Including myself a lot of scuba divers want to record their dive. This opens the question is if the camera you use in particular a GoPro Hero is suitable for scuba diving and if it is waterproof. So, is GoPro Hero waterproof?
Yes, all current GoPro models are waterproof. That is models that start from Hero5 upwards. There are waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) out of the box except for the GoPro Max which is waterproof up to 16 feet (5 meters).
In today’s post, we will go through in more detail Is GoPro Hero waterproof, so let’s get started!
Read more on common questions asked by divers
Is GoPro Hero Waterproof?
Yes, all current GoPro models are waterproof. That is models that start from Hero5 upwards. There are waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) except for the GoPro Max which is waterproof up to 16 feet (5 meters).
Can A GoPro Go Underwater?
Yes, a GoPro camera can be used underwater straight away simply outta the box. The depth depends on the model of GoPro but typically the HERO models it is up to 33 feet (10 meters) and lower for the GoPro MAX.
It is advised to use a protective GoPro waterproof case, as to it is better to be safe than sorry.
Can GoPros Go In Salt Water?
Yes a GoPro camera can be used in salt water and freshwater. Just remember that salt water can be corrosive, so you need to rinse the camera fresh water.
Is GoPro Good For Scuba Diving?
Yes, GoPros are good for scuba diving. Even though GoPro Heros are waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters). It is safer to get waterproof housing which can increase the the depth you can go considerably. And you will dive deeper than 33 feet (10 meters).
Is GoPro Good For Underwater Photography?
Depends, if you are a beginner or average person a GoPro is a great option to capture pictures when underwater. The GoPro’s do have limitations so for a professional photographer it is not as good.
Where Can You Mount Your GoPro For Scuba Diving?
Where to place a GoPro while scuba diving is a personal preference. And a little bit of try and error. There are a number of places to mount a GoPro, these are as follows.
- Head Mounted
- Wrist Mount
- Mask Mount
- Floaty Handle
- Extendable Grip
Head Mounted
A head mounted approach involves getting a head strap to attach the GoPro. It is not as popular and can have difficulty with using with diving goggles. The other issue is that bubbles can block the camera.
Wrist Mount
The wrist mount is regularly used by by scuba divers. It does involves getting a GoPro wrist strap. Each method will need some practice to aim correctly.
The reason it is popular is it is hands free but the downside is that you can easy bang it against something and the GoPro can move off.
Mask Mount
It is possible to get a diving mask where you can attach a GoPro to it. These are not common for scuba divers.
The pro with the mask mount is that it is hands free but the con that the bubbles might block the cameras view when diving.
Floaty Handle
The floating handle is a popular approach with scuba divers. This handle will float if you lose the camera making it easier to find.
And it is just aim and point. But it is not completely hands-free.
Extendable Grip
The extendable grip is the most popular approach and is very similar to a selfie stick. The pros is that if you drop it, it will float. Along with unobstructed camera views where you just need to point and aim. The con is that it is not completely hands free.
Wrapping Up
Finally, all current GoPro Hero models are waterproof. That is models that start from Hero5 upwards. These are typically waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) except for the GoPro Max which is waterproof up to 16 feet (5 meters).
And that’s it for now! I’d love to know if this guide on is GoPro Hero waterproof has helped you. Let me know if you have any questions and let me know if there is more to add.