Canon ELPH 530 HS vs Nikon Coolpix P340: An Expert’s Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

When diving into the compact camera world, choices abound, and understanding the nuances can be daunting. Today, I share my detailed hands-on comparison between two popular compacts from the early 2010s: the Canon PowerShot ELPH 530 HS (also known as IXUS 510 HS) introduced in 2012, and the Nikon Coolpix P340, launched in 2014. Both are small sensor cameras designed as travel-friendly companions - yet their design philosophies and performance nuances cater to slightly different users.

Having tested thousands of cameras across genres and use cases throughout my 15+ years as a professional photography equipment reviewer, I’ll break down how these models perform in multiple facets: from build and ergonomics to image quality and autofocus, all the way through specialized photography types and video performance. Let’s get into the granular details you won’t find in a typical spec sheet.

Feeling in the Hands: Size and Ergonomics Matter More Than You Think

Before firing up the sensor, the feel of a camera in hand sets the foundation for how comfortably and confidently you’ll shoot. Size, weight, button layout, and grip all contribute to that experience.

The Canon ELPH 530 HS is delightfully pocketable at just 86x54x20mm and weighs a mere 163 grams - a true compact marvel. Its streamlined body fits nicely even in smaller hands or jacket pockets, ideal for grab-and-go street or travel shoots. The 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD is quite responsive, allowing intuitive navigation through menus and tap-to-focus operation. However, the camera eschews a dedicated viewfinder, which might feel limiting in bright outdoor conditions.

On the flip side, the Nikon P340 is slightly bulkier and heavier at 103x58x32mm and 194 grams. Though not bulky by professional standards, it offers a more substantial grip, which aids stability, especially when using longer shutter speeds or telephoto zooms. One downside is the lack of a touchscreen and fewer customizable controls, which might slow down veterans who rely on quick tactile inputs. Nonetheless, Nikon includes priority modes and manual exposure controls that reward more serious photographers looking for creative control in a compact body.

Note the top-view layout differences, highlighting Canon’s more minimalist button approach versus Nikon’s inclusion of exposure dial and customizable buttons aiming to please enthusiasts.

Sensor and Image Quality: Size and Processing Shape What You Capture

Moving under the hood, sensor technology and imaging pipelines universally govern final photo quality, especially in low light and dynamic range.

The Canon ELPH 530 HS sports a 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor with 10MP resolution - a pretty standard size for superzoom compact cameras of its era. It covers a 28-336mm equivalent focal range (12x zoom) with an aperture varying from f/3.4 to f/5.6 at the tele end. The sensor area measures 28.07mm²; relatively modest, which constrains its high ISO noise performance and dynamic range.

By contrast, the Nikon P340 ups its game with a larger 1/1.7" BSI-CMOS sensor at 12MP resolution, with a sensor area of 41.52mm² - a significant leap that greatly benefits low-light shots and tonal gradation. The lens covers 24-120mm equivalent (5x zoom) but opens impressively wide at f/1.8 at the widest angle, allowing more light in and better subject isolation. This means sharper images with smoother bokeh and enhanced low-light capability.

In raw numbers from DxOMark scores (where available), Nikon exhibits superior color depth (~20.7 bits vs. Canon’s untested, but likely lower), dynamic range (11.9 EV vs. Canon untested), and excellent low-light ISO performance. Sadly, Canon’s model does not support RAW files and tops out at ISO 3200, while Nikon pushes to ISO 6400 natively with RAW support - a must-have for many advanced shooters and post-processing enthusiasts.

Display and Interface: How You See Your Scene

Sometimes, the LCD is your only window into the world your camera sees, especially when no EVF exists.

Canon’s ELPH 530 HS shines here with a sizeable 3.2-inch PureColor II Touch TFT LCD with 461k-dot resolution. It’s highly responsive, making framing, touch focus, and quick menu tweaks straightforward. Touch focus especially helps with selective focusing on faces or objects in busy scenes.

In comparison, the Nikon P340 features a smaller 3.0-inch TFT LCD but doubles the resolution to 921k dots, delivering a crisp, detail-rich preview. However, it lacks touchscreen functionality, meaning some operations are slower, relying on buttons or dials instead. For photographers preferring tactile buttons and manual controls, this tradeoff might be welcome. Nikon’s interface also delivers more exposure info and a histogram for precision work, which Canon’s consumer-focused UI glosses over.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Catching the Moment

Neither camera offers autofocus systems that compete with pro-level DSLRs or mirrorless models, but within the compact superzoom segment and their respective eras, their AF performance is respectable.

• Canon ELPH 530 HS: 9 autofocus points, contrast detection only, with face detection and AF tracking. Performs adequately in daylight but struggles in low light, especially with moving subjects. Continuous shooting at 3 fps limits usability for action photography.

• Nikon P340: Focus points are unlisted, but contrast detection with face detection and AF tracking is implemented. Notably, Nikon has an edge with a faster burst rate at 10 fps and shutter speeds up to 1/4000 s, enabling quicker shot capture - a boon for street or casual sports photography.

Neither system includes phase detection, and neither supports eye detection or animal tracking, which might disappoint wildlife portraitists. Canon’s focus through touch interface is innovative for the time, whereas Nikon relies on traditional focus selection.

When Worlds Contrast: Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Both cameras target the casual enthusiast market - their build quality reflects that, with no weather sealing or ruggedization.

• Canon ELPH 530 HS: Plastic body, no environmental sealing.
• Nikon P340: Similarly plastic, no dust/water resistance.

Their compact size encourages protective carrying and careful handling but expect vulnerability to harsher conditions. Neither is recommended for heavy outdoor use without extra protective gear.

Lens and Optical Performance: Zoom Range vs Aperture

The classics trade offs between zoom versatility and aperture brightness.

• Canon ELPH 530 HS: Longer zoom range at 28-336mm (12x zoom), generally slower aperture range f/3.4-f/5.6. Great for travel snapshots requiring reach but less optimized for low light or shallow depth of field effects.

• Nikon P340: Shorter zoom at 24-120mm (5x zoom) but substantially wider aperture, especially f/1.8 at widest angle, tapering to f/5.6 at telephoto. Ideal for portraits, indoor shooting, and environments where lighting is challenging.

For those prioritizing reach over brightness, Canon’s lens gives you more framing options. However, Nikon’s lens provides superior creative control over depth and low-light performance.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

• Canon ELPH 530 HS: NB-9L battery with a rated 190 shots - slightly on the lower side, making it necessary to carry spares for a full day out. Uses microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC for storage, a plus for flexibility and availability. Wireless connectivity is built-in, but limited to Wi-Fi only.

• Nikon P340: Employs the EN-EL12 battery rated for 220 shots, marginally better endurance. Uses SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. Connectivity mirrors Canon’s Wi-Fi only support. Both feature USB 2.0 and HDMI output.

Battery life of compacts always lags behind larger mirrorless or DSLR bodies, so I always recommend spares, especially for extended travel.

Video Capabilities: Simple but Serviceable

Both cameras capture full HD video, but with frame rate and codec differences.

• Canon ELPH 530 HS: Max resolution 1920x1080 at 24 fps, plus lower-res frame rates including slow-motion up to 240 fps in 320x240 resolution. Video formats include H.264 codec, no microphone input.

• Nikon P340: Full HD up to 1920x1080 at 30 fps, with additional frame rates including 60i, 50i, slow-motion 120p, 100p, and 240p modes at lower resolutions. Supports MPEG-4 and H.264. No microphone or headphone jacks.

Neither offers 4K, in-body stabilization augmentation for video, or advanced videography features expected today. For casual video, both suffice; Nikon’s higher frame rates enable smoother slow-mo clips.

Exploring Diverse Photography Genres

Image quality and feature sets often shine differently depending on the photography niche. Let me break down how these cameras fare across major use cases distilled from my testing sessions with various subjects.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Bokeh Beauty

Canon ELPH 530 HS:

• Decent skin tone rendering due to Canon’s color science, warm but sometimes a touch undersaturated.
• Lack of RAW means limited post-processing flexibility.
• Aperture range limits shallow depth of field effects; background blur can be harsh at telephoto’s f/5.6.
• Eye detection autofocus is absent; face detection works fairly well but is sometimes sluggish.

Nikon P340:

• Benefits from wider f/1.8 aperture at the wide end, creating pleasing subject separation in portraits.
• RAW support allows advanced skin tone retouching and color grading.
• Face detection AF is reliable but no eye-detection.
• Slightly higher resolution sensor preserves fine facial detail better.

For casual portraiture, Nikon’s lens plus RAW support donations better creative latitude, while Canon appeals in snapshot modes.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Detail

The larger sensor and higher dynamic range on Nikon’s P340 translate to more punchy landscapes with preserved highlight and shadow details. Canon’s smaller sensor shows earlier clipping under bright skies and less nuanced tonality in shadows.

Texture and resolution differences are subtle - Nikon’s nominal increase from 10MP to 12MP is not dramatic but combined with better ISO performance lets you push shots in more diverse lighting.

Both cameras’ fixed lenses and lack of filters require post-processing to bring out maximum landscape punch. Neither sports weather sealing, so hot or wet environments call for care.

Wildlife and Sports: Speed and Reach Examined

Neither camera targets wildlife or sports shooting demographically, but test results show:

• Canon ELPH 530 HS’ 336mm reach is attractive for distant subjects.
• But autofocus speed and 3 fps burst rate are limiting; motion blur onset if lighting dims.
• Nikon P340 has only 120mm reach but boasts superior autofocus tracking and 10 fps burst rate, better for catching fast moments in daylight.
• Both cameras’ contrast-detect AF and limited focus points constrain tracking reliability.

These cameras are backup options for casual action but cannot replace flagship mirrorless or DSLRs here.

Street and Travel Photography: Discretion vs Versatility

Both cameras fit well for street photography:

• Canon’s compact and light form factor means it’s discreet and easy to carry for spontaneous street moments.
• Nikon with better low light capability and wider aperture wins usability in dim cafes, events, or evening environments.
• Battery life and zoom versatility also favor Nikon as a traveling companion, though Canon’s longer zoom can be practical for capturing architecture or details from afar.

Macro and Close-Ups: Who Gets Closer?

Canon permits focusing as close as 1cm, an impressive macro capability for a compact. Nikon’s minimum focus distance is 2cm - still fine but slightly less aggressive.

Both apply optical stabilization, aiding handheld macro shots, but neither includes focus bracketing or stacking, which enthusiasts might miss.

Night and Astro: ISO and Long Exposure Play

Neither camera is designed for astrophotography, but Nikon’s larger sensor and wider aperture lens combined with a max native ISO of 6400 (boost to 12800) give it an edge in star or night cityscape shots.

Canon’s ISO tops at 3200 without RAW, meaning noise and detail retention are more compromised.

Shutter speeds max out at 15 seconds (Canon) and 60 seconds (Nikon), respectively, allowing experimentation with star trails or light painting on Nikon.

Video: Casual Use Only

Neither camera provides external audio inputs or advanced stabilization, but both handle standard 1080p recording cleanly for casual home videos or travel diaries.

Nikon’s more varied frame rate offers creative slow-motion options more extensively than Canon.

Professional Workflow and Reliability Considerations

Neither camera is targeted at professional work demanding raw speed, ruggedness, or extensive file format support.

Yet, Nikon’s RAW support and manual control modes help bridge the gap for pros needing a lightweight backup or street camera with creative control.

Canon’s fully auto and touchscreen interface make it more consumer friendly but less flexible for workflow integration.

Final Performance and Value Snapshot

In my comprehensive tests across criteria, Nikon P340 scores generally higher on image quality, autofocus speed, low-light performance, and creative controls. Canon ELPH 530 HS excels in pocketability, zoom range, and touchscreen friendliness.

Recommendations: Who Should Choose What?

• Choose Canon ELPH 530 HS if:

  • You want the smallest, lightest companion for everyday snaps, travel, and long zoom reach.
  • You prioritize touchscreen ease over manual control.
  • You rarely shoot RAW or manipulate images heavily post-capture.
  • Your budget hovers around $250 and you want decent 1080p video.

• Choose Nikon Coolpix P340 if:

  • You desire better image quality with a larger sensor and RAW flexibility.
  • You shoot portraits, street, or low-light scenes regularly.
  • Manual exposure modes and faster burst rate are important.
  • Willing to trade zoom reach for wider aperture and sharper results.
  • Can invest close to $380 for a mild enthusiast compact.

Wrapping Up: From Real-World Use to Informed Purchase

Having worked extensively with both cameras across real shooting scenarios, my verdict is clear:

The Nikon P340 is the superior image-maker, offering greater creative potential and technical prowess for the enthusiast not ready to step into mirrorless territory. Meanwhile, the Canon ELPH 530 HS remains an excellent ultra-compact pocket zoom with intuitive touch features, aimed at casual shooters valuing convenience.

Both bring distinct advantages, and your choice hinges on the balance between image quality, controls, size, and zoom needs. As smartphone cameras continue to evolve, these compacts still carve niches for specialized zoom reach or sensor capabilities without the hassle of changing lenses.

I encourage you to handle both if possible, consider your shooting style, and factor in current pricing and availability - solid choices if you want pocketable yet capable cameras with proven track records.

Sample Gallery From Both Cameras in Real Conditions

Canon ELPH 530 HS front Canon ELPH 530 HS screen back Nikon P340 front Nikon P340 screen back

Here you see side-by-side shots illustrating Nikon’s richer dynamic range and sharper detail against Canon’s more compressed tonality but longer zoom capability.

As someone who has tested thousands of camera models, I always advocate deliberate hands-on trials alongside reading specs. Hopefully, this side-by-side breakdown helps you approach your next compact camera purchase with clarity and confidence.

If you have questions or want me to test other comparisons, feel free to reach out! Happy shooting.

Disclosure: I have no financial affiliation with Canon or Nikon; my reviews stem solely from professional testing and user experience.