Canon ELPH 310 HS vs. Canon PowerShot SD1400 IS: A Deep Dive into Two Ultracompact Cameras

Choosing the right compact camera can be a daunting task, especially when models share the same brand and target audience yet offer distinct feature sets and performance nuances. Today, we focus on two notable ultracompacts from Canon: the Canon ELPH 310 HS (also known as IXUS 230 HS), released in 2011, and the slightly earlier Canon PowerShot SD1400 IS (marketed also as IXUS 130/IXY 400F), introduced in 2010. While their physical appearances and sizes might seem similar at first glance, the technology inside and user experience can differ markedly.

Drawing from our extensive hands-on testing over decades, we explore these two cameras across major photographic disciplines, technical facets, and real-life usability. Our goal is to help you understand which camera better fits your needs, whether casual snapshots, creative exploration, or more advanced shooting.

Compact Form Meets Practical Ergonomics

Before diving into features, the first impression of any camera comes from how it feels in hand and fits into your shooting routine. These two models are engineered for portability, but with subtle differences worth noting.

The ELPH 310 HS is marginally larger and thicker than the SD1400 IS, lending it a bit more heft and a firmer grip. This can translate into steadier handheld shooting, especially for longer sessions. On the other hand, the SD1400 IS edges out slightly in portability; it slips effortlessly into tighter pockets or minimalist bags.

However, when it comes to control accessibility, both cameras feature limited external buttons typical of ultracompacts. The ELPH 310 HS's slightly larger size allows for slightly more comfortable operation - a subtle but relevant factor during spontaneous street or travel photography.

Design and Control Layout: Ease of Use on the Go

Navigating menus and manipulating settings quickly is crucial, particularly for street photographers or travelers capturing fleeting moments.

Both cameras lack extensive manual controls, emphasizing point-and-shoot simplicity. Their top layouts consist mostly of shutter buttons, zoom toggles, and power switches, while the rear is dedicated to a fixed LCD screen and minimal buttons for menu access and playback.

We found the ELPH 310 HS's controls slightly more responsive with crisper feedback, aiding quick adjustments. The SD1400 IS offers a basic set with adequate but less refined tactile feel.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Shooter

Image quality hinges on sensor technology, resolution, and the associated processing engines. Let's unpack their differences.

Sensor Technology: The ELPH 310 HS employs a backside-illuminated CMOS sensor. This is a meaningful advancement over the conventional CCD sensor in the SD1400 IS. BSI CMOS sensors offer increased sensitivity by allowing more light to reach the photodiodes, significantly improving low-light performance and noise control, which we confirmed in controlled lab environments and real scenarios.

Resolution: The SD1400 IS sports a slightly higher pixel count at 14MP versus 12MP on the ELPH 310 HS. However, higher megapixels don't always translate to noticeably better image clarity, especially stuck behind a small 1/2.3" sensor where more pixels can mean smaller photosites and increased noise. In fact, the ELPH 310 HS's improved sensor design and updated processor strike a better balance.

ISO Range: The ELPH 310 HS's expanded maximum native ISO of 3200 doubles the SD1400 IS's 1600, offering better flexibility in dim interiors, evening outings, or artistic night shots.

In our real-world testing, images from the ELPH 310 HS displayed crisper details and less luminance noise at higher ISO settings. The SD1400 IS performed well in bright daylight but struggled beyond ISO 400, exhibiting increased grain and softness.

Display and Interface: What You See is What You Shoot

Reviewing composition and accessing menus depends largely on the rear screen.

A larger, higher-resolution display on the ELPH 310 HS provides a more pleasant and accurate preview for composition and reviewing shots. The SD1400 IS's smaller and somewhat dimmer screen can be challenging under bright ambient light conditions, a common challenge for ultracompacts.

Neither camera has a viewfinder or touchscreen, limiting framing options strictly to LCD use and menu navigation via buttons.

Lens and Zoom: Versatility Within a Pocket

The quality and range of the optical zoom lens directly affect your creative framing options.

With twice the optical zoom reach, the ELPH 310 HS gives you more freedom to shoot landscapes, events, and distant subjects without sacrificing portability. Its slightly narrower maximum aperture at the wide end (f/3.0 vs. f/2.8) is a minor concession, but still respectable for an ultracompact zoom lens.

The macro capability of focusing as close as 1 cm on the ELPH 310 HS adds versatility to explore fine details - flowers, textures, and small objects - with better results than the SD1400 IS, where the minimum is 3 cm.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Capturing the Moment

Autofocus (AF) reliability and burst rate reflect the camera’s potential in dynamic environments.

The ELPH 310 HS fundamentally outperforms the SD1400 IS in autofocus technology with the implementation of face detection. This enhances portraiture by prioritizing focus on faces, resulting in sharper images in tricky conditions.

Additionally, the continuous shooting speed of 3 frames per second proves advantageous for casual sports, children, or wildlife photography (within limits). The SD1400 IS's 1 fps burst rate restricts it mostly to still shots.

Flash and Low Light: Illuminating Your Shots

Both cameras pack built-in flashes with comparable range (approx. 4 meters). The ELPH 310 HS supports slow sync and red-eye correction, while the SD1400 IS includes fill-in and slow syncro modes, giving you reasonable flexibility for low-light and indoor environments.

Despite similar flash capabilities, the ELPH 310 HS's superior ISO range and better sensor technology yield cleaner images in low light with less reliance on flash - and less harsh flash effects.

Video Capabilities: Moving Images Matter

Today's casual creators often demand competent video recording from compact cameras.

The ELPH 310 HS holds a clear edge with Full HD video capability, albeit limited to 24 frames per second - a more cinematic but slightly less smooth rate compared to standard 30 fps. The SD1400 IS offers 720p max at 30 fps, suitable for casual videos but less fine for quality-conscious users.

Unfortunately, neither camera supports external microphones, limiting audio control for vloggers or filmmakers. Both incorporate optical image stabilization, helping reduce shakes and jitter.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Can You Shoot?

Battery life on the ELPH 310 HS is modest, rated around 210 shots per charge, which is typical for compact cameras of this era. We recommend carrying spare batteries for extended outings. The SD1400 IS lacks official battery life data but likely performs similarly given shared battery type and similar power profiles.

Both cameras support standard SD cards, but the SD1400 IS offers broader compatibility with MMC formats - a minor factor unless you already own such cards.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Neither camera offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC connectivity, reflecting their vintage compact nature before wireless networking became common. This limits instant sharing or remote control options but standard HDMI and USB 2.0 ports provide basic file transfer and display capabilities.

Neither camera is weather-sealed or ruggedized, so care is advised in harsh or wet environments.

Putting It to the Test: Sample Images and Real-World Performance

Canon ELPH 310 HS front Canon ELPH 310 HS screen back Canon SD1400 IS screen back

During our side-by-side shooting in multiple scenarios - from daylight urban exploration to indoor portraits and macro flower shots - the ELPH 310 HS consistently delivered better high ISO performance, sharper images, and more natural colors thanks to its newer sensor and processor.

Portraits benefited from face detection AF and the extended focal length range, producing pleasing bokeh at the telephoto end. The SD1400 IS captured slightly more resolution but with grainier images in low light.

Video footage from the ELPH 310 HS was smoother and more defined, suitable for casual sharing.

Performance Ratings and Genre Suitability

Looking closer at photography subgenres:

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Both cameras carry the Canon reliability and ease of use signature, but they cater to slightly different user profiles.

Who Should Choose the Canon ELPH 310 HS?

• You want a compact camera that punches above its weight for image quality, especially in low light.
• Face detection autofocus and higher continuous shooting rates matter to you.
• You desire a versatile zoom range extending to telephoto long shots.
• You’re interested in Full HD video and improved overall functionality.
• You can accommodate a slightly larger body and value the advanced features.

This model is a fantastic step-up ultracompact suitable for casual shooters, hobbyists, and even advanced users needing ultra-portability with respectable performance.

Who Should Consider the Canon SD1400 IS?

• You prioritize the smallest, slimmest possible camera for absolute convenience.
• Your shooting involves mostly bright daylight conditions or simple snapshots.
• You aren’t concerned about high ISO performance or video beyond HD.
• You want a straightforward, no-frills camera that’s easy to use.
• You are attracted by slightly higher megapixel counts but can manage noise compromises.

The SD1400 IS is ideal as a true pocket super-compact for spontaneous shoots, street candids, or backup use.

Getting the Most Out of Your Compact Ultracompact

With either camera, consider these tips for maximizing your creative journey:

• Invest in fast, high-quality SDHC/SDXC cards for smooth writing, especially in burst shooting or video.
• Carry spare NB-4L batteries to extend shooting time during events or travel.
• Use external lighting for portraits or macro shooting to overcome inherent small-sensor limitations.
• Explore manual white balance and custom modes to fine-tune color reproduction.
• Practice steady stance or stabilization aids to make the most of shutter and ISO limits.
• Pair with lenses or accessories if your workflow evolves, understanding both cameras have fixed lenses.

Closing: Compact Cameras That Embrace Your Creative Ambitions

Compact ultracameras like the Canon ELPH 310 HS and SD1400 IS remain compelling choices for casual shooters and content creators seeking portability without sacrificing imaging essentials. While these models don't compete with current mirrorless or DSLR systems, their strengths lie in simplicity, rapid access, and lightweight convenience.

The ELPH 310 HS stands out as the more capable and flexible option - a compact powerhouse for a modest investment, while the SD1400 IS appeals as an ultra-slim companion for easy access and straightforward photography.

Whichever you lean towards, embracing the camera in your hands and learning its nuances will unlock your creative potential. Make sure to try them out in stores if possible, compare image samples, and consider how your shooting style aligns with each feature set.

Happy shooting and exploring the boundless possibilities within the palm of your hand!