Underwater photography can be a daunting process. However, if you have the right equipment, taking crisp, clear videos while scuba diving is a breeze. That is where GoPro comes in.
There are quite a few underwater GoPros, and almost all of them provide you with great quality. However, the following options (which all come from the stunning HERO line) have fantastic features that separate them from the rest of the market.
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Who Should Get This
Any scuba diver can appreciate a good underwater GoPro. The devices work wonders at the most reasonable depths and deliver great picture quality in each shot. They are quite easy to get the hang of, and will instantly enhance your diving experience.
While deep divers will always be able to appreciate the ability to capture their long excursions, the models in this guide are particularly useful for more casual users who stick to more shallow terrain. As they can also shoot on land, the cameras make perfect companions to frequent travelers.
Best GoPro for Scuba Diving: Top Picks
Here’s a list of our top recommendations, along with a quick review of each GoPro so you get to know its pros and cons before making a decision on which one to buy.
1. GoPro HERO7 Black (Best Overall)
The GoPro HERO7 is a great multi-use camera that does well above and below water. However, there is a catch. The device cannot submerge on its own. Rather, it requires a Super Suit Dive Housing (also from GoPro) to get wet.
The GoPro HERO7 is a great multi-use camera that does well above and below water. However, there is a catch. The device cannot submerge on its own. Rather, it requires a Super Suit Dive Housing (also from GoPro) to get wet.Even so, that accessory turns it into one of the best diving cameras around. The device is able to go down deep into the water and comes with a bright 2-inch touchscreen display that is easy to use while swimming.
When paired with the Super Suit Dive Housing, this device allows you to capture underwater shots in stunning 4K HD. It also has an ultra wide angle lens, digital image stabilization, and is fully Bluetooth compatible.
What we Like:
- Affordable price
- Up to 30fps continuous shooting
- Ultra wide-angle lens
- Digital Image Stabilization
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatible
What We Don’t Like:
- Need housing suit to get full use
2. GoPro HERO8 Black (Runner-up)
The GoPro HERO8 is a camera that gives you options. It’s a great choice for people who enjoy time beneath the waves.
The GoPro HERO8 is a camera that gives you options. It’s a great choice for people who enjoy time beneath the waves. Not only does it shoot in 4k60 and 1080 video (perfect for clear underwater shots) but it also comes with SuperView to give you the best wide-angle shots.
The crisp picture quality looks good in any shooting environment, while the GP1 chip ensures quality shots each and every time.
The advanced video stabilization is incredibly important for divers, as are the special SuperView technology, 2-inch display, and 5GHz WiFi.
What we Like:
- SuperView provides great shots
- Extremely high video quality
- Advanced video image stabilization perfect for all environments
- Waterproof up to 33 feet
- Touch zoom
- Functional and easy to operate
What We Don’t Like:
- Not as durable as similar models
- Can overheat
3. GoPro HERO10 Black (Most Powerful Option)
The HERO10 is a diving camera capable of going down 196 feet (60m) with no issues. Beyond that range, it also offers a wide-angle view and can shoot incredible 5.3K videos.
The HERO10 is a diving camera capable of going down 196 feet (60m) with no issues. Beyond that range, it also offers a wide-angle view and can shoot incredible 5.3K videos. It has a great still shot thanks to the stunning 23MP resolution and is able to shoot in low-light environments due to its customizable exposure settings and Night Lapse functions.
Few GoPros have the underwater capabilities of the HERO10. This diving camera works wonders at a range of depths, thanks to the numerous compatible accessories and strong interior technology. And again, it can go down a staggering 196 feet underwater.
On the downside, since this is the latest version in the GoPro family, it’s also the most expensive one you can buy. If you have a limited budget, this one is perhaps not the best choice. Look for other models listed above.
What we Like:
- Waterproof up to 196 feet
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth support
- Wide-angle field view
- Night photo capabilities
- Slow motion playback
- 23MP + SuperPhoto, HDR, RAW
What We Don’t Like:
- Price is on the higher end
How to Choose a GoPro for Scuba Diving
Before making a purchase, take these factors into consideration. They’ll help you narrow down the choices.
Image Quality
GoPro cameras are known for their premium shooting capabilities, but not all of them hold up underwater. Some options are a bit blurry, while others lack great depth.
Always ensure the GoPro you take diving is able to shoot as well underwater as it can on land. A bit of quality difference is not the end of the world, but you want your videos to be as clear as possible.
Versatility
Versatility is a more subtle aspect to focus on when purchasing a camera, but it is vital to know what accessories you can use with your GoPro.
The devices are known for their mix-and-match capabilities, and that means you need to be able to switch add-ons in and out when you see fit. There are many ways to enhance your underwater experience. Make sure your camera can handle them all.
Functionality
Ensure you can easily use your camera before purchase. This is an aspect many people overlook when getting a new GoPro, and it can cost them down the line. There are many bells and whistles tied to cameras.
Though they might look great, you don’t want a model you aren’t able to operate. That does not mean you have to get the simplest model out there, but you should get one that is in your comfort zone.
Useful Tips and Resources
A camera is not useful if you don’t know how to use it. This handy guide from GoPro provides some great tips for first-time owners or divers who want to get into the world of underwater filming.
This amazing video expands on the above tips and gives even more ways to enhance your shots.
Final Thoughts
Scuba diving is an incredible experience. So much so that you often want to share it with other people. Taking crisp, clear videos of your excursions are the best way to make that happen.
While all of the GoPros in this article come from the same line, they have their own strengths and weaknesses. Pay attention to how they differ and then get the one that best suits your particular diving style.
