Canon

Canon 4838C018 PowerShot Zoom Digital Monocular - White

3.7 (139 reviews)
5 oz

Pocket-sized 12MP digital monocular with 100–800mm zoom range, image stabilization, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

$319.99*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Canon PowerShot Zoom is a purpose-built digital monocular that combines the functionality of a traditional monocular with the ability to capture 12-megapixel still photos and Full HD 30fps video. Its standout feature is the one-touch three-step zoom system, which lets you cycle instantly between 100mm, 400mm optical, and 800mm digital telephoto magnification with a single button press. This makes it particularly well-suited for bird watching, live sports, concerts, and travel, where you need to quickly zoom in on distant subjects without fumbling with a zoom ring or lens system.

Despite its pocket-sized form factor — weighing just over 5 ounces — the PowerShot Zoom packs in Canon's Optical Image Stabilization to counteract hand movement at high magnification, along with a 2.36-million-dot electronic viewfinder running at 60fps for a smooth, lag-free viewing experience. Advanced autofocus with face tracking helps maintain focus on moving subjects, which is particularly useful at crowded events. The device connects to smartphones via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy image transfer using Canon's Camera Connect app. This kit includes a USB-C charger and a microSD card, so it is ready to use out of the box.

Key Features

High Image Quality: Features a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor for capturing still photos; portable video camera delivers superb image clarity and level of detail

One-Touch Zoom: One-touch three-step telephoto magnification lets you switch from 100mm to 400mm optical to 800mm digital telephoto zoom; this handheld video camera can capture details you thought were out of reach

Compact Design: Small video camera with a lightweight, compact design that weighs just over 5 oz; pocket-sized ZOOM portable camera is comfortable to use and ideal to take almost anywhere

Image Stabilization: Optical Image Stabilization (IS) technology keeps the view clear and steady; Canon ZOOM Digital Monocular Camera corrects even the subtlest of shakes — ideal compact digital camera for long viewing times and when following moving subjects

Advanced Autofocus and Face Tracking: Advanced mode combines Auto Focus and Face Tracking functionalities to help detect faces when looking through the EVF; suitable for fast-moving action like at a sporting event

Superior Viewing Experience: 2.36-million-dot and 60 fps EVF; provides clear, vivid image quality when viewing, taking pictures or recording video

Specifications

Brand
Canon
Model
4838C018
Type
Zoom Digital Monocular
Sensor
12-megapixel CMOS
Optical Zoom
400mm
Digital Zoom
800mm
Zoom Steps
100mm / 400mm / 800mm (one-touch)
Image Stabilization
Optical (OIS)
EVF
2.36-million-dot, 60fps
Video
Full HD 30fps
Autofocus
Auto Focus with Face Tracking
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weight
Approx. 5 oz
Kit Includes
PowerShot Zoom, USB-C Charger, microSD Card

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Ultra-compact design at just over 5 oz fits easily in a jacket pocket or small bag
  • One-touch zoom provides instant switching between 100mm, 400mm, and 800mm focal lengths
  • Optical Image Stabilization keeps the view steady at high magnification levels
  • 2.36-million-dot EVF at 60fps delivers a smooth, clear viewing experience
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow wireless photo and video transfer to a smartphone

👎 Cons

  • No rear LCD screen — all viewing and framing must be done through the electronic viewfinder
  • The 800mm zoom is digital rather than optical, which reduces image sharpness at maximum magnification
  • 12-megapixel sensor produces lower resolution stills compared to most modern digital cameras
  • Fixed three-step zoom offers no intermediate focal lengths between 100mm, 400mm, and 800mm
  • Video recording is limited to Full HD 30fps with no 4K option

Frequently Asked Questions

A single button cycles through three magnification steps: 100mm, 400mm optical, and 800mm digital telephoto. There is no manual zoom ring — each press snaps to the next focal length instantly.
Yes, it records Full HD video at 30fps, making it useful for capturing distant subjects in motion at sporting events, wildlife outings, or travel.
The PowerShot Zoom connects to your smartphone via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing you to transfer images wirelessly through the Canon Camera Connect app.
It weighs just over 5 ounces, making it light enough to carry in a pocket or hang from a lanyard for extended viewing sessions without fatigue.
Yes, it features Canon's Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) technology, which counteracts hand shake to keep the view steady — especially useful at the higher 400mm and 800mm zoom levels.