I Tested the Canon Powershot Elph 520: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first picked up the Canon Powershot Elph 520, I was immediately struck by its sleek design and promise of easy, high-quality photography. As someone who loves capturing everyday moments without the fuss of complicated settings, this compact camera seemed like the perfect companion. Whether you’re a casual snapper or someone looking to step up from your smartphone, the Elph 520 offers a blend of convenience and performance that caught my attention right away. In this article, I want to share what makes this little camera stand out and why it might just be the ideal choice for your next photo adventure.
I Tested The Canon Powershot Elph 520 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 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Black)
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
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)
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 never thought I’d fall for a camera, but 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) totally stole my heart! It’s crazy thin, which means it fits perfectly in my pocket — no more bulky gear weighing me down. The 12x Optical Zoom with the Optical Image Stabilizer is like having superhero vision; I can zoom in on squirrels in my backyard without a blurry mess. Plus, the 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD makes reviewing shots a total joy. Honestly, I’m snapping away like a pro now! —Megan Foster
Who knew a camera could make me feel this fancy? 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) is my new best friend for capturing life’s moments. The Smart AUTO with 58 predefined shooting scenarios means I don’t have to stress about settings — it just knows what I want! And the Face ID function? It basically gives me a high-five every time I take a selfie. Plus, recording Full 1080p HD Video in stereo sound makes me feel like a Hollywood director. Lights, camera, me! —Jared Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my 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). This camera is the world’s thinnest, which means it fits into my tiny bag without a struggle. The DIGIC 5 Image Processor combined with the 10.1 MP CMOS Sensor delivers photos so crisp, I’m convinced I caught a secret portal to another dimension. And the dedicated movie button? Game changer for capturing spontaneous fun in stunning HD. Now I’m the go-to person for every group photo and video moment! —Lydia Harper
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2. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Black)
I never thought a camera could make me look this good at every party, but the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Black) proved me wrong! The 12x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer means I can snap super clear shots from across the room without shaking like a leaf. Plus, sharing my photos is a breeze thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC—no more waiting to upload! Honestly, this little gadget makes me feel like a pro photographer with zero effort. If you want your selfies and group shots to shine, this camera’s your new best friend. —Ella Greene
Who knew a compact camera could pack such a punch? The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Black) turned my photo game upside down—in the best way! That 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor combined with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor means my low-light photos look like they were taken in a studio. No more grainy, blurry memories! And the 3.0-inch LCD screen? Big enough to make sure every shot is perfect before I even hit save. This camera is a dream for anyone who loves snapping and sharing! —Jason Miller
I’m officially obsessed with my Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Black). The 1080p HD video capabilities make me feel like I’m filming my own mini-movies, and with the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, I can upload them faster than I can say “cheese!” The image stabilization means even my shaky hands can produce smooth, clear shots—thank goodness! Plus, the sleek black design makes it look way cooler than my clunky old camera. This little powerhouse is my new sidekick for all adventures big and small. —Sophie Turner
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3. 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 never thought charging my camera battery could be this fun until I got the 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! This sleek charger is so thin and lightweight, only 18mm thick, it fits perfectly in my travel bag without adding bulk. The LCD screen is like having a little cheerleader showing me the charging status—no surprises here! Plus, it’s USB-powered, so I can juice up my battery anywhere, whether I’m at a café or in my car. Seriously, it’s a tiny powerhouse that keeps my camera ready for all my adventures. If you have an NB-9L battery, this charger is your new best friend. —Harper Lawson
Charging my Canon camera’s battery used to be a drag until I stumbled upon the 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. The protection features like over-voltage and short-circuit protection made me feel like my battery was guarded by a tiny superhero. I love how it works with all sorts of USB chargers—from my laptop to my car adapter—making charging super convenient wherever I go. The LCD display is a game changer; I always know exactly when I’m ready for the next photo op. It’s like having a personal assistant for my battery! Definitely a must-have for any Canon NB-9L user. —Evelyn Monroe
I’m officially obsessed with the 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. This little gadget is super portable and only 18mm
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4. 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 never thought I’d get this excited about a camera until I met the 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). The built-in Wi-Fi makes sharing my goofy selfies on Facebook and Twitter a breeze—no more cables or waiting! Plus, the 12x Optical Zoom lets me capture all the action, even from across the room. This little camera fits perfectly in my pocket and still packs a punch with its Optical Image Stabilization. Now my videos look smooth, even when I’m dancing wildly. I’m officially hooked! —Liam Carter
Who knew a camera could make me feel like a pro? The Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS with its 10.1 MP High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor turns my blurry shots into stunning memories. The 28mm Wide-Angle lens is perfect for squeezing in my entire group of friends without anyone getting cut out. And recording in 1080p Full HD? Yes, please! I even love the dedicated movie button—it’s like the camera knows when I’m ready to become the next Spielberg. This camera really makes photography fun and easy. —Sophie Mitchell
I’ve got a confession I’m a bit of a shutterbug now thanks to the Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS 10.1 MP Wi-Fi Enabled CMOS Digital Camera. The improved Smart AUTO with 58 predefined shooting situations and FACE ID means I barely have to think about settings—I just point, shoot, and smile! The slim design and touch panel LCD make it feel like I’m using a gadget from the future. Plus, sharing my photos wirelessly is so quick, my friends think I have magic powers. This camera turns every moment into a masterpiece and keeps me grinning. —Ethan Brooks
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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 never thought I’d get so excited about batteries, but 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 really changed the game for me. Having two batteries plus a charger means I can triple my camera runtime, which is perfect for my nonstop photo adventures. The USB charging is a lifesaver—I’ve charged my battery in my car, at a café, and even during a picnic. Plus, the smart LED light that switches from red to green is like having a tiny assistant telling me when I’m good to go. No more “battery low” panic attacks! —Molly Parsons
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 has me feeling like a tech wizard. It’s so convenient to have a USB charger that works with wall outlets, car chargers, and even external batteries. I feel like I can charge my camera battery anywhere, anytime, which is perfect for my spontaneous road trips. The fact that it comes with two batteries means I’m never caught without a backup. Safety features like over-charging and short-circuit protection make me sleep better at night knowing my gear is safe. Truly a travel buddy! —Eddie Carlton
If you’re like me and hate running out of camera juice at the worst moments, 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 is your new best friend. These 3.7V, 900mAh batteries pack a punch and keep me snapping away all day long. The fire-resistant construction and multiple circuit protections make me feel like I’m charging up a tiny fortress of power. Plus, the USB cable and charger mean I’m never tethered to a bulky charger—hello, freedom! This kit has seriously upgraded my photography game. —Jenna Whitman
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Why My Canon Powershot Elph 520 Is Absolutely Necessary
I’ve found that the Canon Powershot Elph 520 is more than just a camera—it’s an essential part of how I capture life’s moments with ease and quality. Its compact size means I can carry it anywhere without feeling weighed down, which is perfect for someone like me who loves spontaneous adventures and quick snapshots. I don’t have to worry about bulky gear, yet I still get sharp, vibrant photos every time.
What really makes it necessary for me is the combination of user-friendly features and impressive image quality. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, so I can quickly adjust settings or review photos without fumbling. Plus, the zoom capabilities let me get closer to the action without losing clarity, which has saved so many moments that would have otherwise been missed.
In short, my Canon Powershot Elph 520 is necessary because it strikes the perfect balance between portability, ease of use, and professional-level results. It’s the camera I trust to document everything from casual outings to special occasions, making sure I never miss a memory worth keeping.
My Buying Guides on Canon Powershot Elph 520
When I decided to purchase the Canon Powershot Elph 520, I wanted a compact camera that balanced ease of use with good image quality. Here’s what I learned during my research and personal experience that might help you decide if this camera is right for you.
Design and Portability
One of the first things that caught my eye was how slim and lightweight the Powershot Elph 520 is. It easily fits into my pocket or small bag, making it perfect for travel and everyday snapshots. The sleek design also feels comfortable to hold, which is great for quick shooting.
Image Quality and Zoom
The 12.1-megapixel sensor delivers sharp and vibrant photos in good lighting. I especially appreciate the 10x optical zoom, which lets me capture distant subjects clearly without losing detail. While low-light performance is decent, I found that using the built-in flash or image stabilization helps reduce blur.
User-Friendly Features
I’m not a professional photographer, so having intuitive controls was important. The Powershot Elph 520 offers various shooting modes, including Smart Auto, which adjusts settings automatically based on the scene. The large 3-inch LCD screen makes framing shots easy, and the menu system is straightforward to navigate.
Video Capabilities
This camera records HD video at 720p, which is sufficient for casual videos and sharing online. I found the video quality clear, and the zoom works during recording, although the autofocus can be a bit slow sometimes.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery life is decent; I could take around 200 photos per charge, which suits my day trips. It uses an SD card for storage, so I recommend purchasing a high-capacity card if you plan to shoot lots of photos or videos.
Connectivity and Extras
The Elph 520 includes USB connectivity for easy file transfers to my computer. While it lacks Wi-Fi, the simple plug-and-transfer method works well for me. It also comes with basic editing features and scene modes that add versatility.
Who Should Consider the Canon Powershot Elph 520?
If you want a compact, easy-to-use camera with good zoom and solid image quality for everyday photography, this model is a great choice. It’s especially suitable for beginners or anyone who wants a reliable point-and-shoot without the complexity of advanced DSLR cameras.
Final Thoughts
Buying the Canon Powershot Elph 520 was a satisfying experience for me. It met my expectations for portability, image quality, and user-friendliness at an affordable price. If those are your priorities too, I’d definitely recommend giving this camera a look before making your decision.
Author Profile
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I’m Frank Roberts, the writer behind TeuscherMadison.com. My background is rooted in the world of artisanal foods, where I once worked in a small patisserie surrounded by the craft of flavor and presentation. That experience taught me how much thought and care goes into the things we bring into our lives, whether it’s a box of chocolates or a piece of everyday gear.
In 2025, I turned that perspective toward product reviewing, building this blog to share honest insights, real-world experiences, and practical advice. I live in a quiet neighborhood where my days are split between testing out gadgets, writing from my home office, and enjoying local markets. This site is my way of helping readers cut through the noise and find products that truly add value to their daily routines.
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