Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A: Good Camera, but Is $380 Too Much?

The quick verdict

I liked the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A’s photos, pocket size, and useful 12x optical zoom. I also found myself using it more in the months after my first review.

The price was my problem. At roughly $380 during my test, I rated it C tier. I would consider it when I specifically wanted a new pocket camera with a long zoom, but compare alternatives before paying that much.

Pocket size and 12x optical zoom

The zoom lets you frame distant subjects without relying only on a digital crop. That gives the ELPH a clear practical use beyond the fixed lens on a basic toy camera.

The small body also made it easy for me to bring along. My criticism of the price does not mean I disliked using the camera; I kept finding reasons to carry it.

Good photos from a conventional compact

I liked the still photos I captured. Canon lists a 20.2MP CMOS sensor for the ELPH 360 HS A, and the camera gave me more useful results than the novelty cameras in the comparison.

I would decide based on the photo examples, zoom, and size together. A pixel count alone does not tell you whether the whole camera is worth its asking price.

Compare the price with other options

The roughly $380 figure is the price discussed in my test, rather than a current quote. At that cost, the camera felt expensive for what I was getting.

• Compare the KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 if you want a simpler compact and do not need the same zoom reach.
• Browse budget used DSLRs if size matters less and you want interchangeable lenses. Include a lens and accessories in that comparison.

A DSLR is a much larger setup, so a lower body price does not automatically make it a better choice for your pocket. Compare cameras that fit how you actually plan to use them.

When the ELPH is worth considering

It makes the most sense if the combination of new condition, small size, and optical zoom is difficult for you to replace. Check the exact A model, included battery and charging equipment, and seller terms.

Check the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A price. Compare the current asking price with the alternatives above.

My verdict

The ELPH 360 HS A was a good camera at a price I found hard to defend. I would consider it for its pocket size and zoom if the current total cost made sense. At the price in my test, it stays in C tier.