When it comes to underwater filming, GoPros are a great option. Most models are waterproof and can take both pictures and videos underwater. You can also adjust the features of some of the latest GoPro models while underwater. But how deep can you take your GoPro before it gets damaged? Do you need a case?
Most recent GoPro models can go up to 33 feet deep (10 meters) without a case. Check your model’s specifications to be sure. However, if you’re going to take your GoPro even deeper than that, you’ll need a case to protect the camera’s components from the high pressure of such depths.
Let’s look at how deep GoPros can go without a protective casing and how deep you can record with the protective case on. We’ll also review the best GoPros to use underwater and which features they offer.
Can GoPro Go Underwater Without a Case?
GoPros have been designed to withstand conditions that a normal phone or camera can’t, and underwater is no exception. But does that mean you can take the GoPro underwater without even a case to protect it? The answer is yes for many GoPro models, as long as you don’t take it below 10 meters or 33 feet.
GoPro cases are mainly meant for keeping your GoPro safe and preventing it from getting damaged in tough conditions. There may still be some confusion around this topic because the older versions of GoPro cameras were not water-resistant or waterproof, but starting with the GoPro HERO5, all GoPro HERO models are waterproof — at least to a depth of 33 feet.
Some GoPros have even been designed to go down to depths four times deeper than normal GoPros, with the HERO 2014 edition able to go down to 130 feet. However, if you’re just looking for something that will be easy to use and can capture amazing underwater shots, GoPro has many options to choose from.
Which GoPro Is Best for Underwater Shooting?
With a wide variety of options to choose from, here’s a list of the best GoPros to use underwater.
GoPro HERO9 Action Camera (on Amazon)
The GoPro HERO series was designed to take amateur vlogging to the next level — especially in difficult conditions, and the GoPro HERO9 camera is no exception. It has the ability to capture 240 frames per second. To put this into perspective, this allows you to capture videos in 8x slow motion.
This feature is great for unique video transitions and recording marine life underwater. This camera can go down to a depth of 33 feet without a case, and you may use either the touchscreen or the manual buttons to control the camera underwater.
The HERO9 also captures images and videos in different quality levels, whether it’s 5K, 4K, 2.7K,1080p, or 1440p. The new Max SuperView ability of the HERO9 camera gives you the widest angle perspective of any GoPro to date.
The battery life of the camera is linked with the modes of recording. For example, when used in 5K, the battery life is around one and a half hours, but if you use it in 1080p, the battery life is ten minutes more.
The only potential downside is that it may be more expensive than other competing products. However, not only are you guaranteed great video and photo capturing ability underwater but also unbeatable quality.
GoPro HERO7 Black Action Camera (on Amazon)
Even though the GoPro HERO5 was the first GoPro to be waterproof, the GoPro HERO7 Black Action Camera is the product that truly revolutionized underwater recording. Its video resolution is 1080p full HD and 4K, and it’s waterproof up to a depth of 33 feet.
The camera outperformed all of its predecessors by a huge margin, and it’s still a very good quality product by today’s standards. If you’re looking for something to get you started for underwater recordings or even for everyday use, this GoPro is for you.
The ratings and feedback for the HERO7 Action Camera are very positive; customers have appreciated the great footage that they were able to record as well as the easy-to-use features on the camera. Unlike the latest models with more complicated features, this model is more beginner-friendly.
Features include voice control, live streaming in 720p, HyperSmooth stabilization, and TimeWarp, which lets you capture incredibly stabilized time-lapse videos.
GoPro HERO10 Black Action Camera (on Amazon)
This is the latest GoPro HERO series addition, and it doesn’t disappoint. This camera is designed to provide the best adventure footage as it is the most powerful and reliable GoPro yet.
Even though it goes down to the same depth underwater as the HERO9 (10 meters), the recording quality is much better. It can record videos at 5.3k with double the frame rate and better low-light performance. This means that the underwater performance in less light will improve as well.
Speaking of improvement and performance, one of the biggest improvements to the HERO10 camera is the battery life. The battery can last up to 4 hours while recording at 5.3k. This is almost three times the battery life of the GoPro HERO9, and the battery is also fast-charging and rechargeable.
The HERO10 Black Action Camera has its own stabilizing system to allow you to capture more leveled shots underwater. It also has an incredible 155-degree field view lens. If you’re looking for the latest and best-performing GoPro to use underwater, this should be your pick.
How Deep Can the GoPro Waterproof Case Go?
A waterproof case will help you record video and take pictures when you need to go deeper underwater, such as when you’re scuba diving. On average, a GoPro with an underwater case on will be able to descend to a depth of up to 196 feet (60 meters).
This is about 100 feet more than the best depth a GoPro can go without a waterproof case on. The waterproof case that is able to take a GoPro down that deep is called the Super Suit (on Amazon).
It’s a protective case that’s designed to withstand the high pressure of going deep underwater and will prevent your GoPro’s components from getting damaged.
If you’re going to record while scuba diving, always make sure you have a protective case around your GoPro. Check that the case is properly secured to prevent the high underwater pressure from damaging the camera.
Can You Change GoPro Settings Underwater?
It’s important to have your GoPro settings adapted for underwater recording before you go diving in order to get the best results. If you forget to change the settings before you go underwater, you can change the settings underwater.
However, this feature isn’t available in all GoPro models, so test the GoPro’s controls before taking it underwater.
You can go through any shooting mode you want using the menu while underwater. Using the touchscreen or the manual buttons, you can choose any setting or camera angle that you want.
The best settings to use while shooting underwater are 60 frames per second and in 1080p. You should also go for the Wide Lens or Superview angles to record the best underwater shots.