Tons of people love to dive. After all, it becomes possible to see so many new and different things when going underwater. Under the sea, you will see wildly vivid colors, diverse coral, and amazing sea life. And because the experience of being under the water and down in the deep can be unique and life-changing, so many people genuinely want to look for a way to take photos and videos. The best underwater camera for divers can help you keep track of everything you see during your excursions.
With one of these cameras, you can dive down as deep as you’re allowed to. You can capture photos and videos of all the brightly colored fish. Not only that, but you can also photograph all the strange sea creatures down below. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Indeed, if you’re here, then you’re interested in finding out more about these cameras. And we are here to help!
| CAMERA | BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Sony RX100VA |  |  |
 | Canon G7X III | | |
 | Olympus Tough TG-6 |  | |
 | GoPro Hero8 |  | |
 | Canon Rebel T6i | | |
 | Nikon D90 | | |
What exactly is the best underwater camera for divers? In today’s article, we are here to discuss these cameras. Because we want to help you figure out which model suits your needs, we’ve decided to do all of our research. We even decided to ask around for people’s experiences with different models of underwater cameras in 2020. This list will contain the best underwater cameras for diving. And, we’ll discuss every feature so that you know which one is right for you. This list will include multiple options so that there’s a model for every budget and level of experience. Whether you’re a new diver dipping your toes into the world of underwater photography, or an experienced pro looking for better equipment, you’ll find a camera for you.
If you’re ready, so are we. Let’s get started!
How to Choose the Right Underwater Camera for You
When trying to shop around for dive cameras, it can be tough to figure out which one would be the best. Many cameras have similar features, while others may have more than average (with some unnecessary for you). And, of course, the price tags will also end up varying a lot. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, and that just means that there will always be something that you can choose and use, no matter what your budget might be.
However, if you don’t know what to look for in an underwater camera, then chances are you also don’t know how to pick out the best underwater camera for divers out from a list. That’s where we come in! We’ve put together this buying guide so that you know what factors to consider as you shop around. Use this buying guide to help you figure out a suitable model. With our help, you might find the perfect fit.
So what do you need to look for when it comes to an underwater camera? To know what you need, you must first answer a few questions.
What Skill Level are You At?
One of the first things that you will need to consider when you begin to shop around is the level of experience. What skill level are you sitting at? And we don’t just mean when it comes to photography – how skilled you are at diving does matter too. Are you a recreational diver? Or are you perhaps a master diver that might as well be a sea creature? Are you frequently in the water, and do you go deep? Or are you more of the type to stay in the shallower areas as long as you can see the sea life and the seascapes around you?
Recreational Diver
Most recreational divers don’t make it down that deep into the water. As a result, they won’t need an underwater camera with all the bells and whistles. In fact, most of the recreational divers around will probably be happy with a smaller, more mobile option. For example, a GoPro. Who doesn’t know what a GoPro is, right? If not a GoPro, then perhaps they’d be happier with an iPhone setup.
For recreational purposes, the best underwater camera for divers is an affordable one (well, certainly more affordable than the alternatives). Of course, it’s never good to compromise on the quality, so not only should the camera be affordable, but it should produce fantastic results to boot.
A more miniature, more portable camera is ideal if you’re newer to diving. This way, you can focus instead of perfecting your buoyancy. Furthermore, you’ll be able to actually enjoy your dive(s) since you won’t be lugging expensive and gigantic rigs under the water. If you cannot control your movement under the water, your footage will look pretty bad – even if you’ve got expensive state-of-the-art equipment.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to start with cheaper and smaller equipment, and this will prepare you as you move up in skill both in diving and photography. Then, once you are ready, you can make the jump to the next level! The best part is that the more “affordable” gear often produces quality output. So much so that some people never bother to move on to the next level because they feel they have already found the best underwater camera for divers.
Skilled or Advanced Diver
Now, if you’re more of an advanced or skilled diver and have plenty of experience under the sea, you can move on to the next level of gear. As an experienced diver, you won’t have to worry so much about your buoyancy under the water. Therefore, adding a more extensive and bulkier rig will not completely throw you for a loop. With your better diving skills, you’ll be able to adjust and use the rig safely while you are underwater.
As a more advanced diver, you can opt for a full DSLR setup or a more compact setup. Most divers will probably recommend going with the compact setup since it’ll make your life easier both in and out of the water.
How Much are You Willing to Spend?
Next up, you should consider how much you’re willing to spend on an underwater rig. Yep, that basically means that you should consider your budget. Naturally, the best underwater camera for divers might end up costing a lot of money, and it might even break the bank! So before you just buy something impulsively, set a plan and a budget. Save the money for something useful instead – like funding more diving trips! This way, you can purchase something that you’re happy with without blowing all of your money.
Luckily, in this article, we are going to cover just about all the budgets, from low end to mid-range to high end. This way, no matter what your budget is, you will find something that is right for you!
Also, to remember, you have to look beyond just the camera itself when you consider your budget. We mean that to improve the quality of your underwater pics and video, you’ll need additional equipment. Yep, you’ll need housings to keep the device safe on top of the camera. There are also some other optional accessories, but thankfully you don’t necessarily have to purchase those – even if they are highly recommended.
Generally, if you want the best of the best quality in your output, you’ll need:
- Tray
- Video lights and/or strobes
- Flex arms
- Wet lenses
- Filter
- Camera lenses
- Ports
- Housings
Note that lighting isn’t always necessary if you’re a recreational diver who doesn’t plan to go for night dives. The same applies if you don’t plan on going too deep.
Mobility and Portability
Chances are unless you are one of the fortunate ones, you probably have to do a lot of traveling for your SCUBA diving. Most people don’t mind this since it does tend to be worth it. This is just a minor issue for a lot of people.
However, when you add a huge and bulky underwater camera rig, that all might change.
Therefore, if you know that you’ll probably end up lugging around all of your stuff to get where you want to go, you might look for a compact rig. Besides, those luggage fees can pile up and get really expensive!
There is nothing better than traveling and doing your thing without the need for excess baggage. You’ll probably feel so light and so carefree!
Best Underwater Camera for Divers
Now that we’ve talked about the buying guide and the things you need to consider as you shop, it’s finally time! Yep – it’s time to talk about the best underwater camera for divers!
Remember – when you’re shopping for your new setup, you shouldn’t forget to get a wet lens/red lens! These will quickly improve your photo and video quality. This is especially true when it comes to the GoPro and iPhone housings – you’ll notice that using a red filter is so important. The filter will absolutely and completely transform all the colors in your shots!
That said, it’s time to actually get to the important part – talking about the cameras!
[wp-review id=”123″]
RUNNERS UP
[su_service title=” Sony RX100 VA ” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
One of the first cameras that we can recommend is the Sony RX100VA. There’s a pretty good reason why this camera has made it to this list – and we know that shortly you’re going to understand exactly why.
The Sony RX100 VA is a perfect contender for the best underwater camera for divers. This model is arguably one of Sony’s best when it comes to compact cameras. This small and compact device makes it perfect for traveling and using both in and out of the water. It can also take 4K photos and videos to boot! Now, if that’s not enough of a reason for you to be interested, you’ll probably also enjoy knowing that you won’t be suffering from a lack of options when it comes to accessories and housing.
Sony’s RX100 VA is a capable compact unit – here are just some of its features.
- 20.1 megapixel
- Back-illuminated CMOS sensor with DRAM, 1-inch Exmore RS stacked
- 24-200 mm ZEISS Lens (Vario-Sonnar T*) F2.8 – F4.5
- Hybrid autofocus system with three hundred and fifteen phase-detection autofocus points
- High-speed shooting (continuous) speed at 24 frames per second, with AF/AE tracking
- 4K Video
- Super slow motion up to 40x
- Optical image stabilization
- Pop up OLED screen (electric viewfinder) with live view and optical viewfinder immediacy
We can’t quite include many more features in this short review, so it’s probably better to take a look for yourself!
Inclusions Upon Purchase of the Sony RX100 VA
When you buy this camera, you can expect to get the following inclusions:
- The camera
- Rechargeable battery (NP-BX1)
- AC Adapter
- Charging cable (Micro USB)
- Wrist strap and strap adapter
- Manual
- Official authorized dealer warranty from Sony (make sure you purchase from an authorized dealer!)
If you purchase a bundle, you can get the following:
- Camera and all inclusions
- Deco Gear Field Bag/Camera Case for compact point and shoot
- 2 pieces of extra batteries
- Rapid charger
- SanDisk 64 gig Extreme SD memory card
- Memory card storage wallet and card reader
- Cleaning kit for the lens
- Screen protectors
- Cleaning cloth
- Tripod (compact + flexible) and support
[su_row class=””] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”PROS” style=”noise” box_color=”#115F23″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ✔️Robust and durable ✔️4K video, slow motion ✔️Lots of amazing features ✔️Plenty of available accessories on the market [/su_box][/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”CONS” style=”noise” box_color=”#B20010″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ❌Pricier than other similar camera options ❌May look a bit more “plain” to some, though it looks sleek . [/su_box][/su_column] [/su_row]
[su_service title=” Canon G7X III ” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
Next up, we have the Canon G7X III. This camera is another contender for divers’ best underwater camera, especially in the compact camera category. In fact, we had a truly rough time trying to decide between this camera and the Sony RX100 VA – so we just decided to include them both!
Just like the Sony camera, this offering by Canon is also rather sleek and unassuming in design. That doesn’t mean it lacks any sort of features, of course. It’s got plenty! Again, like the Sony RX100 VA, this camera by Canon can shoot in 4K. And so, you get the amazing output – without ever having to drop thousands of dollars on a gigantic diving rig. Plus, you can also shoot in high-speed (slow motion) so that you can capture those beautiful fleeting moments both in and out of the water. You won’t miss a thing! Just whip out your camera and start shooting.
Of course, there are a ton of other features to this camera. Let’s take a look:
- 4K Video
- Slow-motion filming
- 20.1 megapixels
- 4.2x lens with Optical Zoom (24-100mm)
- Optical image stabilizer
- 3-inch touch LCD screen that can tilt up to 180 degrees if you want to take selfies
- Vertical video support
- Capable of live streaming
Inclusions Upon Purchase of the Canon G7 Mark III
When you first buy this camera, there are many things included in the box. Here’s what you can expect:
- Camera
- Canon Li-ion battery NB-13L
- Charger
- Wrist strap
- 1-year warranty (make sure you purchase from an authorized reseller, so you don’t miss out on the warranty!)
You can also buy this model in a bundle. Here’s what you get from the bundle:
- SanDisk 64GB Extreme SD card
- Replacement battery
- Camera case (premium)
- SD memory card reader
- Wallet for memory cards
- LCD screen protection film
- Lens cleaner (lens pen)
- Tabletop tripod or pistol grip
[su_row class=””] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”PROS” style=”noise” box_color=”#115F23″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ✔️Durable ✔️4K video, slow motion ✔️Friendly to the budget [/su_box][/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”CONS” style=”noise” box_color=”#B20010″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ❌Not as many inclusions as the Sony ❌Doesn’t look as sleek or amazing, but it doesn’t have to [/su_box][/su_column] [/su_row]
[su_service title=” Olympus Tough TG-6 ” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
Another recommendation that we have for you is from Olympus. Specifically, it’s the Olympus Tough TG-6 model.
Olympus is a relatively well-known brand when it comes to underwater cameras. They have a number of different options available on the market, some being incredibly affordable, while others are sitting at the higher end of the spectrum. Regardless of which model you choose, one thing’s for sure – you get value for money, along with a camera that is incredibly robust and durable for use under the sea. In particular, this model looks pretty nice in red, and it’s significantly cheaper than other models that we’ve recommended here today.
Of course, there are fewer features because of the price tag (which is at least several hundred dollars more affordable than the next camera). But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. As long as you can accept that the Olympus won’t have the same amazing features as the pricier options, you’ll probably be incredibly happy with this one, especially since it is such a fantastic budget option.
If you’re wondering what the features of this camera are, here you go:
- 12 megapixels BSI 1/2.3″ sensor (CMOS) with TruePic 8 (VIII) image processor
- Olympus optical zoom 4x, f/2 lens, 35 mm equivalent (25-100mm)
- 3-inch LCD monitor that is crush, shock, water, freeze, and dustproof – talk about robust and durable!
- 4K30P video
- Full HD 120-fps video
- Wifi built-in
- Field Sensor System
- GPS
- ISO 12800 & up to 20 frames per second shooting
- Variable macro system
- Pro capture mode
Again, not at all a wrong choice if you consider the fact that this camera is significantly more affordable than the others we’ve included on this list!
Inclusions Upon Purchase of the Olympus Tough TG-6
When you buy this digital underwater camera, you will receive the following accessories in the box:
- Camera (in red)
- Battery LI-92B
- Adapter for charging
- Wrist/hand strap
- Charging cable (micro-USB)
And of course, should you choose to go with the bundle, here is what you can expect:
- SanDisk Class 10 64GB SD card Ultra
- 2 batteries for replacement
- AC/DC fast charger
- 3 piece filter kit – multi-coated HD (includes CPL, UV, FLD)
- 0.43x HD macro lens, wide-angle attachment
- 2.2x telephoto lens HD attachment
- Adapter ring for use with the filters
- Water-resistant carry case
- Gripster tripod (flexible)
- Floating wrist strap
- High-speed card reader
- Starter cleaning kit
- Micro HDMI to HDMI cable
Note that some of the colors of the accessories you receive may vary depending on availability.
[su_row class=””] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”PROS” style=”noise” box_color=”#115F23″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ✔️Significantly more affordable ✔️Lots of accessories in the bundle ✔️Robust and durable [/su_box][/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”CONS” style=”noise” box_color=”#B20010″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ❌Not as well known of a brand as Canon/Sony ❌Quality isn’t as perfect, but still amazing value [/su_box][/su_column] [/su_row]
[su_service title=” Canon Rebel T6i ” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
Now, we’ve finally made it to talking about some of the more complex and advanced rigs underwater. The first one we are going to talk about, which is still somewhat entry-level (well… kind of), is the Canon Rebel T6i.
You probably know about this camera. Honestly, chances are you have heard of this before! About a decade ago, Canon and Nikon were in a war to corner the DSLR market – and the Rebel was one of the contenders. These days, with the huge amount of options (and the advent of camera phones with tons of features) available on the market, DSLRs aren’t quite as popular anymore. But that doesn’t mean they are any less valuable or their output is less impressive.
The T6i is incredibly user-friendly. Suppose you’re completely new to photography and all the accompanying settings and things to learn for your new hobby. There are many tutorials on the internet and many informative articles to help you understand every feature and setting on your new DSLR.
Of course, if you plan to use the T6i for documenting your underwater adventures, you’re going to need many accessories. You’ll need waterproof housing at the very least and then a few attachments to make your camera more manageable and maneuverable underwater. Another thing that you might need is some lighting underwater. So, even if the camera itself is affordable, you also have to factor in all of the accessories you’ll need to invest in on top.
But you get to use this camera out of the water, the plus sideo. And it takes most if not all of Canon’s standard lenses to boot!
The best part about getting a more advanced setup like this one is that you have more options and settings. This can significantly improve the quality of your output. However, it’s going to be bulky and not as portable – so be ready for the compromise.
Oh, and did we mention that this camera has wifi and NFC built-in? Not bad, right?
Inclusions Upon Purchase of the Canon Rebel T6i
There are a few different ways you can buy this camera. You can only purchase the body (this will include the battery and charger), and it will come without a lens. Or, you can purchase the set, including the lens.
We also want to mention that this camera has a cropped sensor setup. This means a part of your photo will be cropped out, and you won’t be getting the full frame.
[su_row class=””] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”PROS” style=”noise” box_color=”#115F23″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ✔️Tons of amazing features, you can fiddle around with a lot of settings to get great results ✔️Cared for properly, can last a long time ✔️Great shooter in and out of the water [/su_box][/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”CONS” style=”noise” box_color=”#B20010″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ❌Requires significant financial and time investment ❌Bulky and takes up a lot of space ❌A bit difficult to maneuver and control . . [/su_box][/su_column] [/su_row]
[su_service title=” Nikon D90 ” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
We can’t very well review the entry-level Canon DSLR without also taking a look at the Nikon option, right? And so, it’s time to take a look at the Nikon D90! The D90 is a bit more expensive, so we suppose you could say it’s not so much entry-level. But it’s still a fantastic offering!
This model is a bit older; there is a new one (Nikon D7500 DX) available if you would prefer that. However, we want to focus on this one as it’s a beautiful camera that offers tons of features you will surely enjoy.
Like the T6i, this camera will need housing and accessories if you want to be able to use it under the water.
The D90 is a favorite of many, both in the water and on land. Chances are, you’ll love it too! And the best part is since it’s so loved by many, it’s incredibly popular. As a result, you will not struggle at all to find accessories for this camera – they’re available everywhere on the market. You can find housing from companies like Aquatica, Nauticam, and Ikelite. No issues finding them at all!
Of course, this camera is also compatible with most if not all of the lenses that Nikon has to offer. Of course, the best part is that Nikon is very well known for having some of the very best lenses on the market.
You can only purchase the D90 body, but you can also purchase it with an 18 to 105 mm lens.
[su_row class=””] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”PROS” style=”noise” box_color=”#115F23″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ✔️Great Nikon lenses ✔️Beautiful results ✔️Accessories are very available . [/su_box][/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””][su_box title=”CONS” style=”noise” box_color=”#B20010″ title_color=”#FFFFFF” radius=”8″ class=””] ❌Pretty pricey ❌Bulky and takes up a lot of space ❌Bigger, a bit difficult to maneuver and control [/su_box][/su_column] [/su_row]
Final Thoughts
Quite honestly, if we were to include even more options on this list (for higher-end products and more advanced kits), you’d be reading for days. For this reason, we’re stopping here – for now. At some point, we can revisit and talk more about the other cameras and kits you can use. We’ll even discuss accessories! There are so many – we’ve yet to discuss full-frame cameras, and we haven’t even touched on lenses. So stick around and watch this space – we’ll have more for you soon.
We hope that this guide has been helpful to you! Our wish is that you are now more capable of finding a suitable camera model for you. We hope you find the best underwater camera for divers here – or that this buying guide has prepared you for finding a better one elsewhere! After finding the right camera for documenting your next diving adventure, you may consider reading some tips about “How to Take an Underwater Photo.”