10 Best Scuba Camera 2025 in the United States

The GoPro HERO13 Black is a high-performance action camera designed for underwater adventures, making it a strong contender for scuba enthusiasts. It boasts an impressive waterproof depth rating, allowing it to function effectively at significant depths without the need for an additional housing. This makes it a convenient option for divers who want to capture high-quality underwater footage without extra gear. The camera excels in image quality with its 27MP photo resolution and offers best-in-class 5.3K60 video capabilities, ensuring stunning and detailed visuals whether in photo or video mode. The addition of the new HB-Series Lenses enhances its versatility, catering to various shooting conditions and creative needs.

The camera's high resolution and video performance come at a cost. The battery life, while improved, can still be a limiting factor during extended diving sessions. It's advisable to carry extra batteries for longer dives to avoid interruptions. Weighing in at just 5.5 ounces and featuring a compact size, it is easy to handle and transport, which is ideal for underwater activities. The 2.27-inch screen size might be a bit small for some users, but it is adequate for framing shots and accessing settings quickly. Durability is one of GoPro's trademarks, and the HERO13 Black is no exception; it's built to withstand the rigors of underwater use and the occasional bump or drop.

Ease of use is another highlight, with intuitive controls and user-friendly menus, although new users might require a short learning curve to get accustomed to its features. In conclusion, the GoPro HERO13 Black is well-suited for scuba divers who prioritize high-quality video and photo capture, along with robust build quality. It’s a reliable choice for those looking to document their underwater experiences vividly and effortlessly.

The OM System Tough TG-7 is a rugged underwater camera designed for harsh conditions, making it an excellent choice for scuba diving and other adventurous activities. With a waterproof depth rating of 50 feet, it can handle most recreational dives, but may not be suitable for deeper, professional underwater expeditions. The camera offers a solid image quality with a 12 MP resolution and supports both JPEG and RAW formats, which will appeal to users who value high-quality photos.

Its variable macro system allows for detailed close-up shots, ideal for capturing underwater life up close. Additionally, the camera's 4K video capabilities and high-speed movie options provide versatility for filmmaking enthusiasts. Weighing just 249 grams, the TG-7 is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around during outdoor activities. Its shockproof, dustproof, crushproof, and freezeproof features further enhance its durability, ensuring it withstands extreme conditions.

However, the battery life could be improved, especially for extended underwater shoots. The fixed LCD screen might limit flexibility in some shooting scenarios. The camera's ease of use is notable, with various shooting modes and automatic settings that cater to amateur photographers. Despite its sturdy build, the TG-7 lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models, which might be a drawback for professional users. This camera is best suited for amateur photographers and adventurers looking for a reliable and durable option for capturing high-quality images and videos in challenging environments.

The GoPro Hero12 Black is a strong choice for a scuba camera, especially for casual to intermediate divers. It is waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), which covers shallow diving and snorkeling but may be limiting for deeper scuba sessions. Image quality is impressive, with 5.3K video resolution and 27MP photos, delivering sharp and vivid underwater shots. The camera’s HDR feature helps capture balanced lighting in tricky underwater conditions, and HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization ensures smooth video even during movement. Battery life is improved with up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at high resolution, supported by the included Enduro battery. In terms of size and weight, it’s compact and lightweight (weighing just 12 ounces), making it easy to carry and handle underwater. The touchscreen interface and wireless connectivity add to ease of use, allowing quick adjustments and remote control if needed.

The build is rugged, designed to handle extreme conditions beyond just water exposure. On the downside, the 10m waterproof rating might not satisfy serious scuba divers who go deeper, and the camera requires additional accessories for mounting on scuba gear. This makes it a versatile and high-quality action camera that performs well for underwater adventures within its depth limit.