How we test

Pocket cameras like the ELPH 360 HS usually fail in a few known places: the lens mechanism, the battery and the screen. Our checks go there first. Every camera we sell goes through the same seven steps, in this order, and a camera that fails any step is not sold.

1. Zoom cycled ten times

We run the lens from wide to full 12x zoom and back ten times. A tired lens mechanism shows up here as a "lens error" message, grinding or a lens that stops partway.

2. Test shots at three zoom levels

We take shots at wide, middle and full zoom and look at them on a computer screen, not the camera's small screen. We're looking for dust inside the lens, dark spots, haze and soft corners.

3. Video, flash and Wi-Fi

We record a short video clip, fire the flash, and send a photo to a phone over Wi-Fi.

4. Screen, buttons and battery door

We check the screen for dead pixels and scratches, press every button and dial, and check that the battery and card door latches properly.

5. Battery run-down

We charge the battery fully and take 50 shots. A battery that runs out before that is replaced.

6. Reset and clean

We reset the camera to factory settings, wipe the memory card, and clean the body and the lens glass.

7. Logged and packed

We record the serial number against your order and pack the camera with its battery, charger, strap, case and a new 32 GB SD card.

How grades work

Grades only describe how the camera looks. Grade A looks close to new, with at most a few faint marks you'd only notice up close. Grade B has visible light scuffs or small marks on the body from normal use. On both grades the screen and lens glass are clean, and both pass all seven steps above.

About photos: the product photos on this site are Canon's images of this model, not the exact camera you will receive.