Are GoPro cameras waterproof? The simple answer is Yes. Generally, GoPro cameras are rigid, waterproof, durable, and reliable. They are built for use in severe conditions and harsh terrains, such as underwater.
Aside from being waterproof, GoPro cameras have a wide range of features that make them great for different types of shots underwater and anywhere. Thus, you have to consider purchasing a GoPro camera if you are new to water sports or adventures. The camera allows you to record your best moments and experiences without the risk or worry of getting your camera damaged when in contact with water.
Unlike conventional DSLR and mirrorless cameras, GoPro cameras are designed to handle shooting even in the most extreme conditions. However, are all of the models waterproof? And how deep and how long can they survive in water? Let us find out!
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GoPro Hero 11
Can GoPro be used in the rain?
Yes, all the latest GoPro cameras are waterproof and can be used for rain photography without protective housing equipment. However, ensure to adhere to all safety precautions when using your GoPro camera in the rain or underwater.
Are GoPro Cameras Waterproof Without Protective Underwater Housing?
Again, the simple answer is yes. GoPro cameras starting from the Hero5 to the newly released flagship Hero11 Black are waterproof and can survive up to 33 feet (10 meters) without extra underwater housing cases as long as the little door that hides the battery is attached and properly sealed.
On the contrary, the GoPro MAX is only waterproof up to 16 feet (5 meters). Generally, GoPro did not build the older generations of GoPro cameras, such as the 4 and the 3, to be water-resistant. So, users will need external underwater camera cases to help protect these previous models when working in wet environments.
The new models are built to be water-resistant, featuring sturdy waterproof body constructions, making them good underwater devices. This means they can conveniently stand up to rain and splash.
Although the newer models are water-resistant, you will have to use a waterproof housing case if you wish to go any deeper than the designated degree. A GoPro protective housing case will allow you to use the camera at a maximum depth of 196 feet (60 meters) and it also helps to protect the device against debris and dirt.
Are All The Older And Newer GoPro Models Waterproof?
Not all GoPro cameras are waterproof or water-resistant. The older models, such as HERO4 Black and Silver and HERO3+ Black and Silver, are not waterproof. They require protective housing cases to survive underwater or in wet environments.
An Older Generation GoPro Camera
On the other hand, all newer GoPro models are waterproof. So you can use them underwater, under the rain, and in wet environments, to specific depths without cases.
A Newer Generation GoPro Camera
How Deep And How Long Can GoPro Cameras Survive In Water?
GoPro has several cameras available, and each model features different capacities, abilities, and options. Thus, below are the depth ratings of some of the best GoPro cameras.
GoPro Hero11 – 33ft/10m
The GoPro Hero11 Black, Hero11 Black Creator Edition, and Hero11 Black Mini flagship cameras deliver the best video quality, recording up to 5.3k high-res video and up to 27 megapixels of photographs. The Hero11 features the newest and highest HyperSmooth 5.0 technology with built-in Horizon Lock and AutoBoost for improved in-camera video stabilization.
Like some previous models, all the GoPro Hero11 editions can be dipped in the water down to 33 feet without protective gear if the door is closed. The Hero11 has a water-repelling lens cover for extra clarity and viewing in water. If you want to dive deeper than 10 meters, you must use the GoPros’ protective housing, which makes the camera waterproof down to a depth rating of 196ft (60 meters).
GoPro Hero10 And Hero9 Black – 33ft/10m
Similarly to the Hero11, GoPro Hero10 and Hero9 Black are rugged and can deliver 5.3K and 5k high-resolution videos alongside the ability to capture 23 and 20 megapixels pictures, respectively. Both can survive up to 33 feet (10 meters) in water with protective cases, provided the doors are closed. An additional underwater housing case is required if you want to dive deeper. GoPro protective housing will make the cameras waterproof to 196 feet (60 meters).
GoPro Hero8 Black
The GoPro Hero8 Black can capture and deliver 4K high-resolution cinematic videos and 12 megapixels photos. The camera features in-built image stabilization and a durable body design.
The Hero8 Black is water-resistant to 33 feet (10 meters). So, you won’t need an additional waterproof housing case except if you want to dive deeper. A GoPro housing case will increase the Hero8 depth rating to 196 feet (60 meters).
GoPro Max – 16ft/5m
The GoPro Max offers high-resolution 360-degree 6K videos and 16.6 megapixels 360 photos. The camera has built-in stabilization for smooth footage recording. It can survive in water to a depth of 5m (16ft) without a housing, provided the door is closed before exposing the device to water. You will have to use the protective housing case if you desire to dive deeper.
GoPro Hero7 White, Hero7 Silver, And Hero7 Black – 33ft (10m)
The GoPro Hero7 can record and deliver 4K cinematic videos at 60fps and 12 megapixels photos. The popular Hero7 Black is waterproof to a depth rating of 33 feet (10 meters) with the door closed. Therefore, ensure the camera doors are closed before exposing them to the water. Similarly to the other model, you must use an additional waterproof housing case if you want to dive deeper.
GoPro Hero (2018), Hero6 Black, Hero5 Black – 33ft (10m)
GoPro HERO (2018), HERO6 Black, and HERO5 Black can survive up to 33 feet (10 meters) in water without protective housing cases. HERO (2018), HERO6 Black, and HERO5 Black users can dive deeper by using the “Super Suit housing,” which increases the cameras’ depth rating to as deep as 60 meters.
GoPro Fusion-16ft/5m
The GoPro Fusion can capture 360 5.2K videos and 18 megapixels of photos. Fusion is water-resistant and can survive up to 5m (16 feet) without a protective housing, provided the door is closed before exposure to liquid.
GoPro Session, Hero4 Session, And Hero5 Session
The Session cameras are GoPros’s first naturally waterproof models. The GoPro Session cameras are waterproof to a depth of 10m (33′) without the need for extra protective housing.
Note: GoPro has officially discontinued the Session cameras.
All other GoPro cameras ranging from Hero 2014 down to the HD Hero 0riginal, are waterproof up to 196 feet (60 meters) with protective housing cases. The Standard Definition Hero Camera can be taken down to a depth rating of 100 feet underwater when it is in the Quick-release Housing or the Wrist HERO Housing.
GoPro Protective Housing Accessory – 196ft (60 meters)
GoPro housing accessories are designed to provide GoPro cameras additional protection against liquid substances. The official GoPro protecting case allows users to reach a depth rate of 196 feet (60 meters) underwater. This enables divers and marine enthusiasts to explore the depth of the waters.
Aside from this, GoPro underwater protective cases also protect your GoPro camera from mud, dirt, and debris during extreme activities, especially in harsh places.
Are GoPro Underwater Protective Houses Compulsory For All GoPro Cameras?
No, GoPro underwater housing cases are not compulsory for all GoPro cameras. GoPros cameras, especially the modern ones, such as the Hero7, Hero8, Hero10, and Hero11, are waterproof straight out of the box. So housing cases are not necessary when working in wet locations.
The GoPro Hero4 and Hero3+ (including sub-models) are not waterproof with a case, but they come with Standard Housing, capable of surviving depths of up to 131 feet (40 meters) underwater. The HD Hero Original, HD Hero2, and Hero3 GoPro cameras also come in a protective waterproof house, capable of withstanding depths of up to 197 feet (60 meters).
Note: The underwater housing cases for the older GoPro cameras are separately purchased.
Generally, the underwater cases are only compulsory if you want to dive with any of the older models of GoPro. If you are using a newer GoPro model, a protective case is not needed, except if you want to dive deeper than 33 feet (10 meters).
Can You Use GoPro Cameras In Saltwater Without Additional Waterproof Cases?
You can use your GoPro camera in either freshwater or saltwater without additional underwater protective cases. Although salt water can be corrosive, the camera will not get damaged if you keep the door closed and dive within the recommended depth. However, you must thoroughly rinse your GoPro camera with fresh water after use in salt water.
6 Tips On How To Use Your GoPro Camera Underwater With Or Without Protective Cases
Shooting pictures and recording videos with your GoPro camera can be fun and straightforward underwater. However, you will need to take some precautions to avoid unforeseen damages. Thus, below are some tips to help you get the maximum benefit of using your GoPro.
Check Your Camera Before Jumping Into The water
Before jumping into the water with your GoPro, you will want to check and be sure that the camera is free of dirt, mud, debris, and a white rubber gasket that could compromise the effectiveness, tightness, and integrity of the waterproof housing case. Furthermore, ensure that the door latch is closed before exposing the camera to liquid. Again, ensure the case is fully sealed before you get into the water.
Charge And Insert The Battery
For maximum experience underwater, you might want to fully charge and insert the battery before entering the water. You might find it difficult or impossible to change or insert a battery into your GoPro camera underwater. So, ensure to do it before getting in.
Clean The Lens
A clean camera lens captures and delivers spot-free pictures and high-res videos underwater. Thus, ensure to thoroughly clean your GoPro camera lens with an appropriate lens cleaning kit.
Use Only Compatible Housing Cases
GoPro cameras have different underwater housing cases. Some models use similar protective houses, while others do not. For instance, Hero11 Black, Hero10 Black, and Hero9 Black are compatible with GoPro Protective Housing. Using incompatible cases can damage the camera or housing.
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Adjust Your Camera Settings
Although GoPro cameras feature intuitive controls- the touchscreens are designed to work underwater even when wet. Regardless, we recommend adjusting the basic camera setting before entering the water. We also recommend learning or mastering the GoPro voice commands for ease of operation.
Clean Up After Use
Do not forget to clean your camera after each use. It is always a good idea to safely remove and wash your GoPro camera with fresh water after using it in saltwater or a dirty environment.
What Are Some Disadvantages Of Using GoPro Waterproof Cases?
GoPro protective housing cases are good and allow users to explore the depth of the waters. However, waterproof cases do have some disadvantages:
- They make the camera feel heavier
- They are not compatible with all GoPro models
- They can make controls difficult underwater.