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10 Best Underwater Scuba Cameras 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with EIS Ultra HD 131FT Waterproof Underwater Camera Remote Control 4X Zoom Support External Microphone Black

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,217
Video Resolution
Lens and Zoom Capability
Battery Life

Most important from
36618 reviews

Video Resolution
The video quality is crisp and clear, even in dim lighting, making it perfect for evening adventures.
Lens and Zoom Capability
The lens captures a very wide area, allowing viewers to see everything in the frame.
Battery Life
Battery life is surprisingly solid, lasting through hours of use without needing a swap.
Durability and Build Quality
The camera's durability is impressive, surviving spills and rough handling without a hitch.
Ease of Use
Easy to use with a touch screen and remote, making operation straightforward and hassle-free.

The AKASO EK7000 is an exciting choice for those venturing into underwater photography and videography. With its impressive 4K video recording capability and 20MP photo quality, users can expect sharp, detailed images and smooth video, perfect for capturing the vibrant underwater world. The camera's waterproof depth rating of up to 131 feet makes it suitable for most recreational diving and snorkeling activities, allowing you to explore various aquatic environments without worry.

One of the standout features is the built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), which helps produce stable footage, reducing the shakiness that often occurs in underwater conditions. This is particularly beneficial when you’re moving or when the water is choppy. The wireless wrist remote control is another great addition, allowing for easy operation; however, keep in mind that the remote itself is not waterproof, so you'll need to handle it with care.

On the downside, the device does have a few limitations. The battery life is decent but might not last through longer dives or extensive shoot sessions, and additional batteries may be required for extended use. Also, while it’s user-friendly, navigating the settings might take some getting used to for beginners. The camera uses a MicroSD card, which is not included, and users will need to purchase one separately. The Wi-Fi connectivity allows for easy editing and sharing, but it has a limited range of about 30 feet.

The AKASO EK7000 is well-suited for casual divers and adventure seekers wanting to record their underwater experiences without breaking the bank. It combines good image quality, durability, and ease of use, making it a great option for both beginners and those looking to upgrade from basic waterproof cameras.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,217
Video Resolution
Lens and Zoom Capability
Battery Life

Most important from
36618 reviews

Video Resolution
The video quality is crisp and clear, even in dim lighting, making it perfect for evening adventures.
Lens and Zoom Capability
The lens captures a very wide area, allowing viewers to see everything in the frame.
Battery Life
Battery life is surprisingly solid, lasting through hours of use without needing a swap.
Durability and Build Quality
The camera's durability is impressive, surviving spills and rough handling without a hitch.
Ease of Use
Easy to use with a touch screen and remote, making operation straightforward and hassle-free.
#2

GoPro HERO11 Black – E-Commerce Packaging - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, 1/1.9" Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization

Rating
9.6
Image Quality (Megapixels)
Video Resolution
Battery Life

Most important from
929 reviews

Image Quality (Megapixels)
The quality is amazing, and if you're a pro photographer, you can tweak the settings to achieve incredible shots.
Video Resolution
This version delivers astonishing improvements with amazing and crisp images and smooth video quality.
Battery Life
The camera itself is great, though the battery life could be longer, but extra batteries are easy to swap.

The GoPro HERO11 Black is a robust underwater-scuba-camera designed for capturing high-quality images and videos underwater. Its standout feature is its capability to record in 5.3K60 Ultra HD video, providing a significant 91% increase in resolution over 4K and an impressive 665% over 1080p. This ensures that your underwater footage is exceptionally detailed and clear. Additionally, the camera's 27MP photo resolution allows for stunning still images.

The HERO11 Black's new 1/1.9" image sensor enhances the field of view, making it perfect for capturing expansive underwater scenes. The Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth Stabilization ensures your videos remain stable and smooth, even in challenging underwater conditions. The camera also offers a variety of digital lenses and aspect ratios, ensuring flexibility in your shots. The water-repelling lens cover is a nice touch, helping to reduce lens flare and other artifacts that can affect underwater photography.

On the downside, the camera's battery life may be a concern for longer dives, as action cameras of this caliber tend to consume power quickly. Additionally, while the GoPro HERO11 Black is highly durable and built to withstand underwater conditions, its compact design may make it slightly challenging to operate with diving gloves. Its ease of use is generally good, but the small 2.27-inch screen may be difficult to navigate for some users. Nevertheless, with wireless connectivity and features such as live streaming and webcam capabilities, this camera is a versatile choice for both amateur and professional divers looking to capture their underwater adventures.

Rating
9.6
Image Quality (Megapixels)
Video Resolution
Battery Life

Most important from
929 reviews

Image Quality (Megapixels)
The quality is amazing, and if you're a pro photographer, you can tweak the settings to achieve incredible shots.
Video Resolution
This version delivers astonishing improvements with amazing and crisp images and smooth video quality.
Battery Life
The camera itself is great, though the battery life could be longer, but extra batteries are easy to swap.
#3

Olympus Tough TG-7 Digital Camera (Red)

Rating
9.4
Waterproof Depth Rating
Lens and Zoom Capability
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
347 reviews

Waterproof Depth Rating
This camera is a reliable companion in extreme conditions, being waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and freeze-proof.
Lens and Zoom Capability
The TG-7 feels much more solid, with better grips and improved zoom compared to previous models.
Durability and Build Quality
This camera is a reliable companion in extreme conditions, being waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and freeze-proof.
Ease of Use
Connecting to the free OI.Share app makes it easy to send photos to your phone and share them with others.

The OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 is tailored for both amateur and experienced underwater photographers, offering a robust design and impressive image capabilities. With a waterproof rating up to 15 meters (50 feet), it's suitable for snorkeling and shallow diving, making it a solid choice for recreational underwater activities. The camera features a 12 MP sensor that produces decent quality images. It does support RAW format, which is a plus for those looking to edit their photos later.

In terms of video, the TG-7 shines with its ability to record in 4K resolution (2160p), adding to its appeal for videographers wanting to capture vibrant underwater scenes. Durability is a key strength, as it’s freezeproof and shockproof, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures beyond just underwater use. The lens is bright with a fast F2.0 aperture, allowing for great low-light performance, and the 4x optical zoom gives flexibility in framing shots.

However, the camera's battery life could use improvement, especially during long underwater excursions. Users should be prepared to carry extra batteries, particularly if they plan to shoot for extended periods. While it is relatively easy to use, those new to photography might find the array of features somewhat overwhelming. The digital image stabilization helps but may not completely eliminate shake, especially in turbulent water conditions. The OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 is a trustworthy underwater camera that excels in durability and video quality, although some may wish for higher image resolution and better battery longevity. It's ideally suited for outdoor enthusiasts and underwater adventurers looking to document their experiences without worrying about equipment failure.

Rating
9.4
Waterproof Depth Rating
Lens and Zoom Capability
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
347 reviews

Waterproof Depth Rating
This camera is a reliable companion in extreme conditions, being waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and freeze-proof.
Lens and Zoom Capability
The TG-7 feels much more solid, with better grips and improved zoom compared to previous models.
Durability and Build Quality
This camera is a reliable companion in extreme conditions, being waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and freeze-proof.
Ease of Use
Connecting to the free OI.Share app makes it easy to send photos to your phone and share them with others.

Buying Guide for the Best Underwater Scuba Cameras

Choosing the right underwater scuba camera can greatly enhance your diving experience by allowing you to capture stunning images and videos of the underwater world. When selecting a camera, it's important to consider several key specifications that will impact the quality of your photos and videos, as well as the ease of use and durability of the camera. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
Waterproof Depth RatingThe waterproof depth rating indicates the maximum depth at which the camera can be used underwater without getting damaged. This spec is crucial because it ensures the camera can withstand the pressure at the depths you plan to dive. Cameras with a depth rating of up to 30 meters are suitable for recreational divers, while those rated for 60 meters or more are ideal for advanced and technical divers. Choose a camera with a depth rating that matches or exceeds the depths you typically dive to ensure it remains functional and safe.
Image Quality (Megapixels)Image quality, often measured in megapixels, determines the resolution and clarity of the photos the camera can capture. Higher megapixels mean more detailed images, which is important for capturing the intricate beauty of underwater scenes. Cameras with 12-16 megapixels are generally sufficient for casual photography, while those with 20 megapixels or more are better for professional-quality images. Consider your photography goals and how much detail you want in your images when choosing the right megapixel count.
Video ResolutionVideo resolution refers to the clarity and detail of the videos the camera can record. Common resolutions include Full HD (1080p) and 4K. Higher resolutions like 4K provide more detailed and sharper videos, which is beneficial for capturing the vibrant colors and movements of marine life. If you plan to create high-quality video content or enjoy watching your dives in great detail, opt for a camera with 4K resolution. For casual use, 1080p may be sufficient.
Lens and Zoom CapabilityThe lens and zoom capability of a camera affect how well you can capture subjects at varying distances. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing expansive underwater scenes, while a camera with optical zoom allows you to get closer to distant subjects without losing image quality. Consider what you plan to photograph—wide-angle lenses are great for coral reefs and large marine animals, while zoom capabilities are useful for smaller or more elusive creatures.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long the camera can operate on a single charge. This is important for ensuring you can capture all the moments of your dive without the camera running out of power. Longer battery life is beneficial for extended dives or multiple dives in a day. Look for cameras with a battery life that matches the duration of your typical diving sessions, and consider carrying spare batteries for longer trips.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality refer to how well the camera can withstand the harsh underwater environment, including pressure, saltwater, and potential impacts. A robust and well-built camera will last longer and perform better in challenging conditions. Look for cameras made from high-quality materials with good seals and protective features. If you frequently dive in rough conditions or travel often, prioritize durability to ensure your camera remains reliable.
Ease of UseEase of use encompasses how user-friendly the camera is, including the simplicity of its controls, menu navigation, and accessibility of features. This is important for ensuring you can quickly and easily operate the camera while underwater, where conditions can be challenging. Cameras with intuitive controls and clear displays are ideal for beginners, while more advanced users might prefer cameras with customizable settings. Consider your level of experience and how comfortable you are with operating complex devices when choosing a camera.

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