10 Best Underwater Cameras (Action and Compact)
If you are planning to dive in and buy an underwater camera, you might want to consider this curated list of the best underwater cameras.
Underwater photography is one of the most popular sorts of photography among individuals because of its remarkable visual genre.
Photographic artists ought to have a decent underwater camera to capture this tasteful magnificence with additional subtleties and lucidity.
What are the best underwater cameras?
The best waterproof cameras permit you to explore and take photos in an underwater environment.
Choosing the best underwater camera can be troublesome and challenging with all the available options.
To aid you in finding the best waterproof camera, here is my compilation of the 10 best underwater cameras.
10 Best Underwater Cameras
- Nikon Coolpix W300 — Best all-around
- Olympus Tough TG-6 — Best for macro
- SeaLife Micro 3.0 — Best for professional divers
- GoPro Hero10 — Best action camera
- Insta360 One R — Best compact
- DJI Osmo Action — Best value
- AKASO EK7000 — Best budget
- Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TS30R — Best for still photos
- Sony RX100 VII Premium — Best high-end compact
- Paralenz Vaquita — Best for underwater video
How to choose the best underwater camera
Each device has its own remarkable selling points, which I will discuss briefly in this article.
You should simply acknowledge your needs and preferences, as well as your spending capability.
These are the factors you will have to consider if you want to get the best underwater camera possible.
If you want the best camera phone, you might want to consider these factors:
- Megapixel
- Full Manual Control
- Fisheye Lens
- Autofocus
- Raw Mode
- Price
Megapixel
A minimum of a 6-megapixel camera is sufficient for most typical camera use.
If you wish to go for larger pictures or canvas, go for a higher megapixel.
For greater underwater photography or any other type of shooting experience, be mindful of the sensor size to get a more precise image resolution.
Full Manual Control
The best way to control the surrounding light is to set the screen speed and gap yourself.
Having full oversight over how much ambient light comes into the camera is exceptionally useful, especially while utilizing an outer strobe.
If you are thinking about buying an underwater camera, you should get one with full manual controls.
Fisheye Lens
Scuba diving photography expects you to set up near the subject to get the best tones, which a fisheye focal point makes easier.
The capacity to take a fisheye focal point is significant for individuals who need to shoot wide-angle.
The most effective way to do that is with the UWL-04 fisheye lens.
Autofocus
A great underwater camera has great autofocus capability.
However, few of the underwater cameras available are exceptionally slow to focus when doing underwater activities.
Not all compacts have great autofocus capabilities, so it is better to take note of this factor upon purchasing.
RAW Mode
It’s great to have it; however, not everyone will shoot in raw.
On the off chance that you don’t have the right settings and the right focal point, then, at that point, having RAW won’t make any difference in any case.
This is only significant if you anticipate shooting in RAW, and most compacts offer this at this point.
Price
There are many alternatives to underwater cameras, ranging from the most affordable to the most expensive.
What brand or model you can afford is always determined by your spending capacity.
Action Camera vs. Compact Camera
Action cameras like Go Pros are a lot more modest than waterproof compacts.
They are thus easier to mount or wear on a cap, making them ideal for watersports.
Their video specs, likewise, will generally be better, with goals of 4K and higher and cutthroat edge rates.
Here’s the list of the best underwater cameras so you can choose the perfect one for you according to the above factors and considerations.
1. Nikon Coolpix W300
If you are into deep-water activities, the Nikon Coolpix W300 is your best choice for a waterproof underwater camera.
The best all-around underwater camera.
A fearless little camera that is ideal for diving, swimming, and snorkeling.
It comes with a barometer that gives helpful underwater information like depth and altitude, as well as an electronic compass.
For a quick file transfer, the device’s Bluetooth capability is likewise ready, and this matches well with Nikon’s SnapBridge innovation.
If you are looking for a versatile underwater camera to complement all your deep-water activities, the Nikon Coolpix W300 is undoubtedly the perfect fit for you.
Specifications
Type: Compact
Sensor: 1/2.3in
Megapixel: 16 MP
Video Resolution: 4K
LCD: 3in, 921k dots
Max Depth Rating: 30m/100ft
Shockproof: 2.4m/8ft
Freezeproof: -10ºC/14ºF
Pros
- Amazing waterproofing capacity
- Supports 4K videos
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Slow-motion videos are unsupported
Buy Nikon Coolpix W300 on Amazon Now
2. Olympus Tough TG-6
The Olympus Tough TG-6 is the toughest and most durable underwater camera on the market.
The best underwater camera for macro photography.
This device boasts a bright f/2 lens with a superb macro function and takes video in 4K quality.
This water-proof camera features a 12MP BSI CMOS sensor and a TruePic VIII image processor that will provide you with striking picture clarity and low-light performance.
This device is adequately featured to deal with extreme environments and is equipped with great imaging and video technology.
If you are looking for the best underwater camera to capture those little critters underwater with excellent clarity, the Olympus Tough TG-6 is a perfect pick.
Specifications
Type: Compact
Sensor: 1/2.3in
Megapixel: 12 MP
Video Resolution: 4K/120 FPS
LCD: 3in, 1,040k dots
Max Depth Rating: 15m/50ft
Shockproof: 2.1m/7ft
Freezeproof: -10ºC/14ºF
Pros
- Very durable
- Great image and video quality
Cons
- Expensive
- Lower waterproof capability
Buy Olympus Tough TG-6 on Amazon Now
3. SeaLife Micro 3.0
The SeaLife Micro 3.0 has excellent waterproofing capabilities and can be brought down to an underwater depth of up to 200 feet (60 meters)
The best underwater camera for professional divers.
SeaLife cameras are intended for serious divers who want to dive deeper and shoot their underwater activities.
The Micro 3.0 doesn’t compromise on the quality of photography, with a powerful 16-megapixel Sony sensor and the ability to shoot RAW images and 4K video.
Other underwater cameras available will require you to purchase an additional waterproof casing or a unit to protect your device.
Using the SeaLife series of underwater cameras that are permanently sealed is the simplest way to get started with underwater imaging.
If you are a professional diver looking for the best underwater camera, the SeaLife Micro 3.0 is a great choice.
Specifications
Type: Compact
Sensor: 1/2.3in
Megapixel: 16 MP
Video Resolution: 4K/30 FPS
LCD: 2.4in, 260k dots
Max Depth Rating: 60m/200ft
Pros
- Lightweight but has big buttons
- Up to 200 ft. waterproofing rate
Cons
- No zoom capability
- The image sensor is a bit small
Buy SeaLife Micro 3.0 on Amazon Now
4. GoPro Hero10
The GoPro Hero10 is the most recognizable brand for action cameras and underwater adventures.
The best underwater action camera on the market
It makes an outstanding showing of streamlining camera shake, making it helpful for clients who lean toward recording without utilizing a gimbal.
The Hero10 might just look the same as its predecessor, the GoPro Hero9, but it is actually a more refined version.
This device is intended to be mounted on a wide assortment of items, ranging from chest and protective cap apparatuses to sports vehicles.
If you are looking for an action camera for your POV action shots or underwater live streaming, don’t look further; the GoPro Hero10 is your perfect ally.
Specifications
Type: Compact
Sensor: 1/2.3in
Megapixel: 23 MP
Video Resolution: 5.3K/60 FPS, 4K/120 FPS
Max Depth Rating: 33 ft.
Pros
- Clean and crisp performance
- Faster UI
Cons
- Bigger than its predecessor
- Batteries are not compatible with old ones
Buy GoPro Hero10 on Amazon Now
5. Insta360 One R
The Insta360 One R is a one-of-a-kind action and 360-degree camera that snaps together like Lego blocks.
The best compact underwater camera.
It allows customers to choose between three cameras or mods based on the most important features.
When compared to non-measured rivals like the Hero 8 and GoPro Max, the Insta360 One R is a unique camera that offers nearly great value.
The camera feels tough and solid in the hands.
The camera’s modular design isn’t much bigger than your standard sports camera.
With minimal flaws, it’s a good option for those who need to experiment with both 4K and 360-degree recordings.
If you are in search of the best compact underwater camera, Insta360 One R is a must-try camera.
Specifications
Type: Action
Lens Type: Wide-Angle
Megapixel: 23 MP
Video Resolution: 5.7K/360°
Max Depth Rating: 5m/16.4ft
Pros
- Amazing slow-motion video capacity
- Very compact and durable
Cons
- Best used for video
- Standard waterproofing capability
Buy Insta360 One R on Amazon Now
6. DJI Osmo Action
DJI’s new Osmo Action offers almost everything that makes the GoPro famous, plus a few new features of its own, such as a front screen for easy selfies.
The best value underwater camera.
If you wanted a GoPro, but it was not possible at the moment, you will never go wrong with DJI.
This portable and adaptable underwater camera is packed with incredible features such as a 1/2.3′′ CMOS sensor that allows you to shoot 4K recordings.
The Osmo Action offers brilliant stability and slow-motion recordings at 8x the speed of Full HD, all at an affordable price.
There are a couple of downsides, like lag issues at high resolution and the application can be unreliable at times, but it is still worth buying.
If you are eyeing the best value underwater camera on the market, the DJI Osmo Action is a fantastic choice.
Specifications
Type: Compact
Sensor: 1/2.3in
Megapixel: 12 MP
Video Resolution: 4K
LCD: Front-facing; 2.2-inch rear LCD
Max Depth Rating: 11m/36ft
Shockproof: 1.5m/5ft
Freezeproof: -10ºC/14ºF
Pros
- Amazing image stabilization
- Value for your money
Cons
- Laggy at max resolution
- The app can be unreliable at times
Buy DJI Osmo Action on Amazon Now
7. AKASO EK7000
TheAKASO EK7000 is one of the best underwater cameras you can buy at an affordable and budget-friendly price.
The cheapest underwater camera you can buy.
It has been known as the best GoPro alternative if you are on a budget.
With EK7000, you will get a camera that can endure outrageous conditions, including depths of up to 100 feet, without spending a fortune.
As far as photography is concerned, it includes a 170° wide-point focal point that can catch proficient recordings at 4K at 30 FPS, 2.7K at 30 FPS, and 1080P at 60 FPS.
If you love outdoor activities and underwater adventures and looking for the cheapest underwater camera, EK7000 is the device you are looking for.
For an affordable camera, it delivers decent performance, with a host of amazing capabilities like 12 MP and 4K video recording.
If you are planning to dive underwater and wanted to record all your memories with an underwater camera. AKASO EK7000 will never hurt your pockets at all.
Specifications
Type: Compact
Sensor: 1/2.3in
Megapixel: 16 MP
Video Resolution: 4K/30 FPS, 2.7K/30 FPS
Max Depth Rating: 30m/100ft
Pros
- Affordable
- 4K video-supported
Cons
- Average display
- Not touch screen
Buy AKASO EK7000 on Amazon Now
8. Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TS30R
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS30R might not be the latest underwater camera you can find on the market, but you can buy this device at a very affordable price.
The best underwater camera to capture still images.
You can use it at the beach or poolside, as it has a waterproof capability of up to 26 feet deep.
It has a 5x zoom lens, and its 16 MP CCD sensor is a good fit for outdoor snapshots, but it limits video to a meager 720p.
But because of its slim and compact design, it is advisable that you wear it with a wrist strap to secure it.
Looking for a compact camera for your water adventures? -Here’s Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TS30R for you.
Specifications
Type: Compact
Sensor: 1/2.3in
Megapixel: 16.1 MP
Video Resolution: HD
LCD: 2.7in, 230k dots
Max Depth Rating: 8m/26ft
Shockproof: 1.5m/5ft
Freezeproof: -10ºC/14ºF
Pros
- Cleverly designed
- Great price
Cons
- Standard video quality
- Older specs
Buy Panasonic LUMIX DMC-TS30R on Amazon Now
9. Sony RX100 VII Premium
This is a top-notch compact underwater camera, and you can anticipate excellent accuracy and detail from the Sony RX100.
The best high-end compact underwater camera.
This is among the best underwater cameras in the compact classification.
Featuring a 4K HD sensor, this camera performs well over the waves and underwater, but don’t forget your casing for protection.
This device is Sony’s most recent high-level compact camera, the seventh cycle of the RX100.
If you have any desire to take your photography to a higher level, you can never go wrong with the Sony RX100 VII Premium.
Specifications
Type: Compact
Lens Type: Telephoto
Megapixel: 20.1 MP
Video Resolution: 4K HD
Sensor: 116.16mm2
Pros
- Easy-to-use
- Excellent video functions
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited housing options
Buy Sony RX100 VII Premium on Amazon Now
10. Paralenz Vaquita
The Paralenz Vaquita is a simple-to-use underwater camera, especially for scuba diving.
The best underwater camera for taking videos.
This is one of the best professional underwater cameras.
It has a round and hollow case that doesn’t need an extra waterproof casing, and you can change the settings while underwater in a hassle-free manner.
The Depth-Controlled Color Correction which is basically a computerized channel, corrects the white balance between your video and pictures, depending upon your depth.
If you are fond of shooting videos rather than still images, the Paralenz Vaquita is a great choice.
Specifications
Type: Action
Megapixel: 12 MP
Video Resolution: 4K at 60fps
LCD: 0.95-in
Max Depth Rating: 350m/1150ft
Freezeproof: -10ºC to -40ºC/14ºF to 140ºF
Pros
- Casing not required
- Compact
Cons
Buy Paralenz Vaquita on Amazon Now
Conclusions
- Casing not required
- Compact
Buy Paralenz Vaquita on Amazon Now
Conclusions
It’s a fact that there are tons of enticing underwater cameras available on the market.
To assist you in making your choice more easily, we have evaluated 10 of the best underwater cameras.
Which is the best underwater camera?
If you want to be part of the action, you’ll need a camera that can keep up with you.
The best camera phone changes frequently, but the Nikon Coolpix W300, Olympus Tough TG-6, and SeaLife Micro 3.0 remain our top choices.
That doesn’t imply it’ll be the best option for everyone; think about what you need from your camera phone before making a decision.
By considering the most important factors in choosing your ideal underwater camera, you will definitely find the one that fits your preferences and your budget.
Originally published at https://www.ebaqdesign.com on October 30, 2022.
