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5 Best Waterproof Cameras Under $100


Most recommended
AKASO Brave 4 4K 20MP WiFi Action Camera
  • Brand AKASO
  • Optical Sensor Size 20MP
  • Lens Type Zoom
A good choice too
AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action
  • Brand AKASO
  • Lens Type Fisheye
  • C T Wifi
A good choice too
AKASO 4K Wi-Fi Sports Action Camera Ultra HD
  • Brand AKASO
  • Color Blue
  • Item Weight 0.11 Pounds
Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera Touch Screen
  • Brand Dragon Touch
  • Screen Size 2 Inches
  • Item Weight 0.98 Pounds
Underwater Camera Full HD 2.7K 48MP
  • Brand S & P Safe and Perfect
  • Color WPC-1
  • Lens Type Zoom

Choose the Best Waterproof Camera Under $100

Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Waterproof Cameras Under $100

3 users answered this survey. Please help us improve this review!

33.33% of users selected AKASO Brave 4 4K 20MP WiFi Action Camera, 33.33% selected AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action, 0.00% selected AKASO 4K Wi-Fi Sports Action Camera Ultra HD, 0.00% selected Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera Touch Screen and 33.33% selected Underwater Camera Full HD 2.7K 48MP. Every month we analyze your answers and change our rating.

A camera is a device that records or takes still photographs of objects, people, and scenes. It may be used in many different ways including criminal justice, entertainment, and scientific research. There are many different types of cameras available on the market today, but one category that is growing in popularity is waterproof cameras. In this article, we will discuss what to look for when purchasing a waterproof camera and provide reviews of some of the best models available under $100.

Table of Contents

AKASO Brave 4 4K 20MP WiFi Action Camera Ultra HD

AKASO Brave 4 4K 20MP WiFi Action Camera Ultra HD: Don’t let life’s adventures pass you by! With this action camera, you can capture all the excitement and memories in stunning quality. The camera is fully waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about taking it on all your daring escapades.

Plus, it has a host of features that will make using it a breeze. You can easily connect wirelessly to Wi-Fi for fast access to your footage, or use the app to control the camera remotely and see what you’re capturing in real time. And at such an affordable price, there’s no excuse not to get one!

So, don’t let its affordable price tag fool you – the AKASO Brave 4 4K 20MP WiFi Action Camera Ultra HD is a powerful camera that can capture stunning footage in high resolutions. However, there are a few downsides to this camera. For starters, it does not come with a lens protector, so be careful not to drop it! Additionally, the remote control is not waterproof, so you’ll have to be careful using it in wet environments. And finally, the sound quality is below average compared to other waterproof action cameras on the market. But despite these minor flaws, the AKASO is still a nice choice for everyone on a budget.

Pros
  • Fully waterproof;
  • Good video quality;
  • Has a variety of features;
  • Affordable;
  • Fast to use;
  • Wireless Wi-fi connectability;
  • Small and lightweight;

Cons
  • Comes without a lens protector;
  • Remote control is not waterproof;
  • Below average quality photos;
  • No user manual included;
  • Bad sound quality;
  • Batteries die fast;
  • LCD is hard to read under direct sun;


AKASO V50X Native 4K30fps WiFi Action Camera

AKASO V50X is a top-of-the-line action camera that captures good quality video at 30fps. With its rugged build quality and excellent image stabilization, it’s the perfect camera for capturing extreme sports and adventures. Plus, it comes with a variety of mounts to suit any activity.

And with a pretty long battery life, you can record all your excitement without worries. Most importantly, the AKASO V50X delivers great image quality for the price, thanks to its advanced sensors and processors. So you can relive your every adventure in brilliant detail.

The AKASO V50X Action Camera is a great camera that can shoot at 30fps. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable action camera that still offers great quality footage. However, there are some downsides to this camera. The buttons don’t always control the touchscreen properly and the wrist remote isn’t waterproof. Additionally, the audio quality leaves something to be desired and it can be difficult to connect to the app. One final downside is that the batteries can get hot fast. Overall, the AKASO V50X is a decent action camera, but consider yourself if you are willing to work around these drawbacks.

Pros
  • Solid build quality;
  • Decent image stabilization;
  • Comes with many mounts;
  • Good battery life;
  • Great image quality;
  • Menus are easy to use;

Cons
  • Buttons don’t control the touch screen properly;
  • Wrist remote isn’t waterproof;
  • Awful audio quality;
  • Poor connectivity with an app;
  • Batteries can get hot fast;
  • Poor controller;


AKASO EK7000 4K Action Camera

AKASO’s EK7000 4K Action Camera is a great value for the price. Its high-quality picture and video are perfect for capturing your most thrilling adventures, and its affordability makes it easy to take along on all of your journeys. Plus, it’s securely waterproof so you can film underwater without any worries.

And if you run out of power, no problem! This camera comes with two sets of batteries so you’re always ready to capture the action. It also includes a remote control and mounts, making it super easy to use.

The AKASO EK7000 4K Action Camera is a good budget-friendly camera that falls short on some features. The battery life is very short, so be sure to take some extra batteries on your trip. The focus is also fixed, making it difficult to get the perfect shot from the upclose. The housing is made of plastic, which feels cheap and may not be very durable. The buttons are also inconveniently located, making it difficult to make any adjustments while you’re filming. Finally, the camera only supports microSD cards up to 32GB in size, so you’ll have to start deleting files or taking an extra memory card with you if you plan on shooting for extended periods of time.

Pros
  • Good picture/video quality for the price;
  • Affordable;
  • Securely waterproof;
  • Comes with a plenty of accessories;
  • Small and portable;

Cons
  • Short battery life;
  • Fixed focus;
  • Housing is made of plastic;
  • Inconvenient buttons;
  • Only supports microSD cards up to 32GB;


Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera

Looking for a decent quality and easy to use action camera? Look no further than the Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera. This little powerhouse is perfect for anyone who wants to capture high quality video without spending a fortune. It’s easy to set-up and use, and comes with a great selection of accessories.

Plus, it’s portable so you can take it with you wherever you go. And if you have any problems, no worries – it comes with a two year warranty.
The Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable camera. However, there are some drawbacks. The field of view can’t be narrowed, which means you’ll have to be careful when framing your shots. The audio quality is also very poor, so you’ll need to use an external microphone if you want to capture clear sound. Closeup image quality is also an issue, so this camera isn’t ideal for shooting close-up photos or videos. And finally, the batteries don’t last very long, so you’ll need to keep a spare handy. But besides these drawbacks, the Dragon Touch 4K Action Camera is still a good choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Pros
  • Decent quality video;
  • Easy to set-up and use;
  • Portable;
  • Comes with a good selection of accessories;
  • Two year warranty;
  • Compatible with 64GB/128GB memory cards;

Cons
  • Field of view can’t be narrowed;
  • Very poor audio quality;
  • Poor closeup image quality;
  • Batteries don’t last long;
  • Poor synchronization with some phones;


S & P Underwater Camera Waterproof Camera Full HD 2.7K 48MP

Are you looking for a user-friendly waterproof camera that takes great pictures? Look no further than the S & P Underwater Camera! This affordable camera comes with a flash and wrist strap, making it easy to keep track of and use.

Plus, the picture quality is pretty good, making it a great option for anyone looking to take underwater photos or videos.
S & P Underwater Camera is one of the cheapest waterproof cameras you can find on the market. The camera has a full HD 2.7K 48MP resolution and it is perfect for taking pictures and videos underwater. Even though the camera is claimed to be waterproof, it’s not perfect and you should be careful when using it around water. The customer service from the seller could be better, but overall the product is great. The camera only lasts for only a short while before needing to be charged again, especially when filming videos, so keep that in mind.

Pros
  • User-friendly;
  • Comes with a useful flash;
  • Picture quality is pretty good;
  • Has a wrist strap;
  • Great option for the price;

Cons
  • Not perfectly waterproof;
  • Poor customer service from the seller;
  • Doesn’t hold charge for too long;


Buyer’s guide

The Many Uses of Waterproof Cameras

People use waterproof cameras for a variety of reasons. Some people like to take them on vacation so they can capture all the memories without having to worry about their camera getting wet.

The most popular use for waterproof cameras is, of course, taking pictures underwater. Whether you’re snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef or swimming in your local pool, a waterproof camera is a great way to capture all the memories without having to worry about your camera getting wet. You also can take it into a dangerous environment without having to worry about damaging your expensive DSLR camera or smartphone.

Waterproof cameras are also great for taking pictures in the rain or snow. If you’ve ever tried to take a picture in the rain with a regular camera, you know how difficult it can be to keep the lens dry and free of water droplets. With a waterproof camera, you don’t have to worry about that. Just point and shoot! [1]

Comparing Disposable, Digital and Action Cameras

When it comes to choosing a waterproof camera, you have three main options: disposable cameras, digital cameras, and action cameras.

Disposable Cameras

A disposable camera is a type of camera that comes with a pre-loaded roll of film. Once the roll of film is finished, you take the whole camera to a photo lab to get the film developed.

Disposable Cameras

Disposable cameras are usually used because they’re inexpensive and easy to use, plus the give off that nostalgic feel of old film cameras. You don’t have to worry about buying film or getting the pictures developed, everything is taken care of for you. And many of them are waterproof too, so you can take pictures underwater without any worries.

The downside of disposable cameras is that you have no control over the quality of the pictures. Disposables have a fixed aperture and shutter speed, so you can’t adjust the settings to get the best possible picture.

Another downside is that you have to develop the film. This can be expensive, especially if you have the pictures developed at a professional photo lab.

Digital Camera

Digital cameras are the most popular type of camera on the market today. They’re easy to use, compact, and relatively inexpensive. And, thanks to advances in technology, they keep getting better and better.

There are two main types of digital cameras: point-and-shoot and DSLR.

Point-and-shoot cameras are small, lightweight, and easy to use. They’re perfect for taking pictures of your kids or vacation snapshots. The main advantage of digital cameras is that they’re very user-friendly. Even if you’ve never used a camera before, it’s easy to figure out how to use a digital camera. Just point and shoot!

Another advantage of point-and-shoot cameras is that they’re very compact. You can easily slip a digital camera into your pocket or purse, which makes them ideal for vacations or days when you don’t want to carry around a lot of gear.

These cameras have many advantages over disposable cameras. They’re user-friendly, compact, and relatively inexpensive.

Point-and-shoot cameras do have their limitations, however. They don’t offer the same level of picture quality as a DSLR camera and come with less nifty photography features.

DSLR cameras are the professional choice for photographers who want the best possible picture quality.

DSLR cameras have large sensors that allow you to take pictures with less noise and more detail.
They also offer a variety of manual settings so you can adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and other factors to get the perfect picture.

Of course, all this quality comes at a price. DSLR cameras are larger and heavier than point-and-shoot cameras, and they’re more expensive too. But if you’re serious about photography, a DSLR camera is worth the investment.

Action Cameras

An action camera is a compact camera designed to be used while participating in sports or other activities. Action cameras are usually small and light, so they can be easily mounted on helmets, handlebars, or other gear.

Action cameras have many features that make them ideal for use in extreme conditions, such as waterproof housings that allow them to be used underwater, image stabilization to reduce blur, and high-frame-rate recording for slow-motion playback.

One of the main advantages of using an action camera is that you can capture video and photos from perspectives that would not be possible with a regular camera. For example, you can mount an action camera on your helmet to get a first-person view of your mountain bike ride down a rocky trail. Or you can attach it to your surfboard to capture video of you riding the waves.

Action Cameras

Another advantage of action cameras is that they are designed to be used without a lot of fuss. Many action cameras can be started with the push of a button, and they will automatically begin recording video or taking pictures. This is convenient if you’re participating in an activity where it would be difficult to fiddle with a camera, such as whitewater rafting or rock climbing.

However, action cameras have some drawbacks. One is that they tend to be more expensive than regular cameras. Another is that action cameras usually have a shorter battery life than regular cameras because they use more power when recording video. [2],[3]

Can You Buy a Good Waterproof Camera for Less Than $100?

The short answer is yes, you can find a good waterproof camera for less than $100. However, you may have to sacrifice some features, such as image quality or the ability to shoot in RAW format. But there are still some camera options that offer a surprisingly good image quality for the price.

Tips on Shooting Great Pictures Underwater

Getting great pictures underwater doesn’t depend from the camera alone. Your own skills play a big role too, as well as your ability to work around unfavorable environmental conditions. Here are a few tips on how to take better pictures underwater:

  • Get close to your subject. The farther away you are, the more water there is between you and your subject, which can reduce image quality.
  • Use natural light whenever possible. This will help avoid that eerie blue color cast that can happen when using flash underwater.
  • When shooting with flash, use it in forced mode.
  • Keep in mind the shutter speed of your camera. A slower shutter speed will result in a blurrier image, so you may need to use a higher ISO setting to compensate. [1],[4]

How to Properly Take Care of Your Waterproof Camera

If you want your waterproof camera to last, it’s important to take care of it. Here are some advices on how to properly maintain your camera.

Clean the lens with a soft, dry cloth.

If there is dirt or grime on the lens, you can use a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth.
Be careful not to scratch the lens.

Store the camera in a cool, dry place when not in use. Waterproof cameras are designed to withstand exposure to water, but they can be damaged by high temperatures or dust. So it’s best to keep them in their case if you aren’t planning on using them for a while.

Do not leave the camera in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. UV rays can damage the camera’s electronics and degrade its image quality over time.

Always rinse the camera with fresh water after it was used in saltwater. This will help remove any salt deposits that could damage the camera.

Use a waterproof case or housing when using the camera in extreme conditions. This will protect the camera from bumps, scratches, and other damage.

If you follow these tips, your waterproof camera should last for many years. [5]

Buyer’s Guide For the Best Waterproof Cameras Under $100

If you’re looking for a waterproof camera, but don’t want to spend a lot of money, then this buyer’s guide is for you. We’ll go over some of the best options on the market, as well as what to look for when choosing a camera.

Waterproofness Depth Rating

One of the most important things to look for when choosing a waterproof camera is the depth rating. This is how deep the camera can safely go without being damaged. The higher the depth rating, the better.

Most cameras on this list have a depth rating of at least 30 meters, which is more than enough for most people. However, if you plan on doing a lot of diving or snorkeling, then you’ll want to look for a camera with a higher depth rating.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the waterproof housing or case should tightly seal the camera. If there are any gaps or openings, then water can get in and damage the camera. And you don’t want water, especially saltwater, getting inside your camera.

So, when looking at waterproof cameras, be sure to check the depth rating and make sure the housing or case is watertight. [1],[6],[8]

Zoom capabilities

The next thing to consider is zoom. When it comes to underwater shooting, zoom isn’t really that important. This is because you’ll usually be pretty close to your subject matter.

However, if you’re planning on using the camera for other things, like shooting wildlife or landscapes, then you’ll want to make sure it has good zoom capabilities. [7],[8]

Lens aperture

The lens aperture is the opening in the lens through which light passes. It’s measured in f-stops, and the lower the number, the wider the opening.

Lens aperture

A wider aperture lets in more light, which is important for taking pictures underwater. You’ll want a camera with a wide aperture so you can take clear pictures even when there’s not a lot of light. [1],[8]

Build durability

Another important thing to consider when choosing a waterproof camera is build durability. Waterproof cameras need to be able to withstand being dropped, as well as being hit by waves or rocks.

So, you’ll want to make sure the camera you choose is made of durable materials. Also, check to see if the camera has any special features that help protect it from being damaged.

For example, some cameras have double-layer housing that helps protect the camera from being dropped. And some have shock-absorption systems that help protect the camera from impact. [1]

Budget

The next thing you need to consider when looking for a waterproof camera is your budget. You can find some great options under $100, but you may have to sacrifice on features or quality.

If you’re willing to spend a little more, then you’ll have a lot more options to choose from. However, if you’re on a tight budget, then don’t worry – there are still some great cameras out there that won’t break the bank.

Keep in mind that cheaper cameras may not have all the features that more expensive ones do, so decide what’s most important to you and prioritize accordingly. Just evaluate the features you definitely want in your device and make a choice based on that, but don’t expect some highly advanced specs in a budget-friendly device.

At the end of the day, you might want to look at refurbished devices too in order to get a great deal on a camera that originally cost way more.

However, you need to be careful when buying refurbished products, as there is always the potential for something to go wrong. Make sure you buy from a reputable source and that the product comes with a warranty. [1],[8]

Photo quality

Of course, you’ll also want to consider the photo quality. Most of the cameras on this list take great photos and videos. However, there will be some variation in image quality from one camera to the next.

One thing to keep in mind is that the sensor size plays a large role in image quality.
A larger sensor will usually result in better image quality. But, it’s not always the case, however arguably sensor size matters more than megapixel count. The lens and other factors also play a role in the quality of your pictures. [1],[7]

Video quality

The next thing you’ll want to look at is video quality. Most of the cameras on this list can record 1080p HD video, which is the highest quality currently available. Finding a camera with a true 4k sensor is unfortunately impossible.

It’s also worth noting that some of these cameras have built-in stabilization, which can help keep your videos smooth and steady. Image stabilization is a feature that helps reduce camera shake and blur. It’s especially important for underwater shooting, as it can be difficult to keep the camera still when you’re swimming around or in low light conditions.

So, when considering a waterproof cameras, be sure to check the video quality and see if it has any special features like built-in stabilization. [1],[6],[8]

How easy it is to use the camera

You also want to consider how easy it is to use the camera. If you’re going to be using it in the water, then you’ll want a camera that’s easy to operate, even with wet hands.

How easy it is to use the camera

Some cameras have large buttons that are easy to press, even when wearing gloves. Others have touchscreen displays that can be difficult to use when wet. So, if you plan on using your camera in the water a lot, then you’ll want to choose one that’s easy to use.

Also consider how easy it is to download and share photos and videos. Some cameras come with built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which makes it easy to transfer files wirelessly. Or you can remove the memory card and insert it into a computer or other device. [1],[6]

Portability

Another important factor to keep in mind is portability. Waterproof cameras can be larger and heavier. This is because they need to be well-sealed in order to keep water out. The heavier your camera is the more inconvenient it is to carry around with you.

It’s also worth noting that some waterproof cameras come with accessories like straps or floats. These can be handy if you’re worried about dropping your camera in the water.

Finally, when it comes to portability, it’s important to think about how easy the camera is to use. If you’re going to be using it in the water, then you’ll want something that’s easy to operate, even with wet hands. [1]

Warranty

Finally, you’ll want to consider the warranty.

Waterproof cameras are more expensive than regular point-and-shoot cameras, so you’ll want to make sure that your investment is protected.

Most of the cameras on this list come with a one-year warranty. However, there are a few that have longer warranties or even extended warranties available.

So, when choosing a waterproof camera, be sure to check the warranty and see what kind of coverage it offers.

Comparison of Waterproof Cameras Under $100

When choosing a waterproof camera on a budget, it’s important to consider various indicators that can help you make an informed decision. The table below provides a comparison of different indicators for waterproof cameras under $100.

Indicator Description
Waterproof Depth The maximum depth the camera can be submerged without damage.
Megapixels The resolution of the camera sensor, determining the image quality.
Video Resolution The maximum video resolution the camera can capture.
Zoom The level of optical or digital zoom available on the camera.
Image Stabilization Whether the camera has built-in image stabilization to reduce blur.
Storage The type of storage media used and its capacity.
Battery Life The expected duration of battery usage before recharging.

The table provides an overview of important indicators to consider when choosing a waterproof camera under $100. The waterproof depth determines how deep you can take the camera underwater without causing damage. Higher megapixels generally result in better image quality. Video resolution is important if you plan to record videos. Zoom capabilities allow you to get closer to your subject. Image stabilization helps to minimize blurriness in photos. Consider the type of storage and its capacity to ensure you have enough space for your media. Finally, battery life is crucial for extended usage without frequent recharging.


FAQ

Is GoPro the best underwater camera?

This is a difficult question to answer. GoPro has a great reputation for making high-quality waterproof cameras, but there are other companies that make excellent products as well. Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for the best possible image quality, then you’ll probably want to spend more than $100 on a GoPro camera. However, if you’re just looking for something to take on vacation or to the pool, then one of the cameras in this guide should be a good fit.

How much does a good quality underwater camera cost?

A good quality underwater camera can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. However, there are some great options available for under $100. You just need to list down your needs and requirements from the camera before making your purchase.

You should also be down to earth when considering the capabilities of a budget camera. If you want high-quality photographs, you’ll need to invest in a more expensive camera. However, if you only want to capture some memories while swimming or snorkeling, a low-cost camera will be enough.

Are waterproof cameras good for scuba diving?

Yes, waterproof cameras are good for scuba diving. However, you will need to purchase a waterproof case or housing in order to protect your camera from the water.

What are some waterproof cameras under $100?

There are several waterproof cameras available under $100, such as the Fujifilm FinePix XP130, Olympus Tough TG-320, and the Nikon Coolpix S33. These cameras are designed to be waterproof and offer decent image quality at an affordable price.

What is the depth rating of budget-friendly waterproof cameras?

Budget-friendly waterproof cameras typically have a depth rating between 10 and 30 feet (3-9 meters). While they are suitable for snorkeling, swimming, and shallow water activities, they may not be ideal for deep diving or prolonged underwater use.

Can I capture high-quality photos with a waterproof camera under $100?

While waterproof cameras under $100 may not offer the same image quality as high-end DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, they can still capture decent photos in good lighting conditions. However, it’s important to manage your expectations and understand that the image quality may not be as exceptional as more expensive cameras.

Are budget waterproof cameras durable?

Budget waterproof cameras are designed to withstand water exposure, shock, and rugged use to some extent. However, it’s important to note that their durability may not be as high as that of more expensive, professional-grade underwater cameras. Proper care and maintenance are still recommended to ensure their longevity.

What video resolution can I expect from a waterproof camera under $100?

Waterproof cameras in the under $100 price range typically offer video recording at HD (720p) resolution. While this may not be the highest video quality available, it can still provide satisfactory results for casual underwater videography and other outdoor activities.

Can I take a waterproof camera under $100 on snorkeling trips?

Yes, waterproof cameras under $100 are suitable for snorkeling trips. They are specifically designed to handle water exposure and can withstand the depth and pressure levels typically encountered during snorkeling activities. However, always check the depth rating and specifications of the camera before submerging it underwater.

What features should I look for in a budget waterproof camera?

When choosing a budget waterproof camera, consider features such as waterproof depth rating, shock resistance, image stabilization, megapixel count, video recording capabilities, battery life, and ease of use. Prioritize the features that are most important to you based on your intended use of the camera.

Can I use a budget waterproof camera for other outdoor activities besides underwater photography?

Yes, budget waterproof cameras can be used for a variety of outdoor activities besides underwater photography. They are often designed to be rugged and withstand harsh conditions, making them suitable for activities such as hiking, camping, skiing, and beach trips.

Useful Video: Best Budget Waterproof Camera [Top 5 Picks For Underwater Photography]

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a top-of-the-line waterproof camera to capture your diving trips or kayaking adventures, or you’re on a budget and just need something to snap photos of the family at the beach this summer, there are plenty of great waterproof cameras out there to choose from. When choosing a camera, be sure to consider the waterproof level, price, durability, image and video quality, user-friendliness, zoom capability and warranty. We’ve highlighted some of our favorites in this post, but it really comes down to personal preference when it comes time to make your purchase. So don’t wait any longer – get ready to take some amazing underwater shots and memories with your new waterproof camera!


References:

  1. https://photographypx.com/best-waterproof-camera/
  2. https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/features/5-reasons-you-should-buy-a-film-camera-over-a-disposable
  3. https://gopro.com/en/rs/news/action-camera-101-your-top-questions-answered
  4. https://www.uwphotographyguide.com/underwater-photography-tips
  5. https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-waterproof-camera/
  6. https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/g36752868/best-waterproof-cameras/
  7. https://www.divein.com/diving/underwater-camera/
  8. https://www.divein.com/diving/waterproof-camera/