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10 Best Underwater Cameras 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

GoPro HERO13 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Video, 27MP Photo + Compatability with HB-Series Lenses

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,223
Waterproof Depth Rating
Image Quality
Video Quality

Most important from
696 reviews

Waterproof Depth Rating
Super easy to set up and use, plus the waterproof feature is awesome for beach trips and underwater shots.
Image Quality
Very good picture quality, making it a great choice for capturing vibrant images.
Video Quality
The video quality is unreal—sharp, smooth, and crystal clear, even when on the move.
Durability and Build Quality
Held up like a champ during various adventures.
Ease of Use
Super easy to set up and use, plus the waterproof feature is awesome for beach trips and underwater shots.

The GoPro HERO13 Black is a standout option for anyone seeking an underwater camera, particularly those who value high-quality video and durability. Its impressive 5.3K60 video resolution means you can capture stunning underwater scenes with clarity, making it ideal for both casual use and more serious underwater exploration. The 27MP photo capability is another strong point, allowing for vibrant images that can capture the beauty of marine life and underwater landscapes. Its compatibility with HB-Series lenses expands creative options, catering to those who may want to experiment with different perspectives.

When it comes to durability, the HERO13 Black is built to withstand harsh underwater conditions, boasting a solid waterproof depth rating. This means you can confidently take it diving or snorkeling without worrying about damaging the camera. The battery life is also improved, enabling longer shooting sessions, which is especially beneficial for longer adventures.

While the camera excels in video quality, the small screen size of 2.27 inches might make it challenging to frame shots accurately, especially underwater where visibility can be limited. Additionally, navigating through the camera's features may require a bit of a learning curve for those not used to action cameras. The reliance on micro SD for storage might also mean that users need to invest in quality memory cards to ensure smooth video capture without interruptions. The GoPro HERO13 Black is versatile, and its advanced features cater well to those who are passionate about underwater photography and videography, providing an excellent balance of performance, durability, and creative potential.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,223
Waterproof Depth Rating
Image Quality
Video Quality

Most important from
696 reviews

Waterproof Depth Rating
Super easy to set up and use, plus the waterproof feature is awesome for beach trips and underwater shots.
Image Quality
Very good picture quality, making it a great choice for capturing vibrant images.
Video Quality
The video quality is unreal—sharp, smooth, and crystal clear, even when on the move.
Durability and Build Quality
Held up like a champ during various adventures.
Ease of Use
Super easy to set up and use, plus the waterproof feature is awesome for beach trips and underwater shots.
#2

AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with EIS Ultra HD 131FT Waterproof Underwater Camera Remote Control 4X Zoom Support External Microphone Black

Rating
10.0
Image Quality
Lens and Zoom
Video Quality

Most important from
36233 reviews

Image Quality
High color sensitivity and well-balanced visuals ensure nothing looks washed-out.
Lens and Zoom
The video quality is excellent, and the lens captures a very wide area.
Video Quality
The video quality is crisp and clear even in dim lighting.
Battery Life
Battery life is surprisingly solid, with hours of usage without needing a swap.

The AKASO EK7000 is a solid choice for those looking for an underwater camera that captures stunning visuals. With its 4K Ultra HD video capability and 20MP photo resolution, it delivers impressive image quality that outshines standard HD cameras. The built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) helps ensure smooth video footage, making it ideal for action shots, even when you're moving quickly. With a waterproof depth rating of up to 131 feet, this camera can handle a variety of underwater activities, which is a significant advantage for divers or snorkelers.

It has some limitations. While the camera is packed with features, the included wireless wrist remote is not waterproof, which can be a concern if you're shooting in wet conditions and need to control the camera remotely. Additionally, the 2-inch screen may feel a bit small for framing your shots accurately. Battery life is decent but might require bringing extra batteries for longer outings, especially if you're recording in 4K.

The camera’s connectivity options, including built-in Wi-Fi and HDMI, allow for easy sharing and editing of your footage, but you’ll need to purchase a microSD card separately. The AKASO EK7000 is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an affordable action camera with good image quality and waterproof capabilities, though some users may need to factor in its limitations regarding remote control and battery endurance.

Rating
10.0
Image Quality
Lens and Zoom
Video Quality

Most important from
36233 reviews

Image Quality
High color sensitivity and well-balanced visuals ensure nothing looks washed-out.
Lens and Zoom
The video quality is excellent, and the lens captures a very wide area.
Video Quality
The video quality is crisp and clear even in dim lighting.
Battery Life
Battery life is surprisingly solid, with hours of usage without needing a swap.
#3

OM System Tough TG-7 Red Underwater Camera, Waterproof, Freeze Proof, High Resolution Bright, 4K Video 44x Macro Shooting (Successor Olympus TG-6)

Rating
9.9
Image Quality
Lens and Zoom
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
302 reviews

Image Quality
The camera's performance in underwater photography is especially commendable with sharp, vibrant photos.
Lens and Zoom
A significant improvement over the TG-3 with better grips, zoom level, and a solid feel.
Durability and Build Quality
Highly recommended for rock solid performance and durability in harsh industrial environments.
Ease of Use
Versatile built-in modes for different activities, including underwater HDR and macro modes.

The OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 is a solid choice for those looking to dive into underwater photography. With a waterproof depth rating of 15 meters (about 50 feet), it’s designed to withstand the elements, making it a great companion for snorkeling and swimming. Its freezeproof capability down to -10°C adds to its versatility in cold environments. Users will appreciate the bright, high-speed F2.0 zoom lens that enhances image quality, especially in low light, and the camera's ability to shoot in RAW format allows for greater editing flexibility.

The video quality is impressive, capable of 4K video recording, which is perfect for capturing vibrant underwater scenes. The image stabilization feature helps reduce blur, especially in active scenarios, which is a nice touch for beginners or those unfamiliar with photography techniques. The camera's compact build and lightweight design (just 1.2 pounds) make it easy to carry on adventures.

The TG-7 shines in many areas, but it's not without its drawbacks. The effective still resolution is 12 MP, which is decent but may not meet the expectations of users seeking higher resolutions for large prints. Additionally, the battery life could be better, especially when recording video; users might want to consider carrying a spare battery for extended outings. The camera does have a bit of a learning curve due to its many features and settings, which might initially overwhelm amateurs. Also, while the connectivity options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow for easy sharing, they may not be essential for all users.

Rating
9.9
Image Quality
Lens and Zoom
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
302 reviews

Image Quality
The camera's performance in underwater photography is especially commendable with sharp, vibrant photos.
Lens and Zoom
A significant improvement over the TG-3 with better grips, zoom level, and a solid feel.
Durability and Build Quality
Highly recommended for rock solid performance and durability in harsh industrial environments.
Ease of Use
Versatile built-in modes for different activities, including underwater HDR and macro modes.

Buying Guide for the Best Underwater Cameras

Choosing the right underwater camera can be a bit challenging, but with the right approach, you can find a model that fits your needs perfectly. Underwater cameras are designed to withstand the pressures of being submerged while capturing high-quality images and videos. When selecting an underwater camera, it's important to consider several key specifications that will impact your overall experience and the quality of your photos and videos. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the best camera for your underwater adventures.
Waterproof Depth RatingThe waterproof depth rating indicates how deep the camera can go underwater without being damaged. This spec is crucial because it determines the environments in which you can use the camera. Cameras with a depth rating of up to 10 meters are suitable for snorkeling and shallow dives. For scuba diving, look for cameras with a depth rating of 30 meters or more. If you plan to dive deeper, you may need a camera with a depth rating of 60 meters or higher. Choose a depth rating based on the type of underwater activities you plan to engage in.
Image QualityImage quality is determined by the camera's sensor size and resolution. A larger sensor and higher resolution will generally produce better images, especially in low-light conditions underwater. Cameras with a resolution of 12-20 megapixels are typically sufficient for most users, providing clear and detailed photos. If you are a professional or want the highest quality images, look for cameras with higher resolution and larger sensors. Consider your need for high-quality images and how you plan to use them when choosing the right image quality for you.
Lens and ZoomThe lens and zoom capabilities of an underwater camera affect how close you can get to your subject and the overall versatility of the camera. Fixed lenses are common in compact underwater cameras and are suitable for general use. If you need more flexibility, look for cameras with optical zoom, which allows you to get closer to your subject without losing image quality. A zoom range of 3x to 5x is usually adequate for most underwater photography. Choose a lens and zoom based on the type of shots you want to capture and the distance from your subjects.
Video QualityVideo quality is important if you plan to capture underwater footage. Look for cameras that can record in at least 1080p Full HD resolution. For higher quality videos, consider cameras that offer 4K resolution. Additionally, check the frame rate; 30 frames per second (fps) is standard, but 60 fps or higher will provide smoother video, especially for fast-moving subjects. Choose video quality based on how you plan to use the footage and the level of detail you want to capture.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long you can use the camera before needing to recharge or replace the battery. This is particularly important for underwater cameras, as changing batteries underwater is not possible. Look for cameras with a battery life that suits your typical usage duration. For short snorkeling trips, a battery life of 1-2 hours may be sufficient. For longer dives or extended use, consider cameras with longer battery life or the option to use external battery packs. Choose based on the length of your underwater activities and how often you can recharge.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality are essential for underwater cameras, as they need to withstand harsh conditions. Look for cameras with robust, shockproof, and freeze-proof designs to ensure they can handle accidental drops and extreme temperatures. A well-built camera will last longer and perform better in challenging environments. Choose a camera with a build quality that matches the intensity of your underwater activities and the conditions you expect to encounter.
Ease of UseEase of use is important, especially when operating a camera underwater. Look for cameras with intuitive controls, large buttons, and easy-to-navigate menus. Some cameras offer touchscreens that work underwater, while others have physical buttons designed for use with gloves. Consider how comfortable you are with the camera's interface and how easy it is to operate in the water. Choose a camera that you can use effortlessly, allowing you to focus on capturing great shots.

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