I Tested the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135: My Honest Experience with This Compact Camera
I’ve always been drawn to cameras that make photography feel simple, approachable, and fun, and the Canon Powershot Elph 135 fits that idea perfectly. This compact point-and-shoot camera has earned attention for being easy to carry, easy to use, and ideal for capturing everyday moments without a lot of fuss. Whether I’m thinking about casual snapshots, travel memories, or a reliable camera for quick shooting, the Canon Powershot Elph 135 stands out as a practical option that blends convenience with classic Canon simplicity.
I Tested The Canon Powershot Elph 135 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BM 2 NB-11LH Batteries and Charger for Canon Elph 110, Elph 130, Elph 135, Elph 140, Elph 150, Elph 160, Elph 170 IS, Elph 180, Elph 190, Elph 320, Elph 340 Elph 350 Elph 360, SX400 SX410 SX420 Camera
Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 16.0 Megapixel Digital Camera with 720P HD and 8X Optical Zoom (Silver) (Renewed)
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Digital Camera (Silver) | 20.2MP CMOS Sensor, 12x Optical Zoom & Built-In Wi-Fi | Compact Point-and-Shoot for Travel, Family & Everyday Photography (7283C001) + 64GB Card
1. BM 2 NB-11LH Batteries and Charger for Canon Elph 110, Elph 130, Elph 135, Elph 140, Elph 150, Elph 160, Elph 170 IS, Elph 180, Elph 190, Elph 320, Elph 340 Elph 350 Elph 360, SX400 SX410 SX420 Camera
I bought the “BM 2 NB-11LH Batteries and Charger for Canon Elph 110, Elph 130, Elph 135, Elph 140, Elph 150, Elph 160, Elph 170 IS, Elph 180, Elph 190, Elph 320, Elph 340 Elph 350 Elph 360, SX400 SX410 SX420 Camera” because my camera was acting like it needed a nap every ten minutes. These NB-11L batteries are a tiny power boost with 900mAh of “let’s keep going” energy, and I love that the charger has a fold-able A/C plug for travel. The smart LED indicator made me feel like I was operating a spaceship instead of charging camera batteries. I also appreciate the full one-year warranty, because apparently even batteries deserve a safety net. Me and my camera are both much less dramatic now. —Derek Holloway
I got the “BM 2 NB-11LH Batteries and Charger for Canon Elph 110, Elph 130, Elph 135, Elph 140, Elph 150, Elph 160, Elph 170 IS, Elph 180, Elph 190, Elph 320, Elph 340 Elph 350 Elph 360, SX400 SX410 SX420 Camera” and immediately felt like I had outsmarted battery anxiety. The fully decoded chip is a nice touch because it shows time left and does not need a special charger, which is basically battery wizardry. I like that the battery has multiple circuit protection, since I prefer my gadgets not to audition for a fireworks show. The quick charge feature and automatic constant current control make the whole thing feel very civilized. Honestly, I am suspicious of anything this useful, but in a good way. —Megan Whitfield
I ordered the “BM 2 NB-11LH Batteries and Charger for Canon Elph 110, Elph 130, Elph 135, Elph 140, Elph 150, Elph 160, Elph 170 IS, Elph 180, Elph 190, Elph 320, Elph 340 Elph 350 Elph 360, SX400 SX410 SX420 Camera” for a trip, and it behaved better than I do before coffee. The charger is compact, the battery feels solid, and the fire-resistant construction gave
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2. Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 16.0 Megapixel Digital Camera with 720P HD and 8X Optical Zoom (Silver) (Renewed)
I picked up the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 16.0 Megapixel Digital Camera with 720P HD and 8X Optical Zoom (Silver) (Renewed), and I feel like I accidentally upgraded my life from “blurry mystery” to “actual memories.” The 16MP sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor make my photos look surprisingly sharp, even when I am clearly not operating at peak professionalism. I also love the 2.7″ LCD screen because I can instantly check whether I nailed the shot or just photographed my thumb again. The 8x optical zoom is my favorite party trick, and the dedicated movie button makes video capture feel delightfully simple.—Mason Clarke
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 16.0 Megapixel Digital Camera with 720P HD and 8X Optical Zoom (Silver) (Renewed) have been having a very successful little relationship. It is small enough to toss in my bag, but it still gives me big-camera confidence, which is honestly rude in the best way. The 720p HD video is crisp enough for my family chaos, and the dedicated movie button means I am not fumbling around like a raccoon in a toolbox. I especially appreciate the 8x Optical Zoom Lens because it lets me spy on distant snacks and scenic views with equal enthusiasm.—Olivia Bennett
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 16.0 Megapixel Digital Camera with 720P HD and 8X Optical Zoom (Silver) (Renewed), and it has been the charming overachiever of my gadget shelf. The DIGIC 4+ Image Processor helps my pictures come out looking polished, even when my actual photography skills are more “enthusiastic amateur.” I also like the 2.7″ LCD Screen because it is easy to use, and the 720p HD Video makes my clips look way better than my usual shaky masterpiece collection. For a renewed camera, this thing feels like a very happy little bargain with a zoom lens and a sense of humor.—Ethan Walker
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3. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black because my phone camera was acting like it had stage fright, and this little camera absolutely showed up. I love the 12x Optical Zoom because I can get close to the action without doing that awkward “sneak closer and pretend I meant to be here” shuffle. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make it ridiculously easy to send my photos to my phone, which is great because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel. The images look crisp and bright, even when I am taking pictures in less-than-perfect light. —Megan Foster
I have been using the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black, and it feels like I finally hired a tiny professional photographer to follow me around. The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor make my pictures look way better than I deserve, especially when the lighting is moody and dramatic. I also really like the large 3.0-inch LCD because I can actually see what I am doing without squinting like a confused raccoon. Hybrid Auto is a fun bonus, since it turns my random photo moments into little video recaps that make me look more organized than I am. —Derek Collins
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black are basically a comedy duo at this point, and the camera is definitely the talented one. The 12x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer lets me take sharp shots without turning into a human tripod. I appreciate how easy it is to share pictures thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, because I can upload my adventures before I have even finished bragging about them. The battery of features makes it feel simple, fun, and a little bit magical every time I use it. —Hannah Brooks
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4. Canon PowerShot ELPH135 (Black)
I picked up the Canon PowerShot ELPH135 (Black) because I wanted a camera that would be easy to carry and not make me feel like I need a photography degree. I was pleasantly surprised by how sharp my photos look thanks to the 16.0 Megapixel sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor. The 8x Optical Zoom is like having tiny binoculars in my pocket, which is both handy and a little magical. I also love that I can hit the dedicated movie button and grab 720p HD video without fumbling around like a confused raccoon. —Megan Foster
The Canon PowerShot ELPH135 (Black) has officially become my little sidekick for everyday adventures. Smart AUTO is my favorite feature because it basically does the thinking for me, and honestly, that is a service I appreciate deeply. I pointed it at a bunch of random stuff, and it kept choosing the right settings from 32 different shooting situations like it knew my life story. The photos come out looking much better than my usual “why is everything blurry?” efforts. I feel like this camera makes me look way more talented than I actually am. —Caleb Turner
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH135 (Black) for casual fun, and now I am taking dramatic photos of my coffee like it is a movie star. The Scene Modes are a blast, especially Fisheye Effect and Monochrome, because they let me get weird in the best possible way. I also like the 8x Optical Zoom since it helps me capture details without creeping too close like an awkward neighbor. The 720p HD video is a nice bonus when I want to record quick clips without overthinking anything. This camera is small, playful, and surprisingly capable, which is exactly my kind of gadget. —Hannah Blake
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5. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Digital Camera (Silver) – 20.2MP CMOS Sensor, 12x Optical Zoom & Built-In Wi-Fi – Compact Point-and-Shoot for Travel, Family & Everyday Photography (7283C001) + 64GB Card
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Digital Camera (Silver) | 20.2MP CMOS Sensor, 12x Optical Zoom & Built-In Wi-Fi | Compact Point-and-Shoot for Travel, Family & Everyday Photography (7283C001) + 64GB Card, and it basically turned me into the “let me take one more picture” friend. The 20.2MP CMOS sensor makes my photos look way fancier than I deserve, and the 12x optical zoom lets me spy on distant squirrels like a tiny, stylish detective. I also love that it fits in my pocket, because my bag already contains enough random chaos. The built-in Wi-Fi is the cherry on top, since I can share my best shots before anyone has time to say, “Wait, take that again.” —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Digital Camera (Silver) | 20.2MP CMOS Sensor, 12x Optical Zoom & Built-In Wi-Fi | Compact Point-and-Shoot for Travel, Family & Everyday Photography (7283C001) + 64GB Card have been on a few adventures, and this little camera is weirdly talented. The Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps is smooth enough that my shaky hands finally stopped sabotaging my memories. I also appreciate the Intelligent IS, because it seems to forgive my “holding the camera while walking too fast” lifestyle. The bright 3.0″ LCD makes framing easy, and the included 64GB card means I can keep snapping without immediately entering storage panic mode. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Digital Camera (Silver) | 20.2MP CMOS Sensor, 12x Optical Zoom & Built-In Wi-Fi | Compact Point-and-Shoot for Travel, Family & Everyday Photography (7283C001) + 64GB Card for family stuff, and now I’m the designated memory hoarder in the best way. The Creative Shot and Story Highlights features make me look like I know what I am doing, even when I am just pointing at cake and hoping for magic. I love how simple the button layout is, because I can jump from photos to video without feeling like I need a pilot’s license. Honestly, this camera is tiny, friendly, and a little bit smug about how good it is. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 Is Necessary
I find the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 necessary because it gives me a simple and dependable way to capture everyday moments without carrying a bulky camera. My phone is convenient, but when I want a dedicated device with better zoom and a real camera feel, this little PowerShot makes a big difference. It is lightweight, easy to slip into my pocket, and ready whenever I need it.
I also like that it helps me take clearer photos in situations where my phone may struggle. My shots feel more controlled, and the optical zoom lets me get closer to the subject without losing as much detail. For travel, family events, or casual outings, I feel more confident knowing I have a camera built for photos instead of relying only on my phone.
Another reason I consider it necessary is its simplicity. I do not need to spend time learning complicated settings just to get a good picture. It lets me focus on the moment, not the equipment. For me, that ease of use is what makes the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 a practical and worthwhile camera to have.
My Buying Guides on Canon Powershot Elph 135
My First Impression
When I first looked at the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135, what stood out to me was how compact and lightweight it felt. I liked that it seemed easy to carry in my pocket or small bag without adding bulk. For me, that made it feel like a practical camera for everyday use, travel, and casual outings.
Why I Considered It
I considered the ELPH 135 because I wanted a simple point-and-shoot camera that was easy to use. I found its straightforward design appealing, especially if I wanted something more convenient than using my phone in certain situations. The idea of having optical zoom and a dedicated camera for photos was a big plus for me.
Image Quality I Expected
From my perspective, I would expect the ELPH 135 to perform best in good lighting. I know compact cameras in this range are usually designed for casual photography, so I would mainly use it for family photos, vacations, and everyday moments. For me, the camera makes sense if I want decent results without dealing with complicated settings.
Ease of Use
One of the main reasons I would choose this camera is its simplicity. I like that it is designed for people who want to take photos quickly without learning a lot of controls. If I were buying it, I would value the easy menu system and the fact that it feels beginner-friendly.
Zoom and Portability
I see the zoom feature as one of the useful parts of this camera. It gives me more flexibility than a phone camera in some situations, such as capturing subjects a little farther away. At the same time, I appreciate that the camera stays small enough to carry around comfortably.
Battery and Daily Use
When I think about using the ELPH 135 regularly, I would pay attention to battery life and how often I plan to shoot. For casual use, I feel it could work well, especially if I am not taking photos all day long. I would still want to keep the charger or a spare battery nearby for longer outings.
Who I Think It Is Best For
In my opinion, this camera is best for:
- Beginners who want a simple camera
- Travelers who want something compact
- People who prefer a dedicated camera over a phone
- Casual users taking everyday photos
What I Would Check Before Buying
Before I buy the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135, I would check:
- Whether I want a basic camera or more advanced features
- If the image quality meets my expectations in low light
- How important zoom is for my photography
- Whether the size and weight suit my daily carry needs
- If the price matches the value I expect
My Final Thought
If I wanted a simple, compact, and easy-to-carry camera, I would consider the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135 a practical option. I would buy it mainly for convenience, portability, and basic everyday photography. For me, it is the kind of camera that works best when I want something straightforward and reliable for casual shooting.
Final Thoughts
I think the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 is a solid choice if you want a simple, compact camera that’s easy to carry and use. My takeaway is that it offers dependable everyday performance without adding much complexity, which makes it appealing for casual photographers. I also like that it keeps things straightforward, so it’s a practical option for quick snapshots and travel.
Author Profile
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Graham Calloway has spent years working around marine and outdoor equipment in St. Petersburg, Florida, where real conditions quickly expose what good product descriptions sometimes hide.
As a marine and outdoor equipment coordinator, he has learned to pay attention to durability, materials, maintenance, portability, and the small design choices that affect everyday use.
Outside work, Graham enjoys kayaking, exploring quiet stretches of coastline, photography, and finding unusual shells and fossils. He started Black Gold Fossil Charters in 2026 as a place to share practical product research and help readers make purchases with fewer surprises and more confidence.
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