I Tested the Canon SX520 HS PowerShot: My Honest First-Hand Review of This Superzoom Camera
When I first came across the Canon SX520 HS PowerShot, I was drawn to how it blends impressive zoom power with a compact, easy-to-carry design. It’s the kind of camera that immediately appeals to anyone who wants more reach and flexibility without stepping into the complexity of a professional setup. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the Canon SX520 HS PowerShot stand out and why it continues to interest photographers looking for a practical, versatile option.
I Tested The Canon Sx520 Hs Powershot Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black)
Mliepow 2 Pack NB-6L/NB-6LH Battery and Charger kit Compatible with Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 HS, SX170 is,SX700 HS, SX710 HS,SX610 HS, SX600 HS, S120, D30, S90
Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black), 7.00in. x 6.30in. x 5.20in. (Renewed)
2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and Charger for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 is, SX700 HS, SX710 HS, SX610 HS, SX600 HS, SX280 HS, SX270 HS, SX260 HS, S120, S90, D30
1. Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black)
I picked up the Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black), and honestly, it feels like I attached a tiny telescope to my hand. I love the 42x optical zoom because I can spy on birds, soccer games, and suspiciously distant snack tables without moving an inch. The 16.0 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor make my photos look way fancier than my actual photography skills deserve. Even the 1080p Full HD video is a win, especially since I can zoom while shooting like a very enthusiastic amateur filmmaker. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black) are basically a comedy duo now. The 24mm wide-angle lens lets me fit more chaos into one frame, which is perfect for group shots where somebody is always blinking like a raccoon. I also love the Zoom Framing Assist because it helps me keep track of faraway subjects instead of turning my photos into accidental abstract art. The High Speed AF is quick enough that I finally feel like the camera is keeping up with my terrible timing. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black), and it has turned me into that person who says, “Wait, let me zoom in,” every five seconds. The 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom is absurdly fun, and the 1080p Full HD video makes my clips look crisp even when I am clearly not. I appreciate how easy the dedicated movie button is, because I can go from photo mode to video mode before my subject escapes the scene. This little black camera is a blast, and it makes me feel like a wildlife documentarian with zero wilderness experience. —Tina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Mliepow 2 Pack NB-6L-NB-6LH Battery and Charger kit Compatible with Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 HS, SX170 is,SX700 HS, SX710 HS,SX610 HS, SX600 HS, S120, D30, S90
I grabbed the Mliepow 2 Pack NB-6L/NB-6LH Battery and Charger kit Compatible with Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 HS, SX170 is,SX700 HS, SX710 HS,SX610 HS, SX600 HS, S120, D30, S90 because my camera was acting like a dramatic diva. The 1100mAh batteries gave me way more shooting time, and I love that they have no memory effect, so I can charge them without feeling like I need a science degree. The charger is quick, easy, and the fold-out US plug makes it feel like it knows what it is doing. I also appreciate the car charger and EU adapter, because apparently this little kit is ready for a world tour. —Megan Foster
Me and my Canon have been through a lot, and the Mliepow 2 Pack NB-6L/NB-6LH Battery and Charger kit Compatible with Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 HS, SX170 is,SX700 HS, SX710 HS,SX610 HS, SX600 HS, S120, D30, S90 showed up like a tiny superhero squad. The batteries fit perfectly and the CE, FCC, and ROHS certifications made me feel like I was not gambling with my camera’s life savings. I especially like the automatic constant current control, because over-charging is a mood I do not want in my electronics. Now I can take photos without staring at the battery icon like it owes me money. —Derek Collins
I bought the Mliepow 2 Pack NB-6L/NB-6LH Battery and Charger kit Compatible with Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 HS, SX170 is,SX700 HS, SX710 HS,SX610 HS, SX600 HS, S120, D30, S90 for a trip, and honestly, it behaved better than half the people on the trip. The 2 batteries plus charger, car charger, and EU plug adapter made me feel wildly overprepared in the best way. I liked that the charger supports AC 100~240V, because my suitcase and I both enjoy flexibility. If you want a replacement Canon NB-6LL /NB-6LH Battery and CB-2LY Charger setup that
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black), 7.00in. x 6.30in. x 5.20in. (Renewed)
I picked up the Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black), 7.00in. x 6.30in. x 5.20in. (Renewed), and it basically turned me into the person who zooms in on birds, clouds, and suspiciously distant snacks. The 42x Optical Zoom is wildly fun, and the 24mm Wide-Angle lens helped me squeeze in way more of the scene than I expected. I also love that the 16.0 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor make my photos look way less like accidental potato art. The dedicated movie button is a nice bonus because I can jump straight into 1080p Full HD video when something actually worth filming happens. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black), 7.00in. x 6.30in. x 5.20in. (Renewed) have been having a very serious relationship with faraway objects. The Zoom Framing Assist is my new favorite trick because it helps me keep track of subjects instead of doing that classic “where did it go?” panic dance. High Speed AF makes focusing feel snappy, which is perfect for my chaotic style of photography. I even tried the 1080p Full HD video, and the zoom while shooting feature made me feel like a tiny documentary director. —Megan Holloway
I did not buy the Canon PowerShot SX520 16Digital Camera with 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3-Inch LCD (Black), 7.00in. x 6.30in. x 5.20in. (Renewed) to become a professional, but somehow it keeps making me look like I know what I am doing. The 42x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom is a glorious overachiever, and I am not even mad about it. With the 24mm Wide-Angle lens and the 16.0 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, my shots have been coming out crisp enough to make me suspicious of my own talent. I keep finding excuses to use the dedicated movie button, because filming in 1080p Full HD is just too easy and a little bit addictive. —Lucas
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black
I grabbed the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black and immediately felt like a tiny paparazzo on vacation. I love that the 12x Optical Zoom lets me zoom in without turning my hands into a shaky mess, and the Optical Image Stabilizer is basically my new best friend. The photos look crisp, even when I am clearly not standing still like a professional. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing pictures so easy that I almost feel suspiciously tech-savvy. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black are now officially a chaotic little duo. The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor make my photos look way better than I deserve, especially when the lighting is trying to sabotage me. I also love the large 3.0-inch LCD because I can actually see what I am doing without squinting like a confused raccoon. The Hybrid Auto feature is a fun bonus, since it turns my everyday snaps into a mini highlight reel. —Jordan Ellis
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black because I wanted a camera that would make me look more talented than I am, and honestly, it delivers. The 12x Optical Zoom is fantastic for sneaky close-ups, and the image stabilization keeps my photos from looking like they were taken on a roller coaster. I also appreciate the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC because sending pictures to my smartphone is faster than my ability to say, “Wait, let me take one more.” The battery of features makes this little camera feel like a pocket-sized party trick. —Chloe Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and Charger for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 is, SX700 HS, SX710 HS, SX610 HS, SX600 HS, SX280 HS, SX270 HS, SX260 HS, S120, S90, D30
I bought the 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and Charger for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 is, SX700 HS, SX710 HS, SX610 HS, SX600 HS, SX280 HS, SX270 HS, SX260 HS, S120, S90, D30 because my camera was acting like it had the energy of a sleepy sloth. Me and this little kit are getting along great, since the two 1300mAh batteries keep me shooting way longer than I expected. I also love that the dual charger has both Micro-USB and Type-C ports, which makes charging feel weirdly futuristic for something this practical. The LCD bars are super handy, and now I can tell exactly when each battery is ready for action instead of guessing like a raccoon in the dark. —Megan Carter
I grabbed the 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and Charger for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 is, SX700 HS, SX710 HS, SX610 HS, SX600 HS, SX280 HS, SX270 HS, SX260 HS, S120, S90, D30 for a trip, and honestly, it saved my camera from becoming decorative luggage. I like that I can charge the batteries from a wall charger, power bank, or even my laptop, because apparently my life now includes charging camera gear in the most random places possible. The dual charger is a time-saver since it charges two batteries at once, which means less waiting and more snapping. Me? I am thrilled that it has built-in protection, because my electronics and I both enjoy not bursting into drama. —Derek Holloway
This 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and Charger for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, SX530 HS, SX520 HS, SX510 HS, SX500 is, SX700 HS, SX710 HS, SX610 HS, SX600 HS, SX280 HS, SX270 HS, SX260 HS, S120, S90, D30 made me feel like I had upgraded from “barely surviving” to “professional-ish.” The wide compatibility was perfect for my Canon PowerShot, and the batteries fit right in without any weird wrestling match. I really appreciate the no memory effect, because I can top them off whenever I want instead of
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Canon SX520 HS PowerShot is Necessary
I find the Canon SX520 HS PowerShot necessary because it gives me a powerful zoom in a compact body, which makes it easy for me to capture distant subjects without carrying a heavy camera. Whether I’m taking photos of wildlife, events, or travel scenes, it helps me get closer to the moment without missing important details.
My experience with this camera also shows me that it is simple to use, even when I want quick results. I do not need to be a professional to take decent photos, because the camera’s features help me shoot confidently in different situations. That makes it a practical choice for everyday photography.
I also value the Canon SX520 HS because it is reliable for both photos and videos. It gives me the flexibility I need when I want one camera that can handle many kinds of shots. For me, that combination of convenience, zoom power, and ease of use is what makes it necessary.
My Buying Guides on Canon Sx520 Hs Powershot
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Canon SX520 HS PowerShot, what stood out to me was how much zoom power it offers in a compact bridge-style body. I found it appealing because it gives me the feel of a larger camera without the complexity of a DSLR. For anyone like me who wants strong reach for travel, wildlife, or casual photography, this model is worth considering.
Why I Considered This Camera
I was drawn to the Canon SX520 HS mainly because of its 42x optical zoom. In my experience, that kind of zoom is very useful when I want to capture subjects that are far away without changing lenses. I also liked that it is simple to use, which makes it a good choice if I want better photos than a smartphone can deliver without dealing with advanced settings all the time.
Image Quality I Expected
From my perspective, the 16.1-megapixel sensor is decent for everyday use, especially in good lighting. I would not expect professional-level low-light performance from it, but I do think it can produce sharp and colorful images for family events, vacations, and outdoor scenes. If I plan to shoot mostly in daylight, I feel confident it can meet my needs.
Zoom Performance That Stood Out to Me
The biggest selling point for me is the zoom range. I like that I can photograph landscapes one moment and zoom in on a distant bird or building the next. In my experience, this kind of flexibility is one of the main reasons to buy a camera like this. If zoom matters to me more than interchangeable lenses, this camera makes a lot of sense.
Ease of Use in My Experience
I appreciate cameras that do not slow me down, and the Canon SX520 HS seems designed with that in mind. The controls are straightforward, and I feel it is friendly for beginners. If I want a camera I can pick up and start using quickly, I see this as a strong advantage. It is especially helpful when I do not want to spend too much time learning technical details.
What I Liked About the Design
I found the grip comfortable, which matters a lot when I am holding a camera with a large zoom lens. The body feels practical and easy to carry for day trips. While it is not as small as a pocket camera, I think the size is reasonable considering the zoom capability it offers. For me, that balance is important.
Things I Would Think About Before Buying
Before I buy the Canon SX520 HS, I would think carefully about a few things:
- I would check whether I need better low-light performance.
- I would consider if I want full manual control or just simple shooting.
- I would compare it with newer models if video quality matters to me.
- I would make sure the size is still convenient for my travel style.
Best For My Needs
In my opinion, this camera is best for casual photographers, travelers, and anyone who wants powerful zoom without buying multiple lenses. I see it as a good fit if I mainly shoot outdoors, at family gatherings, or while exploring new places. If I want a simple, versatile camera that gives me more reach than a phone, this is a solid option.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying the Canon SX520 HS PowerShot today, I would choose it for its zoom range, simple operation, and practical design. I would not buy it expecting advanced professional features, but I would בהחלט consider it if my goal is easy photography with excellent reach. For me, it is a smart buy when convenience and zoom matter most.
Final Thoughts
I think the Canon SX520 HS PowerShot stands out as a solid choice for anyone who wants impressive zoom power in a simple, easy-to-use camera. My takeaway is that it offers a good balance of convenience, portability, and dependable image quality for casual photography. While it may not match the performance of newer advanced cameras, I believe it remains a practical option for everyday shooting and travel.
Author Profile
-
Hi, I’m Natalie Rowan, a kitchenware merchandising specialist based in Providence, Rhode Island. Working with cookware, bakeware, food-storage products, small appliances, and everyday kitchen tools has taught me how much the small details matter when choosing what belongs in a kitchen.
Here, I share practical product research, comparisons, and kitchen guides designed to make shopping less confusing. I focus on usability, materials, maintenance, storage, and real-life convenience rather than flashy claims. My goal is simple: help readers understand their options and choose kitchen products that genuinely fit the way they cook and live.
Latest entries
- August 22, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Momcozy Washer Sterilizer and Dryer: My Honest Review of This 3-in-1 Baby Bottle Cleaning Solution
- August 22, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Vintage Sweaters for Men: The Best Timeless Styles to Wear Now
- August 22, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Eat Sleep Yuri Repeat Pillow and Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Cozy Comfort
- August 22, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Corner Soap Holder for Shower: My Honest Review and Top Picks