Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 vs ELPH 360 HS: A Hands-On Ultracompact Showdown

In the compact camera world, Canon’s PowerShot ELPH series consistently caters to photographers craving portability layered with decent optics and user-friendly features. Today, we’re diving into a detailed, no-fluff comparison between two pocketable contenders separated by just under two years: the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 (released 2014) and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS (2016). Both cameras slot into the ultracompact category, designed with casual shooters, travelers, and everyday users in mind. But which one better suits your photography style and needs? Having rigorously tested both units, I’ll walk you through their core differences - from sensor tech to real-world usability - so you can decide confidently.

Getting to Know the Cameras: Size, Ergonomics & Physical Design

Let’s start by sizing each camera up - literally. Both models uphold the ELPH line's trademark slim, pocket-ready form, yet some dimensional nuances impact comfort and handling.

The ELPH 135 is remarkably compact at 95 x 54 x 22 mm, sliding effortlessly into a jacket pocket or small pouch. Weighing in at a mere 127 grams, it’s feather-light, making it ideal for carry-everywhere convenience. In contrast, the ELPH 360 HS is a little chunkier at 100 x 58 x 23 mm and weighs about 147 grams - still highly portable, but you’ll feel the difference after a full day of handheld shooting.

Handling-wise, the ELPH 360 HS feels slightly more solid in my palm thanks to the subtly pronounced grip, apparent in the slightly wider body. This matters if you tend to shoot for extended periods. Both cameras use a plastic body finish that feels plastic-y, but the 360 HS’s finish is marginally more resistant to fingerprints and smudges.

On top of dimensions, consider the button layout and control placement:

Here, the ELPH 360 HS edges forward with a few extra physical controls, including a dedicated zoom toggle and easy-access playback button. The ELPH 135 keeps it minimalist, which some may appreciate for quick point-and-shoot simplicity, but others might find limiting. Neither camera offers a traditional viewfinder, relying solely on their LCDs for composition.

Sensor Technology & Imaging Performance: Old School CCD vs Modern BSI-CMOS

Moving into image quality territory, the two cameras showcase distinct sensor technologies that set performance expectations right away.

The ELPH 135 employs a 1/2.3” 16MP CCD sensor, a workhorse that was common in compact cameras a decade ago. CCD sensors traditionally deliver rich colors but tend to have higher noise levels at elevated ISOs and limited dynamic range. Plus, optimum ISO stops at 1600, handicapping low-light versatility.

The ELPH 360 HS upgrades to a 1/2.3” 20MP back-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor, which is a newer architecture designed to gather light more efficiently. This improves noise performance, especially beyond ISO 800, and boosts dynamic range - essential for vibrant landscape shots and challenging lighting. The native ISO maxes out at 3200, widening your creative options in dim environments.

From testing, the 360 HS clearly produces cleaner images with finer detail retention under most circumstances. That said, neither camera can rival larger sensor compacts or mirrorless models, but their performance is reasonable for casual everyday shooting, snapshots, and social media sharing.

When it comes to resolution, the 360 HS outputs images at 5184 x 3888 pixels, offering ample cropping flexibility, whereas the 135 maxes out at 4608 x 3456 pixels. Again, noticeable but not revolutionary.

LCD Screens & User Interface: Bigger, Sharper, More Informative

With no electronic viewfinder on either model, live composing happens via rear LCDs - and here, the ELPH 360 HS delights with an obvious advantage.

The 360 HS sports a 3-inch fixed TFT LCD with 461k dots, doubling the resolution of the ELPH 135’s 2.7-inch, 230k-dot screen. This translates to smoother preview images and easier playback review, especially in bright outdoor conditions. I found myself squinting at the 135’s display more than once when confirming focus or checking framing, something that can break the shooting flow.

Neither camera offers touchscreen functionality, so all navigation depends on physical buttons - not a dealbreaker but something to note, given touchscreen ubiquity in newer cameras and phones.

Lens & Zoom Capabilities: Longer Reach with More Versatility

On the optical front, both models boast fixed lenses but with different zoom capabilities and aperture ranges.

ELPH 135:

• 28-224mm equivalent (8x zoom)
• Max aperture f/3.2–6.9

ELPH 360 HS:

• 25-300mm equivalent (12x zoom)
• Max aperture f/3.6–7.0

The 360 HS not only offers a wider wide-angle view at 25mm but pushes its telephoto reach out to a substantial 300mm equivalent. This extended focal length is a significant advantage for travel snaps, wildlife photography, and sports spectators wanting closer shots without lugging extra gear.

The tradeoff is a slightly smaller aperture at both extremes, meaning less low-light capability compared to the brighter 28mm f/3.2 of the 135 at wide angle. However, given the 360 HS’s improved sensor sensitivity and optical image stabilization (vs. digital on the 135), the overall impact is mitigated in real shooting.

I appreciated the 360 HS’s smoother, more responsive zoom ring and clearer scale markings during field tests, which aids creative framing judgment without guessing.

Autofocus & Shooting Speed: Stepping Up the Game for Action

Here’s where the cameras diverge operationally.

The ELPH 135 features 9 contrast-detection autofocus points and supports face detection, but it’s limited to a modest 1 fps continuous shooting speed - essentially single-shot pace. Autofocus locks reasonably under good light but can stumble in dim or complex scenes.

The ELPH 360 HS upgrades to a more capable contrast-detection system with selective AF options and face detection, yet it lacks advanced eye or subject tracking offered on higher-end models. What’s important though is the improved continuous shooting rate at 2.5 fps, which strikes a midway balance for casual action captures like kids running or quick street moments.

Neither camera supports manual focus extensively - 135 has no manual focus, 360 HS allows manual focus control but without focus peaking or magnification aids, so precise focusing in macro or selective portrait work can be challenging.

For wildlife or sports, these cameras aren’t ideal pro shooters but the 360 HS’s slightly faster AF and burst rate give it a mild competitive edge for casual enthusiasts wanting to freeze motion non-professionally.

Image Stabilization & Low Light Performance: Optical Wins Over Digital

Both cameras include image stabilization, but their types differ distinctly:

• ELPH 135 uses Digital Image Stabilization
• ELPH 360 HS features Optical Image Stabilization

This difference is central. Digital stabilization works by cropping and aligning images in post-processing but is generally less effective at reducing blur from handshake, especially at telephoto settings or slow shutter speeds. Optical stabilization, conversely, physically compensates lens or sensor movement, resulting in noticeably sharper shots without sacrificing framing or crop.

In low light, the 360 HS again holds the advantage. Its BSI-CMOS sensor handles ISO 1600-3200 far better than the CCD in the 135, which gets noisy and grainy past 800 ISO. Also, the 360 HS’s wider zoom range paired with OIS means you can shoot handheld at longer focal lengths without image blur - a benefit for indoor events or fading daylight.

Video Capabilities: From Basic to Full HD

If videos are on your radar, the ELPH 360 HS clearly stands out.

The original 135 tops out at 1280 x 720 (HD) at 25fps, a modest specification even in 2014 standards, with basic H.264 compression and no external mic input.

The 360 HS offers Full HD 1080p at 30fps, supporting both MPEG-4 and H.264 formats, delivering cleaner, smoother footage. The wider zoom field and optical stabilization make handheld recording more stable and versatile.

Neither camera provides advanced video controls, 4K, time-lapse, or external audio connectivity, so they best serve casual videographers or spontaneous family moments rather than serious film projects.

Battery Life & Storage: Squeezing Every Shot

Battery endurance is a practical concern for days out shooting.

• ELPH 135 claims ~230 shots per charge
• ELPH 360 HS rated for ~180 shots per charge

In real-world use, the larger screen and HD video on the 360 HS do eat battery faster. Still, both cameras use proprietary battery packs (NB-11L and NB-11LH respectively) rather than AA or standard users’ batteries, so carrying an extra charged pack is advisable for extended trips.

Memory-wise, both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with a single slot each, offering ample storage flexibility.

Connectivity & Extras: Pocket Wi-Fi and NFC on the 360 HS

One area where the 360 HS notably improves usability is wireless connectivity.

• ELPH 135 has no wireless features
• ELPH 360 HS features built-in Wi-Fi and NFC

This translates directly into seamless wireless image transfer to smartphones and tablets, facilitating instant social sharing or remote shutter functions - a convenience the 135 sorely misses in today’s connected world.

Both cameras lack GPS, HDMI (only 360 HS has HDMI out), microphone jacks, or touchscreen operation, emphasizing their budget, entry-level nature.

Durability & Build Quality: No Weather-Sealing to Speak Of

As expected in ultracompacts here, neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or ruggedness features. They're designed primarily for casual indoor or light outdoor use, so caution in harsh or wet environments is prudent.

Comparing Sample Images: Color, Clarity, and Detail

Canon ELPH 135 front Canon ELPH 135 screen back Canon ELPH 360 HS front Canon ELPH 360 HS screen back

Looking at side-by-side sample shots, the ELPH 360 HS generally delivers better color accuracy, finer detail, and improved dynamic range. The 135’s outputs show slightly muted colors and a softer overall look. Skin tones in gentle portraiture appear more natural on the 360 HS, helped by the updated sensor and image processing.

In macro shots close to 1cm focus range, both cameras perform adequately, but the 360 HS’s manual focus assistance helps nail sharpness better. Landscape images show less highlight clipping and stronger shadow detail on the 360 HS, confirming its improved sensor’s superior dynamic range.

Performance Scores & Genre-Specific Strengths

It’s useful to quantify strengths for diverse photographic styles:

• Portraiture: ELPH 360 HS takes the lead with better skin tone rendering, improved face detection, and manual focus options for selective focusing.
• Landscape: The 360 HS’s higher resolution, wider angle, and dynamic range provide noticeably better landscape images.
• Wildlife & Sports: While neither model is designed for fast action, the 360 HS can edge out with 2.5 fps continuous shooting and longer telephoto zoom.
• Street Photography: Both are discreet, but the 135’s smaller size can be an advantage for the most covert shooting.
• Macro: Slight favor to 360 HS due to manual focus; autofocus struggles on both at extreme close ranges.
• Night / Astro: The 360 HS is markedly better, thanks to ISO 3200 and optical stabilization.
• Video: 360 HS wins hands down with Full HD and stabilization.
• Travel: Both portable, but the 360 HS’s versatility and connectivity make it a more competent travel companion.
• Professional Work: Neither replaces professional gear, but the 360 HS’s better image quality and features can serve as a capable backup or casual everyday shooter.

Price and Value: Budgeting Your Buy

Let’s talk brass tacks. The Canon ELPH 135 retails around $120, an entry-level price point reflecting its simpler tech and older design. It’s perfect for casual users wanting a straightforward, ultra-pocketable camera without bells and whistles.

The ELPH 360 HS, priced around $210, nearly doubles that, but packs substantial upgrades in sensor, zoom range, stabilization, video, and connectivity.

The question boils down to your shooting priorities and how much value you place on those incremental improvements.

Wrapping Up: Which Canon ELPH Is Your Best Fit?

Both cameras uphold Canon’s reliable ultracompact ethos - small, affordable, and easy to use. But here’s how I’d advise:

• Choose the Canon ELPH 135 if:

  • You want the smallest, lightest possible camera.
  • Shooting remains casual snapshots with minimal fuss.
  • Budget constraints rule.
  • You seldom record video beyond casual HD clips.

• Opt for the Canon ELPH 360 HS if:

  • You demand better image quality, richer colors, and sharper detail.
  • You’ll use telephoto zoom for travel, wildlife, or distant subjects.
  • Video quality and stabilization are important.
  • Wireless sharing and modern connectivity matter.
  • You want a versatile all-rounder with decent low-light capability.

In the grand scheme, the ELPH 360 HS is simply a more competent and modern performer for a modest price increase. The ELPH 135 remains a charming throwback to simpler compact cameras - a “point-and-shoot” without pretensions.

This has been an in-depth head-to-head informed by firsthand testing and technical analysis across multiple photography disciplines. Whether you gravitate toward ultra-portability or advanced functionality, these insights should guide your next compact Canon purchase confidently.

Happy shooting!