Underwater/Waterproof Camera

I f your vacation plans include sand, water and maybe a scuba diving equipment, it’s time to think about an underwater camera. Waterproof and able to resist shocks, crushes or freeze, this little device will accompany you to the great depths of the sea and help you capture its wonder. Moreover, you will be able to zoom in and watch your recording on the LCD monitor to make sure you got the perfect pictures.

Many of them come with additional features and functions like voice control, underwater microscope or WiFi to ease your photography work and provide you with quality results. However, their greatest quality is that they allow you to take the greatness of the underwater world with you and share it with your friends and family.

Top 11 Underwater/Waterproof Cameras Compared

Photo	Product Name	Photo Resolution	Video Resolution	Water Depth Resistance	Optical Zoom	Screen Size	Price
Best Overall	1. Sony DSC-TX30/B	18 MP	1080p.	33 ft.	5x	3.3 in.	Check Price
Best Underwater/Waterproof Camera for Scuba Diving	2. Nikon K-98622-01	16 MP	4K	100 ft.	5x	3 in.	Check Price
Editor’s Choice	3. GoPro CHDHX-701	12 MP	4K	33 ft.		2 in.	Check Price
Best Underwater/Waterproof Camera for Macro Photography	4. Olympus V104210RU000	12 MP	4K	50 ft.	8X	3 in.	Check Price
Popular Pick	5. AKASO EK7000	12 MP	4K	100 ft.		2 in.	Check Price
	6. Nikon 26491	16 MP	1080p.	100 ft.	5X	3 in.	Check Price
	7. Olympus V104200EU000	16 MP	1080p.	50 ft.	5x	3 in.	Check Price
	8. Ricoh WG-50 16MP	16 MP	1080p.	46 ft.	5x	2.7 in.
Best Underwater/Waterproof Camera for the Money	9. Fujifilm 16544125	16.4 MP	1080p.	65 ft.	5x	3 in.	Check Price
	10. Fujifilm FinePix XP80 Graphite Black	16.2 MP	1080p.	50 ft.	5x	2.7 in.	Check Price
	11. PANASONIC DMC-TS30R	16 MP	720p.	26 ft.	4x	2.7 in.	Check Price

1. Sony DSC-TX30/B

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DSC-TX30 impressed us with its astonishing photo resolution and the image stabilization function that work together to produce the best photos you will ever take. No matter if you are planning on using it in a pool, a lake or the deeps of the ocean, it will help you record your experience and will follow you to a depth of up to 33 ft. Moreover, you will be able to record up to 3 hours and 10 minutes of 1080p. videos, thanks to the incorporated 8GB flash memory.

Quality OLED Touch Screen

It doesn’t only feature a large 3.3-inch touch screen, which is bigger than the screens provided by most of its competitors, but it uses OLED technology for considerably improved photo and video quality. With 1.229K dots, this organic light-emitting display ensures an ultra-high resolution and incredible photos clarity. Plus, it is faster than an ordinary LCD so it will deliver smoother playback of your videos, being perfect for dynamic footage which implies many changes of direction.

Ultra-HD Photos

The 18.2 optical resolution stands behind the ultra-high-definition photos you will get with this model. This means that even at depths of 33ft. the images will be extra-clear and colorful and you will be able to lock the underwater magic and share it with your loved ones. Equipped with a sharp lens and a sensor that reduces noise levels, it allows you to shot impeccable photos without blurry areas or graininess. Moreover, the high number of pixels means more options when it comes to enlarge, magnify, crop or zoom the photos.

Versatile Design

When choosing a camera for your adventures, you should always look at its sturdiness. Designed to be carried on mountain trips, hiking, biking and for underwater exploration, DSC-TX30/B has a dustproof, shockproof and waterproof structure. Plus, it allows you not only to take stunning photos but to record videos with a resolution of 1080p. that look great when played back on your phone or HDTV. And if you wish to capture a single image while filming, there’s nothing easier, as this device comes with a dual record so you don’t lose anything during your travels.

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2. Nikon K-98622-01

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Nikon is well-renowned for its powerful and qualitative cameras and this model isn’t an exception. Equipped with a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor lens that provides an optical resolution of 16 MP, it is ready to catch the most fantastic landscapes with sharpness and lock them for later display. The MP low-light sensor freezes the action, so you can always get steady, un-blurred images, while the 5x zoom helps you get even the tiniest details on camera. Moreover, you can zoom out, if you need to get a broader landscape in a single picture or style your photos on the spot with the Creative Mode, by choosing between 8 special effects and 8 quick effects.

Although this model can take awesome photos of day-by-day events, it is designed for extreme adventures, with an incredibly strong case that is not only waterproof but resistant to dust, shocks, and extremely low temperatures down to 14 degrees F, so if you are planning on taking it with you in your hiking, biking, climbing, snorkeling or scuba diving adventures it is a perfect choice. Plus, it incorporates a GPS function to help you keep track of your course and WiFi so you can easily transfer your recordings to your phone.

When it comes to video quality, things only get better. Able to record and playback with a 4K resolution, it is one of the most performant models on the market. Besides, it allows you to use time-lapse functions to condense long footage in only minutes of entertaining activity or shoot stills while filming. Plus, it is designed to be used in any weather conditions and allows you to change modes by only moving the camera, so you won’t have to remove your gloves when there’s freezing outside.

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3. GoPro CHDHX-701

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Imagine a wonderfully-clear sea with turtles running smoothly around you and fish swimming through the colorful coral reefs. This is exactly what GoPro CHDHX-701 will record next time you decide to scuba dive. Featuring a 12 MP photo resolution and an incredible 4K60 video resolution, it can capture and lock those special moments forever. Moreover, it allows you to slow things down with its Slo-Mo function that reduces video speed by up to 8x, so you can highlight the most important moments.

You won’t even have to use your hands to start filming or take photos, as this camera comes with a performant voice control function. All you need to do is say ‘GoPro, start recording’ and it will instantly film your experience. ‘GoPro, take a photo’ activates the 12 MP camera and it will snap a high-quality picture for you. Plus, the SuperPhoto function will apply noise reduction, HDR or local tone mapping, improving your shots and helping you get the perfect memories.

Nobody likes trembling footages where every sudden change of direction shows up instantly, disturbing clarity and reducing the video quality. However, you will not experience this problem with CHDHX-701, as it features the HyperSmooth video stabilization technology which was specially designed to anticipate your movements and adjust every time it predicts a shake. This means you will be able to record incredibly smooth videos without using a gimbal. Moreover, this function works perfectly underwater to a depth of up to 33 ft., helping you to get crystal-clear footage of plants and animals.

With an intuitive design and equipped with a 2-inch touch screen, it allows getting a good glimpse at what you are shutting or recording. Furthermore, it allows you to zoom in or out by using your fingers or change between photo and video. You can increase the speed of your recordings by 30x if you wish to obtain a more dynamic video and even share your experience live on Facebook and get your friends to enjoy it with you.

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4. Olympus V104210RU000

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This camera was designed to last any footage conditions and you will find its dust, shock and crush resistance more than useful when using it underwater. Furthermore, it resists depths of up to 50 feet and won’t get freeze damage as long as you keep it at a temperature above 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Equipped with a 3-inch LCD that is large enough for you to get a good look at what you are shooting, and featuring a photo resolution of 12 MP, it is ready to take outstanding pictures of your adventures. Moreover, the 4K video resolution allows you to capture details and get professional quality, even if things are moving fast around you.

You will be able to shoot small elements with the utmost precision, thanks to the microscope control mode that allows you to snap pictures as close as 1 cm from the front of the lens and magnify the details by 44x. Plus, the 3 white balance modes will help you capture the magnificence of the sea in vivid colors, so you can take all the wonderful sensations with you.

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5. AKASO EK7000

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It is one of the most popular models on the market, generating high sales every month, although AKASO isn’t yet as renowned as the brands specified before. So what makes this model so desired among buyers? First of all, the considerably smaller price and secondly, all the cool features that make it a good competitor. It’s simple, EK7000 comes with a 12 MP camera and can deliver 4K video resolution without exceeding your budget at all. Moreover, it is designed to withstand extreme conditions and it comes with a waterproof case that allows you to carry it with you to a depth of up to 100 ft.

The wrist remote is a great bonus as it allows to set the camera in place and shift between video and photo mode or use the time-lapse function from distance without causing unnecessary trembling that will show in your recordings. Additionally, you can use the built-in WiFi to transfer the pictures to your phone within a range of 10 meters.

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6. Nikon 26491

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Dreaming to explore the grand depths of the ocean and bring back a multitude of photos and recordings for your loved ones? It’s time to invest in a quality underwater camera that can resist depths of up to 100 ft. and Nikon 26491 is just the right model. Featuring a strong case, it is not only waterproof but won’t break if you drop it from up to 7 feet. Moreover, it is freeze proof and able to work even if the temperature is as low as 14 degrees F. Provided with a performant lens that allows wide-angle shooting and an optical resolution of 16 MP, it will deliver incredibly clear pictures even if the light goes dimmer. Plus, the video resolution is 1080p, this meaning that you will be able to record and watch your videos in HD with great details and wonderful colors.

The 3-inch LCD screen allows you to take look at your pictures and videos and select those which should go to your phone. The incorporated WiFi and NFC functions allow immediate transfer so you can share your experience with everybody as soon as possible. And with a zoom of 5x, you can make sure that nothing will pass unseen. The built-in GPS will help you remember your route by recording your coordinates and mapping your pictures. Moreover, you get an electronic compass that helps you navigate unknown places and the Points of Interest function, designed to show you historic landmarks and scenic lookouts.

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7. Olympus V104200EU000

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We loved V104200EU000’ 180-degree flip monitor that allows you to take selfies and low-angle shots and create impressive collages of pictures and videos captured from different angles. Moreover, the front button can be programmed to start filming or snap a picture and this feature proves very useful for selfies. You can use one of the 4 sport cam modes to get smooth-motion HD videos or the high-speed movie function to create slow-motion videos, all at a great resolution of 1080p. The Live Composite function is meant to help you catch night scenes, city lights or stars and it works by extracting the light portions from a sequence of shots and combine them into a single, wonderfully-exposed 12 MP picture.

Provided with WiFi and GPS and designed to be waterproof (to 50 feet), crushproof, shockproof and freezeproof (to 14 degrees F), it won’t let you down no matter how extreme is your experience. Even more, it will help you capture impressive panoramas with its wide 21 mm lens.

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8. Ricoh WG-50 16MP

Although this camera is one of the most compact and lightweight models, it features a large 2.7 inches screen, allowing you to go through your photos and recordings on the spot and keep only the best of them, thus freeing up space for more memories. It features a 16 MP 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor and can record videos with a resolution of 1080p. The optical zoom is 5x and it is equipped with 6 Led macro lights, which are situated around the lens barrel and allow you to take micro shots.

It has a rouged structure and can resist under water for up to 2 hours at a maximum depth of 46 feet. Apart from being waterproof, it is shockproof as well and won’t break if you drop it from a distance of up to 5 feet. Not to mention that it can withstand extreme temperatures ranging between 14 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The menu is self-explanatory and easy to use, and it allows you to choose between 3 shooting modes, namely general shooting mode or auto, self timer, and micro mode.

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9. Fujifilm 16544125

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With a 16 MP photo resolution, this camera qualifies as one of the most performant when it comes to photo clarity. Not a single detail will escape its lens which utilizes a CMOS sensor and offers you the possibility to zoom in by up to 5x and get pictures of elements that are positioned further in space. Furthermore, it allows you to record videos with a resolution of 1080p and you can use it underwater at a depth of up to 65 ft. The 3-inch LCD monitor provides great visibility and helps you set the frame for pictures, while the well-placed intuitive buttons provide the necessary comfort for easy shutting.

Sleek but extremely resistant, it is not only waterproof but shock, dust and freeze proof, so you won’t have to worry that a simple handling mistake might leave you without your recording instrument. It even allows you to create cinemagraphs, which consist of still photos containing select moving elements that produce a unique multimedia image. Other effects that can be attained with this camera are panoramas and time-lapse movies.

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10. Fujifilm FinePix XP80 Graphite Black

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How many times have you encountered problems when trying to zoom in your photos? The image loses clarity and things look a bit distorted and this is a common problem with poor optical zoom. However, Fujifilm has managed to solve this problem by combining the 5x optical zoom with intelligent digital zoom, all this resulting in an enhanced 10x zoom range for amazingly clear images. In addition, you get an optical resolution of 16 MP, 1080p. video quality and a stabilization sensor that helps reduce blur and degradation whenever the camera is zoomed in.

An advanced filter is available as well for special photo effects that can be easily checked and chosen with the help of the 2.7-inch LCD monitor. Moreover, you will be able to shoot at up to 10 frames per second or 60 frames per second if you select ultra-high-speed bursts with the powerful CMOS sensor. The burst mode is activated by the single press of a button so you will be able to capture the exact picture at the perfect moment. And if you are planning on shooting some wildlife frames, you will find the remote shooting function super useful as it allows you to control the camera from distance through an app that installs on your phone in no time.

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11. PANASONIC DMC-TS30R

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With a sleek but solid design, this model is ready to accompany you everywhere, no matter if you need to take pictures at a fancy party or you are going snorkeling, scuba diving, climbing, hiking or skiing. Waterproof to 26 ft., freezeproof to 14 degrees F, dustproof and shockproof to 5 ft., it will help you capture amazing landscapes and portraits in any type of environment. The mega O.I.S camera lens removes blurring caused by shaking the camera and offers clear and vivid 16 MP pictures. Moreover, there’s a mode for underwater filming that compensates for the lack of red tones and helps you obtain more natural photos.

It allows you to take stills or 720p videos and you can easily switch between photo and video with a single push of a button. Furthermore, if you ever run out of space on your SD card, the built-in 220 MB memory will kick in and allow you to take an extra 34 photos. You will be able to use the 4x optical zoom to concentrate on details, while the torchlight will help you record impeccable videos even if the light is dimmer. Plus, you get the time-lapse function to help you concentrate long-time events in a single, more alert video.

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Conclusion

To conclude, there’s a great camera for everyone, and these rugged models are loaded with options and can provide quality photos and videos in a great variety of environments. You just need to pick one for your upcoming adventures and it will help you capture and lock forever all those amazing landscapes and sites the underwater kingdom has to offer.

Best Overall Underwater/Waterproof Camera: Sony DSC-TX30/B

It offers an amazing 18.2 MP optical resolution so you can capture only quality images. The included 8 GB flash memory allows you to record hours of high definition videos and you will be able to play them back on the large 3.3-inch OLED display. Moreover, it includes many stabilization features designed to reduce blurring effects and offer only crisp-clear images.
Although it has a nice, sleek design, this doesn’t mean that it isn’t sturdy. In fact, it is not only waterproof to a depth of 33 feet but it is shockproof and will resist a fall from a 5-foot height. Plus, it can resist dust and extreme temperatures, being a great choice for travel enthusiasts.

Editor’s Choice: GoPro CHDHX-701

Built to record incredibly clear videos right in the middle of the action, this camera is up for some great adventures. It features an outstanding 4k video resolution and comes with a stabilization function that provides gimbal-like shooting and footage. You can control it by voice, so you will be able to enjoy more freedom of movement, while the rugged construction will keep it intact underwater down to a depth of 33 feet.

Best Underwater/Waterproof Camera for the Money: Fujifilm 16544125

This is a medium-priced model that has become very popular among buyers due to its reliable, rugged construction and the multitude of functions it has to offer. First of all, it comes with a 16.4 MP BSI-CMOS sensor, which is already an extra for the price. The optical zoom is 5x and it can record videos in HD with a resolution of 1080p., just like its more expensive competitors. Plus, it allows you to make cinemagraphs, panoramas, and time-lapse movies.

Best Underwater/Waterproof Camera for Scuba Diving: Nikon K-98622-01

Designed to resist the deeps of the ocean, this camera won’t let you down even if you decide to scuba dive, as it is waterproof down to 100 ft. Provided with GPS and Wifi, it will help you keep track of your road by marking the pictures, and you will be able to transfer your records on-site so everybody can see them as soon as possible.

Best Underwater/Waterproof Camera for Macro Photography: Olympus V104210RU000

Macro photography can be a tough hobby but it is for sure one of the most rewarding, especially if you choose the right camera. We must say, when it comes to this type of shooting, Olympus V104210RU000 is king and many photographers choose it for its variable macro system that is comprised of 4 macro shooting modes and offers magnified shooting up to 1 cm. from the end of the lens. These, combined with an excellent 12 MP sensor and an 8x zoom help to create the most amazing and incredibly clear macro photos.