Key Features
Jan 09 2012
Announced
10 megapixels
Resolution
Brand | Canon |
Sensor Type | 1/2.3-inch |
Sensor | BSI-CMOS |
Weight | 155g |
MSRP | $299USD |
Other similar cameras

Canon ELPH 510 HS
Released Mar 01 2012 | 12MP resolution

Canon ELPH 500 HS
Released Feb 07 2011 | 12MP resolution

Canon ELPH 100 HS
Released Feb 07 2011 | 12MP resolution
Overview of the ELPH 520 HS
The Canon ELPH 520 HS is a feature-packed camera that offers both impressive performance and exceptional image quality. Whether you're looking to take stunning photos or record high-definition videos, this camera can deliver the goods. With 10.1-megapixel resolution and a 12x optical zoom, you can capture images with remarkable clarity and detail. But that's only the beginning. This camera also features a 3-inch LCD screen that makes it easy to preview your shots, as well as an optical image stabilizer that helps you capture clear, steady photos and videos even in low-light conditions. Plus, with Full HD video recording, you can shoot high-quality videos that are perfect for online sharing. So, whether you're new to photography or a seasoned pro, the Canon ELPH 520 HS is a camera that you'll want to consider. With its powerful features and impressive performance, it's the perfect tool for capturing stunning photos and videos that you'll treasure for years to come.
Canon ELPH 520 HS Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Canon ELPH 520 HS camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Canon ELPH 520 HS
Weather sealed | |
Dimensions | 87 x 54 x 19mm |
Weight | 155g |
Thickness | 19mm |
Weather Sealing
The Canon ELPH 520 HS is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.
Design and Handling
Main design features
View Finder | None |
Screen Type | Fixed Type |
Screen Resolution | 461k dots |
Body type | Ultracompact |
Suitable for:
Photography | Above Avg. |
Videography | Above Avg. |
Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 461k dots. This makes the Canon ELPH 520 HS not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.
Viewfinder
Canon ELPH 520 HS does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the ELPH 520 HS camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Canon ELPH 520 HS has a 10MP sized BSI-CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 10 pixels. Canon ELPH 520 HS has a native ISO range of 100 - 3200 which can be boosted to null - null.
Key Features
Jan 09 2012
Announced
100 - 3200
ISO Range
Sensor | 1/2.3-inch |
Extended ISO | null - null |
Max resolution | 3648 x 2736 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
not tested
Color Depth
not tested
Dynamic Range
not tested
Low Light ISO
not tested
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Canon ELPH 520 HS camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the ELPH 520 HS is excellent
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: 1/2.3-inch
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
Storage | microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC |
Battery Life | 190 shots |
Battery Model | NB-9L |
HDMI | |
USD | |
Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Canon ELPH 520 HS supports microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.
Battery
The Canon ELPH 520 HS uses the NB-9L model of battery pack. This is rated for 190 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Canon ELPH 520 HS has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.
Shutter
The Canon ELPH 520 HS boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Canon ELPH 520 HS includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 9 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Canon ELPH 520 HS features a BSI-CMOS sensor
No the ELPH 520 HS does not have weather sealing.
The Canon ELPH 520 HS was announced on Jan 09 2012
Yes the ELPH 520 HS does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The ELPH 520 HS has a native ISO range of 100-3200, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.
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