Best AKASO Action Camera for Underwater Photography
Capturing the vibrant world beneath the waves shouldn’t require a professional diver’s salary. While GoPro dominates the headlines, AKASO has carved out a massive following by offering rugged, high-performing cameras at a fraction of the cost. After testing these units in various aquatic environments, from murky lakes to crystal-clear reefs, I’ve found that the AKASO Brave 7 is the sweet spot for most hobbyists. In this guide, we’ll break down which AKASO model best handles the unique challenges of underwater light.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best AKASO Action Camera for Underwater Photography: Detailed Reviews
AKASO Brave 7 View on Amazon View on B&H
The AKASO Brave 7 is my top recommendation because it fundamentally changes how you interact with your camera in the water. Unlike many budget cameras that require a bulky plastic housing just to survive a splash, the Brave 7 is natively waterproof down to 16 feet (5m). This makes it incredible for snorkelers who want clear audio and a responsive touch screen without the “case fog” that often ruins shots. It shoots 4K at 30fps and features a dual-screen design, allowing you to frame those underwater selfies perfectly. The Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) 2.0 is surprisingly robust, smoothing out the jitters of swimming against a current. While it lacks 4K/60fps, the color science in its “Diving Mode” is excellent, effectively filtering out the heavy blues and greens to restore natural skin tones and coral vibrance. It’s the most polished experience AKASO currently offers for the casual aquatic explorer.
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AKASO Brave 7 LE View on Amazon View on B&H
The “LE” stands for Liberty Edition, and this camera offers incredible value for those who don’t mind using an underwater housing. Unlike its brother, the standard Brave 7, the LE is only splashproof on its own. However, it comes with a high-quality 131ft (40m) waterproof case in the box. I found the dual-screen setup on this model to be particularly bright, which is a lifesaver in high-glare beach environments. It captures 20MP photos and 4K/30fps video with a level of clarity that punches way above its price point. The stabilization is decent, though it can struggle slightly in low-light conditions deep under the surface. If you are looking for a camera that can transition from a rainy mountain bike trail to a deep-sea dive without breaking the bank, this is it. It’s essentially a high-spec action camera with a budget price tag, sacrificing only the native waterproofing to save you a significant amount of money.
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AKASO EK7000 Pro View on Amazon View on B&H
The EK7000 Pro is the upgraded version of the legendary EK7000, and for under $100, it’s hard to complain about what it offers. It features a 2-inch touch screen which makes navigation much easier than the original button-only model. It shoots 4K at 25fps—which is a bit choppy for high-action scenes but works fine for slow-moving sea turtles or reef exploration. You must use the included waterproof case for any submersion, as the body itself is not water-resistant. The photo quality is 16MP, which is adequate for social media but won’t win any professional awards. One limitation to keep in mind is the lack of sophisticated image stabilization; you’ll need a steady hand or a floating handle to keep the footage usable. However, as a “first action camera” for a child or a backup device for a weekend trip, its durability and simplicity make it a fantastic bargain.
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AKASO Brave 8 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Brave 8 is AKASO’s boldest attempt to unseat the GoPro Hero lineup. It features a massive 1/2″ CMOS sensor, which is significantly larger than what you find in most budget action cams. This is a game-changer for underwater photography because it allows more light into the lens, reducing the “grain” often seen in darker depths. It supports 4K at 60fps, providing the silky-smooth motion needed for fast-moving marine life. It is also natively waterproof to 33 feet (10m), doubling the depth of the Brave 7 without a case. I particularly love the “Super Wide” field of view, which captures the vastness of the ocean floor beautifully. The only downside is the price, which is higher than other AKASO models, and the software can occasionally be finicky compared to premium brands. Still, for the hardware specs you’re getting, it’s an absolute beast that produces professional-grade underwater imagery for those willing to spend a bit more.
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AKASO V50X View on Amazon View on B&H
The AKASO V50X is often overlooked, but it’s a hidden gem for underwater use. What sets it apart is the ability to adjust the viewing angle between Super Wide, Wide, Medium, and Narrow. This is incredibly helpful when you want to focus on a specific subject, like a macro shot of a sea anemone, without the fish-eye distortion common in wide lenses. It offers native 4K/30fps and comes with a case rated for 131 feet (40m). The touch screen is highly intuitive, and the battery life is surprisingly resilient in colder water temperatures. I found the color saturation to be very punchy right out of the box, which makes reef shots look vibrant and “ready for Instagram” without much post-processing. While it doesn’t have the dual-screen of the Brave series, its simplicity and reliable stabilization make it a solid companion for any diver who prioritizes ease of use over flashy extra features.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose an AKASO Camera for Underwater Use
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| AKASO Brave 7 | All-around Snorkeling | ★★★★★ | Check |
| AKASO Brave 7 LE | Budget Versatility | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| AKASO EK7000 Pro | Extreme Budget | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| AKASO Brave 8 | Premium Quality | ★★★★★ | Check |
| AKASO V50X | Ease of Use | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a red filter for my AKASO camera?
If you are snorkeling in shallow water (less than 15 feet), the built-in “Diving Mode” on most AKASO cameras is usually enough to balance the colors. However, once you descend deeper than 20 feet, the water absorbs almost all red light. In these cases, a physical red filter attached to the outside of your waterproof housing will provide much better color accuracy than software alone, preventing your footage from looking overly blue or green.
Can I use the touch screen while the camera is in the waterproof case?
Generally, no. Most waterproof housings have hard plastic backs that prevent the touch screen from registering your finger. To change settings underwater, you must use the physical buttons on the camera body. This is why it is vital to set your resolution, frame rate, and “Diving Mode” before you seal the case and jump in the water. Cameras like the Brave 7 with native waterproofing are much easier to adjust on the surface.
How long does the battery last while filming underwater?
On average, you can expect about 60 to 90 minutes of continuous 4K filming. However, battery life drops significantly in colder water or if you have both screens and Wi-Fi turned on. I always recommend carrying at least one spare battery and keeping the camera off between sightings. Most AKASO kits conveniently include two batteries and a dual-slot charger, which is a massive advantage over more expensive competitors that sell these separately.
What SD card should I use for 4K underwater video?
To avoid “file writing” errors or corrupted footage, you must use a U3-rated microSD card. I recommend a 64GB or 128GB card from a reputable brand like SanDisk or Samsung. Underwater photography often involves bursts of action, and a slow card won’t be able to keep up with the high data rates of 4K video. Always format the card inside the camera before your first dive to ensure the file system is properly synced.
Is the AKASO Brave 7 really waterproof without a case?
Yes, the AKASO Brave 7 is rated IPX8, meaning it can be submerged down to 16 feet (5 meters) without any external housing. This is perfect for snorkeling and shallow swimming. However, you must ensure that the battery and port doors are tightly locked and the rubber seals are free of sand or hair. For scuba diving or any activity where you might drop the camera deeper, you should definitely use the included 131-foot waterproof case.
Final Verdict
For most users, the AKASO Brave 7 is the clear winner due to its native waterproofing and excellent “Diving Mode.” If you are a serious diver looking for the best possible image quality, the Brave 8 is worth the extra investment for its larger sensor. However, if you’re just looking for a fun camera to take on a family beach vacation, the EK7000 Pro offers everything you need at a price that won’t stress you out if it gets lost.