How to Choose the Best Waterproof Camera

Are you the kind of person who has always wanted to record yourself scuba diving or in having fun in the water? If your answer is yes, then you’re definitely going to want a waterproof camera.

Top waterproof cameras are made for use in all sorts of rugged conditions. From water to dusty beaches, these cameras stand tall compared to regular cameras, making them top picks for swimming, surfing or even having fun at the pool with family.

The market now offers numerous options for these gadgets, which may make the decision to intimidating. This article will help you choose the right waterproof camera among those that fit within your budget and preferences.

Why do I need a waterproof camera?

the best waterproof camera -- Insta360 X3

A waterproof camera is a type of camera that is resistant to water, dust, and more. This makes it the best companion taking amazing underwater footage of you snorkeling, surfing or just spending time at the beach. However, good waterproof cameras are not limited to water activities; they can also be used in situations that involve mud, rain, or any other wet conditions like hiking, mountain biking, or camping!

Still not convinced? Here’s the top situations where a waterproof camera stands out:

Water Sports: An enthusiastic surfer, kayaker, or even a stand-up paddleboarder may use a waterproof camera to film without risk of losing footage if the camera falls in the water. Most can be used in the depths without issue, too!
Beach Trips: For those who enjoy beach days, this type of camera comes in handy when they want to capture unforgettable moments without being worried about their devices getting destroyed by sand and water.
Outdoor Adventures: A waterproof camera can withstand harsh weather conditions from hiking under the rain to traversing muddy paths.
Family Fun: You could be playing with your children in the pool or having an adventure in a water park, all while capturing memories for the whole family!

What are the benefits?

There are numerous advantages of using a waterproof camera as compared to an ordinary one, especially when tackling the great outdoors. Consider these:

Water Resistance: The most apparent benefit of a waterproof camera is that it can… endure water exposure! Most Insta360 cameras can be taken into the water without issue, and this means you’ll capture breathtaking shots with ease.
Durability: In addition to being able to withstand water, these cameras are typically constructed in a rugged, tough manner. They can be dropped, knocked around, and mishandled making them perfect for outdoor events where accidents are more likely to occur.
Versatility: Waterproof cameras have been built with versatility in mind; they will allow you to capture images and make videos at various places irrespective of weather conditions. Whether you are out exploring a coral reef or walking through a thick forest, a waterproof camera caters for all these situations.
Peace of Mind: With this type of camera you can tackle adventures without having to worry about damaging your equipment all the time.

What to look for before buying?

your best waterproof camera -- Insta360 Ace Pro

Selecting a waterproof camera is based on a number of things to ensure that you get the right one for yourself. Some key factors include:

Waterproof Rating: Not every waterproof camera is made equal. Check its waterproof rating i.e. how deep it can withstand water exposure or for how long, as well as how deep it can go.
Housing and Build Quality: Go for cameras with rugged and tough housing that can stand drops, bumps, and other impacts; high-quality materials like aluminum or polycarbonate are known for their strength and durability.
Ease of Use: Durability matters in waterproof cameras however, they should be easy to operate especially when placed in difficult environments.
Image and Video Quality: For your photos to appear sharp, clear, and vibrant you need cameras with high-resolution sensors, advanced image processing capabilities, as well as features like image stabilization and low-light performance.
Accessories and Mounts: Look at the accessories and mounts available for the waterproof camera you want to buy. Some examples include underwater housings (for diving even deeper), floating grips, selfie sticks, and helmets that come with various mounts to easily use them with helmets or surfboards.
Battery Life: Look out for waterproof cameras with long-lasting batteries or those that can support external battery packs so that your adventures are not cut short by power.
Cost: Waterproof cameras have all kinds of prices, and therefore affordable options will always be there as well as professional high-end ones. Set aside a budget and get yourself a camera that has all the necessary features without having to rob the bank.

Best Waterproof Cameras of 2024

In the world of waterproof cameras, two models stand out as exceptional choices for capturing your underwater adventures: Insta360 Ace Pro and Insta360 X3.

Insta360 Ace Pro

Our newest action camera, Insta360 Ace Pro brings the best of action cameras to the forefront, combined with the latest in smart AI features. Fully rugged and waterproof, this camera stands ready to take on any adventure. One of the key selling points is its large 1/1.3" sensor and Leica SUMMARIT lens, allowing for unprecedented image quality and low-light performance. Awesome action, from sunrise to sunset!

Flip Touchscreen

The 2.4-inch flip touchscreen is what sets Insta360 Ace Pro apart from other cameras in the same category. It is when you are diving and want to capture something from an unusual angle or fast moving marine life that doesn’t give you much time to frame up your shot. The flip screen can be rotated completely giving more options for capturing that perfect moment.

Smart Features and Enhancements

Insta360 Ace Pro is equipped with several smart, built-in features to help you capture underwater action:

Clarity Zoom: 2x zoom without any image quality loss, ensuring that you never lose sight of your subject, like a jellyfish you've been tracking.
Pause and Resume Recordings: Great for vloggers or to keep your shots together in a single file.
Cancel Recording: If something suddenly gets in the way or a shot doesn't turn out as expected, you can cancel it and go again without the need to delete multiple files.
Gesture Control: Operate the camera from a distance with simple gestures, perfect for underwater shots where you can't reach the camera.

For more details and tips on using Insta360 Ace Pro as a diving camera, check out this article.

Insta360 X3

Insta360 X3 is a 360º game changer. A rugged, waterproof action camera that unlocks the world of 360 º video right in your pocket. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, it can withstand submersion up to 33ft (10 meters), making it the perfect companion for your water-based adventures.

360º Reframing

One of the standout features of Insta360 X3 is its 360º reframing capability. While you might not be interested in shooting immersive 360º content, this feature allows you to capture every angle without having to point the camera. Simply record, then use the app on your phone to reframe your video after the fact.

Super easy, and super effective! It’s as easy as mounting the camera on your surfboard or kayak, and reframing the water action once you’re back on land.

Invisible Selfie Stick

Another game-changing feature is the Invisible Selfie Stick. When you shoot with Insta360 X3 on a selfie stick, the stick will automatically be removed from the shot, making it look like your camera is on a drone or you have your own film crew! This is because the stick falls in the blind spot between the camera's two lenses. All you need to do is import your footage into Insta360 app, and like magic, the stick disappears.

FlowState Stabilization

Insta360 X3 is also equipped with Insta360's FlowState Stabilization, which ensures that your footage remains smooth and upright, no matter how you move on the water. Additionally, the built-in 360º horizon leveling further enhances the stability of your shots.

With a long-lasting 1800 mAh battery that provides up to 81 minutes of recording time at 5.7K@30fps, Insta360 X3 ensures that you can capture your adventures without worrying about running out of power.

For more details and tips on using Insta360 X3 as a waterproof action camera for water sports, check out this article.

Conclusion

The top rated waterproof camera can make a huge difference in your ability to take the best underwater photos and save unforgettable memories during all your water-related activites. If you are a lover of the beach or an avid water sports player, then settling on a dependable and fully featured waterproof camera like Insta360’s Ace Pro or X3 will revolutionize your photography and video production.

There are various considerations to be made when purchasing the best waterproof camera for your needs such as waterproof rating, housing quality, ease of use, image and video quality, accessories, battery life, and cost. With the right device in hand, you can begin planning for your next trip and make moments that will last forever.

Keen to keep up to date on Insta360 stories? Keep an eye on our blog and sign up for our mailing list.