10 Best Scuba Camera 2025 in the United States

The GoPro HERO13 Black is a high-performance action camera designed for underwater adventures, making it a strong contender for scuba enthusiasts. It boasts an impressive waterproof depth rating, allowing it to function effectively at significant depths without the need for an additional housing. This makes it a convenient option for divers who want to capture high-quality underwater footage without extra gear. The camera excels in image quality with its 27MP photo resolution and offers best-in-class 5.3K60 video capabilities, ensuring stunning and detailed visuals whether in photo or video mode. The addition of the new HB-Series Lenses enhances its versatility, catering to various shooting conditions and creative needs.

The camera's high resolution and video performance come at a cost. The battery life, while improved, can still be a limiting factor during extended diving sessions. It's advisable to carry extra batteries for longer dives to avoid interruptions. Weighing in at just 5.5 ounces and featuring a compact size, it is easy to handle and transport, which is ideal for underwater activities. The 2.27-inch screen size might be a bit small for some users, but it is adequate for framing shots and accessing settings quickly. Durability is one of GoPro's trademarks, and the HERO13 Black is no exception; it's built to withstand the rigors of underwater use and the occasional bump or drop.

Ease of use is another highlight, with intuitive controls and user-friendly menus, although new users might require a short learning curve to get accustomed to its features. In conclusion, the GoPro HERO13 Black is well-suited for scuba divers who prioritize high-quality video and photo capture, along with robust build quality. It’s a reliable choice for those looking to document their underwater experiences vividly and effortlessly.

The AKASO EK7000 is a versatile action camera well-suited for underwater adventures, capable of reaching depths up to 131 feet. It boasts impressive 4K video resolution at 30 frames per second and can capture 20MP still photos, providing high-quality images and videos that are significantly clearer than traditional HD options. The built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) ensures smooth footage even in fast-moving scenarios, which is a valuable feature for underwater filming where movements can be unpredictable.

Additionally, it supports 4X zoom in photo mode, adding flexibility to your shots. The camera includes a durable waterproof case, making it reliable for extreme environments and underwater activities. Its small size and light weight make it easy to handle and transport. The inclusion of a wireless wrist remote control offers added convenience, although it's important to note that the remote itself is not waterproof.

Built-in Wi-Fi and HDMI capabilities allow for easy sharing and editing through the AKASO GO app, although the Wi-Fi range is limited to 10 meters. The camera's battery life might require frequent recharging during long dives, and it does not come with a MicroSD card, which you'll need to purchase separately. In summary, the AKASO EK7000 is a durable and feature-rich option for scuba divers seeking quality underwater footage, but users should be prepared for some limitations such as battery life and the need for additional accessories like a MicroSD card.

The GoPro Hero12 Black is a strong choice for a scuba camera, especially for casual to intermediate divers. It is waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters), which covers shallow diving and snorkeling but may be limiting for deeper scuba sessions. Image quality is impressive, with 5.3K video resolution and 27MP photos, delivering sharp and vivid underwater shots. The camera’s HDR feature helps capture balanced lighting in tricky underwater conditions, and HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization ensures smooth video even during movement. Battery life is improved with up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at high resolution, supported by the included Enduro battery. In terms of size and weight, it’s compact and lightweight (weighing just 12 ounces), making it easy to carry and handle underwater. The touchscreen interface and wireless connectivity add to ease of use, allowing quick adjustments and remote control if needed.

The build is rugged, designed to handle extreme conditions beyond just water exposure. On the downside, the 10m waterproof rating might not satisfy serious scuba divers who go deeper, and the camera requires additional accessories for mounting on scuba gear. This makes it a versatile and high-quality action camera that performs well for underwater adventures within its depth limit.