10 Best Waterproof Cameras 2025 in the United States

The GoPro HERO13 Black stands out as an excellent choice in the waterproof camera category. With its impressive waterproof depth rating, it is designed to withstand submersion, making it perfect for adventurers, swimmers, or anyone wanting to capture moments in wet conditions. The camera features best-in-class 5.3K60 video quality and 27MP photos, ensuring that you get sharp, vibrant images and detailed video playback. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize high resolution in their action shots.

The durable build quality is another strong point, as GoPro cameras are known for their ruggedness, able to endure rough handling and harsh environments. Moreover, the enhanced battery life means you'll spend less time worrying about recharging and more time capturing memories. Ease of use is also a key feature, with straightforward controls and a compact design that makes it user-friendly for beginners.

Connectivity options allow for easy sharing of your adventures, although it primarily relies on USB connections. On the downside, the camera can be a bit pricey compared to other waterproof options on the market, which may deter budget-conscious users. Additionally, while it excels in video quality, some might find the audio recording capabilities somewhat limited unless paired with additional accessories. The GoPro HERO13 Black is a fantastic pick for anyone looking for a robust waterproof camera, ideal for capturing high-quality footage during water sports, travel, or outdoor activities.

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 OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 is a robust waterproof camera designed for outdoor and underwater enthusiasts. With a waterproof depth rating of 15 meters and freezeproof capabilities down to -10°C, it stands out for its durability in extreme conditions. The camera's image quality is decent with a 12 MP effective resolution, complemented by a high-speed F2.0 zoom lens, which is great for capturing clear images in varied environments. The RAW recording option allows for more flexibility in post-processing, a feature that amateur photographers may find handy.

Video capabilities are impressive, supporting 4K resolution at 2160p, which is ideal for those wanting to document their underwater adventures in high detail. The digital image stabilization can help maintain clarity in dynamic situations, enhancing video quality. Battery life is sufficient for day trips, but users should consider bringing a backup if they plan to shoot extensively.

Ease of use is a key feature of the TG-7; it’s designed with amateur photographers in mind, offering simple shooting modes and an intuitive interface. Connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, make it easy to share photos and videos, a plus for social media enthusiasts. The camera's 12 MP resolution may not satisfy users seeking higher megapixel counts for large prints. Additionally, while its construction is strong, the relatively lightweight design means it's not as rugged as some heavier competitors. The fixed LCD screen, while clear, lacks the versatility of a flip screen, which can be a limitation for creative angles. Finally, the autofocus technology, though functional, operates on contrast detection, which may not be as quick as phase detection in challenging light conditions.

The OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 is a great choice for those looking for a reliable, easy-to-use camera for underwater photography and outdoor activities, but it may fall short for users seeking higher image resolution or more advanced autofocus capabilities.