Canon Elph 115 IS vs. Casio EX-ZR400: In-Depth Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

When selecting a compact camera, especially from models launched around the same period, understanding the nuanced differences can save you from buyer’s remorse and significantly enhance your photography journey. Today, we'll take a hands-on, technical deep dive into two popular ultracompact models from early 2013: the Canon Elph 115 IS (also known as IXUS 132 HS) and the Casio EX-ZR400. Both cameras pack features targeting casual shooters and enthusiasts alike, but their design philosophies, technical merits, and practical applications diverge in meaningful ways.

Drawing from thorough real-world testing and expert analysis, we’ll guide you through their sensor technology, handling, image quality, autofocus prowess, and suitability across varied photographic disciplines. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an accessible point-and-shoot or a seasoned traveler seeking compact flexibility, this detailed comparison will clarify which camera suits your creative goals best.

How They Feel in Your Hands: Body Design and Ergonomics

One of the first things you'll notice is how each camera feels and fits. The Canon Elph 115 IS embraces an ultracompact profile with dimensions of 93x57x20 mm and a featherlight 135g body weight. This makes it ideal for slipping into a pocket or a small purse, emphasizing portability above all else.

The Casio EX-ZR400, by contrast, is more substantial at 105x59x29 mm and weighs 205g - still compact, but bordering on the larger side within the compact category. This added bulk translates into a more solid grip, which can be a blessing, especially in extended shooting sessions or when aiming for stability without a tripod.

Ergonomics-wise:

• Canon Elph 115 IS features minimalist controls with no dedicated manual focus wheel or physical dials. Its simplicity means less fiddling but also fewer creative manual controls.

• Casio EX-ZR400 includes manual focus capability and a more versatile control layout suited for users looking to explore exposure priority or even full manual shooting modes.

Referencing the top plate layout helps visualize how user controls differ.

If you value subtlety and portability for street or travel photography, the Canon’s smaller footprint is advantageous. For those who appreciate more tactile feedback and control in a compact camera, Casio's design feels more deliberate and grip-friendly.

Inside the Camera: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Both cameras pack a 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor with a 16-megapixel resolution, yielding identical sensor dimensions (6.17x4.55 mm). This sensor size is standard in compact cameras and balances resolution and noise performance for the class. Details:

In practical use, this sensor choice means both cameras deliver similar pixel-level detail under good light conditions. Noise handling at higher ISO is comparable, with performance tapering predictably as illumination decreases. The slightly lower minimum native ISO on Casio (ISO 80 vs. 100) offers a marginal advantage for shooting in very bright conditions, allowing wider apertures or longer shutter speeds without overexposure.

The Canon’s DIGIC 5 processor brings efficient noise reduction and color processing optimized for Canon’s color science, resulting in faithful skin tones and pleasing JPEG output straight out of the camera.

Casio’s proprietary Exilim Engine HS is focused on speed and burst performance (more on that below), but image tuning retains natural colors with a slight boost in vibrancy compared to Canon, which can be appealing for landscape shots.

Live View and Display: Your Window on the World

Both cameras feature a fixed 3.0-inch LCD with 461k-dot resolution, granting a clear viewing experience for composing and reviewing shots.

• Canon uses a PureColor II G TFT LCD, offering solid daylight visibility but no touchscreen functionality.
• Casio employs a Super Clear TFT color LCD, which tends to benefit from slightly better viewing angles and brightness under shade.

Neither has a viewfinder, so you’ll depend entirely on the screen for framing - something to consider if you often shoot under harsh sunlight.

While neither is selfie-optimized, both include live view AF modes with face detection - though Canon’s version is more consistent and detectable with multiple faces, helpful for casual portraits.

Lens and Focal Range: Versatility Matters

Lens specifications often define how effectively a camera adapts to diverse shooting conditions.

The Canon Elph 115 IS offers a moderate zoom range, starting wide at 24mm, suitable for landscapes and wider scenes, but telephoto reach maxes out at 120mm, limiting distant subject capture.

In contrast, the Casio EX-ZR400 doubles this reach to an impressive 300mm equivalent, giving you real telephoto reach for wildlife, sports, or isolated portrait shots without needing additional lenses.

Both lenses offer optical image stabilization but via different mechanisms: Canon uses a classic lens-shift optical stabilization, proven and effective for handheld shooting. Casio integrates sensor-shift stabilization, which can compensate across axes and assist in video as well as stills.

The Casio’s superior macro focus capability, down to 1cm, excels for detail-rich close-up work, where the Canon’s 3cm is more limited. This means if you’re into macro or flower photography, the Casio can handle close focusing with greater finesse.

Autofocus Systems: Speed and Accuracy

Autofocus can make or break your shooting experience, especially for active scenes like sports or wildlife.

• Canon Elph 115 IS

  • 9 autofocus points with 1 cross-type sensor
  • Contrast-detection AF only
  • Single, continuous, and tracking autofocus modes
  • Face detection and basic eye detection capabilities

• Casio EX-ZR400

  • Unknown focus point count, no cross points
  • Contrast-detection AF only
  • Single and tracking autofocus available
  • No face or eye detection modes

In real usage, the Canon’s dedicated face detection significantly improves portrait reliability and focusing speed when detecting people. The EX-ZR400 trades off some autofocus sophistication for a faster burst rate (more on shooting speed later). Casio’s manual focus option grants further control unavailable on the Canon.

For fast-moving subjects or tricky lighting, neither camera’s AF system can compete with superior hybrid phase-detect autofocus found in DSLRs or mirrorless cameras. However, Canon edges ahead for general accuracy, especially in human subjects, while Casio is more geared toward fast shutter release sequences.

Burst Shooting and Performance: Capture the Action

Performance extends beyond autofocus - frame rate and buffer depth matter for sports, wildlife, or decisive moments.

• Canon Elph 115 IS maxes out at 2 fps continuous shooting.
• Casio EX-ZR400 impressively delivers 30 fps bursts.

This difference is stark and stems largely from Casio’s Exilim Engine HS processor optimized for speed, combined with streamlined buffer handling.

For action photographers, the Casio’s ability to shoot high-speed bursts without significant lag is a major selling point, allowing you to capture fleeting moments such as a bird in flight or a sprint on the track.

Image Stabilization and Low-Light Performance

Image stabilization in both models helps combat blur in handheld shooting, particularly at telephoto or slow shutter speeds.

• Canon’s Optical IS tends to perform reliably, smoothing out camera shake with a few stops of advantage.
• Casio’s Sensor-shift stabilization is versatile but can sometimes introduce artifacts at the extreme ends of zoom.

Neither camera shines in very low light, however, due to small sensor size and limited aperture at telephoto. Maximum ISO 3200 is acceptable but ISO noise becomes noticeable past ISO 800 for both.

Video Recording Capabilities

Video specs are similar but nuanced to your needs:

The Casio excels in novelty slow-motion footage, with ultra-high frame rates for creative effects, albeit at low resolution. Video quality at 1080p is slightly smoother on Casio (30fps vs. 24fps on Canon), but neither offers external audio inputs, limiting serious video production work.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery endurance is a defining factor for travel photographers.

• Canon Elph 115 IS battery life: around 170 shots per charge.
• Casio EX-ZR400 battery life: about 500 shots per charge.

The Casio’s large battery and efficient processing greatly surpass Canon in longevity, which translates into less charging downtime and more shooting freedom on the go. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with a single card slot.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Connectivity options are limited on both cameras compared to modern standards.

• Canon offers no wireless or Bluetooth connectivity.
• Casio supports Eye-Fi card compatibility, enabling wireless image transfer via compatible SD cards.

Neither model includes NFC or integrated Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, which limits instant sharing capabilities. If you prioritize wireless convenience, Casio’s Eye-Fi support provides a slight edge, though still requiring specialized SD cards.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers environmental sealing, waterproofing, or shock resistance characteristic of rugged compacts. Both are best treated as delicate electronics best protected in padded bags during outdoor excursions.

Real-World Usage Across Photography Genres

Let’s explore how these specifications and features pan out for different photography styles.

Portrait Photography

• Canon Elph 115 IS simplifies portrait work with effective face detection autofocus and pleasing Canon color science for skin tones. Its lens starts brighter at f/2.7, allowing for decent background separation indoors.
• Casio EX-ZR400 permits manual focus for creative control but lacks face/eye detection. Longer focal reach can craft tight headshots but at f/3.0 aperture limits low light bokeh.

Recommendation: Canon is friendlier to beginners or casual portrait shooters.

Landscape Photography

• Both provide 16MP resolution with 24mm wide capability.
• Canon's sharper color rendering is well suited to vivid scenes.
• Casio’s wider zoom enables isolating distant mountains or details at telephoto.

Recommendation: Casio offers more versatility through zoom; Canon edges in color fidelity.

Wildlife Photography

• Casio’s 12.5x zoom and 30fps burst make it the clear choice for shooting animals at a distance.
• Canon’s 5x zoom and 2fps limit framing and timing.

Recommendation: Casio, hands down, for wildlife enthusiasts.

Sports Photography

• Burst and autofocus tracking are critical; Casio wins with 30fps.
• Canon struggles to keep pace with low 2fps continuous shooting.

Recommendation: Casio better suits casual sports shooting.

Street Photography

• Canon’s compactness rewards discretion and portability for candid shots.
• Casio is larger but offers longer zoom, sometimes at a cost to stealth.

Recommendation: Canon for street shooters valuing subtlety.

Macro Photography

• Casio’s closer 1cm focus and manual focus shine for macro subjects.
• Canon’s 3cm closest focusing lags behind.

Recommendation: Casio provides more macro flexibility.

Night and Astrophotography

• Both limited by small sensor size and lack long exposure modes beyond 15 seconds.
• Canon’s native ISO 100 minimum is slightly less flexible.
• Noise control and image quality are broadly similar.

Recommendation: Neither excels, but Canon might edge slightly in color fidelity.

Video Work

• Casio's smoother Full HD 30fps and slow-motion modes offer more creative options.
• Canon’s video is adequate but less versatile.

Recommendation: Casio for casual video shooters.

Travel Photography

• Canon’s lightweight, pocket-ready dimensions and ease of operation suit travelers.
• Casio’s longer battery life and zoom versatility benefit those needing one camera for diverse scenarios.

Recommendation: For minimalist travel, Canon; for flexible all-rounder, Casio.

Professional Work

• Both cameras lack RAW support, reduce post-processing latitude.
• No environmental sealing, limited controls, and inferior image quality relative to higher-end models.

Recommendation: Neither is ideal for critical professional work but could function as backup cameras.

Canon Elph 115 IS front Canon Elph 115 IS screen back Casio EX ZR400 front Casio EX ZR400 screen back

Above are side-by-side image samples from each camera. Note Canon’s color warmth and Casio’s extended zoom framing.

Summary Ratings: Performance and Features

Our evaluation condenses into the following scores (out of 10):

Suitability Across Photography Types

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Canon Elph 115 IS:

• Who should consider it? You if you desire a pocketable, easy-to-use ultracompact for everyday shooting - especially portraits and travel snapshots. Canon’s renowned color science and simple interface make it beginner-friendly.
• Strengths: Portability, ease of use, pleasing colors, solid image stabilization.
• Limitations: Limited zoom and burst speed, no manual controls, shorter battery life.

Casio EX-ZR400:

• Who should consider it? You if you want a versatile compact camera with exceptional zoom range and rapid burst shooting for wildlife, sports, and macro photography. Its manual exposure options also appeal to enthusiasts stepping beyond auto modes.
• Strengths: Extended zoom, fast continuous shooting, excellent battery life, macro focus.
• Limitations: Larger size, less refined autofocus for portraits, no face detection.

Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Choice

• Try before you buy: Handling comfort can’t be overstated. Visit a camera store to get a feel for these cameras.
• Matching lenses or accessories: Neither supports interchangeable lenses, but invest in quality SD cards and carry extra batteries.
• Post-processing: Since neither offers RAW out of the box, shoot in the highest quality JPEG and use software like Lightroom to enhance.
• Firmware updates: Check manufacturer sites for any improvements, though unlikely for these older models.

Wrapping Up: Making the Informed Choice

The Canon Elph 115 IS and Casio EX-ZR400 serve different, albeit overlapping, user groups - with Canon focusing on ultra-portability and reliable simplicity, and Casio pushing technical boundaries in zoom and shooting speed within a compact frame.

Your choice hinges on whether you prioritize subtle, easy shooting and travel convenience or versatile, fast shooting performance with extensive zoom.

Either way, both cameras exemplify solid engineering for their time and offer accessible entry points into photography with distinct advantages. For seamless creative exploration, pairing your chosen camera with a comfortable bag and learning lighting fundamentals will elevate your photos beyond technical specs.

Happy shooting and enjoy exploring your photographic voice with whichever companion you select!

If you want to explore further or compare to newer models, our ongoing tests continually update the landscape - stay tuned, and let us know your experiences with these cameras!