The best underwater cameras are essential for professional photographers to record stunning videos and photos below the surface.
A quick search on google will give you many options, proving that the need to buy an underwater camera has been increasing more and more. Nevertheless, choosing the right model can be challenging due to the market’s complexity and a wide range of brands.
To save time, I have assembled a list containing the best underwater camera for scuba diving, numbering up to 12. Also, I have attached a buying guide with useful tips that you should not skip reading if you really want to make the best purchase.
Table of Contents
My Top Picks
Underwater cameras are essential for any scuba divers who want to capture high-quality videos and images. If you are looking for quick answers, you are in the right section. Below is a list of the best underwater cameras for scuba diving and their key features to consider.
- Best Overall: GoPro HERO8 Black
“hree levels of stabilization, foldable fingers at the base, expandable mods, digital lenses, super lightweight and compact.” - Best Budget: Sony RX100 VII
“igh-magnification zoom lens, AI real-time tracking and touch tracking, Interval Shooting mode, Movie Edit feature, captures fast-moving objects.” - Best for Snorkeling: Olympus Tough TG-6
“nti-fog design, 8x zoom lenses, a built-in changeable macro system, underwater microscope shooting mode, ideal for cold diving.” - Best Professional: Nikon D850
“ikon’s First Back-side Illuminated Full-Frame Sensor, Silent Photography feature, Focus Peaking function, great flexibility, incredible battery performance.” - Best Underwater Action Camera: Garmin VIRB Ultra 30
“.75-inch screen, G-Metrix technology, built-in GPS, altimeter, and compass, perfect for scuba diving and various outdoor sports.” - Best Underwater Compact Camera: Panasonic LUMIX LX10
“ptical Image Stabilizer, manual lens-mounted control ring, supports Wi-Fi connectivity, Depth From Defocus feature, allows divers to control exposure.” - Best for Beginners: SeaLife Micro 3.0
“hree digital underwater color correction filters, manual white balance available, 64GB internal memory, long battery life.” - Best for Kids: Canon EOS 7D Mark II
“ual DIGIC 6 Image Processors, Intelligent Viewfinder II, ergonomic design, robust construction, ideal for still and fast-moving photography.” - Best Value for the Money: Sony Alpha 7 II
“nterchangeable lens, 5-axis image stabilization, WhiteMagic technology, Supports near field communication (NFC).” - Best for Murky Water: Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III
“IGIC 8 Image processor, Vertical Video feature, Compatible with USB charging, HDMI output, Ideal for vlogging, function as a webcam.”
Comparison Chart
Except for luck, getting the finest underwater camera is not straightforward, especially when you are a first-timer. Every item poses the best buy until you purchase it and realize that you have made a wrong decision.
Hence, I’ve collected the top 12 best underwater cameras for scuba diving that are currently available on the market for your reference. Besides, I attached the following comparison table to furnish you with all the swift details.
The 12 Best Underwater Camera for Scuba Diving Reviews
All scuba divers want their cameras to last a while before replacement. And I guess you are not an exception. An item with the finest quality not only gives you wonderful experiences but also ensures your utmost safety.
However, only a few choices available on the market will fit so well since your needs and diving skills are different from others. For that reason, let’s delve into comprehensive reviews of the top 12 best underwater cameras for scuba diving below to get accurate decision-making.
1. GoPro HERO8 Black
(Best Overall)
There are some outstanding benefits that scuba divers should not skip the GoPro HERO8 Black. First of all, it comes with three levels of stabilization – On, High and Boost. Therefore, there is no doubt that this camera provides you with the widest shooting angles and smoothest videos.
Particularly designed for underwater use, the GoPro HERO8 Black includes a streamlined design and pocketable size to facilitate your movements in the water. Besides, it is equipped with lots of folding fingers at the base to use different mounts.
High durability is another advantage of the GoPro HERO8 Black. Its lens can be twice as impact-resistant as previous versions. The camera also has a new digital lens which enables you to frame your diving shots at ease.
Check out this article to see more outstanding GoPro cameras for scuba diving.
Key Features:
- Three levels of stabilization
- Foldable fingers at the base
- Expandable mods
- Digital lenses
- Night Lapse Video function
- Horizon leveling feature
Pros:
- Super lightweight and compact
- Easy to use underwater
- The digital lenses make it simple to frame shots
- Suitable for different mounts
- Offers excellent image quality
- Support RAW shooting capability
- Ideal for beginners
Cons:
- Its image sensor provides lower resolution than most underwater cameras in this list
- No HDMI port
- No manual white balance is available
Product Specifications:
| Brand | GoPro |
| Dimension | 1.14 x 1.89 x 2.6 inches |
| Weight | 4.4 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K 60 fps |
| Max Photo Resolution | 12 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| Maximum Depth Rating | 33 feet (without a housing) |
| Shooting Modes | 3 (Photo, Burst, and Night Modes) |
Learn more about the Hypersmooth 2.0 and other amazing functions of the GoPro HERO8 Black by checking the following video.
2. Sony RX100 VII
(Best Budget)
Despite having a compact body, the Sony RX100 VII is constructed with numerous features and functions to deliver stunning underwater footage. Firstly, it comes with a 20.1 MP sensor that ensures superior quality.
Besides, the high-magnification zoom lens is engineered to maximize resolution and sharpness even when you take telephotos. Image stabilization is added to this camera to create smooth shots according to your movements.
If you want to help viewers feel realistic and fascinating as if they are in the scenes, I advise inserting marine creatures’ sounds by using the external microphone jack. Notably, capturing footage from high and low angles is effortless with an LCD screen that tilts up to 180 degrees.
Key Features:
- High-magnification zoom lens
- AI real-time tracking and touch tracking
- Interval Shooting mode
- Image stabilization
- Movie Edit feature
- 1.0-type stacked CMOS image sensor
- The BIONZ X image-processing engine
Pros:
- It offers telephoto capability, although it has a small size
- Supports huge zoom range
- The touch-to-operate function is available
- Ultra-lightweight
- Be able to capture fast-moving objects
- Suitable for macro shooting
- 20.1 MP sensor can deliver premium image quality
- The image stabilization reduces hand shake’s effects
- A microphone jack allows the camera to capture audio while recording video
Cons:
- Requires additional cost for underwater housings
- Not ideal for professional photographers
- Difficult to take pictures in the low-light conditions
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Sony |
| Dimension | 4 x 1.7 x 2.4 inches |
| Weight | 9.8 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max Photo Resolution | 20.1 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | Auto |
| Maximum Depth Rating | 200 feet (with Fantasea Housing) 330 feet (with Nauticam Housing) |
| Shooting Modes | AF-A, Steady Shot, Single Burst |
Here is a video review of the Sony RX100 VII. Check it out and see if it is a worthy investment.
3. Olympus Tough TG-6
(Best for Snorkeling – Editor’s Choice)
With a compact design and intuitive interface, it is no doubt that the Olympus Tough TG-6 is one of the best underwater cameras for inexperienced divers. Besides, the model also is constructed with excellent water resistance, making it suitable for scuba diving and snorkeling.
The Olympus Tough TG-6 includes various features for capturing videos and images, such as a wide-angle F2.0 lens, a high-speed CMOS sensor, and four macro shooting modes. The camera can snap crisp and vivid pictures with great ease, thanks to that.
In addition, despite being a lightweight and compact camera, the Olympus Tough TG-6 also has a rugged and robust construction, giving it the ability to operate well in all conditions. However, one of the item’s downsides is its poorer image quality than DSLRs.
Key Features:
- Anti-fog design
- Integrated with 8x zoom
- Back-illuminated sensor
- A built-in changeable macro system
- A high-resolution F2.0 lens
- Underwater microscope shooting mode
Pros:
- Be able to dustproof, shockproof, and crushproof
- Designed to withstand regardless of your diving environments
- Ideal for cold diving
- Simple to take photos in low-light conditions
- Super-lightweight
- It can be used with various kinds of accessories
- Come with durable construction
- The ability to zoom up to eight times enables you to capture aquatic scenes with sharp details
- Its price tag is much lower than GoPro cameras
Cons:
- Only some functions can be changed manually
- Not perfect choice for advanced underwater videographers
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Olympus |
| Dimension | 2.6 x 4.4 x 1.3 inches |
| Weight | 9 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K 120 fps |
| Max Photo Resolution | 12 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | 3 |
| Maximum Depth Rating | 50 feet (150 feet with a housing) |
| Shooting Modes | 5 |
Watch this video of the fantastic Olympus Tough TG-6 and see more of its features.
4. Nikon D850
(Best Professional)
Most divers praise that the Nikon D850 is a successful improved version of the famous DSLR series. With a 45.7 MP sensor, this model can enable you to capture fast motions in high resolution as well as exceptional sharpness.
The autofocus feature combined with NIKKOR lenses makes it simple to take pictures in darkness. Meanwhile, the Focus Peaking function will allow for manual changes. Bluetooth connectivity is another upside of the Nikon D850.
When you travel, it is convenient for you to share stunning photos of underwater worlds with your friends or family members, thanks to Bluetooth Low Energy. Moreover, this function is designed to operate without consuming much battery and remotely control the camera.
Key Features:
- Nikon’s First Back-side Illuminated Full-Frame Sensor
- Tilting touchscreen
- EXPEED 5 processor
- Silent Photography feature
- NIKKOR lenses
- Focus Peaking function
- Compatible with Nikon’s SnapBridge app
- Bluetooth Low Energy
Pros:
- Its 45.7 MP sensor offers you crisp photos with extraordinary resolution
- Its design gives great flexibility
- You can focus manually, thanks to the Focus Peaking function
- Designed to bring divers incredible battery performance
- Easy to synchronize your images and photos to electronic devices via Bluetooth connectivity
- Suitable for remote shooting
Cons:
- Because it is a DSLR camera, it is a little heavy
- Bulkier than action and compact cameras
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Nikon |
| Dimension | 5.8 x 3.1 x 4.9 inches |
| Weight | 32.32 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max Photo Resolution | 45.7 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | Auto |
| Shooting Modes | Time-Lapse, Autofocus, Silent Photography |
Check out this video of the Nikon D850 and learn how to use it.
5. Garmin VIRB Ultra 30
(Best Underwater Action Camera)
Having the smallest screen on this list, the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is one of the finest choices for scuba divers and adventure lovers. This camera can capture spectacular footage thanks to a high-resolution lens and 3-axis image stabilization.
Meanwhile, the G-Metrix technology is another attractive benefit of the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 since it constantly tracks your data like speed, elevation, and heart rate. Based on those statistics, you can make calculations to improve performance and set up a workout plan.
Key Features:
- Built-in GPS, altimeter, and compass
- 1.75-inch screen
- Voice control function
- 3-axis image stabilization
- G-Metrix technology
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
Pros:
- Perfect for not only scuba diving but also various outdoor sports
- Be able to capture performance data
- Operate well with or without a waterproof housing
- Take underwater footage by using voice commands
- The 3-axis image stabilization ensures high-quality photos and videos
Cons:
- Its small screen may be difficult to see
- It requires a protective case for deep diving
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Garmin |
| Dimension | 2.4 x 1.2 x 1.62 inches |
| Weight | 3.2 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K 30 fps |
| Max Photo Resolution | 12 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| Maximum Depth Rating | 131.234 feet (with a housing) |
See the video below to learn how to take advantage of the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30’s functions and capabilities.
6. Panasonic LUMIX LX10
(Best Underwater Compact Camera)
Point-and-shoot cameras often impress divers with their compact size and ease of use, and thus, they are always top priorities for travelers. And the Panasonic LUMIX LX10 is one of the most popular choices due to its amazing features as well as particular capabilities.
At a glance, this model comes with a portable design, meaning that it is small enough to be stored neatly in your travel BCD’s pocket. It supports USB charging and Wi-Fi connectivity as well. Therefore, you can transfer fabulous underwater footage to mobile devices at ease anywhere.
This feature helps to increase your camera’s memory capacity and, at the same time, avoid accidental losses. Furthermore, the ability to recharge through USB ports will bring you many conveniences when traveling.
Additionally, offering inferior image quality is a great disadvantage of compact cameras. Nevertheless, this does not exist in the Panasonic LUMIX LX10. This item is integrated with a manual lens-mounted control ring, enabling divers to adjust exposure like DSLRs.
Besides, the LUMIX LX10 can create top-quality photos in super-sharp detail thanks to a built-in 20.1 sensor and the four-time resolution of standard Full HD. The Optical Image Stabilizer is another bonus point since it makes the camera automatically correct handshake.
Key Features:
- MOS sensor
- 3x zoom ILUX lens
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- 180-degree selfie rear LCD
- A manual lens-mounted control ring
- USB 2.0 micro-B and micro-HDMI type D
- Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
- Depth From Defocus feature
Pros:
- Comes with a USB charging
- Effortless to connect this camera to your electronic devices such as phones or laptops, thanks to different port types
- The Optical Image Stabilizer helps to enhance smoothness and improve image quality by reducing lens shake
- Designed to take selfie photos effortlessly
- It allows divers to control exposure
- Perfect for traveling
- Be able to create a 4K still image as well as deliver excellent video quality
- Its straightforward design is ideal for beginners
Cons:
- No manual flash control
- Not support macro shooting
- Requires a protective case to go deeper
- Not the cheapest underwater camera on the market
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Dimension | 1.6 x 4.2 x 2.4 inches |
| Weight | 10.9 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K 30 fps |
| Max Photo Resolution | 20.1 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | 9 (Auto White Balance, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Flash, Incandescent, White Set 1, White Set 2, and Color Temperature) |
| Shooting Modes | Manual |
Watch this comprehensive video review of the Panasonic LUMIX LX10 to see how compact and convenient it is in action.
7. SeaLife Micro 3.0
(Best for Beginners)
The SeaLife Micro 3.0 is the best option for novice divers because of its ergonomic design and intuitive display. The camera includes large piano key buttons, allowing you to control and navigate easily, even with one hand.
Unlike most compact underwater cameras, the SeaLife Micro 3.0 provides divers with a manual white balance. This enables you to adjust particular settings to suit different light conditions and diving environments. From that, it is easier for you to capture stunning photos.
Besides, the camera is integrated with three digital underwater color correction filters plus an electronic image stabilization. These features minimize blur from a handshake, and hence, your video can get the utmost smoothness.
I love using the SeaLife Micro 3.0 since it comes with no O-rings. This means that the model is permanently sealed and so effortless to maintain. However, I don’t particularly appreciate that this camera’s image sensor offers limited resolution, which seems to give inferior image quality.
Key Features:
- Five scene modes
- Three digital underwater color correction filters
- Manual white balance available
- 64GB internal memory
- Fully rubber body
- 100-degree wide-angle lens
Pros:
- Effortless to operate thanks to large piano key buttons
- Designed to provide you with easy maintenance
- Ultra-fast shutter response is helpful for underwater photography
- It can be used with Sea Dragon dive light and Flex-Connect mounting system
- Long battery life
- Suitable for travelers thanks to the compact design
- The RAW image format function allows for unlimited editing capability
- Simple to maintain
- Tremendous memory
Cons:
- The image sensor has limited resolution
- Some advanced manual controls are missing
- Not the best choice for low-light environments
Product Specifications:
| Brand | SeaLife |
| Dimension | 5.2 x 5.7 x 3.75 inches |
| Weight | 11.6 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K 30 fps/ 1080p HD 120 fps |
| Max Photo Resolution | 16 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | 7 (Auto, Manual, Underwater Deep, Underwater Shallow, Underwater Green, Daylight, Cloudy) |
| Maximum Depth Rating | 200 feet (with a housing) |
| Shooting Modes | 5 (Single, Continuous, Time Lapse, Burst and AEB) |
| Battery Type | 2000 mAh Li-ion battery |
Check out this video of the SeaLife Micro 3.0 and see how much more it has to offer.
8. Canon EOS 7D Mark II
(Best for Kids)
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II comes with rugged and sturdy construction. Hence, it can work well even in the most challenging environments. Thanks to a 20.2 MP CMOS sensor, this camera can produce excellent quality regardless of still or fast-moving photography.
The connectivity is another advantage of the Canon EOS 7D Mark II. Instead of supporting Bluetooth technology as the Nikon D850 does, this model is particularly designed to be compatible with the Wi-Fi Adapter W-E1.
This practical feature gives the Canon EOS 7D ability to pair with various kinds of electronic devices for image transfer. With this smart design, you can also remotely adjust its default settings.
Key Features:
- 20.2 MP CMOS sensor
- Dual DIGIC 6 Image Processors
- Ergonomic design
- Intelligent Viewfinder II
- Autofocus function
- Compatible with the Wi-Fi Adapter W-E1
Pros:
- 10fps continuous shooting is possible
- Offers reliable and speedy performance
- Simple to focus even in dim lighting
- It can withstand the harshest diving conditions
- Ideal for still and fast-moving photography
- Effortless to change default settings
- Supports remote control and image transfer via wireless communication
Cons:
- A little heavy
- No image stabilization integrated
- No information about maximum depth rating
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Canon |
| Dimension | 3.1 x 5.9 x 4.4 inches |
| Weight | 32 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 1080p |
| Max Photo Resolution | 20.2 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | Custom |
Here is a video review of the amazing Canon EOS 7D Mark II. Check it out for more details on functionality and features.
9. Sony Alpha 7 II
(Best Value for the Money)
The Sony Alpha 7 II is proud to be the first full-frame camera in the world to have 5-axis image stabilization compared to 2-axis one in previous versions. Therefore, it can reduce blur from camera shake almost completely.
In addition, the model comes with an updated autofocus algorithm. This means that the focusing speed and performance is faster and better by about 30% than its predecessor – the Sony Alpha 7. Meanwhile, a tiltable LCD screen makes it simple to selfie in crowds.
One thing I love about the Sony Alpha 7 II is its “one-touch connection” ability. Aside from Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, this camera also supports near-field communication (NFC). This feature is so convenient when I want to back-up photos to my smartphone and laptop.
Key Features:
- 0.5-type electronic viewfinder
- Super-fast autofocus feature
- Interchangeable lens
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Tiltable 3-inch LCD screen
- WhiteMagic technology
- Supports near field communication (NFC)
- Remote Camera Control function
- Compatible with Sony’s XLR Adaptor Microphone Kits
Pros:
- The image stabilization works well both on land and underwater
- Be able to post your photos directly to Facebook or virtual cloud
- One-touch to connect
- WhiteMagic technology increase visibility under strong light
- Simple to focus
- The subject-tracking performance and focusing speed has been enhanced
- Minimize blur
- Lightweight and compact
- Perfect choice for you to selfie in crowds
Cons:
- Requires high price
- The 3-inch LCD screen is sometimes considered cumbersome
- Its image sensor does not provide the highest resolution in this list
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Sony |
| Dimension | 5 x 2.36 x 3.78 inches |
| Weight | 15.1 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 1080p 120 fps |
| Max Photo Resolution | 24.3 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | 2 (Auto, Daylight) |
| Shooting Modes | APS-C full-frame |
10. Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III
(Best for Murky Water)
The Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III is engineered to be a compact size that facilitates traveling by plane. It is equipped with capturing 4K video capability, ensuring excellent quality in low-light environments.
Besides, an external microphone helps to minimize unwanted sounds for your video. Its powerful DIGIC 8 Image Processor makes it easy to deliver wonderful diving shots. However, this camera comes with only 4.2x optical zoom lenses, which are hard to take telephoto.
Another advantage of the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III is that it lets you record vertical videos and share them on social platforms effortlessly.
Key Features:
- DIGIC 8 Image processor
- 4.2x optical zoom lens
- Vertical Video feature
- Compatible with USB charging
- HDMI output
Pros:
- It comes with excellent water resistance
- Provide you with great performance in low-light conditions
- The interface is intuitive and offers great ease of use
- It gives you high durability regardless of diving environments
- It can be used as a webcam
- Allow you to capture vertical video
- Ideal for vlogging
- Reduce sound distortion
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some other models in this list
- Limited zoom lens
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Canon |
| Dimension | 1.6 x 4.1 x 2.4 inches |
| Weight | 13.1 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K 30p/ Full HD 120p |
| Max Photo Resolution | 20.1 MP |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | Auto |
| Maximum Depth Rating | 200 feet (with a housing) |
| Shooting Modes | 9 (Scene Intelligent, Auto Flash Off, Creative, Auto Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Food, Night, Portrait) |
This Youtube video will equip you with thorough knowledge about the Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III autofocus function. It also highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the camera.
11. Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition
What makes the Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition stand out from other competitors is its 2-in-1 design, allowing you to use it as a 360-degree camera or a wide-angle action camera. Hence, this is a fabulous saving-money option that all scuba divers should not skip!
First of all, it can shoot images or videos with up to 5.7K resolution. What’s more, thanks to a powerful processor plus the AI editing function, your underwater footage always stays clear and stunning even when taken in darkness. Besides, this camera can also produce HDR-quality photos.
Another good point of the Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition is that it is packed with a wide range of professional image shooting and editing features. Some can be easily listed as FlowState Stabilization, Invisible Selfie Stick, Deep Track, Shot Lab, and Color Plus.
The ONE R’s water-resistant ability is restricted to only 16.4 feet without a protective case. This means that you should only use it for snorkeling and shallow diving. But, with the competitive price tag and too many benefits that a few compact cameras like this model can offer, that drawback is acceptable.
Key Features:
- The design combines a 360-degree camera and a wide-angle action camera
- FlowState Stabilization mode
- Up to 5.7K resolution
- IPX8 waterproof
- AI Editing function
- Single tap or voice command in 360 shooting mode
- ONE R’s Invisible Selfie Stick feature
- A built-in GPS tracking system
Pros:
- Its lens can be changed manually to be suitable for your shooting needs
- FlowState Stabilization offers you smooth and seamless footage
- Come with a sturdy construction
- Simple to use
- Easy to switch between 360-degree and wide-angle shooting.
- Its price point is reasonable for most divers
- The camera enables you to preview footage
- Be able to capture videos and images in the low-light environments high quality
- The Shot Lab function facilities editing your diving shots
- You can control the item with your voice when shooting in 360
Cons:
- Limited waterproof
- Not support complete manual control
- It requires an additional cost for buying a waterproof case
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Insta360 |
| Dimension | 9.02 x 4.33 x 2.32 inches |
| Weight | 2.47 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K 60 fps |
| RAW Format | Yes |
| White Balance Modes | 5 (Auto, 2700K, 4000K, 5000K, 6500K) |
| Maximum Depth Rating | 16.4 feet (without a housing) |
| Shooting Modes | 6 (Standard, HDR, Burst, Interval photos, Night Shot, PureShot) |
| Battery Type | 1190mAh rechargeable |
The video below will explain why you should purchase the Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition if you want to get excellent diving shots.
12. Nikon COOLPIX W300
If you want to scuba dive in icy destinations, I suggest you purchase the Nikon COOLPIX W300. This camera is constructed to be freezeproof to offer stellar images and videos. The model is also super-lightweight which facilitates moving with your bulky wetsuit.
Besides, one upside of the Nikon COOLPIX W300 favors me is that it comes with an intuitive interface and large buttons. Thanks to that, I can navigate the menus effortlessly to get one-handed shooting, even when wearing thick gloves.
The Nikon COOLPIX W300 supports recording 4K Ultra HD videos, while its Short Movie Show function enables you to edit and add background music. Additionally, the LCD is coated with an anti-reflective layer, making it simple to take photos under strong light.
When buying the Nikon W300, divers can save a lot of money on a console dive computer since this camera is already integrated with eCompass and depth gauge. However, a cheap dive computer is still a worthy investment if you desire to have more advanced functions.
Key Features:
- 5x optical zoom NIKKOR lens
- Telephoto mode
- Hybrid VR image stabilization
- Integrated with GPS, eCompass, depth gauge, and more
- Support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
- 16 MP Backside Illuminated CMOS Sensor
- Macro shooting mode
- A built-in LED light
Pros:
- Suitable for cold divers
- Easy to operate
- The Hybrid VR image stabilization ensures stunning pictures and videos
- Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote control
- Some features such as GPS, eCompass, and depth gauge helps you save money spent for buying a few specific dive tools
- Be able to shoot with one hand and under direct sunlight
- Automatically transfer and back-up photos to your smartphone, laptop, tablet, and more
Cons:
- The quality of pictures when being taken in low-light conditions is sometimes poor
- Not support RAW shooting capability
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Nikon |
| Dimension | 4.4 x 1.2 x 2.6 inches |
| Weight | 8.2 ounces |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max Photo Resolution | 16 MP |
| RAW Format | No |
| White Balance Modes | Auto |
| Maximum Depth Rating | 100 feet (with a housing) |
| Shooting Modes | 19 (Fireworks Show, Landscape, Time-lapse Movie, Snow, Backlighting, Underwater, Portrait, Dusk/Dawn, Night Landscape, Sunset, Beach, Superlapse Movie, Panorama, Party/Indoor, Night Portrait, Multiple Exposure Lighten, Close Up, Food, Sports) |
For more information on the features and functionality of the Nikon COOLPIX W300, check out the following video.
Choosing the Right Underwater Camera for Scuba Diving
There are so many good models to pick on the market now, and one may get overwhelmed. Even with prior knowledge and experience, you might find it difficult to select the most suitable for you.
If you are new to scuba diving, you even might not know what to consider during your buying process. Apart from the competitive price tag, below are some criteria that your ideal underwater camera should have.
1. Size and Weight
The size and weight of scuba cameras profoundly impact how easy to transport them and your maneuverability in the water. Besides, your luggage will be packed with other accessories like dive computers, scuba fins, or masks that keep your dive safe and comfortable.
For that reason, I highly recommend you choose an underwater camera with a compact design. This facilitates storing the gear in a BCD pocket while scuba diving. Moreover, paying extra fees due to excess baggage will no longer worry you if you travel by plane frequently.
2. Ease of Use
To get wonderful underwater adventurers, you will need a lot of supporting gear and also learn how to use it competently. For example, checking the air consumption of a scuba tank and changing your scuba camera’s settings to take excellent photos must be done effortlessly and simultaneously.
Therefore, simple models like action or point-and-shoot cameras will be the best choice for most divers, especially beginners, because of their accessible interface.
However, in case you are a professional underwater photographer, you should own a mirrorless or DSLR camera since those items can offer diverse manual controls.
3. Underwater Housing
Underwater housings are indispensable for any divers who want to dive deep into the blue ocean. Whether your underwater camera is an affordable or premium item, investing in top-quality housings is worth the money.
These protective cases can give your camera a wide range of benefits, such as enhancing durability and improving water pressure resistance. Furthermore, they also equip the gear with various points to attach accessories like dive lights, lens ports, and more.
4. Image/ Video Quality
Underwater pictures or video quality depends much on three elements: sensor, lens selection, and lighting. The larger the camera’s sensor is, the easier it is to get fantastic footage.
Meanwhile, different lenses will give the footage different sharpness, contrast, and distortion. This way, the lenses of famous brands like Canon or Nikon are top choices for underwater photography and videography.
Besides, lighting is another factor to consider when taking photos below the surface. Aquatic environments are often dim, making everything seem only black, and thereby, you will need extra illumination to capture the vibrancy of underwater scenes.
5. Lens Selection
As I said above, a scuba camera’s lens is one of the decisive aspects of image or video quality. The camera’s type you are using will determine its respective lens kind.
For example, cheap underwater cameras like action or point-and-shoot models are usually integrated with their exclusive lens. This means that you cannot switch to a wide-angle or macro lens to capture entire colorful reef scenes like high-end items can do.
Hence, those cost-efficient scuba diving cameras often offer you inferior footage. However, you can still improve this downside by using them with wet lenses.
Types of Cameras
There are four main types: action, compact (or known as Point-and-Shoot), DSLR, and mirrorless cameras. Each kind has its own benefits as well as drawbacks, resulting in the fact that it caters to divers with numerous different experience levels.
If this is the first time you have searched for underwater cameras, I hope this part will give you a lot of useful knowledge to avoid making a wrong purchase.
| Action cameras | Compact cameras/ Point-and-Shoot | Mirrorless cameras | DSLR cameras | |
| Pros | ● Suitable for various diving conditions. ● Come with affordable price tags. ● The best option for entry-level divers. ● Easy to use. | ● The perfect combination among compact size, decent footage, and economical price tag. ● Simple to operate. ● Include a rugged and robust construction. | ● Give excellent image quality, portability, and usability. ● Not as bulky and expensive as DSLR cameras. ● Integrated with interchangeable lenses. ● Offer more features than compact and action cameras. | ● Best choice for professional underwater photographers. ● Offer durable construction. ● Give great battery life ● Effortless to change lenses. ● Include stronger shooting capabilities. |
| Cons | ● Limited waterproof, so you have to use them with a protective case to dive deeper. ● Not recommended for still photography. | ● Lack of advanced functions. ● Offer small sensors, so it is hard to capture photos in low-light situations. | ● Short battery life. ● Need to be used with an underwater housing. ● Not be integrated with plentiful lens ports. | ● Own the most cumbersome design. ● Heaviest. ● Require the highest price point. ● Not ideal for novice underwater photographers. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you have any questions? You can use the comment box below. However, I’ve compiled some frequently asked questions and answered them. I hope the information that they can offer will help you a lot.
What Camera Do Underwater Photographers Use?
Professional photographers often use a high-resolution DSLR or a full-frame mirrorless camera to take pictures with first-rate quality. The models from the Canon brand are the best choices since they are able to meet strict standards for underwater photography.
How Deep Can an Underwater Camera Go?
Scuba divers need to know about the waterproof depth of their underwater cameras to ensure that they are not used beyond their limit. Generally, most items reviewed above can be water-resistant 50 feet without a waterproof case.
In case your underwater camera includes a dedicated case outside, it can go deeper. Some high-end models even enable you to dive up to 200 feet.
Why Are Underwater Housings So Expensive?
Since only 1-2% of scuba divers feel that their underwater cameras need to be used with a housing. It is the low demand that makes the numbers of housing manufacturers in the market limited.
Therefore, underwater housings are exclusively designed as well as not mass-produced. This is the main reason why their prices are usually pushed up.
Is a DSLR or Mirrorless Better for Underwater Photography?
Nowadays, most underwater photographers prefer mirrorless cameras to DSLR ones since they own interchangeable lenses. This allows scuba divers to take photos with different qualities as well as get excellent footage effortlessly.
Is GoPro the Best Underwater Camera?
A GoPro camera is well-known for its economical price tag, compact design, and great ease of use to capture amazing undersea footage. As a result, there is no doubt that it is one of the most popular underwater cameras among the scuba divers community.
Besides, the GoPro cameras can go as deep as 33 feet without a case or up to 196 feet with a GoPro Protective Housing. I think this excellent depth rating gives them high durability when used underwater.
Final Thoughts
I’ve made a lot of emphasis on the amazing benefits of underwater cameras for both their protection and comfort to scuba divers. If you still have no idea of your perfect model, let’s check this section.
I highly recommend the Olympus Tough TG-6 for its intuitive display, high-definition sensor, and excellent waterproof. Besides, it includes sturdy and robust construction; thus, you will not worry it broke suddenly if using the camera in harsh diving environments.
I hope you found this article helpful. Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below. You can also share this article with your friends on various social media platforms by clicking the social buttons below, which gives me lots of motivation to write my next reviews.
