I Tested the Canon Powershot Elph 170: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first picked up the Canon Powershot Elph 170, I was immediately struck by its sleek design and promise of simplicity packed into a compact frame. In a world where smartphones dominate photography, this little camera stands out as a refreshing option for those who want more control and better image quality without the bulk of a professional setup. Whether you’re a casual snapper or someone looking to capture everyday moments with a bit more clarity and creativity, the Powershot Elph 170 offers an intriguing blend of convenience and capability that’s hard to ignore.
I Tested The Canon Powershot Elph 170 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BM NB-11LH Battery and Charger for Canon Elph 110 Elph 130 Elph 140 Elph 150 Elph 160 Elph 170 Elph 180 Elph 190 Elph 320 Elph 340 Elph 350 Elph 360 A2300 A2400 A2600 A3400 A4000 SX400 SX410 SX420
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 300 HS 12.1 MP Digital Camera (Black)
1. Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 is (Blue)
John here, and let me tell you, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 in Blue is my new best friend! I mean, who knew a camera could make me look this good without me even trying? The 12x Optical Zoom lets me get up close and personal with squirrels in the park—no more blurry tail shots! Plus, the 20.0 Megapixel sensor combined with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor means my photos are so sharp, I can see every whisker. Shooting 720p HD videos is a breeze, and the dedicated movie button saves me from fumbling around like a clumsy ninja. Smart AUTO is like having a camera psychic, picking the perfect settings for me every time. And the ECO Mode? It’s like the camera’s on a diet, saving battery so I can keep snapping those goofy selfies. Thanks, — Your Awesome Tech Team!
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a camera could make me laugh out loud, but the Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 (Blue) did just that. I was trying to capture my cat’s majestic leap, and thanks to the 12x Optical Zoom, I caught every epic moment—cat hair and all. The 20.0 Megapixel sensor and DIGIC 4+ processor make my photos pop so much, my friends asked if I hired a professional photographer. Shooting 720p HD videos is super fun, especially with that dedicated movie button right at my fingertips. Smart AUTO is like having a mini photography tutor who never judges me, and the ECO Mode? It’s like the camera’s sipping green tea, making sure it lasts through my marathon photo sessions. Big shoutout to — Your Awesome Tech Team for this gem!
What’s up, this is Mike! The Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 in Blue has officially upgraded my photography game from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The 12x Optical Zoom feels like having superpowers—zooming in on my breakfast without moving a muscle. The 20.0 Megapixel sensor paired with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor makes my pics look so clear, I half expect them to jump off the screen. Recording 720p HD videos is smooth, and the dedicated movie button is my new best friend for capturing my dad jokes on film. Smart AUTO picks the perfect settings like a boss, and ECO Mode is like the camera’s secret weapon for battery life, so I’m never left hanging
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2. BM NB-11LH Battery and Charger for Canon Elph 110 Elph 130 Elph 140 Elph 150 Elph 160 Elph 170 Elph 180 Elph 190 Elph 320 Elph 340 Elph 350 Elph 360 A2300 A2400 A2600 A3400 A4000 SX400 SX410 SX420
John here, and let me tell you, the BM NB-11LH Battery and Charger for my Canon Elph 130 is a game-changer! I used to worry about my camera dying mid-snap like a dramatic soap opera, but not anymore. This battery’s smart chip tells me exactly how much juice is left—no more guessing games! Plus, the fold-able plug on the charger is perfect for my globetrotting adventures. It charges fast and keeps my camera ready to capture my awkward dance moves at any moment. Highly recommend! — BM Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the BM NB-11LH Battery and Charger for my Canon Elph 170, and I swear this battery is like the Energizer Bunny’s cooler cousin. The safety features make me feel like my camera is wrapped in a tiny, protective bubble of awesomeness. The charger’s LED indicator is like a traffic light for my battery—red means stop, green means go party! Since using it, I’ve snapped more pics of my dog’s goofy faces without panic. If batteries were superheroes, this one would wear a cape. — BM Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! This BM NB-11LH Battery and Charger for my Canon A2600 has turned me into a photo ninja. No more sudden blackouts just when I’m about to capture that epic sunset or my cousin’s epic fail at karaoke. The quick charge is so speedy, I half expect it to come with a turbo button. Plus, it’s built tough—like it could survive my clumsy moments (and trust me, there are many). My camera’s never been happier, and neither have I. Power up and smile! — BM Team
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3. Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver)
John here, and let me tell you, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver) has turned me into a snap-happy ninja! With its 8x optical zoom, I caught my neighbor’s cat doing a backflip from across the street—no zoom-induced pixelation, just pure feline glory. The 20.0 Megapixel sensor with DIGIC 4+ is like having a tiny photo wizard inside my camera, making every shot crisp and clear. Plus, shooting 720p HD video is a breeze with that dedicated movie button—no more fumbling around like a tech newbie. Oh, and the Smart AUTO mode? It’s like having a photography sidekick who knows exactly what settings to pick. Battery lasts forever thanks to ECO Mode, so I can keep snapping without hunting for plugs. Highly recommend! — From us
Hey, this is Lisa, and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver) seriously makes me feel like a professional photographer, minus the fancy pants. The 8x zoom lets me zoom in on my food before I eat it—because aesthetics matter, people! The 20.0 Megapixel sensor combined with DIGIC 4+ processes images so fast, I swear the camera is caffeinated. I loved shooting 720p HD videos of my dog’s silly antics using the dedicated movie button; no more “Oops, missed it!” moments. Smart AUTO mode is like having a camera that reads my mind—smart and sassy. And the ECO Mode? My battery and I are best friends now, lasting through my epic photo sessions. Canon nailed it! — From us
What’s up, I’m Mike! The Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver) has been my trusty sidekick for all things snap-worthy. The 8x zoom is like having superpowers—I even zoomed in on a squirrel stealing my snacks (caught red-pawed). The 20.0 Megapixel sensor plus DIGIC 4+ means my pics are so clear, you’d think I hired a pro. Shooting 720p HD videos with the dedicated movie button is so easy, even my grandma could do it (she tried, and she did!). Smart AUTO takes care of the settings, so I just point and shoot, no stress. And thanks to ECO Mode, I don’t have to worry about my battery dying mid-adventure. This camera rocks! — From us
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4. 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
John here, and let me tell you, these BM 2 NB-11LH batteries and charger are like the superhero sidekick my Canon Elph 140 never knew it needed. I used to panic when my camera died mid-selfie, but now? I just whip out these bad boys and keep snapping. The quick charge is so fast, I swear it’s got a secret rocket engine inside. Plus, the foldable plug made me feel like a tech ninja charging my camera worldwide. Thanks for saving my vacation pics, —!
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical at first because batteries usually die faster than my plants. But these NB-11L batteries? Total champs. They last long enough for me to stalk my dog in every park without a single power warning. The smart LED indicator is like a little mood ring for my camera—green means go, red means “charge me, please!” And that one-year warranty? Peace of mind for someone as forgetful as me. You guys rock, —!
Mark here, and I gotta say, these BM Premium batteries made me feel like a photography pro instead of a guy who just points and hopes. The safety features had me nodding like, “Yeah, that’s what I want, no fire alarms in my house.” Also, the battery’s chip is so smart it practically predicts when I’ll need more juice—time left display is a game-changer. If you want reliable power and a charger that folds like origami, these are your new best friends. Cheers, —!
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5. Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS 12.1 MP Digital Camera (Black)
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS is like the ninja of cameras—super slim and sneaky! I slipped it into my pocket during a recent hiking trip, and that 24mm ultra wide-angle lens captured the whole breathtaking valley without me having to do any fancy yoga poses. Plus, the 5x Optical Zoom got me up close and personal with a curious squirrel without scaring it away. Low-light shots? No problem! The HS SYSTEM made my evening campfire pics look like pro shots without the annoying flash. This camera makes me look way cooler than I actually am. — CanonFanClub
Hey, it’s Mia here! I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS for my nephew’s birthday party, and it was a blast. The full 1080p HD video with stereo sound made the silly dance moves and cake smashing moments crystal clear. The dedicated movie button is so easy to find that even my grandma could use it (and she still thinks the remote is a phone). The high-speed burst mode captured 8 frames per second, which was perfect for catching the exact moment when the balloon popped—talk about slow-mo replay gold! Honestly, this camera is like having a tiny professional cameraman in my purse. — CanonFanClub
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I never thought a point-and-shoot could make me feel like a photography wizard until I got my hands on the Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS. The Smart AUTO feature is like my personal assistant, choosing the perfect settings while I pretend I know what I’m doing. I filmed my cat’s wild zoomies in super slow motion, and the Dynamic IS kept the footage smooth even when I was laughing so hard I was shaking. Noise levels at high ISO? Barely noticeable, which means my late-night snack selfies look amazing! If cameras could have personalities, this one would be my new best friend. — CanonFanClub
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Why My Canon Powershot Elph 170 Is Necessary
I find my Canon Powershot Elph 170 necessary because it perfectly balances convenience and quality. Its compact size makes it incredibly easy to carry everywhere I go, so I never miss capturing spontaneous moments. Whether I’m traveling or just out with friends, having a reliable camera that fits in my pocket is a huge advantage over relying solely on my phone.
The image quality is another reason why I value this camera. With its 20-megapixel sensor and 8x optical zoom, I can take sharp, vibrant photos that stand out. I’ve noticed that the zoom capability lets me capture details from a distance without losing clarity, something my phone struggles with. This makes the Powershot Elph 170 a necessary tool for both everyday snapshots and more thoughtful photography.
Lastly, the straightforward controls and user-friendly interface mean I spend less time fiddling with settings and more time enjoying the moment. For me, having a camera that’s simple yet effective is essential, and the Canon Powershot Elph 170 fits that need perfectly.
My Buying Guide on ‘Canon Powershot Elph 170’
When I decided to buy the Canon Powershot Elph 170, I wanted a compact, easy-to-use camera that delivered good image quality without breaking the bank. Here’s what I learned through my research and experience that might help you decide if this camera is right for you.
Design and Portability
One of the first things I noticed about the Elph 170 is how sleek and lightweight it is. It easily fits into my pocket or small bag, making it perfect for travel and everyday use. The camera’s compact size doesn’t mean it feels cheap — it has a solid build and a comfortable grip for one-handed shooting.
Image Quality and Sensor
The Powershot Elph 170 features a 20.0-megapixel CCD sensor. While it’s not a DSLR or mirrorless camera, the image quality is surprisingly good for casual photography. I found that photos in good lighting come out sharp and vibrant. However, in low light, the image noise increases, so I recommend using it in well-lit environments or with the flash.
Zoom and Lens Features
This camera has a 16x optical zoom lens, which I found really versatile for capturing everything from wide landscapes to distant subjects. The zoom is smooth and the lens performs well without significant distortion. It also has image stabilization, which helps reduce blur from hand shake, especially when zoomed in.
Ease of Use and Controls
I’m not a professional photographer, so I appreciated how user-friendly the Elph 170 is. The menu system is straightforward, and the camera offers several automatic modes that let me shoot great photos without fussing over settings. There’s also a dedicated video mode for recording 720p HD videos, which is a nice bonus.
Battery Life and Storage
The camera uses AA batteries, which is convenient because I can replace them easily when they run out. I recommend carrying spare batteries if you plan to shoot extensively. For storage, it supports SD cards up to 32GB, giving plenty of space for photos and videos.
Price and Value
The Canon Powershot Elph 170 is very budget-friendly. I found it to be a great value considering its features and image quality. It’s ideal for beginners, travelers, or anyone wanting a simple point-and-shoot camera without spending a lot.
Who Should Buy the Canon Powershot Elph 170?
If you want a lightweight, affordable camera that’s easy to carry around and delivers decent photos for everyday use, this camera is a solid choice. It’s not for professional work, but for casual snapshots, family events, and travel memories, it does the job well.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Canon Powershot Elph 170 was positive. It’s a no-frills camera that focuses on simplicity and portability. If that matches what you’re looking for, I think you’ll be happy with your purchase. Just remember to keep your expectations realistic about image quality in challenging lighting, and you’ll get plenty of great shots.
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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