10 Best Waterproof Digital Cameras 2025 in the United States

The GoPro HERO13 Black stands out as a top choice for a waterproof digital camera, especially for action enthusiasts. Its impressive waterproof depth rating means it can handle underwater adventures with ease, making it ideal for divers and swimmers. The 27MP photo capabilities combined with a 5.3K60 video resolution ensure that users capture high-quality images and videos. The CMOS sensor technology helps improve image clarity and performance in various lighting situations.

Durability is a hallmark of GoPro products, and the HERO13 Black continues this tradition, designed to withstand rough handling and extreme conditions, which is perfect for outdoor and action photography. The camera’s build quality ensures longevity, and its compact size and lightweight nature make it easy to carry around without feeling cumbersome. The battery life, while improved, may still require users to carry spares for extended shooting sessions. The 2.27-inch screen size is adequate for framing shots and reviewing footage, but some users might find it a bit small for detailed viewing.

The ease of use is enhanced by intuitive controls and compatibility with HB-Series lenses, offering flexibility in shooting options. Additional features such as USB connectivity, support for various audio formats, and Micro SD flash memory increase the camera’s versatility. The GoPro HERO13 Black is an excellent choice for those needing a robust, high-quality waterproof camera, but users should be mindful of its battery life and screen size limitations.

The GoPro Hero12 Black is a robust waterproof action camera designed for extreme environments, capable of submersion up to 33ft (10m). With its 27MP photo capability and 5.3K60 ultra HD video, it offers stunning image quality and high detail, enhanced further by its 1/1.9'' image sensor and HDR functionality. The camera's Emmy award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization ensures smooth footage even in shaky conditions, and the 360° horizon lock feature keeps videos level without the need for additional gimbals.

Battery life is considerably extended with the Enduro battery, allowing up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at high resolution, which is ideal for long adventures. Additional features like Bluetooth audio connectivity and an expansive field of view make it versatile for various uses, including live streaming and capturing immersive POV shots. However, at 12 ounces, it is relatively heavy for an action camera, which might be a downside for some users.

The 2.3-inch screen size might be smaller than expected for those who prefer larger displays, and the maximum aperture of 2.5 f, while decent, is not the best for low-light conditions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the GoPro Hero12 Black stands out as a high-performing waterproof camera well-suited for adventurers and extreme sports enthusiasts who demand top-notch video and image quality.

The OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 is designed for adventure enthusiasts looking for a capable waterproof camera. With a waterproof depth rating of 15 meters (50 feet) and freeze-proof capabilities down to -10°C, it is built to withstand challenging outdoor conditions. This camera excels in durability, featuring robust shockproof performance, making it a solid choice for various outdoor activities, including underwater photography. Users will appreciate its high-speed F2.0 zoom lens, which enhances image quality, especially in low-light situations, producing sharp, vibrant photos thanks to its 12 MP CMOS sensor and RAW recording capabilities.

Battery life is decent, though users may want to carry a spare for extended trips. The TG-7 is user-friendly, catering to amateurs with its auto and manual shooting modes, ensuring that even those new to photography can capture great moments.

On the downside, while the TG-7 performs well in many aspects, its image resolution of 12 MP may not meet the needs of professional photographers seeking higher megapixel counts for larger prints or extensive cropping. The digital image stabilization is helpful but may not match the performance of some higher-end models with optical stabilization. Additionally, the camera lacks advanced night vision capabilities, which could limit its use in low-light underwater situations. In terms of connectivity, the TG-7 includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options, allowing for easy sharing of images and videos, although it does not come with a remote. This camera is an excellent choice for casual users and outdoor adventurers who need a reliable, compact, and durable option for capturing memories, particularly in aquatic environments.