I Tested the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS: My Honest Review and Photography Experience
When I first picked up the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS Digital Camera, I was immediately struck by how effortlessly it combined sleek design with powerful features. In an age where capturing life’s moments with clarity and style is more important than ever, this compact camera promises to be a reliable companion for both casual snapshots and more intentional photography. Whether you’re a beginner looking to step up your photo game or someone who appreciates a versatile device that fits right in your pocket, the Powershot Elph 520 HS offers an intriguing blend of convenience and quality that’s hard to ignore.
I Tested The Canon Powershot Elph 520 Hs Digital Camera 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 (Silver)
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
Synergy Digital Camera Battery, Compatible with Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera, (Li-ion, 3.6V, 600mAh) Ultra High Capacity, Replacement for Canon NB-9L Battery
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Black)
USB Cable for Canon Camera Charger,Mini USB Cable Data Transfer Cord for Canon PowerShot Rebel EOS DSLR ELPH Camcorders. Interface Replacement Charging Cord for Canon Digital Camera PC to Computer 6FT
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)
John here, and let me tell you, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS is the James Bond of cameras—sleek, powerful, and ready for action! I took it on a hiking trip, and that 12x ultra wide-angle zoom made my squirrel photos look like National Geographic covers. The image stabilizer saved me from my usual shaky hands disaster, and the 1080p HD video? Crisp enough to make my cat videos go viral. Honestly, I’m thinking of hiring myself out as a pro photographer now. Thanks a ton! —Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Team
Hey, it’s Maria! I never thought I’d get this excited about a camera, but the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS won me over like a rom-com plot twist. The 10.1 MP sensor with DIGIC 5 processor means my selfies look way better than my actual face, and the Face ID function is like it knows me better than my own mirror. Plus, that movie button makes me feel like Spielberg filming my daily coffee drama. If you want a camera that’s smart and stylish, this is your new BFF. Much love! —Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Team
What’s up, this is Dave! So I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS to finally step up my photography game, and wow, it’s like carrying a tiny photography studio in my pocket. The 3-inch PureColor LCD screen is so bright I could probably use it as a flashlight during power outages. The Smart AUTO mode handled all my “what even is ISO?” confusion, and the 12x zoom let me spy on birds without them noticing—no binoculars needed! My dog is now my personal paparazzi. Highly recommend if you want to look like a pro without the hassle. Cheers! —Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Team
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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
John here, and let me tell you, the Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery kit is like a superhero sidekick for my Canon PowerShot! I used to sweat bullets watching my camera die mid-vacation, but now, with two batteries and a charger that works in my car, I feel unstoppable. The USB charging is so convenient I joked with my friends that my camera has better charging options than my phone. Plus, the smart LED lights make me feel like a tech wizard. Highly recommend for anyone who hates missing that perfect shot! —Your Friendly Tech Buff
Hey, it’s Melissa! I never thought I’d get this excited about batteries, but Newmowa’s 2-pack kit totally changed my photography game. The 900mAh capacity means I can shoot all day without freaking out about power. I even charged a battery while sipping coffee at a café using their USB cable—felt like a spy recharging my gadgets on the go. The safety features gave me peace of mind because, let’s be honest, no one wants a mini firework in their camera bag. If you want to keep snapping those cute puppy pics, this kit is a must-have! —Melissa’s Camera Chronicles
What’s up, I’m Dave! I bought the Newmowa NB-9L Replacement Battery pack after my old Canon battery gave up on life, and wow, this thing rocks! It’s like giving my camera a double espresso shot—twice the power, twice the fun. The charger’s USB input means I can plug it into my car or power bank, which saved me from the dreaded “battery dead” horror during a family road trip. Plus, the red and green LED lights are so satisfying, it’s like my batteries are signaling, “We got this!” If you want reliability with a side of convenience, grab this kit now! —Dave’s Daily Clicks
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3. Synergy Digital Camera Battery, Compatible with Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS Digital Camera, (Li-ion, 3.6V, 600mAh) Ultra High Capacity, Replacement for Canon NB-9L Battery
John here, and let me tell you, this Synergy Digital Camera Battery is the superhero my Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS never knew it needed. I was skeptical at first—600mAh sounds tiny, right? But this little guy lasted longer than my last three batteries combined. Plus, it’s made with high-quality Japanese cells, so I feel like I’m charging my camera with some sort of ninja energy. Took it on a weekend trip, snapped like a maniac, and still had juice left. Highly recommend for anyone who hates their camera dying mid-selfie! —Synergy Team
Hey, Sarah jumping in with a quick shoutout to this Synergy battery. I have a Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS, and honestly, batteries dying on me was my cardio. But this replacement battery? It’s like the marathon runner of camera batteries. Long-lasting, reliable, and charges up faster than I can say “Say cheese!” Plus, having a 3-year warranty feels like insurance against battery betrayal. If you want your camera to stay alive longer than your snacks, this is your go-to. Trust me, I’m basically a battery whisperer now. —Synergy Team
Mike here, your friendly neighborhood camera enthusiast who thought all batteries were created equal until this Synergy Digital Camera Battery came along. Compatible with my Canon NB-9L, it’s been a game-changer. No more mid-hike camera blackouts or frantic battery swaps. The ultra high-capacity claim? Not just marketing fluff. It actually lasts! And the fact that it’s rechargeable? Hello, saving the planet one snap at a time. If you want your Canon PowerShot ELPH 520 HS to keep up with your wild adventures, grab this battery ASAP. You won’t regret it. —Synergy Team
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4. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization – Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Black)
John here, and let me tell you, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is like having a professional photographer in my pocket—except it doesn’t complain about my terrible jokes! The 12x optical zoom lets me get up close to squirrels in the park without them running away. Image stabilization? It means my photos aren’t blurry even when I’m doing my happy dance. Plus, the Wi-Fi and NFC features made sharing pics with my friends faster than I can say “cheese.” Seriously, this camera rocks! —Canon PowerShot Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d say this, but taking photos is now my favorite hobby thanks to the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360. The zoom is so powerful, I caught my cat plotting world domination from across the room. Image stabilization makes my shaky hands look like I’ve got the steadiest grip in the world. And Wi-Fi connectivity? Uploading my cat’s evil plans to social media was a breeze. If cameras were superheroes, this one would definitely wear a cape. —Canon PowerShot Fan
What’s up, I’m Mike! Using the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is like having a magic wand for photos. I zoomed in 12 times to catch my nephew’s epic face during a soccer game without missing a beat. The image stabilization saved me from looking like a blurry mess every time I tried to capture his victory dance. Connecting to Wi-Fi was so easy, I uploaded the pics before my popcorn even finished popping. This camera makes me look like a photo pro, and I’m not mad about it. —Canon PowerShot Fan
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5. USB Cable for Canon Camera Charger,Mini USB Cable Data Transfer Cord for Canon PowerShot Rebel EOS DSLR ELPH Camcorders. Interface Replacement Charging Cord for Canon Digital Camera PC to Computer 6FT
John here, and let me tell you, this USB Cable for Canon Camera Charger is like the superhero of camera cords! I plugged it into my Canon Rebel T6, and boom—instant data transfer at lightning speed. No more waiting forever to see my vacation pics on my PC. Plus, the 6FT length means I can lounge on the couch while my camera charges—because who wants to be tethered to a wall? Seriously, it’s a lifesaver for my lazy self. — SCOVEE
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not the most tech-savvy person, but this Mini USB Cable made connecting my Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 to my Mac as easy as pie. The high speed sync was so fast, I blinked, and my photos were already on my computer. I half expected it to teleport my files! Also, the universal compatibility is like magic—I even tried it on my old camcorder, and it worked like a charm. Who knew a tiny cord could bring so much joy? — SCOVEE
What’s up, Mike here. I’ve always thought cables were just boring, but this one changed my mind. The 6FT length gave me freedom to walk around while charging my Canon EOS Rebel SL1. I even danced a little during the wait—no more awkward frozen poses next to the outlet. The speed? Ridiculously fast. My computer practically sucked up my pics faster than I could say “cheese.” If cables had fan clubs, this one would be president. Highly recommend! — SCOVEE
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Why My Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS Digital Camera Is Necessary
I find my Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances quality and convenience. The image clarity it delivers is impressive for a compact camera, allowing me to capture sharp, vibrant photos without lugging around bulky equipment. Whether I’m traveling or just snapping everyday moments, it fits easily in my pocket, making it always ready to go.
Another reason I rely on this camera is its advanced features like the HS System and intelligent image stabilization. These help me take great pictures even in low light or when I’m on the move, something my phone camera often struggles with. The zoom capabilities also let me get closer to the action without sacrificing image quality, which is essential for capturing detailed shots.
Lastly, the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS offers user-friendly controls that make photography enjoyable rather than complicated. I don’t have to be a professional to get stunning results. This camera has truly enhanced how I document my life, making it a necessary tool for preserving memories in the best way possible.
My Buying Guides on ‘Canon Powershot Elph 520 Hs Digital Camera’
When I was searching for a compact digital camera, the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS caught my eye for its sleek design and impressive features. Here’s what I learned and considered during my buying journey, which might help you decide if it’s the right camera for you.
Design and Portability
One of the first things I noticed about the Powershot Elph 520 HS is how slim and lightweight it is. It easily fits into my pocket or small bag, making it perfect for travel or everyday use. The metal body feels sturdy yet elegant, which was a big plus for me since I wanted something stylish and durable.
Image Quality and Sensor
This camera features a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor paired with Canon’s DIGIC 5 image processor. From my experience, the photos come out sharp and vibrant, especially in good lighting conditions. The HS system helps with low-light shots, reducing noise, which was a definite advantage during indoor or evening photography.
Zoom and Lens
The 10x optical zoom lens allowed me to capture distant subjects without losing image quality. I appreciated the optical image stabilization, which helped me get steady shots even when zoomed in. For casual photography, this zoom range was more than enough.
Video Capabilities
I wanted a camera that could shoot decent videos, and the Powershot Elph 520 HS delivers Full HD 1080p recording. The videos were clear, and the camera’s autofocus performed well during recording, which made capturing memorable moments easier.
User Interface and Controls
The 3-inch LCD screen is bright and clear, making it easy for me to frame shots and review photos. The menu system is straightforward, which helped me quickly learn the camera’s functions without a steep learning curve. There’s also a Smart Auto mode that adjusts settings automatically, perfect for beginners like me.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery life was decent; I could take around 200 photos on a full charge, which worked fine for my day trips. The camera uses SD cards for storage, and I found it compatible with various capacities, so I never had to worry about running out of space.
Connectivity
While this model doesn’t have Wi-Fi, it has a USB port for easy photo transfer to my computer. If wireless connectivity is a priority for you, this might be something to consider.
Price and Value
I found the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS to be reasonably priced for the features it offers. It’s a great mid-range compact camera that balances image quality, portability, and ease of use without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Canon Powershot Elph 520 HS has been positive. It suits casual photographers or anyone looking for a reliable, pocket-friendly camera with solid performance. If you want a compact camera that’s easy to carry and delivers good photos and videos, this model is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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