Underwater photography captures the brightest colors, most interesting textures, and vibrant life. You can whip out a good underwater camera to capture an epic reef dive or to capture photos of sea turtles while snorkeling. Choose from our list of 8 of the best underwater cameras, because the right one can make all the difference. Turn your underwater adventure into snaps!
Best overall: SeaLife Micro 3.0 Limited Edition Gift Set
Why We Love It: It’s the ultimate all-in-one kit for pro underwater photographers. It’s easy to use and executes pro-quality imagery.
What to Consider: It’s a bit on the pricier side. However, worth every penny.
This is your go-to kit for one of the best underwater cameras with a built-in wide-angle lens and powerful lighting systems. Designed to handle depths up to 200 feet, the camera also boasts vivid color correction.
It’s an all-in-one powerhouse perfect for everything from macro shots to those satisfying reef panoramas. Bonus points for its easy-to-navigate controls!
Best for snorkeling: GoPro HERO13 Black Camera Accessory Bundle
Why We Love It: This bundle is packed with GoPro’s best 5.3K60 HERO13 Black, essential accessories, and extra goodies.
What to Consider: The advanced features come with a learning curve, especially for those new to action cameras. Also, the premium price reflects the quality, but budget-conscious adventurers might find it a bit steep (and that’s okay)!
This cam‘s got your back with its insane 5.3K resolution video that’s so sharp, you can practically feel the ocean through the screen. Plus, the ultra-durable Enduro battery gives you longer recording times in all conditions.
And if that’s not enough for ya, the HB-Series Lenses let you get ultra-wide POV shots or zoom in for close-ups with amazing detail. Oh, and did I mention it’s waterproof and shockproof? Toss it, drop it, dunk it — this camera will keep fighting.
Best for underwater videography: Insta360 X4 360 Dive Bundle with Selfie Stick
Why We Love It: It takes content creation to the next level with immersive 360-degree 8K video and the magic of the invisible selfie stick. Plus, the AI-powered reframing tools let you focus on the action and worry about framing later.
What to Consider: While 8K sounds incredible, keep in mind that it requires substantial storage space and processing power. Also, if you’re not into heavy editing, some of the pro-level features might feel like overkill.
As one of the best underwater cameras, this one captures everything — and I mean everything — with its 8K 360-degree video. Then, using the Insta360 app, you can reframe shots later like a pro director.
Want that epic drone-like shot without an actual drone? The invisible selfie stick makes it happen, no Photoshop required. And don’t get me started on the underwater case — this thing lets you go 164 feet deep, so it’s the ultimate diving camera buddy. With insane features like AI editing, 360 HDR, and stabilization that makes even the bumpiest ride look buttery smooth.
Best for experts: OM System TG-7 Digital Camera with Underwater Housing
Why We Love It: This underwater cam + housing combo is an all-rounder that thrives in any weather. With its F2.0 lens, RAW recording, and waterproofing down to 45m, it’s a hardcore diver’s go-to camera.
What to Consider: The built-in zoom could feel a bit limited compared to larger cameras. The interface might also take some time to master, too.
Built like a tank, the OM System TG-7 is waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof. Take it anywhere from rugged mountains to underwater depths, and it’ll deliver sharp 27MP photos and stunning 4K video. Unfaltering every time.
Plus, its variable macro system is a sweet bonus for those who love close-up shots of tiny marine life or detailed textures. Pair it with the PT-059 underwater housing, and now you’re taking it down to 45 meters (yes, that’s nearly 150 feet). It’s small but mighty.
Best underwater camera housing: Sea & Sea MDX-R5 Underwater Housing for Canon EOS R5
Why We Love It: It’s tough, sleek, and makes using your Canon EOS R5 underwater as easy as snapping shots on dry land. Plus, the leak alarm system keeps you aware of any intruding water.
What to Consider: It’s a pro-level tool, so unless you’re comfortable with adding accessories like strobes and external viewfinders, it might feel like overkill.
Making the Canon EOS R5 submersible as one of the best underwater cameras, this housing was built with ergonomics in mind. It’s designed to keep your camera safe and easily operable, even when you’re wearing dive gloves.
Additionally, the Leak Alarm feature is a guardian angel for your gear, giving you a heads-up if water sneaks in. With options for different optical viewfinders and a solid build, this housing is a staple.
Best for diving: DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max Underwater Smartphone Ocean Kit
Why We Love It: It has full touchscreen capability underwater.
What to Consider: Before you get too excited, make sure your phone fits, and don’t forget to remove the screen protector!
It’s the first underwater housing that lets you swipe, scroll, and tap your way through your apps, even at 60 meters below the surface. The patented touchscreen technology lets you use your phone like normal (underwater TikTok, anyone?), and it fits a wide variety of iPhone models.
Capture epic shots, record videos, or even check your notifications with this unit. And guess what? You don’t have to take your phone out of the case to upload pics later! It’s completely doable even when it’s in the case.
Best smartphone housing: SeaLife SportDiver Ultra Underwater Smartphone Housing
Why We Love It: This turns your smartphone into a pro underwater camera. It has a super bright 2500-lumen light to capture vibrant images in even the darkest depths.
What to Consider: It’s not touchscreen compatible, so be prepared to use buttons and the SportDiver app for controls.
This case can dive down to 130 feet and works with a variety of iPhones and Android models. Additionally, the large shutter lever and rear control buttons are great if you’re wearing thick dive gloves or just need a no-nonsense way to snap pics and switch between photo and video modes.
The real star here is the Sea Dragon 2500 Photo-Video Light, which pumps out 2500 lumens of brilliance. It’s what makes your underwater images sharp and colorful, even in murky conditions. With dual leak alarms and Bluetooth connectivity, it’s a solid, reliable option for anyone who wants to surface with Instagram-worthy shots.
Best smartphone housing for beginners: ProShot Dive Universal Waterproof iPhone Case
Why We Love It: Simple, strong, and compatible with every iPhone model since the Jurassic period.
What to Consider: No touchscreen use while your phone’s inside the case — so rely on the ProShot app to control everything.
Currently, it works with all iPhones from the iPhone 6 to the 14 series. Oh, and this case isn’t messing around — it’s waterproof up to 130 feet and comes with a floating hand grip to prevent your phone from sinking into the abyss if you let go.
It’s compatible with all GoPro mounts, so you can attach it to your dive gear and focus on exploring. Plus, the ProShot app gives you an underwater color correction feature, turning the volume buttons into camera controls.
Best underwater ROV: CHASING M2 PRO MAX ROV Underwater Drone
Why We Love It: This underwater drone gives you a fish’s-eye view of the deep, complete with 360-degree movement and an epic 4K camera.
What to Consider: It’s definitely not a casual purchase. So, unless you’re planning serious exploration or need it for professional underwater inspections, this may be more than you need.
Yes, one of the best underwater cameras is a drone! Especially this one, an absolute beast when it comes to underwater exploration. With eight thrusters, it can move in any direction, which makes navigating underwater so easy.
The drone can dive down to 200 meters and cover a horizontal distance of 400 meters. Therefore, you get plenty of range for inspections, scientific exploration, or even just living out your deep-sea explorer dreams.
It’s packed with high-tech features, from 4K video and 12-megapixel photos to external 8000-lumen floodlights that turn murky waters into a lit-up wonderland. The M2 PRO MAX is designed for industrial applications. However, if you’re an ambitious hobbyist or a professional in need of the best underwater camera, this drone is the one.
FAQs: Best Underwater Cameras
For underwater surf photography, the GoPro Hero13 is a fantastic choice. It can handle the splashes and tumbles of catching waves while still delivering stunning 5.3K video quality. Plus, it’s lightweight, so you can easily carry it.
Choosing an underwater camera depends on a few factors: your experience level, the types of shots you want, and how deep you plan to dive. If you’re just starting out, try ProShot iPhone Housing — it turns your phone into a reliable underwater cam. For more pro-level, you might want to try the Sealife SLFM3GS Limited Edition Bundle.
Absolutely! The GoPro Hero13 is perfect for snorkeling. It’s waterproof up to 33 feet without any additional housing, so you can easily capture vibrant underwater scenes and those friendly fish.
The Olympus TG-7 Bundle is often hailed as the best camera for underwater use. It’s tough as nails, waterproof up to 50 feet, and delivers fantastic image quality.
Yes, waterproof cameras definitely work! Models like the Divevolk Ocean Kit and the GoPro Hero13 are designed to function flawlessly underwater.
Ready, set, dive… and snap!
You’re all ready to dive headfirst (well, maybe feet first) into underwater photography. With buoyancy under control, your subjects in close range, and natural light on your side, you were basically born for this.
But remember: underwater photography is a mix of art and adventure. You’ll miss some shots, sure. You might even get photobombed by a curious fish or two (honestly, they do that, but it’s so cute). But each dive is a chance to improve, explore, and capture something new.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab one of these 8 best underwater cameras and capture away. Just don’t forget to come back up for air!
