Can I Use an Action Camera Underwater?

25 minutes read

Yes, you can use an action camera underwater, but it depends on the model and its waterproof capabilities. Many action cameras are designed with waterproof features, allowing them to be used underwater to a certain depth without any additional housing. Popular models from brands like GoPro often offer this feature, with specific models being waterproof down to depths like 10 meters (33 feet) without needing extra cases. However, if you plan to dive deeper or use a model that isn't inherently waterproof, you might need an additional waterproof housing to protect the camera from water pressure and potential damage. It's essential to check the specifications of your particular camera model to ensure it meets your needs for underwater usage, and always inspect any housing for proper seals before submerging.

Best Action Cameras of March 2025

1
AKASO Brave 7 LE 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with Touch Screen EIS 2.0 Zoom Remote Control 131 Feet Underwater Camera with 2X 1350mAh Batteries Support External Microphone Vlog Camera

Rating is 5 out of 5

AKASO Brave 7 LE 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with Touch Screen EIS 2.0 Zoom Remote Control 131 Feet Underwater Camera with 2X 1350mAh Batteries Support External Microphone Vlog Camera

  • BORN ALL-WEATHER ACTION CAMERA - Brave 7 LE action camera is weatherproof and distinct to unlock all the filming scenarios and ease your vlogging experience. Its IPX7 water-resistant design can protect the action camera from rain, snow and water splashing. Your underwater adventure can even down to 131FT/40M while equipped with the included waterproof housing.
  • CONVENIENT DUAL-DISPLAY - With innovate dual color screens design, you can change framing and monitoring views between back and front, especially the vivid front screen can satisfy your selfies need and 2-inch back touch screen makes it easy to use than ever. Press and hold Mode button to switch between the front screen and the touchscreen camera view.
  • SHOOT 4K VIDEO & 20MP PHOTO - This action camera can take hyper-quality 4K 30Fps video and 20MP photo, recording your adventure without missing any details!
  • ELECTRONIC IMAGE STABILIZATION 2.0 - This action camera is equipped with improved 6-axis EIS, it can provide gimbal-like stabilization and greatly boost the stability and fluency of your recording. It can enable excellent footage even you or the object is in fast-moving.
2
Upgrade 4K60FPS WiFi Action Camera 64MP Waterproof Camera with Touch Rear Screen, 8X Zoom Underwater Camera Snorkeling 65FT No Need a Waterproof Case with 64GB Card, Ideal for Travel Sports Vlog

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Upgrade 4K60FPS WiFi Action Camera 64MP Waterproof Camera with Touch Rear Screen, 8X Zoom Underwater Camera Snorkeling 65FT No Need a Waterproof Case with 64GB Card, Ideal for Travel Sports Vlog

  • 【4K 60FPS Action Camera & 8X Zoom】 The 4K 60fps video and 64MP photos provide crisp and vibrant footage that captured the fast-paced fun and stunning scenery. Equipped with the 8x digital zoom, the action camera allows you to get closer to your subject. Perfect for hiking, climbing, biking, skateboarding, snowboarding, skiing, skydiving, hunting, and other outdoor adventures.
  • 【Dual Screen & Compact Design】The dual-screen design, featuring both front 1.5” and rear 2” IPS, is a game-changer for framing shots. The rear screen is touch screen that is intuitive and easy to adjust settings and capture great shots. The sports camera's compact size and durability design make it perfect for capturing action-packed moments and handle a bit of extreme sports.
  • 【Without the Waterproof Case up to 65 Feet 】 The IP68 waterproof design of underwater camera can withstand depths of up to 65 feet (20 meters) without the waterproof case. Perfect for water sports like swimming, surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving. While the two rechargeable 1350mAh batteries ensure extended recording time, making it a reliable companion on a recent road trip.
3
AKASO Brave 4 4K30fps 20MP WiFi Action Camera Ultra Hd with EIS 131ft Waterproof Camera Remote Control 5xZoom Underwater Camcorder with 2 Batteries and Bicycle Helmet Accessories Kit

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

AKASO Brave 4 4K30fps 20MP WiFi Action Camera Ultra Hd with EIS 131ft Waterproof Camera Remote Control 5xZoom Underwater Camcorder with 2 Batteries and Bicycle Helmet Accessories Kit

  • 4K30fps Video & 20MP Photo: Capture every detail of life’s most beautiful moments with video resolutions from 4K 30fps to 1080P 60fps and 20MP photos so you can relive them anytime, anywhere. Start recording the wonders of your life.
  • 170° Adjustable View Angle and Image Stabilization: With four customizable viewing angles of 170°, 140°, 110°, and 70°, capture the perfect perspective for any situation. Built-in smart gyroscope technology ensures shock-resistant and stable shooting, leading to incredibly smooth, professional-looking footage that stands out from the competition.
  • Sport Camera with Wifi and HDMI: This action camera comes equipped with both Wi-Fi and HDMI capabilities, allowing you to quickly and effortlessly share and edit videos with the free app. Simply download the app on your phone or tablet and connect with the camera. With a Wi-Fi signal range of up to 10 meters and an HDMI port for TV connectivity, you can easily share your exciting experiences with friends and family in high quality and on a bigger screen.
4
ODDV 4K60FPS 30MP Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, Underwater Camera with 64GB Memory Card, 132FT Waterproof Camera, EIS, 5X Zoom, WiFi Remote Control(Black)

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

ODDV 4K60FPS 30MP Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, Underwater Camera with 64GB Memory Card, 132FT Waterproof Camera, EIS, 5X Zoom, WiFi Remote Control(Black)

  • CAPTURE ADVENTURE IN 4K60FPS: Record stunning 4K60FPS video and 30MP photos with sharp precision. Shoot up to 60 frames per second of crystal-clear stills, providing 4 times the resolution of standard HD cameras. Plus, with the INCLUDED 64GB MEMORY CARD, you won't have to worry about storage limitations or missed moments. Perfect for high-action environments like snowboarding, biking, motocross, hiking, climbing, skateboarding, skydiving and ziplining
  • DUAL SCREEN DESIGN: This action camera features a dual screen design, including a 2.0-inch touch-sensitive HD rear screen and a 1.4-inch non-touch front screen. The intuitive interface allows for easy adjustments to settings, seamless switching between shooting modes, and convenient previewing and playback, while also catering to your selfie needs
  • EXCEPTIONAL STABILIZATION PERFORMANCE : Built-in six-axis electronic image stabilization (EIS) provides exceptional anti-shake performance for steady and smooth videos, eliminating the frustration of shaky footage. Whether capturing thrilling adventures or everyday moments, this feature ensures smooth footage even in fast motion, letting you relive your experiences with clarity and confidence
5
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo, Waterproof Action Camera with 1/1.3" Sensor, 4K/120fps Video, Subject Tracking, Stabilization, Dual OLED Touchscreens, Action Camera 4K Ideal for Sports, Vlog

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Essential Combo, Waterproof Action Camera with 1/1.3" Sensor, 4K/120fps Video, Subject Tracking, Stabilization, Dual OLED Touchscreens, Action Camera 4K Ideal for Sports, Vlog

  • Capture Urban Nightscapes - Osmo Action 5 Pro features a new 1/1.3″ sensor for stunning low-light. Great for nighttime biking adventures in dark environments.
  • Enhanced Subject Tracking - 4nm Chip for fast, reliable framing. Keep fast-moving subjects centered. [7] The 4nm chip ensures smooth and fast framing in 16:9 or 9:16.
  • Action 5 Pro must be activated in the DJI Mimo App. Due to platform compatibility issue, the Mimo app has been removed from Google Play. To ensure a better usage experience, please scan the QR code on the camera screen prompt to download the latest version of DJI Mimo.
  • Long Lasting All-Condition Use - Experience the satisfaction of up to 4 hours of extended battery life.[1] Ideal for all scenarios, ensuring continuous performance and unbroken recording.
  • Vibrant, Precise Control - Enjoy vibrant, true-to-life colors with dual OLED touchscreens. Crisp viewing ready for any scenario makes outdoor recording and rewatching fun again.
6
i3 4K Thumb Action Camera, Tiny Size, Mount Anywhere, Small Body Camera with Spring Clip, Portable Vlogging, Hands-Free POV Recording, Helmet Cam for Cycling, Motorcycle (64G-Card, Black)

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

i3 4K Thumb Action Camera, Tiny Size, Mount Anywhere, Small Body Camera with Spring Clip, Portable Vlogging, Hands-Free POV Recording, Helmet Cam for Cycling, Motorcycle (64G-Card, Black)

  • 1.25 OZ (35.7G) & THUMB SIZE: The Sixmou i3 4K tiny action camera is so compact it’s smaller than your thumb and weighs just 1.25 ounces (35.7 grams). You can mount it on your body without even noticing it’s there, blending seamlessly with you. It offers a whole new amazing experience.
  • MOUNT ANYWHERE: The i3 sports camera features a magnetic design, allowing you to attach it to an Iron metal surface. It also comes with a magnetic lanyard pad that lets you quickly mount it to your chest in just one second. With a 360° rotating spring clip, you can effortlessly secure the camera to your collar, pocket, waist, and more. Additionally, it includes seven other mounting accessories, making it easy to attach to bikes, motorcycles, helmets, and other gear.
  • 131 FEET DEEP WATERPROOF:This mini camera includes a waterproof case, you can take the camera underwater up to 131 feet (40 meters), making it ideal for diving, snorkeling, and surfing. Just remember, the camera itself is not waterproof without the housing.
7
AKASO Brave 4 Action Camera 4K 30fps with 64GB MicroSD U3 Card Bicycle Helmet Accessories Kit Bundle, 20MP Ultra HD 131FT Waterproof Underwater Camera EIS WiFi Remote Control 5X Zoom Sport Cameras

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

AKASO Brave 4 Action Camera 4K 30fps with 64GB MicroSD U3 Card Bicycle Helmet Accessories Kit Bundle, 20MP Ultra HD 131FT Waterproof Underwater Camera EIS WiFi Remote Control 5X Zoom Sport Cameras

  • 4K30fps Video & 20MP Photo: Capture every detail of life’s most beautiful moments with video resolutions from 4K 30fps to 1080P 60fps and 20MP photos so you can relive them anytime, anywhere. Start recording the wonders of your life.
  • 170° Adjustable View Angle and Image Stabilization: With four customizable viewing angles of 170°, 140°, 110°, and 70°, capture the perfect perspective for any situation. Built-in smart gyroscope technology ensures shock-resistant and stable shooting, leading to incredibly smooth, professional-looking footage that stands out from the competition.
  • Sport Camera with Wifi and HDMI: This action camera comes equipped with both Wi-Fi and HDMI capabilities, allowing you to quickly and effortlessly share and edit videos with the free app. Simply download the app on your phone or tablet and connect with the camera. With a Wi-Fi signal range of up to 10 meters and an HDMI port for TV connectivity, you can easily share your exciting experiences with friends and family in high quality and on a bigger screen.
8
icefox Action Camera 4K 60FPS 20MP,131FT Underwater with EIS,5XZoom,App Support Video&Photo Editing,Waterproof Camera WiFi Remote Control for Cycling, Swimming, and Diving

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

icefox Action Camera 4K 60FPS 20MP,131FT Underwater with EIS,5XZoom,App Support Video&Photo Editing,Waterproof Camera WiFi Remote Control for Cycling, Swimming, and Diving

  • 【4K60FPS Ultra HD Action Camera】- Professional 4K 60fps & 2.7K 60fps video(60fps is only available when EIS is turned off.) and 20MP photos provide up to 30 frames per second, delivering exceptional photo quality that is four times higher in resolution compared to standard HD cameras
  • 【131ft Waterproof Camera】- The 4K underwater camera is waterproof up to 131 feet (40M) and has an IP68 enclosure to ensure durability in challenging conditions. Whether you enjoy water sports such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling, or take part in other exciting outdoor activities, this camera is the perfect companion for you. In addition, it comes with a range of free accessories to enhance your experience, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It should be noted that the accessory remote control needs to be waterproof before entering the water
  • 【5 Hours Long-lasting Experience】- This action camera comes with 2 x 1350mAh batteries, providing up to 2 hours of continuous shooting, eliminating concerns about recording time and ensuring extended usage without interruptions
9
AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with EIS Ultra HD Underwater Camera 131FT Waterproof Camera Remote Control 4X Zoom in Photo Mode Support External Microphone Black

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with EIS Ultra HD Underwater Camera 131FT Waterproof Camera Remote Control 4X Zoom in Photo Mode Support External Microphone Black

  • 4K Ultra HD action camera: Professional 4K30Fps & 2.7K30Fps video with 20MP photos at up to 30 frames per second for incredible photos, which is 4 times the resolution of traditional HD cameras.
  • Smooth Stabilization: Built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) delivers steady and smooth videos. It can enable excellent footage even you or the object is in fast-moving.
  • 131ft waterproof camera: AKASO EK7000 is designed to withstand extreme environments, together with durable waterproof case. With the accessories, transform it for indoor and outdoor activities.


What is the importance of using red filters underwater?

Using red filters underwater is important primarily for color correction and enhancing visibility, particularly in photography and videography. Here's why they're significant:

  1. Color Absorption: Water absorbs light colors at different rates. Red light is absorbed first, even at shallow depths (around 5 meters or 15 feet), leading to photographs and videos that often appear blue or green. A red filter compensates for this absorption by adding red back into the images, helping to restore the natural colors that are lost underwater.
  2. Enhanced Contrast and Detail: By balancing the colors, red filters help in enhancing the contrast and details in underwater scenes. This makes the subjects in photographs or videos stand out more clearly against the background.
  3. Natural-looking Images: Red filters help achieve images that appear more natural and true to what we would expect to see above water. This is especially useful for documenting underwater environments or wildlife in a way that faithfully represents their actual appearance.
  4. Visibility Improvement: Though more relevant to photography, using a red filter can help divers see better by enhancing the perceived color spectrum. This, in turn, can improve navigation and safety when exploring underwater.


Understanding these benefits underscores the importance of red filters for anyone engaged in underwater photography or videography, enabling the capture of more vivid and accurate representations of underwater scenes.


What is the benefit of using anti-fog inserts with action cameras?

Anti-fog inserts are beneficial when using action cameras, especially in conditions where temperature and humidity changes are frequent. Here are some key benefits:

  1. Clear Footage: Anti-fog inserts help prevent the lens from fogging up, ensuring that your footage remains clear and unobstructed by condensation.
  2. Reliable Performance: By reducing the chance of fogging, these inserts help maintain consistent performance of the camera, making sure you get reliable shots and video during critical moments.
  3. Versatility: Whether you're filming in cold environments, high-humidity areas, or underwater, anti-fog inserts provide a versatile solution for maintaining camera clarity across different conditions.
  4. Easy to Use: Typically, anti-fog inserts are easy to use; they can be slid into the camera housing without any special tools or adjustments required.
  5. Reusable: Many anti-fog inserts are reusable, offering an economical solution for frequent users. Simply drying them out according to the manufacturer's instructions can allow for multiple uses.


In summary, anti-fog inserts are an inexpensive and effective accessory to ensure quality footage from action cameras in various challenging environments.


How to prepare your action camera for underwater use?

Preparing your action camera for underwater use involves a few crucial steps to ensure it functions correctly and remains protected from water damage. Here's a guide to get you ready:

  1. Check Camera Specifications: Verify that your action camera is rated for underwater use. Some cameras are inherently waterproof, while others require a waterproof housing.
  2. Inspect Waterproof Housing: If your camera needs a housing, ensure it is designed for the depths you intend to explore. Check for any cracks, defects, or wear that could compromise its waterproof integrity. Inspect the O-ring and seals for dirt or damage, as these are critical for preventing leaks.
  3. Clean and Lubricate Seals: Clean all seals and O-rings with a soft, lint-free cloth. Apply a small amount of silicone grease to keep them supple and enhance their sealing capability.
  4. Test the Housing: Before using the camera, perform a test dive without the camera inside to ensure there are no leaks. Submerge the housing in a sink or bucket to check for bubbles or water entry.
  5. Secure All Latches: Double-check all latches and locks on the housing to be sure they are fully secured.
  6. Check Battery and Storage Capacity: Fully charge the camera battery and carry extras if needed, as batteries may drain faster in cooler underwater conditions. Ensure you have sufficient storage on your memory card for your recording needs.
  7. Adjust Camera Settings: Set camera settings like resolution, frame rate, and white balance beforehand, as it might be challenging to adjust them underwater. Consider using filters to correct color distortion, such as red filters for blue waters.
  8. Attach Accessories: Attach any additional accessories like flotation devices, anti-fog inserts, lens covers, or stabilizers. Secure the camera with a wrist strap or mount it to a reliable rig.
  9. Learn About the Environment: Research your dive spot. Be aware of the maximum depth you plan to reach, as it should not exceed the housing's rated depth. Familiarize yourself with the underwater conditions, such as currents and visibility.


By following these steps, you can help ensure that your action camera is ready to capture clear and exciting footage while submerged. Always conduct a final check on all equipment before entering the water.


What is the role of lighting in underwater action photography?

Lighting plays a crucial role in underwater action photography, significantly impacting the quality and aesthetic of the images captured. Here are some key ways in which lighting is important:

  1. Color Correction: Water absorbs light, and different wavelengths are absorbed at different rates. Reds and oranges disappear first, and blues last, which can lead to washed-out images devoid of warm colors. Proper lighting can help counteract this by reintroducing these lost colors, creating more vibrant and true-to-life images.
  2. Contrast and Clarity: Underwater environments can be murky, especially in deeper waters. Adequate lighting enhances contrast and sharpness, helping to define the subjects' shapes and edges, making them stand out clearly against the background.
  3. Focus and Exposure: Lighting helps in achieving the correct exposure, ensuring that the subjects are neither too dark nor overexposed. This is particularly important in action photography, where the subjects are often moving quickly and unpredictably.
  4. Texture and Details: Good lighting can highlight textures and details that might otherwise be lost. This is essential in action shots where capturing the intricate details of marine life or the movement of water is crucial.
  5. Depth Perception: Lighting can create a sense of depth, making the images more dynamic and three-dimensional. Strategic use of shadows and highlights helps in accentuating the distance between different elements in the shot.
  6. Mood and Atmosphere: Lighting can set the mood and atmosphere of a photograph. Soft lighting can create a serene atmosphere, while harsher lighting can evoke drama and intensity. This is particularly useful in conveying the narrative of the action taking place.
  7. Freeze Motion: In action photography, you often want to freeze the motion to capture moments that are fleeting. Proper lighting, particularly with strobes or high-intensity lamps, allows for faster shutter speeds, thus freezing action effectively.
  8. Reduction of Backscatter: Underwater particles can cause backscatter, creating unwanted spots and reflections in images. Proper lighting techniques, such as using strobes at an angle, can minimize these issues by reducing the amount of light reflecting directly back into the camera lens.


In summary, lighting not only compensates for the challenging conditions of the underwater environment but also enhances the artistic and narrative potential of underwater action photography.


What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant action cameras?

The terms "waterproof" and "water-resistant" are often used when describing action cameras, but they have different implications regarding the level of protection the camera offers against water exposure:

  1. Waterproof: Definition: A waterproof action camera is designed to be completely impervious to water up to a certain depth and for a certain duration, as specified by the manufacturer. This means the camera can be submerged in water without suffering damage. Usage: Waterproof cameras are suitable for underwater activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. They are ideal for capturing footage in environments where the camera may be fully immersed in water. Specifications: Manufacturers often specify a maximum depth (e.g., 10 meters/33 feet, 30 meters/98 feet) and time duration for which the camera can remain submerged.
  2. Water-Resistant: Definition: A water-resistant action camera can withstand light splashes of water and rain, but is not intended to be fully submerged or used underwater for extended periods. Usage: Water-resistant cameras are suitable for use in wet conditions like rain or snow, or in situations where they may be exposed to accidental splashes, but they are not meant for underwater activities. Specifications: Manufacturers might provide information on the degree of water resistance, often using industry-standard ratings like IP (Ingress Protection) codes that describe the protection level against water exposure.


When selecting an action camera, it's important to consider the environment in which you plan to use it. If you expect to engage in activities involving full submersion in water, opt for a waterproof model. If you only need protection against incidental water exposure, a water-resistant camera might be sufficient. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the camera meets your needs.


What is the warranty policy for waterproof action cameras?

The warranty policy for waterproof action cameras can vary depending on the manufacturer and specific model. However, most reputable companies offer a limited warranty that typically covers defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period after purchase, usually ranging from one to two years. Here are some general points to consider:

  1. Coverage: Typically covers defects in materials and workmanship. This may include issues like malfunctioning buttons, faulty displays, or problems with the waterproof seals.
  2. Exclusions: Usually does not cover damage caused by misuse, accidents, unauthorized repairs, or improper handling, such as not following manufacturer instructions on how to use the camera underwater.
  3. Proof of Purchase: You will need to provide proof of purchase, such as a receipt, to make a warranty claim.
  4. Registration: Some manufacturers require you to register your product shortly after purchase to activate the warranty.
  5. Claim Process: You generally need to contact the manufacturer’s customer service for instructions. This might involve sending the camera to an authorized repair center for evaluation.
  6. Waterproof Limitations: Make sure you understand the camera's depth rating for waterproof use, as using it beyond the specified limits can void the warranty.
  7. Regional Variations: Warranty terms can differ depending on the region, so it's best to check the specific warranty information that came with your camera or on the manufacturer’s website.


It's important to read the specific warranty terms for your model to understand exactly what is and isn’t covered. If you have a specific brand or model in mind, checking their official website or contacting their support can be very helpful.

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