Canon ELPH 520 HS vs Canon 550D

Here is a extended analysis of the Canon ELPH 520 HS vs Canon 550D, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR and they are both sold by Canon. There is a sizable difference between the resolutions of the ELPH 520 HS (10MP) and 550D (18MP) and the ELPH 520 HS (1/2.3") and 550D (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The ELPH 520 HS was manufactured 22 months later than the 550D which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Canon ELPH 520 HS being a Ultracompact camera and the Canon 550D being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving right into a complete comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the ELPH 520 HS matches up against the 550D in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon ELPH 520 HS & Canon EOS 550D. The entire galleries are available at Canon ELPH 520 HS Gallery & Canon 550D Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Canon ELPH 520 HS enjoys exterior dimensions of 87mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.4" x 2.1" x 0.7") and a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs) whilst the Canon 550D has measurements of 129mm x 98mm x 62mm (5.1" x 3.9" x 2.4") having a weight of 530 grams (1.17 lbs).

Look at the Canon ELPH 520 HS vs Canon 550D in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is a front view size comparison of the ELPH 520 HS against the 550D.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the ELPH 520 HS and 550D is 96 and 70 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to see the difference between sensor sizing only by reading through specs. The graphic underneath might offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the ELPH 520 HS and 550D.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The ELPH 520 HS because of its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh harder and the Canon 550D will give greater detail due to its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs more aggressively. The newer ELPH 520 HS will have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.