Last updated on June 23rd, 2020 at 11:15 am
11 Best Waterproof Vlogging Cameras
If you’re looking for a durable waterproof vlogging camera, we have just the right list of products prepared just for you.
Top Pick
- Can record 4K UHD videos up to 60fps.
- Can record slow motion videos in 1080p up to 240fps
- Features a touch screen
- Rugger + Waterproof camera which means it can handle wear and tear.
Budget Pick
- Captures spherical 5.2K footage @ 30 fps and 3K footage @ 60 fps.
- Overcapture lets u create standard 1080p footage from spherical 5.2K footage.
- Has built it gimbal-like stabilization, better than any smartphone
Best Value To Money
- Three different rigs are available to buy with flashlights attached.
- 1” 20 mp sensor produces great images
- A variety of underwater lenses available.
- Shoots RAW images
Photography enthusiasts love to take their cameras everywhere. Most DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras are susceptible to extreme climatic conditions and are fragile. Fortunately, there is a whole tier of cameras and photography products tailored to your needs.
In this article, we will be evaluating our top picks for the best underwater vlogging camera.
Our list consists of the very expensive cameras for enthusiasts as well as some of the inexpensive ones.
There are a few things that make a great camera, but a waterproof vlogging camera needs to pack a few more features to work well.
Our list consists of cameras that are well regarded by professionals and have the best customer reviews. Check out our list:
List of Best WaterProof Vlogging Camera
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1.Leica X-U (Typ 113) Underwater Digital Camera
The first waterproof vlogging camera in our list is from the oldest camera company that has pioneered in manufacturing excellent photography gear.
The Leica X-U is perhaps the most capable underwater camera with picture quality much superior to anything on the market.
It uses 16.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor and Summilux 23mm f/1.7 ASPH. Lens to produce the results.
Moreover, with its robust build quality, dust & shock resistance and up to 49ft of water resistance you can be sure that it will perform under the most extreme conditions.
But all that comes at a cost. At a price tag north of 2500$, this camera is for select few enthusiasts or professionals. It is also not as portable or small as some of the other cameras in our list. Click here to see the image quality of the Leica X-U for yourself.
Why is Leica X-U (Typ 113) our top pick?
Performance wise, the Leica X-U is the best of the bunch. According to pcmag, you should “give the Leica consideration if you’re after the more detailed images that a large image sensor delivers—just be prepared to pay for it.”
If you’re willing to pay the price, this could very well be the best waterproof vlogging camera for you
The camera sure is much more expensive than its competitors, but its superior image quality, optimal performance, and SLR sized sensor makes it a strong competitor.
Pros
- The best waterproof vlogging camera in terms of image quality.
- Has robust build quality and can perform well under harsh conditions.
- This camera is waterproof up to a depth of 15 m for 60 minutes.
- Features Anti-slip rubber exterior for secure grip and easy handling.
- Body is paired with a renowned 35 mm focal length lens with a manual focus ring.
- Shoots in RAW format
- Comes with a built-in flash
- Dustproof and shockproof camera
- Features a 3 inch screen.
Cons
- Very expensive for most consumers
- Not the smallest, lightest, or the most compact camera in the market.
- The size and protruding lens make it unsuitable as an action camera
- Can only record up to 1080p, which is a shortcoming for a camera worth more than $2500.
- Does not have a viewfinder.
- Does not have Wi-Fi
2.GoPro HERO7 Black — Waterproof Digital Action Camera
The GoPro HERO7 Black is certainly the most popular and well known action camera on our list.
That is due to its size, image quality, accessories, and features.
Its price tag is affordable for most people looking to buy an underwater vlogging camera and offers a plethora of features that make editing pictures and videos easy. Check out this video by Matti Haapoja, one of the most popular canadian YouTube vloggers.
The unique selling point of this camera is surely the Hypersmooth stabilization, which produces excellent smooth footage.
Apart from a few quirks here and there such as less than perfect voice-command function and unresponsive touchscreen in certain situations, this camera really has no major flaws.
Why is the GoPro HERO7 Black our second choice?
According to TechRadar, “minor niggles aside, the GoPro Hero 7 Black is certainly the best action camera you can buy right now.“
For the money, you get a plethora of features, accessibility, and intuitiveness that makes shooting videos easy. Due to these reasons, this is the second best YouTube waterproof camera pick in our list.
Pros
- Great value. Affordable for most people.
- Can record 4K UHD videos up to 60fps.
- Can record slow motion videos in 1080p up to 240fps
- Features a touch screen
- Uses best in class Hypersmooth image stabilization technology.
- Packed with features such as Wi-fi and Bluetooth.
- Offers in-camera live streaming option and saves high resolution videos to SD card.
- Offers various useful in camera editing options such as timewarp and SuperPhoto
- Rugger + Waterproof camera which means it can handle wear and tear.
- One of the most lightweight and compact cameras.
Cons
- Shoots wide angle, the frame becomes distorted.
- Screen size is small due to compact size.
- Waterproof up to only 10m.
- Not a waterproof vlogging camera with flip screen.
3. Sony RX0 II 1” (1.0-type) Sensor Ultra-Compact Camera
The RX0 II is the latest iteration of Sony’s highly compact action camera. It is a direct competitor to the GoPro HERO7 and comes loaded with some serious features.
This camera is one of the few waterproof vlogging cameras with flip screen available.
It offers premium imaging in a compact size that can be tucked or mounted anywhere with ease.
It comes packed with Large 1” (1.0-type) stacked back illuminated Exmor RS image sensor with BIONZ X image processing engine.
With its 15.3 mp images and super fast sensor, it can shoot sharp images at up to 16fps.
The RX0 II has taken the action camera segment by storm, and impressed professional YouTubers such as Sara Dietschy
With its exceptional video, image, and audio quality, this is a great option. But what makes it the best option for vloggers is that it is a waterproof vlogging camera with flip screen.
Why is the Sony RXO II our third pick?
The Sony RX0 II, apart from being a waterproof vlogging camera with flip screen, packs a ton of features as well as superior image quality. Stefan Etienne from The Verge says “At $700, it’s also pricey for an action camera. But if you go through the specs, the RX0 II sounds like it might just be worth it.”
Pros
- Can manage super-fast readout speeds.
- The Premium sensor allows for noise reduction at higher ISO settings.
- One of the few waterproof vlogging cameras with flip screen.
- Records 4K UHD videos with image stabilization at 30fps.
- Shoots 1080p slow motion videos at 120 fps.
- Matchbox sized durable Duralumin, water/shock/crushproof body.
- 15.3 mp images at up to 16fps.
- Allows you to control five RX0 II’s wirelessly.
Cons
- An expensive option for an action camera
- Rated for depth of only 10 m underwater
- Features a small screen size.
4. Olympus TG-870 Tough Waterproof Digital Camera
This camera is a promising offering from Olympus.
It features a 16MP 1/2.3″ BSI CMOS Sensor, a 21-105mm focal length lens and comes with a built-in flash for macro photography. Suffice to say its a capable camera.
But there’s more. It also comes loaded with other features such as Wi-Fi, GPS, compass, manometer and various other gauges.
It can withstand temperatures as low as 14 f( -10 C), is shockproof from 7 m height, waterproof up to 50 ft (15m) and crushproof up to 220 pounds (100 kgf) of force.
But what makes it the best-suited camera for vlogging is its flip screen that allows you to film yourself with ease. In our list, this is the best cheap waterproof vlogging camera with flip screen
According to Tom’s Guide, ”itꞌs a great camera for your outdoor adventures”
Although this camera features a flip screen, if you want a bit more flexibility and 4K video recording, check out the next camera on our list.
Why is the Olympus TG-870 Tough our fourth pick?
As a waterproof vlogging camera with a flip screen, this camera deserves a spot on the top of this list. It is due to its limitations in 4K video and RAW images that we have bumped this down to the fourth spot. Check out this review of the Olympus TG-870 to learn more about its features and see whether it’s the best YouTube waterproof camera for you.
Pros
- Waterproof vlogging camera with flip screen that’s ideal for vlogging
- Reasonable price and provides great value
- Shoots sharp 16 mp pictures.
- Offers onboard Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons
- Shoots only 1080p 60 fps video, whereas similarly priced options shoot in 4K.
- Does not come with a deep water case
- Has no option to shoot RAW images
5. Olympus Tough TG-6 Waterproof Camera
Our list so far has consisted of well rounded waterproof cameras that are compact, portable, and ideal for vloggers who make action-oriented content. But the Olympus Tough TG-6 is a whole other category. It is a digital camera with some real underwater shooting potential.
The Olympus TG-6 is the successor to long-reigning TG-5 and TG-4 in the underwater camera category.
Its long list of features is a handful. It lets you shoot 12 mp RAW images, record 4K UHD video at 30 fps and 1080p video at 60 fps.
The Olympus TG-6 performs really well, it also comes with a case that extends its range to 45m underwater. Moreover, it comes with other accessories such as fisheye lens converter as well as a telephoto lens. Also, it has a plethora of sensors such as GPS, barometer, thermometer, and compass for all athletes and adventurers out there.
Overall, the Olympus TG-6 is a worthy contender for the best cheap waterproof vlogging camera.
But there are a few things you that this camera falls behind in. It does not have ports for external audio that limit its ability as the best YouTube waterproof camera.
Why is the Olympus TG-6 our fifth pick?
The Olympus TG-6 is an excellent camera intended for underwater use that provides great value. This review shows exactly where it shines.
According to Wired magazine, “If you want beautiful underwater images without the sticker shock of a DSLR, the TG-6 will not disappoint.”
Because of its low price tag, and good enough performance, this could be a decent waterproof camera for YouTube and is, therefore, our fifth pick.
Pros
- An inexpensive camera that provides great value.
- Rugged and robust, built to withstand wear and tear.
- Waterproof up to 15 m which can be extended to 45 m with a case
- Shoots 4K 30fps video
- Shoots 12 mp RAW images
Cons
- Lacks image stabilization
- It is not a waterproof vlogging camera with a flip screen
- Does not have an audio jack for external audio
6.Nikon W300 Waterproof Underwater Digital Camera
The W300 is Nikon’s latest waterproof vlogging camera. It Features a body similar to digital point and shoots but goes beyond to make it rugged.
It comes with all the latest features that we’ve come to expect built in.
Moreover, it has various editing modes baked into the camera OS to make editing easier for you. These features are a huge plus if you’re looking for a waterproof camera for vlogging.
The feature that sets it apart from the competition is that it’s waterproof up to 30 m underwater.
This is what Trusted Reviews had to say about it, “The W300 is Nikon’s most rugged compact camera, a pocket-sized point-and-shoot designed to withstand almost anything life can throw at it.”
With decent performance under good lighting conditions, high-resolution video, and inexpensive pricing, this could be the best cheap waterproof vlogging camera available.
Why is the Nikon W300 our sixth choice?
The Nikon W300 is a bargain with all its features and accessories. It is also inexpensive. But it lacks a flip screen and has poor low light performance. It is, therefore, our sixth pick, but it can be the best YouTube waterproof camera depending on your needs and budget. Check out its review here to see is it is the right choice for you.
Pros
- Waterproof up to 30 m, shockproof and dustproof
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth come built-in
- Features various gauges and meters such as GPS, eCompass, altimeter, depth gauge and more
Cons
- Shoots in 4k UHD resolution
- Does not shoot RAW images
- Poor low light performance when compared with the competition
Must Check Best Nikon Camera for Vlogging
7.Fujifilm FinePix XP130 Waterproof Digital Camera
Fujifilm FinePix XP130 is their latest iteration in the XP lineup of a waterproof vlogging camera. This camera features a promising list of features and comes at a fraction of the cost of some of the other cameras in our list. It certainly is one of the cheapest waterproof cameras and could be the best cheap waterproof vlogging camera for you.
For the price you pay, you get average image quality and robust build quality.
The XP-130 will survive most harsh conditions but is a little light on the features when compared to other rugged cameras from well-known brands.
About the Fujifilm FinePix XP-130, Trusted Reviews say, “If you’re looking for a cheap camera that can be used in the swimming pool, sea or while white water rafting then you should certainly consider the XP130”
Why is the Fujifilm FinePix XP130 our seventh pick?
This camera will work fine as a rugged camera, but there are alternatives that have superior image quality than the Fujifilm FinePix XP130. Learn more about its capabilities in this blogger’s review here to see if this is the best YouTube waterproof camera for you.
Pros
- 16.4 mp sensor produces sharp high-resolution images
- Comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity.
- Waterproof up to 20 m (60ft)
- Inexpensive and affordable than other rugged cameras.
Cons
- Does not shoot 4K UHD videos
- Lacks features such as GPS and e-compass.
- It is not a waterproof vlogging camera with flip screen
8.SeaLife DC2000 Underwater Camera
Sealife has long been manufacturing high-quality underwater gadgets, and the DC2000 is their premium underwater camera.
It features intuitive key layout, eight different shooting modes, and a SONY 20MP 1” type back-illuminated 20MP Image Sensor that produces exceptional images.
Moreover, it has a max aperture of f/1.8 which means great low light performance.
Rigs with flashlights attached for underwater shooting are also available.
Moreover, this robust camera is waterproof down to 60ft/18m and can withstand drops of 5ft/1.5m without the housing.
At around 500$ price tag it is a bit pricey for a waterproof camera, and yet, it does not shoot 4K. Although it is a premium product capable of creating great images, it has become a bit outdated due to no 4K video and therefore not the best waterproof vlogging camera you can buy.
Check out the detailed Sealife DC200 review here.
Why is the Sealife DC2000 our eighth pick?
In today’s highly competitive world, there are innovative products being launched every now and then. Even though DC2000 features a high-quality sensor and takes great images, it lags behind in the 4K video department. Therefore it is eighth in our list.
Moreover, if you don’t care about the 4K video though, then this is potentially the best Youtube waterproof camera for you. According to DPREVIEW, “It’s a great beach or vacation camera that can stand up to a fair amount of abuse”
Pros
- Three different rigs are available to buy with flashlights attached.
- 1” 20 mp sensor produces great images
- A variety of underwater lenses available.
- Shoots RAW images
- Gives you the option for manual control
Cons
- Only shoots 1080p 60fps video
- A bit pricey compared to other rugged cameras
- It is not a waterproof vlogging camera with flip screen
9.Ricoh WG-60 Waterproof Digital Camera
The Ricoh WG-60 is one of the most popular cheap waterproof cameras you can buy.
The wide aperture and CMOS sensor allow the camera to take great pictures, although it is limited to 1080p video.
Moreover, it stays waterproof down to 14m of depth for up to two hours and is on par with the rugged cameras in other departments.
It also features a handheld night mode which uses composite images to produce excellent low light results.
Photography blog has this to say about it, “The Ricoh WG-60 is a new digital waterproof compact camera that’s perfect for underwater photography”
Why is the Ricoh WG-60 our ninth pick?
Although this camera lacks features such as 4K video and other bells and whistles, it is a bargain at its price point. Once you accept it for its limitations, it performs very well considering what it’s capable of. Check out this review to get a better look at what the Ricoh WG-60 is capable of.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Great image quality for a budget camera
- Can stay submerged in water for up to 2 hours
Cons
- Does not have a flip screen
- Only shoots up to 1080p, no 4K video.
- Does not have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for wireless connectivity
10.Nikon AW1 Waterproof Shockproof Digital Camera
The Nikon 1 AW1 is another waterproof camera produced by Nikon. In our list of the waterproof camera for vlogging, this is perhaps the most unique camera.
It is the world’s first waterproof camera with interchangeable lenses.
With a 1-inch 14.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor, it is capable of shooting sharp high-resolution images and perform very well in low light.
If you’re looking for a sleek design in a rugged camera, this waterproof camera for YouTube might be worth looking into.
Photographyblog has praise for this camera, “there is little about the Nikon 1 AW1 that feels compromised in order to achieve the level of protection it offers.”
Why is the Nikon 1 AW1 our tenth pick?
This camera, although offering a lot of utility, is somewhat of a niche product. The interchangeable lenses and a large sensor make it a promising competitor, but it lags behind due to no 4K video option of the flip screen.
Check out the full review of Nikon 1 AW1 here to see whether this is the best waterproof vlogging camera for you.
Pros
- Waterproof and interchangeable lens camera
- Has a built-in GPS and geotagging feature.
- Sleek design and elegant colors
- Compatible with all Nikon 1 lenses
- Can shoot in RAW format in manual mode
Cons
- Has Just 1080p video recording.
- Does not have a flip screen
- Only two interchangeable lenses available for this camera
- Interchangeable lenses are a fuss for people who want the ease of use
11.GoPro Fusion — 360 Waterproof Digital VR Camera
The GoPro Fusion is a unique waterproof camera. What sets it apart from the competition is 360-degree video and VR capability.
The 360 view is unique and captures the true essence of a moment, an indispensable asset for vloggers.
The 360 VR field of view is especially important in situations where a lot is happening, like parties, sporting events, picnics, etc.
The GoPro fusion also provides immense utility for how you use its footage, as it allows you to take 5.2K spherical footage and pictures and crop them to standard 1080p resolution from whichever angle you choose.
Why is the GoPro Fusion our last pick?
Although the GoPro Fusion is great at what it does, it may not be the best YouTube waterproof camera if you’re looking for casual use and standard footage. This camera has been chosen by us as it can greatly enhance your content is used as a secondary camera for b-roll or hyper-lapse footage. Check out its in-depth review here to learn more about its utilization.
Pros
- Great value for a reasonable price
- Captures spherical 5.2K footage @ 30 fps and 3K footage @ 60 fps.
- Overcapture lets u create standard 1080p footage from spherical 5.2K footage.
- Lets you preview, edit, and share your content through GoPro app on your mobile phone
- Has built it gimbal-like stabilization, better than any smartphone
Cons
- Waterproof down to only 5m
- Has no screen, flip or otherwise.
Buyers Guide (Best Waterproof vlogging Camera)
When choosing any gadget, you need to access your requirements and settle on something that provides you the most utility and value.
In our list, we have reviewed rugged underwater cameras with distinct selling points, ranging from small size, ease of use, interchangeable lenses and VR cameras.
Now, let’s talk about the features that make a great action camera/waterproof cameras:
Waterproofing
The most important factor for the best YouTube waterproof camera is perhaps its water resistance and depth rating. Nowadays you can easily find cameras that are resistant up to 10-15 m.
Popular action cameras such as the GoPro are resistant up to 10 m underwater, while some other Nikon and Sealife cameras offer to waterproof up to 18-30 m.
Moreover, you can buy additional covers for some cameras that provide much better waterproofing.
Waterproofing a camera body makes it bulky and heavy.
Now, well talk about how important size is for a waterproof camera for a vlogging
Size of Waterproof Vlogging Cameras
Portability and compactness of a camera are crucial for any action camera. It is just as important for a waterproof camera for vlogging. Not only is a lightweight camera easy to carry around, but it can be mounted anywhere easily.
For instance, a waterproof camera for YouTube can have incredible utility if it is easily mountable. This allows greater accessibility for all kinds of people ranging from divers, swimmers, surfers to offroad racers and cyclists allowing them to mount the camera anywhere with ease and record breathtaking fast paced footage.
While there are very compact cameras available in the market, they cut some corners in image quality and durability.
Display of Waterproof Vlogging Cameras
The display has become somewhat of a necessity for all cameras today. This is also true for an action/ waterproof vlogging camera.
While most waterproof cameras available have screens, some of the compact pocket-sized ones have very tiny screens or none at all.
Since these cameras are expected to be used outdoors under direct sunlight, having an anti-reflective coating on the screen is an added benefit.
For vloggers though, flip screens provide the most utility, therefore a waterproof vlogging camera with flips screen is a huge benefit.
Apart from the main action oriented features, there is a range of features such as video modes, resolutions, connectivity options, etc that should be considered before deciding which is the best waterproof vlogging camera.
After carefully evaluating the cameras in our list, we have created a list of the best waterproof vlogging camera in various categories:
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterproof Vlogging Cameras(FAQs)
Are GoPros good for vlogging?
GoPros are designed for ease of use, portability, and accessibility. They are lightweight, have decent image quality, are rugged, and can be mounted anywhere easily. All these features make them very useful for vlogging.
What is a good underwater camera?
Underwater cameras need to be rugged and waterproof. They are used by adventurers and therefore additional features such as GPS, Barometer, compass, thermometer are very useful. The Olympus TG-6 is a great underwater camera that shoots decent quality footage and has all the additional features adventurers and travelers can take advantage of.
Should I shoot in RAW?
RAW format captures all the data from the sensor and saves it on your memory card. It gives you a lot of freedom when editing pictures, whereas other image formats limit how much you can edit a picture. While that is true, some cameras take longer to save RAW files due to bigger file size, which limits how many pictures you can save on your memory card.
How do you take underwater pictures?
First and foremost, you need to be a competent diver and be comfortable underwater. Next, you need to make sure you have the right equipment. Either an underwater camera or a protective body for your stand camera. Another important aspect is lighting, be sure to have flashlights to illuminate your frame as natural light is limited underwater.
How much do underwater photographers make?
Most underwater photographers make between $35,000 to $60,000. According to a report from the Marine Insight. The average salary of an underwater photographer is approximately $40,000
How do you take good underwater pictures with a GoPro?
Apart from being a skilled diver, you need a flashlight and red/purple tinted filters when shooting with a GoPro. Moreover, it is always a good idea to have a selfie stick which extends your range greatly.
Best Waterproof Vlogging Cameras 2019 Based on User Review
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