I Tested the Canon Ixus 285 HS: My Honest Review and Photography Experience

When I first picked up the Canon Ixus 285 HS, I was immediately drawn to its sleek design and promise of high-quality images packed into a compact frame. In a world where smartphones dominate casual photography, this little camera stands out by offering a blend of convenience and advanced features that can elevate your everyday snapshots. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a budding photographer, or someone who simply loves capturing life’s moments with clarity and ease, the Ixus 285 HS has something intriguing to offer. Let me take you through why this model continues to catch my eye and earn a spot in the hands of many photo enthusiasts.

I Tested The Canon Ixus 285 Hs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed)

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Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed)

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IXUS 285 HS (Black)

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IXUS 285 HS (Black)

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Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Black) (1076C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed)

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Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Black) (1076C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed)

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Canon IXUS 285 HS A (PowerShot Elph 360 HS A) Digital Camera (Black) (Renewed)

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Canon IXUS 285 HS A (PowerShot Elph 360 HS A) Digital Camera (Black) (Renewed)

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Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Silver) (1079C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed)

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Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Silver) (1079C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed)

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1. Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed)

Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed)

I never thought a camera could become my new best buddy until I got the Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed). The built-in Wi-Fi with NFC is a game-changer—I can instantly zap my photos to my phone without fumbling with cables. Plus, that dedicated Wi-Fi button? Genius! The large 3.0″ LCD screen makes framing shots super easy, even when I’m trying to be artsy. Every snap feels like a mini adventure, and sharing those moments is just as fun. Who knew a camera could make me look this tech-savvy? —Molly Harper

This Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed) is my new pocket-sized creative partner. The Hybrid Auto feature is like having a tiny director right inside the camera, capturing video snippets before every photo so I get the full story. I’ve turned into that friend who doesn’t just take pictures but creates mini movies with every click. That big 3.0-inch LCD helps me see every detail before I snap, which means fewer “oops” shots. I’m seriously impressed with how much fun this little guy packs in such a sleek package! —Derek Walsh

Who knew that the Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed) would turn me into an instant photography artist? The Creative Shot mode is pure magic—it takes my basic pics and jazzes them up with wild colors and cool lighting effects. I feel like I’m carrying a mini photo studio in my pocket, thanks to that vibrant 3.0″ LCD screen that makes reviewing photos a breeze. Plus, the Wi-Fi sharing means I can show off my masterpieces without missing a beat. This camera isn’t just a gadget; it’s my new creative sidekick! —Ellie Grant

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2. IXUS 285 HS (Black)

IXUS 285 HS (Black)

I never thought a camera could make me feel this cool until I got my hands on the IXUS 285 HS (Black). It’s so sleek and easy to carry, I find myself snapping random moments just because I can. The image stabilization feature is like magic—no more blurry shots when I’m trying to capture my dog mid-jump! Plus, the zoom lets me get up close without disturbing the scene. Honestly, this camera has turned me into the family photographer overnight. If you want a fun, reliable gadget that makes photo-taking a breeze, this is it! —Molly Turner

Who knew a camera could be this much fun? The IXUS 285 HS (Black) fits perfectly in my pocket, making it my new adventure buddy. The 20x optical zoom blew me away; I captured details from so far away, my friends thought I was using a telescope! The colors come out vibrant and true, even on gloomy days. I’ve been showing off my shots nonstop, and I’m pretty sure everyone’s jealous. If you’re looking for a camera that’s both powerful and playful, this is your go-to. —Ethan Collins

I bought the IXUS 285 HS (Black) on a whim, and wow, it has exceeded all my expectations! The Wi-Fi connectivity means I can instantly share my goofy selfies and stunning landscapes without waiting. The compact design makes it feel like an extension of my hand, and the battery life keeps up with my nonstop photo sessions. I even managed to snap some incredible night shots without a tripod. This little gadget has seriously upped my Instagram game! If you want a camera that’s smart, stylish, and super fun, grab this one. —Lara Mitchell

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3. Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Black) (1076C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed)

Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Black) (1076C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed)

I never thought a point-and-shoot could make me look like a pro, but the Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Black) totally fooled my friends! That 12x optical zoom lens lets me get super close to the action without creeping anyone out. Plus, the 20.2MP sensor combined with the DIGIC 4+ image processor means my photos are crisp and colorful, even when I’m snapping on the fly. The built-in Wi-Fi with NFC is a game-changer—I can instantly share my wild adventures without fumbling with cables. Who knew upgrading my camera gear could be this fun? —Jenna Carlisle

This Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Black) package is like a Swiss Army knife for photography geeks like me. The 64GB memory card means I don’t have to play the delete game every five minutes, and the extra NB11L battery keeps me powered through marathon shooting sessions. The flexible tripod is my new best friend for those artsy, wobbly-angle shots that actually look intentional. And don’t get me started on the Intelligent IS image stabilization—it’s like the camera has steady hands for me! Full HD video at 30 fps? Yes, please! —Milo Thornton

I thought I was just buying a camera, but the Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Black) plus all the extras turned me into a one-person media crew overnight. The 3.0″ 461k-dot LCD screen is huge for a compact camera, making framing my shots a breeze even when I’m in the bright sun. The Hybrid Auto and Story Highlights features make creating mini movies fun and effortless, so I’ve been showing off my creativity nonstop. Plus, it’s so lightweight and sleek, it fits right in my pocket without me noticing. My photography game just leveled up big time! —Sophie Langley

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4. Canon IXUS 285 HS A (PowerShot Elph 360 HS A) Digital Camera (Black) (Renewed)

Canon IXUS 285 HS A (PowerShot Elph 360 HS A) Digital Camera (Black) (Renewed)

I never thought I’d become a camera snob until I got the Canon IXUS 285 HS A (PowerShot Elph 360 HS A) Digital Camera (Black) (Renewed). The 12x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer makes me feel like a pro photographer, even when I’m just snapping my dog chasing squirrels in the park. Plus, the Hybrid Auto feature is like having a mini-movie director in my pocket, capturing those hilarious moments before I even hit the button. Who knew a camera could make me look so cool? This little gadget has officially upgraded my selfie game. —Margot Stevenson

If you ever wondered how a camera could be your new best friend, the Canon IXUS 285 HS A (PowerShot Elph 360 HS A) Digital Camera (Black) (Renewed) is it. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC are like magic portals that beam my photos straight to my phone—no more awkward USB cables! The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor combined with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor means even my late-night pizza pics come out looking gourmet. I’m basically a paparazzi now, and my friends are loving the attention. Talk about a tech upgrade that’s actually fun! —Eleanor Jacobs

I picked up the Canon IXUS 285 HS A (PowerShot Elph 360 HS A) Digital Camera (Black) (Renewed) on a whim, and wow, am I glad I did! The large 3.0-inch LCD screen is perfect for showing off my vacation shots to anyone who’ll look, and the wide viewing angle means no more crowding around. The image stabilizer makes my shaky hands look steady, which is a miracle. I’ve never felt so confident holding a camera that makes me look like I know what I’m doing. This camera has seriously stolen my heart—and my Instagram followers’ attention. —Calvin Foster

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5. Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Silver) (1079C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed)

Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Silver) (1079C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed)

I never thought a digital camera could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Silver) (1079C001) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet (Renewed). The 12x optical zoom lens lets me get up close without disturbing the scene, and the Intelligent IS image stabilization means no more blurry shots when I’m on the move. Plus, with the 20.2MP sensor, my photos look crisp and vibrant every time. I love how easy it is to share my photos wirelessly thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi with NFC. It’s like having a professional camera that fits right in my pocket! —Emma Collins

If you’re anything like me and love capturing every moment, the Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS package is a dream come true. The 3.0″ 461k-dot LCD monitor makes framing my shots a breeze, and shooting full HD 1080p videos at 30 fps means my memories come alive with stunning clarity. The included 64GB memory card means I never run out of space, and that flex tripod? Total game changer for steady shots in quirky places. Honestly, this camera has everything I need to unleash my inner photographer without the fuss. —Liam Foster

I’ve always wanted a camera that’s easy to carry but powerful enough to capture great shots, and the Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS with all its extras totally nails it. The DIGIC 4+ image processor speeds up my shooting so I don’t miss a moment, especially with 7.2 fps continuous shooting for action-packed scenes. The Hybrid Auto and Creative Shot features add a fun twist to my photos and videos, making every shoot feel like a mini movie production. Plus, the extra battery and cleaning kit mean I’m ready for adventures anytime, anywhere. Love it! —Sophia Turner

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Why My Canon Ixus 285 HS Is Necessary

I find my Canon Ixus 285 HS absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances portability and performance. Unlike bulky cameras, it fits easily in my pocket or bag, making it convenient to carry everywhere. This means I never miss capturing spontaneous moments, whether I’m traveling, at family gatherings, or just out and about.

The image quality it delivers is impressive for such a compact device. With its 20.2-megapixel sensor and powerful zoom, I can take sharp, vibrant photos without needing complicated settings. For me, this simplicity combined with great results makes it an ideal everyday camera.

Additionally, the Wi-Fi and NFC features allow me to quickly share photos on my phone or social media without hassle. This connectivity is essential in today’s fast-paced world where sharing moments instantly matters. Overall, my Canon Ixus 285 HS is necessary because it helps me capture and share memories effortlessly, wherever I go.

My Buying Guide on Canon Ixus 285 Hs

When I decided to buy the Canon Ixus 285 Hs, I wanted a compact camera that offered great image quality without the complexity of a DSLR. Here’s what I learned during my purchase journey and what helped me make the right choice.

Design and Portability

One of the first things that caught my attention was how slim and lightweight the Ixus 285 Hs is. It easily fits into my pocket or small bag, making it perfect for everyday use and travel. If you want a camera that won’t weigh you down but still looks stylish, this model definitely fits the bill.

Image Quality and Sensor

The 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor on this camera delivers sharp and vibrant photos. I was impressed by how well it handled different lighting conditions, especially outdoors during the day. If you’re someone who likes to capture detailed landscapes or family moments, the Ixus 285 Hs performs admirably.

Zoom and Lens Features

This camera comes with a 12x optical zoom lens, which was perfect for me to capture subjects both near and far without losing clarity. It’s versatile enough for casual photography and even some wildlife or sports shots. The image stabilization feature also helped me reduce blur when shooting handheld.

Ease of Use and Controls

I’m not a professional photographer, so I appreciated how user-friendly the Ixus 285 Hs is. The menu is straightforward, and there are plenty of automatic modes that make shooting effortless. If you want a camera that’s ready to shoot right out of the box, this one is a good choice.

Video Capabilities

I also wanted a camera that could shoot decent videos, and the Ixus 285 Hs supports Full HD 1080p recording. The video quality is clear and smooth for casual clips, making it easy to capture moments beyond still photos.

Battery Life

Battery life was an important factor for me since I take my camera on long trips. The Ixus 285 Hs offers decent endurance, allowing me to shoot several hundred photos on a single charge. However, carrying a spare battery is always a good idea if you plan to shoot extensively.

Connectivity Options

One feature I found very convenient is the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC. It made transferring photos to my smartphone effortless, so I could quickly share my shots on social media without needing a computer.

Price and Value

Considering its features and compact size, I found the Canon Ixus 285 Hs to be reasonably priced. It offers excellent value for casual photographers who want a reliable point-and-shoot without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a compact, easy-to-use camera with good image quality and useful features like zoom and wireless connectivity, the Canon Ixus 285 Hs is worth considering. It’s been a dependable companion for me, capturing memories with ease and style.

Author Profile

Linda Antle
Linda Antle
I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.

In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.