Review: Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera (Black) – Delivers superior photo and video quality

Review of the Canon ELPH 360 HS, a versatile camera with 12x zoom, Wi-Fi, and superb video stabilization... Read more

Specifications

Brand	Canon
Model Name	Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution	21.1 MP
Photo Sensor Size	1/2.3-inch
Image Stabilization	Optical
Max Shutter Speed	15 seconds
Min Shutter Speed	15 seconds
Metering Description	Center-Weighted Average, Evaluative, Spot
Exposure Control Type	Program
Form Factor	Compact

Introduction

Well, hello there, photography enthusiasts, shutterbugs and occasional clickers! Get ready to bring your photography skills up a notch, because here we are, dissecting the nuances of a superbly versatile point-and-shoot camera – the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS. Strap in, grab a comfy seat and let’s dive deep into what this handy gadget has to offer.

Overview of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS

From a company revered for its premium-grade cameras comes the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS, a nifty addition to their mid-range point-and-shoot lineup. It’s compact, stylish, and boasts a range of features that promise to elevate your photography moments, turning them into cherished memories.

Insights into Its Reveal at the CES 2016

Receiving quite the attention at its debut back in January 2016 at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS made waves among the attendees and critics alike, showing promising potential with its exceptional specs and sleek design. Following its high-impact revealing, it was made available to the public in late February, enthralling consumers with its high-performing features packaged in vibrant hues of black, purple and silver.

With its attractive price point of two hundred and nine dollars, the camera intrigued many, posing as an attractive option for photographers not willing to splurge grand on top-tier models but still desiring great results. So, does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.

Exploring the Major Specifications

• Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS has 12x optical zoom
• Equipped with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
• Offers 1080p HD video recording capabilities

Getting into the nitty-gritty of a product is always the exciting part for me. The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS notably found its way into our conversation peaking interests with its vast range of impressive features.

Headline Features

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS offers diverse features that grabbed my attention instantly. Here’s what you might want to know about these specifications:

• 12x Optical Zoom: The 12x optical zoom feature is among the most impressive aspects of this camera. For anyone passionate about capturing distant subjects vividly or wanting to add an artistic flair to their photos, this feature is a definite winner.
• Built-in Wi-Fi: Catching up with the times, Canon has equipped the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows for fast and seamless sharing and transfer of photos and videos to other devices.
• 1080p HD Video Recording: The 1080p HD video recording capability is another standout feature. Videos shot on this device are notably clear and detailed, making it a promising choice for videography enthusiasts.

Under the Hood

Underneath the sleek exterior, this camera packs quite the punch.

• 3-Inch LCD Display: The PowerShot ELPH 360 HS offers a large, vivid 3-inch LCD display. This provides a pleasant and clear preview of your shots, and makes navigating the camera settings pretty straightforward.
• Megapixel CMOS sensor: The high-resolution 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor is an integral part of this camera’s performance. This feature helps in capturing high-quality, detailed, and vibrant photos under various lighting conditions.

This is pretty much an overview of what the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS is rocking on the inside and out. It should be noted that each of these features contributes to the overall user experience and the camera’s performance. Whether it be the impressive zoom capabilities or the detailed CMOS sensor, each feature has a certain charm and utility to it.

Unboxing Experiences

• Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS includes lanyard and battery
• External charger provides shooting flexibility
• Box contains Canon warranty slip and user guide

I must admit, the moment of unboxing a new camera is one of anticipation and excitement. The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS certainly didn’t disappoint.

The Power In The Box

First, let me dive into some of the items included in the box. Notably, a sleek yet sturdy lanyard strap and a 800 milliamp hour battery promises valuable runtime for extended shooting periods. Not to forget the external charger , which is always a useful inclusion.

The presence of an external charger bypasses the need to charge the camera directly, providing flexibility, especially when you are on the move. However, I would have preferred a USB charger for added convenience, but that’s just a personal preference.

Navigating The Guides and Warranty Slips

Next, the box includes the necessary paperwork – a Canon warranty slip and a getting started guide . The guide was straightforward and easy to comprehend – a valuable resource for beginners. The Canon warranty slip ensures peace of mind for users, covering potential technical issues.

First Impressions: A Closer Look At the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS

Unveiling the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS, the camera felt compact and lightweight, not to mention, quite stylish. I particularly admired how the sleek design was complemented by the choice of color variants – black, purple, and silver.

The camera’s body feels solid and well-constructed, giving the impression of a device that is built to last. Now, let’s explore this product a bit further and delve into some of its headline features.

The Design 101

• Canon Powershot ELPH 360 HS has a stylish design
• Features include 1080p Full HD quality video and Wi-Fi transfer
• Design is user-friendly but lacks innovation

Let’s take a closer look at the Canon Powershot ELPH 360 HS, beginning with the design. This camera certainly has a stylish design that seems to borrow elements from some of Canon’s previously released models. But is its design aesthetic its sole strength? Let’s delve a bit deeper.

Comparing the Design with Earlier Canon PowerShot Models

The similarity in design to the Canon ELPH 180, an entry-level version of the camera, is quite noticeable. This isn’t necessarily a downside as the 180 offered a decent, user-friendly design. The ELPH 360 HS seems to have adopted this familiar look, offering the same comfort to users who have been part of the Canon family for a while. Despite the mirroring, it does maintain its unique charm and presents a plush look that leans towards the high-end side of the spectrum.

Close-up: Key Features and Specifications

Coming to the features and specifications, this point-and-shoot camera certainly does a good job highlighting its core competencies. One can’t help but be intrigued with the 1080p full HD quality video recording capability, an exceptional feature for a mid-range camera. The Wi-Fi transfer abilities take center stage as well, positioning this camera as a perfect companion for those who want to share their clicks and clips on the go. It’s equally comforting to know the ease with which one can zoom in and out, thanks to the conveniently placed toggle switch.

Overall, the camera’s design does well to put these features on full display, without overwhelming the user. The design not only makes the camera more user-friendly, it also gives off a confident and sleek vibe. However, I must mention, in terms of innovation, it doesn’t bring anything new to the table really. While it’s well-structured and neatly presented, there isn’t exactly anything groundbreaking about it.

This isn’t a shot at this sturdy little camera, but a nudge towards the general rule – design should complement functionality, but it doesn’t hurt to have a touch of novelty either.

Remember, beauty lies in the hands of the beholder, and as the beholder of this mid-range point-and-shoot, you might just find the Powershot ELPH 360 HS stylish enough for your photographic adventures.

A Tour Around the ELPH 360 HS

• ELPH 360 HS has responsive zooming and mode-selecting options
• Features large display, in-built Wi-Fi, and direct video record button
• Provides easy access to SD card and battery slots

Let’s dive in and take a detailed look around this mid-range beauty – the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS. My tour is aimed to give you a comprehensive yet concise grasp of the design and features, with a critical approach to it.

The Top

Firstly, on the top of the camera, there are few essentials. An on/off toggle switch which is sturdy and definitely gives a satisfying click sound. Also, we have the zoom-in/zoom-out toggle, which is seamlessly responsive. Equally important, a three-mode setting option is also available that comes in handy to swiftly navigate to your preferred photo modes. It’s quite user-friendly, especially if you’re in a hurry to capture a moment.

The Back

Moving on to the back, the first thing to notice is a large 3-inch display. It’s moderately sharp, and the view is pretty satisfactory. Next, on the right side, there’re several buttons tailored for your needs. The play button does exactly what you can imagine. The direct video record button is a handy addition, which, to my surprise, I found myself using quite often. Other noticeable features include a Wi-Fi transfer button and a general menu button, serving their respective functionalities.

The Sides

On the left side, this camera houses a small speaker grille; subtle yet quite poignant. Flip it over, and we get a look at some connectivity options. The top side houses a flap that reveals the HDMI and AV out, which are essential for viewing your captures on external screens.

The Bottom

Underneath, you’ll find a metal-threaded tripod mount – a sign of durability. Then there’s this little door that opens up to the SD card slot and battery slot. They are quite conveniently placed, making the change of SD card or battery hassle-free.

In conclusion, the tour around the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS presents an impression of a thoughtfully designed camera – durable yet graceful with a myriad of functional features. Next, let’s dive into the exciting part, the field test.

Testing Phase

• Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 delivers excellent photo and video quality
• Camera has effective stabilization and is suitable for vloggers
• Camera performance may vary depending on external factors

If you’re like me, you want to know what a camera can truly deliver before investing in it. Therefore, I’ve taken the liberty of testing the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS out in the field for its photo and video capabilities.

Into the Field: Photo and Video Test

I ventured outdoors armed with this camera to capture various scenes. From the serene landscapes to bustling cityscapes, the photos were vibrant and crisp. With the 12x optical zoom, I was able to bring distant objects into clear focus without any compromise on the image quality. The video quality remained equally impressive, with the 1080p HD capture rendering lifelike quality in every frame. But what really caught my attention was the camera’s video stabilization feature. Even in scenarios with inadvertent shaking or movement, the video output stayed steady and blur-free, making this camera a standout performer.

Selfie Test: Using the camera like a vlogger

In this era of selfies and vlogs, front-camera quality is crucial. I decided to test this by pointing the Canon ELPH 360 HS straight at my face. The sunlight was blaring as it was sunset, but the camera deftly adjusted to deliver a clear and color-accurate image of my face. This means, regardless of whether you’re a vlogger or a selfie-enthusiast, this camera is engineered to not disappoint.

This testing phase has reaffirmed the camera’s versatility in handling different scenarios while maintaining image and video integrity. But remember, while the tests were extensive, it is crucial to note that real-life experiences may vary given varying external factors.

Quality Check

• Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS offers impressive video stability
• 12x optical zoom exceptional for distance capturing
• Impeccable balance between quality and price

Now let’s delve deep into the heart of the matter – the actual performance and quality of this Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS.

Video Testing Result:

Before we start, I must admit, I’m pretty impressed with the video quality on offer. The footage I captured was clear, crisp, and sharply detailed. There are two features that make this camera stand out for video – the 12x optical zoom and impressive video stabilization.

Optical Zoom: The 12x optical zoom is a feature that you’d be hard pressed to find in a smartphone camera. It’s particularly powerful when capturing subjects at a distance away – you really don’t lose out on any quality.

Video Stabilization: A steady hand is always useful, but the built-in stabilization gives this camera a clear edge. It’s notably superior to the ones I experienced in some more basic PowerShot models, like the ELPH 180 for instance.

The Photo Testing Result:

Moving onto the camera’s still photography capabilities, the quality is pretty decent for its class. As with video, the optical zoom plays a pivotal role in the camera’s performance. It’s what really sets the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS apart from smartphones. The ability to capture far-off subjects clearly is a significant advantage, particularly for tourism and nature photography.

Whether it was the airplane in the sky or the ducks in the water, the zoom made it possible to capture shots that simply wouldn’t have been attainable with a smartphone. Generally speaking, for a camera in this price range, the photo quality is exactly what you’d expect – decent without being astonishing.

Just bear in mind that while the zoom is genuinely useful, don’t expect the absolute sharpest shots when maxed out. It performs admirably, but we must remember this isn’t a high-end camera.

If you’re a budding photographer or simply need the zoom, the 12x optical feature will serve you well.

In conclusion, while the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS isn’t a high-end camera, it offers solid quality backed by features that you won’t find on a smartphone camera. It strikes a balance between quality and price, which makes it an admirable contender in the mid-range camera segment.

Wrapping it UP: Menu Settings Review

• Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS offers complex menu settings
• Camera includes user-friendly built-in Wi-Fi functionality
• Features advanced capabilities like NFC and Canon Connect app

After a hands-on experience and deep dive into the camera’s functionality, it’s time to take a closer look at the menu settings of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS. This is where you’ll find a layer of complexity that might seem overwhelming for novices but rewarding for those who truly want to exploit this camera’s potential.

Wi-Fi Capabilities

One of the standout features of this camera is its built-in Wi-Fi functionality. With the capability of sending pictures directly from the camera to the printer, workflow becomes seamless and bypasses the need for a computer. It’s easy to appreciate the effort Canon has put into making this process user-friendly and as straightforward as possible.

• Direct uploads: The Canon image gateway is particularly handy, facilitating direct uploads to multiple platforms like YouTube, Flickr, Google Drive, Facebook, and Twitter with just a few clicks.
• Modern adaptability: It’s a boon for those not fond of frequently using computers. You can send pictures straight from your camera to your iOS or Android device, making this a perfect companion for smartphone users.

Advanced Features

The camera gets an edge over other point-and-shoots with its technologically advanced features. These features push the boundaries of what we can ordinarily achieve with point-and-shoot photography.

1. Near Field Communication (NFC) allows you to pair the camera with most Android devices by simply placing them in close proximity. This seamless interaction cuts out unnecessary steps and creates a more streamlined experience.
2. Canon Connect app pairs your smartphone and camera together, practically turning your phone into a shutter button. Coupled with the possibility of remote shooting, this feature offers an interesting twist to the traditional photography process.

In summary, the menu settings on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS grant access to a multitude of features that cater to a wide range of photographers. From novices who appreciate simplicity and ease of use, to experienced photographers desiring more control and depth, there’s much to explore and enjoy. The ease of navigation coupled with the wealth of options make it stand out in its price segment.

Final Thoughts

• Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS has 12x optical zoom
• Features built-in Wi-fi, NFC and video stabilization
• Lacks touchscreen capabilities and innovative design

After spending a considerable amount of time testing and reviewing the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS, here’s what I’ve gathered.

Pros and Cons: An unbiased evaluation

Pros:

• The 12x optical zoom feature is impressive. It definitely has an edge over what smartphones offer. It came in really handy when I needed to zoom in on subjects without losing on any quality.
• Its video stabilization feature is commendable. An apparent upgrade from other models, making it a definite win for those looking to capture great video quality.
• The built-in Wi-fi and NFC inclusion in this device brings in the convenience of seamless photo transfer and printing. The addition of NFC means quick pairing with another device is possible, which again is a big plus.

Cons:

• Despite the large 3-inch display, it fell short on pixel density, which didn’t give the most pleasing viewfinder experience.
• The device, although functional, doesn’t offer any distinct design upgrade from the previous models. It could use a bit more innovation on that front.
• Further, it doesn’t feature touchscreen capabilities, which might not sit well with some users who prefer convenience at their fingertips.

Who is it for? Identifying the potential user

By my assessment, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS camera seems like a splendid fit for rookie YouTubers or travel bloggers who want to capture rich photos or 1080p video budgets on a mid-range budget. Its easy-to-use interface, coupled with a range of advanced features, ensures that both beginners and the somewhat experienced photographers find it valuable.

Effective Price Analysis: Is it worth the price?

Taking into account these functionalities, for a little over $200, this point-and-shoot camera does offer you great value. In comparison to the prime features you’re getting, it absolutely warrants the cost and could be a great investment for someone looking to explore photography or videography without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

After spending a significant amount of time with the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS, here’s my unbiased and critical conclusion regarding this mid-range point-and-shoot camera.

Final Verdict

In my opinion, the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS is a commendable piece of technology. It does a great job for the price point and provides an exceptional 1080p video quality. Plus, the 12x optical zoom is a standout feature – a useful addition that’s hard to find in smartphones or similar devices.

That said, the optical zoom isn’t just a stand-alone feature, it works impressively in tandem with the commendable video stabilization, delivering crisp and steady shots. This feature definitely gives it an edge over cheaper point-and-shoot models by improving the video quality significantly.

The audio quality is decently impressive too. In my test footage, my voice sounded very clear – a surprising feat for a point-and-shoot camera. The microphone on this model is certainly more efficient than some of the other point-and-shoots I’ve used in the past.

Let’s not forget the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC features. They provide a smooth, wired-free transfer experience that’s not only user-friendly but also efficient. Plus, with the Canon Connect app, this camera elevates its functionality by allowing smartphone-assisted operations, which are quite handy.

However, like every product, there’s room for improvement. The display isn’t a touchscreen, which would have been a nice addition considering the direction technology is moving. Additionally, a bit more attention to the camera’s physical design could go a long way in setting it apart from predecessors and other similar models in the market.

Who is it for?

Considering the features and performance, I believe the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS is suitable for someone looking to venture into photography or for those vlog enthusiasts who need a compact, user-friendly, and quality camera. The advanced features on offer also make it attractive for those with a bit more experience in the photography realm.

Remember, there’s no camera that fits all, so understanding your personal needs, preferences, and budget is key to finding the perfect tool for capturing your world.

Effective Price Analysis

With a small investment of just over $200, this camera offers a great value for money. The quality and feature list you get for this price point are considerable indeed. The high-resolution videos, quality photos, and convenient transfer options, guarantee an above-average user experience. However, always remember to weigh your requirements and intended utilization against the price before deciding.

In conclusion, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS packs fairly impressive features within its compact body, delivering commendable performance. Whether it’s for you or not, that depends on your usage, preferences, and budget.

End of review.

Should you buy the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera (Black)?

Buy it if…

You Want Quality Videos and Photos

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS offers exceptional video and photo quality thanks to its 1080p HD video recording capabilities, a 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, and a 12-time optical zoom.

You Value Wi-Fi Capabilities

The camera’s built-in Wi-Fi allows a seamless transfer of photos and videos to your printers or mobile devices, upload directly to social media, or utilize the Canon Connect app for remote shooting.

You Appreciate User-Friendly Features

The camera includes user-friendly features like a large 3-inch LCD display and a simple to navigate menu, perfect for both beginners and pros.

Don’t buy it if…

You’re on a Budget

With a price tag of over $200, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS is a relatively expensive mid-range point-and-shoot camera, other options might be more affordable.

You Prefer Compact Cameras

The design of the ELPH 360 HS is similar to earlier PowerShot models and might not be compact enough if you prefer smaller and more lightweight cameras.

You Need a High Pixel Density Display

The pixel density of the camera’s display is adequate for its use but isn’t extremely high, which might be a turn-off if you need a camera with a higher resolution display.

FAQ

When and where was the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS first revealed?

The camera was first revealed in January at CES 2016.

What are the major specifications of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS?

Some of the major specifications are a 12-time optical zoom, built-in Wi-Fi, 1080p HD video recording, a large 3-inch LCD display, and a 20-point 2 megapixel CMOS sensor.

What does the box of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS include?

The box includes a lanyard strap, an 800 milliamp hour battery, an external charger, a Canon warranty slip, the getting started guide, and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS.

What is the video and picture quality of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS like?

Both the photo and video quality stand out. The camera offers a 1080p full HD video quality and the photo quality is definitely comparable to other cameras in this price range.

What extra features does Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS camera offer?

The camera offers built-in Wi-Fi and NFC that allows transferring photos directly to your printer or iOS/Android devices. It also provides a Canon Connect App for remote shooting.

What is the price of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS?

The camera is currently available for around $209.

What is the difference between Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS and Canon ELPH 180?

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS has better stabilization and higher picture quality as compared to the Canon ELPH 180.

Does the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS support advanced photography settings?

Yes, beyond the basic point-and-shoot settings, the camera includes advanced features like adjust the ISO, white balance, and many others.