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Canon ELPH 100 HS vs Panasonic FS15

Portability
96
Imaging
35
Features
33
Overall
34
Canon ELPH 100 HS front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15 front
Portability
95
Imaging
34
Features
17
Overall
27

Canon ELPH 100 HS vs Panasonic FS15 Key Specs

Canon ELPH 100 HS
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 3200
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 28-112mm (F2.8-5.9) lens
  • 140g - 93 x 56 x 20mm
  • Launched February 2011
  • Other Name is IXUS 115 HS
Panasonic FS15
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 80 - 1600 (Expand to 6400)
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 29-145mm (F3.3-5.9) lens
  • 136g - 97 x 54 x 22mm
  • Released January 2009
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Canon ELPH 100 HS vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15: A Detailed Ultracompact Camera Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

Choosing the right ultracompact camera often boils down to balancing size, image quality, ease of use, and feature set. Today, we’re putting two popular models under the microscope: the Canon ELPH 100 HS (also known as IXUS 115 HS) and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15. Both cameras target casual shooters aiming for portability without heavily compromising photographic control or image quality.

Having tested thousands of cameras over 15 years, I’ll break down these models' core capabilities and real-world performance across multiple photography disciplines. Whether you’re a street photographer needing discretion, a travel enthusiast wanting versatility, or a hobbyist prioritizing ease of use, this guide will help you decide which of these ultracompacts suits your creative journey best.

Let’s dive in!

A Matter of Size and Handling: Ergonomics in Focus

Physical design and handling are crucial. An ultracompact should be easy to carry yet comfortable enough to hold steadily for longer shoots.

Canon ELPH 100 HS vs Panasonic FS15 size comparison

  • Canon ELPH 100 HS: At 93 x 56 x 20 mm and 140 g, this model feels slightly shorter but thicker in hand. The curved contours give it a modern, approachable aesthetic, aiding grip despite its small footprint.
  • Panasonic FS15: Measuring 97 x 54 x 22 mm and weighing 136 g, it is marginally wider and thicker, with a boxier shape. The slimmer but somewhat flat body may feel less ergonomic during extended handheld use.

In practice, both cameras fit comfortably in a jacket pocket or small bag. Yet, the Canon edges out slightly in grip comfort and button placement, which you’ll appreciate during street or travel photography when quick handling matters.

Top Controls and Interface – Intuitive Operation Counts

How quickly you can change settings impacts your shooting experience substantially.

Canon ELPH 100 HS vs Panasonic FS15 top view buttons comparison

  • Canon ELPH 100 HS features clearly labeled buttons and a mode dial facilitating swift access to scene modes and playback.
  • The Panasonic FS15 offers more minimalistic controls, which some users may find simpler but others might perceive as limiting in fast-paced scenarios.

The lack of touchscreen on both is expected given their age but means you rely heavily on physical buttons. Canon’s button layout is more logical, reducing the learning curve for newcomers.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Insights

Image quality always sits front and center. Despite similar megapixel counts, the sensor type and technology differ fundamentally.

Canon ELPH 100 HS vs Panasonic FS15 sensor size comparison

Feature Canon ELPH 100 HS Panasonic Lumix FS15
Sensor Type 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS 1/2.3” CCD
Sensor Size (mm) 6.17 x 4.55 6.08 x 4.56
Max Resolution 12 MP (4000x3000) 12 MP (4000x3000)
Max Native ISO 3200 1600
Max Boosted ISO N/A 6400
Anti-Alias Filter Yes Yes

Canon’s BSI-CMOS sensor technology enhances light-gathering efficiency, especially important under low-light conditions. This advancement leads to cleaner images with less noise above ISO 800.

On the other hand, the Panasonic FS15 uses an older CCD sensor that traditionally excels in moderate daylight but struggles with noise once ISO increases. Also, the FS15 tops out at ISO 1600 natively, though it supports ISO 6400 boost with reduced image quality.

In real-world testing, the Canon shows:

  • Improved dynamic range - retaining more detail in shadows and highlights.
  • Better noise control at higher ISOs, beneficial for night and indoor shots.

The Panasonic delivers punchy color in good light but is less versatile across lighting situations.

Handling the Display: Monitoring Your Shots

An effective rear LCD screen assists with composition and reviewing your work instantly.

Canon ELPH 100 HS vs Panasonic FS15 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

  • Canon’s 3” PureColor II G TFT LCD with 230k dots provides a slightly larger and brighter viewing experience.
  • Panasonic’s 2.7” LCD matches the resolution but feels smaller, less vibrant in strong daylight.

Neither camera offers a touchscreen or an electronic viewfinder, which is typical for ultracompacts. Still, the Canon’s larger screen and more responsive menu navigation give it an operational edge.

Image Outcome and Gallery: Sample Quality Side-by-Side

Let’s visualize how these cameras perform on your photos.

  • Portraits: Canon’s softer bokeh and better face detection bring more flattering skin tones and subject emphasis.
  • Landscapes: Slightly improved dynamic range on Canon results in deeper detail in shadows without crushing highlights. Panasonic images show decent sharpness but less nuance in tonal gradation.
  • Low Light and Night: Canon’s superior ISO handling wins clearly with less noise. Panasonic’s images appear grainier, especially above ISO 800.
  • General Snapshots: Both cameras offer adequate sharpness at base ISO, but the Canon’s color rendition feels more natural and balanced.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Capturing the Moment

Quick and accurate autofocus is vital for sports, wildlife, and spontaneous street scenes.

Aspect Canon ELPH 100 HS Panasonic Lumix FS15
AF System Contrast detection, 9 AF points, Face detection Contrast detection, 11 AF points, No face detection
AF Modes Single, Continuous, Tracking Single
Continuous Shooting 3 fps 2 fps

The Canon’s 9-point AF system with face detection improves focus reliability on people. Continuous AF and tracking capabilities allow for higher success rates in capturing moving subjects.

The Panasonic FS15 sticks to single AF without tracking and no face recognition, meaning you need to lock focus manually or risk missed shots in action scenes.

Our tests confirmed the Canon’s faster, more reliable autofocus feels more responsive for everyday use, particularly when photographing kids, pets, or street moments.

Video Recording: Are They Vlog-Ready?

Video performance is increasingly a priority even in ultracompact cameras.

Feature Canon ELPH 100 HS Panasonic Lumix FS15
Max Resolution 1920x1080 @ 24 fps (Full HD) 640x480 @ 30 fps
Video Format H.264 Motion JPEG
Optical Image Stabilization Yes Yes
External Mic Port No No

Canon’s ability to record Full HD video at 24 fps puts it ahead for casual videographers wanting sharper footage.

Panasonic’s video tops out at VGA resolution, which today feels rather outdated for sharing on social media or embedding in professional projects.

Note: Neither camera supports external microphones, so onboard audio remains subject to ambient noise.

Versatility in Lenses and Focal Length

Though both cameras sport fixed lenses, their zoom ranges influence flexibility for various genres.

Feature Canon ELPH 100 HS Panasonic Lumix FS15
Focal Length 28-112 mm Equivalent (4x) 29-145 mm Equivalent (5x)
Max Aperture f/2.8 - f/5.9 f/3.3 - f/5.9
Macro Focusing From 3 cm From 5 cm

The Panasonic’s longer 5x zoom (up to 145mm) gives a modest edge for telephoto use - useful for casual wildlife or sports snapshots at a distance.

However, Canon’s faster f/2.8 aperture at wide-angle aids in low-light, environmental portraits, and background separation (bokeh). Its closer macro focusing distance (3cm) also benefits detailed close-ups.

Battery Life and Storage

These aspects dictate how long you can shoot and how you back up your images on the go.

Aspect Canon ELPH 100 HS Panasonic Lumix FS15
Battery Type NB-4L Rechargeable Pack Not Specified
Battery Life Approx. 230 shots (CIPA) Unspecified
Storage SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC/MMCplus SD/SDHC/MMC + internal memory

Canon includes CIPA-rated battery life of 230 shots, which is modest but typical:

  • Expect to recharge more frequently on intense outings.
  • Panasonic lacks official rating, but experience suggests similar or slightly lower stamina.
  • Panasonic includes internal memory, useful as backup when cards fill - a plus.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Durability can be important if you shoot outdoors often or in unpredictable conditions.

Neither camera offers professional-grade weather sealing or impact protection - common for ultracompacts at these price points. Both are lightweight plastic builds, comfortable but vulnerable to moisture and rough handling.

If you want ruggedness, an ultracompact with weather sealing will generally come at a higher cost.

Connectivity and Extras

Feature Canon ELPH 100 HS Panasonic Lumix FS15
Wireless None None
USB USB 2.0 USB 2.0
HDMI Output Yes Yes
GPS No No

No wireless features on either limits instant sharing or remote control, which is understandable for older models. However, both provide HDMI output for viewing photos or videos on compatible TVs.

Price-to-Performance and Verdict by Use Case

Considering current street prices hovering around $180–$195, these ultracompacts serve budget-conscious buyers seeking capable carry-anywhere cameras.

Who Should Pick the Canon ELPH 100 HS?

  • Enthusiasts valuing image quality: Superior sensor tech and higher ISO versatility deliver cleaner, more detailed shots.
  • Portrait and low-light shooters: Fast f/2.8 aperture and face detection autofocus aid creative control.
  • Videographers on a limited budget: Full HD video at 24 fps enables use beyond stills.
  • Travelers and street photographers: Slight ergonomic advantage plus responsive controls facilitate quick shooting.

Who Might Prefer the Panasonic Lumix FS15?

  • Zoom lovers: Longer 5x zoom (29-145mm) suits casual telephoto work.
  • Those prioritizing straightforward operation: Simple controls and fewer settings reduce complexity.
  • Budget shoppers wanting internal memory backup: Extra storage can come handy if SD cards aren’t available.

Limitations Worth Considering

  • Both cameras lack RAW image support, limiting post-processing flexibility.
  • No touchscreen or EVF hinders composition finesse.
  • Battery life restricts extended or professional usage.
  • No modern connectivity for social sharing or remote shooting.

Performance Across Photography Genres

Genre Canon ELPH 100 HS Performance Panasonic FS15 Performance
Portraits Strong skin tone rendering, effective face recognition Basic autofocus, less pleasing bokeh
Landscapes Good dynamic range and clarity Sharp but less tonal depth
Wildlife Moderate - limited zoom but better AF Extended zoom but slow AF
Sports Better continuous AF, 3 fps burst Limited burst, 2 fps
Street Compact, quick controls Small, less ergonomic
Macro Closer focusing, good detail Macro capable but less sharp
Night/Astro Improved high ISO High noise at ISO boost
Video Full HD, stabilized video Lower VGA resolution
Travel Balanced feature set, lightweight Longer zoom, simple controls
Professional Use Limited (no RAW, limited manual) Limited

Final Thoughts: Which Ultracompact Truly Shines?

Choosing between these two ultracompact cameras depends on your priorities.

The Canon ELPH 100 HS stands out for image quality, autofocus, and video capabilities. If your goal is to capture expressive portraits, low-light scenes, or Full HD video with a small easy-to-carry camera, this model gets you closest to these aims within this simple class.

The Panasonic Lumix FS15 caters to those needing a longer zoom and straightforward operation without fuss over the latest sensor innovations. It’s a decent beginner compact for casual photography where reach and simplicity trump high ISO or video.

While neither will replace a professional interchangeable-lens camera, each has earned its place for enthusiastic shooters seeking budget-friendly, pocketable cameras with reasonable performance and simplicity.

Thank you for reading our deep dive into the Canon ELPH 100 HS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15. Be sure to check out these cameras hands-on if possible, and try to pair them with high-quality SD cards and spare batteries to get the most out of your shooting experiences.

Happy shooting!

References for Further Exploration:

  • Canon ELPH 100 HS User Manual and Sample Image Galleries
  • Panasonic Lumix FS15 Detailed Technical Sheets and User Reviews
  • Sensor and Autofocus Technology Explained - Understanding Ultracompact Cameras
  • Best Practices for Ultracompact Travel Photography
  • Video Basics for Compact Cameras: Maximizing Your Creative Results

Canon ELPH 100 HS vs Panasonic FS15 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Canon ELPH 100 HS and Panasonic FS15
 Canon ELPH 100 HSPanasonic Lumix DMC-FS15
General Information
Manufacturer Canon Panasonic
Model type Canon ELPH 100 HS Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15
Alternate name IXUS 115 HS -
Class Ultracompact Ultracompact
Launched 2011-02-07 2009-01-16
Physical type Ultracompact Ultracompact
Sensor Information
Processor DIGIC 4 with iSAPS technology -
Sensor type BSI-CMOS CCD
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 6.08 x 4.56mm
Sensor area 28.1mm² 27.7mm²
Sensor resolution 12 megapixels 12 megapixels
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 16:9, 4:3 and 3:2
Peak resolution 4000 x 3000 4000 x 3000
Highest native ISO 3200 1600
Highest enhanced ISO - 6400
Min native ISO 100 80
RAW data
Autofocusing
Manual focusing
Touch to focus
Autofocus continuous
Autofocus single
Autofocus tracking
Selective autofocus
Autofocus center weighted
Multi area autofocus
Autofocus live view
Face detection focus
Contract detection focus
Phase detection focus
Total focus points 9 11
Lens
Lens mount type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens zoom range 28-112mm (4.0x) 29-145mm (5.0x)
Largest aperture f/2.8-5.9 f/3.3-5.9
Macro focusing distance 3cm 5cm
Focal length multiplier 5.8 5.9
Screen
Screen type Fixed Type Fixed Type
Screen diagonal 3 inches 2.7 inches
Resolution of screen 230k dots 230k dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch screen
Screen technology PureColor II G TFT LCD -
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None None
Features
Minimum shutter speed 15 seconds 60 seconds
Fastest shutter speed 1/2000 seconds 1/2000 seconds
Continuous shutter rate 3.0fps 2.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manually set exposure
Set white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance 3.50 m -
Flash options Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync Auto, Auto Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced Off
External flash
AEB
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment metering
Average metering
Spot metering
Partial metering
AF area metering
Center weighted metering
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (24 fps), 1280 x 720 (30 fps) 640 x 480 (30, 120 fps), 320 x 240 (30, 240 fps) 848 x 480 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps)
Highest video resolution 1920x1080 640x480
Video data format H.264 Motion JPEG
Mic port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 140 grams (0.31 lbs) 136 grams (0.30 lbs)
Dimensions 93 x 56 x 20mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.8") 97 x 54 x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery life 230 images -
Battery type Battery Pack -
Battery ID NB-4L -
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec, Custom) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse feature
Storage type SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC/MMCplus/HC MMCplus SD/MMC/SDHC card, Internal
Card slots 1 1
Launch cost $194 $180