Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 (Silver) - Compact Point-and-Shoot with 8x

Our review of the Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 finds it best suited to casual photographers who want a fuss-free, pocketable camera for everyday snapshots and family events. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of a high-resolution 20.0 megapixel sensor and the DIGIC 4+ processor, which together produce sharp, printable stills without complicated settings. Its slim, lightweight body and an 8x optical zoom make it easy to move from wide family group shots to tighter framing, while Smart AUTO and an ECO Mode keep operation simple and battery life conservative.

Key Features

• 8x Optical Zoom: The long zoom range lets users frame subjects closer without physically moving, useful for casual telephoto shots at gatherings and outdoor scenes.
• 20.0 Megapixel Sensor: High pixel count delivers detailed images that hold up for prints and cropping in post.
• DIGIC 4+ Image Processor: Processor work helps with color rendering and noise control so images look clean in typical daylight and indoor conditions.
• 720p HD Movie with Movie Button: A dedicated movie button makes it quick to capture short HD video clips without changing modes.
• Smart AUTO: The camera analyzes scenes and automatically selects settings, lowering the learning curve for users who prefer point-and-shoot simplicity.
• ECO Mode: Power-saving mode reduces energy use for longer battery life when shooting on the go.

Who It's For

The PowerShot ELPH 160 is ideal for parents, travelers, and anyone who wants a compact, dependable camera for everyday moments without the complexity of interchangeable lenses or advanced menus. Its light weight and slim profile make it convenient to carry in a bag or large pocket, and the large zoom covers most casual shooting needs.

Photographers looking for advanced low-light performance, 4K video, fast continuous shooting, or interchangeable lenses should look elsewhere; this model focuses on ease of use and value rather than professional-level features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight body makes it highly portable for travel and daily use.
• Good overall image quality from the 20.0 megapixel sensor paired with DIGIC 4+ for everyday prints and sharing.
• 8x optical zoom and a dedicated movie button add flexibility for casual telephoto shots and quick video capture.
• Smart AUTO and ECO Mode simplify shooting and help extend battery life between charges.

Cons

• 720p HD video and basic processing limit suitability for users who need higher-resolution video or advanced controls.
• Some customers report mixed results with battery life and picture quality in challenging light, so expectations should be modest for low-light performance.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 160 is a sensible, affordable compact camera for casual users who prioritize simplicity, portability, and decent still-image quality. It offers real value for everyday snapshots and short HD videos, though photographers needing high-end low-light performance or advanced video should consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this camera record long videos?
It records in 720p HD and is intended for short clips and casual video; extended recording may be limited by file size and battery life.

Is this camera easy for beginners?
Yes, Smart AUTO does most of the work and the dedicated movie button makes switching to video quick and intuitive for new users.

Does it have good zoom reach?
The 8x optical zoom provides useful reach for everyday scenes and closer framing without sacrificing image quality compared with digital enlargement.