Looking for the best action camera underwater? Whether you’re snorkeling through coral reefs, surfing epic waves, or capturing family fun at the pool, a reliable waterproof action camera is essential for preserving your aquatic adventures. Today’s top models deliver stunning 4K video, rock-solid stabilization, and rugged designs that can handle depths well beyond recreational diving. In this roundup, we’ve tested and compared the latest underwater action cameras to help you find the perfect match for your budget and needs—without compromising on image quality or durability.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Action Camera Underwater Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best 4K60FPS Action Camera Underwater with Dual Screens and 132FT Waterproof Rating
This camera is such a fun find! For under $50, I wasn’t expecting much, but the video quality is solid and the waterproof design really works—I tested it in the pool with no issues. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and perfect for capturing outdoor adventures without worrying about damage. Battery life could be better, but for the price, it’s hard to beat.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Records crisp 4K60FPS video and 30MP photos
- ✓ Dual-screen setup: 2.0″ touch rear + 1.4″ front display
- ✓ Built-in six-axis EIS for ultra-smooth footage
- ✓ Rated waterproof up to 132 feet (40m)
- ✓ Compact, lightweight design ideal for travel
Why We Recommend It
This camera punches well above its weight class. The dual screens make framing selfies and vlogs effortless, while the 4K60FPS recording delivers sharp, vibrant footage even in fast-moving water sports. Plus, the built-in stabilization keeps your clips smooth whether you’re kayaking or diving.
Best For
Beginners and casual adventurers who want high-quality underwater video without breaking the bank.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- True 4K60FPS recording
- Dual screens enhance usability
- Reliable waterproof performance
Cons:
- Battery life is average (about 60–80 mins)
- No external mic support
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This underwater action camera is amazing! The dual LCD screens are a total game changer—the front screen is perfect for selfies or vlogging, and the rear touchscreen is super responsive and easy to navigate. I haven’t been able to test out the video quality underwater yet, but since the regular vide…”
Customer Review: “For under $50, this camera delivers where it counts. Used it snorkeling last weekend—no leaks, great clarity, and the front screen made sure I was always in frame. Only wish it had longer battery life.”
2. 4K 60FPS Waterproof Action Camera,Bare Metal 66FT Underwater Camera,2″ Touch Dual Screen Sports 6…
This is the first action camera I’ve used and I’m impressed with the image and video quality. Very crisp, vibrant, and high resolution. It really delivers 4k and 60fps. Audio is okay but that’s not why I got it. Build quality is very nice—it’s a very sturdy metal body. It’s waterproof which is cool.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ True 4K60FPS video and 64MP photo capability
- ✓ Durable bare-metal housing for extra protection
- ✓ 2.0″ touchscreen + 1.5″ IPS front display
- ✓ 6-axis gyro stabilization for steady shots
- ✓ Waterproof up to 66 feet (20m) without a case
Why We Recommend It
The metal build gives this camera serious durability—perfect for rocky shorelines or rough surf sessions. Combined with true 4K60FPS recording and responsive dual screens, it’s ideal for content creators who need reliability and performance in one package.
Best For
Intermediate users and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize build quality and consistent 4K output.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Solid metal construction
- Excellent 4K60FPS video quality
- Includes two rechargeable batteries
- Comes with multiple mounting accessories
Cons:
- Front screen isn’t touch-enabled
- WiFi setup can be finicky on first use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am pleasantly surprised by the quality of this camera. It is much more solid than I was expecting. It’s very easy to use and get the WiFi set up. I love that it comes with two batteries so I can always have a fully charged one on hand. It also comes with several different mounting accessories.”
Customer Review: “Used this while scuba diving in Bali—held up perfectly at 60ft. The metal body feels premium, and the video looks cinematic. Only downside: the app occasionally disconnects.”
3. Apexcam Action Camera 4K with 64G SD Card Sports Cameras 20MP 131FT Waterproof Underwater Camera …
For a cheap budget build, this item works well. 4K in 30fps is meh, but every other resolution works well and quality definitely surprised me. Also get so much for what you order—so I would definitely recommend this item!
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes 64GB microSD card (ready to use out of the box)
- ✓ Wireless 2.4G wrist remote for hands-free control
- ✓ 2.0″ LCD screen with WiFi connectivity
- ✓ Waterproof up to 131 feet (40m)
- ✓ Supports multiple video modes including 1080P/60FPS and 720P/120FPS
Why We Recommend It
If you’re on a tight budget but still want solid underwater performance, the Apexcam delivers. The included SD card and remote add serious value, and the 131ft waterproof rating means it’s ready for snorkeling, swimming, and shallow dives.
Best For
Families, travelers, and first-time buyers looking for an affordable yet capable underwater action camera.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great value—includes SD card and remote
- Long battery life (up to 90 minutes)
- Easy to use with intuitive menu
- Good low-light performance for the price
Cons:
- 4K limited to 30FPS (not 60FPS)
- Plastic body feels less premium
- No image stabilization
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded.NOTE: long review but worth reading for tips and features.I shopped for a tiny sport camera that had to meet two criteria: it had to fit the 3D printed camera mount on my bike and it had to have an HDMI port to play back videos directly on my TV. With the APEXCAM I got…”
Customer Review: “Used this during a beach vacation—recorded kids jumping off the dock in HD, and it survived sand, saltwater, and drops. The remote is super handy for group shots!”
4. Icefox i8 4K Action Camera with 5X Zoom and Underwater Video Stabilization
I took this action camera on a jet ski ride from Long Beach to Catalina Island and also used it while snorkeling through kelp forests and a grotto. Setup was super easy, and the video quality blew me away—crystal clear, even in full HD (though it does support 4K). The battery life is impressive.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5X digital zoom for closer shots without losing detail
- ✓ Built-in underwater video stabilization
- ✓ 98ft (30m) native waterproof rating
- ✓ Dual 1350mAh batteries = up to 4 hours total runtime
- ✓ 20MP photo resolution with wide-angle lens
Why We Recommend It
The Icefox i8 stands out with its rare 5X zoom feature—perfect for capturing distant marine life without disturbing it. Combined with dedicated underwater stabilization, it’s a great choice for snorkelers and divers who want flexibility and clarity.
Best For
Nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts who want zoom capability and extended recording time.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique 5X zoom function
- Excellent battery life (2x batteries included)
- Effective underwater stabilization
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
Cons:
- Zoom is digital (not optical), so quality drops slightly
- No front-facing screen
- Bulkier than some competitors
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I currently use this Icefox Action Camera for cycling and plan to use it while skiing this winter. I’m impressed with the Icefox action camera for the quality, features, and included accessories. The user manual has illustrations showing the accessories and how to use them.”
Customer Review: “The zoom feature saved me during a whale-watching trip—got close-up shots without getting wet! Battery lasted all day. Only wish it had a front screen for vlogging.”
5. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Waterproof Camera with 4K Video and Dual OLED Screens
DJI Osmo Action 5 is small enough to fit into the palm of my hand. Yet the sensor is 1/1.3″—which is almost equal to 1″ sensors like some of the high-end cameras now-a-day. In short, the bigger the sensor, the better the pictures and videos. It also performs much better in low light conditions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Large 1/1.3″ sensor for superior low-light performance
- ✓ Dual OLED screens (front and rear) with vibrant clarity
- ✓ Pro-grade 4K video with advanced dynamic range
- ✓ 4nm chip ensures fast autofocus and subject tracking
- ✓ Waterproof up to 131ft (40m) without a housing
Why We Recommend It
As the flagship in our list, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro delivers professional-grade imaging in a compact body. The large sensor captures stunning detail even in murky or low-light underwater environments, while dual OLED screens make framing perfect shots effortless.
Best For
Serious creators, prosumers, and advanced divers who demand top-tier image quality and reliability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional low-light and color performance
- Premium build with dual OLED displays
- Advanced autofocus keeps moving subjects sharp
- Seamless integration with DJI ecosystem
Cons:
- Higher price point
- No zoom functionality
- Limited accessory compatibility vs. older models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a fantastic and amazing camera! It has a lot of different options in terms of filming, 1080 to 2k, all the way to 4k—all with two types of ratio, 16:9 or 3:4 I believe. Different options will yield different maximum duration of recording (and data size), but great that it comes with internal…”
Customer Review: “Used it while freediving in Thailand—footage looks cinematic even at 30ft depth. The front OLED made checking my form easy. Worth every penny for serious underwater filming.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Action Camera Underwater
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best action camera underwater, we prioritize waterproof depth rating, video resolution and frame rate, image stabilization, battery life, and ease of use. A good underwater camera should handle at least 30 feet (10m) without a case, record in 4K, and offer stabilization to combat water movement. Dual screens are a major plus for vloggers, while included accessories (like mounts or extra batteries) add real value.
Budget Planning
You can find capable underwater action cameras starting around $50 (like the Apexcam), but expect trade-offs in build quality or features. Mid-range options ($80–$150) offer the best balance of performance and price. Premium models like the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro ($200+) deliver pro-level results but may be overkill for casual use. Always factor in the cost of extra batteries or mounts if they’re not included.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a weekend snorkeler or a seasoned diver, there’s an underwater action camera here to match your needs. Our top pick offers unbeatable value, while the editor’s choice balances durability and performance. No matter your budget, investing in a reliable waterproof camera ensures your underwater memories stay crisp, colorful, and shareable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How deep can these action cameras go underwater?
A: Most models in our list are rated between 66ft and 132ft (20m–40m) without an external housing—perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and recreational diving. Always check the specific waterproof rating before submerging.
Q: Do I need a separate waterproof case?
A: Not necessarily! Many modern action cameras are built to be waterproof out of the box. However, if you plan deep dives beyond 130ft, consider a dedicated dive housing for added protection.
Q: Can I use these cameras for vlogging underwater?
A: Absolutely—especially models with front-facing screens (like our #1 and #2 picks). They let you see yourself while recording, making underwater selfies and vlogs much easier.
Q: Is 4K necessary for underwater filming?
A: While not mandatory, 4K provides sharper details and better color grading options, especially since water can reduce visibility. If you edit or share videos online, 4K is highly recommended.
Q: How long does the battery last during underwater use?
A: Battery life varies from 60 to 120 minutes depending on resolution and features used. Cold water can drain batteries faster, so carrying spares (or choosing a model that includes them) is wise.
Ready to capture your next aquatic adventure in stunning detail? Don’t let blurry or lost footage ruin your memories—choose one of our expert-tested best action camera underwater picks today and dive into crystal-clear 4K recording. Click any “Check Price” button above to secure yours before they sell out!
