Canon ELPH 330 HS vs. Canon SD970 IS: An Expert Comparison of Two Compact PowerShots

When it comes to compact cameras, the Canon PowerShot line has long held appeal for enthusiasts and professionals seeking capable carry-everywhere tools. Today, I’m diving deep into two small-sensor Canon compacts from the same family: the Canon ELPH 330 HS (also known as the IXUS 255 HS) announced in early 2013 and the earlier Canon SD970 IS (aka Digital IXUS 990 IS) from 2009. Despite their apparent similarity - a compact form, 12-megapixel resolution, and touchpoints such as Canon branding - these two cameras have significant technological differences influencing performance, versatility, and overall shooting experience.

Having personally tested both extensively across multiple conditions and photography genres - from street and travel to portraits and night photography - I’ll share detailed insights into how each camera shapes up in practice, along with technical considerations and real-world usability factors. Whether you’re hunting for an affordable travel companion, an easy-to-use everyday camera, or a compact backup body, this comprehensive comparison will help you decide if the ELPH 330 HS or the SD970 IS deserves a spot in your bag.

First Impressions and Handling: Compactness with Distinction

Starting off with the physical form and ergonomics, both cameras are designed to slip effortlessly into a pocket or small purse. However, my hand-on testing revealed noteworthy differences in size and handling feel.

The ELPH 330 HS measures a slim 97 x 56 x 23 mm and weighs only 144 grams, giving it a notably lightweight profile. Conversely, the SD970 IS is slightly chunkier at 96 x 57 x 26 mm and heavier by 16 grams. On paper, the differences are minimal, but in my experience, the ELPH’s reduced thickness lends it a more modern, sleek silhouette that feels less intrusive during extended pocket carry.

Looking at the top control layout amplifies these handling contrasts further.

The ELPH 330 HS employs a pared-back control scheme consistent with point-and-shoot simplicity: a mode dial absent, a shutter button with zoom toggle, a small power button, and a four-way control button at the rear. The top is clean without clutter, which, when coupled with its ergonomic rounded edges, suits users valuing portability and quick operation.

The SD970 IS’s top view shows a slightly more traditional layout for its generation, with dedicated zoom toggle and power controls, but the additional physical thickness translates into less minimalist styling. Button travel and placement felt less intuitive to me when compared side-by-side with the ELPH, especially for users with smaller hands.

Practical takeaway: If you prioritize lightweight, compact handling with straightforward point-and-shoot operation, the ELPH 330 HS offers a fresher and easier-to-grip experience. That said, both cameras remain comfortably pocketable for casual to travel photography.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Images are why we invest in cameras, so understanding sensor technology and resulting image quality is paramount. Both cameras use a 1/2.3" sensor size, measuring approximately 6.17 x 4.55 mm, but that’s where similarities end.

The ELPH 330 HS features a BSI-CMOS sensor coupled with Canon’s DIGIC 5 processor, marking a significant leap forward in sensor tech compared with the SD970 IS’s CCD sensor and older image processor technology. BSI (Back-Side Illuminated) sensors markedly improve low-light sensitivity and noise performance by reversing the sensor’s photodiode architecture - something the older classic CCD design lacks.

From practical shooting sessions, this translates into cleaner images at higher ISO values. The ELPH 330 supports ISO 80 to 6400 natively, with usable images at ISO 800 and ISO 1600 in many lighting conditions, whereas the SD970 IS tops out at ISO 1600 and exhibits significantly more noise and detail loss beyond ISO 400.

Color rendering is also more natural on the ELPH 330 HS, thanks to the DIGIC 5 engine’s improved color processing algorithms and better dynamic range. This makes the newer model easier to work with when shooting landscapes or portraits where subtle tonal gradations are important.

Resolution-wise, both cameras offer 12MP effective pixels, producing a maximum image size of 4000 x 3000 pixels. The ELPH edges out slightly in real-world sharpness and image clarity, particularly when shooting RAW is not an option (this neither camera supports). Noise is better controlled, and highlight retention improved.

In summary:

• The ELPH 330 HS holds a clear advantage in sensor technology, ISO latitude, and dynamic range.
• The SD970 IS lags, particularly in low light, where grain and washed-out highlights become limiting.
• Neither camera supports RAW output, so in-camera JPEG processing plays a critical role, where the ELPH’s newer DIGIC 5 processor shines.

LCD Screen and User Interface: Composing and Reviewing Your Shots

Both cameras feature 3” fixed LCD screens with a resolution of 461k dots, which is respectable for their class. However, screen technology and interface usability paint a different story.

The ELPH 330 HS uses Canon’s PureColor II G technology, which delivers better brightness and contrast, making it easier to review images in bright daylight. The SD970 IS, while decent, felt slightly dimmer and with less color accuracy from my outdoor tests. Neither screen offers touchscreen responsiveness or articulating movement, which limits framing flexibility in challenging shooting angles.

As for the user interface, the ELPH 330’s menus are more modern, responsive, and logically arranged - an advantage of its newer firmware platform. The SD970 IS’s UI is more dated and occasionally sluggish, reflective of early-late 2000s compact camera design.

Bonus: Both cameras lack viewfinders, electronic or otherwise, relying solely on the rear screen for composition.

Bottom line: For photographers who value instant framing feedback and quick menu navigation, the ELPH offers a more satisfying and uncomplicated experience.

Lens and Zoom Performance: Flexibility in Framing

Zoom range is a vital consideration in compact cameras. Here, the two models differ significantly.

• ELPH 330 HS: 24–240 mm equivalent focal length, 10x optical zoom
• SD970 IS: 37–185 mm equivalent, 5x optical zoom

This means the ELPH extends from a wide-angle 24mm start to a substantial telephoto reach. This is great for landscapes, architecture, wildlife, and travel where framing versatility is paramount.

The SD970’s range is modest by comparison, starting at 37mm, which restricts wide landscapes and group shots. Its 5x zoom ratio is more typical of compact cameras released a decade ago.

In terms of maximum aperture:

• ELPH 3.0 at wide-angle tapering to f6.9 at telephoto
• SD970 3.2 at wide moving to f5.7 at telephoto

The SD970 retains a slightly brighter tele end, but the ELPH’s broader zoom and wider starting angle make it ultimately more flexible in application.

I found the optical image stabilization in both cameras effective, especially in the ELPH, where the longer telephoto reach benefits from steadier shots in handheld situations.

Lens versatility takeaway: The ELPH 330 HS is the better all-rounder zoom camera for varied photography genres, providing you with wide-angle capability plus a long telephoto, while the SD970 is better suited for casual snapshots or shorter-range subjects.

Autofocus System: Responsiveness and Precision

Autofocus (AF) technology impacts how well a camera captures sharp images, particularly in fast-changing or low-light situations.

Both cameras use contrast-detection AF systems with 9 focus points. The ELPH 330 HS has slight functional enhancements:

• Continuous AF mode (helps track moving subjects)
• Face detection AF for better portrait focus reliability
• AF tracking capability

In contrast, the SD970 IS is limited to single AF mode; it lacks continuous AF, and its focus acquisition is slower, as I experienced in real-world testing, especially in dimmer environments.

Neither camera supports manual focus, limiting user control, but the ELPH’s improved AF algorithms make it easier to lock focus on subjects quickly and maintain it when shooting moving children, pets, or casual sports.

For wildlife and sports photography: Neither model is ideal due to slow AF and limited burst capability (ELPH 2 fps, SD970 1 fps). However, the ELPH 330 HS’s faster AF and slightly better burst performance make it the stronger choice between the two for casual action shots.

Video Capabilities: How They Stack Up

Video recording quality is of growing interest even in photography-centric cameras. The ELPH 330 HS delivers Full HD 1080p at 24fps along with HD 720p at 30fps and slower-motion options at 120fps and 240fps in lower resolutions. It uses the efficient H.264 codec, yielding smaller files and better image quality.

The SD970 IS tops out at 720p video at 30fps using Motion JPEG codec which inflates file sizes and limits quality.

Neither camera has microphone or headphone jacks, and no in-body features such as advanced image stabilization or audio controls are available. The ELPH wins on:

• Higher resolution video capture
• Better codec efficiency
• Slow-motion capability (absent on SD970)

If video is a secondary priority, the ELPH 330 HS offers more versatility and quality for casual video capturing.

Battery Life and Storage Flexibility

Battery life is a concern with small cameras often lacking grip and extended power capacity.

• ELPH 330 HS: Rated for approximately 220 shots per charge using the NB-4L battery.
• SD970 IS: Battery life unspecified by Canon’s current sources, uses the NB-5L battery (which has higher capacity by specification, but older technology).

In the field, I noticed the SD970’s battery tends to drain faster with continuous use, especially video and live view, likely due to less efficient processor and older battery chemistry. The ELPH 330 HS, while rated lower on paper, manages power better due to DIGIC 5.

Storage-wise, both cameras support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards (ELPH additionally supports SDXC), but the SD970 IS also accepts MMC/HD MMC cards which are largely obsolete.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration

Connectivity options align with their generation gaps.

• ELPH 330 HS: Has built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer, facilitating on-the-go sharing via Canon’s apps. It also includes HDMI output and USB 2.0.
• SD970 IS: Lacks wireless connectivity but includes HDMI and USB 2.0.

From a professional workflow standpoint, wireless transfer is an increasingly important convenience, and the ELPH 330 HS’s Wi-Fi gives it an edge for rapid sharing or offloading without a computer.

Shooting Genres and Real-World Use Cases

Let’s consider how each camera fares in different photographic domains, reflecting my hands-on trials and testing notes.

Portrait Photography

• ELPH 330 HS: Face detection AF is robust, with accurate eye-detection focus helping keep portraits sharp. The lens’s 24mm wide angle can create some distortion up close, but the 10x zoom lets you step back and compress perspective for flattering portraits. The aperture at f3.0 at wide angle is adequate for moderate background blur, but the small sensor limits true bokeh quality.
• SD970 IS: Also features face detection but slower AF and narrower zoom range limit framing versatility. Slightly brighter aperture in telephoto helps, but overall less consistent focus speed.

Landscape Photography

• ELPH 330 HS: Wide 24mm start ideal for sweeping vistas. DIGIC 5 processing aids dynamic range, preserving details in shadows and highlights much better than the SD970. Compactness makes it a good travel landscape companion.
• SD970 IS: 37mm minimum focal length restricts very wide compositions. Lower dynamic range means highlight and shadow clipping more frequent. Less suited for capturing the full tonal range.

Wildlife Photography

Both cameras are limited for serious wildlife photography due to modest zoom and slow burst rates. The ELPH’s 10x zoom and faster burst (2fps) are marginally better; SD970 IS's 5x zoom noticeably constrains reach.

Sports Photography

Neither camera is aimed at fast action, but the continuous AF and faster shooting speed of the ELPH 330 HS gives it a slight advantage for casual sports shots.

Street Photography

Compact size and quiet operation favor both cameras for candid street shooting. The ELPH’s wider zoom range and better low-light ISO handling improve versatility.

Macro Photography

Both cameras offer macro focus ranges: ELPH 1 cm, SD970 IS 2 cm. The ELPH’s closer focusing distance and better image stabilization enable easier macro shots handheld.

Night/Astro Photography

ELPH’s BSI CMOS sensor and better ISO performance offer improved capabilities at high ISO settings. Neither camera has bulb mode or astrophotography-specific features, but ELPH allows longer shutter speeds up to 15 seconds.

Video

ELPH’s 1080p video and slow-motion modes provide better value for casual videography. SD970 limited to 720p.

Travel Photography

Portability is comparable, but the ELPH 330 HS’s wireless transfer, longer zoom, and better image quality make it a more versatile travel companion.

Professional Use

Due to lack of RAW support, limited manual controls, and small sensors, neither camera fits professional photography needs, but the ELPH is better suited as a casual backup or compact documenter.

Durability and Build Quality: What to Expect

Neither model offers environmental sealing or ruggedized features. Both are standard plastics and metal construction common in compact cameras. Neither is waterproof or dustproof.

Price and Value: What’s the Deal?

The ELPH 330 HS remains extremely affordable on the used market (around $150-200), while the SD970 IS is often cheaper given its earlier release date and older specs. For budget-conscious buyers seeking a pocket-friendly camera with decent technical capabilities, the ELPH 330 HS offers better overall value.

Summary Scores and Genre Ratings

To synthesize our findings, I compiled overall performance ratings and genre-specific scores based on hands-on results, technical specs, and practical usage.

The ELPH 330 HS leads with better image quality, zoom, video features, and connectivity, making it the clear winner for most casual and enthusiast photographers. The SD970 IS remains a competent choice for budget-minded point-and-shoot users but reveals its age in several key categories.

Sample Images: See the Difference

Here are side-by-side sample photographs taken in identical conditions with both cameras to visualize real-world image sharpness, color accuracy, and noise control.

Canon ELPH 330 HS front Canon ELPH 330 HS screen back Canon SD970 IS screen back

Notice the richer colors, cleaner shadow details, and sharper edges in the ELPH 330 HS images compared to the SD970 IS.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

After extensive testing, I can confidently say:

• Choose the Canon ELPH 330 HS if you want:

  • A compact, lightweight camera with modern sensor technology
  • Better low-light performance and dynamic range
  • Longer zoom range and improved video recording
  • Wireless features for easy sharing
  • Versatility across many casual photography genres

• Consider the Canon SD970 IS if you:

  • Are on a tight budget and want a very simple pocket camera
  • Prefer modest zoom range and straightforward point-and-shoot simplicity
  • Primarily shoot in good daylight
  • Are okay with older video quality and no wireless connectivity

Neither will replace a DSLR or mirrorless camera for professional or specialized use, but the ELPH 330 HS provides a noticeably superior compact experience to the SD970 IS with modern usability and imaging benefits, making it my enthusiastic recommendation for everyday photographers, travelers, and families.

Thank you for joining me on this deep dive into two interesting Canon compact PowerShots. My hope is that these insights, derived from years of direct testing and comparative shooting, empower you to make an informed choice tailored to your photographic lifestyle. Happy shooting!