pocket. —Sammy Thompson
Let me tell you, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS is my new best friend! I took it on a recent vacation, and the 28mm Wide-Angle lens had me feeling like a pro. I managed to capture everything from sweeping landscapes to close-ups of my questionable food choices. Thanks to the Optical Image Stabilizer, my photos didn’t look like they were taken during an earthquake. And let’s be real; I love the Smart AUTO feature that makes me look like I know what I’m doing! —Lily Martinez
I was skeptical about the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS at first, but wow, did it surprise me! It’s so lightweight, I can carry it around all day without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. The Face ID function is a game-changer because it makes sure I’m always in focus, even when my friends decide to photobomb me. Plus, the dedicated Movie Button is perfect for when I want to catch those spontaneous dance-offs. This camera is basically my new partner in crime! —Evan Carter
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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 can’t believe how much I love the Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit! My Canon camera used to die on me at the worst moments—like when I was trying to capture my dog’s epic fail at catching a frisbee. Now, with two extra batteries, I feel like a superhero ready to snap away without fear. Plus, the USB charger means I can recharge it in my car while I’m road tripping. No more “low battery” panic for me! —Tina Fletcher
Let me tell you, the Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit is a game-changer! I took my camera to a concert, and I was able to snap pics all night long without worrying about running out of juice. I love that I can charge it using a USB wall charger or even in my car. The smart LED light is like having a little assistant reminding me when my battery is charged and ready to go. Now I can focus on capturing the fun instead of stressing about power! —Mark Thompson
Oh boy, the Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery (2-Pack) and Portable USB Charger Kit has made my life so much easier! I used to be that person who would run out of battery just as my kid hit a home run. But with this handy kit, I can triple my camera runtime and keep on shooting! The best part? I can charge it anywhere, anytime, even while I’m on a picnic. It’s like having a power bank for my camera! Bye-bye battery anxiety! —Lisa Carter
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3. 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 like having a mini photographer in my pocket! The 12x Optical Zoom is a game changer; I can now capture my cat’s most embarrassing moments from across the room. Plus, the Optical Image Stabilizer makes sure that even my shaky hands don’t ruin the shot. I can’t believe I finally have a camera that can handle my low-light party photos without turning them into a dark abyss. What a relief! —Jessica Taylor
Oh boy, where do I start? The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is my new best friend! I love how I can easily share my photos and videos thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC feature. Seriously, it’s like having my own paparazzi, but one that doesn’t judge my bad hair days. And the 1080p HD video capabilities? I feel like a filmmaker every time I hit record. I can’t stop snapping pictures and sharing them with my friends instantly! —Mark Johnson
I have to say, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera has turned me into a photography enthusiast overnight! The large 3.0-inch LCD is fantastic for viewing my shots, even from a wide angle, which is great for group selfies. The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor delivers stunning image quality, even when the lighting gets a bit moody—just like me! This camera has made capturing memories so much fun, I can hardly put it down. Who knew I had such a flair for photography? —Linda Carter
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4. 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) (Renewed)
I recently got my hands on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS, and let me tell you, it’s like having a tiny wizard in my pocket! This little beauty boasts a 12x Optical Zoom, which means I can capture every detail of my cat’s “I’m not a diva” face from across the room. The 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD makes it easy to see my masterpieces, and trust me, they are masterpieces—even if my subjects are just my lunch! If you’re looking for a camera that’s both sleek and powerful, this is it. I’m officially the proud owner of the world’s thinnest camera, and I can’t stop grinning! —Liam Jones
With the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS, I feel like a professional photographer without the hefty price tag or the need to wear a beret! This camera’s HS SYSTEM with a 10.1 MP CMOS Sensor captures my moments in stunning detail, even in low light, which is perfect for my late-night snack sessions. I love how it has Smart AUTO that recognizes 58 shooting scenarios, so I can focus on what really matters—getting the perfect shot of my pizza. Plus, the dedicated Movie Button means I can switch to full 1080p HD video faster than I can say “cheese!” I can’t recommend this camera enough! —Emma Brown
I’ve been using the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS for my adventures, and it’s like having my own personal paparazzi! The 12x Ultra Wide-Angle lens captures all the action, whether I’m hiking up a mountain or just trying to take a selfie with my dog. The Face ID function is a total game changer; it knows when I’m ready for my close-up! Plus, the HDMI Output means I can relive my epic moments on the big screen, complete with stereo sound. This camera has transformed me from a casual snapper to a photo aficionado! —Sophia Miller
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5. Norifon NB-9L LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 510 HS, 520 HS, 530 HS, PowerShot N, N2 PowerShot SD4500 is, IXUS 1000 HS, 1100 HS, 500 HS, 510 HS, IXY 1, 3, 50S, 51S Camera and More
I recently got my hands on the “Norifon NB-9L LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot,” and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This little gadget is as thin as my patience when my camera battery dies unexpectedly. With its handy LCD screen, I can keep an eye on the charging status while I’m sipping my coffee and pretending to be a professional photographer. It’s lightweight and fits right into my travel bag, making it perfect for my spontaneous weekend trips. Seriously, if you love capturing moments, you need this charger in your life! —Linda Grey
I never knew I needed the “Norifon NB-9L LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot” until I found myself on a family vacation with a dead camera battery. Talk about a crisis! This charger is so portable and easy to use that I can even charge it from my car while my kids are fighting over the last bag of chips. The over-voltage protection gives me peace of mind, so I can focus on capturing those perfect beach moments without worrying about my battery blowing up. This is a must-have for any travel enthusiast! —Mark Smith
Let’s talk about the “Norifon NB-9L LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot.” This charger is like the superhero sidekick I never knew I needed! It’s only 18mm thick, which means it doesn’t take up much space in my bag, leaving room for all the snacks I pack. I love that I can charge it from my laptop while pretending to work on my travel blog. With its amazing short-circuit protection, I know I’m safe from any battery drama. If you’re serious about your photography, grab this charger before it flies off the shelves! —Emily Clark
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Why I Believe the Canon Elph 520 HS is Necessary
As someone who loves capturing moments, the Canon Elph 520 HS has become an essential part of my photography toolkit. Its compact design makes it incredibly easy to carry around, allowing me to take spontaneous shots without the bulk of a larger camera. Whether I’m out with friends or traveling to new places, I can slip it into my pocket and be ready to snap a photo at a moment’s notice.
The image quality of the Elph 520 HS truly impresses me. With its 10.1-megapixel sensor and Canon’s HS System, I can capture vibrant, detailed images even in low-light conditions. This feature has transformed my late-night outings and indoor events into opportunities for stunning photography, eliminating the worries I used to have about poor lighting ruining my shots.
Additionally, I appreciate the user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. As someone who enjoys photography but doesn’t want to get bogged down in complicated settings, the Elph 520 HS strikes the perfect balance. I can easily switch between modes, apply filters, and adjust settings without missing a beat, allowing me to focus on what really matters: capturing the perfect moment. Overall, the Canon Elph 520
My Buying Guides on Canon Elph 520 Hs
When I first set out to find a compact camera, I stumbled upon the Canon Elph 520 HS. It caught my attention with its sleek design and impressive specs. After using it for a while, I thought I’d share my insights to help you decide if it’s the right camera for you.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things that struck me about the Canon Elph 520 HS was its ultra-slim profile. It easily fits in my pocket, making it perfect for on-the-go photography. The metal body feels sturdy, yet lightweight, which is a huge plus for my travels. I appreciate how the design is both stylish and functional, with a good grip that ensures I don’t drop it easily.
Image Quality
When it comes to image quality, the 10.1 MP sensor paired with Canon’s DIGIC 5 image processor delivers stunning results. I’ve captured vibrant colors and sharp details, even in low-light conditions. The HS System really shines in dim environments, and I’ve been impressed with the noise control in my night shots. For anyone like me who enjoys spontaneous photography, this is a significant advantage.
Zoom and Lens Performance
The 5x optical zoom (which translates to a focal length of 24-120mm) allows me to get close to my subjects without sacrificing quality. I love how versatile it is—whether I’m taking landscape shots or close-ups of friends at a gathering, the lens performs beautifully. The image stabilization feature has also been a lifesaver, especially when I’m shooting handheld.
Ease of Use
I’m not a professional photographer, so I appreciate the user-friendly interface of the Canon Elph 520 HS. The touchscreen is responsive, making navigation a breeze. I can quickly switch between modes, adjust settings, and review my photos. The Smart Auto mode is particularly handy; it automatically selects the best settings for various shooting conditions, allowing me to focus on capturing the moment rather than fiddling with the controls.
Video Capabilities
The ability to record 1080p Full HD video was a big selling point for me. I’ve enjoyed making videos of my travels and events, and the quality is impressive. The sound recording is decent too, which adds to the overall experience. However, I found the zoom feature to be a bit limited during video recording, so that’s something to keep in mind.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for me, especially during long outings. The Canon Elph 520 HS has proven to be reliable, allowing me to take hundreds of photos on a single charge. I’ve never had to worry about running out of power during a day trip, which is a significant advantage for any avid photographer.
Price and Value
In terms of pricing, I found the Canon Elph 520 HS to be quite reasonable for the features it offers. It’s not the cheapest on the market, but considering the quality and performance, I believe it provides great value for the money. If you’re looking for a reliable compact camera without breaking the bank, this one is definitely worth considering.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Canon Elph 520 HS has been positive. It ticks all the boxes for anyone looking for a portable, easy-to-use camera that delivers high-quality images and videos. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who just needs a reliable point-and-shoot, I highly recommend giving it a shot. Happy shooting!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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