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Best Waterproof Cameras
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Visibility
No matter what type of camera you are aiming to invest in, the quality of content it produces will always remain a high priority. With most cameras, they will have the ability to both shoot videos and capture images. Let’s address images firstly as it is a bit more in-depth. First and foremost is the image sensor and its integrated technology. In short, the larger a sensor is the more light it can collect and the less noise it picks up. Of course, without the proper technology and processor, the difference between smaller sensors will not be that great. In addition to this, image stabilization technology and the option for RAW formatting are also vital for quality.
Image stabilization manages to reduce the blurring effect that is associated with a motion camera. RAW formatting, on the other hand, as opposed to JPEG, is ideal as it adds little to no processing data to maintain the integrity of the original image. Thus, improving quality. As for videos, check out both the resolution and frames per second. 1080p is classified as full HD and 4K, which is the best, is known as ultra HD and both can produce stellar videos. But, the frames per second also come into play as the higher the amount (say 60 or 120) the smoother the playback will be.
Features
Pure quality is one thing entirely, but cameras live and die by their various features. From one camera to the next, this can vary quite a bit. However, despite this, there are some highly-popular modes that some people may be looking out for. For example, how about a continuous shooting or a Burst Mode? As the name indicates, this allows you to take multiple shots within frames of each other. Clearly, this is not possible without the technology and it is accomplished either by holding down or pressing the shutter button. This is ideal if you are trying to capture subjects that are fast in motion.
Also, as these are waterproof cameras, you may be interested in capturing content underwater. As all photographers know, the lighting is different underwater and as such, special modes are necessary to produce above-average and realistic images and videos. Typically, these types of modes will account for this reduction of lighting to produce the best content possible. Another cool feature that you may be interested in is an integrated GPS. In a camera, this allows you to pinpoint the exact location at which you captured your images.
Water Resistance
All the cameras on this list are different in some ways but alas, they all are waterproof and share that in common. With that being said, not all of them will be rated for the same depths. This “rating” is what you need to pay attention to with waterproof cameras (or anything waterproof for that matter). Because these are waterproof they are not only suitable for splashes and poor weather, but for submersion. The real question you need to ask is why do you want your camera waterproof? Is it just a precaution to protect it from accidents? Do you want to swim with it and produce content underwater? Or, are you looking to do something serious like Scuba dive with it?
This is important because this will determine what rating you need. For example, a camera that is rated to withstand depths of 100 feet of water can be suitable for Scuba diving. According to the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, most Scuba divers only go as deep as 130 feet. But, if you only want to swim with a camera, 25 to 50 feet will do just fine unless you are diving into hardcore depths of water.
Durability
Technically, the camera being waterproof alone makes it somewhat rugged. However, there is much more that goes into it. With most of the cameras on this list, they are also shockproof, dustproof, crushproof, and freezeproof in some way. Again, there will be ratings that accompany this. Accidents happen when you are handling technology devices so sporting a design that is not fragile is ideal. Even if it is only rated to withstand drops of five feet, this will protect it when it drops from the average person’s hand. Ditto for being crushproof. Then, there is the integration of being freezeproof. If you desired, this would allow your camera to be operated in most winter conditions.
Top 10 Picks
1. Olympus TG-5
It is not a coincidence that on nearly every “best of” list that you look at for waterproof cameras, the Olympus TG-5 reigns supreme. In terms of pure performance and an overall design, no other waterproof camera can compare.
Read moreVideo Quality
Besides being able to shoot 1080p video at 120 frames per second, the TG-5 is also capable of shooting 4K video (although it is cropped). In addition, it features a specialized image sensor and a dual quad-core processor that produces sharp photos and minimizes noise.
Camera Features
A Microscope Control Mode allows you to magnify the lens up to 44x. Also, the Focus Bracketing and Focus Stacking modes allow you to maximize the depth of your photos. To top it off, it features a GPS and a compass.
Waterproofness
No protective housing is needed and this camera is rated down to 50 feet underwater. However, the lens is also equipped with an anti-fog dual pane protective glass that prevents moisture from getting through.
Ruggedness
This is built to withstand nearly anything you can throw at it as it is dustproof, crushproof up to 220 pounds and also shockproof for drops up to seven feet in height.
The Interface
Even with heavy-duty gloves, the knobs and buttons are easy to operate. As for the LCD screen, it is three inches in diameter but it is not overly-crisp.
Overall
Consider this camera the king of waterproof cameras. Even though it is not perfect and does have its minor caveats, no other waterproof camera combines performance, quality, and durability better.
2. Nikon W300
The Nikon W300 Camera can be taken to depths so far and you will be amazed that it still functions. With a waterproof rating down to 100 feet, anything you can imagine is a realistic possibility.
Read moreVideo Quality
Nikon designed their Coolpix W300 with the capability of shooting either 4K Ultra HD or 1080p Full HD. Also, it comes equipped with a 16-megapixel low-light sensor that provides optimal image quality.
Camera Features
There are several shooting modes for you to try out an experiment with. Some of the most notable is a Short Movie Show which allows you to combine background music, a Macro Mode to reveal hidden details in your surroundings and continuous shooting.
Waterproofness
Of all the waterproof cameras on this list, none possess the depth of the Coolpix W300. It can handle down to 100 feet of water which allows you to take it fishing, snorkeling and even Scuba diving.
Ruggedness
Besides being waterproof, it is also freezeproof up to 14-degrees, shockproof for heights up to 7.9 feet, and dustproof. All in all, it can take some abuse.
The Interface
Even a caveman could operate this camera, relatively speaking. It features an extra-large grip and ideal button placement that allows it to be functioned with one hand. Also, when wearing gloves, you can simply move the camera to change modes. To top it off, the LCD screen is anti-reflective to handle sunny days.
Overall
Truthfully, everyone remembers first place but there is no shame in second-place. Given that this second-place entry is as competent as it is, some users may even prefer it over the Olympus TG-5.
3. Fujifilm Finepix
When it comes to manufacturing cameras, Fujifilm knows a thing or two. It just so happens that their FinePix XP80 Camera is not only waterproof down to 50 feet but also equipped with terrific camera features such as a panorama mode.
Read moreVideo Quality
What is nice is not only can you shoot 1080p video, you can do so at 60 frames per second as opposed to 30. Even more so, the 16 million pixels sensor ensures high-quality images and there is image stabilization technology.
Camera Features
The included Burst Mode is convenient when you need continuous shots of whatever you are recording; doing so at 10 frames per second. Past this, there is an interval shooting mode that allows pictures to be taken at set intervals (which you can select from).
Waterproofness
It is waterproof down to 50 feet and as opposed to the competition, that is a strong depth. Some possess greater depths but 50 feet does allow for a lot of functionality.
Ruggedness
In colder climates, anything above 14-degrees Fahrenheit, this camera can still operate. Also, it can handle drops up to 5.8 feet and is dustproof.
The Interface
Not only does the LCD screen have an anti-reflective coating for visibility in bright conditions, it also prevents unnecessary battery drain as the screen brightness is automatically adjusted based on the current lighting conditions.
Overall
For almost everyone, this is going to be an optimal choice. Yeah, quality aficionados may prefer cameras with 4K functionality but do not worry, this is more than capable of shooting high-quality content.
4. Leica X-U Digital
Okay, so the price tag on this waterproof camera is going to scare a lot of people. While this is not in any way, shape, or form indicative of its placement on this list, it goes without saying that it will scare some people off.
Read moreVideo Quality
Thanks to the large 16.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor, a wide array of lighting conditions is suitable to work with. For the video quality, you can shoot 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second.
Camera Features
To adapt to the colors and ambiance of the underwater environment, there is a dedicated Underwater shooting mode. In addition to this are other modes such as Dynamic, High-Contrast, Natural and many more.
Waterproofness
For up to one hour of continuous shooting, this camera can withstand depths of water down to 49 feet. Anything farther or past that time will risk the integrity of the camera.
Ruggedness
Not only is this shockproof from heights of up to four feet and dustproof, it is also designed with an anti-slip rubber to minimize the chance of accidental drops. To top it off, there is a UW protective glass filter that guards the front.
The Interface
The LCD screen itself is a 3-inch display that offers bright playback. However, the aspect that deserves the most praise is the intuitive placement of the speed and aperture control dials (right on the top plate of the camera).
Overall
For a waterproof camera of this magnitude, in terms of cost, many may have expected a bit more. Indeed, this is a fair claim but do not let that cloud the fact that this remains one of the better models out there.
5. Ricoh 16
As an everyday camera, you may be a bit disappointed with this camera. It can shoot full HD video but only at 30 frames per second. In addition, it does lack image stabilization and the use of RAW formatting. However, its ultra-rugged design and waterproofness certainly make up for those minor shortcomings.
Read moreVideo Quality
Yes, it may appear on the surface that this sports poor video quality. But, that is not true because the 16 megapixels and 1080p functionality provide clear and high-quality content.
Camera Features
In Auto mode, the Ricoh 16 does a superb job of automatically switching between modes it feels are most ideal. But, specifically for underwater, the specific underwater mode accommodates for the reduced lighting.
Waterproofness
With a waterproof rating for depths down to 45 feet, this is suitable for most water activities. However, for Scuba divers, it can be a bit limited.
Ruggedness
Good luck accidentally damaging this camera as it is prepared for the harshest of elements. This includes a crushproof rating of up to 220 pounds, shockproof rating of up to 5.2 feet drops and freezeproof rating of down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Interface
Overall, the LCD screen is not going to blow you away. At just 2.7 inches, it is not the largest and the visual quality is not quite indicative of the final image quality.
Overall
This is actually one of the more popular models available when it comes tow waterproof cameras. Notwithstanding its limited nature in some respects, it has enough features and fun for most.
6. GoPro Hero5
As opposed to the others, the GoPro HERO5 Session is a little different. Instead of being a point-and-shoot camera, it is actually an action camera. Because of its design, it can be mounted on any object you can imagine (with accessories) and the HERO5 Session just so happens to be waterproof.
Read moreVideo Quality
For such a small camera, it is quite compelling that the HERO5 Session can shoot 4K video. Overall, it captures smooth video and you should be more than pleased with the result.
Camera Features
There are single, burst and time-lapse modes available for you to select from. Also, when you press the Shutter button, the camera will be powered on and will start recording autonomously.
Waterproofness
The HERO5 Session can withstand depths of water that down to 33 feet. While this is not the best for Scuba diving, it will suffice for normal water activities.
Ruggedness
Despite it sporting a small stature, it is actually quite rugged and durable. It does not even need an additional housing as the lens is behind reinforced glass that is secured by several screws.
The Interface
You will not find an LCD screen on this camera but fear not, you can tether it to your smartphone to fix many of the interface issues present.
Overall
Know what you are getting with the HERO5 Session as opposed to the rest, it works best with additional accessories because it is designed to be mounted on several different objects.
7. Nikon AW1
Nikon is yet another brand that you have no doubt heard of and for good reason. While some users and testings have questioned the AW1’s waterproofness, it just so happens to be one of the only cameras on the planet that is waterproof with an interchangeable lens.
Read moreVideo Quality
With fixed focus, this is capable of shooting at 60 frames per second but this drops to 15 with full autofocus. In addition, you can shoot full HD 1080p video and the 14.2-megapixel image sensor produces stellar images.
Camera Features
One of the best features of the Nikon 1 AW1 is the Slow View Mode as this allows you to slow down a clip of action to ensure a perfectly timed shot. Past this, you can also preview effects such as motion blur and background softening on your images.
Waterproofness
This is ideal for swimming, rafting, snorkeling, you name it, with a waterproof rating down to 49 feet.
Ruggedness
Not only is this ideal for your summer activities, it also accommodates winter very well. Because it still operates over 14 degrees Fahrenheit, it could be used for snow sports. Oh yeah, it can also handle drops of up to 6.6 feet.
The Interface
Navigating through the camera’s software is quite easy thanks to the simple user interface. Plus, with action control, you can move through menus by tilting your hand.
Overall
This is one of the pricier options on this list and while it may not quite be worth the astronomical price tag, it remains highly-functional and terrific as, after all, Nikon did manufacturer it.
8. Sealife DC2000
SeaLife is probably not the first manufacturer many people think of when imagining the best cameras in the world. They may not have the market value of a Nikon or Canon but guess what, their DC2000 Camera, in some respects, is one of the best.
Read moreVideo Quality
Not only does the image sensor feature 20 megapixels but you can also capture images via RAW formatting, as opposed to JEPG. In addition, full 1080p HD video can be captured at 60 frames per second.
Camera Features
With the DC2000, there are modes up the wazoo. This includes eight standard shooting modes and when submerged in water, four special modes such as snorkel and external flash.
Waterproofness
This actually has one of the more impressive waterproof ratings on the market. Being capable of dropping below depths no further than 60 feet, it can be used for any water sport imaginable.
Ruggedness
If you were to accidentally drop this camera, granted it does not exceed heights of five feet, it is designed to withstand it.
The Interface
Due to the large piano-key buttons on the interface, it is easy to navigate through this camera underwater. However, the controls are a bit quirky and the LCD screen only takes up about half the area.
Overall
At first, you may be hesitant to buy from a manufacturer you may have never heard of before. Fear not because as the specifications and performance prove this is a worthy addition.
9. Panasonic Lumix
Just because this next camera does not feature the performance benefits and quality advantages of some of the others, it does not signify that it is expendable. In fact, it is rugged enough to handle all the elements and even includes some internal memory for storage.
Read moreVideo Quality
Hand shaking can be an issue and this camera compensates for it to produce better images. However, its max resolution for videos is 720p.
Camera Features
To account for the colors beneath the surface, there is a special underwater mode. Also, it does feature a panorama function for a 360-degree outlook.
Waterproofness
In terms of depth, this is one of the most limited cameras on the list. At just 26 feet, you can all but forget about Scuba diving with this camera.
Ruggedness
Besides boasting a waterproof design, the Lumix is also shockproof, dustproof, and freezeproof.
The Interface
The 2.3-inch LCD screen is not the greatest but will suffice. But, the interface and button-layout are very user-friendly and easy to understand.
Overall
If you are not too picky when it comes to video and image quality, this is a perfect match for you. It suffers in that respects a little but makes up for it with its rugged design.
10. Olympus Stylus TG-630
This waterproof camera is the closest you can get to indestructible as it is not only waterproof, but freezeproof, shockproof, and dust proof. If you are an adventurer then this is the camera for you, as no matter what the terrain and weather throw your way, you will be able to document it all with your new camera from Olympus.
Read moreVideo Quality
This camera is 1080P and films in full HD, it also has HDMI output and input to ensure you can hook it directly to your TV or computer to view the video instantly.
Camera Features
Thanks to Smart AUTO technology, it will detect scenes and adjust accordingly by assessing factors in both the subject and background. The zoom can also not be matched on this camera and not only allows you to zoom in but the quality stays clear to capture an up close and personal photo.
Waterproofness
This camera is waterproof and can be submerged up to 16ft.
Ruggedness
This camera not only is waterproof but also freezeproof up to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, shockproof up to dropping 5 ft, and dustproof to ensure you can bring this camera in any terrain and still capture photos.
The Interface
Screen size is a little small on this camera at 3inchs so you can operate no problem above water, but if you are submerged you may have a hard time using the screen underwater.
Overall
An impressive waterproof rating, a very rugged exterior and above-average video quality are just some of the reasons that the Olympus TG-630 landed its way on this list.
Sources
- , The 10 best waterproof cameras in 2019, article