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The Best Cheap Waterproof Camera

Updated on March 18, 2014

Get a cheap underwater camera that takes great photos

Are you looking for an affordable rugged camera that can shoot excellent quality photos? You can find underwater cameras under $100 on the market, but the resolution on these models is typically low and they don't offer many features. If you're going on a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling adventure, you probably don't want to choose one of those models.

Fortunately, for under $200, you can choose from a few rugged underwater models that not only take great photos, but also capture HD video as well. Here's a look some of the best cheap waterproof cameras for 2014.

(Image: Panasonic TS25 available on Amazon. See link below.)

The Best Cheap Waterproof Camera - Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS25

The Panasonic TS25 takes the title for best cheap waterproof camera due to its high resolution, four-way rugged protection, ability to shoot HD video, in-camera editing features and its excellent price.

The TS25 is waterproof down to 23 feet, shockproof for falls from up to 5 feet, freezeproof down to 14°F and dust proof. So it can go just about anywhere. And with a 16 MP sensor, 4x optical zoom (8x digital zoom) and 720p HD video, you're sure to get great shots with this little point-and-shoot. The Lumix also offers creative panorama and 12 in-camera filter effects.

There are definitely more expensive and feature-laden waterproof models on the market from big names like Nikon and Canon, but if you're looking to get a decent camera at a good price, you can't go wrong with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS25 waterproof camera.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS25 16.1 MP Tough Digital Camera with 8x Intelligent Zoom (Blue)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS25 16.1 MP Tough Digital Camera with 8x Intelligent Zoom (Blue)
Product description: The FinePix XP50 is outstandingly durable. It's waterproof to a depth of 5m (15 feet) and can capture both movies and still images underwater. The camera's casing will withstand shocks or drops from a height of 1.5m, while cold environments are also no problem for this rough and ready device. The FinePix XP50 can withstand temperatures down to -10�C and dust is never a problem, with all the camera's access points specially sealed for ultimate protection.
 

See It in Action - Sample video from the Lumix TS25

What type of images can you capture with a rugged camera? Take a look at this video for a sample. These cameras are great for use in the pool, ocean, lake or local water park.

An Affordable Runner-Up - Nikon Coolpix S31

What sets the Nikon S31 apart from other underwater digital cameras is its ease-of-use. Nikon is marketing this as a camera that the whole family can use, from kids to grandparents, so they've simplified the menus and controls. Then they added a whole host of fun options, such as in-camera albums and slideshows, and special effects such as starbursts, soft focus and digital borders.

Some of these options will probably appeal more to kids than adults, but the family-friendly point-and-shoot comes with solid photo shooting capabilities that everyone will appreciate. It has a 10.1 MP sensor, 3x zoom and 720p HD video. It's waterproof to 9.8 feet, shockproof to 2.6 feet and dustproof. And it's priced to appeal to families.

If you need a simple model that the kids can use, too, you won't find a cheap waterproof camera that's easier to use than this one. Check out my article on the Best Nikon for Kids to see photos my 5-year-old and 11-year-old kids took with the predecessor, the Nikon S30, to get an idea of what's possible.

The S31 is available in blue, pink, white, brown or yellow.

More Options to Consider - Find other underwater models

Want some other options to consider? The following list shows the bestselling models in Amazon's underwater camera category and is updated daily so you can see what's popular. Many of these cameras will be much more expensive than the models shown above, but you can find mid-range models that achieve a good balance between price and features. Also, don't forget that these waterproof, shockproof models are great for shooting on land, too. They're perfect for travel!

SVP 18MP Pink WP6800 2.4" LCD Digital Waterproof Camera
SVP 18MP Pink WP6800 2.4" LCD Digital Waterproof Camera
These models are cheap, but don't expect great quality.
 

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Take Photos Anywhere

Rugged cameras are great for water parks, snorkeling, swimming, kayaking or any other activity in or around water. But don't forget they're also great for shooting on land!

Have You Ever Owned a Waterproof Camera? - Or is it still on your wish list?

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Have you ever owned a camera you could use underwater?

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