The best underwater cameras
Underwater Camera – Buying Guide, Opinions and Comparison in 2022
If you are preparing for a day of fun at the beach and want to capture all the moments in the water, but do not even think about using your digital camera to enter the water, the ideal thing for you is to acquire a digital underwater camera that you can use with your family, like the YinFun YFE-806DYB, which for a fairly attractive price offers video recording in Full HD quality and 16x digital zoom. Another interesting alternative is the Apexcam M80-air, a model specially designed to accompany your sports and adventures, with various mounting kits, as well as 4K resolution for video and 20 MP photo resolution.
Opinions on the best underwater cameras
If you are considering purchasing the best underwater camera on this list, we recommend you look at the positive and negative characteristics of each model. In addition, to choose one of the cheapest models, it is important to know what you will use it for.
aquatic photo camera
YinFun YFE-806DYB
Among the cheapest products in this selection we have the YinFun YFE-806DYB model, which may well be the best underwater camera of the moment if you do not want to invest a lot of money, but want to leave evidence of your vacations and pool parties.
The formats with which it works are: AVI for video and JPEG for photographs. Thanks to this, you can share the photos on your favorite networks, without having to convert them. In addition, its automatic ISO adjustment will allow a better exposure of the photos in light changes, which translates into an intuitive and very simple use.
On the other hand, this YinFun underwater photo camera also incorporates self-timer and microphone functions. Not forgetting to mention that its battery charges in just 3 hours and you don’t have to purchase a case yourself, as is the case with other models. Its resistance to water is due to its waterproof design, which in turn provides greater ergonomics.
Learn more about this cheap but effective camera in our list of pros and cons. Maybe it’s what you need for your next visit to the beach or pool.
Pros
Design: This camera has a compact and sporty design, with well-identified buttons that make it easy to use.
Image quality: It is capable of recording video in Full HD format. In addition, it has a zoom and a 48 MP lens.
Double screen: You will be able to star in your own shots with the best framing, thanks to its front and rear screen.
Cons
Diving depth: Although it is a submersible model, it is not recommended to use it deeper than 3 meters.
Easypix Aquapix 1024
If you still don’t know which underwater camera to buy, we recommend you look at this practical model from the Easypix brand. This equipment incorporates a CMOS sensor that will allow you to take 10-megapixel photographs, in addition to the fact that, thanks to its 8.5 mm f/.8 macro lens from 11 to 18 cm and 4x digital zoom, you will be able to get very interesting photographs.
On the other hand, this underwater photo camera has the possibility of recording video at a size of 640 x 480 pixels at 30 fps. It incorporates a 2.4-inch TFT LCD screen with which you can comfortably view the images.
The dimensions of this camera are 10 x 10 x 7 centimeters and it weighs approximately 190 grams, so you can take it anywhere thanks to the fact that it is completely portable.
Before choosing your next underwater camera, take a close look at the most important pros and cons of each model.
Pros
Zoom : Provides the possibility of enlarging the image up to 4X the original size, so you can get very interesting photos.
Sensor : This model has a 10 megapixel sensor, which will allow you to get good quality images.
Lens : It incorporates a lens with a focal length of 8.5 mm with an f/2.8 diaphragm that provides a wide image range.
Cons
Batteries : The equipment quickly consumes the battery charge, so it tends to last a short time on, forcing you to purchase extra batteries.
aquatic sports camera
Apexcam M80-air
Regardless of whether you are dedicated to diving, surfing, cycling or any other outdoor sport, the versatility of this camera will be its best advantage, since it has a housing compatible with multiple mounts. In addition, your purchase includes various accessories and 2 batteries, so it can accompany you on all your adventures.
The lens of this underwater sports camera is a wide angle type. Therefore, it allows you to capture wider scenes, while, on the other hand, records video in 4K format at 30 frames per second. The quality of the photos is also very good, due to its 20 MP resolution.
Now, as regards its tightness, it is suitable for diving up to 40 meters deep, so you will not have limitations in this regard. And after your excursions are done, you can share your best shots via WiFi or its HDMI port.
When asking which is the best underwater camera, many point to this model. Check out the pros and cons we have prepared.
Pros
Remote control: You can control the taking of photos from a distance of 20 meters, thanks to its Wi-Fi connection and included remote control.
Wide angle: Its lens can capture 170-degree shots, for a more immersive video experience.
Slow motion: Allows you to make recordings with this effect, for a more interesting viewing experience.
Cons
MicroSD card: You must take into account that the purchase does not include a storage card, being necessary that you acquire one separately.
Children’s aquatic camera
Kriogor YT004
Children can also take attractive photos when they have a device designed especially for them at hand. In this context, we can include this Krigor model in our selection of the best underwater cameras of 2022, which is characterized, among other things, by its resistance to water, being suitable for immersions of up to 10 meters with its special housing included.
Another aspect to highlight in this underwater camera for children is its 2-inch screen, a quality that helps you clearly visualize what is going to be photographed. In addition, it has an image quality of 8 MP and a video resolution of 1920 x 1080 p. Due to this, its 32 gigabyte memory will be able to store hundreds of photos.
Another attractive point of this underwater camera for children is its autonomy, since it offers up to 7 hours with a charge of 4 to 5 hours, thanks to its 1200 mAh battery. On the other hand, its design can be chosen in several options, to fit the preferences.
Before the possible purchase, it is best to be well informed of each positive aspect and possible disadvantage in the model of your choice.
Pros
Intuitive use: Buttons, menus and access to functions are easy for little ones to use.
Timer: Children will be able to plan their photos and be part of them thanks to this function.
Dimensions: Its size of 15 x 12.4 x 6.5 cm is ergonomic for children’s hands.
Cons
Language: The interfaces of the camera are in English language, but children will be able to quickly understand the functions.
underwater digital camera
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT30EG-D
If you have had the opportunity to test the quality of Panasonic products, perhaps this underwater digital camera will seem interesting to you, since it has relevant features and a cheap price.
Its design is compact, but easy to handle, due to its size of 10.37 x 1.97 x 5.83 cm. While its weight, only 125 grams, allows you to carry the camera in any pocket without bothering you. Thus, you will be ready to photograph at any time.
It is a robust model that resists drops of up to 1.5 meters and temperatures down to -10 degrees below zero. In addition, it has an image stabilizer, to compensate for the inevitable movement that some people generate during shooting and hand vibrations. So you can always take sharp photos.
On the other hand, it includes various creative touch-ups from the camera itself and video recording in MP4 format. Now, for night photos, it includes the torch-type light mode.
Panasonic has significantly evolved its camera offerings. Therefore, it could be the answer to which is the best brand of underwater cameras. Read more about the DMC-FT30, below.
Pros
OIS Stabilizer: It’s easy to take sharp photos with this image stabilizer setting.
Waterproof: You can take shots at a depth of up to 8 meters underwater.
Onboard Memory: In case your card fills up, you’ll have the option to record directly to its 220MB internal memory.
Cons
Definition: Its lens with a maximum resolution of 16 MP and an optical sensor of 16.6 MP may not meet the expectations of experienced photographers.
Polaroid underwater camera
Polaroid IF045
Polaroid remains a benchmark when it comes to cameras. On this occasion, it presents us with a very versatile model since, in addition to taking good quality outdoor shots, its waterproof casing allows immersions of up to 3 meters.
Regarding its design, the Polaroid underwater camera stands out for its two screens, front and back. This quality will allow you to take photos and record videos with the best framing, even when you are the protagonist in the shots. Plus, it’s a very intuitive and easy-to-use camera, with automatic settings such as smile and face detection to make taking great photos an easy project.
It has a 14MP sensor with an ISO range of 50 to 200, so it offers quite acceptable light capture, even in low-light environments. On the other hand, it has a 4x digital zoom, to provide even more adjustments for your photos.
An amateur camera does not have to be limited. Proof of this is this Polaroid option, which you can take everywhere and whose technology will help you take good photos.
Pros
Smile and face detection: It is easier to capture the precise moment, due to this automatic function.
Double screen: Viewing the shot at all times will be simple, something very useful for taking selfies or videos. This way you avoid being left out of the frame.
Modalities: You can easily change the capture mode from normal to macro with its lateral manual selector.
Cons
Colour: The pink shade may not be the favorite for users who prefer a discreet device.
Guide to buying a waterproof camera
Whenever you have to dive into the depths of the sea and want to take some photos, unless you have a cumbersome and expensive special casing for your equipment, the best thing to do is to have a medium-high quality underwater camera for cover those spectacular moments at the bottom of the water. Faced with so many alternatives that the market offers, we want to help you in your choice with the following guide to buy the best underwater camera.
Shopping guide
Type of underwater chamber
In any comparison of underwater cameras, you should consider what type of camera you are looking for. First, there are the compact underwater cameras, which are the easiest to use. They offer great portability thanks to their compact size and light weight, in addition to being notable for their ease of use, so if you do not have much experience with photography, this is your best option.
On the other hand, there are underwater DSLR cameras, much more expensive models that provide professional results. However, they are much heavier equipment and require more precise parameters, so it is very important to take care of the equipment at all times, especially after use.
Maximum depth to dive
One of the aspects that directly affect the price of underwater cameras is the depth at which it can work properly. To find out how much the model costs, you can look at the maximum diving depth. However, by searching the market well and paying attention to our advice, you can very possibly choose a good and cheap underwater camera.
The depth level tells us how many meters and feet we can dive under the water and take pictures correctly. The mid-range cameras offered on the market allow them to be submerged between approximately 3 and 10 meters below sea level. If you practice any water sports and want this camera for your adventures, it is important that you look carefully at this value.
photographic resolution
As is logical, if you are choosing a digital camera, whatever the model, the resolution will play a leading role in the choice. If you are looking for a camera that gives you an excellent result and a high level of quality in the details of the image, then it is essential that you choose a model with a high resolution. However, this will increase the cost of the camera noticeably. This is why it is very important that you choose the model that best suits your needs.
It is important to know that the photographic resolution determines the maximum size at which you can print the image, guaranteeing high quality if the camera offers more than 12 megapixels. In addition, currently, the mid-range camera has high-quality sensors that offer 24-megapixel photos, among many more.
recording size
In case you are looking for one of these devices due to the possibility they offer of recording your trips to the pool on video, it is highly recommended that you be aware of another of the most important characteristics in this case, the size of the video recording. Nowadays, it is common to come across cameras that record videos with 4K and Ultra HD size, however, if your budget is a bit tight, it is advisable to choose a model that records at Full HD 1920 x 1080 px or 1280 x 720 px.
In addition to the size of the video, speed is another factor worth looking at, since if you want to make slow-motion video recordings, you will need equipment that records video at more than 60 fps. For this reason, it is common for some models to reach higher speeds such as 240 or 320 fps for super slow motion effects.
screens
Last but not least, look carefully at the quality and size of the display screen of the images. As digital cameras, these teams traditionally incorporate a digital screen that allows you to quickly look at the images you have taken, in addition to helping you make a certain frame.
On the other hand, there are models that incorporate a practical front screen that allows you to take selfies and group photos much more easily, since you will not have the need to use a timer and remote tripod. Also remember to be aware of the inches and resolution of the screen, so that you can perfectly observe the images.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to open a water chamber?
This method is used to open most underwater cameras and consists of sliding the lock in the direction indicated by the arrow, while pulling the tab up with the other hand. In this way the lid is completely free to be opened and thus we can insert or remove the aquatic camera. Remember that, although there are models that indicate they are aquatic, they also come with a protective casing to put it in the water to protect it. On the other hand, the market offers a series of disposable underwater cameras, which cannot be opened by users, since the photographs would be “burned”. In this case, it must be taken to a specialized center after having taken the last photographic shot so that a technician can proceed to open it and reveal the images.
Q2: How to fix a waterproof camera?
The best thing to do, in case your underwater camera gets wet inside, is to turn it off immediately and remove the battery. Next, place the device somewhere clean so it can dry out over time. Many users put wet electrical devices in containers of rice, so that this cereal helps to dry the mechanism. In the event that the device still does not turn on after a few days, it is advisable to send it to a technical service that rules out the main circuit burn.
Q3: How to hold the underwater camera?
In order to get impressive shots like the ones we see in magazines, we will need to learn how to hold this camera correctly. To do this, action cameras usually include small bases that allow you to efficiently attach the camera to your helmet or vest, so that you can have both hands free to carry out your maneuvers. Although holding an underwater action camera is done exactly the same as holding a traditional camera, many users choose to use the accessories.
Q4: How to make a waterproof camera case?
There is a simple and inexpensive method to create your own waterproof cover, which will require a large sheet of urethane and an iron, mainly. First, place the iron on medium heat, letting it heat for a few minutes. On a wide, flat surface, lay the sheet of urethane horizontally and fold it sideways, aligning each end. Then run the iron on each side, making sure to join it well with your fingers and line it up. As there is only one side left to join, insert the camera through the opening and proceed to repeat the action by gently passing the iron. In this way, you will have your chamber perfectly vacuum sealed.
Q5: How to remove waterproof camera cover?
To completely remove the cover that you have made for your camera, it will be necessary to use scissors to cut one of the sides of the cover, taking care not to cut too much to avoid losing a lot of material, since later, when you want to close the cover again, you will have to pass the hot iron again, again occupying approximately 5 cm.
Q6: How to avoid humidity in a water chamber?
It is easy for electrical equipment to accumulate moisture when it is not being used, so it is recommended to take the necessary precautions to prevent this from happening. To eliminate the condensation that can form on some electronic objects, the best thing to do is to use a moisture-absorbing product or material, such as Silica-Gel, which consists of small balls of absorbent material that, when Placing them in strategic places can be of great help in keeping our cameras protected from moisture.
Q7: How does a disposable underwater camera work?
Widely used by users looking to take simple and fun photos of their trips to the beach, disposable underwater cameras continue to have practically the same popularity as they did in the beginning. The aquatic cameras, as their name indicates, must be discarded after use, since they are completely useless when uncovering it to remove the original reel, making it impossible to load it again. Its system is exactly the same as that of traditional cameras.
Q8: How deep can a waterproof camera be?
The depth to which a camera can be submerged depends mainly on the model you have purchased, since there are cheap and mid-range submersible action cameras that allow the equipment to be submerged from 1 to 15 meters. However, there are models that support depths of approximately 20 and 30 meters below sea level and that also fall within an acceptable price range. This is important to define, according to your needs and the use you are going to give it. Items like the Campark ACT74 underwater camera offer a maximum depth of 30 meters below sea level at a very affordable price.
How to use an underwater camera
The aquatic cameras provide us with long hours of entertainment when we go to the beach or the pool, so it is an accessory that should not be missing on our walks. Although it may seem that the operation of all underwater cameras is simple, it is best to take the precaution of looking at the manual of the camera, so that you can know the function and location of each button. In addition, this way you can avoid any misuse that you can give to your camera. That is why we have decided to help you with the use of your underwater camera, creating this small guide on how to use an underwater camera.
open the package
First of all, proceed to open the packaging of your camera and place all the parts and accessories on a previously clean and clear surface to perform this task. In this way you will avoid losing any part that is necessary for the operation of your camera. This is the right time to get to know your camera and, with the help of your instructions, you will be able to learn how each button works.
charge the battery
If your underwater camera uses rechargeable batteries, you’ll need to make sure you keep them charged at all times, so you can use your camera during the important times of the day. Most models have a charger that you can take on your trips and many users recommend purchasing a second battery, so that while you recharge one they have the other running. Remember to connect the batteries all night to be able to enjoy a day of photos in the water.
First configurations
The first thing you’re likely to see when you turn on the camera is a date and time settings screen. In addition, you will have to configure the resolution at which you want to take your photos, as well as the size and frame rate in which you want to record your videos. Remember that if you want to take shots that can be seen on a lens camera, you must choose more than 60 frames per second to be able to slow down in post-production, in addition, depending on the type of camera you have, you can record in HD, Full HD and Ultra HD format. Another factor that you should not forget to adjust on your camera for video is the white balance and exposure index. Once you have finished these initial settings, you will be ready to start taking photos.
Enter a matching card
Next, you must insert a storage card that allows you to save the images you take with your camera. It is important to keep in mind that the larger the video or the higher the resolution at which you take the photo, the file size will be much larger. Therefore, you should consider how much you like to record and photograph to choose a certain capacity.
Clean and store the camera
Finally, it is highly recommended that, when you stop using your underwater camera, you remove the batteries, since they continue to discharge even when the device is turned off, in addition, we recommend you wipe with a dry cloth with which you can remove all traces of dust and proceed to store it carefully in a dry and protected place, so that you can guarantee its functionality and a long useful life.
