Welcome to our comprehensive guide for the best waterproof action cameras in 2024. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a vlogger, or a casual user looking to capture memories in extreme conditions, our top picks and shopping tips will help you make an informed decision.
When it comes to waterproof action cameras, there are several factors to consider such as video quality, durability, stabilization, and ease of use. Our team has rigorously tested and evaluated various models to bring you the best options in the market.
In this article, we will discuss the top waterproof action cameras across different categories, including overall best, budget options, diving cameras, and more. We will also provide shopping tips to consider when purchasing a waterproof action camera. Stay tuned as we dive into the world of waterproof action cameras and help you find the perfect device to capture your adventures.
GoPro HERO10 Black: Ultimate Action Camera for Adventurers
HERO10 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Sc... -- 249(Amazon)
HERO10 Black- E-Commerce Packaging - Waterproof Action Camera with Front... -- 239.99(Amazon)
GoPro - Hero10 Black Action Camera -- 249.99(Best Buy)
Why We Picked It
The GoPro HERO10 Black stands out for its exceptional video and photo quality, powered by the revolutionary GP2 processor. It offers a significant leap in performance with 5.3K60 Ultra HD video, 23MP photos, and the most advanced video stabilization yet, HyperSmooth 4.0. Its waterproof design and versatile connectivity options make it an unparalleled choice for capturing life's adventures.
Who It's For
Perfect for adventurers, sports enthusiasts, and content creators looking for top-tier image quality and stabilization in a compact, rugged package. Whether you're diving into the ocean, hitting the slopes, or capturing fast-paced action, the HERO10 Black is designed to keep up. However, those planning to use it for prolonged high-resolution recording should be mindful of its battery life and potential overheating issues.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stunning 5.3K60 Ultra HD video and 23MP photo quality | ❌ Short battery life during intensive use |
| ✅ Advanced HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilization for smoother footage | ❌ Potential overheating with prolonged 5.3K recording |
| ✅ Waterproof up to 33ft without a case and versatile connectivity options | ❌ Price may be a consideration for some users |
DJI Osmo Action 3: Best Action Camera for Stabilized Footage
Osmo Action 3 Standard Combo, Waterproof Action Camera with 4K HDR & Sup... -- 199(Amazon)
DJI Osmo Action 3 Adventure Combo -- 299.99(Best Buy)
DJI Osmo Action 3 Adventure Combo, Waterproof Action Camera with 4K HDR,... -- 245(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The DJI Osmo Action 3 stands out for its advanced stabilization features, RockSteady 3.0 and HorizonSteady, ensuring smooth footage across dynamic activities. Its robust build quality makes it waterproof up to 52ft without a case, and it's designed to withstand cold temperatures, making it a versatile choice for adventurers. The front color touchscreen enhances the vlogging experience by allowing easy framing and immediate playback.
Who It's For
This camera is ideal for action sports enthusiasts, vloggers, and content creators who require a durable and reliable camera that can handle extreme conditions and deliver high-quality, stabilized footage. It's also suitable for underwater explorers due to its significant waterproof capabilities.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Advanced stabilization with RockSteady 3.0 and HorizonSteady | ❌ User interface may be challenging for some |
| ✅ Waterproof up to 52ft without a case and cold-resistant | ❌ Battery life could be improved |
| ✅ Front color touchscreen for easy framing and playback | ❌ No onboard storage; requires separate microSD card purchase |
Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition: Versatile Modular Camera for Creators
ONE R Twin Edition – 4K Action Camera & 5.7K 360 Camera with Interchange... -- 439.99(Amazon)
ONE RS Twin Edition – Waterproof 4K 60fps Action Camera & 5.7K 360 Camer... -- 409.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition stands out for its innovative modular design, allowing users to switch between a high-quality 4K wide-angle action camera and a 5.7K 360-degree camera. This versatility is complemented by its impressive FlowState stabilization, ensuring smooth footage across various conditions. Its waterproof feature up to 16ft with the mounting bracket, along with AI editing capabilities and the Invisible Selfie Stick Effect, make it a compelling choice for creators looking for flexibility and quality in their content creation tools.
Who It's For
Ideal for adventure enthusiasts, vloggers, and content creators who value versatility and quality in their footage. The Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition is perfect for those looking to capture dynamic action shots, immersive 360-degree videos, and anyone who appreciates the convenience of having two cameras in one compact, portable device. However, it may not be the best fit for individuals seeking a simple, one-click solution without the need for changing modules.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Interchangeable lenses for 4K and 5.7K 360 shooting | ❌ Modular design can be cumbersome for quick switches |
| ✅ FlowState stabilization for smooth footage | ❌ Potential durability concerns with frequent module changes |
| ✅ Waterproof up to 16ft and AI editing features | ❌ Higher price point compared to single-purpose cameras |
GoPro HERO9 Black: Best Action Camera for High-Res Recording
HERO9 Black - E-Commerce Packaging - Waterproof Action Camera with Front... -- 210.99(Amazon)
HERO9 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD, Touch Rear Screen... -- 320(Amazon)
HERO9 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD, Touch Rear Screen... -- 299.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The GoPro HERO9 Black is a top-tier action camera that offers professional-grade 5K video recording, enhanced stabilization with HyperSmooth 3.0, and a convenient front-facing screen for easy framing. Its robust design is waterproof up to 33ft without a case, making it an excellent choice for adventurers and content creators who demand high-quality footage in a variety of action scenarios.
Who It's For
The HERO9 Black is ideal for extreme sports enthusiasts, vloggers, and anyone looking to capture high-resolution photos and videos in dynamic environments. It's also suitable for live streaming and using as a webcam, offering versatility for different content creation needs.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 5K video and 20MP photo capabilities for stunning detail | ❌ Complex menu system may be challenging for some users |
| ✅ Front display and larger rear touch screen for intuitive control | ❌ Potential for overheating during extended 5K recording |
| ✅ Enhanced battery life and rugged, waterproof construction | ❌ Higher price point for full accessory kits |
Sony RX0 II: Best Compact Camera for Adventure Seekers
RX0 II 1” (1.0-type) Sensor Ultra-Compact Camera -- 698(Amazon)
Sony RX0 II 1” (1.0-type) Sensor Ultra-compact Camera DSCRX0M2 -- 699.99(Sony)
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX0 II Digital Camera -- 639(SSEPhotoVideo)
Why We Picked It
The Sony RX0 II is a powerhouse of imaging technology packed into an ultra-compact frame, making it an ideal choice for adventurers and creators who need a durable, high-quality camera that can keep up with their active lifestyle. Its 1-inch sensor and 4K video capabilities ensure professional-grade image quality, while its robust build allows it to withstand the elements and rough handling.
Who It's For
This camera is best suited for travel vloggers, action sports enthusiasts, and professionals who require a compact camera that doesn't compromise on image quality. It's also a great fit for underwater photographers and videographers due to its waterproof capabilities. However, it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget or for users who heavily rely on in-camera stabilization.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exceptional image quality with a 1-inch sensor | ❌ Higher price point compared to other action cameras |
| ✅ Durable design that's waterproof, shockproof, and crushproof | ❌ Lacks in-camera stabilization |
| ✅ Internal 4K video recording with pro features | ❌ Fixed 24mm F4 lens may not be versatile enough for all users |
YI 4K+ Action Camera: Best Budget 4K Action Cam
YI Action Cam 4K and gimbal -- 169.19(Etsy - fotomeile)
Why We Picked It
The YI 4K+ Action Camera is selected for its impressive ability to capture 4K video at a smooth 60 frames per second, which is a standout feature in its price range. The addition of electronic image stabilization helps to ensure that footage is smooth and clear, even during action-packed moments. This camera is a budget-friendly choice for those looking to record high-quality video without breaking the bank, and it comes with the added versatility of a waterproof case for underwater adventures.
Who It's For
This camera is ideal for adventure enthusiasts, vloggers, and budget-conscious filmmakers who require high-resolution video capture at a high frame rate. It's also suitable for divers and water sports aficionados when used with the waterproof case. However, it may not be the best fit for those who need a camera that's waterproof without additional accessories or for users who prioritize long battery life over video quality.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 4K video at 60fps for high-quality footage | ❌ Requires an external case for waterproofing |
| ✅ Electronic image stabilization for smooth videos | ❌ Battery life could be better |
| ✅ Affordable price with a waterproof case option for diving | ❌ Some may find the need for additional accessories inconvenient |
Olympus Tough TG-6: Rugged Adventure Camera
OLYMPUS TG-6 Red Underwater camera, Waterproof, Freeze proof, High Resol... -- 489(Amazon)
Olympus - Tough TG-6 Digital Camera (Red) -- 489(Amazon)
Olympus Tg-6 Tough Camera - Red + 32 GB Memory Card -- 473.99(Amazon)
Olympus Tough TG-6 Digital Camera (Black) -- 464.62(Target)
Tough TG-6 Waterproof Camera (Red) - Adventure Bundle - with 2 Extra Bat... -- 559.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Olympus Tough TG-6 stands out for its exceptional durability and versatility, making it an ideal companion for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its ability to withstand extreme conditions - being waterproof, shockproof, crushproof, and freezeproof - combined with high-quality imaging capabilities, including raw image capture and 4K video, positions it as a top choice for capturing life's adventures without the worry of damaging your equipment.
Who It's For
Perfect for outdoor adventurers, divers, and anyone who loves exploring nature's extremes. The TG-6 is designed for those who need a reliable camera that can endure challenging environments and capture stunning images and videos, whether underwater, on a mountain, or in a snowstorm. It might not be the best fit for professional photographers looking for interchangeable lenses and larger sensors but is ideal for amateurs and enthusiasts seeking a rugged, compact camera.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Waterproof, shockproof, crushproof, and freezeproof design allows for use in extreme conditions | ❌ Fixed lens limits flexibility compared to interchangeable lens cameras |
| ✅ High-quality imaging with raw capture and 4K video capabilities | ❌ Smaller sensor size may not meet the needs of those seeking the highest image quality |
| ✅ Versatile macro system and underwater shooting modes for detailed close-ups and vivid underwater photography | ❌ Higher price point compared to standard compact cameras, reflecting its rugged features |
GoPro MAX: Best Versatile Action Camera
MAX — Waterproof 360 + Traditional Camera with Touch Screen Spherical 5.... -- 399(Amazon)
GoPro MAX 360 Action Camera -- 499.99(GoPro)
MAX Waterproof 360 + Traditional Camera with Touch Screen Spherical 5.6K... -- 399(Amazon)
GoPro - MAX 360 Action Camera - Black -- 399.99(Best Buy)
MAX - Waterproof 360 + Traditional Camera with Touch Screen Spherical 5.... -- 399(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The GoPro MAX stands out for its versatility and innovative features, offering both traditional HERO-style video and immersive 360-degree footage. Its waterproof design, Max HyperSmooth stabilization, and variety of creative modes like PowerPano and Max TimeWarp make it a top choice for adventurers and content creators looking for a camera that can capture dynamic, high-quality content in a range of environments.
Who It's For
The GoPro MAX is ideal for action sports enthusiasts, vloggers, and tech-savvy consumers who value the ability to capture and share their experiences in 360 degrees. It's also great for those who appreciate having a rugged and waterproof camera that can handle extreme conditions. However, it may not be necessary for users who are only interested in traditional video formats or who prefer a more compact camera.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 360-degree video and traditional HERO modes | ❌ 360-degree format not needed for all users |
| ✅ Waterproof up to 16ft and rugged design | ❌ Bulkier than standard action cameras |
| ✅ Advanced stabilization with Max HyperSmooth | ❌ Higher price point compared to basic models |
DJI Action 2: Best Versatile Action Camera
Action 2 Dual-Screen Combo (128GB), Action Camera 4K + Dual OLED Touchsc... -- 299(Amazon)
DJI Action 2 Power 128GB Combo -- 249(B&H Photo-Video-Audio)
DJI Action 2 Power Combo (128GB) -- 299(DJI Official Store)
Why We Picked It
The DJI Action 2 stands out for its innovative modular design, allowing for versatile use in various environments, whether you're on land or underwater. Its magnetic attachments make mounting a breeze, and the RockSteady stabilization ensures smooth footage. The camera's waterproof capability and dual OLED touchscreens add to its appeal for adventurers and content creators looking for a compact and powerful action camera.
Who It's For
The DJI Action 2 is ideal for action sports enthusiasts, vloggers, and travelers who prioritize portability and versatility in their recording equipment. It's perfect for those who need a durable, waterproof camera that can easily adapt to different mounting setups and capture high-quality, stabilized footage on the go.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Modular design enhances versatility | ❌ Modular connections may wear over time |
| ✅ Magnetic attachments for easy mounting | ❌ Small size could lead to misplacement |
| ✅ RockSteady stabilization for smooth footage | ❌ Limited high-resolution recording time due to overheating |
AKASO Brave 7 LE: Best Budget-Friendly Action Camera for Adventurers
Brave 7 LE 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with Touch Screen EIS 2.0 Zoo... -- 139.99(Amazon)
Brave 7 Action Camera 4K30FPS 20MP with 64GB U3 MicroSDXC Memory Card, W... -- 179.99(Amazon)
Akaso Brave 7 Le 4K30fps 20MP Wi-Fi Action Camera Touch Screen -- 149.99(Walmart - ESWAP LLC)
Brave 7 LE 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with Touch Screen EIS 2.0 Zoo... -- 179.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The AKASO Brave 7 LE is a versatile and budget-friendly action camera that offers a range of features suitable for adventurers and vloggers. Its dual-screen design allows for easy framing of shots, and the camera's 4K video recording capability captures high-quality footage. The inclusion of electronic image stabilization ensures smooth videos, and its waterproof case allows for underwater exploration up to 131 feet, making it an excellent choice for diving enthusiasts.
Who It's For
This camera is ideal for action enthusiasts, travelers, and vloggers looking for an affordable yet capable action camera. It's particularly well-suited for those who engage in water sports or underwater activities, thanks to its waterproof housing. However, professional videographers or those seeking the highest image quality might prefer to invest in a higher-end model.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Dual screens for easy framing and selfies | ❌ Image quality may not compete with higher-end action cameras |
| ✅ 4K video recording with electronic image stabilization | ❌ User interface could be more intuitive |
| ✅ Waterproof up to 131ft with included case for diving | ❌ Limited advanced features compared to premium models |
Thanks for checking out the best waterproof action cameras of 2024! If you need more help or recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy shopping!