Best GoPro for Underwater | 2022 Buyer’s Guide & Reviews
The best GoPro for underwater adventures needs to provide you with reliable performance and allow you to record in high definition. GoPro devices are popular with outdoor enthusiasts for good reason. Not only do they offer exceptional image stabilisation that accommodates more high-octane recording, they are also very easy to use and can be quickly mounted to a variety of outdoor equipment. Considering purchasing a GoPro for underwater use? Our guide breaks down the key factors to bear in mind when selecting one.
Photograph & Video Resolutions
If you are looking to record your underwater adventures, you will want a GoPro camera that captures images and video in high definition. The most recent GoPro models allow for high-definition recording in 1080p. The most advanced GoPro models will also allow you to capture still images in 20-megapixel resolutions. If you are looking to live stream your underwater adventures, you should think about purchasing the most recent additions to the GoPro line for full HD broadcasting.
User-Friendly Controls
If you are using a GoPro, you are likely to be undertaking some seriously energetic activities. Therefore, user-friendly controls are a must. GoPro cameras are ideal for capturing content when undertaking rigorous activities. The best models include a display screen at the front and user controls at the rear. This provides you with a quick overview of your captured content, along with one-touch controls so you can make quick adjustments to essential settings. Highly responsive touchscreens make it particularly easy to access your content and make adjustments when underwater.
Image Stabilisation
Although many action cameras provide you with some image stabilisation, GoPro devices go further. Image stabilisation is very important when recording on the go, ensuring your images are not thrown out of focus as you travel. This also makes it easy to snap photographs and time lapse sequences on the go. GoPro camera boast HyperSmooth technology that provides you with exceptional results when it comes to image stabilisation.
Content Storage & Streaming
If you are hoping to live stream your recordings, you will want a GoPro with a reliable wireless range that can transmit. However, if you are more concerned with capturing content to later review and upload, you should be fine with onboard storage. You can also make use of Cloud storage if you do not want to be restricted to finite storage media. However, you will need to have an active subscription to GoPro in order to take advantage of Cloud uploading and storage.
Best GoPro for Underwater | Reviews
In need of a GoPro for underwater use? Below are some of the best underwater GoPro devices currently available.
GoPro HERO9 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5K Ultra HD Video, 20MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
If you are looking to capture the best underwater imagery possible, the GoPro HERO9 is an easy choice. This waterproof camera will allow you to easily capture 5K video, allowing to maintain superior resolution, even when you zoom in on a point of interest. You can also capture high-resolution photos at 20 megapixel clarity. SuperPhoto technology is also on hand to ensure you always get the best image processing results. This GoPro is also very easy to use. The front of the device features a display, while the rear of the camera includes a touchscreen for easy operation. The touchscreen is noticeably larger than what is offered by previous generations of the GoPro HERO. Meanwhile, the large front display allows you to frame your images more easily.
If you want to stream your visuals live, the GoPro HERO9 is a good option. This device supports live streaming and can be used as a webcam. This device allows you to stream in full 1080p over social platforms, with HyperSmooth stabilisation technology on hand to ensure you are broadcasting smooth visuals at all times. TimeWarp 3.0 technology is also included. This feature allows you to record time lapses as you go, saving you the need to manually operate your camera. The GoPro HER09 is also built to a high standard and geared toward outdoor use. Not only is the outer housing very durable, the waterproof design means it can be submerged at depths of up to 33 feet.
GoPro HERO8 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 1080p Live Streaming Stabilization
If you are looking for a slightly more affordable alternative, the GoPro HERO8 is a good choice. This underwater camera allows you to record crisp 4K visuals, which is more than enough to capture stunning video. It also gives you some leeway when it comes to zooming, meaning you do not have to compromise too much on clarity when you zoom in on a point of interest when exploring underwater environments. The HERO8 will also allow you capture stunning still images. You can snap photos in 12 megapixel clarity, with the SuperPhoto feature automatically ensuring your images are processed correctly. HyperSmooth 2.0 technology is also on hand to ensure your video recordings and live broadcasts are as smooth as possible. Live streaming is supported at 1080p, while the HERO8 can also be used as a webcam device.
Unlike the HERO9, this GoPro device status indicator at the front, rather than a full live preview display. This may limit your use somewhat, but you still have the full functionality of a touchscreen at the rear. This GoPro also includes some useful additional features, such as a TimeWarp 2.0 function that allows you to automatically record time lapse image collections. You an also make full use of a night lapse mode. LiveBurst photography is also possible. As with any GoPro HERO device, you will need an active GoPro subscription in order to upload your content to the Cloud.
GoPro HERO7 White — Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 1080p HD Video 10MP Photos
If you want a budget-friendly underwater camera, the GoPro HERO7 is definitely worth considering. This rugged camera is built for heavy-duty applications. The durable housing and waterproof design mean you can use it at considerable depths without worrying about the internal technology becoming compromised. This is also very easy to use. The intuitive touchscreen means you can access all the features you want in moments. The available capture modes are streamlined of use, allowing to take beautiful images in high clarity with little effort. It is also easy to swipe between your captured shots and videos in seconds. This GoPro records in full 1080p HD which, as with other GoPro cameras in this list, gives you some flexibility when it comes to zooming. If you intend to use your GoPro as a video camera, you can also expect superb video clarity. It is also possible to shoot time lapse videos with the HERO7, with multiple shooting modes on offer. This camera is wifi and Bluetooth enabled, allowing you to connect to other device seamlessly to share or store files.
This compact camera is also ideal for those looking to capture underwater photos. With this new GoPro device, you can capture 10MP underwater photography with ease. It is simple to snap away as you capture underwater surroundings or take a selfie. You can also make use of a burst mode, allowing to capture 15 photos in a single second. In addition to good image quality, you can expect high-quality video. Essential video stabilisation functionality is provided, allowing you to record smooth visuals with no lag. This is particularly useful if you are looking to stream your recordings. This underwater camera also allows you to shoot vertically. This applies to both underwater photography and video recording. This is ideal for those looking to capture content to share on social platforms such as Instagram. A photo timer function is also provided here. This is particularly useful for those looking to take a selfie, or if you want to capture a group photo with friends or family.
GoPro Hero7 White — Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 1080p HD Video 10MP Photos
GoPro HERO7 Black — Waterproof Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K Ultra HD Video 12MP Photos 720p Live Streaming Stabilization
If you are looking for a quality camera with reliable dive housing to take with you when scuba diving, the GoPro HERO7 is definitely something to consider. Unlike the previous GoPro in this list, this HERO7 allows you to capture underwater video in stunning 4K. This impressive video quality means you can capture your underwater surroundings in incredible detail. This underwater camera will allow you to record beautiful videos at high frame rates, even when faced with low light conditions. It also means you can zoom in on distant objects for a close-up, without sacrificing on the quality of your recordings. This camera also offer exceptional image stabilization thanks to HyperSmooth technology. This will result in first-rate video recordings and will also benefit those looking to live stream their snorkelling or scuba adventures.
Underwater photographers will also enjoy what is on offer here. You can capture images in 12 megapixels, with a TimeWarp feature allowing you to record superb time lapse videos. This makes an ideal alternative to slow motion recordings. The combination of rugged underwater housing and impressive battery life means you can spend a great deal of time underwater as you record your surroundings, with the depth rating of 33 feet meaning you can descend deeper than with a standard underwater camera. This GoPro camera also features a SuperPhoto feature, which automatically applies things like tone mapping, white balance and HDR to your captured shots. The HERO7 also includes voice control functionality, allowing you to go hands free as you operate your device.
GoPro HERO7 Silver – E-Commerce Packaging – Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 10MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization
This GoPro HERO7 is a good option for those looking for an underwater camera that combines user-friendly operation and affordability. It also delivers exceptional video and still image results. With this camera, you can achieve glorious 4K video recordings. The high-quality video recording capability means every detail can be captured effectively, while also allowing you to zoom in on points of interest with compromising on clarity. You can also opt to capture time lapse videos for more social-friendly content. Still images can be captured in 10MP, with image processing automatically applied to ensure your underwater photos always look their best.
This durable camera has been engineered to perform well underwater. The waterproof housing as a depth rating of 33 feet, allowing you to explore more of your underwater surroundings. Intuitive touchscreen controls also makes it easy to access all essential features, with streamlined capture modes making this device even easier to use. You can also use the touchscreen to swipe between captured content in moments. This camera also offers voice control functionality. You can capture photos or videos purely by voice command alone, keeping your hands free for other things.
Our Pick of the Best Underwater GoPro Devices
If you can afford a slight premium, the GoPro HERO9 is definitely the best choice of underwater camera for underwater explorers. The big draw of this GoPro is that it allows you to record in incredible 5K clarity. You also have the option to capture still images with 20MP levels of clarity. There is also the handy inclusion of a front display, as well as a user-friendly touchscreen at the rear of the device. You also have a full suite of features including HyperSmooth 3.0, TimeWarp 3.0 and more to make it even easier to capture high-quality content.
A more budget-friendly option is the GoPro HERO7. This durable camera is suitable for use at considerable depths and records in full 1080p high-definition clarity. It also allows you easily capture 10MP images. However, it is not as user-friendly as the HERO9 and may prove too limiting for the scuba enthusiast.
If you want to minimise the cost even further, you may want to think about investing in a much older model. The GoPro HERO3 and HERO4 both have nice features and can picked up at very little cost, but you will struggle to capture high-quality content. Instead, consider later models like the GoPro HERO5 or HERO6. Regardless of which GoPro camera you do end up selecting, make sure you have purchased all the GoPro accessories you might need to capture the content you want.
