Whether you spend the day at the beach or hiking along a river, a waterproof digital camera is a wonderful way to document the experience. Normal digital cameras are sensitive to wet environments and are put at risk whenever you use them around water. Even if you don’t drop your regular digital camera in the water, a miscalculated splash or even a rain shower can short the system and make the camera worthless. For this reason, waterproof cameras are a great option for those that want to take pictures in wet environments.
Not all waterproof digital cameras are the same, however. To help you choose the best camera for you, we reviewed 25 waterproof cameras.
- Budget Waterproof Digital Cameras
- Mid-Range Waterproof Digital Cameras
- High-End Waterproof Digital Cameras
Budget Waterproof Digital Cameras
Designed to be used in pools, this camera is waterproof up to 10 feet. It can capture 16MP images and 720P videos. While these specs are lower than most other cameras, this camera is inexpensive; you get what you pay for. This camera also comes with a CMOS sensor to help it adapt to varying light conditions and an 8x digital zoom. It uses a micro SD card and 2 AAA batteries, though these are not included.
Key Features:
- Captures 16MP images
- Takes 720P videos
- 8x digital zoom
Cost: $59
Decomen Waterproof Camera for Kids
This waterproof camera is the perfect option for your kids to use at the pool or beach. It can be submerged in water up to 3 meters, which is approximately 10 feet. It takes 4 AAA batteries and an 8GB memory card. Unlike many other cameras, these are included with your purchase. This camera takes high-quality pictures and video, even when underwater.
Key Features:
- Designed for children 6-12
- Submersible up to 10 feet
- Two LCD screens
Cost: $57
Flagpower Underwater Camera for Kids
This waterproof camera is designed for children, but it is very well made and suitable for adults as well. It is compact and easy-to-hold while still being durable. With the ability to take 12MP photos and 720P videos, this camera is not as stellar as some more expensive options. However, it gets the job done and is a good backup camera or first camera for a child.
Key Features:
- Waterproof up to 3-meters
- Compact
- 12MP photos
Cost: $50
GordVE 2.7 Inch Digital Camera
This exciting and fun camera is perfect for children with little photography experience. It is very durable and designed for underwater use. It also features a CMOS sensor to support clear image capturing and video shooting. The cute tiger design and compact size are perfect for little hands. There is an internal microphone and speaker to capture sound and an 8x optical zoom lens.
Key Features:
- Cute design
- Can also take videos
- Built-in microphone and speaker
Cost: $56
This very inexpensive camera by Heegomn is waterproof up to 3-meters and comes with a built-in CMOX sensor. It features a 2.4” LCD display for better viewing and 4x digital zoom to help you capture important moments at a distance. Despite its price, it captures high-quality21MP photos at speeds of up to 30fps. It can also take videos at a resolution of 720P.
Key Features:
- Waterproof up to three meters
- Takes 21MP photos
- 4x digital zoom
Cost: $35
This camera is particularly suitable for very small children. It features 16GB of storage and a floating hand grip for easy use. The design is very attractive as well as durable and drop-proof. It can be submerged up to 33-feet while in the case, making it a great option for pool-side use. With a 3.7V rechargeable battery, it can record continuously for 1.5 hours before needing to be recharged.
Key Features:
- 16GM memory card
- 1.5 hours of continuous filming per charge
- Waterproof up to 33-feet
Cost: $39
Featuring two full-color LCD display, this camera is perfect for underwater selfies. It is submersible up to 10 feet and is also dustproof and waterproof. It can also take both photos and videos, though they are not as good quality as some other options. This camera takes AAA batteries and accepts a MicroSD card, though these are not included. Overall, this camera is compact but durable, making it perfect for a hike or day at the pool.
Key Features:
- Waterproof up to 10 feet
- Dual full-color LCD screens
- 4x digital zoom
Cost: $50
Kids Waterproof Camera by Rotek
Rotek makes a variety of cameras that are a great option for children. This particular camera is waterproof and can be used underwater. It is also dustproof and stands up to the heavy wear-and-tear that often comes with children. It takes AAA batteries, but the battery slot is more compact than other models due to the waterproof feature. It does take a little bit to open, so it will require an adult.
Key Features:
- Designed for children
- Usable underwater
- Very durable
Cost: $59
Available in 2 different colors, this camera is an inexpensive option for those who don’t need a camera with many features. It includes a 2.4” preview screen on the backside and is submersible up to 10-feet. Small and lightweight, this makes a wonderful backup to your main camera. It can easily be slipped into your pocket and bag. You will need to purchase a separate micro SD card, as this camera does not come with one.
Key Features:
- Waterproof up to 10 feet
- Available in two colors
- 2.4” preview screen
Cost: $27
Mid-Range Waterproof Digital Cameras
Despite the low price, this camera is of superb quality. It allows you to capture high-resolution videos at 30fps and can connect through Wi-Fi for easy picture sharing. You can insert up to a 64GB SD card for extra storage, though this does have to be purchased separately. This camera uses rechargeable batteries that can record footage for up to 70 minutes before needing to be recharged. The casing is completely water resistant and can be used at a depth of 30-meters.
Key Features:
- Waterproof casing up to 30m
- Wi-Fi compatible
- Rechargeable batteries
Cost: $100
This digital camera is designed to take ultra-HD action photos and videos. The view angle can be adjusted to fit your needs, and a built-in smart gyroscope prevents the camera from shaking while in use, making your images and videos smooth. Featuring Wi-Fi, this camera allows you to share and edit videos using a free app. You can also connect the camera to your TV using an HDMI. When placed in the waterproof case, the camera is waterproof for up to 100 feet.
Key Features:
- Built-in gyroscope
- Takes HD photos and videos
- Waterproof up to 100 feet
Cost: $80
This camera is both waterproof and shockproof. Thanks to the camera’s BSI CMOS sensor, it can automatically adjust the shooting setting depending on the lighting, allowing you to capture even dark scenes with clarity. Plus, this digital camera can also record HD videos at 60 fps and can continuously shoot pictures at 10 fps.
Key Features:
- Shockproof
- Takes full HD videos
- 10 fps continuous shooting
Cost: $100
For those who love editing their photos, this camera is perfect. It features built-in creative effects and retouching, allowing you to personalize their pictures straight on the camera. It also features an advanced underwater mode, which makes capturing clear, crisp pictures much easier.
Key Features:
- Built-in creative effects
- Advanced Underwater Mode
- Waterproof
Cost: $105
Underwater Camera by Comi Tech
Designed for versatile use, this camera is perfect for use at home, on the road, and in the water. It is waterproof and submersible up to 10 feet for one hour at a time and is also dust- and shock-proof. This camera features a rear-facing display and slightly smaller forward facing one, which is perfect for selfies. It also includes various settings to make taking photos easier, including face detection and lighting correction.
Key Features:
- Two display screens
- Submersible
- Various setting options available
Cost: $80
Waterproof Digital Camera by Yisence
Featuring a compact design, this waterproof camera is perfect for carrying around on a lanyard. It is built tough for an active lifestyle and can take a bit of punishment. Built for extreme water conditions, this digital camera can be used underwater at up to 10 feet for one hour at a time. For the price, it is hard to beat that level of durability.
Key Features:
- Can be used underwater
- Shoots photos and videos
- Durable
Cost: $80
This 1080P camera can take full HD photos and 30fps videos. With a max 24MP photograph resolution, this camera takes crisp and clear videos. It also features various other features to make capturing the perfect photo easier, including a 16x digital zoom, a built-in flash, and dual viewfinders. With a screen on the front of the camera, it is easier than ever to take selfies.
Key Features:
- 2.7” selfie screen
- Portable and lightweight
- 1080P full-HD
Cost: $80
High-End Digital Waterproof Cameras
Fujifilm FinePix XP80 Waterproof Digital Camera
For an extra-durable camera, it is hard to beat this one. It is waterproof up to 50 feet, freeze-proof up to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, shockproof up to 5.8 feet, and dustproof. This camera includes a CMOS sensor, allowing it to deliver high-quality images in low light. It can also take full HD movies with a one-touch movie button and is Wi-Fi enabled.
Key Features:
- Available in three colors
- Very durable
- One-touch movie button
Cost: $135
GoPro is known for making durable cameras that are fantastic at taking action shots. This particular GoPro is waterproof up to 33-feet and designed to withstand extreme environments. No housing is necessary, unlike some other cameras. With one-button control, this camera is also extremely easy to use and is great for even those that are technologically knowledgeable.
Key Features:
- Easy, one-button control
- Very durable
- Waterproof up to 33 feet
Cost: $150
This slightly more expensive GoPro can capture clear 4K videos and 10Mp photos. With the burst mode, it can capture 15 photos in one second, which is particularly useful for those who participate in fast-paced sports. No matter what you’re doing, this GoPro can record smooth shots thanks to its advanced video stabilization technology. It even comes with an intuitive touchscreen that allows you to switch between the various modes quickly.
Key Features:
- Captures 4K videos and 10MP photos
- Video stabilization technology
- Intuitive touch screen
Cost: $200
This Nikon camera comes in both white and blue. It is waterproof up to 32 feet deep, shockproof up to 5 feet, and freezeproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Since it is a Nikon camera, it comes with a wide-angle NIKKOR glass zoom lens. It also includes a CMOS sensor that allows the camera to compensate for low-light conditions automatically. Oversized buttons and straightforward menus make it extremely easy to use as well.
Key Features:
- Waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof
- Takes full HD materials
- Oversized buttons and easy menu
Cost: $148
Take beautiful pictures with this waterproof camera. It is built for an active lifestyle and is both shockproof and freeze-proof. Using the Nikon SnapBridge app, you can connect your smartphone or tablet to this camera, allowing you to unlock new capabilities and make taking pictures even easier. This camera features a 13.2 MP CMOS image sensor and 3x optical zoom.
Key Features:
- Waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof
- CMOS image sensor
- NIKKOR 3x optical zoom
Cost: $157
Designed to be extremely durable, this camera is waterproof freeze-proof, shockproof, and dustproof. It can take crisp, high-resolution photos and 4K ultra-HD videos, including time-lapse videos, super lapse videos, and music montages. It features autofocus, a 5x optical zoom, hybrid VR image stabilization, Wi-Fi compatibility, and Bluetooth. This camera only takes 2 hours and 20 minutes to be fully charged.
Key Features:
- 5x Optical Zoom
- Autofocus
- Image stabilization
Cost: $380
Olympus TG-5 Waterproof Camera
While this camera is more expensive than many other options, it is also higher quality overall and comes with many more features than the usual digital camera. It is waterproof to 50 feet, dustproof, crushproof to 220 pounds, shockproof, and freezeproof. It even includes an anti-fog lens and a field sensor system that includes a GPS, manometer, compass, and temperature. Plus, this camera includes one of the best image processors available, so you can expect high-quality pictures.
Key Features:
- 12MP Hi-Speed Image Sensor
- Field sensor system
- Durable
Cost: $400
Built for an active lifestyle, this camera is waterproof, freeze-proof, dustproof, and shockproof. It is perfect for those who are constantly on-the-go or who plan on using this camera in rugged environments. This camera also comes equipped with a mega O.I.S. lens, which allows it to compensate for hand-shaking and deliver clearer pictures automatically. It also includes an Advanced Underwater Mode, which allows it to compensate for the red tones that are commonly lost in underwater pictures.
Key Features:
- Advanced Underwater Mode
- Durable
- 220MB of built-in memory
Cost: $128
Ricoh WG-60 Waterproof Digital Camera
This camera is relatively new on the market but includes many great features that make it perfect for underwater photo shoots. It is waterproof up to 45-feet, which is a lot more than most other options. It is also shockproof up to 5-feet and freeze-proof to 14 degrees. Designed for outdoor use, the digital microscope mode allows you to photograph extremely tiny details down to 1cm in size. This camera also includes a normal, 5x optical zoom. Plus, the 2.7” LCD monitor can be used in even extreme situations.
Key Features:
- Waterproof up to 45-feet
- Digital microscope
- 2.7” LCD screen
Cost: $236
