Social media feeds are full of bright beach photos with stunningly perfect palm trees and the deepest blue water. But taking yourcamerato the beach can be risky—sand gets in places you never think it can—and most models won't survive a quick dip in the ocean.
The good news is that you might already own a waterproof camera. The IP68 rating of the latest iPhones and flagship Android phones means they can survive submersion for short amounts of time. And the rise of quality camera phones has gone a long way in reducing the number of dedicated point-and-shoots on the market. But even if you're just taking a quick dip and want to snap a selfie, there are reasons not to take your phone into the water.
For instance, if you lose it, you lose all the data on it. That's especially a concern for travelers who store documents like boarding passes and hotel confirmations on theirsmartphones. And let's not forget how much a new phone costs.
With all that in mind, you should consider getting a waterproof camera that's not too expensive. That way, it's not the end of the world if something goes wrong. Many waterproof cameras are also quite durable and can survive drops onto hard surfaces.
Read on for the top models we've tested, along with a disposable 35mm film camera we included just for fun. If you choose the latter, just make sure you live near a store that develops film; most drug stores no longer have color minilabs.
Recommended by Our Editors
10 Beyond-Basic Digital Photography Tips
The Best Video Editing Software for 2024
The Best 360 Cameras for 2024
Underwater housings are also worth thinking about if you already have a quality SLR or mirrorless camera. We haven't tested any, but brands like Aquatica, Ikelite, Nauticam, and Sea & Sea have earned solid reputations and sell housings for many popular cameras.
Best for Action
GoPro Hero12 Black
Why We Picked It
The Hero12 Black is hands-down the best action cam available. It records 5.3K60, 4K120, and 1080p240 video for versatile slow-motion, offers 10-bit HDR color, and keeps the action steady with class-leading Hypersmooth digital stabilization. The camera is also waterproof to 33 feet without a case, works with tripods and GoPro mounts, and includes front and rear color displays.
Who It's For
The Hero12 Black goes deep enough for snorkeling by itself and works with an optional case for scuba depths, making it a good pick for divers. It's also easy to mount to your boat, ATV, or surfboard for point-of-view footage. Some of its high-end video features may be overkill for casual use, so don't count out the Hero10 Black if you want a similar camera for fewer dollars.
GoPro Hero12 Black Review
Best Low-Cost GoPro
GoPro Hero10 Black
4.5
Why We Picked It
Quite simply, the Hero10 Black is the best value in the GoPro lineup. The camera is tough enough to go 33 feet deep without a case (an add-on is available for 196-foot dives) and offers both 120fps at 4K and 60fps at 5.3K for epic slow-motion shots.
Who It's For
If you don't need the absolute latest capabilities, the Hero10 Black is a fine choice. It doesn't have the HDR support of the Hero12, but its footage still shows excellent color and sharp detail. The small design enables mounting in hard-to-reach places, while its tough, waterproof construction means you can use the camera in nearly any environment.
GoPro Hero10 Black Review
Best for Low Light
DJI Osmo Action 4
Why We Picked It
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a small, capable camera from a company best known for its drones. It doesn't push as many pixels as a GoPro but supports up to 4K60 recording with sound and 4K120 slow-motion footage. Meanwhile, its large Type 1/1.3 sensor records brighter, cleaner video in dim light than the Hero12 Black. It's waterproof to 50 feet, so you can take it underwater or use it poolside without worry, while a 197-foot add-on case is available for scuba diving.
Who It's For
Vloggers and other creators who want a waterproof camera that performs well in low light should look to the Action 4. Its 10-bit video shows good color, and a D-Log profile means you can apply a color grade in post. Advanced features are available to pros, but the Action 4 also supports one-button operation for beginners.
DJI Osmo Action 4 Review
Best 360 Camera for Creators
Insta360 X3
4.0
Why We Picked It
Most cameras capture action from only one direction. The Insta360 X3 uses two lenses to snap a spherical picture, one that gets everything surrounding the camera in the frame. It's waterproof to 33 feet for underwater dips, as well as offers video, timelapse, and still capture modes. Importantly, the X3 is a fun camera to use, and its software makes it easy to reframe and edit footage in creative ways.
Who It's For
If you enjoy capturing all of your surroundings or using dual lenses for interesting shots and effects, check out the X3. Its all-around lens means that you can be the star of your underwater and travel videos, while the single-lens capture mode comes in handy for those times you want to stay out of the picture.
Insta360 X3 Review
Best for Macros
OM System TG-7
3.5
Why We Picked It
Now in its seventh iteration (but with OM rather than Olympus branding), the TG-7 is the best tough camera with a traditional point-and-shoot body. Its video quality doesn't match up to that of action cams, but its optical zoom lens with a fantastic macro function earns it a spot on our list for photographers who don't want to risk their smartphone during snorkeling or rock climbing excursions.
Who It's For
If you prefer a traditional point-and-shoot camera for photography, the TG-7 is the sole rugged option worth buying. It does a better job for macros than any action cam and most smartphones, as well as can survive at depths of up to 50 feet. Its photo engine doesn't match up with the latest iPhone or Google Pixel, however, so you might just use this one in especially rough conditions.
OM System TG-7 Review
Best for Deep Dives
SeaLife Micro 3.0
Why We Picked It
There aren't many consumer cameras that can go really deep underwater, so the SeaLife Micro 3.0's 200-foot depth rating is notable. The point-and-shoot is made for easy operation and has big buttons so you can operate it with dive gloves on. It snaps 16MP photos and records 4K or 1080p video.
Who It's For
Serious divers who want an easy-to-use camera should look at the Micro 3.0. The accessory system, which includes bright lights for deep underwater work, is also a plus.
Best Disposable Option
AgfaPhoto LeBox Ocean 400
Why We Picked It
If you're on a budget or enjoy an old-school aesthetic, a disposable, waterproof film camera is still an option. The AgfaPhoto LeBox Ocean 400 loads a 27-shot roll of ISO 400 color film and can survive pressure at depths of up to 16 feet.
Who It's For
Anyone, really. A point-and-click film camera's pictures give you the classic look that you won't get with digital. Just remember to get the pictures developed when you get home from your vacation!
More Waterproof Tech
(Credit: Angela Moscaritolo)
If you spend a lot of time underwater or in the pool, you should make sure your other technology is as waterproof as your camera. Check out our favorite waterproof headphones, speakers, and fitness trackers for more details. Many of our favorite smartwatches can go deep underwater, as well.
