We all love to take nice pictures, mostly if they are in fun places. However, there are instances where you are forced to take pictures under water or on a rainy day and all you need to get the best shots is a waterproof digital camera. The good news is that there are tons of them out there today, thanks to the improved technology. However, you need to only get the best that stands out. In this guide, we will go through some of the things to look for when choosing a good waterproof camera and also review some of the handpicked cameras that are worth investing in.
Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera
High quality, Affordable & Dependable
Dragon touch is an incredible performer when it comes to underwater photography and taking videos. It features a high resolution 4K capability and comes fully loaded with features to enable one to take quality footage while underwater. Divers can use it for up to 30 meters getting the best shots. It is also equipped with a nice zoom function that comes in handy when dealing with smaller objects. Anyone looking for an affordable and high performing underwater action camera will love this.
Best Waterproof Digital Camera 2023
Here is a detailed review and countdown of the best digital cameras that you can use to take pictures and videos under water.
9. APEMAN Action Camera
Price: Low price tag.
Special features: Ultra Full HD, 2.4G remote control, 2 LCD display.
This Apeman Action camera is a digital waterproof camera that has been designed with simplicity but efficiency in mind. It comes packed with a 20 accessories kit that including 2 rechargeable batteries. It offers 16 MP of loop recording, time lapse and burst photo capabilities which works with the advanced sensor and capture timer to give users perfect shots.
Other lovable features of this digital camera include the built-in WiFi and HDMI output as well as the 2 inch LCD display. If you are looking for an affordable digital waterproof camera that is above average, then this is a good option that is worth considering.
Pros and Cons
- It comes at a price that is hard to beat.
- It has an excellent battery life and functionality.
- The lighting of the camera could be improved for better performance.
8. Nikon COOLPIX W300
Price: Highly priced.
Special features: GPS, 4K Ultra HD video capability, 3-Inch OLED LCD, 5x optical zoom, Waterproof and freezeproof.
Nikon COOLPIX W300 is a high resolution, solidly built waterproof digital camera that is designed to be used under any weather condition. It can be mounted on almost anything and be used to take videos and photos anywhere. With an exceptionally high resolution of 4K Full HD video, you are getting one of the best qualities with a camera of this class.
It holds up pretty perfectly and handles any rough handling even when dropped, thanks tot he sturdy casing that it comes with. If you give quality and performance priority and won’t mind paying higher for something better and superior, then get this digital camera.
Pros and Cons
- It is sturdily built for harsh weather conditions and increased durability.
- The quality of photos and videos it delivers is excellent.
- It is pricier than most in the market.
7. Canon PowerShot D20
Price: Highly priced.
Special features: 5x image stabilized zoom, DIGIC 4 Image Processor, Shockproof, Built-in GPS.
Heavily equipped with some of the latest and most advanced camera features, the Canon Powershot D20 is undeniably one of the best performance waterproof digital cameras that one can come across. Able to resist any water up to 33 feet in depth, this sturdily built camera has an ISO 100-3200 certification, making it one of the best qualities one can find. The camera is not only waterproof but also shock-proof up to 5 feet.
It is the ultimate camera for any outdoor fanatic as it comes with plenty of features like GPS, tracker and a CMOS sensor. This digital camera is without a doubt one of the most highly equipped which better justifies its high price tag.
Pros and Cons
- It is packed with many advanced outdoor and under water features.
- The quality of photos and videos it offers is outstanding.
- It is pricier than most waterproof digital cameras.
6. PANASONIC LUMIX Waterproof Digital Camera
Price: Fairly priced.
Special features: Optical Image Stabilizer, Torch light, Time lapse.
The Panasonic Lumix digital camera is a high quality underwater camcorder that boasts an array of high end features which improves user experience and encourages taking of better shots. It comes with a 220 MB built-in memory, enough to take tons of pics and videos. It features a red color reproduction functionality to compensate for red tones with a lot of ease.
If you like to take dynamic videos and pictures underwater, then you should have your Panasonic Lumix by your side. It is fairly affordable and gives users value for the money.
Pros and Cons
- The camera has a good battery life.
- It takes high resolution images.
- Does not allow users to go deep as it can start letting in water.
5. AKASO Brave 4 4K WiFi Action Camera
Price: Fairly priced.
Special features: Remote control, Optional view angle, Built in smart gyroscope.
The Akaso Brave 4 action digital camera is a high quality underwater camcorder that is powered by 2 batteries. It comes with an array of highly functional features that improves the whole performance and user experience. It comes with a built-in gyroscope to guarantee users with better stability and anti-shaking when moving while taking videos or pictures.
It offers waterproofing for depths of up to 100 feet when used with the waterproof casing that it comes with. The digital camera is an excellent choice for a number of things including water sports, swimming, surfing and deep diving ranges of up to 30 meters.
Pros and Cons
- Can be used for up to 30 meters deep.
- It is stable and offers clear footage taking.
- Some people feel that the light could be improved in the camera.
4. Victure AC920 4K Action Camera
Price: Low price tag.
Special features: BUILT-IN Wifi, Adjustable exposure, 4K multi-functionality, image stabalizer,
Victure AC920 is one of the most advanced digital cameras that offer underwater capabilities. It has 4K capabilities, a WiFi, 20 MP camera clarity and amazing multi-functional functionalities such as the 180° Rotation, burst photo function, looping video, time lapse, 8X zoom, slow or fast motion etc. Divers and under-water photographers can enjoy taking shots for as deep as 40 meters, thanks to the hard casing and materials used in making this digital camera.
One can easily make tons of adjustments to comfortably take shots that are clear and as desired. Overall, it is an excellent high resolution camera that delivers on its promise.
Pros and Cons
- It offers flexible working options.
- The camera offers high resolution and clear footage.
- Image stabilization could be improved.
3. GoPro HERO9
Price: Highly priced.
Special features: HyperSmooth Video Stabilization, Touch rear screen, 5K Ultra High quality resolution.
GoPro is full of amazement and you can find people using GoPro all over. From sky divers to deep sea divers, GoPro is a brand that has dominated the camera world. GoPro Hero 9 is one of the latest and most sophisticated digital camera options that one can get. It is rugged, waterproof and offers high quality picture quality.
It comes with a HyperSmooth video stabilization function that ensures that users get still footages with better clarity. It surely comes packed with tons of high end features, which better explains the hefty price tag that the digital camera comes with.
Pros and Cons
- It takes breathtaking images and videos.
- It is made of rugged and durable materials.
- It is pricier than most in the market.
2. Campark ACT74 Action Camera
Price: Low price tag.
Special features: Ultra wide angle lens, Mounting accessories kit, WiFi remote control 4K recording.
Campark ACT74 Action Camera is a good quality underwater camera that comes with a high quality body and casing. It features a wide angle lens that can cover up to 170 degrees which by industry standards is excellent. There is a high performance sensor which further boost usability ion underwater photography. It offers high quality 4K recording for up to 30 meters deep.
It is compatible with multiple operating systems including iOS and Android. Anyone looking for a high quality digital camera that they can use outdoors as well as underwater will love the experience that comes with this one.
Pros and Cons
- It is very affordable.
- The camera offers high resolution images.
- The sound quality isn’t the best.
1. Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera
Price: Low price tag.
Special features: Wireless wrist remote control, 4X zoom with 4K quality.
The best selling underwater digital camera is the Dragon touch 4K action camera. Coming from a company that has been in the industry for a while, it is obvious why they rank top among dozens in its class. The camera is compact and designed for easy handling. It offers a zoom range from 1.0X to 4.0X and a WiFi range of up to 33 feet.
It is a versatile and high performing underwater digital camera that is reliable and dependable for up to 30 meters underwater. Surprising enough, this 4K digital camera also happens to be one of the most affordable options one can get.
Pros and Cons
- The camera is very affordable.
- It is versatile and compact.
- There is room to improve on color balancing.
Choosing The Best Waterproof Digital Camera
Before delving deep into the review, here are some of the things you need to keep in mind when buying a waterproof digital camera.
Video Capabilities
While most of the modern digital cameras come with video capabilities intact, you need to make sure that the resolution, flexibility, and ease of using the video feature is what you desire. Some have this capability but don’t have a good resolution hence blurring your shots which makes the feature pointless. If you are really into taking cutting edge shots underwater or when it’s raining outside, you should go for at least a Full HD 1080p digital camera resolution.
Other Advanced Features And Protection
Besides being waterproof, you should make sure that your digital camera offers you all the features that you need to get the best out of it. It is also equally important to get one that offers you more protection. Some of the other protection that you can find with these cameras includes being dust-proof, shockproof, while some are even freeze proof which is perfect for those who love to scale the Alps. Although these advanced features and protection tend to hike the price, they are worth it.
Budget
Cameras come with different price tags, and they can get very expensive. Whether you are getting DSLR’s or mirror-less cameras, the prices differ based on the features and functionalities that they come with. As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for, with waterproof digital cameras, the more features you have on the camera, the pricier it will be. To pick the best for the right price, you should make sure to get one that offers you the features and capabilities that you will need.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, these are some of the best waterproof digital cameras that you can easily use to get the best pictures and videos under water. So, if you love snorkeling or taking photos in the jungle on a rainy day, these digital cameras are a must have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do underwater cameras work?
A: Wondering how underwater digital cameras are able to resist water from entering the camera and allowing people to record themselves under water? They work similarly to any other conventional digital camera. The only difference standing between them is that underwater cameras have strong casing and are sealed tight to prevent water and pressure from letting in water.
Q: Can underwater cameras be used on land?
A: Contrary to what people think that underwater cameras are only meant to be used when diving, they too can also be used on land. They have all the features that every other camera has and function similarly, only that they have better casing and well sealed to be used underwater.
Q: What is the difference between underwater and waterproof cameras?
A: Common waterproof cameras are designed to resist water from entering the camera. However, when a camera is classified as an underwater camera, it means that it can be used as both waterproof and underwater. The difference is mostly in the casing where the underwater is more equipped and better insulated for diving.
Q: Should I get an underwater camera?
A: Underwater cameras are meant to be used by divers and people who intend to take videos and photos under the water. This could be in the swimming pool, in the sea, in the pool and any other water body. If you intend to be doing this, then you should get yourself an underwater camera.
