Best waterproof camera 2021: Top 9 cameras for underwater shooting

(Image credit: Future)

Looking for the best waterproof camera you can buy in 2021? Whether you're an underwater photographer or a water sports enthusiast, the best waterproof cameras can capture great images above and below the waves.

From rugged compact models to all-around action cameras, we've tested the best waterproof cameras to help you find your ideal option. The buying guide below features a range of recommendations suitable for all skill levels and all budgets. So whatever your shoot, you're sure to make a splash.

Today's flagship smartphones may offer some degree of waterproofing, but every camera featured in this list is fully waterproof and good for a dip. In fact, the best waterproof cameras in 2021 can run at several meters below the surface. So whether you're snorkeling, sailing or swimming, our selection of the best waterproof cameras will help you take high-quality photos and videos anywhere there's water. 'water.

When choosing your perfect waterproof camera, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. The waterproofness you need will depend on the activity you have chosen: if you are into snorkeling, for example, something like the Nikon Coolpix W300 will do, as it's waterproof to 30 meters. Likewise, if your activities require gloves, you might want a camera that's simple to use, with accessible physical controls , such as the Fujifilm XP140.

Other considerations include image stabilization to smooth out waves, low-light performance if you're headed for the deep, and smart connectivity, if you want to quickly share your water-based footage. Some cameras, such than the Insta360 Go 2, even include special underwater shooting modes that match color balance to underwater scenarios.

Our overall pick for the best waterproof camera you can buy in 2021 is the Olympus Tough TG-6. Properly rugged yet incredibly versatile, it's an accessible premium compact that can capture fantastic photos and video almost anywhere. where. That said, there might be a better camera for your specific needs in the list below. The GoPro Hero9 Black, for example, offers an impressive mix of 5K video and outstanding HyperSmooth image stabilization, in a compact and robust.

Whatever you're planning to capture, our comprehensive buying guide features the best waterproof cameras for every need and budget. And whichever one you choose, they're all made for the waves.

The best waterproof cameras 2021 at a glance:

Olympus Tough TG-6

GoPro Hero 9 Black

DJI Osmo Action

Fujifilm XP140

Nikon Coolpix W300

GoPro Hero 8 Black

Panasonic Lumix FT7 / TS7

Insta360 GB 2

Ricoh WG-60

Best waterproof cameras in 2021:

(Image credit: Future)

1.Olympus Tough TG-6

Not just rugged, but with a spec sheet that goes beyond the waterproof standard

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 12MP

Lens:

25-100mm f/2.0-4.9

Waterproof:

15m

Frost resistant:

-10ºC;

Shockproof :

2.1m

To watch:

3 inch, 1,040,000 dots

Movies:

User level:

Intermediate Beginner

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$509

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Reasons to buy

Raw shooting is a bonus

4K video rather than Full HD

Reasons to avoid

small sensor

No electronic viewfinder

Olympus' line of waterproof Tough cameras has arguably the strongest reputation here, and the company has packed its newest TG-6 model with some decidedly high-end features. Raw shooting? Check. 4K video? Yeah, that too. GPS? Damn, yeah. Even the same processing engine as the

OM-D E-M1X

mirrorless model features here.

With a lens that has a maximum aperture of f/2 at the wide end and a host of close focus goodies on top of that, the camera is certainly ready for all sorts of land and underwater captures. We wish Olympus had moved things a bit further from what we saw in the previous

TG-5

, however, which was our previous top pick and isn't all that different from what we have here. We've just completed our full review and while we can see this is a stronger model, the TG-5 would still be a good choice if you are on a tighter budget.

Read our in depth

Olympus Tough TG-6 review

(Image credit: Future)

2. GoPro Hero 9 Black

The latest GoPro has everything to make waves

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 23.6 megapixel

Lens:

16-39mm equivalent

Waterproof:

10m

To watch:

1.4 inch screen (front), 2.27 inch touchscreen (rear)

Movies:

User level:

Intermediate Beginner

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$573.92

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Reasons to buy

5K video captures plenty of detail

Improved battery life

Reasons to avoid

Unresponsive touch screen

No slow motion 4K/120p

Considering it's the most powerful and versatile action camera GoPro has ever made, it's no wonder the Hero 9 Black is one of the best waterproof cameras you can buy. .Its predecessor might offer better value for most money, but with a new 23.6MP sensor that delivers 5K video, the Hero 9 Black is a great option for underwater recording. is waterproof to 10 meters without a case, the Hero 9 Black's slightly laggy touchscreen isn't really usable underwater.

Instead, you rely on the simple pair of sturdy buttons for quick inputs - a solution that actually makes it very easy to use. GoPro's strongest stabilizer to date, ensures shake-free footage at sea Battery life is increased but still fairly average, while 4K isn't noticeably improved over the GoPro Hero 8 Black .Still, if you want the smartest, smoothest and most accessible waterproof action camera, the GoPro Hero 9 Black is hard to beat.

Read our in depth

GoPro Hero 9 Black review

(Image credit: Future)

3. DJI Osmo Action

An affordable alternative to underwater action cameras

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 12MP

Lens:

145º field of view, f/2.8

Waterproof:

11m

Shockproof :

1.5m

To watch:

1.4 inch screen (front), 2.25 inch touchscreen (rear)

Movies:

User level:

Intermediate Beginner

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$251.45

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Reasons to buy

Competitive video quality

Very good stabilization

Reasons to avoid

Average low light performance

Slow motion at 1080p only

With specs to rival the GoPro Hero 8 Black, the slightly older DJI Osmo Action represents a more affordable but still great performing underwater action camera. Waterproof up to 11 meters without a case - or up to 60 meters in a case sold separately - and wrapped in a sturdy metal shell, its durability is beyond doubt. Like the GoPro Hero 9 Black, it offers front and rear screens for easy framing, while shooting underwater is intuitive with shortcut buttons.

Video itself is crisp, smooth, and detailed, maxing out at 4K at 60fps, though 240fps slow motion is only available at 1080p. RockSteady image stabilization isn't quite as smooth as GoPro's HyperSmooth 2.0, but it largely smooths out swells and waves. Low-light performance is less impressive, but that's nothing new for an action camera - and battery life is also comparable to the course. A solid and versatile waterproof action camera with a mountable body and extensive accessories, the DJI Osmo Action offers excellent value for money.

Read our in depth

Reviews on DJI Osmo Action

(Image credit: Future)

4.Fujifilm XP140

A versatile yet affordable waterproof compact

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 16.4 MP

Lens:

28-140mm f/3.9-4.9

Waterproof:

25m

Frost resistant:

-10°C

Shockproof :

1.8m

To watch:

3-inch, 920,000-dot touchscreen

Movies:

4K/15p

User level:

Beginner

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Reasons to buy

Virtually indestructible

Generous 5x optical zoom

Reasons to avoid

Disappointing 4K video

Screen could be brighter

Almost identical to the Fujifilm XP130 before it, Fujifilm's latest rugged camera retains many of its specs: there's the same 16.4MP sensor, 5x optical zoom and 3-inch touchscreen.

Although you wouldn't know it by looking, the XP140 is slightly more rugged than its predecessor, making it nearly indestructible. Dustproof, shockproof up to 1.8m and freezeproof down to -10° C, it's also waterproof to 25m, so it should survive even the deepest freediving expeditions.

The biggest changes are inside the camera It can now capture 100fps slow motion at 720p, as well as true 4K footage, although a disappointing 4K frame rate of 15fps means it is much more capable as a Full HD 1080p shooter. Maximum ISO sensitivity has also been doubled to 12800 for improved low-light performance, while new subject and scene detection capabilities are bolstered by a wider range of in-camera filters.

Because the sensor is stabilized and back-illuminated, the XP140 can deliver great results underwater, while the large screen makes it easy to frame even with glasses. When you're back on dry land , Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity make it easy to offload images via the Fujifilm app - or an Instax Share printer for instant prints.

5. Nikon Coolpix W300

The perfect choice if you want to go deep underwater

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 16MP

Lens:

24-120mm

Waterproof:

30m

Frost resistant:

-10°

Shockproof :

2.1m

To watch:

3 inch, 921,000 dots

Movies:

User level:

Beginner

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$499

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Reasons to buy

Waterproof up to 30m

Wide zoom range

Reasons to avoid

Tedious checks

Exposure inconsistencies

The Coolpix W300 comes with a host of features - there's 4K video for beginners, a terrific GPS system, an interactive world map and Wi-Fi connectivity, plus an altimeter and underwater depth gauge. navy to start.

The W300 also offers a high-resolution 921,000-dot OLED monitor, but perhaps most impressive of all is that the W300 can operate down to a depth of 30 meters – as long as an Advanced Open Water diving certificate allows you. .

(Image credit: Future)

6. GoPro Hero 8 Black

GoPro's former flagship is still a winner in the water

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 12 MP

Best waterproof camera 2021: Top 9 cameras for underwater shooting

Lens:

N / A

Waterproof:

10m

To watch:

2 inch touch screen

Movies:

User level:

Beginner

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$438.01

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$499.95

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Reasons to buy

Superb image stabilization

Intuitive interface

Reasons to avoid

Could be better in low light

Average still performance

The GoPro Hero 8 Black has technically been replaced by the new Hero 9 Black, yet while it may lack its successor's front-facing display and higher-resolution sensor, the Hero 8 Black captures 4K footage. Equally impressive transparent /60p – and its HyperSmooth stabilization intelligence keeps things about as stable under the waves.

With prices lower than ever, the Hero 8 Black arguably hits the sweet spot for action cameras. It's definitely worth considering as an underwater camera: waterproof up to 10m without housing , it also offers decent HDR for scenes with wide contrast ranges. And while low-light performance may be better, the optional Light Mod lets you light up murky depths with ease.

Its combination of two buttons and a touchscreen make the Hero 8 Black a snap to control, while custom presets and four digital lenses put versatility at your fingertips. Add smartphone connectivity into the mix to one easy download and there's every reason to keep the Hero 8 Black on your submarine wishlist.

Read our in depth

GoPro Hero 8 Black Review

7.Panasonic Lumix FT7/TS7

One of the few waterproof cameras with a built-in viewfinder

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 20.4 MP

Lens:

28-128mm

Waterproof:

31m

Frost resistant:

-10°C

Shockproof :

To watch:

3 inch, 1,040,000 dots

Movies:

User level:

Intermediate Beginner

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Reasons to buy

Integrated viewfinder

Waterproof up to 31m

Reasons to avoid

Image smoothing at high ISOs

No raw capture

Panasonic's new Lumix TS7 (called Lumix FT7 outside the US) is the latest waterproof camera here. the pixel count from 16.1 MP in the TS5/FT5 to 20.4 MP in the Lumix TS7/FT7. Lens coverage remains the same as its predecessor, with a 4.6x zoom range that covers 28 -128mm, but interestingly the lens loses its Leica branding.

The Lumix TS7 / FT7 has something unique for a waterproof camera: a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). , but it offers a useful alternative to shooting with the rear screen, especially in bright light, which can make composition difficult. There's a lot to like about the Lumix TS7/FT7, including its excellent solid credentials, but it's let down by a sensor that crams too many pixels into a relatively small area.

Read our in depth

Panasonic Lumix TS7 / FT7 review

(Image credit: Future)

8. Insta360 Go 2

This little action camera is good for a dunk

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 9.2 MP

Lens:

11.24mm

Waterproof:

To watch:

Nothing

Movies:

1440p at 50fps

User level:

Beginner

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$11.99

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Reasons to buy

Better image quality than the original

Protective case for charger

Reasons to avoid

No display for framing

Only waterproof to 4m

Small enough to fit in any beach bag, the Insta360 Go 2 is a small camera designed to quickly capture the action wherever you go. At just 26.5g, the Go 2 is as light as a a pebble, but don't let its tiny form fool you: the streamlined camera can capture excellent 1440p video at 50fps, with decent dynamic range and good detail, even in low light mode. is also impressive, if not as good as a GoPro.

And while it's only waterproof to 4 meters, the Insta360 Go 2 is still a great option for recording underwater action. Activate the AquaVision algorithm in the app and the Go 2 will filter footage to reduce mist for brighter results. And while the Go 2's lack of display is an issue for some, its simple controls let you set it and forget it when you dive into the water. back on dry land, the protective charging case doubles as a remote control and tripod, making the Go 2 a versatile waterproof option.

Read our in depth

Reviews on Insta360 Go 2

9. Ricoh WG-60

A rugged waterproof compact with built-in LED lights

Features

Sensor:

1/2.3 inch, 16MP

Lens:

28-140mm

Waterproof:

14m

Frost resistant:

-10°C

Shockproof :

1.6m

To watch:

2.7 inches, 230,000 dots

Movies:

1080p

User level:

Beginner

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$433.79

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$509.99

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Reasons to buy

LED macro lights

Good zoom range

Reasons to avoid

Small low resolution screen

JPEG only

Ricoh's WG-60 has pretty solid credentials – it's waterproof to a depth of 14m/45.9ft and shockproof from a drop of up to 1.6m/5.2ft, so that it should withstand a force of up to 100 kg / 220 lb. It is also dustproof and can operate in temperatures down to -10°C / 14°F.

The 5x optical zoom has a fairly wide focal range, from 28-140mm, while there are six macro LED lights dotted around the front of the lens barrel to provide bright, even illumination around your subject - ideal for photographing underwater subjects. The macro lights also provide other useful functions, such as the LED light mode, which uses the lights to add light to portraits in low light conditions - it should offer a more flattering look than the WG-60's dedicated flash.

Looking for a vacation camera with a longer zoom range? Check out our pick of the best

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and

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