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Canon PowerShot SX520 HS Point & Shoot Camera

The Canon PowerShot SX520 HS is a 16MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with Full HD (1080p) video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Canon PowerShot SX520 HS Point & Shoot Camera

Canon PowerShot SX520 HS Point & Shoot Camera

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Camera Overview — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

The Canon PowerShot SX520 HS is a point-and-shoot compact camera built around a 16MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor paired with Canon's DIGIC 4+ image processor. The camera offers an ISO range of 100 to 3200, giving shooters a reasonable spread of sensitivity options for varying lighting conditions. Autofocus is handled by a contrast detection system with a 9-point configuration, covering a solid range of shooting scenarios without the complexity of a dedicated AF module.

For image stability, the SX520 HS features optical image stabilization, helping to reduce the impact of camera shake during handheld shooting. The 3.0-inch LCD display resolves at 461,000 dots, providing a clear framing and review experience. Video capabilities include frame rates of 30fps and 24fps, with a Standard color profile available.

Burst shooting is supported at up to 2.4 frames per second, useful for capturing moving subjects. The body itself is constructed from plastic, weighing in at 283g and measuring 112.7 x 76.2 x 36.4mm — a genuinely pocketable form factor for travel or everyday carry. Storage is handled via SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, and the camera connects via USB.

Battery life is rated at approximately 210 shots per charge on the included Lithium-Ion pack. There is no weather sealing on this body.

Key Features — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

42x Optical Zoom Lens: Covers an exceptionally wide focal range from 24-1008mm equivalent, making it well-suited for travel, wildlife, and sports photography.

16MP 1/2.3-Inch Sensor: Captures images at 16 megapixels, providing sufficient detail for standard prints and digital sharing.

DIGIC 4+ Image Processor: Handles image processing and noise reduction, contributing to improved image quality especially at higher ISO settings.

Optical Image Stabilization: Compensates for camera shake during handheld shooting, particularly useful at the longer end of the zoom range.

ISO 100–3200 Range: Offers a reasonable sensitivity spread for adapting to different lighting conditions without an external flash.

3.0-Inch LCD Display: 461,000-dot rear screen provides a clear view for composing shots and reviewing images in the field.

Camera Specifications — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

Canon PowerShot SX520 HS full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel, Wildlife, Sports
TypePoint and Shoot
Sensor1/2.3 inch
Resolution16MP
ProcessorDIGIC 4+
ISO Range100 – 3200
AF SystemContrast Detection
AF Points9-point
Burst Rate2.4 fps
Max Video ResolutionFull HD (1080p)
Max Frame Rate30fps
Video Color ProfilesStandard

Description — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

The Canon PowerShot SX520 HS is a point-and-shoot compact camera centered on a 16MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor driven by Canon's DIGIC 4+ image processor. Sensitivity runs from ISO 100 to 3200, and the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) system works to minimize the effect of hand movement during shooting. Autofocus uses contrast detection with a 9-point layout, providing reliable subject acquisition across everyday scenarios.

On the back, a 3.0-inch LCD resolves at 461,000 dots for comfortable framing and image review. Video recording is available at 30fps and 24fps in a Standard color profile, while burst shooting tops out at 2.4fps. Three color profiles — Standard, Vivid, and Neutral — are available for stills.

The body is built from plastic, weighing 283g and measuring 112.7 x 76.2 x 36.4mm, keeping it genuinely portable. Storage is via SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, with USB connectivity for data transfer. The Lithium-Ion battery is rated at approximately 210 shots per charge.

The camera has no weather sealing, no Wi-Fi, and no Bluetooth.

Pros — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

  • ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce camera shake during handheld shooting
  • ✓16MP resolution on a 1/2.3-inch sensor processed by the DIGIC 4+ image processor
  • ✓ISO range of 100–3200 provides flexibility across lighting conditions

Cons — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

  • ✗No weather sealing, making the camera vulnerable to dust and moisture
  • ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity for wireless image transfer
  • ✗Burst shooting is limited to 2.4fps, which may struggle with fast-moving subjects

Videos — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

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

Resources & Downloads — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Canon PowerShot SX520 HS

Does the Canon PowerShot SX520 HS have image stabilization?+
Yes, the SX520 HS features Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). It also includes digital IS as an additional option. However, in-body IS is not present on this camera.
What memory cards are compatible with the SX520 HS?+
The camera accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. This covers a wide range of readily available card options at various storage capacities.
Can the SX520 HS connect wirelessly to a smartphone or computer?+
No. The SX520 HS does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. The primary connection method is via USB cable.
What video frame rates does the SX520 HS support?+
The camera supports 30fps and 24fps video recording, with a Standard color profile available for video output.
Is the Canon PowerShot SX520 HS weather sealed?+
No, the SX520 HS has no weather sealing. The body is constructed from plastic, so care should be taken in wet or dusty conditions.
What autofocus system does the SX520 HS use?+
The SX520 HS uses a contrast detection autofocus system with a 9-point configuration. There is no eye tracking or subject tracking available on this camera.

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