We love our trusty mirrorless cameras, but when heading on a trip or a weekend at the beach, sometimes we need a camera that's a little sturdier — so we can capture our days without worrying about spills and shocks. This is where waterproof compact cameras come in.
We reach for these cameras when we're at our most joyous and perhaps our most reckless, so we need a camera that can survive a dip in the pool, a fall in the snow, or even come with us on snorkelling and scuba diving adventures. Thanks to technological advances and increasingly capable compact cameras, these small rugged cameras will not only provide peace of mind — they'll also capture your adventures with amazing image and video quality. Once you've chosen your camera, check out our tips for taking great underwater photos to make the most of it.
Read on for our selection of the best waterproof cameras to take on your next trip or beachside weekend away.
Last updated: August 2026
Table of contents
- Best tough camera: OM System TG-7
- Best underwater video camera: GoPro Hero 13
- Best budget action camera: Kodak PixPro WPZ2
Best tough camera: OM System TG-7
- 15m waterproof, 2.1m shockproof, dust, crush and freezeproof
- 4K video recording
- 1cm closest focus
- 12MP backlit CMOS sensor
- Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
When looking at what the OM System TG-7 can do, there's no doubt why it has "tough" in its name. The TG-7 is 15 metres waterproof, 2.1 metres shockproof, crushproof to 100kg, and freezeproof to -10°C. With so many fantastic features, it's the ideal travel camera for those who don't know exactly what their next adventure will entail but need the best tough camera to capture it all.
There's been no sacrifice of image quality in designing this sturdy camera. The OM System TG-7 features a backlit CMOS sensor for impressive low-light performance, a versatile 4x optical zoom lens with a fast f/2 aperture, and 4K video recording for high-resolution underwater films.
Shop the OM System TG-7 →
Best underwater video camera: GoPro Hero 13
- 5.3K 60fps video & 2.7K 240fps slow-mo
- Rear touch-sensitive LCD screen and front-facing display
- HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilisation
- Full HD 1080p live-streaming
- 27MP still images
- 10m waterproof
If you're looking for the best underwater video camera, look no further than the GoPro Hero 13. This action camera features an advanced 27MP image sensor and is capable of unbelievable 5.3K video. It's also incredibly user-friendly, with touch-sensitive dual LCD screens — the front screen being perfect for selfie-style shooting and vlogging.
Compact enough to slip into your jacket pocket, the Hero 13 is waterproof to 10m without a separate housing and is suitable for surfing, running, skiing, and more. HyperSmooth 6.0 technology ensures smooth, stable footage even during the most action-packed moments. The GoPro Hero 13 is ready for action when you are.
Shop the GoPro Hero 13 →
Best budget action camera: Kodak PixPro WPZ2
- 1080p HD video
- 16MP CMOS image sensor
- 4x optical zoom lens
- 15m waterproof, 2m shockproof & dustproof
- 2.7-inch LCD screen
The Kodak PixPro line has earned a reputation for great budget-friendly quality. If you'd like to explore the full range, our complete guide to Kodak PixPro cameras covers every model in detail. The Kodak PixPro WPZ2 stands out as the ultimate choice for outdoor adventures and family fun. Built to withstand the elements with a 15m waterproof rating and 2m shockproof rating, it's an ideal companion for capturing crystal-clear photos and 1080p HD video at the pool, beach, or on the ski slopes. Its robust construction also makes it tough enough to entrust to young children for their first foray into photography.
Shop the Kodak PixPro WPZ2 →
Shop waterproof cameras at Ted's
Now that you have a better understanding of what the best rugged and waterproof cameras can do, it's time to choose the best one for you. Not sure if you want to commit to buying? Find out why renting your travel camera gear could be the smarter first move. Shop online now, or head to a Ted's Cameras store to talk to our skilled staff if you need help deciding. If you're shopping for someone else, our guide to the best photography gifts for adventurers has plenty of inspiration.
Best Action Underwater Cameras in 2026
Looking for the best action underwater camera? Whether you're snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, surfing at Bondi, or kayaking in a national park, an action underwater camera needs to be fast, rugged, and ready to shoot in any conditions. The GoPro Hero 13 remains the gold standard for action underwater cameras in 2026, offering class-leading stabilisation and waterproofing to 10m without a housing. For those wanting a compact point-and-shoot style, the OM System TG-7 doubles as a powerful action underwater camera with its 15m waterproofing and rapid burst shooting. Both cameras let you capture spontaneous, high-energy moments underwater without missing a beat.
Best 4K Waterproof Action Cameras for Beach Holidays
A 4K waterproof action camera is the ultimate companion for beach holidays, giving you cinematic video quality that stands up to sand, salt water, and sun. The GoPro Hero 13 is the clear leader here — its 4K/120fps recording and waterproof-by-design body make it ideal for beach holidays, water sports, and everything in between. For travellers who want a 4K action camera waterproof experience in a more traditional compact form, the OM System TG-7 shoots 4K video and fits easily in a boardshorts pocket. Whether you're capturing slow-motion waves or wide-angle reef footage, these 4K waterproof action cameras ensure your beach holiday memories look stunning on any screen.
