How to choose the right underwater action camera:
Choosing the best underwater action camera necessitates careful evaluation of features built specifically for subaquatic use. Begin by checking the depth rating of the camera to ensure it meets or surpasses the depths you intend to investigate. To prevent leaks, look for solid waterproofing and seals. Choose a camera with outstanding low-light capabilities, as underwater environments can be difficult to illuminate. Consider picture stabilization capabilities to compensate for water currents and maintain steady filming. Consider the field of view, as larger angles are better for recording large underwater sceneries. Battery life is critical for long dives, so choose a camera with enough power for your underwater adventures. Furthermore, user-friendly controls are necessary, especially in difficult underwater conditions. Finally, look into available accessories such as dive housings and filters to improve the camera’s adaptability to different underwater scenarios. By putting these factors first, you can find an underwater action camera that excels at capturing the beauty of the underwater world.
GOPRO HERO 12 BLACK
The GoPro Hero 12 Black continues where the Hero 11 left off, Waterproof up-to 33 feet with improved battery life, intelligent stabilization, Log video compatibility, wireless mic support, and a tripod mount. It has everything we like about the Hero 11, plus some extras. However, there is one drawback: GoPro removed GPS capability from the Hero 12. When it comes to picture stabilization, which is perhaps the most crucial function in an action camera, the Hero series has always outperformed its competitors. The Hero 12 Black includes HyperSmooth 6 (GoPro’s picture stabilization software), which provides superior stability with less cropping. When you combine this with the significantly better battery life (and reduced overheating), the GoPro Hero 12 is our top option for most people.
DJI OSMO ACTION 4
DJI’s Action 4 is an excellent underwater action camera. It features an IP68 waterproof designation, the best magnetic mounting solution we’ve encountered, a menu system that makes switching between modes a breeze, and the resulting photographs and video are excellent. There are two areas where I believe the GoPro Hero 12 has an advantage. The largest is 5.3K video. The other is stability, specifically horizon lock, which I’ve found to be less reliable on the Action 4. That being said, this is an excellent camera that fits seamlessly into the DJI environment. If you have a DJI drone or DJI mics and plan to combine footage, I would choose this over the Hero 12 because DJI’s many tools work so well together.
INSTA360 GO 3
What it lacks in video and stabilization quality, the Insta360 Go 3 makes up for in versatility. The GO 3 (when taken out of the Action Pod) is waterproof up to 16ft (5m). The included Lens Guard must be installed on the camera for underwater use. The Action Pod is IPX4 water resistant only when GO 3 is installed. The core unit can magnetically attach to a variety of surfaces, which we found extremely useful during our review. It also comes with a slew of modular accessories, including a similarly magnetic Action Pod with a flip-out touchscreen.
The Go 3’s display makes it easier to use than the Go 2, especially when framing up vlogs. Even with a few connectivity issues, we found it responsive and less clunky than using a smartphone as a wireless viewfinder. However, we wish the Action Pod was waterproof like the Go 3.
INSTA360 X3
When handling even an action camera’s wide-angle lens becomes difficult, the Insta360 X3‘s 360-degree action camera can help. This almost magical camera can capture an image from a point within reach looking any direction you see fit, thanks to two back-to-back lenses and enough intelligence to eliminate a selfie stick from the footage.
The X3 is waterproof to 10 meters (33 feet). Please keep the following points in mind to ensure that your camera remains waterproof: Before using, ensure that the USB lock cover, battery lock cover, and battery rubber seal are all intact and functional.Vibrations, shock, or pressure applied to the camera may compromise its waterproofing performance. Second, when using in or near water, dirt, or sand, make sure to properly close the battery lock cover and USB lock cover (the yellow indication marks should not be visible and a clicking sound should be heard when they are closed correctly). Thirdly, before closing the battery lock cover and USB lock cover, make sure they are free of any foreign objects. Clean with a soft, dust-free cloth if necessary.
The only real concern is how exposed those glass lenses are when the camera is in use; the joy of re-positioning the camera angle after the fact can be hours of entertainment. 5.7K is adequate for sharing, but higher resolution would benefit professional work.
