10 Best Waterproof Digital Cameras 2025 in the United States

The GoPro HERO13 Black stands out as a top choice for a waterproof digital camera, especially for action enthusiasts. Its impressive waterproof depth rating means it can handle underwater adventures with ease, making it ideal for divers and swimmers. The 27MP photo capabilities combined with a 5.3K60 video resolution ensure that users capture high-quality images and videos. The CMOS sensor technology helps improve image clarity and performance in various lighting situations.

Durability is a hallmark of GoPro products, and the HERO13 Black continues this tradition, designed to withstand rough handling and extreme conditions, which is perfect for outdoor and action photography. The camera’s build quality ensures longevity, and its compact size and lightweight nature make it easy to carry around without feeling cumbersome. The battery life, while improved, may still require users to carry spares for extended shooting sessions. The 2.27-inch screen size is adequate for framing shots and reviewing footage, but some users might find it a bit small for detailed viewing.

The ease of use is enhanced by intuitive controls and compatibility with HB-Series lenses, offering flexibility in shooting options. Additional features such as USB connectivity, support for various audio formats, and Micro SD flash memory increase the camera’s versatility. The GoPro HERO13 Black is an excellent choice for those needing a robust, high-quality waterproof camera, but users should be mindful of its battery life and screen size limitations.

The GoPro Hero12 Black is a robust waterproof action camera designed for extreme environments, capable of submersion up to 33ft (10m). With its 27MP photo capability and 5.3K60 ultra HD video, it offers stunning image quality and high detail, enhanced further by its 1/1.9'' image sensor and HDR functionality. The camera's Emmy award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization ensures smooth footage even in shaky conditions, and the 360° horizon lock feature keeps videos level without the need for additional gimbals.

Battery life is considerably extended with the Enduro battery, allowing up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at high resolution, which is ideal for long adventures. Additional features like Bluetooth audio connectivity and an expansive field of view make it versatile for various uses, including live streaming and capturing immersive POV shots. However, at 12 ounces, it is relatively heavy for an action camera, which might be a downside for some users.

The 2.3-inch screen size might be smaller than expected for those who prefer larger displays, and the maximum aperture of 2.5 f, while decent, is not the best for low-light conditions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the GoPro Hero12 Black stands out as a high-performing waterproof camera well-suited for adventurers and extreme sports enthusiasts who demand top-notch video and image quality.

The AKASO EK7000 is an action camera that excels in providing high-quality underwater photography and videography, making it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With a waterproof depth rating of up to 131 feet, this camera is well-suited for a variety of water-based activities like snorkeling and surfing. The 4K video recording capability and 20MP still photo quality ensure that users can capture stunning visuals in both clarity and detail. Additionally, the built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) helps to produce smooth footage, which is a significant advantage if you're moving quickly or in choppy conditions.

In terms of durability, the AKASO EK7000 is designed to withstand harsh environments, thanks to its robust waterproof case. This makes it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. The inclusion of a wireless wrist remote adds a layer of convenience, enabling easier shot framing and recording. However, the remote itself is not waterproof, which limits its usability in certain scenarios.

Battery life is generally adequate, but users should consider having additional batteries on hand for extended trips, as action cameras can quickly drain power, especially when recording in high resolutions. The camera's ease of use is a bonus, as it features a simple interface and built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing of content via the AKASO GO app. The absence of a microSD card in the package means that users will need to purchase one separately, adding to the overall cost. With a bit of care, the AKASO EK7000 can be a fantastic choice for anyone looking to capture their underwater adventures.