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Canon 520 HS Point & Shoot Camera

The Canon 520 HS is a 10MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with Full HD (1080p) video. Used copies start from $239 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Canon 520 HS Point & Shoot Camera

Canon 520 HS Point & Shoot Camera

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Camera OverviewCanon 520 HS

The Canon 520 HS is a compact point-and-shoot camera built around a 10MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor powered by Canon's DIGIC 5 image processor. It covers an ISO range of 100 to 3200, giving users flexibility across a range of lighting conditions. The camera features a 3.0-inch fixed LCD display with a resolution of 461,000 dots, providing a clear view for composing shots and reviewing images.

Autofocus is handled by a contrast detection system with 9 focus points, keeping the experience straightforward for everyday shooting. Burst shooting is supported at up to 6.8 frames per second, making it capable of capturing fast-moving subjects. Image stabilization is provided optically (OIS), with digital IS also available.

Video recording supports frame rates of 24fps and 30fps at 8-bit color depth, with a range of color profiles including Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, and Custom available for stills. The body is constructed from a metal and plastic composite, measures 87 x 54 x 19 mm, and weighs just 155g — a genuinely pocketable package. Storage is handled via microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC cards, and connectivity includes USB and Micro HDMI output.

The NB-9L battery is rated for approximately 190 shots per charge.

Key FeaturesCanon 520 HS

10MP 1/2.3-Inch Sensor: Paired with Canon's DIGIC 5 processor, this sensor delivers reliable image quality for everyday point-and-shoot use.

Optical Image Stabilization: Built-in OIS reduces the effect of camera shake during handheld shooting, particularly useful in lower light.

6.8fps Burst Shooting: Captures fast-moving subjects at up to 6.8 frames per second, giving you a better chance of getting the decisive moment.

3.0-Inch Fixed LCD: A 461,000-dot display provides a clear view for composing shots and reviewing images in the field.

Pocketable 155g Body: At 87 x 54 x 19 mm and 155g, the metal and plastic composite body fits easily in a pocket or small bag.

ISO 100–3200 Range: Covers a broad enough sensitivity range to handle both bright outdoor and low-light indoor shooting.

Camera SpecificationsCanon 520 HS

Canon 520 HS full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel
TypePoint and Shoot
Sensor1/2.3 inch
Resolution10MP
ProcessorDIGIC 5
ISO Range100 – 3200
AF SystemContrast Detection
AF Points9 points
Burst Rate6.8 fps
Max Video ResolutionFull HD (1080p)
Max Frame Rate30fps
Bit Depth8-bit

DescriptionCanon 520 HS

The Canon 520 HS is a slim, pocketable point-and-shoot built for everyday convenience. At the core is a 10MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor driven by a DIGIC 5 image processor, covering an ISO range of 100 to 3200. Shooting is composed on a 3.0-inch fixed LCD with 461,000 dots of resolution, while the contrast detection autofocus system draws on 9 focus points for subject acquisition. Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) helps keep handheld shots sharp, and a burst mode of up to 6.8 fps lets you capture fast action.

For video, the camera records at up to 30fps in 8-bit color depth across a range of color profiles. The body is made from a metal and plastic composite, measures 87 x 54 x 19 mm, and weighs just 155g. Storage uses microSD, microSDHC, or microSDXC cards, and the camera connects via USB or Micro HDMI for playback.

The NB-9L battery provides approximately 190 shots per charge.

ProsCanon 520 HS

  • DIGIC 5 image processor paired with a 1/2.3-inch, 10MP sensor for reliable everyday image quality
  • Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce camera shake during handheld shooting
  • Burst shooting at up to 6.8 fps is useful for capturing action

ConsCanon 520 HS

  • No weather sealing, limiting use in rain or dusty environments
  • Battery life is rated at approximately 190 shots per charge, which is modest for extended outings
  • No viewfinder — shooting is limited to the fixed LCD display

VideosCanon 520 HS

Canon Powershot SX520 HS Unboxing & Full Review: In-depth Hands on Hardware, Image & Video qualityPallab Hazarika

Resources & DownloadsCanon 520 HS

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked QuestionsCanon 520 HS

What memory cards does the Canon 520 HS accept?+
The Canon 520 HS is compatible with microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards. This gives users flexibility in storage capacity depending on their needs.
Does the Canon 520 HS have image stabilization?+
Yes, it features Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) as well as digital IS. OIS works to physically counteract camera shake during handheld shooting.
Can the Canon 520 HS connect to a TV or monitor?+
Yes, the camera includes a Micro HDMI output, allowing you to connect it to a compatible TV or monitor for image and video playback. USB connectivity is also available for data transfer.
What video frame rates does the Canon 520 HS support?+
The camera supports video recording at 24fps and 30fps with 8-bit color depth. Multiple color profiles — Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Sepia, and Black & White — are available for video.
Does the Canon 520 HS have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?+
No, the Canon 520 HS does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Transferring images requires a physical USB connection or removing the microSD card.
What is the ISO range of the Canon 520 HS?+
The Canon 520 HS has an ISO range of 100 to 3200, processed through Canon's DIGIC 5 engine. This range covers standard daylight shooting through moderately low-light conditions.

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