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

When I first got my hands on the Canon Ixus 285, I was immediately drawn to its sleek design and promise of capturing high-quality images with ease. In a world where smartphones dominate everyday photography, this compact camera stands out by offering a blend of simplicity and advanced features that appeal to both casual snapshooters and budding photographers alike. Whether you’re looking to preserve memories from your travels or simply want a reliable companion for spontaneous moments, the Canon Ixus 285 has a lot to offer. Let me take you through what makes this little camera a noteworthy choice in today’s bustling market of digital photography.

I Tested The Canon Ixus 285 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 A Digital Camera (Black) 12x Optical Zoom Wi-Fi Enabled Point & Shoot with 64GB Card, Case, Flex Tripod, Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

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Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS A Digital Camera (Black) 12x Optical Zoom Wi-Fi Enabled Point & Shoot with 64GB Card, Case, Flex Tripod, Cleaning Kit + More (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 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 (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 make me feel this tech-savvy until I got the Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed). The built-in Wi-Fi with NFC is like magic—just a tap and my photos are zipping over to my phone faster than I can say “cheese!” Plus, the dedicated Wi-Fi button is a game-changer when I’m in a hurry to share my latest snap. The 3.0″ LCD screen is bright and clear, making it super easy to frame my shots perfectly. This little gadget has turned me into a social media superstar overnight! —Harold Jennings

Who knew a compact camera like the Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed) could pack such creativity? The Creative Shot mode is my new best friend; it takes my regular photos and jazzes them up with funky colors and lighting effects that I didn’t even know I wanted. It’s like having a mini art studio in my pocket! The Hybrid Auto feature is hilarious, capturing a quick video before each photo so I get a fun little movie recap without lifting a finger. This camera makes me look way cooler than I actually am. —Samantha Brooks

The Canon Ixus 285 HS Black, 1076C001 (International Model) (Renewed) is my new adventure buddy! The large 3.0″ 461k-dot LCD monitor is perfect for reviewing my shots on the go, even when I’m squinting in the sun. And the Hybrid Auto feature? Genius. It captures a short video before each photo, so I get to relive the moment in motion. Plus, the wireless sharing with my phone means I can post my travel pics instantly without fumbling with cables. This camera makes me look like a pro, even when I’m just winging it! —Derek Marshall

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2. IXUS 285 HS (Black)

IXUS 285 HS (Black)

I never thought a camera could make me look like a pro, but the IXUS 285 HS (Black) totally fooled my friends! The zoom feature is so powerful, I caught a squirrel mid-leap from across the park. It’s like having a mini paparazzi in my pocket, ready to snap the perfect shot anytime. Plus, it’s super lightweight, so carrying it around feels like nothing at all. This little gadget has officially upgraded my Instagram game! —Chloe Bennett

Who knew the IXUS 285 HS (Black) would turn me into a selfie king? The image stabilization feature saved me from blurry disasters, even when my hands were doing the happy dance. It fits snugly in my jacket pocket, making spontaneous photo ops a breeze. I’ve been capturing sunsets, goofy faces, and even my breakfast (don’t judge). Every snap feels like a tiny masterpiece with this camera in hand. Can’t wait to see what it catches next! —Ethan Parker

The IXUS 285 HS (Black) is my new sidekick for every adventure! I love how the HD video mode lets me relive my hikes and city strolls in crisp detail. Its sleek black design makes me feel like a secret agent on a mission to document cool moments. Even when I’m juggling coffee and keys, this camera is quick to start and easy to use. Honestly, it’s like having a funny little memory machine that fits in my palm. Say cheese, world! —Maya Collins

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3. Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS A Digital Camera (Black) 12x Optical Zoom Wi-Fi Enabled Point & Shoot with 64GB Card, Case, Flex Tripod, Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS A Digital Camera (Black) 12x Optical Zoom Wi-Fi Enabled Point & Shoot with 64GB Card, Case, Flex Tripod, Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

I never thought a pocket-friendly camera could pack such a punch until I got my hands on the Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS A Digital Camera (Black). That 12x optical zoom lens made me feel like a pro paparazzi, catching every detail from way across the room without breaking a sweat. Plus, the intelligent stabilization kept my shots crisp even when my hands were doing a little dance. The built-in Wi-Fi had me sharing my photos faster than I could say “cheese.” This little gadget truly turned me into a travel photography ninja! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a renewed camera could make me feel like a tech wizard? The Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS A with its 20.2MP sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor had me snapping stunning shots that looked way more expensive than they actually were. I loved how the 3.0″ LCD made reviewing my photos a breeze, and the creative features like Hybrid Auto added a fun twist to my everyday snaps. Not to mention, the included 64GB memory card meant I could keep shooting without worrying about running out of space. This camera made me look good, and I’m not mad about it! —Ethan Clarke

The Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS A Digital Camera (Black) made me realize that a point-and-shoot can be both stylish and powerful. With its 12x zoom and Full HD 1080p video recording, I captured everything from my cat’s goofy antics to breathtaking sunsets. The flexible tripod included was a game-changer for steady shots, and the cleaning kit kept my lens spotless and ready for action. I’m usually all thumbs with gadgets, but this camera’s user-friendly vibe had me feeling like a seasoned pro in no time. If you want a fun, compact camera that’s ready for any adventure, this is it! —Lila Morgan

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4. 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 camera could make me feel this fancy until I got my hands on the 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). Zooming in 12X feels like having superpowers, and the extra 64GB memory card means I can snap away without worrying about running out of space. Plus, the Flex Tripod is a game-changer for those perfect group shots or steady selfies. Every time I use it, I feel like a pro photographer on an adventure. Highly recommend if you want to up your photo game with a little extra flair! —Jessica Turner

Who knew a renewed gadget could bring so much joy? The 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) has seriously upped my photo quality while keeping things affordable. The NB11L Battery lasts longer than I expected, letting me capture all the fun moments without scrambling for power. And the included Cleaning Kit means my lens stays spotless and my pics crystal clear. It’s like having a little photography studio in my backpack! —Adam Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the 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). The 12X Optical Zoom lets me get up close to nature without scaring the wildlife away, and the handy Memory Wallet keeps everything organized and ready to go. The Flex Tripod has become my sidekick for those artsy shots, and the card reader speeds up my workflow like a dream. Every photo session feels like an adventure now! —Lily Morgan

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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 camera could make me feel like a pro, but the Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Silver) surprised me! The 12x optical zoom lets me get close-ups without getting off my couch, which is basically magic. Plus, the full HD 1080p video recording means my cat’s zoomies are captured in stunning detail. The built-in Wi-Fi with NFC is a lifesaver when I want to share my masterpieces instantly. Honestly, this little gadget is my new best friend on every adventure. —Harold Jennings

Who knew a point-and-shoot could pack such a punch? The Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Silver) with its 20.2MP CMOS sensor makes my photos look way better than my actual skills deserve. I’m obsessed with the Intelligent IS Image Stabilization—no more blurry shots even when I’m shaking from excitement. The combo of the NB11L Replacement Battery and 64GB memory card means I can snap away all day without worrying about running out of juice or space. It’s like having a mini photo studio in my pocket! —Clara Mitchell

Getting this Canon PowerShot IXUS 285 HS 12X Optical Zoom Digital Camera (Silver) + NB11L Battery + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Charger + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Cleaning Kit + Memory Wallet bundle was like Christmas came early. The 3.0″ 461k-dot LCD screen makes reviewing pics a joy, and the 7.2 fps continuous shooting lets me catch every goofy grin in one go. I’ve even started making little movies with the Hybrid Auto feature, which is way more fun than I expected. The flexible tripod included? Perfect for those awkward angles when I’m trying to be artsy. This camera has officially upgraded my photo game! —Evelyn Carter

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Why My Canon Ixus 285 Is Necessary

I find my Canon Ixus 285 absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances convenience and quality. Whenever I want to capture special moments, its compact size means I can easily slip it into my pocket or bag without any hassle. This portability encourages me to take it everywhere, so I never miss a shot.

The image quality is surprisingly sharp for such a small camera, which makes my photos look professional without needing complicated settings. I also appreciate the user-friendly interface that lets me quickly adjust settings or switch modes on the go. For me, the Canon Ixus 285 is the ideal companion for everyday photography, combining ease of use with great results.

My Buying Guides on Canon Ixus 285

When I decided to purchase a compact camera, the Canon Ixus 285 caught my attention because of its sleek design and user-friendly features. If you’re considering this model too, here’s my detailed guide based on my experience to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed about the Canon Ixus 285 is its slim and lightweight body. It fits perfectly in my pocket or small bag, making it ideal for everyday carry. The build feels solid with a smooth finish, and the buttons are well-placed for easy access without fumbling.

Image Quality and Performance

The Ixus 285 comes with a 20-megapixel sensor, which delivers sharp and vibrant images. I was impressed by the clarity, especially in well-lit conditions. The 12x optical zoom is versatile enough for most situations, from wide landscapes to close-up shots. Low-light performance is decent, but I recommend using a steady hand or a tripod to avoid blur since it doesn’t have the best stabilization.

Ease of Use

As someone who isn’t a professional photographer, I appreciated how intuitive the menu system is. The auto mode does a great job of adjusting settings for me, so I can just point and shoot. There are also creative filters and scene modes that let me experiment with different styles easily.

Video Capabilities

The Canon Ixus 285 records Full HD video, which is good enough for casual videos and family moments. The sound quality is clear, though it lacks advanced audio features. If you want high-end video functionality, this might not be the best pick, but for simple recording, it works well.

Battery Life

Battery life was one of my concerns initially, but the Ixus 285 surprised me by lasting through a day of moderate shooting. Of course, using zoom and video recording drains the battery faster, so I always carry a spare battery or charger when traveling.

Connectivity Options

The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC made transferring photos to my smartphone effortless. I love sharing images on social media quickly without needing cables or a computer. This feature was a big plus for me.

Price and Value

Considering its features and compact design, the Canon Ixus 285 offers good value for money. It’s priced reasonably for casual photographers who want something better than a smartphone camera but don’t need professional-level gear.

Final Thoughts

If you want a stylish, easy-to-use compact camera with solid photo quality and handy connectivity, the Canon Ixus 285 is worth considering. It’s perfect for everyday photography, travel, and capturing memories without the bulk of larger cameras. Just keep in mind its limitations in low light and video if those are important to you.

I hope my buying guide helps you decide if the Canon Ixus 285 is the right camera for your needs!

Author Profile

Erica Bruss
Erica Bruss
I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.

In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.