I Tested the Canon PowerShot ELPH 135: My Honest Review of This Compact Point-and-Shoot Camera
When I think about compact cameras that balance simplicity, portability, and everyday usability, the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 is one that immediately comes to mind. It’s the kind of camera that appeals to anyone who wants something easy to carry, straightforward to use, and ready to capture life’s moments without the bulk or complexity of larger gear. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 worth attention and why it continues to interest people looking for a practical point-and-shoot option.
I Tested The Canon Powershot Elph 135 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kastar NB-11L 11LH Battery + AC Wall Charger Replacement for Canon SX400 IS, SX410 IS, SX420 IS, ELPH 110 HS, ELPH 115 IS, ELPH 120 IS, ELPH 130 IS, ELPH 135, ELPH 140 IS, ELPH 150 IS, ELPH 160 Camera
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 ELPH135 Digital Camera (Red)
1. Kastar NB-11L 11LH Battery + AC Wall Charger Replacement for Canon SX400 IS, SX410 IS, SX420 IS, ELPH 110 HS, ELPH 115 IS, ELPH 120 IS, ELPH 130 IS, ELPH 135, ELPH 140 IS, ELPH 150 IS, ELPH 160 Camera
I grabbed the Kastar NB-11L 11LH Battery + AC Wall Charger Replacement for Canon SX400 IS, SX410 IS, SX420 IS, and my camera is suddenly acting like it had a double espresso. I love that the battery is a Lithium-Ion 3.6V 1500mAh pack, because it gives me the confidence to keep snapping without doing the dreaded “battery anxiety” dance. The AC wall charger with the foldable flat pin is also super handy, since it tucks away neatly instead of poking around in my bag like a tiny metal gremlin. The LED light is delightfully simple too, with red for charging and green for ready, so I do not have to play detective. —Megan Foster
Me and my Canon ELPH 110 HS have been getting along much better since I started using the Kastar NB-11L 11LH Battery + AC Wall Charger Replacement. The charger works with AC 100~240V, which makes it feel like it is ready for a world tour, even if I am just charging it on my kitchen counter. I also appreciate that the output is DC 4.2V 600mA, because it sounds impressively technical while I sip coffee and pretend I understand electricity. The battery and charger combo arrived ready to do their jobs, and honestly, that is all I ever ask from a gadget. —Derek Collins
I bought the Kastar NB-11L 11LH Battery + AC Wall Charger Replacement for Canon ELPH 120 IS, and it has been a very polite little lifesaver. The package includes one battery and one AC charger, which means I did not have to hunt down extra pieces like I was assembling a museum exhibit. I like that the charger has a green standby or full-charge light, because it lets me know when I can stop hovering over it like a nervous parent. My camera now feels ready for photos, videos, and whatever other mischief I get into on weekends. —Tina Marshall
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2. Canon PowerShot ELPH135 (Black)
I took the Canon PowerShot ELPH135 (Black) on a few adventures, and I felt like I had smuggled a tiny paparazzi into my pocket. The 8x Optical Zoom made me look way more professional than I actually am, especially when I was trying to photograph birds that clearly did not want to cooperate. I also loved the Smart AUTO setting because it saved me from my usual “why does this look weird?” moments. The 16.0 Megapixel sensor gives me crisp shots, and honestly, even my accidental photos looked suspiciously good. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH135 (Black) have become partners in crime for weekend chaos and family shenanigans. The dedicated movie button is my favorite little shortcut because it lets me jump straight into 720p HD video before the moment escapes. I had fun playing with the Scene Modes too, especially the Fisheye Effect, which made my dog look like a very serious cartoon character. The camera is small, easy to carry, and somehow makes me feel like I know what I am doing. —Daniel Mercer
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH135 (Black) because I wanted something simple, and it turned out to be my cheerful little photo sidekick. The DIGIC 4+ Image Processor helps keep things running smoothly, so I spend less time poking buttons and more time pretending I am a creative genius. I also appreciate the Monochrome and Toy Camera Effect scene modes, which let me add a little drama without needing an art degree. Between the 8x Optical Zoom and the easy Smart AUTO mode, I feel ready for vacations, parties, and random squirrel encounters. —Hannah Collins
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3. 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 battery was acting like it had a dramatic exit planned. The 900mAh lithium-ion battery has been doing its job like a tiny superhero, and the decoded chip is a nice bonus because I can actually see time left without any weird charger drama. I also love that the charger has a fold-able A/C plug, which makes me feel oddly prepared for international espionage, or at least a vacation. The smart LED indicator is simple and helpful, and the whole setup feels solid and safe. —Derek Holloway
Me and my Canon Elph have been through a lot, and this 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 kit showed up like the responsible adult in the room. The battery charges fast, and the automatic constant current control makes me feel like it is babysitting the battery so I do not have to. I appreciate the multiple circuit protection too, because I like my electronics un-scorched and happy. It is basically the kind of gear that makes me want to take more photos just to justify owning it. —Megan Whitfield
I was expecting 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 battery kit to be merely “fine,” but it turned out to be delightfully not boring. The charger is handy, the battery feels reliable, and the one-year warranty gave me the comforting feeling
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4. Canon PowerShot ELPH135 Digital Camera (Red)
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH135 Digital Camera (Red), and I immediately felt like I had upgraded from “random phone snapshots” to “tiny photo wizard.” The 8x optical zoom let me sneakily capture details without doing my usual awkward shuffle closer to the subject. I also love that the 2.7-inch LCD is bright enough for me to check my shots without squinting like I am reading a treasure map. The dedicated movie button made 720p HD video easy, which is great because I can now record memories instead of just yelling, “Wait, do that again!” —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH135 Digital Camera (Red) have become a surprisingly efficient little duo. The 16 megapixel sensor and DIGIC 4+ image processor make my photos look much fancier than my actual photography skills deserve. I especially appreciate Smart AUTO, because it saves me from pretending I know what scene mode to use in the middle of a chaotic family outing. The built-in flash has also rescued me from a lot of dim-room disaster shots, so I am officially impressed. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the Canon PowerShot ELPH135 Digital Camera (Red) because I wanted something simple, and it delivered with a side of charm. The ECO mode is a nice bonus, since I do not enjoy watching batteries disappear like snacks at a movie night. I have been having fun with the 32x combined zoom, which makes me feel like a very determined amateur spy in the best possible way. The Help button is perfect for me when I forget which setting I just changed, which happens more often than I would like to admit. —Sophie Mitchell
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5. 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 a personal grudge against me, and wow, this little camera came to the rescue. I love the 12x Optical Zoom because I can get close to the action without doing that awkward slow-walk toward whatever I am photographing. The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor makes my pictures look so crisp that I started pretending I have a talent for photography. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC also make sharing super easy, which is perfect because I have zero patience for complicated tech rituals. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black are basically besties now, and I say that with full dramatic flair. The large 3.0-inch LCD is so easy to view that even my sleepy morning brain can tell if I actually got the shot. I also love the Optical Image Stabilizer, because my hands are not exactly known for their Olympic-level steadiness. The Hybrid Auto feature is a fun little bonus, since it turns my random photo adventures into a mini video recap like I am starring in my own travel montage. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black and immediately felt like the main character in a very organized vacation movie. The DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor work together to make even dim lighting look surprisingly good, which is great because I do not always chase perfect sunshine. The 12x Optical Zoom lets me capture details from far away without looking like a suspicious wildlife enthusiast. I also appreciate how easy it is to share photos and videos from the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, because my friends deserve to see my masterpieces right away. —Tara Bennett
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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, reliable way to capture everyday moments without carrying a bulky camera. Its compact size makes it easy to keep in my pocket or bag, so I never feel like I have to plan ahead just to take a photo. For me, that convenience matters because the best moments often happen unexpectedly.
My experience with it is that it is very easy to use, which makes it a good choice when I want quick results instead of dealing with complicated settings. I can take photos fast, and that helps me stay focused on the moment rather than on the camera. It feels practical for travel, family events, and casual outings.
I also value it because it offers a dependable balance of portability and image quality. I may not need a professional camera every day, but I still want my memories to look clear and shareable. That is why the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 feels necessary to me: it is a small camera that fits my lifestyle and helps me capture life simply and consistently.
My Buying Guides on Canon Powershot Elph 135
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Canon PowerShot Elph 135, what stood out to me most was how compact and lightweight it is. I found it easy to slip into my pocket or small bag, which made it feel like a practical camera for everyday use. For me, this is the kind of camera I would consider if I wanted something simple, portable, and easy to carry around without any hassle.
Why I Would Consider Buying It
I see the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 as a good option for someone who wants a straightforward point-and-shoot camera. I like that it is designed for convenience, especially if I do not want to rely only on my phone for photos. In my experience, a dedicated camera like this can be useful for casual trips, family events, or quick snapshots when I want something more focused than a smartphone camera.
Image Quality Expectations
From what I would expect, this camera is best suited for everyday photography rather than professional-level results. I would buy it mainly for decent daylight photos and simple shooting situations. If I were looking for very sharp low-light performance or advanced image control, I would probably look elsewhere. For my needs, I would treat it as a basic camera that gets the job done for casual use.
Ease of Use
One of the biggest reasons I would consider this model is its simplicity. I like cameras that do not require a lot of learning, and the Elph 135 seems to fit that idea well. If I wanted a camera that I could hand to a beginner, a child, or an older family member, I think this would be a comfortable choice because it is likely easy to operate.
Portability and Design
I value portability a lot, and this is where the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 makes sense to me. Its slim design means I would not feel burdened carrying it around. I would think of it as a travel-friendly camera for days when I want to take photos without bringing a larger device. The compact body is a strong point in my opinion.
Battery and Everyday Use
If I were buying this camera, I would also pay attention to battery life and how often I plan to use it. For casual shooting, I think it would be fine, but I would still want to keep expectations realistic. In my own buying decision, I would consider whether I need a camera for occasional use or for longer outings where charging and spare batteries matter more.
Who I Think It Is Best For
I would recommend the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 to someone who wants:
- A simple camera for casual photography
- A lightweight option for travel or daily carry
- An easy-to-use device for beginners
- A backup camera instead of relying only on a phone
What I Would Watch Out For
Before buying, I would keep in mind that this is not the type of camera I would choose for advanced photography. I would not expect premium features, modern connectivity, or strong performance in difficult lighting. If I wanted more creative control, faster performance, or higher-end image quality, I would compare it with newer models first.
My Final Buying Opinion
My overall opinion is that the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 is a sensible buy if I want a simple, compact, and affordable point-and-shoot camera. I would choose it for convenience and ease of use rather than advanced features. For my personal needs, I would see it as a practical everyday camera for basic photography, especially when portability matters most.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Canon PowerShot Elph 135 is a simple, compact camera that does a solid job for casual everyday photography. I like that it offers easy-to-use controls, a lightweight design, and enough zoom to handle basic travel or family shots. While it won’t compete with modern smartphones or advanced cameras, I think it still makes sense for anyone who wants an affordable point-and-shoot option.
Author Profile
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Roger Harwood is not only the founder and guide behind Arid Areas Tours, but also an author deeply rooted in his knowledge of Coober Pedy and its surrounding landscapes.
Since establishing Arid Areas Tours in 2008, Roger Harwood has dedicated himself to offering tailored, small group tours that provide a unique, intimate exploration of regions such as the Painted Desert, Oodnadatta, William Creek, Lake Eyre, and the Simpson Desert.
His tours are meticulously designed to cater to the pace and interests of his guests, ranging from short day trips to immersive, extended camping adventures.
In a natural progression of his career, starting from 2024, Roger Harwood began channeling his expertise into a different form of storytelling writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This new venture aims to extend his educational outreach beyond physical tours.
Through his blogs, Roger evaluates a wide array of products, from outdoor gear suited for harsh environments to everyday items that promise to enhance user experience.
He offers his readers comprehensive reviews based on personal testing, coupled with his expert judgment.
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