A memory card is required but not included with this item. Please be sure to purchase a memory card that suits your needs.
The PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera from Canon is a 10.1MP digital point-and-shoot camera with a long 12x zoom, and the 35mm equivalent of a 28-336mm telephoto zoom lens. The camera utilizes several types of image stabilization, which is also used during the 720p HD video recording, and features dozens of helpful shooting modes.
With its 10.1 megapixel image sensor the ELPH 520 HS captures images at a maximum 3648 x 2736 resolution, and videos in 720p. This gives you the ability to enlarge or crop a section of your image for printing or sharing online. The Intelligent IS image stabilization system ensures those photos and videos are as sharp as possible and not blurred due to low lighting, camera shake, or a fast-moving subject. It will analyze the scene, and subjects within it, to determine the best stabilization technique to employ for any given shot.
View your images on the 3.0" PureColor LCD display that can help you compose before you shoot and review them afterward - even in bright sunlight. You may also notice it has better color representation and a truer view of the images you capture.
With advanced technologies like Smart Shutter, Face ID and Tracking AF it'll be easier to capture the photos you want without even pressing a button. Smart Shutter allows you to capture photos by simply walking into view of the camera - taking a photo when it recognizes your face. Simply use the Face Detection feature to register your face, and up to 12 others. For more accurate photos you can also use the Tracking AF function that will track your chosen target, keeping them in focus no matter where they move within the frame.
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Pixels |
Actual: 10.1 Megapixel Effective: 10.1 Megapixel |
| Sensor | 1/2.3" CMOS |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG Movies: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, MOV Audio: Linear PCM |
| Max Resolution | 9.5MP: 3648 x 2736 @ 4:3 |
| Other Resolutions |
7.1MP: 3648 x 2048 @ 16:9 8.4MP: 3648 x 2432 @ 3:2 7.5MP: 2736 x 2736 @ 1:1 4.5MP: 2816 x 1584 @ 16:9 5.3MP: 2816 x 1880 @ 3:2 6MP: 2816 x 2112 @ 4:3 4.5MP: 2112 x 2112 @ 1:1 2MP: 1920 x 1080 @ 16:9 1.7MP: 1600 x 1064 @ 3:2 2MP: 1600 x 1200 @ 4:3 1.4MP: 1200 x 1200 @ 1:1 0.3MP: 640 x 360 @ 16:9 0.23MP: 640 x 424 @ 3:2 0.3MP: 640 x 480 @ 4:3 0.23MP: 480 x 480 @ 1:1 |
| Aspect Ratio | 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, 16:9 |
| Image Stabilization | Optical & Digital |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
EFL: 4-48 mm (35 mm equivalent: 28-336 mm) Aperture: f/3.4 (W) - 5.6 (T) |
| Filter Thread | None |
| Zoom |
Optical: 12x Digital: 4x |
| Focus Range |
Auto: 0.4" (1.02 cm) - Infinity Normal: 2" (5.08 cm) - Infinity Macro: 0.4" (1.02 cm) - 1.6' (48.77 cm) |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 100-3200 |
| Shutter | 15 - 1/4000 sec |
| Exposure Metering | Center-weighted, Evaluative, Face Detection, Spot |
| Exposure Modes |
Modes: AE Lock Compensation: -2 EV to +2 EV (in 0.3 EV steps) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Custom, Daylight, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Tungsten |
| Burst Rate | Up to 6.8 fps |
| Self Timer | 10 Sec, 2 Sec |
| Remote Control | None |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Flash Modes |
Auto Flash On Off Slow Sync |
| Built-in Flash | Yes |
| Effective Flash Range |
Wide: 1.6 - 8.2' (0.49 - 2.50 m) Telephoto: 3.3 - 4.9' (1.01 - 1.49 m) |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Memory Card Type |
microSD microSDHC microSDXC |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC/PAL |
| Video | |
|---|---|
| Audio Recording | With Video, Stereo |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Screen | 3" LCD Rear Screen (461000 pixels) |
| Connectivity/System Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | 1x AV Output, HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 (out) |
| Environmental | |
|---|---|
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
Operating 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C) Humidity: 10 - 90% |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | NB-9L Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 3.5VDC |
| AC Power Adapter | CA-DC10 (Optional) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 3.43 x 2.12 x 0.76" / 8.71 x 5.38 x 1.93 cm |
| Weight | 4.76 oz / 135 g Camera only |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Canon Elph Keeps Getting Better!
I love the Canon Elph line of point and shoot cameras, and have owned just about all the versions leading up to the 520 HS. I travel frequently, and I do not like to...Read complete review
I love the Canon Elph line of point and shoot cameras, and have owned just about all the versions leading up to the 520 HS. I travel frequently, and I do not like to carry my Rebel T3i on our trips. Instead, I pack the latest Canon Elph with extra batteries, and am always pleased with the pictures. Family and friends that view them cannot believe they are captured on such a small camera.! So, why buy the newest Elph? Quite simply - the 12x optical zoom. This increases the reach by 2.4 times over the Elph 300 HS. Size? It is exactly the size (and feel) of the Elph SD1000 (the boxey silver camera with the "black eye".) Image stablization, face recognition, and HD video capabilities are all great. And, of course, pictures continue to be excellent! What I did not like was the change in battery size (uses NB-9L versus the NB-4L), and the change in memory card (uses a microSD versus the standard SD card). I continue to be impressed by Canon's constant improvements to the world's best pocketable cameras!
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Dissappointing Noise at full size
Bought it... returned it within **one day**. I could not recommend it to anyone who likes decent full size pics (at actual resolution). The noise is apparent at almost *...Read complete review
Bought it... returned it within **one day**. I could not recommend it to anyone who likes decent full size pics (at actual resolution). The noise is apparent at almost **all** ISO levels! For the money, I would have expected at least a little better quality. I would highly recommend instead, the Canon S100 if you want quality shots with a fair zoom (only 5x)... or the significantly cheaper SX260 which has a better lense with slightly better quality and terrific zoom.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 23 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
i was looking for such camera from long time. it is aesthetic, simple and easy in use. 12x zoom is wonderful for such small camera. display is clear and bright - no problems to see in a bright light. i bought it for my wife for shooting birds on our backyard - zoom and image quality were the main factors, size and easy of use - the second. for now i can say - it fulfill our requirements perfectly.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
its great in diff light. also gud for takin pics of my baby who moves a lot!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
excelent!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Silver):
I love this compact camera. the quality of pics and clarity is amazing. Especially the fantastic zoom which allows me to take great close-ups.
The battery seem to run out faster then other cameras I had, so I do recommend to get 2, so there is always one charged ready to be replaced...
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
I bought the Camera for 60 years old mother. She needs a Camera which is easy to use and good to work with.
You will found all of that in the Canon Powershot.
The pictures are great and i love the colours of Canon cameras.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Red):
Small, easy to use camera. Good zoom.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
I wanted a camera that could fit in my shirt or jacket pocket and was easy to use on the go. I use it to take pictures of my kids playing soccer as well as when hiking and fishing. It is easy to use and doesn't have too many buttons. The zoom is much better than my previous cheaper camera. The HD movies are also very clear. Very pleased, would highly recommend spending the extra money for the higher quality.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
it is very simple to use
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
Using family photos and hiking
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
I've had an old reliable Canon Elph for a while, but the lense finally wouldn't retract anymore. While I've "been away" - the Canon's have gotten faster, sharper, better at video, better with image stablization, etc. And I love the winning B&H service in helping to pick out the right camera. Lastly, the price is right (and if you factor in the peace of mind that you really picked the best choice of ALL available - it's a no brainer !). Ya' gotta go to B&H !!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
The first thing that catches the eye is the shiny color & box-like shape. I have been buying Canon cameras for many years, and like them. The camera is easy to use and takes good, sharp photos. It's a bit tricky to delete a photo, but that's not always a bad thing (once you do it a couple of times, it's no big deal). I have had it for about a month now with no problems.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
I bought this camera before I went on a trip to Europe with my husband and I also bought it because my old camera wasn't taking good video clips. We took the most beautiful pictures during our trip and we continue taking amazing pictures of our two children. It's a very good camera for indoor and outdoor picture taking. I also took a video clip without realizing and I agree that the button is located in a place that can be touched by chance. Another downside about this camera is that the pictures taken with the zoom used at its max are a little grainy but that doesn't bother me. Who wants "perfect" looking pictures nowadays? Overall, I'm very, very happy with the camera. What I like the most about the camera is the quality of the pictures/video and that it's very compact.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
Bought it... returned it within **one day**. I could not recommend it to anyone who likes decent full size pics (at actual resolution). The noise is apparent at almost **all** ISO levels! For the money, I would have expected at least a little better quality. I would highly recommend instead, the Canon S100 if you want quality shots with a fair zoom (only 5x)... or the significantly cheaper SX260 which has a better lense with slightly better quality and terrific zoom.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
A good little camera. Very portable. Nice pictures. Expensive for the camera of its type but if you can afford it, go for it
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
I am happy with the Cannon Elph 520 that I recently purchased. I have used it to photograph people, mountain scenes, spring wildflowers, and birds with results very adequate for me. The only thing that I find unusual is that I've taken two videos that I didn't know about until I downloaded photos. The button appears to be in a location that gets hit easily by mistake.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
I really like this camera!
It is so easy to carry with you, the picture quality is good, and there are some cool features. I have only tried a few of the shooting modes, and I liked them.
I could definitely recommend this camera to anyone looking for a small point&shoot camera.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Silver):
Very small and slim with a powerful zoom and good low light capabilities.
You can zoom while shooting video.
Get a protective case because the integrated lens cover looks very delicate.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Silver):
This small but powerful camera is extremely versatile and rather easy to use. I would recommend a small tri-pod for long distance shots when zooming. This will keep the camera steady and it is less likely that the image will distort.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
I'm very happy with my purchase of this camera. The digital zoom is much better than my last camera, and it is small and compact and takes excellent pictures.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Red):
loving the compact design and the sharp clear pix... the zoom is better than most... close up feature offers amazing detail
for the compact instant camera at this price it's great. The option to NOT use the autofocus is a super feature
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Canon Elph Keeps Getting Better!
I love the Canon Elph line of point and shoot cameras, and have owned just about all the versions leading up to the 520 HS. I travel frequently, and I do not like to...Read complete review
I love the Canon Elph line of point and shoot cameras, and have owned just about all the versions leading up to the 520 HS. I travel frequently, and I do not like to carry my Rebel T3i on our trips. Instead, I pack the latest Canon Elph with extra batteries, and am always pleased with the pictures. Family and friends that view them cannot believe they are captured on such a small camera.! So, why buy the newest Elph? Quite simply - the 12x optical zoom. This increases the reach by 2.4 times over the Elph 300 HS. Size? It is exactly the size (and feel) of the Elph SD1000 (the boxey silver camera with the "black eye".) Image stablization, face recognition, and HD video capabilities are all great. And, of course, pictures continue to be excellent! What I did not like was the change in battery size (uses NB-9L versus the NB-4L), and the change in memory card (uses a microSD versus the standard SD card). I continue to be impressed by Canon's constant improvements to the world's best pocketable cameras!
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Dissappointing Noise at full size
Bought it... returned it within **one day**. I could not recommend it to anyone who likes decent full size pics (at actual resolution). The noise is apparent at almost *...Read complete review
Bought it... returned it within **one day**. I could not recommend it to anyone who likes decent full size pics (at actual resolution). The noise is apparent at almost **all** ISO levels! For the money, I would have expected at least a little better quality. I would highly recommend instead, the Canon S100 if you want quality shots with a fair zoom (only 5x)... or the significantly cheaper SX260 which has a better lense with slightly better quality and terrific zoom.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 23 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
i was looking for such camera from long time. it is aesthetic, simple and easy in use. 12x zoom is wonderful for such small camera. display is clear and bright - no problems to see in a bright light. i bought it for my wife for shooting birds on our backyard - zoom and image quality were the main factors, size and easy of use - the second. for now i can say - it fulfill our requirements perfectly.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
its great in diff light. also gud for takin pics of my baby who moves a lot!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
excelent!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Silver):
I love this compact camera. the quality of pics and clarity is amazing. Especially the fantastic zoom which allows me to take great close-ups.
The battery seem to run out faster then other cameras I had, so I do recommend to get 2, so there is always one charged ready to be replaced...
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
I bought the Camera for 60 years old mother. She needs a Camera which is easy to use and good to work with.
You will found all of that in the Canon Powershot.
The pictures are great and i love the colours of Canon cameras.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Red):
Small, easy to use camera. Good zoom.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
I wanted a camera that could fit in my shirt or jacket pocket and was easy to use on the go. I use it to take pictures of my kids playing soccer as well as when hiking and fishing. It is easy to use and doesn't have too many buttons. The zoom is much better than my previous cheaper camera. The HD movies are also very clear. Very pleased, would highly recommend spending the extra money for the higher quality.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
it is very simple to use
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
Using family photos and hiking
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
I've had an old reliable Canon Elph for a while, but the lense finally wouldn't retract anymore. While I've "been away" - the Canon's have gotten faster, sharper, better at video, better with image stablization, etc. And I love the winning B&H service in helping to pick out the right camera. Lastly, the price is right (and if you factor in the peace of mind that you really picked the best choice of ALL available - it's a no brainer !). Ya' gotta go to B&H !!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
The first thing that catches the eye is the shiny color & box-like shape. I have been buying Canon cameras for many years, and like them. The camera is easy to use and takes good, sharp photos. It's a bit tricky to delete a photo, but that's not always a bad thing (once you do it a couple of times, it's no big deal). I have had it for about a month now with no problems.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
I bought this camera before I went on a trip to Europe with my husband and I also bought it because my old camera wasn't taking good video clips. We took the most beautiful pictures during our trip and we continue taking amazing pictures of our two children. It's a very good camera for indoor and outdoor picture taking. I also took a video clip without realizing and I agree that the button is located in a place that can be touched by chance. Another downside about this camera is that the pictures taken with the zoom used at its max are a little grainy but that doesn't bother me. Who wants "perfect" looking pictures nowadays? Overall, I'm very, very happy with the camera. What I like the most about the camera is the quality of the pictures/video and that it's very compact.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
Bought it... returned it within **one day**. I could not recommend it to anyone who likes decent full size pics (at actual resolution). The noise is apparent at almost **all** ISO levels! For the money, I would have expected at least a little better quality. I would highly recommend instead, the Canon S100 if you want quality shots with a fair zoom (only 5x)... or the significantly cheaper SX260 which has a better lense with slightly better quality and terrific zoom.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
A good little camera. Very portable. Nice pictures. Expensive for the camera of its type but if you can afford it, go for it
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
I am happy with the Cannon Elph 520 that I recently purchased. I have used it to photograph people, mountain scenes, spring wildflowers, and birds with results very adequate for me. The only thing that I find unusual is that I've taken two videos that I didn't know about until I downloaded photos. The button appears to be in a location that gets hit easily by mistake.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Black):
I really like this camera!
It is so easy to carry with you, the picture quality is good, and there are some cool features. I have only tried a few of the shooting modes, and I liked them.
I could definitely recommend this camera to anyone looking for a small point&shoot camera.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Silver):
Very small and slim with a powerful zoom and good low light capabilities.
You can zoom while shooting video.
Get a protective case because the integrated lens cover looks very delicate.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Silver):
This small but powerful camera is extremely versatile and rather easy to use. I would recommend a small tri-pod for long distance shots when zooming. This will keep the camera steady and it is less likely that the image will distort.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Blue):
I'm very happy with my purchase of this camera. The digital zoom is much better than my last camera, and it is small and compact and takes excellent pictures.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera (Red):
loving the compact design and the sharp clear pix... the zoom is better than most... close up feature offers amazing detail
for the compact instant camera at this price it's great. The option to NOT use the autofocus is a super feature