10 Best Underwater Cameras 2026 in the United States

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.

The KODAK PIXPRO WPZ2 is a solid choice for underwater photography beginners. It boasts a waterproof depth rating of 15 meters (49 feet), making it suitable for snorkeling and shallow diving. The camera is also shockproof to 2 meters and dustproof, adding to its durability. With a 16MP BSI CMOS sensor, it delivers good image quality for casual photography, though it may not compete with higher-end cameras' resolution.

The 4X optical zoom is handy for capturing details from a distance, but it's somewhat limited for more professional use. The 1080p Full HD video capability is a plus for vlogging, though digital image stabilization means it might not handle shaky hands as well as systems with optical stabilization. Battery life seems adequate for light use, but might require frequent recharges during extended shooting sessions. The 2.7-inch LCD screen is a bit on the small side but is functional for reviewing shots and navigating menus.

WiFi connectivity is a great feature for easy photo sharing and remote camera control. However, the camera lacks advanced features like night vision and audio recording during video capture. It's compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. The KODAK PIXPRO WPZ2 is best for novice photographers looking for a durable, easy-to-use camera for outdoor adventures and casual underwater photography.

The OM SYSTEM Olympus Tough TG-7 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a rugged underwater camera that can handle harsh environments. It’s waterproof and crushproof, designed to survive tough adventures, including underwater use, freezing temperatures, and impacts up to 100 kg. With a 12-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, this camera delivers decent image quality for everyday underwater snapshots, though it won’t match the detail of higher-end cameras with larger sensors.

It offers 4K video recording, which is great for capturing underwater moments in sharp, smooth motion, and the variable macro system allows very close-up shots of tiny subjects, adding creative flexibility. However, stabilization is digital rather than optical, so videos and photos might show some shake if you move quickly underwater. Controls are user-friendly with an automatic autofocus system and manual options, making it accessible for beginners while still letting you experiment with settings.

The camera is lightweight at 249 grams, so it’s easy to carry on dives or trips. Battery life supports around 260 minutes of recording, which should be adequate for day excursions but may require spares for longer use. The build quality is impressive for its price range, focusing on durability and reliability in extreme conditions rather than premium image quality or professional-level features. This camera is best suited for amateur underwater photographers and outdoor enthusiasts who want a tough, easy-to-use camera that works well for casual diving, snorkeling, and rugged adventures.