When snorkeling, you encounter beautiful species of fish and coral reefs. These worth thousands of photos and videos. But, since you’re underwater, you can’t use your phone nor regular cameras. That’s where underwater cameras come into play. These cameras can be submerged deep in water without getting ruined. Perfect for snorkeling and diving! The latest invention allows them to shoot high-definition videos and photographs that show every color and detail of the underwater world. On your next underwater trip, make sure to have the best underwater camera for snorkeling with you. And we’re sure you’ll find it on our list below!
How to Choose the Best Underwater Camera for Snorkeling
When buying underwater cameras, you should mainly focus on its water-resistance and resolution. However, there are other factors, such as price, that you need to consider too. Let’s check them out:
Water Resistance
Water-resistance is the most important thing you need to keep in mind. Here’s why: the more resistant it is, the more versatile it is to use on different snorkeling sites. The resistance varies between 30ft and 130ft. If you tend to snorkel frequently, we recommend you get one with at least 100ft or 133ft resistance. This way, you can use it not just for snorkeling, but also diving deep underwater. Now, if you’re looking for the best underwater camera for snorkeling on your annual beach vacation, one with less water-resistance will do.
Price
Like any other product, the price for underwater cameras varies depending on the features they include. The more it brings, the higher the price. Fortunately, several cheap options are affordable without diminishing quality. We dig deeper into this on our best waterproof camera under 200 list. Most of them even record in 4k resolutions. But if you don’t mind spending more, high-end underwater cameras are available, too. Brands like Nikon and GoPro make high-quality waterproof cameras that you can buy. To sum up, choose the camera that fits best your needs and won’t break the bank.
Photo and Video Resolution
Capturing underwater environments should be done right. Therefore, choosing a camera with a high-definition resolution is ideal. You don’t want to get excited about the photos and videos you took only to realize that they’re blurry and not sharp enough.
If you prefer to shoot photographs over videos, make sure the camera captures at least 20MP of quality. This resolution provides clearer images and enhances color. For those who love to film, buying a camera that records 4k and 2.7k videos is the best option. Lucky for you, HD underwater cameras usually feature high-quality resolutions for both photos and videos.
Size
For underwater gear, less is more. The smaller the camera, the more practical it is. Trust us, you don’t want to buy a bulky camera that will make you feel uncomfortable when swimming. We recommend buying the smallest camera you can find. This way, you can easily store and carry it everywhere you go. But, you might wonder: isn’t a smaller camera easy to lose? Yes, but most of them include mounting kits that let you attach them to your snorkeling gear, diving suits, or selfie sticks. So, no need to worry about your camera getting lost in the deep blue sea.
On that note, if you’re planning to get one for your kids, we recommend reading our list of 13 Best Underwater Cameras for Kids next!
Shooting modes
Last but not least, you should buy a camera that features different shooting modes. Some of the most common ones are time-lapses, loop recordings, and slow-motion. These are useful for recording different types of videos. Let’s say you encounter dolphins while snorkeling. Wouldn’t it be nice to record their movements in slow-motion?
Shooting modes also include the lighting options for photos. Some cameras feature a special “snorkeling mode” that reduces red light and enhances color underwater. Others feature special options for low-light environments, which are ideal for dark waters. When buying your perfect underwater camera, get one that includes several shooting modes.
PRYMAX Sport Action Waterproof Camera (CU)
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The first underwater camera on our list is PRYMAX Sports Action Waterproof Camera. This ultra-HD camera records videos in 4k, 2.7k, and 1080p resolutions, which makes your recordings look professional. The photos are also in high-definition: 16MP at a 30-frames per second rate. Prepare for some beautiful underwater pictures!
The 2.4G wrist remote lets you operate the camera when it’s out of reach, making it the best underwater camera for snorkeling. You can easily attach the camera to your diving suit, allowing you to swim freely and record at the same time. For your convenience, it also includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options. And the HDMI input provides easy access to your files.
Resistance-wise, the camera can be submerged up to 98ft underwater. You can use it not only for snorkeling but also for diving! The camera’s case is shockproof and withstands harsh weather conditions, enhancing its durability even more.
What We Love
A heavy-duty underwater camera for snorkeling.
Pros:
- 4k videos
- Affordable
- 90 minutes of recording time
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- 98ft water resistance
Cons:
- Doesn’t include an image stabilization option.
Olympus TG-5 Waterproof Camera
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Located on the high-end category of underwater cameras, Olympus TG-5 Waterproof Camera is a great option for snorkeling. The camera captures photographs in 12megapixels. Better yet, it features a high-speed image sensor that reduces noise and improves lighting in dark environments. The videos are recorded in a MOV format and are high-quality too.
With a dimension of 4.4 x 1.3 x 2.6 inches and a 0.55lbs weight, it’s considered a compact camera. Thanks to its freeze-proof feature, you can use it in any ocean, river, and lake. And you can submerge it up to 50ft in-depth. It’s also one of the most resistant underwater cameras. Besides being waterproof, it’s also dust, crush, and shock-proof, and the lens included is anti-fog. Blurry photos are in the past!
Lastly, we love its underwater shooting modes. You can take snapshots and both wide and macro photos. When snorkeling at night, use its “live composite mode” to enhance colors and add more light.
What We Love
The best underwater camera for snorkeling in dark waters.
Pros:
- 50ft water resistance
- Shockproof
- Anti-fog lens
- Freeze-proof
- Glove-friendly
Cons:
- Pricier compared to other underwater cameras.
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RUMIXI Action Underwater Camera (404)
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If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-quality underwater camera, this is a great option. RUMIXI Action Underwater Camera shoots high-definition 4k videos and photos in a 12MP resolution. On the 2-inch screen, you can preview your files and delete the ones you don’t like. For your convenience, it features an anti-shake and image stabilizer that reduces noise in pictures and provides smooth videos. Forget about grainy, blurry photos!
Depending on your preferences, the viewing angle can be adjusted at 170°, 140°, 110°, and 70°. Perfect for capturing every aspect of the underwater world! The camera is waterproof up to 98ft deep, making it a great candidate for the best underwater camera for snorkeling.
For accessibility, it features a built-in Wi-Fi that provides easy access to your images from other devices. And it’s compatible with 32GB memory cards. It also includes a wrist remote controller with up to 100ft range, ideal for recording underwater.
What We Love
You can’t beat its price point.
Pros:
- 4k resolution
- Affordable
- 1-year warranty
- Includes 2.4G remote controller
- 170° viewing angle
Cons:
- The recording sound of the videos isn’t high-quality.
Nikon W300 Waterproof Digital Camera
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Nikon W300 Waterproof Digital Camera is the perfect option if you prefer videos over photographs. It can easily be the best underwater video camera for snorkeling. Here’s why: it records ultra-HD videos in a 4k or 1080p resolution with stereo sound. Even better, you can edit them and add special effects using the Short Movie Show. The time-lapse option lets you transform an hour’s worth of footage into a 10-second sequence.
The photographs it captures are of high quality, too. They feature a 16MP resolution! Nikon’s low-light sensor enhances the image’s details and colors even when taken in dark environments. But if you want more lighting, turn on the built-in LED light. To ensure versatility, it also includes autofocus and continuous shooting options. And with the macro mode, you can take outstanding photos of small details in corals, fish, and more.
The camera includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which is always helpful for sharing and transferring files. And if you download Nikon’s SnapBridge app, you can easily access your photos from any device. Besides, it’ll also back-up your photos and videos as you take them.
What We Love
A practical underwater camera that’ll make your snorkeling adventures better.
Pros:
- Three colors available
- Shockproof
- 5x optical zoom
- Built-in Bluetooth
- 16MP photo resolution
Cons:
- It’s one of the most expensive underwater cameras.
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Kansing Underwater Digital Camera for Snorkeling
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For those who are looking for a traditional underwater camera, Kansing Underwater Digital Camera for Snorkeling is the best option. It features a classic camera-style and a yellow and black pattern. But don’t let the design fool you. This camera shoots high-quality videos and photographs and has dual-screens.
On the 2.7-inch LCD rear-facing screen, you can browse through your files and adjust the settings. Meanwhile, the 1.8-inch front-facing screen is perfect for taking selfies. For your convenience, it also includes an adjustable self-timer that can be set for 2, 5, and 10 seconds. Family pictures have never been easier! With a dimension of 6.4 x 6 x 2.5 inches, it’s big enough without compromising its portability. And it’s a lightweight camera, weighing less than a pound.
When fully charged, the camera can last up to 5-hours straight. And you can use it up to 10ft underwater. Like most underwater cameras, this one supports up to 128GB memory cards.
What We Love
The ideal camera for long snorkeling trips.
Pros:
- Supports 128GB memory cards
- Self-timer
- 2.7k video resolution
- Anti-shake
- Dual-screen design
Cons:
- Less water resistance compared to other underwater cameras.
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COOAU Native Action Sports Camera (404)
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COOAU Native Action Sports Camera shoots both HD photos and videos. The video resolutions include 4k, 1080p, and 720p, while the photographs feature a 20MP resolution. An image sensor enhances the photos’ color, pixel details, and clarity, perfect for shooting in dark and turbulent waters. It also features 8x-zoom that makes photography easier. However, the zoom is not available for videos.
The 11 shooting modes included making it the best underwater video camera for snorkeling. Six of them are for videos and five for photographs. The video modes include time-lapse, loop, slow motion, and fast motion. And the photo ones feature self-timer, long exposure, and lapse mode. As if that were not enough, it features seven auto white balance options, such as cloudy, daylight, and incandescent. Low-light backgrounds won’t be a problem anymore! It even has a snorkeling mode that enhances the image’s quality when shooting in water.
What We Love
Features eleven shooting modes that’ll make your underwater videos unique.
Pros:
- 131ft water resistance
- 4k video resolution
- 11 shooting modes
- 8x zoom
- Includes remote controller
Cons:
- Pricier compared to other underwater cameras of the same capacity.
Star Power Waterproof Camera for Snorkeling
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Next up is Star Power Waterproof Camera. Designed specifically for snorkeling, it’s a digital camera that captures photos in a 48MP resolution and 2.7k videos. Prepare for vibrant underwater images! The dual-screen design makes taking both selfies and regular photos so much easier. And on the rear-facing screen, you can delete any unwanted photo and video. You can adjust the settings there, too.
The camera’s anti-shake feature provides clear and detailed photos. And it’s also convenient when swimming in turbulent or agitated waters.
Its dimension of 4.3 x 2.5 x 1 inch and 0.6lbs weight, make it a compact and lightweight camera. When fully charged, the lithium battery included stays on for two hours straight. As expected, it supports up to 128GB SD cards, providing plenty of storage for your high-definition videos. Despite only resisting up to 10ft underwater, the camera it’s durable. However, if something goes wrong, a lifetime warranty protects your purchase.
What We Love
The best starter camera for snorkeling.
Pros:
- 2-hour runtime
- 16x digital zoom
- Supports 128GB memory cards
- Anti-shake
- Two colors available
Cons:
- Only endures up to 10ft underwater.
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APEMAN A80 Action Camera (404)
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APEMAN A80 Action Camera is the best option if you want the most accurate underwater photos. It captures 20MP photographs and has a built-in smart gyroscope that provides image stabilization. Detailed photos and smooth videos are guaranteed! The videos are recorded in a 4k quality, which gives them a professional style. Besides, the 170° adjustable viewing angle offers more clarity when recording underwater.
The several shooting modes included are ideal for different types of videos. Some of them are loop recording and time-lapse, which are convenient for filming a shoal of fish. The time-lapse is customizable, and you can change the time intervals as much as you want.
The 131ft water resistance itself makes it the best underwater camera for snorkeling. And it allows you to record in deeper snorkeling sites. The camera also features a heavy-duty 1050mah battery that enhances durability. And for your convenience, it includes a carrying bag that makes packing it easier.
What We Love
Records ultra-detailed videos.
Pros:
- 4k video resolution
- 131ft water resistance
- Includes carrying bag
- 4x zoom
- Shooting-timer
Cons:
- Does not include an SD card.
GoPro Hero 7 Waterproof Digital Camera Set (404)
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If you don’t mind spending more money on high-end waterproof cameras, this could be your perfect match. GoPro Hero 7 Waterproof Digital Camera is one of the smallest and most practical cameras you can find. It only measures 1.75 x 2.44 x 1.1 inches and weighs as low as 4.2oz. So convenient to carry!
The camera records outstanding 4k videos and 10MP photos. Regardless of the brightness, the lens captures every detail and portrays the colors accurately. Different shooting options are available for both videos and photographs. You can shoot up to 15 photos in just one second! You can also take pictures vertically, which is always helpful when taking a selfie. And the photo timer is perfect for group and family photos.
We love this set because it not only includes the camera but a 32GB SD card, chest strap, tripod, and a floating handle. As if those were not enough, the camera includes a voice control option, convenient when your hands are wet.
What We Love
Takes super high-quality photos and videos.
Pros:
- 4k video resolution
- Compact
- Ultra-lightweight
- Voice control
- Includes 32GB memory card
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other underwater cameras that are bigger.
AKASO Sports Action Waterproof Camera
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AKASO Sports Action Waterproof Camera is a charming tiny underwater camera that comes in three different colors, including a beautiful vivid blue. It has a dimension of 2.3 x 1.6 x 0.95 inches and only weighs 1.76oz. The camera can resist up to 98ft underwater, which easily makes it the best underwater camera for snorkeling. And it also features an IP68 waterproof level.
Besides being super resistant, it produces high-quality images. You can record videos in a 4k and 2.7k resolution and take photos in 12MP. What’s better, you can shoot time lapses, loop videos, and burst photos, too. On top of that, the 170° lens provides wider angles for both your videos and photographs. And those who like continuous video shoot will love the camera’s 180-minutes runtime.
To make it even more convenient for its users, the camera includes a built-in Wi-Fi that you can use to transfer your photos to your other devices. And if you download the app, you can share them directly on your social media.
What We Love
The most lightweight underwater camera you can find.
Pros:
- Three colors available
- Affordable
- 4k video resolution
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- 100ft water resistance
Cons:
- Only supports up to 32GB SD cards.
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Dragon Touch Vision 3 Action Camera
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With a dimension of 4.53 x 2.95 x 9.06 inches, Dragon Touch Vision 3 pro Action Camera is basically a compact camera. It records 4k videos and shoots 16MP photos, perfect for capturing every detail of the underwater world. 4x-zoom is also included, which is always helpful.
The camera features a 2-inch screen where you can view your files and also adjust the settings. You can choose different wide angles to suit every type of photo you want to take. If you like taking narrow images, choose the 70° view angle. And for a wider field of view, change it to the 170° option. With the wireless remote control included, you can easily switch from video to photo mode. But be careful, as it’s not as waterproof as the camera. The camera can go as deep as 100ft, while the control only resists light water touch.
What makes it the best underwater camera for snorkeling is its diving mode. This shooting mode filters the red light underwater and provides better quality photographs and videos.
What We Love
An affordable yet high-quality underwater camera.
Pros:
- Affordable
- 4k video resolution
- 100ft water resistance
- Includes wrist remote control
- 4x zoom
Cons:
- Does not include an SD card.
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AKASO V50X Native Waterproof Camera
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It’s no secret that AKASO makes some of the best underwater cameras, and this one is no exception. The V50X Native Waterproof Camera can record videos in two HD resolutions: 4K and 2.7K. Prepare for some breathtaking underwater films! The electronic image stabilization ensures the quality of both the photos and videos. Say hello to steady, non-shaky footage!
For your convenience, it features different shooting modes, including time-lapse, slow motion, and loop recording. The adjustable view angle lets you take both wide and narrow photos without compromising the HD resolution. Even better, the white balance option provides clearer images when filming underwater. And the “distortion calibration” feature corrects any image or video that is distorted.
With a water resistance of up to 131ft, it’s simply the best underwater video camera for snorkeling. The 1350mAh rechargeable batteries it includes can run up to 180 minutes continuously. And to ensure functionality, it comes with different mounting accessories. You can easily attach the camera to your diving suit or selfie stick.
What We Love
From features to accessories, it includes everything you need for recording while snorkeling.
Pros:
- 131ft water resistance
- Adjustable view angle
- 180-minutes runtime
- 4k and 2.7k video resolution
- Includes wrist remote control
Cons:
- Only takes 12MP photos.
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GoPro Hero 8 Waterproof Action Camera
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When it comes to the best underwater cameras for snorkeling, GoPro Hero 8 Waterproof Action Camera wins the game. The camera features three levels of stabilization that provides the smoothest and steadiest videos you can record. Besides, you can choose between four different lenses: narrow, distortion-free linear, wide, and super-view. Regardless of what you’re shooting, you’ll always get the best high-quality view.
We love that it’s a super-compact and lightweight camera. It only measures 1.14 x 1.89 x 2.6 inches and weighs as low as 0.2lbs. And the camera is shockproof while enduring heavy use up to 33ft deep.
The different shooting effects let you record unique underwater footage. The LiveBurst mode captures 1.5 seconds before and after you take the photo. Therefore, you can pick the one you like best or save it as a 3-second clip. And if you like to snorkel at night, use the night lapse video option that enhances lighting and maintains the HD resolution. The SuperPhoto option also ensures quality when shooting in low-light areas. Regardless of the time and place where you snorkel, this camera will record the best underwater photos and videos.
What We Love
The go-to camera if you want professional underwater videos.
Pros:
- 4k video resolution
- Lightweight
- Compact
- High-quality audio
- Impact-resistant lens
Cons:
- For its size, it’s one of the most expensive underwater cameras.
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