The Best Waterproof Cameras in 2024
We love our trusty DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, but when going on a trip or weekend at the beach, sometimes we need a camera that’s a little sturdier so we can go about capturing our days without worrying about the potential spills and shocks. This is where waterproof compact cameras come in.
We reach for these cameras when we are 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 our snorkelling or scuba diving adventures. Thanks to the technological advances and increasingly capable compact cameras on the market, these small rugged cameras will not only provide peace of mind, they will also capture your adventures with amazing image and video quality.
Read on for our selection of the best waterproof cameras to take with you on your next trip or beachside weekend away.
The best tough camera: The OM System TG7
- 15M waterproof, 2.1M shockproof, dust, crush and freeze-proof
- 4K resolution Video recording
- 1cm closest focus
- 12MP backlit CMOS sensor
- Built-in WiFi connectivity
When looking at what the OM Systems 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 degrees. 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 hasn't been a sacrifice of image quality when designing this sturdy camera, making it a great camera for still photography both in and out of the water. The OM System TG-7 features a back-lit CMOS sensor for impressive low-light image quality, as well as a versatile 4x optical zoom lens with a fast f2 aperture. What’s more, it is capable of 4K resolution video recording so you can take high-resolution underwater films.
2. The best budget underwater camera: Panasonic Lumix FT30
- Image Stabiliser to reduce camera shake
- 720P HD Movie
- 25mm wide angle lens - for landscapes and group shots
- 8M Waterproof, 1.5M Shockproof, Freeze & Dustproof
- 4X optical zoom
Rugged and reliable, the Panasonic Lumix FT30 provides all the tough features of more advanced underwater cameras at an affordable price. The FT30 is waterproof to 8 metres, making it a great camera for those that are particularly comfortable in the water. It is also 1.5m shockproof, freezeproof to -10C, and dustproof so you can go about your adventures worry-free. The FT30 is actually perfect for a night on the town, a day at the beach, or a hiking and skiing trip.
Capture beautiful underwater shots in 16MP and record videos in 4K resolution. The versatile 4x optical zoom opens up a range of possibilities as you can not only frame landscapes and scenery shots but also zoom in to capture interesting ocean life when you are underwater. It’s hard to believe that all of these amazing features come at such a budget-friendly price!
3. The best underwater camera for kids: The Nikon Coolpix W150
- Full HD Video
- 13.2MP CMOS Sensor
- 3x optical zoom lens
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
- 10M waterproof and 1.8M Shockproof
Are you looking for a waterproof camera that the whole family can enjoy? The Nikon Coolpix W150 fits the bill perfectly. With its rugged features, budget-friendly price and ease of use, this great kids underwater camera takes good quality photos with minimal effort, while being sturdy enough to handle the inevitable spills and shocks that will occur when being handled by small hands.
This great waterproof point-and-shoot is shockproof to 1.8M, waterproof to 10M, dust-proof and cold resistant. Thanks to the 13.2MP CMOS sensor and 3x optical zoom lens, you’ll be pleased by the image quality of this compact and lightweight camera, while video capture is available in Full HD.
The best underwater camera for scuba diving: The Ricoh WG-6
- 20M Waterproof, 2.1M Shockproof, freeze, crush and dust-proof
- 4K Video
- Movie SR+ Shake Reduction
- 5x Optical Zoom lens
- 20MP CMOS Sensor
Being waterproof to an amazing 20 metres, the Ricoh WG-6 is the best underwater camera for scuba diving on our list. It is up for the harshest conditions and the most strenuous challenges, also being 2.1 metres shockproof, dust and freezeproof. Whether you surf, dive or sail, the Ricoh WG-6 is one of the best rugged cameras to capture excellent images and stunning 4K videos, worry-free.
As can be expected of a Ricoh digital camera, the WG-6 delivers excellent image and video quality in all shooting conditions, thanks to its 20MP image sensor and Movie SR+ Shake Reduction mode, and resulting gimbal-like stabilisation. A built-in LED lighting system is available, perfect for illuminating close-ups as well as underwater shots and videos.
The best underwater video camera: The GoPro Hero 12
- 5.3K 60FPS Video & 2.7K 240FPS Slow-Mo Videos
- 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 12. It is similar in appearance to the previous hero models but this new action camera has a host of new features that make it a worthy upgrade, or an exciting entry-point. This model features an advanced 237MP image sensor for impressive shots and is capable of unbelievable 5.3K videos. It’s also made incredibly user-friendly for an action camera with touch-sensitive dual LCD screens, the front screen being perfect for selfie-style shooting and vlogging.
It’s the perfect camera to take with you on your adventures as it’s compact enough to slip into your jacket pocket while not in use. Suitable for surfing, running, skiing, and more, the stabilised Hero 12 is waterproof to 10m without a separate housing. This video camera's HyperSmooth 6.0 technology is included, which assures smooth and stable footage, even during the more action-packed moments. The GoPro Hero 12 is ready for action when you are.
Shop Waterproof Cameras at Ted's
Choose the best underwater camera for your next adventure
Now that you have a better understanding of what the best rugged and waterproof cameras out there can do, it’s time to choose the best one for you!
Shop online now, or head to a Ted’s camera store to talk to our skilled staff if you need some more help to decide.
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