If you’re wondering what the best GoPro for diving is, you’ve come to the right place!
Most waterproof GoPro cameras can only go as deep as 33 feet/10 meters underwater without a case.
And if you plan to go deeper than that, you’ll need an underwater housing case to safely pull off your adventure with your beloved action camera.
In this article, you’ll find a list of the six best GoPro cameras that you can use for your underwater adventures, like diving, snorkeling, and more.
8 Best GoPro Cameras for Diving
Starting from GoPro Hero 5 Black, which was launched in October 2016, all GoPro flagship models are waterproof without a housing (down to 33 feet/10 meters).
Want to dive deeper than that? No worries!
You can cover your GoPro with an underwater housing case, and dive worry free! Note that there are no underwater housings for Hero 11 mini, so you can only do snorkeling with it.
Have a look at my review of these top GoPro models suitable for diving:
My Top Pick!
GoPro Hero 12 Black
The GoPro Hero 12 stands as an unparalleled companion for skiing enthusiasts, offering features tailored to capture every exhilarating moment under the sea. Its waterproof capability down to 33ft (10m) makes it a reliable companion in underwater expeditions, securing its internal components against the pressures of the deep. The High Dynamic Range (HDR) in both photo and video modes promises vivid and lifelike representations of marine life and seascapes, balancing lights and shadows to reflect true-to-life colors and details of the underwater world.
The 5.3K video resolution extends an unparalleled crispness and clarity to every frame, making every underwater exploration a cinematic adventure, and the 27MP photos enable divers to capture the intricate details of aquatic life with precision. Beyond visual acuity, the Hero 12’s Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization technology ensures smooth, shake-free recordings, crucial when navigating through underwater currents and focusing on moving subjects. The rugged construction and water-repelling lens cover safeguard the camera against the potential impacts and obstructions common in underwater environments, ensuring enduring performance and unblemished capture quality in every dive.
Money=Value
GoPro Hero 11 Black
The Hero 11 is a significant step forward for action camera enthusiasts, weighing only 153 grams and sporting dimensions of 2.64 x 1.34 x 1.85 inches. This powerful device captures stunning 27MP images with an 8:7 aspect ratio and provides exceptional video quality with resolutions of 5.3K60, 4K120 + 2.7K240 in various aspect ratios. Its HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization with AutoBoost ensures your footage remains smooth and stable, even in the most challenging conditions. Additionally, the Hero 11 is waterproof up to 33ft, making it a reliable companion for your underwater adventures.
Not only does the Hero 11 offer incredible image and video capabilities, but it also supports live streaming in 1080p resolution. Inside the box, you’ll find the Hero 11 Black Camera, a rechargeable Enduro battery, a curved adhesive mount, a mounting buckle, a USB-C cable, a thumb screw, and a camera case. This all-in-one package is perfect for capturing your most thrilling moments in stunning detail.
Amazing Choice
GoPro Hero 10 Black
- Revolutionary Processor: Faster. Smoother. Better. The powerful new GP2 engine...
- High-Res Photos plus Videos, High Frame Rate: Step up to the sharpest-shooting GoPro...
- Unbelievable Image Quality: Shoot with fine detail, realistic textures and stunning...
The latest GoPro model – the new GoPro Hero 10 Black addresses all the shortcomings of its predecessors in a superb way! Capable of being used down to 33ft/10m underwater without a housing case, this action camera features a brand-new GP-2 processor which doubles the performance of the previous Hero 9. This camera is the best so far when it comes to image quality – its photo resolution is 23 megapixels, and it can shoot up to 5.3K videos at 60 frames per second (FPS); 4K up to 120 FPS; and 2.7K at 240 FPS.
What’s more, with HyperSmooth 4.0, you get a significantly upgraded EIS for steadier videos than ever before. Plus, can now apply stabilization even to higher video resolutions (5.3K30, 4K60, and 2.7K120). Even though this camera is the costliest one on this list, it’s the one of the best GoPros that you can buy for shooting your ultimate diving adventures.
Value for Money
GoPro Hero 9 Black
- 5K VIDEO: Shoot stunning video with up to 5K resolution, perfect for maintaining...
- 20 MP PHOTO WITH SUPERPHOTO: Capture crisp, pro-quality photos with 20MP clarity. And...
- FRONT DISPLAY + REAR TOUCH SCREEN: A new, larger rear touch screen with touch zoom on...
Introduced in 2020, the GoPro Hero 9 Black is still a popular choice when it comes to the best GoPros you can buy for underwater use. You can use Hero 9 underwater (down to 33ft/10m) without housing. To dive deeper, you’ll need to cover it up in a compatible housing case. This GoPro model has all it takes to be a good action camera – it’s compact, versatile, and rugged. The GoPro Hero 9 Black is the first camera by the company to have a front color display. Its touchscreen is also significantly bigger than its predecessor – the GoPro Hero 8 Black.
Hero 9 is capable of shooting up to 5K resolution videos, and 20-megapixel stills. At 1720mAh, its battery is also bumped up from the previous GoPros. Last but not the least, image stabilization in the Hero 9 Black is further improved with HyperSmooth 3.0. Therefore, if you want a recent and top-notch GoPro model even by today’s (2022) standards for diving, but don’t want to spend too much, then the GoPro Hero 9 is a solid choice!
First GoPro with Integrated Mounting System
GoPro Hero 8 Black
- HyperSmooth 2.0: HERO8 Black has three levels of stabilization: On, High and Boost....
- Streamlined Design: The re-imagined shape is more pocketable, and folding fingers at...
- Expandable Mods: Vloggers, pro filmmakers and aspiring creators can do more than ever...
Launched in October 2019, the rugged GoPro Hero 8 Black is capable of going down to 33ft/10m underwater without a housing case. So, you can go snorkeling with your Hero 8 action camera without housing. But, if you want to go deeper than 33 feet (for scuba diving, for example), you’ll need to use it with a housing case.
With this model, GoPro introduced some really innovative features. This camera incorporates the mounting system right into the case, which wasn’t there in its predecessors. The amazing add-ons, like Media Mod functionality, also got introduced with the GoPro Hero 8 Black. Furthermore, the camera features excellent image stabilization – HyperSmooth 2.0.
First GoPro with HyperSmooth EIS Tech
GoPro Hero 7 Black
- HyperSmooth: Get gimbal‑like stabilization—without the gimbal. HERO7 Black...
- TimeWarp: Capture super stabilized time lapse videos while you move about a scene....
- Live streaming in 720p: Share while you’re there. Live stream in 720p on social,...
The GoPro Hero 7 Black features the same external design as the previous models like Hero 5 & 6 Black. But it improves a lot of things too. One of the most notable additions to the Hero 7 Black is the HyperSmooth EIS technology. Yes, the GoPro Hero 7 Black is the first GoPro camera to feature HyperSmooth – GoPro’s trademark stabilization tech that has garnered admiration from everyone.
Like the other models on this list, the GoPro Hero 7 is also waterproof. So, you may take it underwater (down to 10m/33ft). However, if you plan on taking it past 10 meters, be sure to put it inside the SuperSuit housing to avoid water leaking into the camera.
A Good Entry-Level GoPro
GoPro Hero 6 Black
- HERO6 black automatically sends your footage to your phone where the app turns it...
- With 4k60 and 1080p240 video, HERO6 black delivers 2x the performance compared to...
- With our most advanced video stabilization yet, HERO6 black captures super smooth...
The first GoPro to feature the GP-1 chip, you get a dramatically improved image quality in all lighting conditions with the GoPro Hero 6 Black when compared to the previous GoPro models. The image stabilization is also upgraded in this model, and you can shoot 4K videos at 60fps, which is pretty great!
The GoPro Hero 6 is waterproof down to 10m/33ft. So, while you can snorkel with this camera without facing any issues, if you plan on taking it deeper than 10 meters (such as while scuba diving), you’ll need to cover it up with a housing case.
Budget Option
GoPro Hero 5 Black
- Stunning 4k video and 12MP photos in single, burst and time lapse modes charger not...
- Durable by design, Hero5 black is waterproof to 33 feet (10 meter) without a housing
- Additional GoPro Hero5 black features + benefits below on item page time lapse photo...
Although it has been many years since this model was introduced, the GoPro Hero 5 Black is still a good choice for budget buyers who want good performance at a low price tag. The amazing thing about the Hero 5 Black is that it is 4K-capable. So, you can shoot amazing 4K/30fps underwater shots with this camera. Additionally, you can capture videos at 80fps in resolutions up to 1440p, and 120fps in resolutions up to 1080p.
What’s more, the camera has built-in image stabilization (EIS) and a wind noise reduction function for crystal-clear audio. Please note that, like other GoPros on this list, the Hero 5 Black is also water-resistant only up to 33 feet without housing. Therefore, you will need to buy a protective case for deep diving.
Find full comparison of all the GoPro cameras: GoPro Comparison Chart: 12 TOP GoPro Models
Suggested GoPro Accessories for Diving
While the above-mentioned GoPros are great for underwater, you’ll need some additional accessories to capture some epic underwater diving shots with your action camera.
Here are the top GoPro Accessories for Diving that I suggest you use:
Waterproof Housing
As I’ve already mentioned, if you plan to go deep into the water with your GoPro for diving, then Waterproof Housing is a must-have accessory for you. A good housing case allows your GoPro to withstand the pressure of water in the depths of the ocean.
Here’s the GoPro waterproof housing case that I like:
GoPro Official Protective Housing Case
Compatibility: GoPro Hero 11, 10, 9 Black
- Protects your GoPro from mud, dirt and debris during extreme activities
- Front LCD screen remains accessible for viewing
- Waterproof down to 196ft (60m) perfect for deep-water diving
This Housing Case by GoPro is your perfect diving companion! It protects your camera from mud, dirt, and debris. What’s more, you can dive down as deep as 196ft/60m underwater with this rugged diving case on.
For compatible Housing cases for other GoPro models, have a look at this article:
6 BEST GoPro Waterproof Case Housings
Red Filter Diving Lens
Red filters enhance the quality of your underwater GoPro footage. These filters bring back the reds that are lost as you dive deep into the ocean. There are three different kinds of red filters:
- Light Red filter (for color correction in clear freshwater at shallow depth: 2-15ft),
- Red Filter (for color correction in blue/tropical water at depth: 15-85 ft), and
- Magenta Filter (for color correction in waters that appear green, like in lakes and reservoirs at depth: 8-75 ft).
I recommend using a multi-filter pack with your GoPro so that you’re able to easily change filters as you go deeper in the water or come back to shallow waters.
Here’s my favorite Red Diving Filter Lens Pack:
PolarPro Dive Filter 3-Pack
Compatibility: GoPro Hero 10, 9 Black
- Engineered specifically for the HERO9, HERO10 Black, HERO11 Black, Hero12 Black...
- Capture vibrant colors in blue, green, and shallow waters.
- Secure slide-on design with added safety tethers ensure your filters stay connected...
This Red Filter 3-Pack is a quality product from PolarPro. It lets you capture vibrant colors while you’re underwater with your GoPro. The kit includes Red, Magenta, and Snorkel (light red) filters.
Have a look at this article for useful insights regarding the best Red Filter Diving Lens for different GoPro models:
7 Best GoPro (RED) Dive Filters for True Underwater Colors.
Diving Camera Rig
The Diving Camera Rig allows you to have better control of your camera while scuba diving. As a result, you are able to get amazingly stable, shake-free footage underwater.
I recommend that you use the following Diving Camera Rig with your GoPro:
Movo GB-U70 Underwater Diving Rig
Compatibility: All GoPro cameras
- SOLID CAMERA RIG - Strong Aluminum Alloy Tray is corrosion resistant and provides...
- MULTIPLE MOUNTING OPTIONS - Features two cold shoe mounts for LED GoPro light,...
- 1-YEAR WARRANTY: We’ve got your back. Our products are designed to ease your...
The Movo GB-U70 Underwater Diving Rig is ultra-durable and offers superior stability to your GoPro scuba diving footage. The rig also features an adjustable wrist strap for the enhanced safety of your GoPro.
Waterproof LED Light
If you’re planning on going deep-sea diving during the night, a waterproof LED light is a must! Also, while you’re in the deep sea, you might encounter some dark spots. A waterproof LED light helps illuminate the surrounding area up to a distance of about 3-6 feet. As a result, those lost beautiful colors of underwater scenes come back into the picture even when it’s otherwise dark!
Here’s the waterproof LED Light that I recommend:
Suptig Waterproof LED Light
Compatibility: All GoPro cameras
- Widely used: Perfect compatibility with Gopro Hero 13/Hero 12/11/10/9/8/7/6/5/4/3/2/1...
- GREAT DIVING LIGHTS Take amazing POV underwater video with this Suptig light for...
- WIDE-ANGLE 500Lumen Max. (5500K-6000K) by 36 LEDs.This is THE underwater light to buy...
Waterproof down to 45m/147ft, this wonderful waterproof LED Light lets you capture dark underwater scenes while diving with your GoPro. It is a wide-angle LED Light that offers up to 500 Lumens light. There are three modes that you can use: Normal (HI), Power-saving (LOW), and Flash (SOS).
More waterproof lights: 8 GoPro LED Lights & Accessories for Better Low Light Shots.
Which GoPro Will You Choose for Diving?
Now, you must have a general awareness about which GoPros are the best when it comes to underwater usage, and more specifically, for deep-sea diving. GoPro Hero 12 is, of course, the best GoPro you can choose for any kind of action, including diving. But, if you want value for money, and somewhat similar image quality, the GoPro Hero 11 Black is also a super-solid option even today!
Other than that, if you’re a beginner and want something that’s cheap, but still captures some great shots, then the GoPro Hero 8 Black is a good option too.
Lastly, whichever GoPro model you choose, don’t forget to pick up a compatible Waterproof Housing Case for deep-sea diving!
Thanks for reading!
I hope this guide helped you know which GoPro is the best for diving, and what accessories you’ll need with it 🙂
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