Canon ELPH 100 HS vs. ELPH 300 HS: A Hands-On Comparison for Compact Camera Buyers

When stepping into the world of ultracompact cameras, Canon’s ELPH (or IXUS) series has long been a popular choice for enthusiasts and casual shooters alike. Two models that often surface in conversations, especially around the early 2010s, are the Canon ELPH 100 HS and the Canon ELPH 300 HS. Both released simultaneously in 2011, they look similar on paper but possess subtle differences that can significantly impact your photographic experience.

In this detailed comparison, we’ll unpack all the features, real-world performance, and value proposition of these two cameras. Leveraging our extensive testing and hands-on experience with thousands of digital cameras over the years, we'll guide you through each relevant use case and technical aspect. Whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into photography or a seasoned enthusiast looking for a capable pocketable travel companion, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

The Big Picture: Compact Design and Handling

Both the ELPH 100 HS and 300 HS belong to Canon’s ultracompact class - ideal for daily carry or travel. But subtle differences in size and ergonomics can influence your comfort and handling.

Size, Weight, and Ergonomics

In practical terms, both cameras fit neatly into a jacket pocket or purse. The 300 HS is technically just a millimeter shorter in length but identical in depth and width. You won’t notice any significant difference in weight either.

However, ergonomics and control placement, while minimalist on both models, lean slightly in favor of the 300 HS, which offers a marginally better top layout for quick access to shooting modes.

Top View Controls and Interface

Canon implemented a similar control philosophy here: basic dials and buttons for zoom, shutter release, and power. Neither model supports manual focus or exposure modes - a limitation worth noting depending on your shooting ambitions.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

Knowing that both models use the same generation Canon DIGIC 4 processor with iSAPS technology, it’s unsurprising that the most significant differentiator lies in the lens and autofocus performance, as they share sensor specs.

Sensor Size and Resolution

This identical sensor gives both cameras the same baseline for image quality, including low light and dynamic range capabilities. Neither model supports RAW shooting, which means editing flexibility is limited and you’ll rely primarily on in-camera JPEG processing. Canon’s DIGIC 4 processor offers solid noise reduction and sharpening for the time, but by today’s standards, these models cannot compete with cameras sporting larger sensors and improved processors.

Real-World Image Quality

In daylight, both cameras deliver sharp, vibrant images with strong color rendition, thanks to Canon's reliable color science. However, image noise becomes noticeable at ISO 800, and ISO 3200 images will be quite grainy. The optical image stabilization helps get sharper shots in lower light but does not compensate for the sensor's noise limitations.

Lens and Zoom: Reach vs. Aperture

The fixed lens design is typical for compact cameras, but lens specifications here represent the main functional difference.

The 300 HS gives you a slightly wider 24mm equivalent field of view at the wide end - great for landscapes and group shots - and extends to 120mm telephoto, giving a bit more reach for portraits or detail shots. The wider aperture at the wide end and marginally longer focal length make it more versatile in framing your subject.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy for Your Shots

Both cameras employ a 9-point autofocus system with contrast detection only - no phase-detection AF here.

• Canon ELPH 100 HS: Features live view with face detection and continuous autofocus.
• Canon ELPH 300 HS: Limited live view AF capabilities but includes face detection and continuous AF.

The 100 HS provides a slight edge for live view autofocus usability, meaning you’ll have an easier time focusing quickly on subjects using the rear LCD. However, both cameras can struggle somewhat in low light, which is typical for ultracompact cameras of this era.

Display and User Interface: Evaluating Your Image

The rear screen is your eye finder on both cameras; here’s how they compare:

The larger 3-inch display of the 100 HS provides a more comfortable framing and reviewing experience. The clarity and color accuracy are similar on both, allowing you to check exposure and focus effectively. Neither is touchscreen or articulating, which limits versatility for some shooting angles and quick menu navigation.

Burst Shooting and Video Capabilities: Capturing Motion and Moving Images

Both cameras shoot Full HD video at 24 frames per second. Slow-motion modes are also available at lower resolutions (120 fps at 640x480 and 240 fps at 320x240). They lack external microphone inputs and advanced video features like image stabilization during recording beyond optical lens stabilization.

For casual video shooting - travel clips, family moments - these cameras perform adequately, though professionals or serious videographers will find limitations.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Considerations

• Battery: Both models use the NB-4L battery pack.
• Battery Life: Approximately 230 shots (100 HS) vs. 220 shots (300 HS).
• Storage: Compatible with SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC cards.

In everyday use, you’ll want at least one spare battery for longer outings. The battery life is average for its class, and storage flexibility allows the use of large-capacity cards.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, waterproofing, or shockproofing. This is typical for ultracompacts designed for casual photography. You’ll want to protect them from adverse weather and rough handling.

Practical Performance Across Photography Styles

Let’s dive into photography types and see how each model holds up against common user needs.

Portrait Photography

• Skin tone reproduction: Both Canon cameras deliver warm, pleasing colors with natural skin tones, thanks to the DIGIC 4 processor’s color science.
• Bokeh and depth of field: With their small sensors and moderate apertures, expect limited background blur. The 300 HS’s longer zoom length can enhance subject isolation somewhat.
• Eye detection and autofocus: Both models have face detection autofocus, promoting sharp portraits. However, the 100 HS’s live view AF provides slightly more reliable focus in continuous shooting.

Landscape Photography

• Dynamic Range: Limited by the small sensor and lack of RAW support. Expect moderate highlight and shadow retention.
• Resolution and detail: 12MP results in decent prints up to 13x19 inches.
• Lens versatility: The wider 24 mm starting focal length on the 300 HS lets you frame wider scenes, a plus for landscapes.
• Weather resistance: Neither camera is sealed, so caution is needed outdoors.

Wildlife Photography

• Autofocus speed and accuracy: Both cameras are basic at tracking fast wildlife action due to contrast-only AF and only moderate continuous shooting speeds (3 fps).
• Telephoto performance: The 300 HS edges out slightly with 120 mm max zoom, useful for tight wildlife crops.
• Burst rates: Modest burst shooting limits capturing rapid sequences.

Sports Photography

Neither camera is an ideal choice for fast sports capture - frame rates and AF tracking are limited for high-speed action.

Street Photography

• Discreteness: Both cameras are small and unobtrusive, excellent for candid shooting.
• Low-light performance: ISO maxes at 3200, but noise is significant above ISO 800.
• Portability: Excellent.

The 100 HS’s larger LCD and better live view autofocus might give you a slight edge on the street.

Macro Photography

• Both cameras allow macro focusing down to 3 cm, suitable for close-ups of flowers and small objects.
• Optical image stabilization helps steady shots at slow shutter speeds.
• No focus stacking or manual focus limits creative macro control.

Night/Astro Photography

• Both support long exposure shutter speeds down to 15 seconds.
• Noise and dynamic range limitations hinder astrophotography quality.
• No built-in intervalometer or specialized exposure modes.

Video Capabilities

Adequate for casual use with Full HD 24fps recording and slow-motion options.

• No external audio inputs restrict audio quality control.
• Optical image stabilization aids in handheld shots.

Travel Photography

• Both cameras are compact, lightweight, and easy to carry for travel.
• The 300 HS lens flexibility (24-120mm) is an advantage for a versatile travel kit.
• Battery life and storage are typical for this segment.

Professional Work

These models do not support RAW capture and have limited manual controls; they don’t meet professional demands for high-end workflows. However, they can serve as handy backups or secondary cameras.

Lens Compatibility and Accessories

Both the ELPH 100 HS and 300 HS have fixed lenses and do not support interchangeable lenses or external flashes. This limits system expansion but keeps complexity and cost low.

They support standard memory cards and USB/HDMI connections for transferring images and video.

Connectivity Features

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC - so image transfer requires a wired connection or card reader, a drawback in today’s connectivity-focused world.

Summarizing the Strengths and Weaknesses

Performance Scores and Photography Genre Ratings

Which Compact Camera Is Best for You?

Choose Canon ELPH 100 HS If:

• You want a slightly bigger LCD screen for easier framing.
• You prioritize live view autofocus for casual photography.
• You mainly shoot portraits, travel, and street photography where a simple, reliable compact performs well.
• You’re budget-conscious but still look for solid image quality and ease of use.

Choose Canon ELPH 300 HS If:

• You need a wider zoom range, including a broader 24mm wide-angle for landscapes.
• You want a bit more telephoto reach for photography that requires subject isolation, such as wildlife or casual sports.
• You prefer slightly better wide-angle lens speed (f2.7 vs. f2.8), helpful in lower light.

Final Thoughts: Good Cameras for Beginners and Casual Shooters

Both the Canon ELPH 100 HS and 300 HS are excellent ultracompact cameras for beginners and casual shooters looking for pocket-friendly cameras with straightforward operation.

However, neither is a perfect fit for enthusiasts desiring full manual controls, RAW shooting, or modern wireless features. Their aging DIGIC 4 processor and relatively small sensors limit low light and action shooting performance.

If you want a no-fuss camera to capture family moments, casual travel photos, and videos, either model will serve you well. The 300 HS boasts modestly better flexibility with its lens, while the 100 HS offers ease of use and a slightly larger screen.

Practical Tips to Enhance Your Experience

• Use flash sparingly for better natural light portraits.
• Stick to ISO 100–400 to minimize noise.
• Carry extra batteries to extend shooting time.
• Pair these cameras with a good SD card for fast and reliable storage.
• Explore Canon’s accessories like protective cases and HDMI video output cables.

Canon ELPH 100 HS front Canon ELPH 100 HS screen back Canon ELPH 300 HS front Canon ELPH 300 HS screen back

Step Forward with Confidence

We encourage you to try hands-on testing when possible, as ergonomics and feel are ultimately personal. The Canon ELPH 100 HS and 300 HS let you explore photography conveniently without the complexity of larger systems.

Get started, capture moments, and find joy in the creative process - these compact cameras can be great stepping stones on your photographic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do these cameras support manual exposure?
No, both lack manual exposure modes and rely on fully automatic shooting.

Q: Can I shoot raw images?
No, both cameras capture only JPEG files.

Q: Are these cameras still worth buying today?
For collectors or casual use at a budget, yes. But modern compacts or smartphones offer better features overall.

Q: Can you attach external flashes or lenses?
No, both have fixed lenses and built-in flash only.

Q: Which camera has better video quality?
Both are identical in video specs; no meaningful difference.

Thanks for reading this in-depth comparison! We’re here to support your creativity and help you make choices that fit your passion and budget.

Happy shooting!