Was the last weekend at the beach fatal for your digital camera? I'm sorry, but these are risks that must be taken into account when using non-water resistant devices in places such as seaside resorts. If you want a friend's advice, buy one underwater camera to be used in such circumstances. I assure you that you will not regret.
As for the amount to spend, do not be alarmed: unless you have professional needs, you can take home a good product by investing less than 100 euros, but there are also models that offer greater quality or greater resistance by paying a little more. and providing everything you need to churn out photographs to be proud of, despite the extreme conditions.
In short, if you are looking for a camera to take to the sea or to the pool, you are in the right place! In this guide, in fact, I will show you everything you need to know about the products of the category and the technical or structural characteristics that you must observe in an underwater camera before making the purchase. Furthermore, it will be my pleasure to offer you the best models of underwater cameras currently on the market, divided by price ranges.
Design
Il design is the most important feature of one underwater camera, and by design I obviously do not mean only the aesthetic aspect, but the structural characteristics of the device that allow it to resist and function even under water or in places where it is not unusual to wet the camera.
The design of a camera of this type is characterized by numerous seals and technical solutions that prevent water from reaching the delicate internal components of the device, so that it can be used in virtually any environment. Underwater cameras are basically divided into two main branches.
- Compact underwater cameras - are the traditional ones, characterized by small dimensions and almost always pocket-sized. They have the aesthetics of a traditional camera, but the external structure prevents the entry of liquids and, often, even dust.
- Action camera subacquee - they are small cameras aimed above all at those who record action videos, both sports and adventurous, to immortalize their deeds in different areas. They are characterized by extremely small dimensions, for easy portability and for the possibility of using accessories that can be attached wherever you want. Waterproofing is often guaranteed by housings which, however, are not always supplied as standard.
Water resistance
La water resistance it is obviously the main feature of an underwater camera and is often referred to as the maximum possible immersion depth. The low-end models can guarantee dives of a maximum of a few tens of meters, while the higher ones in the range can even allow you to exceed 100 meters. If you simply need to take it to the pool or to the sea, of course, you can also afford to spend very little!
Other resistances
There are also models on the market that, in addition to water resistance, also offer other types of resistors. On an underwater digital camera you might as well get the impact resistance o to falls (usually at a man's height, therefore up to 2 meters), the resistance to extreme temperatures (usually in the cold, down to -10 ° C) and the common resistance to dust ingress. Electronic components are sensitive not only to water, but also to sand, dirt and smaller particles that could affect their performance.
Dimensions and weight
Naturally, it also evaluates the characteristics of dimensions e weight, since they are cameras that are born to be carried everywhere. On the market there are mainly compact models, with the smallest ones which - as I have already told you - are action cameras. The latter are mainly oriented to video recording, while for taking photos I suggest you rely on a compact camera with water resistance.
Technical features
So far we have only analyzed the structural and design characteristics of an underwater digital camera, however the actual shooting quality is given by the technical features integrated and by the features present. These are the same concepts that we find on traditional cameras, and that are worth reviewing a bit before choosing the right underwater camera model for your needs.
Sensor and resolution
Il sensor it represents the centerpiece of the camera, the element that makes it possible to transpose light into a digital file through an image processor connected to it. It is characterized by numerous photodiodes that capture the light transmitted by the lens, collecting the brightness and color data, data which are then processed by the processor to become file “RAW” or compressed (JPEG) to save space on the memory card.
The sensor determines the resolution maximum of the photograph: the greater the number of photodiodes, the higher the count of the pixels present in the shot will be. The resolution, which in digital photography is measured in Megapixels, is not synonymous with the quality of the shot but its definition, while the quality is defined by a whole series of components that work in synergy to offer detail, color fidelity and adequate exposure values in the lights and shadows.
Focus
You have certainly heard of the focus, which in today's cameras is always - or almost - automatic. The focus allows you to highlight a specific subject of the environment that you want to capture (or blur others, far or near). The various models on the market allow you to focus from certain distances, generally starting from 15 or 20 centimeters up to very high distances defined as "infinite". If you intend to carry out macro photographs, very close, consider specific patterns that allow you to do this.
Lens: optical or digital zoom
Definitely important in a camera is theobiettivo, which has the task of collecting and transferring the surrounding light to the sensor. In a compact or action camera you will never find very high quality lenses, however they can have more or less important characteristics that guarantee more or less interesting shots.
THEaperture determines the amount of light collected: compacts can have apertures ranging from f / 1.8 and up, with the lower values being preferable for portraits, the higher ones for landscapes where greater depth of field is needed. In general, the lower the figure following the f / wording, the greater the amount of light collected and the lower the depth of field.
The built-in objective may contain the ability to make one optical zoom, ie without loss of quality and guaranteed by the movement of the integrated lenses to increase the focal length. The optical zoom contrasts with the digital zoom, which is of lower quality and is achieved by enlarging the image via software to give only the impression of approach.
ISO sensitivity
Setting one ISO sensitivity higher, you can take pictures even in low light environments. However, this is not possible without losing quality, since increasing the value also increases the noise in the photo, i.e. the presence of fictitious details that do not exist in the photographed environment, also reducing the amount of details present.
A good and large sensor allows you to increase the ISO while losing very little quality, but on a digital compact usually the sensors are small and mediocre. What you must also evaluate is theextension of ISO values supported, which usually start at 100 (or even a little less) until reaching i 12800 ISO in the highest models in the range.
functions
If quality isn't usually the selling point of an underwater digital camera, the functions present can be really many. Those related to the shot are generally the different ones mode to take "prepackaged" photos (for example by improving the rendering of panoramas, landscapes, photos in the dark, sports photos, portraits, portraits of animals), or the ability to manage everything in manual.
But there are also other functions "external" to the shooting capability. For example, given the "adventurous" character of an underwater camera, you can find the Integrated GPS, to save the location of the photos, the electronic compass, barometer,altimeter. Among the essential functions there is also the presence of one SD memory card slot (microSD on action cameras), which allows you to record photos and videos.
In addition, each camera now integrates a , which can be anti-glare for greater convenience of use in the sun or even underwater. Among the most used technologies we find the traditional IPS LCD and l 'OLED. They are both excellent in terms of color quality, but the latter are more advanced: they consume less and have deeper blacks, thanks to the ability to completely turn off the individual pixels.
Video recording
I advise you not to underestimate the video recording when buying an underwater camera, especially the resolution and the so-called frame rate. All cameras, even the cheapest ones, are capable of recording video at the HD resolution, which corresponds to 1280 x 720 pixels. If the videos are an important part for you, however, I advise you not to go below the Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels). The more expensive models can also support resolutions 2K Quad HD e 4K Ultra HD, respectively equal to 2560 x 1440 pixels and 3840 x 2160 pixels.
The frame rate represents the number of frames recorded in one second: traditionally it is recorded at 25 o 30 fps (frame per second), while lately i 60 fps which allow you to obtain extremely smooth and more realistic videos. High values in the frame rate also allow to obtain the slow motion effect, defined in jargon and in English with the term slow-motion.
Connectivity
Among the technologies of connectivity now become essential on a camera we find the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Both are used to transfer the photos and videos on the device to another device, such as a smartphone, tablet or home computer.
Wi-Fi is faster than Bluetooth, and thanks to the Wi-Fi Direct (not present on all devices) it is possible to connect the camera directly to the external device without using an external router. To quickly pair the two devices there is also support a NFC (Near Field Communication): with this technology it is sufficient to bring the two terminals close to exchange data using, as a vector, one of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
The cameras can also connect to IT devices via cable, with different ports depending on the use you have to make of them: to exchange data you can find, for example, a micro USB port, while to view the contents on the camera directly on a TV or monitor you find a HDMI, often in a small format.
Battery
The last factor I advise you to consider, but not the least important, is the battery. This component defines theautonomy of the camera and its ability to take a greater or lesser number of photographs when away from power outlets. Manufacturers sometimes specify how many photos you can take on a single charge, other times the capacity of the drive built into milliampereo (mAh). If the autonomy is unsatisfactory, you can still take other batteries with you, to be replaced if necessary (even on action cameras).
Which underwater camera to buy
After reviewing these terms and definitions, you are ready to choose the underwater camera tailored to your needs. Below, therefore, I propose a list of best products on the market divided by various price ranges.
Best budget underwater camera (less than 100 euros)
APEMAN A77
La APEMAN A77 is an action camera equipped with a 170 ° wide-angle lens, which allows you to record videos in 4K Ultra HD at 30 frames per second and take photos of 20 MP. Photos and videos are saved on micro SD (maximum 64 GB), which is not supplied. The impermeability is guaranteed by the possibility of insertion inside a special case that allows you to go down to a depth of 30 meters. It supports Wi-Fi connectivity and also has a practical 2 ″ rear display, through which it is possible to view the frame, photos and manage the various functions.
Easypix W1024
Among the most famous cheap underwater cameras I can not recommend you the Easypix W1024, with a rather “cool” design with different cheeky colors (in addition to black and white, it is available in blue, yellow, pink and red) and with a water resistance capacity up to a maximum of 3 meters deep. It has a 6,1 cm diagonal display and implements a 10 MP sensor, which shoots at 16 MP via software interpolation. The zoom is digital only, from 4x. Video recording takes place at a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels, at 30 fps.
Victure AC800
La Victure Victure AC800 is a small inexpensive action camera that allows you to record videos at 4K Ultra HD resolution. It has a 20 MP sensor and with the supplied case it can be used underwater, reaching a maximum depth of 40 meters. It has Wi-Fi connectivity and a 2 ″ display, while the lens offers a 170 ° field of view. Among the functions present we have the possibility to balance the white point even in diving, time lapse, night mode, 4x zoom (with loss of quality) and auto mode.
COOAU SPC06
Another action camera to be seriously considered for shots and filming in the water is the COOAU SPC06. It is in fact waterproof up to 40 meters, thanks to the special case supplied. It allows you to record videos in 4K Ultra HD at 30 fps and take photos of 20 MP. It has a 170 ° angle lens and offers several interesting features, including the ability to record in time lapse, slow motion, use the self-timer and the continuous shooting function. It is also equipped with an intelligent stabilization system and supports Wi-Fi.
Vedi offers your AmazonLeadEdge A20
La LeadEdge A20 is a very interesting action cam model, thanks to which it is possible to record videos in 4K Ultra HD at 30 fps or 1080p at 60 fps and to take good quality photos, using the 20 MP sensor. It has a three-axis gyroscope and accelerometer, supports the use of anti-shake technology, and is equipped with both an internal and external microphone. In addition, it has a comfortable 2 ″ rear IPS display and supports Wi-Fi connectivity. It comes with a waterproof case that is resistant to a depth of 40 meters and a remote control is also included in the sales package.
Vedi offers your AmazonBest mid-range underwater camera (between 100 euros and 250 euros)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT30
By exceeding the psychological threshold of 100 euros you can buy products of certainly higher quality, such as Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT30, an entry-level model that, however, has everything you need to satisfy the less demanding palates. In fact, it has a 16 MP sensor, allows you to record videos with 1280 x 720p resolution, there is the Mega OIS optical stabilization and a lens capable of offering a zoom (also optical) up to 8 magnifications. Withstands diving up to 8 meters deep, shocks from a maximum height of 1,5 meters, dust and low temperatures down to -10 ℃.
Vedi offers your AmazonAKASO Brave 7 LE
La AKASO Brave 7 LE it is a good quality action camera that boasts some pretty interesting features at a low price. It can record 4K video at up to 30 frames per second and allows you to take 20MP photos, even using digital zoom. It also has a 6-axis electronic stabilizer (EIS) and has two displays, one rear and one front, useful for managing the features offered by the camera and for taking selfies. It has IPX7 certification, so it is resistant to rain, snow and water splashes, while using the special case present in the sales package it can also be used underwater, up to a maximum depth of 40 meters.
Vedi offers your AmazonSony HDR-AS50
La Sony HDR-AS50 is an action cam that allows you to take photos with the proprietary 11 MP built-in sensor and to record videos in Full HD 1080p quality at 60fps and time lapse movies even at 4K resolution. It also features an ultra wide-angle Zeiss Tessar lens, a SteadyShot stabilizer, has Wi-Fi and records directly to SDXC cards. It also integrates two stereo microphones and has a small side screen to manage all the main functions. It can be used underwater up to 60 meters deep, using the supplied underwater protection, equipped with a flat panel that does not create obstacles in the pressure of the various buttons on the camera.
Nikon Coolpix W150
Nikon cannot be missing from a list of cameras, with the Nikon Coolpix W150 which is the company's entry-level among waterproof models (up to 10 meters deep). It is also resistant to cold up to -10 ° C and falls up to a maximum of 1,8 meters in height, as well as to dust. It supports connectivity via Bluetooth and can record videos up to the maximum resolution Full HD at 30 fps with stereo audio. The integrated sensor is 13,2 MP, there is a 3x optical zoom and a 3 ″ diagonal LCD display.
Vedi offers your AmazonFujifilm FinePix XP140
La Fujifilm FinePix XP140 is a high quality underwater camera, capable of withstanding up to 25 meters depth (for up to 25 minutes), as well as sand and dust, frost down to -10 ° C and drops from 1,8, 16,4 m. It has a 5 MP BSI-CMOS sensor, has 100x optical zoom, support for ISO 12800 to 28, is equipped with a Fujinon 140-3.9mm F6,2-F3 lens and there is a convenient 4 ″ rear display. It also allows you to shoot videos at the maximum resolution of 17K and offers several interesting features to make better shots, including XNUMX filters, automatic face identification and autofocus.
Victure AC940
La Victure AC940 is an action cam with a metal body, which makes it waterproof up to 5 meters deep. Furthermore, using the special case included in the sale price it can be used up to 40 meters deep. It allows you to record videos in 4K at 60 fps and take photos with a maximum resolution of 20 MP. It has a 6-axis system for image stabilization and offers several interesting additional features, such as wind noise reduction, time lapse, the ability to take pictures in sequence and to automatically start recording when turned on. There is also a convenient rear touch display and Wi-Fi support.
Best high-end underwater camera (over 250 euros)
GoPro HERO9 Black
La GoPro HERO9 Black is the newest model in the range of the well-known American manufacturer. It allows you to take photos of 20 MP and to record in 5K at 30 fps and in 4K at 60 fps. It is equipped with two displays, a rear one that provides information and a front one that allows you to optimize the shot. It has an advanced stabilization system that proves to be extremely effective, offers functions to record timed scenes, supports voice control and audio recording is taken care of by the integrated microphone. It is waterproof up to 10 meters, but by purchasing the special protective case separately it can be used up to 60 meters.
Vedi offers your AmazonDJI Osmo Action
Another great action camera belonging to the high end of the market that you can consider buying to take pictures and record videos in the water is the DJI Osmo Action. It has a three-optic lens and a 12 MP CMOS sensor, with which Ultra HD images can be obtained and which allows you to shoot movies in 4K at 60 fps. In addition, it has a dual display, to manage the operation of the camera and to adjust the framing, integrates the RockSteady stabilization system, supports voice control, timed shots, slow motion, long exposure and time lapse. Withstands water up to 11 meters deep and is also resistant to low temperatures down to -10 ° C.
Vedi offers your AmazonOlympus Stylus TG-6
La Olympus Stylus TG-6 is a compact digital camera with waterproof body up to 15 meters deep. It is also resistant to falls from a maximum height of 2,1 meters and can work even in cold temperatures down to a minimum of -10 ° C. It can also be crushed by weights up to 100 kilograms. It has a 12 MP CMOS sensor and allows you to record videos in 4K and Full HD at 120 fps. It integrates several interesting features: F2‑4.9 aperture lens for shooting with fast shutter speeds, 4x optical zoom (25‑100 mm) for wide-angle shots, rear LCD, RAW shooting mode and also GPS, compass, pressure gauge, temperature sensor and Wi-Fi.
Vedi offers your AmazonPENTAX RICOH WG-6
La PENTAX RICOH WG-6 it is a camera with a rather sturdy structure that not only turns out to be waterproof up to 20 meters deep, but which is also declared as shock resistant up to 2,1 meters and cold up to -10 ° C. It is also anti-crushing up to 100 Kg. It has a 20 MP sensor, with 5x optical zoom, and allows you to record videos in 4K at 30 fps. It also has GPS, an annular illuminator for macro photography and video recording in low light conditions and a convenient 3 ″ rear LCD display to view and manage content, functions and framing.
Vedi offers your AmazonNikon Coolpix W300
La Nikon Coolpix W300 it's not cheap, but it offers the guarantee of one of the most famous brands in the entire sector. This model is waterproof up to a maximum of 30 meters without the aid of any case, is resistant to drops from a maximum of 2,4 meters and can also work in temperatures from -10 ° C. It is also resistant to dust. All this is combined with a 16 MP sensor, capable of recording even at 4K Ultra HD or Full HD resolution at a maximum of 60 frames per second. It integrates GPS with water depth support and there are also Bluetooth 4.1 and Wi-Fi, for remote management.
Vedi offers your Amazon Best Underwater Camera: Buying Guide
