Are you prepared to buy an underwater camera and get started in the addictive hobby of underwater photography? If so, you’ve undoubtedly noticed that there are many attractive cameras available. We’ve reviewed 15 of the top underwater cameras that will be available in 2024 to make your selection easier.
Each has special selling characteristics of its own, which we’ve listed below. All you have to do is determine your budget and consider the features that you require. In addition, we go over some of the most important things to think about before making a purchase if you need to know a little more about underwater cameras.
Insta360 ONE R
With its inventive and imaginative tools, Insta360 has successfully carved out a new market niche for action cameras. Since its founding in 2014, the business has rapidly surged to the top of its sector and emerged as a global leader in 360-degree video cameras, producing high-caliber goods like the Insta360 One X.
Building on this success, Insta360 unveiled the ambitious ONE R, a platform that is modular and enables users to quickly switch between different types of cameras.
When buying the ONE R, there are several options available, which we’ll discuss later. While the 1-Inch Edition has a 5.3K shooter with a 1-inch sensor, the Twin Edition has a 4K wide-angle shooter and 360-degree cam options.
We’ll be concentrating on the Twin Edition in this review because of its 360-degree cam options and 4K wide-angle shooter.
Specifications & Features
- Temperature rating: -20 to 40 Celsius (-4 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit)
- White balance modes: Auto, 2700K, 4000K, 5000K, 6500K
- AquaVision auto-editing option for more natural underwater colours
- Modules: 1 x 5.7K 360-degree, 1 x wide-angle 4K and 1 x wide-angle 5.3K with 1-inch sensor
- Battery: 1190mAh rechargeable
Insta360 X3
The market for underwater cameras has really taken off in the last few decades. These have included small cameras like the Olympus Tough, action cameras like the Insta360 X3, and cameras designed specifically for underwater use like the Sealife Micro 3.0.
We believe that the Insta360 X3 is the best 360˚ camera available, despite not being the first of its kind. With multiple resolutions for its seven video modes and five photo modes, the X3 offers an extensive editing suite within the app. Thanks to artificial intelligence (AI), this X3 can record and stitch 360 degrees of footage in real time with ease. The X3 can descend to 50 metres (165 feet) using its compatible Invisible Dive Case, bringing the immersive aquarium experience back to the surface.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 46 x 114 x 33 mm
- Weight: 180g
- Image Quality: 72MP (11968×5984); 18MP (5952×2976)
- Video Quality: 360: 5.7K @30/25/24fps; 4K @60/50/30/25/24fps; 3K @100fps
- Single Lens Mode: 4K @ 30/25/24fps; 3.6K @ 60/50/30/25/24fps; 2.7K @60/50/30/25/24fps; 1080P @ 60/50/30/25/24fps
Olympus Tough TG-6
The Olympus Tough is a good option if you’re searching for a waterproof camera that is incredibly dependable and durable. The fact that this underwater camera is freezeproof, crushproof, shockproof, and waterproof makes it stand out from the competition.
In addition to being robust, it produces high-quality images and has 4K resolution for capturing a drop of water. With an eight-times zoom, the Olympus Tough makes it simple to capture minute details in the distance. The image quality is bright and vivid even in the absence of editing.
With its extremely special lens, the Olympus TG-6 allows for amazing macro photography without the need for an external lens. Despite the lack of a full manual mode, the microscope mode enables focusing down to 25mm, so you can get really good shots with this small, portable camera.
With five underwater shooting modes, the Tough underwater camera is ideal for shallow dives, snorkelling, and swimming, but it can also be used for other outdoor activities.
This underwater camera, which is among the most robust options available, is a fantastic option for shallow dives, snorkelling, and individuals seeking a portable camera.
Specifications & Features
- Maximum depth rating: 15m/50ft (45mts/150ft in a housing)
- Dimensions: 66 x 117 x 33 mm
- Weight: 60 grams
- 4K resolution
- Five underwater shooting modes
PANASONIC LUMIX LX10 4K
The Panasonic Lumix offers 4K video capabilities that are lively and fluid. Comparable to the GoPro, the Lumix produces images with exceptional quality that let you fully immerse yourself in the outside world while looking through your collection.
You can effortlessly tilt this underwater camera 180 degrees upwards, which allows you to take amazing selfies both above and below the water. It has a 20-megapixel camera with three times the zoom, which is more than enough to produce excellent images with little work.
We appreciate how easy and quick it is to transfer photos via USB and wifi. There are USB 2.0 micro-B ports and a micro HDMI slot on the Lumix LX10 4K camera.Ideal for divers who wish to use a high-definition camera to swiftly and effortlessly record stunning moments.
Ideal for divers who wish to use a high-definition camera to swiftly and effortlessly record stunning moments.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 40 x 106 x 61 mm
- Weight: 310 grams
- 260 shots per charge
- 4K HD resolution
- Fast lens and shutter speeds
Sealife Micro 3.0
This camera is an excellent blend of historical sealife cameras such as the DC2000 and GoPro substitutes. For many years, Sealife has been producing underwater cameras. To create this basic all-purpose underwater camera, they have combined action camera technology with specialised software.
This is incredibly user-friendly, adaptable, and reasonably priced, making it a great option for novices.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions:107 x 53 x 74 mm / 4.2 x 2.1 x 2.9″
- Sensor: 16MP SONY® 1/2.3” Image Sensor
- Lens 100°: Wide Angle Lens
- Video: 4K@30fps or 1080p@120 fps Video
- Weight: 329 gr
Panasonic Lumix LX100 II
The next-generation Panasonic LX10 that we previously reviewed is the Lumix LX100. In contrast to its predecessor, the LX100 II is equipped with mechanisms that guarantee steady footage and sharp pictures by preventing hand tremors.
This camera’s 4K HD resolution produces excellent images and videos, making it simple to record all of your underwater moments. Apart from its housing, it’s also a great on-land camera.
The macro shooting mode is our favourite; it’s great for shrimp and nudis. Furthermore, it has an amazing zoom that allows it to clearly capture even the smallest details in the distance. The LX100 II is highly regarded by vloggers, casual photographers, and passionate underwater photographers for its superb image and video quality and ease of use.
There is no better camera than the Lumix LX100 II if you want something simple to use that functions just as well underwater as it does on land.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 115 x 66 x 64 mm
- Weight: 390 grams
- 4K HD resolution
- Anti-shake function
- Macro mode
ALSO READ : 6 Underwater Macro Photography Techniques
Sony RX100 VII Premium
The Sony RX100 is a high-end compact camera, as its name implies, and you can anticipate remarkable detail and precision from it. It was even named the best budget compact camera by Techcrunch.
This camera performs admirably both above and below the waves with its 4K HD resolution; just remember to bring your housing!
A 20.1 megapixel 1.0 type stacked CMOS sensor, Zeiss Vario Sonnar, super-fast autofocus, and a high magnification zoom lens are just a few of the desirable features that contribute to the Sony RX100’s high performance quality.
The external microphone jack is great for filming on land, and we adore it. The 24-200mm zoom lens also ensures clarity and depth in every detail when shooting underwater photos.
In the compact camera market, the Sony RX100 is one of the top models. It’s the best option if you want to advance your photography.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 101 x 43 x 61 mm
- Weight: 277 grams
- 4K HD resolution
- Intuitive, user-friendly design
- 1.0 Type stacked CMOS sensor
Canon G7x Mark II
In the camera industry, Canon is a well-known brand that has earned consumers’ trust over the years. Thus, the G7x Mark II camera produces crisp, high-quality images as one might anticipate.
With a 20.1-megapixel lens and clever point-and-shoot functions, shooting high-quality photos is simple. Numerous accessories, including an additional battery pack, memory card wallet, lens pen, HDMI cable, screen protectors, microfiber cloth, cleaning solution, and cotton swabs, are included with the Canon G7x Bundle as a whole.
Additionally, a 30 cm flexible spider tripod is included so you can mount the camera wherever you want and capture the best possible image. Canon’s new DIGIX 7 processor works well underwater, providing improved RAW capture and faster autofocus. Furthermore, we enjoy the one-touch custom white balance feature.
A fantastic investment for any photographer looking for a flexible camera, the G7X completes the task with the least amount of work on your part.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 213 x 167 x 160 mm
- Weight: 1247 grams
- 4.2X Optical lens
- 76 mm touch display
- 4K video recording
Sony Alpha a7II
The Sony Alpha a7III is a one-stop shop for underwater photographers seeking high-quality underwater photography. Featuring the first five-axis image stabilisation design in the world, this exceptional 24.3-megapixel camera ensures that every detail is captured flawlessly, allowing for amazing shots even when you’re swaying in the current. The quality of the video is also outstanding.
You can explore the reef with confidence knowing your camera is safe when you pair your Sony a7II with an Ikelite housing. You won’t feel burdened by it either, as the Alpha a7II’s mirrorless design makes it significantly lighter than you might think for all its features.
All things considered, this camera is a good choice, particularly if you want the amazing stand-still image technology.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 127 x 60 x 96 mm
- Weight: 598 grams
- 24.3 MP HD camera
- 76 mm display screen
- Five-axis in-body image stabilisation
Nikon COOLPIX W300
The Nikon COOLPIX is an excellent choice if you’re searching for an underwater camera that is durable and doesn’t require a housing. We adore that this clever little camera has dust-, shock, freeze, and waterproof resistance.
Use it for any outdoor activity you choose, such as swimming, diving, climbing, trekking, kayaking, and more. You can take excellent pictures with the 4K HD camera and easily capture details in the distance thanks to the 5X zoom lens.
A courageous little camera that is the ideal travel companion. Go swimming, diving, hiking, and more with it.
Specifications & Features
- Depth rated to 30m/100ft
- Dimensions: 50 x 50 x 50 mm
- Weight: 431 grams
- Nikkor telephoto lens
- 16.0 Megapixels
Underwater Camera FHD
There isn’t a better underwater camera than this affordable and cheerful model to bring on your next snorkelling vacation. It is very affordable at less than $100 USD and performs exactly as promised.
Remarkably, for the price range, it provides a 68 mm screen, 48 megapixels, and image stabilisation, among other cool features. Its depth rating is also 3 metres/10 feet, so if you plan to stay on the surface, you can take happy photos knowing your camera won’t flood.
We also appreciate that it is sturdy enough to withstand some sand in between swims and snorkelling, and that it is available in a range of funky colours.
This underwater camera is ideal for taking surface photos of the reef and gathering family beach photos. You also won’t be disappointed if it disappears given the price.
Specifications & Features
- Depth rating of 3m/10ft
- Dimensions: 162 x 152 x 63 mm
- Weight: 317 grams
- 16X Digital zoom
- Full HD 1080P/30 frames per second video
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Every dedicated underwater photographer must eventually upgrade from a compact to a full DSLR. The best way to update your equipment is with the Canon EOS 6D; its compact design makes it seem even more amazing. Its DSLR functionality is unmatched.
With its 4K HD photos and videos, fast and precise focus, 26.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, and Canon’s exceptional DIGIC 7 processor, it produces fantastic results even when using higher ISO settings.
For easier handling of the on-land camera, this version also includes a battery grip. Lenses and other accessories are available for purchase in addition to the EOS 6D Mark II. Examine the Ikelite 200DL for housing options.
For those looking to capture crisp underwater photographs, it’s unquestionably a fantastic option. You’ll be impressed, no doubt.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 2310 x 2310 x 2310 mm
- Weight: 2113 grams
- 26.2 Megapixels
- Bluetooth, wifi, and NFC compatible
- Quick autofocus
Canon EOS R5
Everyone is talking about this mirrorless camera. This professional full frame mirrorless camera was made by Canon at a reasonable price.
When this camera is submerged, it becomes an absolute powerhouse despite its small size. Ikelite, Nauticam, Sea and Sea, and other companies offer a variety of housing options. Even Nat Geo will be envious of your setup if you pair this camera with the recently released Canon 100mm Macro lens.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 138 x 97.5 x 88 mm/ 5.43 x 3.84 x 3.46″
- Sensor: 36 x 24 mm (Full-Frame) CMOS
- Video: up to 8K
- Weight: 738 g/ 1.62 lb
- Monitor: 81 mm Free-Angle Tilting Touchscreen LCD
Canon PowerShot G5
When it comes to both image quality and usability, the Canon PowerShot G5 X is among the most dependable cameras on our ranking. It’s ideal for any underwater excursion (when paired with a housing) and various outdoor activities.
You can clearly capture any distant object with a powerful 5X optical zoom. Additionally, there isn’t much need to buy a separate lens because the macro mode is among the best in a compact.
Your photos will look amazing because of the powerful DIGIC 8 processor and 20.1 megapixel CMOS sensor.
We think that this is a good option, and we like that Canon has improved the Mark II even further for underwater photography. a reasonably priced, potent compact.
Specifications & Features
- Dimensions: 457 x 1118 x 610 mm
- Weight: 480 grams
- 20.1 megapixel CMOS sensor
- 5X optical zoom
- 20 frames per second continuous shooting
The Key to Producing Excellent Underwater Images and Videos
You may have the greatest camera on the market, but you still need lighting to take excellent underwater pictures, something that retailers fail to mention at first. Professional underwater images and videos can be achieved with even a basic $300 camera if the lighting is even and powerful.
Both strobes and video lights are available for use underwater. Flashes and strobes are similar in that they both produce brief but intense bursts of light. Of course, this is limited to still images.
Due to their continuous nature, video lights never last more than an hour or so at maximum power and therefore need larger batteries. There is no light source that can match the power of a small strobe, not even one with 10,000 lumens. In light of this, you can shoot stills and video using the same light source thanks to video lights.
Considerations for Purchasing an Underwater Camera
The first thing you must do is figure out your budget. If you haven’t, you risk going over budget and not having enough money for necessary accessories or, worse yet, a place to live!
Next, determine if you anticipate using it for both underwater and above-the-water purposes, or if you want a dedicated underwater camera. If you’re just looking for a scuba camera and you only dive sometimes, you might want to look into a less expensive option.
Consider your needs regarding zoom capabilities and whether or not a macro mode is a necessary feature. Generally speaking, you don’t need a zoom lens when taking underwater photos; the closer you are to the subject, the less water there is between you and the clarity of the shot. If you’re really annoyed by the tiny creatures, think about using a macro mode or decide if you can afford to buy a special macro lens. It’s important to keep in mind that the TG-6’s integrated lens functions exactly like a dedicated macro lens.
A lot of people believe that megapixels are extremely important. They are important, but not as much as the camera sensor in terms of the quality of your images. Choose an underwater camera with a better sensor rather than one with a lot of megapixels. A camera with a high megapixel count but a subpar sensor is not as good as one with 12 megapixels and a high-spec sensor.
ALSO READ : 8 Tips for Liveaboard Safety You Should Know
Final Thoughts
You can select the ideal underwater camera for yourself once you’ve established your needs. Our best choices?
The Canon G7X III is an inexpensive camera with manual DSLR-style controls, excellent image and video quality, and a large sensor array. The Gopro Hero10, which costs less than $400 and produces high-quality videos in a small form factor.
