If you’re a passionate diver, you know that capturing the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world is a must. The GoPro Hero 5, despite being a few generations old, remains a fantastic camera for adventurers, especially when paired with the right accessories. Its compact size, impressive video quality, and durability make it a strong contender for underwater videography. But to truly unlock its potential for deep-sea exploration, you need more than just the camera itself.
That’s where specialized dive accessories come in. From robust waterproof housings to color-correcting filters and essential floating grips, these tools enhance your experience and ensure your precious footage looks stunning. Finding the best GoPro Hero 5 for scuba diving isn’t just about the camera; it’s about building the perfect setup around it. Let’s dive into some top-notch accessories that will make your underwater adventures unforgettable.
1. FitStill 148FT/45M Waterproof Housing for Go Pro Hero…
This FitStill waterproof housing is an absolute workhorse for any GoPro Hero 5 Black owner looking to take their camera beyond shallow waters. What truly makes it stand out is its robust build – significantly thicker and stronger than standard housings, designed to withstand the pressures of deep diving. With a large flat glass lens, it ensures your underwater photos and videos retain maximum sharpness and clarity, making it an ideal choice for serious divers who prioritize crystal-clear footage.
-
Key Features:
- Designed for GoPro Hero 7 Black, Hero 6 Black, Hero 5 Black, and Hero HD (2018).
- 0.4″ Bigger and 35% Thicker than standard housings for enhanced durability.
- Large Flat Glass Lens for maximum image sharpness.
- Excellent PMMA material, waterproof up to 148FT/45M.
- Upgraded waterproof sealing ring and tight buckle for effective leak prevention.
-
Pros:
- Exceptional waterproofing depth for most recreational dives.
- Thick, durable material offers superior protection against impacts and pressure.
- Flat lens ensures undistorted underwater visuals.
- Reliable sealing prevents water ingress effectively.
-
Cons:
- Not compatible with Hero 7 Silver/White editions.
- Adds significant bulk to the camera.
-
User Impressions: Users frequently praise this housing for its solid construction and dependable waterproof performance, often noting how secure their GoPro feels inside. Many appreciate the clear optical quality of the flat lens, making it a go-to for capturing vivid underwater scenes without distortion.
2. GEPULY Waterproof Housing Case with Diving Filters for…
The GEPULY Waterproof Housing stands out by offering a comprehensive solution for underwater videography, combining robust protection with essential color correction. This isn’t just a waterproof case; it’s a complete kit that includes four vital diving filters (red, magenta, light red, and a macro filter), ensuring your footage looks natural and vibrant at various depths and water types. Its rustproof stainless steel components also mean you won’t have to worry about saltwater corrosion, providing long-term reliability for your deep-sea adventures.
-
Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 5/6/7 Black/7 Black Dusk White and Hero (2018).
- Waterproof up to 147 ft (45m) with solid shell and tight buckle.
- Rustproof 316 stainless steel buttons and metal parts.
- High transmission tempered flat glass lens (98% light transmission).
- Includes 4-pack diving filters for color correction and macro shots.
-
Pros:
- All-in-one solution with included filters saves extra purchases.
- Filters provide excellent color correction for different water conditions.
- Rustproof materials ensure durability in saltwater environments.
- High-quality lens material for sharp images.
-
Cons:
- Still not compatible with Hero 7 White/Silver.
- May require filter changes during a dive depending on depth/water.
-
User Impressions: Divers love the convenience of having filters integrated into a reliable housing. The color correction capabilities receive high praise, significantly improving the look of underwater footage. The rustproof design is a definite plus for those who frequently dive in the ocean.
3. GEPULY 3-Pack Dive Filter (Red, Light Red, Magenta) for…
If you already own a GoPro Hero 5 and its Super Suit housing, or are looking for a dedicated filter set to complement your existing gear, this GEPULY 3-Pack Dive Filter set is an absolute game-changer for enhancing your underwater footage. These filters provide professional-grade color correction, specifically designed to snap onto your Super Suit housing, making them incredibly easy to use. With options for blue, green, and shallow waters, you can ensure your marine life captures are vibrant and true-to-life, removing that common blue-green tint.
-
Key Features:
- Specifically designed for GoPro Hero 5/6/7 Black/Hero (2018) Super Suit housing case.
- Professional color correction from 2 feet to 85 feet underwater.
- Includes Red, Light Red, and Magenta filters for various water types.
- Made of high transmission acrylic for clear photos/videos.
- Easy snap on/off installation; comes with cloth bag and safety tether.
-
Pros:
- Crucial for natural-looking underwater colors.
- Specific filters for different water conditions and depths.
- Easy to attach and remove from Super Suit housing.
- Includes protection bag and safety tether.
-
Cons:
- Only compatible with GoPro’s Super Suit housing (not 3rd party cases or directly on camera).
- Requires manually swapping filters for changing conditions.
-
User Impressions: Users rave about the significant improvement these filters make to their underwater videos, stating they are essential for anyone serious about underwater photography. The ease of snapping them on and off is frequently mentioned as a major convenience.
4. FitStill 196FT/60M Dive Housing Waterproof Diving…
For those using the more compact GoPro Hero 5 Session (or Hero 4 Session), the FitStill 196FT/60M Dive Housing is the ultimate companion for serious deep-sea exploration. Its impressive 60-meter (196 feet) waterproof rating means you can push the limits of recreational diving without a worry. Beyond its depth capabilities, the use of stainless steel hardware prevents rusting in saltwater, and the high light transmission PMMA material ensures your footage remains incredibly clear and vivid, even at significant depths. This makes it an excellent choice for a robust and reliable GoPro Hero 5 for scuba diving setup.
-
Key Features:
- Specifically designed for GoPro Hero 5 Session and Hero 4 Session.
- Stainless steel hardware to prevent rusting in the sea.
- Waterproof up to 60M/196FT with upgraded sealing and tight buckle.
- Large Flat Glass Lens for maximum image sharpness.
- Excellent PMMA material with 98.99% light transmission.
-
Pros:
- Exceptional depth rating for advanced diving.
- Rust-resistant materials ensure longevity in marine environments.
- High light transmission provides bright, clear footage.
- Reliable protection for the smaller Session models.
-
Cons:
- Only compatible with Session models, not the Black editions.
- Touchscreen functionality is disabled when in housing.
-
User Impressions: Session users consistently praise this housing for its deep-diving capabilities and the peace of mind it provides. The rust-proof design is highly appreciated, and many note the fantastic clarity of the footage captured through its lens.
5. Floating Hand Grip Waterproof Monopod for GoPro Hero 13…
While a waterproof housing protects your GoPro, this Floating Hand Grip is your insurance against losing it to the depths. Its primary feature is its buoyant design, which keeps your GoPro afloat on the surface should it slip from your grasp – a true lifesaver for any water activity. Beyond preventing loss, the textured non-slip EVA grip offers incredible stability for shooting, reducing shaky footage and allowing you to capture smooth, professional-looking video. Plus, its hollow compartment can even be used for neutral buoyancy during scuba diving, adding a versatile dimension to your best GoPro Hero 5 for scuba diving setup.
-
Key Features:
- Floats GoPro cameras to prevent loss in water.
- Bright color cup for easy visibility and retrieval.
- Textured EVA non-slip grip for secure holding and comfort.
- Multi-purpose hollow compartment for storage or neutral buoyancy.
- Pocket-size (7 inches, under 80 grams) and lightweight.
- Compatible with a wide range of GoPro models including Hero 5 Session, Hero 5 Black.
-
Pros:
- Prevents camera loss – crucial for open water.
- Improves stability for smoother video capture.
- Versatile hollow compartment for buoyancy or dry storage.
- Lightweight and portable for easy transport.
-
Cons:
- Not a deep-diving housing itself (requires a separate waterproof case for deep dives).
- Might be too short for some selfie angles.
-
User Impressions: This grip is overwhelmingly popular among water sports enthusiasts. Users frequently highlight its buoyancy as a critical feature, saving their cameras from being lost countless times. The comfortable grip and improved stability for shooting are also highly appreciated.
6. SOONSUN Waterproof Case for GoPro Hero 7/6/5 Black & Hero…
The SOONSUN Waterproof Case is a fantastic choice for divers who value convenience alongside serious protection. What sets it apart is its “no need to remove lens cover” design, allowing you to simply pop your GoPro Hero 5 Black directly into the housing without any fiddling. This saves precious time when you’re eager to get into the water. Rated for depths up to 45 meters (147 feet), it’s perfect for most recreational scuba diving, and the crystal-clear flat glass lens ensures your footage is sharp and vibrant, both above and below the surface.
-
Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 5/6/7 Black & Hero (2018).
- Waterproof up to 45 meters (147 feet) for deep diving.
- High-transparency large flat tempered glass lens for maximum sharpness.
- Easy to use – no need to remove camera lens cover.
- Package includes waterproof case, thumbscrew, quick release buckle, silicone lens cap, and anti-fog inserts.
-
Pros:
- Extremely convenient ‘no lens cover removal’ design.
- Excellent waterproof depth for recreational diving.
- High optical clarity from the flat lens.
- Includes useful accessories like anti-fog inserts.
-
Cons:
- Not compatible with Hero 7 Silver/White.
- Touchscreen cannot be used when in the housing.
-
User Impressions: Many users praise this case for its hassle-free setup and reliable waterproofing. The ability to directly insert the GoPro without removing its built-in lens cover is a frequently mentioned favorite feature, making it a highly practical accessory for frequent use.
7. OKFUN 60M/196FT Waterproof Housing Case for Go Pro Hero…
The OKFUN Waterproof Housing Case is built for serious depth, offering an impressive 60-meter (196 feet) waterproof rating for your GoPro Hero 5 Black. What makes it particularly noteworthy is its integrated design for easy installation and removal, coupled with a double-lock system that provides an extra layer of security against accidental opening – a crucial feature when you’re far beneath the waves. Its large flat glass lens ensures high-definition shooting, preserving the clarity and detail of your underwater explorations, making it a reliable pick for the best GoPro Hero 5 for scuba diving adventures.
-
Key Features:
- Custom design compatible with GoPro Hero HD (2018)/Hero 7 Black/ Hero 6 Black/ Hero 5 Black.
- Easy installation with an integrated design.
- Waterproof up to 60M/196FT with double lock for security.
- Large flat glass lens for high-definition shooting.
- Includes quality service guarantee.
-
Pros:
- Excellent deep-diving capability (60M/196FT).
- Enhanced security with double-lock system.
- Integrated design for easy camera placement.
- Guaranteed HD shooting with a flat lens.
-
Cons:
- Not compatible with Hero 7 Silver/White.
- Touchscreen is disabled when the housing is installed.
-
User Impressions: Users highly rate this housing for its robust build and the confidence it inspires when diving to greater depths. The double-lock feature is frequently highlighted as a comforting safety measure, and the clarity of underwater footage is consistently praised.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about GoPro Hero 5 for Scuba Diving
Q1: Do I need a special case for my GoPro Hero 5 for scuba diving?
A1: Yes, absolutely! While the GoPro Hero 5 Black is natively waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) without a case, this is only suitable for snorkeling or very shallow free diving. For true scuba diving, you need a dedicated waterproof housing designed for deeper depths (typically 130-200 feet or 40-60 meters) to protect your camera from pressure and leaks.
Q2: What’s the difference between a flat lens and a dome lens on a waterproof housing?
A2: A flat lens housing is designed for maximum sharpness underwater, preventing image distortion common with the GoPro’s natural wide-angle lens in water. A dome port (dome lens), on the other hand, is generally used for split-level shots (half in, half out of the water) as it corrects the refraction that causes blur when using a wide-angle lens partially submerged. For pure underwater photography, a flat lens is usually preferred for clarity.
Q3: Why do I need color correction filters for underwater videography?
A3: Water absorbs different colors of light at varying depths. Red light is absorbed first, then orange, yellow, and green. This is why underwater footage often looks very blue or green. Color correction filters (red, magenta, light red) help restore the natural colors by adding back the spectrum of light that has been absorbed, making your footage look vibrant and true-to-life.
Q4: How do I prevent fogging inside my GoPro dive housing?
A4: Fogging is caused by temperature differences between the inside and outside of the housing, leading to condensation. To prevent this, use anti-fog inserts (often included with housings or sold separately) inside the housing. You can also try cooling your camera and housing before diving, and ensuring the housing is completely dry before sealing it.
Q5: Is a floating hand grip really necessary for scuba diving?
A5: While not strictly necessary for the camera’s function, a floating hand grip is a highly recommended accessory. It prevents your GoPro from sinking if you accidentally let go of it, making retrieval much easier, especially in deep or murky waters. Some even allow for neutral buoyancy, which can be helpful for stable shooting underwater.
Q6: Can I use the touchscreen of my GoPro Hero 5 when it’s in a dive housing?
A6: Unfortunately, no. Most deep-diving waterproof housings for the GoPro Hero 5 (and other models) disable touchscreen functionality once the camera is enclosed. You’ll need to control the camera using its physical buttons on the housing.
Q7: How do I maintain my GoPro dive housing after a saltwater dive?
A7: After every saltwater dive, it’s crucial to rinse your housing thoroughly with fresh water to remove any salt residue. Pay special attention to the buttons and sealing areas. Let it air dry completely before storing. Regularly inspect the O-ring for any debris, cracks, or wear, and lightly lubricate it with silicone grease (not petroleum-based products) to maintain its seal.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best GoPro Hero 5 for scuba diving really comes down to equipping your trusty action camera with the right accessories. From rugged waterproof housings that let you plumb the depths with confidence, to essential color correction filters that bring marine life to vibrant life, and even simple floating grips that save your investment from disappearing, each accessory plays a vital role. By selecting a few key pieces from the list above, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning, professional-quality underwater footage that truly showcases the magic beneath the waves. Dive safe, and happy filming!
