6 Best Canon Powershot Elphs 2026 in the United States

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is a compact and lightweight camera weighing just over 5 ounces, making it easy to carry around for casual photography or travel. Its 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers sharp images with good detail, suitable for everyday photos and family moments. The 12x optical zoom combined with optical image stabilization helps capture distant subjects clearly while reducing blur from shaky hands, which is great for outdoor or action shots. It records Full HD 1080p videos, offering decent video quality for sharing memories. The 3-inch LCD screen is large enough for easy framing and reviewing your shots, although it’s a fixed screen without touch features. Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC enable simple wireless sharing of photos and videos, which is handy for social media or quick transfers to your phone. Battery life is typical for a compact camera, and it comes with a rechargeable battery and charger included.

However, the zoom won’t work during video recording, and fast-moving subjects may appear distorted in videos, so it’s not ideal for capturing very quick action. It also lacks a viewfinder and advanced manual controls, making it best suited for beginners or those who prefer automatic settings. The ELPH 360 offers a balance of good image quality and ease of use in a small design, making it a solid choice if you want a simple, portable camera that connects easily to your devices.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a versatile point-and-shoot camera that is particularly appealing to casual photographers and travel enthusiasts. With a powerful 40x optical zoom, you can capture distant subjects clearly, making it great for wildlife or landscape photography. The 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor paired with the DIGIC 8 image processor helps deliver quality images across a range of conditions. Its optical image stabilization effectively reduces blur, which is a notable strength for capturing sharp photos and smooth videos, especially in less-than-ideal lighting situations.

This camera is capable of recording in 4K video, which is a significant advantage for users wanting to create high-quality content. The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy sharing of photos and videos to your devices, enhancing the user experience for those who enjoy posting on social media.

There are a few limitations to consider. The lack of a traditional viewfinder might deter some users who prefer that feature for composing shots. While the 3.0-inch tilt-type LCD is a great addition for selfies, its relatively small size compared to larger cameras can make framing shots a bit tricky. The battery life, while decent, may not last through a full day of extensive use, so it is wise to carry a spare, especially during long outings. Additionally, while the camera's video capabilities include 4K recording, the maximum recording time is limited to 30 minutes, which could be restrictive for longer shoots. The camera's lightweight design (0.61 pounds) is excellent for portability, but it may feel less robust compared to heavier models.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS serves as a solid choice for those seeking a compact and powerful point-and-shoot camera, with some trade-offs in viewfinder presence and battery life that potential buyers should keep in mind.

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 is a compact and lightweight camera ideal for travelers and casual photographers who want something easy to carry and simple to use. It features a 20-megapixel sensor that captures detailed photos, and a 10x optical zoom with image stabilization helps achieve clear shots even when zoomed in. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing pictures straightforward, allowing quick uploads or transfers without cables.

Video recording is available in 720p HD, suitable for casual clips but not for higher-resolution videos. Battery life supports a day of shooting comfortably, and the compact size fits easily in a pocket or bag. The camera also offers several creative filter modes like fisheye and monochrome for fun photo effects.

The sensor type (CCD) and video quality are basic compared to newer cameras, and the LCD screen resolution is low, which might affect how clearly pictures can be reviewed on the spot. It does not include advanced features such as 4K video or fast continuous shooting, making it less suitable for professionals or those needing high-speed performance. This Canon model is well-suited for users seeking a straightforward, affordable point-and-shoot with good zoom and wireless sharing, especially for everyday snapshots and travel memories.