10 Best Waterproof Cameras 2025 in the United States

The GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is a strong choice if you're looking for a waterproof camera designed for adventurous, action-packed use. It comes with an Ultra Wide Lens Mod pre-attached, offering an impressive 177-degree field of view that captures much more of your surroundings, making your videos feel immersive and cinematic. The camera shoots high-resolution 27MP photos and 5.3K video at 60 frames per second, providing clear, detailed footage ideal for both casual use and more serious recording. Its HyperSmooth stabilization technology ensures your videos stay smooth even during rough activities, which is a big plus for action sports enthusiasts.

Durability-wise, GoPro cameras are known for their rugged build, and this model is no exception—it’s waterproof without needing an extra case, which is great for underwater adventures or rainy conditions. The included Enduro battery offers good battery life, though heavy video use at high resolution might drain it faster. The camera is easy to use, with features like automatic stabilization and the ability to shoot vertical videos without repositioning the camera, making it handy for social media content creation.

Connectivity options include USB-C for fast charging and data transfer, along with support for microSD storage, which is standard but effective. One drawback might be the price, as GoPro models tend to be on the higher side, and some users may find the wide lens perspective less suitable for everyday shooting that requires a more natural field of view. Also, while the camera supports 4K60 video, the Ultra Wide Edition limits that to 4K, not the full 5.3K at 60fps. This camera is well suited for outdoor enthusiasts, vloggers, and social media creators who want robust waterproof performance and ultra-wide immersive footage. If your focus is ruggedness combined with top-notch video and photo quality in wet environments, this GoPro model delivers well.

The Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 is a solid choice if you're looking for a rugged waterproof camera for casual outdoor adventures or underwater fun up to 15 meters (49 feet). It offers a decent 16MP CMOS sensor, which can capture clear and colorful photos, though it’s not as sharp as higher-end cameras with larger sensors. Its 4x optical zoom provides flexibility to frame shots without losing image quality, and the digital image stabilization helps reduce blur during movement. The camera is built tough, with shockproof and dustproof features that handle knocks and rough conditions, making it reliable for active use. Battery life supports about 110 minutes of recording, which is reasonable for typical day trips but might require charging on longer outings.

Video recording at 1080p Full HD suits casual vlogging and everyday videos, though it doesn’t offer 4K resolution found in newer models. The 2.7-inch LCD screen is small but user-friendly, and the camera’s automatic settings make it easy to use for beginners. WiFi connectivity allows quick sharing of photos and videos without cables, adding convenience. However, storage is limited to microSD cards no larger than 32GB, which might fill up quickly if shooting lots of video. Also, image stabilization is digital, so it won’t be as effective as optical or sensor-shift systems for very shaky conditions.

This camera is well suited for hobbyists and families wanting a simple, durable waterproof camera with good image quality and basic video features, but it may not satisfy those needing top-tier performance or advanced controls.

The GoPro Hero12 Black is a solid choice for anyone looking for a rugged waterproof action camera that excels in capturing high-quality video and photos during outdoor adventures. It’s waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), which is great for swimming, snorkeling, or casual water sports, though not suitable for deeper diving. The camera offers impressive 5.3K video resolution and 27MP photos thanks to its large 1/1.9" image sensor, delivering sharp and detailed footage and pictures. Its standout feature is the award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock, which keep your videos smooth and steady even in very shaky conditions.

Battery life has been notably improved, allowing around 70 minutes of recording at high resolution, which is helpful for longer outings. The camera also supports HDR for better color and contrast, slow-motion recording, and a wide field of view, making it versatile for many shooting styles. In terms of usability, it’s designed to be easy to operate with voice commands and a clear 2.3-inch screen. For connectivity, you can wirelessly link to external microphones and share content quickly via Bluetooth.

If you need a camera for deep diving beyond 33 feet or want longer battery life for extended sessions without charging, this might not fully meet those needs. The Hero12 Black serves as an excellent companion for active users who want top-notch video quality, reliable waterproofing for surface water use, and smooth footage in a compact, user-friendly package.