Best Waterproof Cameras for Taking Pictures Underwater

Review & Comparison, Last Update August 4, 2024
If you adore scuba diving or snorkeling and wish to make amazing underwater photos, there's a great device for you! Choose one of the best waterproof cameras from our review and turn your diving experience into an exciting adventure with memorable shots to look through afterward. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Protection
Optical Sensor
Display
Zoom
Video
Connectivity
Power
Extras
Warranty
 
PROS

W300 comes equipped with a 16-MP backside illuminated CMOS low-light sensor with a Macro Mode function that when turned on will help you portray even the most inconspicuous details in flowers, plants, insects and more.

CONS

The display is sometimes uncomfortable to operate during the sunny days.

OUR VERDICT

The camera is a great choice for any individual that doesn't shy away from the dangerous situations and rough environments and wants a model that will be able to keep up with him.

detailed parameters
Protection

Waterproof - 100 ft, Shockproof - 7.9 ft, Freezeproof - 14°F, Dustproof

Optical Sensor

16 MP BSI CMOS 1/2.3"

Display

3" LCD

Zoom

5x Optical zoom, 4x Digital zoom

Video

4K UHD 3840x2160 / 30p

Connectivity

USB, HDMI Type D, SD/SDHC/SDXC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Power

Li-ion Battery EN-EL12

Extras

GPS, Compass, Barometer, Depthometer, Altimeter, Separate button for video

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The model features a 12MP high-speed image sensor for improved low light performance and noise reduction. It is also capable of shooting in 4K and Full HD 120 fps high-speed videos for those moments where 30 or 60 frames per second just wouldn't be enough.

CONS

Some customers may find the screen's resolution to be a bit low.

OUR VERDICT

Thanks to the incredibly reliable built-in action track sensors that allow you to record your movements and environmental data and an impeccable quality of the sensor, this camera is a solid choice for anyone looking for a perfect balance of usability and quality.

detailed parameters
Protection

Waterproof - 50 ft, Shockproof - 7 ft, Freezeproof - 14°F, Dustproof

Optical Sensor

12 MP BSI CMOS 1/2.3"

Display

3" LCD

Zoom

4x Optical zoom, 4x Digital zoom

Video

4K UHD 3840x2160 / 30p

Connectivity

Multi-terminal (USB Connector, DC Jack, Audio/Video Output), HDMI Type D, SD/SDHC/SDXC, Eye-Fi, Wi-Fi

Power

Li-ion Battery LI-92B

Extras

Manometer, Compass, GPS, Separate button for video

Warranty

1 year

PROS
Unique features of this gadget include the remote shooting and instant photo transfer to your smartphone. The back lid has an extra double-lock mechanism for the extra safety.
CONS
You may need some time to get used to the Fuji menu.
OUR VERDICT
Fujifilm offers you a worthy waterproof camera featuring remarkable protection against external impacts, simple operation modes, top quality photos, and videos. Enthusiasts of active leisure will also appreciate various original accessories that come in a set!
detailed parameters
Protection
Waterproof - 50 ft, Shockproof - 5.8 ft, Freezeproof - 14°F, Dustproof
Optical Sensor
16.4 MP BSI CMOS 1/2.3
Display

2.7" LCD

Zoom

5x Optical zoom, 2x Digital zoom

Video
1080p
Connectivity
USB, HDMI Type D, Video Output, SD/SDHC/SDXC, Wi-Fi
Power
Li-ion Battery NP-45S, 210 shots
Extras
Remote shooting, Wide-angle shooting if used as an action camera
Warranty
1 year
PROS

The Target Finding Autofocus technology automatically spots the intended subject within the frame. The Underwater Face Framing function looks for faces and takes a picture the moment it identifies one. The Scene Auto Selector feature helps the camera figure out the kind of picture you're looking to take and set an appropriate mode without involving the user.

CONS

The shutter speed is a bit on the slow side. 

OUR VERDICT

The Nikon W100 will prove to be a perfect choice for the technophile crowd and the extreme photography enthusiasts. With the help of the camera's cutting-edge shooting features, you will be able to take high-quality shots and shoot awesome films regardless of the surrounding environment.

detailed parameters
Protection

Waterproof - 33 ft, Shockproof -5.9 ft, Freezeproof - 14°F, Dustproof

Optical Sensor

13.2 MP CMOS 1/3.1"

Display

2.7" LCD

Zoom

3x Optical zoom, 4x Digital zoom

Video

Full HD: 1920x1080 / 30p

Connectivity

USB, HDMI Type D, SD/SDHC/SDXC, Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth

Power

Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL19 (700 mAh)

Extras

VR image stabilization, Motion detection, Scene auto selector, Target Finding AF, Compatible with SnapBridge App (Android 5.0 or later, iOS 8.4 or later)

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The model comes equipped with 10 fps high-speed continuous shooting feature. Simply choose either the Cinemograph Mode or the Interval Shooting Mode and enjoy a number of high-quality still images of a moving element. The optical (Sensor-Shift) image stabilization counteracts the camera shake and allows the device to produce sharp images and clear footage.

CONS

The "record" button is right next to the "ON/OFF" button.

OUR VERDICT

The rugged camera from Fujifilm XP120 is one of the most interesting options in its price range. Despite the fact that it costs just a tad above a hundred bucks, the model boasts truly impressive specs and all the features and protection elements you need to shoot footage and take pictures anywhere you want.

detailed parameters
Protection

Waterproof - 65 ft, Shockproof - 5.8 ft, Freezeproof - 14°F, Dustproof

Optical Sensor

16.4 MP CMOS 1/2.3"

Display

3" LCD

Zoom

5x Optical zoom, 2x Digital zoom

Video

Full HD: 1920x1080 / 60p

Connectivity

USB, HDMI Type D, SD/SDHC/SDXC, Wi-Fi

Power

Li-ion battery NP-45S (740 mAh)

Extras

Geotagging, Optical (Sensor-Shift) image stabilization, Auto scene recognition, Burst mode button, Compatible with Fujifilm Apps

Warranty

1 year

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Nikon COOLPIX W300

Nikon is Always There for You

Although people in the middle of the 19th century when the first camera was just being invented and introduced to the public probably wouldn't even dare to dream it, in the modern world most people own at least one capturing device and virtually everybody used one of them a few times in their lifetime. But just because a camera or any other device that has the similar features is a handy tool for a variety of possible scenarios that individuals may or may not encounter some time in their life, that doesn't mean that everybody is a huge fan of the process of filming videos and shooting photos or the outcome of being in a motion picture or becoming part of an image.

Some people love it though and it is hard to blame them for that. Shooting a video or a series of photos is not only a fun activity that you can enjoy regardless of your company or lack thereof, but it is also an art form that requires a tremendous amount of technique and the skill ceiling is virtually nonexistent when it comes to it. People shooting photos or videos have to consider the background and the foreground, the proximity of the desired object or subject to their camera, whether the framing is straight enough and the last but not least is the aspect of lighting which is a separate art form in itself. Naturally, not everything comes down to the skill of the user and a lot depends on the quality of your camera. And if the quality is what you're looking for, Nikon is always there for you when it comes to optics and imaging products, with their new W300 waterproof model upholding the companies' standards of delivering top-notch cameras to their loyal customers.

Review of Nikon COOLPIX W300 Waterproof Underwater Digital Camera

Reveal What is Hidden

When it comes to a camera, one of the first things people pay attention to is rightfully the quality of the video that said camera is capable of shooting, generally manifesting in the highest possible resolution that the device supports. And since the model in question is Nikon, it comes as no surprise that the model is capable of shooting in 4K Ultra HD or 1080p Full HD videos with stereo sound. Thanks to the Short Movie Show feature, you'll be capable of combining your favorite clips into 30-second compilations and providing some background music and special effects with just a few clicks and no effort required. The W300 is equipped with a 16-MP backside illuminated CMOS low-light sensor with a Macro Mode function that when turned on will help you portray even the most inconspicuous details in flowers, plants, insects and more. It also comes with their own NIKKOR lens capable of 5x optical zoom and equipped with a hybrid vibration reduction feature that will keep your photos and videos steady, even when the path ahead gets bumpy.

Nikon COOLPIX W300 Waterproof Underwater Digital Camera in the use

Simply Indestructible

Naturally, since the model in question is advertised as a waterproof underwater digital camera, you would expect it to hold up even in the most extreme conditions. And your expectations would not be misguided since the W300 is capable of handling anything that you throw its way. The camera is waterproof down to 100 ft so you can take it with you on your snorkeling or scuba diving sessions or if you just simply wish to shoot in a pool. The model is freezeproof of up to 14°F, so skiing, snowboarding, sledging or any other exciting winter activity is an option that is available to you. Last but not least, the camera is also shockproof and dustproof, meaning you can take with you on you dirt biking or just down to the beach and you won't have to worry about what happens if you drop it or if some sand or dirt gets in the way. The camera is incredibly easy to control with a large 3.0-inch LCD screen and a dedicated Tool button gives you quick access to GPS, eCompass and other features. Some people may find the model to be a bit pricey, but with the kind of quality and resistances it provides, the Nikon W300 is worth every penny of that price tag.

Detailed review of Nikon COOLPIX W300 Waterproof Underwater Digital Camera

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $389.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B071ZMDBKL

What customers say about this product

Imaging

Easy to use! I literally pointed and shot. I liked the latitude of ISO which allows decent Low light shots. And video worked well too.

Protection

Being shockproof is a HUGE plus, since I have dropped my current camera and beat the crap out of it, and when I dropped my previous Nikon, which I ADORED, I broke the viewing screen.

Connectivity

The W300 has lots of new Wifi/Blutooth and GPS stuff and a number of scenes

Display

The picture and video captured by this camera are just outstanding, and the LCD display is really fantastic.

Size & Weight

It's size and durability, insure that I'll always have it ready, when I'm in the water. It's simple to use, and can take a beating.

Power

Surprise feature: Direct micro USB charging! No proprietary wires to lose or wall plug thingy's, and you can recharge on the go using standard cell phone battery banks. Bravo!
 

Olympus TG-5

What is Your Precious Moment?

The idea of celebrating and immortalizing precious moments in life through capturing them with a camera isn't an entirely new concept. People have been doing that ever since the invention of the first camera and some even argue that this idea was one of the main driving forces behind the previously mentioned invention. But everyone has a different definition of a precious moment and thus every individual's precious moment could differ entirely from someone else's.

Some people consider their most precious moments to be the ones coinciding their most impressive achievements, be it the moment they graduated college or university, the time they won some kind of a trophy or that brief time period when they finally managed to achieve a certain level of success in their professional life. Others consider the most precious moments in their life to be the time spend with their family and loved ones, whether it is Thanksgiving or Christmas where everyone gets together in order to celebrate or a birth of their child welcoming a new page in their life. Some people's precious moments are the ones where they feel the most alive and are able to appreciate every second they spend on this Earth during that brief period of time. It may involve the time they told their significant other they loved them for the first time or the time they spent parachuting or scuba diving feeling the kind of adrenaline rush that makes your heart beat faster than ever before. Regardless of what type of person you are, the Olympus TG-5 Waterproof Camera will be able to accommodate your needs.

Review of Olympus TG-5 Waterproof Camera

The Environment Doesn't Matter

Although Olympus TG-5 is the kind of camera that will be able to satisfy virtually any customer regardless of their lifestyle and preferred way of spending their pastime, the camera is an absolute steal for anyone that doesn't like to sit still and likes to put himself in the situations that not everybody would necessarily describe as safe and harmless. If you're the type that likes to explore coral reefs or any other form of marine life and would like to shoot some videos while you do so, the camera features a protection against water of down to 50 ft. If mountain biking is your thing and you can't wait for the weekend to come so you can spend some time riding over rough terrains, the model has you covered with a protection against being dropped from over 7 ft and a crushproof structure capable of withstanding up to 220 pounds of force. Of course, being dropped or crushed is not the only potential danger a camera can face in this kind of environment, which is why this model also features a solid protection against dirt and dust.

Olympus TG-5 Waterproof Camera in the use

120 Frames of Passion

Now, protection is great and important when it comes to this type of model, but this is a camera after all and a camera ought to be capable of shooting a quality image. People behind Olympus TG-5 are more than aware of that which is why this device comes equipped with a new 12MP high-speed image sensor for improved low light performance and noise reduction. And since we're talking about a premier camera in the current year, the model is also capable of capturing your adventures in vivid Ultra HD so you can watch your mountain trip, coral reef dive or a desert hike in a spectacular lifelike resolution. The camera also features Full HD 120 fps high-speed video for those moments where 30 or 60 frames per second just wouldn't be enough. Last but not least, the device also comes with built-in Action Track Sensors so you can record your movements and environmental data. You’ll find a GPS for latitude and longitude, a compass for direction, a temperature sensor, and a manometer for altitude and water depth. So no matter where you like to spend your free time, the camera will always be ready to accommodate your needs regardless of the environment you put it in.

Detailed review of Olympus TG-5 Waterproof Camera

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $339.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B071RSJGXZ

What customers say about this product

Imaging

You can choose digital zoom to magnify zoom by factors of 1X, 2X or 4X. (obviously image quality degrades at these high settings)

Connectivity

Camera makes it's own wifi (can use phone to control shutter, etc)

Display

The rather generously sized three inch monitor screen has a menu with forty-one display items though fortunately not all visible at the same time.

Power

Love not replacing batteries, just plug in at end of day.

Protection

Waterproof; shockproof; freezeproof and on and on

Size & Weight

It is compact. I have to do a lot of one handed shooting and the quick to grab and eade of sticking it in a pocket aspect of this camera is super
 

Fujifilm FinePix XP80

Ultimate Protection

The Japanese have a long-term experience in the production of amateur and professional photo equipment and accessories. Fujifilm is one of the world-known leaders in this sphere. This review is about Fujifilm FinePix XP80 which may become your good companion for a vacation or an extreme adventure. The active adventurers will appraise the usefulness of this Fujifilm camera under the toughest conditions. The FinePix XP80 device features the IP68 security grade meaning it is 4-way proof: it withstands sand and dust, is waterproof up to 50 feet and can be dropped from the 6-feet height safely. You can confidently take it for snorkeling or scuba diving and make high-quality pictures of the sea creatures. It works in the 14° F frost allowing you to shoot cool photos while skiing or snowboarding. The double-lock mechanism of the battery compartment prevents the cover from incidental opening. Heat or frost, sea or hard soil, you will always be able to record and save the best memories with this Fujifilm camera.

Review of Fujifilm FinePix XP80 Waterproof Digital Camera

Shooting Quality and Modes

The CMOS sensor size making 1/2.3 inches with the optical resolution of 16.4 MP allows you to shoot photos with the top quality in every detail and minimum noise. The Fujifilm waterproof camera boasts a continuous shooting mode with the speed of up to 10 pictures per second or ultra-high-speed of 60 photos. The modes can be activated by the special Burst Mode Button. A wide choice of other shooting modes includes almost all possible scenes and events. You will definitely find something suitable for your particular situation: whether you are in the mountains, desert or underwater. Impressive, Fujifilm guarantees you clear and vivid colors even in the underwater shooting modes with the macro zoom. The camera shoots video with 1080p resolution that can be watched on any large HD TV-screen. You will be able to invite your friends to watch a real movie of your own adventures. If you wish to record the same objects at a certain interval for time-lapse scenes like urban life or sunset, use an Interval Shooting Mode. You can select 10 minutes, 5 minutes, 60 seconds, 30 seconds or 15 seconds intervals. Thus, you can easily make a bright movie featuring the sun going down or a flower opening!

Fujifilm FinePix XP80 Waterproof Digital Camera in the use

Special Features

As for the extras, this Fujifilm FinePix camera has a standard jack for charging, USB- and HDMI-ports for file transfer and connection to PC or TV. We should also mention the available Wi-Fi allowing you to transfer files to smart gadgets. Having Fuji Remote Camera app installed on your smartphone or tablet, you will be able to control the camera right from your digital gadgets, which is a convenient feature for selfies and group shots. The power supply is the Li-ion battery NP-45S charged from the mains and sufficient for up to 210 photos. You can also use the FinePix XP80 as an Action Camera to record and broadcast your extreme adventures or sporting events. Note that this camera is available in different bright colors!

Detailed review of Fujifilm FinePix XP80 Waterproof Digital Camera
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00S4KXH3K

VIDEO
Fuji XP80 Underwater Shockproof Digital Camera Unboxing & Initial Impressions (Finepix XP80)

What customers say about this product

Imaging

Surprisingly good picture quality and mode choices. In the P shooting mode, you can select ISO, image size, image quality, white balance, face detection, plus and minus exposure, and other options.

Connectivity

Great connectivity options.

Size & Weight

It's so light weight that it goes everywhere.

Power

Charging through the camera works fine, and battery life has been good.

Display

Nice size of camera and screen.

Protection

The waterproof feature works great and I had no problems with the camera leaking.
 

Nikon W100 (Blue)

A Few Good Features

The Nikon W100 is the kind of waterproof camera that is mostly defined by all of the extra features implemented by the Japanese optics manufacturers. All of these extra features may not provide enough to make the camera in question one of the best options on the market but they certainly add enough value to attract the technophile crowd and the extreme photography enthusiasts.

For starters, we would like to direct your attention towards the Nikon's very own Target Finding Autofocus technology that does a pretty remarkable job of automatically locating the intended subject within the frame. That said, snapping pictures underwater can be one hell of a task but not with the help of the Underwater Face Framing function. When activated, the feature looks for faces and takes a picture the moment it identifies one. And since this is a Nikon camera, the folks behind it didn't forget to include the Scene Auto Selector. In case it doesn't ring any bells with you, the said function helps the camera figure out exactly what kind of picture you're looking to take and set an appropriate mode without involving the user in this tedious process.

Review of Nikon W100 (Blue) Waterproof camera

Sharp Shots

A waterproof camera is synonymous with extreme sports and some of the most exhilarating outdoor activities, which is why no good camera like that would be complete without the Motion Detection technology. Simply put, the technology helps the user snap sharper images by automatically selecting a faster shutter speed and higher ISO (light sensitivity) setting. The idea behind it is to compensate for subject movement or camera shake. With this technology in your arsenal, you won't have to worry about choosing the right camera setting and simply enjoy the freedom of taking great pics whenever you want them and however you want them.

And if that doesn't sound sufficient enough for you, the underwater camera also offers the VR image stabilization technology that works in conjunction with Motion Detection by detecting horizontal and vertical movement and offsetting that movement with compensating motion. As a result, you'll get sharper shots and you won't even have to rely on a tripod or flash for help.

Nikon W100 (Blue) Waterproof camera in the use

SnapBridge Compatible

Aside from all of these features, what we have here is a relatively standard waterproof camera. A sensor will ensure a sufficient amount of image clarity. With the help of this sensor, you will be able to shoot videos in Full HD at 30 frames per second. The camera is compatible with a SnapBridge app, so you'll also have the opportunity to automatically transfer images to your smart device for easy sharing and storage.

To sum it up, the Nikon W100 will prove to be a perfect choice for the technophile crowd and the extreme photography enthusiasts. With the help of the camera's cutting-edge shooting features, you will be able to take high-quality shots and shoot awesome films regardless of the surrounding environment.

Detailed review of Nikon W100 (Blue) Waterproof camera

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $138.60
Stock In stock
ASIN B01N1YNVMH

 

Fujifilm FinePix XP120

Surprisingly Good

There are a few things about the Fujifilm XP120 that make this camera such an interesting and attractive option for different types of customers. But we would like to start with the price. Mostly because the camera costs a smidge above a hundred bucks and given all that it offers in return, that kind of price tag is surprisingly modest. Generally speaking, you'd be naive to expect anything other than passable specs and run-of-the-mill features from this kind of budget option but that isn't even remotely the case here.

Starting with the specs, the waterproof camera from Fujifilm will allow you to snap pictures and shoot videos in the 1920x1080 Full HD resolution, which isn't too shabby in and of itself for this kind of price range. But, on top of that, it also offers you the option to shoot in 60 fps, meaning that you will be able to record the kind of smooth footage that will do a far better job of depicting your undeniably awesome adventures.

Review of Fujifilm FinePix XP120 Shock & Waterproof Wi-Fi Digital Camera

High-Speed Shooting

Of course, all of that is possible thanks to the optical sensor. Or, in this case, a 16.4 MP CMOS 1/2.3" sensor that offers remarkable clarity even in the most low-light environment. By the way, you don't always have to choose between taking a photo or shooting a video as the model offers you the perfect middle ground with its 10 fps high-speed continuous shooting feature. Simply choose either the Cinemograph Mode or the Interval Shooting Mode and enjoy a number of high-quality still images of a moving element.

Furthermore, not dissimilar to some of the more expensive Nikon cameras, the model comes equipped with the automatic scene recognition feature that allows the user to focus on the shooting aspect and leave it up to the camera to choose the right setting. It also doesn't forego the familiar Geotagging feature as well as the optical (Sensor-Shift) image stabilization that successfully counteracts the camera shake and allows the device to produce sharp images and clear footage.

Fujifilm FinePix XP120 Shock & Waterproof Wi-Fi Digital Camera in the use

Protection Up the Wazoo

Having said all of that, we're not dealing with a regular camera here but a waterproof one and that means we wouldn't be able to complete the review without at least briefly mentioning the model's protective properties. And, again, sticking with the same approach, the kind of protective feature that the camera boasts have no business being attached to such a modestly priced camera. The device is waterproof up to 65 feet (20 meters), it doesn't care about dust, you can drop it from up to 6 feet without ruining the exterior or damaging its circuits, and it will be able to survive the frost as long as it doesn't drop below the 14 degrees Fahrenheit mark.

To rephrase our earlier point, the Fujifilm XP120 is a really attractive option and arguably the most interesting waterproof camera with good zoom in its price range. Despite the fact that it costs just a tad above a hundred bucks, the model boasts truly impressive specs and all the features and protection elements you need to shoot footage and take pictures anywhere you want.

Detailed review of Fujifilm FinePix XP120 Shock & Waterproof Wi-Fi Digital Camera

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $399.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07BMYRHRF

What customers say about this product

Protection

Camera allows me to go fishing or kayaking or camping and take magazine quality pictures without worry since the camera is waterproof.

Display

A large screen that contains many functions. Very easy to use.

Connectivity

It was easy to download the photos to my phone too by downloading an app. Would recommend.

Imaging

Continuous shots let me choose the best from burst shooting. Great feature to make your life easier.

Size & Weight

I liked the camera as it's waterproof, shockproof, compact enough and decent internal memory capacity. Would certainly recommend it.

Power

The battery/memory card door seems very well constructed and the camera reminds you to close it tight when you turn it on.
 

Infographics

Comparison of Waterproof Cameras for Taking Pictures Underwater

What Is a Waterproof Camera?

Everybody likes holidays. You can visit beautiful places and see amazing things, some of which are worth recording and keeping in your album. It may be a nice landscape, an underwater scene or snow-covered mountains. Though, you may be reluctant to take an expensive camera or smartphone to places where they could be easily damaged. Yet if you want to save your vacation memories, you should get a waterproof camera resistant to hits and falls, sand, and dust. Such a camera will easily shoot photos of deep-sea inhabitants or your water-sports’ buddies and survive if you drop it on some rock or into the mud. We have chosen the most popular devices of this kind, so you are welcome to choose the right one for your needs and record the brightest moments of your life.

If you are fond of outdoor activities, you may also like our review of action cameras.

Those fond of portrait photography should check our shortlist of the best cameras for portraits.

Best Waterproof Cameras

What Features to Compare

Extreme Capabilities

The first thing to consider when choosing a waterproof camera is the intended scope of application. All such cameras are rated differently and so, may suit or not different purposes. For example, if all you need is to record your child swimming in a pool and maybe occasionally take pictures in the rain, you wouldn’t need the highest water protection. However, if you’d like to dive with the cam and take underwater photos, the protection should be high enough to withstand immersion up to 30 feet. For ski activities, the camera should also be freezeproof. The other properties to look for are shockproof and crushproof rates. If the camera is highly secured from external impact, it can be used in any extreme conditions fearlessly and still provide smooth operation and functioning.

Picture Quality

Most of us use a waterproof camera as a backup option when using a professional-grade cam in extreme conditions isn’t possible and therefore, the picture quality isn’t expected to be the best. But not anymore. The most advanced devices boast a high picture resolution, good sensor size, zoom, and lenses. The number of pixels is commonly pretty much average, making 8 megapixels, but more than enough to view pics on a big screen in a good quality. Consider the sensor size, the bigger the better. The optimal sensor size for most users is about 1/2.3” delivering pictures with a higher contrast and brighter colors. Any camera should allow zooming in and out, so you should consider the focal length as well. Or you can get additional digital zooms and make shots at a higher magnification. As a rule, waterproof cameras are configured to minimize manual settings and so, offer plenty of already pre-set modes.

Extras

Besides protection rates, these cameras can provide some extra features to enhance user's experience. Some of them can have a built-in GPS to let users track their location on a global map and record the routes. Some models support Wi-Fi for instant image sharing on the Internet. Users who do a lot of active sports would appreciate having a cam that is easy to manipulate on the go by clasping or tilting it with one hand. Compatibility with other accessories can greatly expand the functionality of the camera and further picture processing for different needs.

FAQ:

Q: What’s the difference between underwater and conventional cameras?
A: The major difference can be guessed from the very name. Unlike conventional photo capturing devices, waterproof cams can be used underwater. There is no need to use a waterproof case. Just immerse it in the water and take pictures.

Q: How deep underwater can these cameras be used?
A: It depends on the model you choose. Some devices can be used down to 30-50 feet, whereas others can take pictures at a depth of 100 feet. Therefore, you can use this camera for many purposes: from capturing the mesmerizing photos of the fish on the coral reef to taking pictures of your family swimming in the pool.

Q: Are they good in terms of image quality?
A: Most of them have CMOS optical sensors which provide a really good image quality. Similar sensors are used in professional-grade DSLRs as well. Many models have an optical stabilization for dust- and blur-free photos.

Q: Is there an optical zoom?
A: Yes, these devices provide both optical and digital zoom. Just like a conventional camera.

Q: Can waterproof cameras shoot videos?
A: Yes. As usual, they can shoot Full HD 1080p videos. Some models even provide a time-lapse function, so you can capture the beauty of the moving sun or clouds, for example.

Q: Are these cameras shock-proof?
A: Yes, the majority have a fairly durable shock-proof casing that withstands falls from a small height (as usual, around 5-7 feet). Also, such cameras are also dustproof.

Q: Are there any features for tourists in waterproof cameras?
A: Yes, a lot. The best of them are equipped with many handy functions. For example, a GPS adapter allows you to check your whereabouts and put a location tag on each photograph. Some models have an altimeter to show you at what altitude you are, a compass to find the right direction, and a depth gauge to tell you how deep underwater you dive.

Q: What kind of batteries do these devices need? Can I replace them?
A: As usual, they have a Lithium-ion battery specific to each manufacturer. Therefore, the batteries can’t be interchanged. Needless to mention, you can’t use conventional batteries (AA, AAA, etc.).

Q: Do such cameras have wireless connectivity?
A: It depends on the model you choose. Many of them have a built-in Wi-Fi that allows an instantaneous transfer of images and videos to a computer, laptop, or any other Wi-Fi-enabled device. Also, if a camera has Wi-Fi, you can send your best shots to a wireless printer and have them printed in no time.

Q: What memory card type do I need for a waterproof camera? Is it included in the package?
A: In most cases, a memory card should be purchased separately. As for the type, these devices require SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. They are quite affordable and available in any department or online store.

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