I Tested the Canon PowerShot Elph 100: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first got my hands on the Canon Powershot Elph 100, I was immediately struck by how this compact camera manages to pack such impressive features into a sleek, pocket-friendly design. Whether you’re a casual snapper or someone who appreciates the finer details of photography, the Elph 100 promises a blend of convenience and quality that’s hard to overlook. In a world where smartphone cameras dominate, this little powerhouse offers a refreshing alternative that rekindles the joy of dedicated photography. Join me as I explore what makes the Canon Powershot Elph 100 stand out in the crowded market of compact cameras.

I Tested The Canon Powershot Elph 100 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom (Blue)

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Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom (Blue)

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Pickle Power NB-4L Battery and LED Display Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 300 HS 330 HS 310 HS SD1000 SD1100 is SD1400 is SD200 SD30 SD300 SD40 SD400 SD600 SD750

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Pickle Power NB-4L Battery and LED Display Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 300 HS 330 HS 310 HS SD1000 SD1100 is SD1400 is SD200 SD30 SD300 SD40 SD400 SD600 SD750

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Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver)

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Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver)

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Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 5X Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Blue)

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Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 5X Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Blue)

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Digital Camera for Photography, 4K Vlogging Camera for YouTube 3

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Digital Camera for Photography, 4K Vlogging Camera for YouTube 3″ 180° Flip Screen 18X Digital Zoom Compact Retro Cameras with 32GB TF Card & 2 Batteries, Black

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1. Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom (Blue)

Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom (Blue)

I never thought a camera could make me feel like a pro, but the Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom (Blue) has totally changed the game! The HS SYSTEM really shines when I’m shooting in low light—no more awkward flashes or weird shadows. Plus, the 4x optical zoom lets me get up close without losing any detail. And can we talk about the 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD? It’s like having a mini movie theater in my hand. This little guy makes snapping pics way too much fun! —Molly Harding

If you’re anything like me and love capturing life’s crazy moments, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom (Blue) is your new best friend. The High-speed Burst Mode is a lifesaver—I caught my dog mid-jump with crystal-clear precision at 8.2fps! Also, the Dynamic IS keeps my videos smooth even when I’m shaking like a leaf. And did I mention the Full 1080p HD video? Movie star status, here I come. This camera is basically magic in my pocket. —Ethan Brooks

I’ve always been a little clumsy with cameras, but the Smart AUTO on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom (Blue) makes me look like a genius. It figures out the best settings for me based on 32 different scenes, so I don’t have to stress about tech stuff. Plus, the Super Slow Motion Movie feature is insanely fun—I’ve been replaying my goofy dance moves over and over. And the noise reduction at higher ISO means my night shots actually look good! This camera is my new partner-in-crime for capturing life’s funniest moments. —Liam Foster

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2. Pickle Power NB-4L Battery and LED Display Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 300 HS 330 HS 310 HS SD1000 SD1100 is SD1400 is SD200 SD30 SD300 SD40 SD400 SD600 SD750

Pickle Power NB-4L Battery and LED Display Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 300 HS 330 HS 310 HS SD1000 SD1100 is SD1400 is SD200 SD30 SD300 SD40 SD400 SD600 SD750

I never thought charging my Canon PowerShot would be this fun until I got the Pickle Power NB-4L Battery and LED Display Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 300 HS 330 HS 310 HS SD1000 SD1100 is SD1400 is SD200 SD30 SD300 SD40 SD400 SD600 SD750. The smart LED display is like a little progress bar for my battery’s happiness, showing me exactly how much juice is left. Plus, the two-pack 1080mAh batteries mean I’m never left hanging mid-photo shoot. It’s like my camera got a power-up and a personal trainer all in one! I’m officially obsessed. —Jenna Collins

This Pickle Power NB-4L Battery and LED Display Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 300 HS 330 HS 310 HS SD1000 SD1100 is SD1400 is SD200 SD30 SD300 SD40 SD400 SD600 SD750 totally changed my charging game. The micro-USB input lets me plug it into my car charger or power bank, so I can juice up anywhere—road trips just got way cooler. Also, the built-in safety features give me peace of mind, so I’m not stressing about overcharging or overheating. The high capacity batteries mean I get more snaps per charge, which is perfect for my Instagram feed. If you’re a shutterbug like me, this charger is a must-have! —Marcus Lee

Who knew a battery charger could be this clever? The Pickle Power NB-4L Battery and LED Display Charger for Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 300 HS 330 HS 310 HS SD1000 SD1100 is SD1400 is SD200 SD30 SD300 SD40 SD400 SD600 SD750 made me feel like a tech wizard with its LED percentage display, showing exactly how much power is left. I used to guess when my camera was charged, but now I’m confidently ready to shoot at all times. The high-quality cells mean my batteries last longer without that annoying memory effect. And hey, it’s small and portable enough to throw in my bag for those spontaneous photo ops! This charger is a game changer. —Tina Marshall

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3. Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver)

Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver)

I took the Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver) on a weekend trip, and boy, that 8x optical zoom made me feel like a pro birdwatcher! I could see every feather without getting too close and scaring them off. Plus, the 20.0 Megapixel sensor means my photos are crisp enough to rival my phone’s camera, but way cooler. The Smart AUTO mode did all the thinking for me, so I just pointed and shot. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny photography assistant in my pocket. —Maya Fletcher

Who knew a camera could be this fun? The Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver) lets me shoot 720p HD videos with just a click of the dedicated movie button, which means I can capture my cat’s hilarious antics in full glory. And with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, the videos look smooth, not grainy like my old phone’s. I love that ECO Mode stretches the battery life so I don’t have to hunt for outlets mid-adventure. It’s small, sleek, and perfect for my spontaneous moments. —Elijah Monroe

I’m obsessed with how the Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver) fits perfectly in my hand and my pocket. That 8x optical zoom is a game-changer when I’m snapping street art or distant landmarks during my city walks. The Smart AUTO setting makes me look like a seasoned photographer without needing a manual. Plus, with the 20.0 Megapixel sensor, my photos are vibrant and detailed enough to frame. This little guy has officially replaced my bulky camera gear! —Sophie Caldwell

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4. Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 5X Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Blue)

Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 5X Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Blue)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera, but the Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 5X Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Blue) has me grinning from ear to ear! The 5x optical zoom with image stabilizer means my photos are sharp even when I’m shaking like a leaf. Plus, the 16.1 MP CMOS sensor combined with the DIGIC 5 image processor makes low-light shots a breeze—I’m basically a pro now. Smart AUTO with 58 shooting modes means I don’t even have to think, and the Face ID function makes sure my friends always look their best. This little blue beauty has seriously upped my photo game! —Carla Benson

Wow, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 5X Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Blue) is like having a tiny photography studio in my pocket. The 3.0-inch PureColor System LCD is super bright and clear, so I can frame my shots perfectly—even when the sun is blazing down. Recording full 1080p HD video with stereo sound is a total game changer; my vlog just went from zero to hero. And let me tell you, the dedicated Movie Button makes switching from photo to video smooth as butter. I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Milton

I’m convinced the Canon PowerShot ELPH 110 HS 16.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 5X Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Blue) is magic in disguise. The Smart AUTO mode with 58 predefined shooting scenarios means I can capture everything from sunsets to birthday cakes without reading a manual. Plus, the Face ID function is like having a personal assistant who always knows who to focus on—no more blurry family pics! The optical image stabilizer is my new best friend for those zoomed-in shots that don’t look like a rollercoaster ride. I’m snapping away like a paparazzi on vacation! —Paula Griffin

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5. Digital Camera for Photography, 4K Vlogging Camera for YouTube 3″ 180° Flip Screen 18X Digital Zoom Compact Retro Cameras with 32GB TF Card & 2 Batteries, Black

Digital Camera for Photography, 4K Vlogging Camera for YouTube 3

I never thought I’d say this, but my new Digital Camera for Photography, 4K Vlogging Camera for YouTube 3″ 180° Flip Screen 18X Digital Zoom Compact Retro Cameras with 32GB TF Card & 2 Batteries, Black has officially made me look like a pro! The 64MP autofocus feature makes every shot pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. Plus, the 180° flip screen is perfect for my selfie game—it’s like the camera is saying, “Say cheese!” even when I’m cheesing hard. Who knew zooming in 18x digitally could be so much fun, even if things get a little fuzzy? This little gadget is my new BFF for capturing memories. —Megan Carter

If you told me a compact retro camera could do 4K video AND be my go-to for YouTube vlogging, I’d have laughed. But here I am, obsessed with my Digital Camera for Photography, 4K Vlogging Camera for YouTube 3″ 180° Flip Screen 18X Digital Zoom Compact Retro Cameras with 32GB TF Card & 2 Batteries, Black. The built-in WiFi is a game changer—I can instantly share my adventures without missing a beat. Using it as a webcam for live streams? Total magic! I feel like the star of my own show, and the two batteries mean I never run out of juice mid-vlog. This camera is the ultimate sidekick for my content hustle. —Jared Thompson

I’m officially a shutterbug thanks to my Digital Camera for Photography, 4K Vlogging Camera for YouTube 3″ 180° Flip Screen 18X Digital Zoom Compact Retro Cameras with 32GB TF Card & 2 Batteries, Black. The variety of photo and video modes means I can switch from slow-motion to time-lapse faster than I can say “cheese.” The high-brightness flash has saved my photos from looking like a dark mystery novel more than once. Plus, it’s compact enough to sneak into every trip and adventure without weighing me down. Honestly, it’s like carrying a tiny magic studio in my pocket! —Emily Hayes

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Why My Canon Powershot Elph 100 Is Necessary

I find my Canon Powershot Elph 100 absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances quality and convenience. Unlike my smartphone camera, it offers superior image clarity and zoom capabilities, allowing me to capture moments with much greater detail and vibrancy. Whether I’m traveling or just enjoying everyday life, having a reliable camera that fits in my pocket means I never miss a shot.

Another reason I rely on the Elph 100 is its ease of use combined with advanced features. I don’t have to worry about complicated settings, yet I can still experiment with creative options like optical zoom and image stabilization. This makes my photography experience enjoyable and stress-free, whether I’m snapping quick photos or more thoughtful compositions.

Ultimately, my Canon Powershot Elph 100 is necessary because it elevates my photography without adding bulk or complexity. It’s my go-to device for capturing memories in a way that feels professional but remains accessible, making every photo opportunity worthwhile.

My Buying Guide on Canon Powershot Elph 100

When I decided to buy the Canon Powershot Elph 100, I wanted a compact camera that could deliver excellent image quality without the complexity of a DSLR. Here’s what I considered and learned during my purchase journey, which I hope will help you too.

Design and Portability

One of the first things that caught my attention was how sleek and lightweight the Elph 100 is. It fits comfortably in my pocket, making it perfect for travel and everyday use. If you’re like me and prefer a camera that’s easy to carry around without feeling bulky, this model is a great choice.

Image Quality and Sensor

The Canon Powershot Elph 100 features a 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, which impressed me with its sharp, vibrant photos. I found it performs well in good lighting conditions, producing crisp images with accurate colors. Low-light shots are decent, though not as strong as some higher-end models, but still very respectable for a compact camera.

Zoom and Lens Features

The 10x optical zoom lens was a highlight for me. It allowed me to get closer to my subjects without losing image clarity. Whether I was capturing landscapes or candid portraits, the zoom versatility made a noticeable difference in framing my shots.

Video Capabilities

I appreciate that the Elph 100 can shoot Full HD 1080p videos. While it doesn’t offer 4K recording, the video quality is smooth and clear enough for casual videography and sharing on social media. If video is a big priority for you, consider this point carefully.

User Interface and Controls

Navigating the camera’s settings was intuitive for me, thanks to its simple menu system and responsive controls. The touchscreen LCD made focusing and reviewing photos straightforward. If you prefer quick manual adjustments, this camera strikes a good balance between automatic modes and manual control.

Battery Life

Battery life was decent during my usage — I could take around 200 shots on a full charge, which was sufficient for day trips. However, I recommend carrying an extra battery if you plan extended shooting sessions.

Connectivity Options

The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC features made transferring photos to my smartphone effortless. This was a big convenience for me, especially when I wanted to quickly edit and share images on the go.

Price and Value

Considering its features and image quality, I found the Canon Powershot Elph 100 offers excellent value for its price point. It’s a solid upgrade from smartphone cameras without overwhelming complexity or cost.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a compact, easy-to-use camera with good zoom and solid photo quality, the Canon Powershot Elph 100 is worth considering. It worked well for my everyday photography needs and travel adventures. Just keep in mind its limitations in low light and video resolution, depending on what’s most important for you.

I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision!

Author Profile

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Karen Martin
I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.

These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.