Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case Review Best Underwater Protection

The Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case delivers unbeatable underwater protection, allowing you to dive up to 100 feet with confidence. Its rugged, crystal-clear housing ensures sharp footage and full button access, making it the ultimate companion for extreme water sports and deep-sea adventures.

Key Takeaways

• Superior waterproofing: Rated for depths up to 197 feet for reliable underwater use.
• Durable construction: High-impact plastic ensures long-lasting protection in harsh conditions.
• Secure fit: Precise design prevents leaks and keeps your camera firmly in place.
• Easy access: Clear housing allows full button control and visibility while recording.
• Versatile use: Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and extreme water sports activities.
• Quick installation: Snap-on design enables fast mounting and removal between shots.

Why the Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case Is a Game-Changer for Adventure Enthusiasts

Imagine this: you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, the sun glinting off the waves above, and you’re capturing every flip of a tropical fish, every sway of coral, and every smile from your travel buddy. But then—your heart skips a beat—your action camera slips from your grip, sinking slowly into the deep. Panic sets in. Will it survive? If you’re using the Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case, the answer is a confident “yes.”

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a content creator, or a parent documenting your kids’ first swim, protecting your camera from water damage is non-negotiable. But not all waterproof cases are built the same. Some leak, some fog up, and others make it impossible to use your camera’s controls. That’s where the Vivitar Waterproof Case steps in—not as a luxury, but as a reliable, affordable shield for your gear. After testing it in lakes, pools, and even a sudden downpour during a hiking trip, I can say with confidence: this case delivers on its promises, with a few caveats worth discussing. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know before buying—from build quality to real-world performance, and even how to avoid common pitfalls.

Design and Build Quality: Simple, Sturdy, and Built for the Elements

Materials and Sealing Mechanism

The first thing you notice when holding the Vivitar Waterproof Case is its solid, no-nonsense construction. Made from high-impact polycarbonate plastic, it feels durable without being overly heavy. The front lens is a thick, scratch-resistant glass—not acrylic, which is a big win for clarity. The back door uses a dual-latch system with a rubber O-ring seal, which is the gold standard for waterproofing. Unlike flimsy cases that rely on a single clip, this dual-latch design gives you peace of mind, especially when you’re 30 feet underwater.

During my testing, I submerged the case for 30 minutes at depths up to 10 meters (about 33 feet), and not a single drop of moisture got inside. The O-ring stayed clean and intact, and the latches clicked securely every time. Pro tip: Always inspect the O-ring before each use. A tiny hair or grain of sand can compromise the seal. Vivitar includes a spare O-ring in the box—a thoughtful touch that extends the case’s lifespan.

Ergonomics and Portability

At just 150 grams, the case is lightweight enough to toss in your backpack or attach to a floating wrist strap. The textured sides provide a non-slip grip, which is crucial when your hands are wet or cold. I’ve used cases that felt slippery as a bar of soap, but this one stays put. The top-mounted shutter button is large and easy to press, even with gloves on. However, the side buttons (for power and mode switching) are a bit stiff. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it takes a few tries to get the hang of it.

One minor gripe: the case doesn’t float. If you drop it in deep water, it’s going down unless you’ve attached a buoyant strap or wrist leash. I learned this the hard way during a kayaking trip—luckily, I had a floaty strap on my camera. For underwater photography, consider pairing the case with a floating hand grip for extra safety.

Waterproof Performance: How Deep Can You Go?

Official Rating vs. Real-World Testing

Vivitar rates the case for depths up to 30 meters (100 feet). That’s impressive for a budget-friendly case, but let’s be real—most users won’t go beyond 10–15 meters. I tested it in three scenarios: a chlorinated pool (5 meters), a freshwater lake (8 meters), and a shallow ocean reef (12 meters). In all cases, the camera stayed bone-dry. The lens remained fog-free, thanks to the airtight seal.

Here’s a tip: Before your first dive, do a “dry test.” Submerge the empty case in a sink or bucket for 10 minutes. If no bubbles escape from the seams, you’re good to go. This simple step saved me from a potential disaster when I noticed a hair caught in the O-ring during a pre-trip check.

Handling Pressure and Temperature Changes

Water pressure increases by about 1 atmosphere every 10 meters. At 30 meters, your case faces 4 times the pressure of the surface. The Vivitar case handles this well—no warping, no leaks. But temperature swings are trickier. On a sunny day, the plastic can expand slightly, and if you suddenly enter cold water (like a deep lake), the seal might weaken. I noticed this during a morning swim in a cold alpine lake. The case felt tighter when I got out, but no water entered. To avoid issues, acclimate the case to water temperature gradually. Don’t toss it straight from a hot car into icy water.

Another thing to watch: condensation. If you’re moving from a cold environment to a warm, humid one (like diving in the tropics), tiny water droplets can form inside the case. To prevent this, store the case in a sealed bag with silica gel packets when not in use.

Camera Compatibility and Ease of Use

Which Vivitar Cameras Fit?

The case is designed for Vivitar’s DVR 785HD, DVR 793HD, and similar mid-range action cameras. It’s not compatible with GoPro models or other brands, so double-check your camera model before buying. The interior has molded grooves that hold the camera snugly, preventing movement during high-impact activities. I used it with a DVR 785HD, and the fit was perfect—no wobbling or rattling.

One caveat: if your camera has a built-in screen, the case’s back window might slightly distort the view. It’s not blurry, but the edges can look a bit curved. For framing shots, you’ll need to rely on the camera’s LCD screen or a companion app (if your model supports Wi-Fi). This isn’t a flaw, just a limitation of the design.

Mounting Options and Accessories

The case has a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount on the bottom, which works with most action camera accessories—helmets, chest straps, handlebar mounts, etc. I paired it with a chest mount during a mountain biking session, and the camera stayed rock-steady, even over rough terrain. The mount points are reinforced, so you don’t have to worry about cracking the plastic.

For underwater use, consider adding a red filter or color-correction lens. Water absorbs red light, making footage look blue-green at depths beyond 5 meters. A filter restores natural colors, and Vivitar sells compatible ones. Just make sure they attach securely—I lost a filter once when a wave knocked it loose.

Image and Video Quality: Does the Case Affect Your Footage?

Lens Clarity and Distortion

The glass lens is a standout feature. Unlike cheaper cases with plastic lenses, this one doesn’t introduce chromatic aberration or blurring. I shot 1080p videos in a coral reef, and the colors popped—vibrant blues, rich greens, and even the subtle reds of a sea fan. The only minor issue was a slight vignette (darkening at the corners) in wide-angle shots, but it’s barely noticeable and can be corrected in post-processing.

For low-light conditions, the case’s lens performs decently. It doesn’t magnify light, so you’ll need to rely on your camera’s low-light settings. I shot at dusk in a lake, and while the footage was a bit grainy, it was still usable. Just avoid shooting directly into the sun—the glass can create lens flares.

Audio Limitations (and Workarounds)

Here’s the downside: the case muffles sound. Since the camera is fully enclosed, wind noise is reduced, but so is ambient audio. You won’t get crisp underwater sounds or clear voiceovers. For vlogs, this is a dealbreaker. But if you’re shooting action footage (like surfing or snorkeling), it’s less of an issue. You can always sync audio later in editing.

Pro tip: Use an external microphone if you need high-quality sound. Some users drill a tiny hole in the case and run a mic cable through it, but this voids the warranty and risks leaks. A safer workaround is to record audio separately with a waterproof voice recorder or a smartphone in a waterproof pouch.

Value for Money: Is the Vivitar Case Worth the Investment?

Price vs. Performance

At around $25–$35, the Vivitar Waterproof Case is a steal compared to premium brands (GoPro’s housing costs $50+). For the price, you get a case that’s 80–90% as good as the high-end options. The build quality, waterproofing, and lens clarity are impressive. The stiff side buttons and lack of floating capability are small trade-offs.

Compared to no case at all? It’s a no-brainer. A single water-damaged camera can cost hundreds to replace. This case pays for itself after one dive. I’ve used mine for over a year, and it still looks new—no cracks, no yellowing, and the O-ring is still pliable.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re on a tight budget, the AKASO Waterproof Case ($20) is a solid alternative. It’s rated for 40 meters and includes a floaty backdoor. But the lens is plastic, and the latches feel less sturdy. For serious divers, the GoPro Super Suit ($50) offers better durability and a built-in skeleton backdoor for audio. But if you’re using a Vivitar camera, it’s overkill—and unnecessary.

Here’s a quick comparison table of key specs:

Feature	Vivitar Waterproof Case	AKASO Waterproof Case	GoPro Super Suit
Max Depth	30 meters	40 meters	60 meters
Lens Material	Glass	Plastic	Glass
Floaty Backdoor	No	Yes	Yes
Price	$25–$35	$20–$25	$50+
Warranty	1 year	1 year	1 year

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case?

After months of testing, here’s the bottom line: The Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case is the best budget-friendly option for casual to mid-level adventurers. It’s not perfect—the stiff buttons and lack of floating capability are minor drawbacks—but it delivers where it counts: keeping your camera safe and your footage clear.

It’s ideal for:

• Snorkelers and swimmers who need reliable waterproofing without breaking the bank.
• Outdoor enthusiasts who hike, bike, or kayak in wet conditions.
• Parents and families capturing pool days and beach trips.
• Budget-conscious creators who want professional-looking underwater footage.

It’s not the best choice for:

• Deep-sea divers who need 40+ meter ratings.
• Vloggers who rely on crisp audio.
• Users with non-Vivitar cameras—check compatibility first!

My final tip? Pair this case with a floating wrist strap and silica gel packets. It’s a small investment that pays off in peace of mind. Whether you’re exploring a hidden cenote or chasing waves at the beach, the Vivitar Waterproof Case lets you focus on the moment—not your gear.

So, is it the best underwater protection for your Vivitar action camera? For the price, yes. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable. And in the world of adventure photography, that’s what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case truly waterproof?

Yes, the Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case is rigorously tested to provide reliable underwater protection up to 30 meters (100 feet), making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and water sports. Its secure locking mechanism and silicone seals prevent water intrusion.

What action cameras are compatible with this waterproof case?

This case is designed to fit most standard Vivitar action cameras, including popular models like the Vivitar 4K and Vivicam series. Always check the product dimensions to ensure your specific camera model fits snugly.

Can I use the Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case for non-underwater activities?

Absolutely. While optimized for underwater use, the case also protects against dust, dirt, sand, and impacts—perfect for hiking, biking, or extreme sports where your camera needs rugged defense.

Does the case allow full access to camera buttons and ports?

Yes, the Vivitar Action Camera Waterproof Case features precise cutouts and a responsive button design, enabling easy access to all controls and ports without removing the case. This ensures seamless operation during filming.

How durable is the Vivitar waterproof case for long-term use?

Constructed from high-quality polycarbonate and reinforced seals, this case is built to withstand repeated use in harsh conditions. Many users report lasting performance after years of regular underwater and outdoor use.

Does the case affect video or photo quality underwater?

No, the anti-reflective lens cover ensures crisp, distortion-free images and videos. The clear housing maintains full optical clarity, so your underwater footage remains vibrant and detailed.