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Canon IXUS 230 HS Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£240
  • Avg. price in US: ~$200
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.54 µm
  • Weight: 140 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 210 shots

Canon IXUS 230 HS review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.7

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.2

Technical Score

10.0%

8.7

User score

Poor
4.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.9

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.2

Photo Features

18.0%

4.8

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.6

Display & Design

8.0%

2.8

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.7

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
8.7

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.1

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(186)
amazon
3.6
(56)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.0
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    4.7

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.3

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.3
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    10

    Weight

    30.0%

    1.5

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.2
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.3

    Price

    20.0%

    10

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    1.5

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 3.5
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    4.7

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.8

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

  • 7.4
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Weight

    25.0%

    10

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 3.2
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    1.8

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    4.7

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.2
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Weight

    25.0%

    1.5

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • canon-ixus-230-hs
canon-ixus-230-hs

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Canon IXUS 230 HS features a 12.1 MP CMOS sensor, 8x optical zoom (28-224mm equivalent), and a 3-inch 461k-dot LCD screen within a slim 22mm body. Powered by the DIGIC 4 processor, it offers 1080p Full HD video recording, 3.5 fps continuous shooting, and a high-speed burst mode of 8.7 fps. Its main strengths are the versatile focal range, stylish ultra-compact design, and excellent image quality in low light via the HS System. However, cons include relatively short battery life and the lack of manual exposure controls for advanced users.

Technical Specifications of Canon IXUS 230 HS

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.9

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.2

Photo Features

18.0%

4.8

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.6

Display & Design

8.0%

2.8

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.7

Connectivity & Storage

4.2
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a technical score of 4.21 points, which is lower than 81.4% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.1

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(186)
amazon
3.6
(56)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.7
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a user score of 8.69 points, which is higher than 74.1% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 66.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.7

Overall score

40.0%

9.3

Price

6.0
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a quality-to-price ratio of 6 points, which is lower than 63.6% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

1/2.3"
Canon IXUS 230 HS uses a sensor classified as 1/2.3"; it is smaller than the sensor in 60.5% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 38.1% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

12.1 MP
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a main camera resolution of 12.1 MP, which is lower than that of 86.6% of cameras and equal to that of 6.9% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

1.54 µm
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a main camera pixel size of 1.54 µm which is smaller than in 62.2% of cameras and equal to the size in 2.2% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

100
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a base ISO of 100 which is higher than that of 20.3% of cameras and equal to that of 52% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

3,200
Canon IXUS 230 HS reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 3,200, which is lower than that of 62.8% of cameras and equal to that of 22.7% of cameras.
Show more
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon IXUS 230 HS does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

9
Canon IXUS 230 HS has 9 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 67.1% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 26% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Canon IXUS 230 HS supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
Show more
Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1920 px
Canon IXUS 230 HS supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

33 Mbps
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a video bitrate of 33 Mbps which is higher than that of 52.9% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Canon IXUS 230 HS supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Canon IXUS 230 HS supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
Show more
Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

140 g
Canon IXUS 230 HS weighs 140 g which is lighter than 90.5% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.5% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

95.8 mm
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a width of 95.8 mm which is narrower than 90.8% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

56.8 mm
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a height of 56.8 mm which is shorter than 92.2% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

22.1 mm
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a thickness of 22.1 mm which is thinner than 89.2% of cameras and equal to that of 0.5% of cameras.
Show more
Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

210 shots
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a CIPA-rated battery life of 210 shots, which is shorter than that of 86.9% of cameras and equal to that of 3.4% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

760 mAh
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a battery capacity of 760 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 85.2% of cameras and equal to those in 0.3% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Canon IXUS 230 HS has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon IXUS 230 HS does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon IXUS 230 HS does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
Show more

Canon IXUS 230 HS vs the average camera

  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Canon IXUS 230 HS uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
    Back-illuminated CMOS sensor.
    What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
    When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Canon IXUS 230 HS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
    Supports up to 240 fps high-speed video.
    What it is: The ability to record at high frame rates so motion can be played back more slowly than real time.
    When it matters: When you want to emphasize fast action, movement details, or dramatic moments in playback.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • 64.6% lighter
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is lighter than the average camera (140 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Canon IXUS 230 HS is lighter than the average camera (140 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.140 g vs 395 g
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Canon IXUS 230 HS supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
    What it is: Support for recording video at 24 frames per second, a frame rate commonly associated with cinematic motion.
    When it matters: When you want footage with a more traditional cinematic cadence instead of standard video motion.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
  • 24.1 mm narrower
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is narrower than the average camera (95.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
    What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
    When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS is narrower than the average camera (95.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.95.8 mm vs 119.9 mm
  • 17.1 mm shorter body
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is shorter than the average camera (56.8 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
    What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS is shorter than the average camera (56.8 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.56.8 mm vs 73.9 mm
  • 23.9 mm thinner
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is thinner than the average camera (22.1 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS is thinner than the average camera (22.1 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.22.1 mm vs 46 mm
  • 10x more popular
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 64.6% lighter
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is lighter than the average camera (140 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 24.1 mm narrower
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is narrower than the average camera (95.8 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 17.1 mm shorter body
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is shorter than the average camera (56.8 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 23.9 mm thinner
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is thinner than the average camera (22.1 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Canon IXUS 230 HS uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Canon IXUS 230 HS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Canon IXUS 230 HS supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Video & Audio
  • No hot shoe
    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • Smaller sensor
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
  • 4.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • 1.8 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.5 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 3,200 lower max ISO
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 2 older
    Canon IXUS 230 HS is older than the average camera (2011 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    August 2011
  • No RAW photo capture
    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • 2.2 fps slower mechanical burst
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • 14 fewer AF points
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • No manual focus mode
    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
    Only presets or special modes, not full manual focus.
  • No manual exposure control
    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
  • 0.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
  • 120 shots shorter battery life
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has shorter battery life than the average camera (210 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • 360 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (760 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • Smaller sensor
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
  • 4.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
    What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
    When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • No hot shoe
    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
    What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
    When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 1.8 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.5 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.5 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.54 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • 120 shots shorter battery life
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has shorter battery life than the average camera (210 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
    What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
    When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 400 shots

    Canon IXUS 230 HS has shorter battery life than the average camera (210 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.210 shots vs 330 shots
  • No RAW photo capture
    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
    What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
    When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon IXUS 230 HS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • 2.2 fps slower mechanical burst
    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Canon IXUS 230 HS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.3.5 fps vs 5.7 fps
Total
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Battery & Power

Graphic comparison of Canon IXUS 230 HS and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
186 Reviews
amazon
3.6
56 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Canon IXUS 230 HS?

  • Excellent image quality with sharp details and great colours
  • Superior low-light performance due to the HS sensor
  • Ultra-compact, slim metal body that is easy to carry in a pocket
  • Versatile 8x optical zoom in a small form factor
  • Fast and responsive autofocus and startup performance
  • High-quality 3-inch LCD screen with anti-reflective coating
  • Full HD 1080p video recording capability

What customers dislike about Canon IXUS 230 HS?

  • Audible zoom motor noise picked up on video soundtracks
  • Limited manual controls and exposure compensation in auto mode
  • Unusual or awkward placement of the menu and mode buttons
  • Tiny zoom lever can be difficult to use precisely and may feel sharp
  • High-speed burst mode is restricted to lower 3MP resolution
  • Macro shots can suffer from barrel distortion and edge blurring
  • Lack of advanced features like RAW support or Wi-Fi

Expert reviews

C
cnet.com
12/10/2011
Canon IXUS 230HS review - CNET

The Canon IXUS 230HS is an ultra-compact, pocket-sized 12.1-megapixel point-and-shoot camera that delivers an exceptional technical performance despite its small size. Operating primarily in an intelligent auto mode, it automatically detects shooting contexts to deliver incredibly sharp macro shots with rich colors, balanced shadow details, and minimal highlight clipping in bright...Read more

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ephotozine.com
17/10/2011
Canon IXUS 230 HS Digital Camera Review - ePHOTOzine

The Canon IXUS 230 HS is a compact 12.1-megapixel camera featuring an 8x optical zoom lens, a sturdy metal body, and a highly visible 3-inch LCD screen. It is praised for fast focusing speeds, quick startup times, and a 6.9 fps high-speed burst mode, though this mode is limited to 3-megapixel resolution. However, the camera's high-speed burst mode drops resolution to 3-megapixels,...Read more

T
techradar.com
14/11/2011
Canon IXUS 230 HS review - TechRadar

The TechRadar review of the Canon IXUS 230 HS highlights it as a stylish, slim, metal-bodied compact camera that offers excellent value for money. Equipped with Canon's HS technology, it utilizes a 12.1MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor alongside a DIGIC 4 image processor to deliver exceptional image quality, particularly when shooting at high ISO sensitivities. A major highlight is...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
11/10/2011
Canon Ixus 230 HS review - Expert Reviews

The Canon Ixus 230 HS is an ultra-compact, stylish point-and-shoot camera featuring a svelte metal shell, a sharp 3-inch screen, and a powerful 8x zoom lens (28-224mm). It delivers excellent performance by producing crisp, smooth 12-megapixel images with rich colours and minimal digital noise, even in indoor low-light settings. Additionally, its 1080p video recording mode captures...Read more

W
whatdigitalcamera.com
03/11/2011
Canon IXUS 230HS review - What Digital Camera

The Canon IXUS 230HS is rated 88% by What Digital Camera for offering a slim design, an 8x optical zoom, and 1080p video in a high-value package. Key strengths include a 3-inch LCD screen, 8.7fps high-speed shooting, and excellent low-light performance with minimal distortion. Conversely, the review notes a lack of manual controls for users desiring creative freedom, limiting it...Read more

T
t3.com
14/11/2011
Canon Ixus 230 HS review - T3

Review Overview The Canon Ixus 230 HS is a high-end compact camera that takes excellent pictures and fits easily into a bag. It features a 12-megapixel camera, an 8x optical zoom lens, and a bright three-inch screen. The camera works fast with no starting delay, and its high-speed burst mode can snap 8.7 shots per second. It also captures high-quality full HD 1080p video with smooth...Read more

C
cameralabs.com
29/11/2011
Canon ELPH 310 HS / IXUS 230 HS - Cameralabs 💡 Note: This model is also marketed as the PowerShot ELPH 310 HS in North America, which is why some int...

Overview The Canon PowerShot ELPH 310 HS (IXUS 230 HS) is a 12.1-megapixel, ultra-slim point-and-shoot camera featuring a back-illuminated CMOS sensor and an 8x optical zoom lens with a 28–224mm equivalent range. Designed for maximum portability, it handles like a smartphone while offering advanced automated features such as "Intelligent IS" optical stabilisation, which...Read more

I
imaging-resource.com
10/08/2012
Canon 310 HS Review - Imaging Resource

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 310 HS is a highly compact, pocket-sized camera that stands out by offering a versatile 8x optical zoom lens (28-224mm equivalent) equipped with effective optical image stabilization. It features a 3-inch, 461k-dot LCD screen and a wealth of creative shooting options, including Handheld Night Scene, Macro mode (focusing down to 0.4 inches), and various...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
06/02/2012
Canon PowerShot Elph 310 HS - Review 2012 - PCMag UK

The Canon PowerShot Elph 310 HS is a highly compact, 12-megapixel point-and-shoot camera that earned an "Excellent" 4.0 rating and an Editors' Choice award for its impressive midrange performance. Its standout feature is an 8x optically stabilized zoom lens (28-224mm equivalent) packed into a slim, sturdy metal body designed to fit easily into a shirt pocket. The camera boasts a...Read more

D
dpinterface.com
05/12/2011
Canon PowerShot ELPH 310 HS Review - DP Interface

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 310 HS (also known as the IXUS 230 HS or IXY 600F) is a highly pocketable and lightweight 12-megapixel digital camera featuring a backlit CMOS sensor and a versatile 8x optical zoom lens (28–224mm equivalent) equipped with optical image stabilization. Priced as an affordable all-rounder, it delivers snappy performance with fast startup and focus times, and...Read more

C
cnet.com
17/02/2012
Canon PowerShot ELPH 310 HS review - CNET Imaging Resource

The Canon PowerShot Elph 310 HS is a compact digital camera positioned as an incremental upgrade over older models like the 300 HS, offering an 8x zoom lens and a larger, higher-resolution screen for a slight price premium. It is designed primarily as a budget-friendly option for casual snapshooters who want better image quality than a smartphone without needing premium modern...Read more

C
chip.de
10/11/2011
Canon IXUS 230 HS (Digital Camera) Review - CHIP

Despite these strengths, the camera suffers from notable drawbacks in image quality and ergonomics. Image noise increases significantly at ISO 400 and above, leading to a visible loss of fine details in low-light conditions or indoor shots. Lens performance is another weak point, exhibiting a sharpness loss of over 25 percent at the image edges, along with visible color fringing...Read more

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computerwoche.de
29/12/2011
Digital Camera: Canon Ixus 230 HS Review - Computerwoche

However, the camera delivers rather mediocre image quality overall. Testing revealed excessive image noise—particularly at ISO 200—alongside extreme lens distortion at both the wide and telephoto ends. The resolution drops significantly toward the edges of the frame, yielding a poor effective resolution of just 4.52 megapixels from its 12-megapixel sensor. Furthermore, a noticeable...Read more

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C
connect-living.de
18/01/2012
Canon Ixus 230 HS - connect-living

The Colorfoto review highlights the Canon Ixus 230 HS as a pocket-friendly, lightweight compact camera that packs an impressive 28 to 224 mm (35mm equivalent) focal length range into an elegant, slim form factor. Weighing only 140 grams with batteries and a memory card, its ultra-portable design makes it easy to carry in a shirt pocket. Key pros noted in the review include its...Read more

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D
diepresse.com
17/11/2011
Ixus 230 HS: Strong in low light, weak on subtle tones

The Canon Ixus 230 HS is a compact digital camera powered by the second generation of Canon's High Sensitivity (HS) system, featuring a backlit sensor designed specifically to boost performance in low-light environments. Retailing for around 230 Euros at launch, this point-and-shoot camera offers straightforward, automation-focused operation ideal for casual event photography and...Read more

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N
netzwelt.de
07/12/2011
Canon Ixus 230 HS review | NETZWELT

The NETZWELT review highlights the Canon Ixus 230 HS as a compact digital camera powered by a 12.1-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor. A key advantage of this model is its versatile lens, which offers an 8x optical zoom coverage spanning from 28 to 224 mm in a 35mm equivalent format. Users can easily compose images and review media via the sharp 3-inch built-in screen, while an...Read more

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L
lesnumeriques.com
15/11/2011
Canon Ixus 230HS Review - Les Numériques

The Canon Ixus 230 HS is a compact camera that features a well-built body, an easy-to-use interface, and a 12-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor. It upgrades its predecessor with a larger 3-inch screen and a longer 8x optical zoom lens. Reviewers praise the camera for its sharp and consistent images when zoomed into the maximum telephoto setting, as well as its Full HD 1080p video mode with...Read more

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priice.fr
20/02/2013
Canon IXUS 230 HS - Specs, review and opinions - Priice

The Canon IXUS 230 HS is an ultracompact 12.1-megapixel digital camera featuring a 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor, an 8x optical zoom, and a 3-inch display. Released in October 2011 for a retail price of $259, this lightweight 140g device is highly portable and structurally robust. On the positive side, the camera boasts an appealing aesthetics with multiple color options, comfortable...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
15/11/2011
Review: Two high-end Canon Ixus compact cameras, the 1100 HS and the 230 HS - Les Numériques

based on the provided text: Canon Ixus 1100 HS and 230 HS Review Summary The Canon Ixus 1100 HS and Ixus 230 HS represent the premium end of Canon's compact camera lineup, sharing a baseline hardware configuration consisting of a 12-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and Full HD video recording capabilities. To differentiate themselves, both models focus on offering powerful optical zoom...Read more

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