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7 best waterproof mobile phones for capturing stunning underwater photos in 2023

Last Published on Mar 22, 2023 16:28 IST
dot By: Affiliate Desk

Summary:

Looking for the best waterproof mobile phones for underwater photography in 2023? Check out our top 7 picks that offer exceptional camera performance. Read More


In the evolving landscape of mobile technology, capturing stunning underwater photos has become an exciting frontier. The demand for waterproof mobile phones has intensified, driven by adventurers, photographers, and enthusiasts who seek to document the mesmerizing world beneath the waves. This article presents a curated list of the 7 best waterproof mobile phones that excel not only in durability but also in delivering exceptional photographic experiences underwater.

From innovative camera technologies that capture the vibrant hues of underwater life to robust build quality that guarantees protection against moisture, these mobile phones push boundaries to deliver unmatched performance even in challenging aquatic environments. This comprehensive guide not only highlights the key specifications and features of each device but also delves into their unique capabilities when it comes to underwater photography. Whether you're a professional photographer or an enthusiast looking to capture the beauty of underwater landscapes, this guide will assist you in making an informed decision and choosing a waterproof mobile phone that aligns with your vision and passion.

1. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a powerful and feature-packed waterproof mobile phone with a stunning 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, providing an immersive viewing experience. It features a triple-lens camera system on the back that includes a 108MP primary lens, a 48MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens that allows you to capture stunning photos and videos on land and underwater. The phone is IP68 rated, making it water-resistant up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. It comes with a 5000mAh battery that supports fast charging, ensuring that you never run out of battery while on the go.

Specifications:

  • Display: 6.8 inches
  • Processor: Snapdragon 898
  • RAM: 12 GB
  • Internal storage: 256 GB/512 GB
  • Rear camera: 108MP primary lens, 48MP telephoto lens, and 12MP ultra-wide lens
  • Front camera: 40MP
  • Battery: 5000mAh
  • IP rating: IP68
ProsCons
Stunning 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED displayWaterproof mobile phones price is expensive
Triple-lens camera system for excellent photos, IP68 rating for water resistance up to 1.5m deep 

2. OnePlus 10 Pro


OnePlus 10 Pro 5G is a premium waterproof mobile phone with a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with an impressive 120Hz refresh rate. It is equipped with a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, 12GB RAM, and up to 256GB internal storage that delivers exceptional performance and speed. It has a quad-lens camera system on the back that features a 64MP primary lens, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, an 8MP telephoto lens, and a 2MP monochrome lens, allowing you to capture stunning photos and videos both on land and underwater. The phone is IP68 rated, making it water-resistant up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes.

Specifications:

  • Display: 6.7 inches
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
  • RAM: 12GB
  • Internal storage: 256GB
  • Rear camera: 64MP primary lens, 50MP ultra-wide lens, 8MP telephoto lens, and 2MP monochrome lens
  • Front camera: 32MP
  • Battery: 4500mAh, non-removable, fast charging support
  • IP rating: IP68
ProsCons
IP68 rating for water resistance up to 1.5m deepSmaller battery compared to other flagships
Quad-lens camera system with 64MP primary lens, Dual sim waterproof mobile phone 

3. Xiaomi 13 Pro
The Xiaomi 13 Pro is a waterproof mobile phone designed to help you capture amazing photos and videos underwater. It is IP68 rated, which means it is dustproof and can withstand immersion in water up to 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes. This feature makes it an ideal choice for those who love to take pictures or shoot videos underwater. In addition to its waterproof capabilities, the Xiaomi 13 Pro has a triple-lens camera system on the back. It features a 108MP primary lens, a 13MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro lens, which allows you to take stunning photos and videos both on land and underwater.

Specifications:

  • Display: 6.67 inches
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB
  • Rear Camera: 108MP primary lens, 13MP ultra-wide lens, 5MP macro lens
  • Front Camera: 20MP
  • Battery: 4520mAh
  • IP Rating: IP68
ProsCons
Smooth and responsive 120Hz AMOLED displayNo wireless charging
Waterproof and dustproof with IP68 rating 
Excellent camera performance 

4. Samsung Galaxy S23 5G

The Samsung Galaxy S23 5G in Phantom Black offers impressive features that cater to photography enthusiasts and eco-conscious users alike. With Nightography's AI-enhanced capabilities, capturing vibrant and clear night shots becomes a breeze. The phone's commitment to sustainability shines through its design, crafted from recycled materials and packaged in eco-friendly materials. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform, the device ensures a seamless gaming experience without compromising battery life.

Specifications:

  • Display: Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, 6.1 inches
  • Processor: Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 256 GB
  • Main Camera: Triple setup, including 50 MP main sensor and 12 MP ultrawide lens
  • Selfie Camera: 12 MP
  • Battery: 10090 mAh
  • IP68 dust/water resistance
ProsCons
Advanced Nightography AI for impressive low-light photographyDisplay size might not suit all preferences
Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor for smooth gaming 

5. Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max
The Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max is a premium flagship device with impressive features. It has a sleek, sophisticated design, a large and vibrant display, and a powerful camera system that can capture stunning photos and videos. One of its key features is its water-resistant rating, which allows it to be submerged up to 6 meters for up to 30 minutes. This makes it a great choice for underwater photography enthusiasts who want a high-end device that can handle their needs.

Specifications:

  • Display: 6.7 inches
  • Processor: A18 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
  • Rear Camera: 12MP wide, 12MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide, LiDAR scanner
  • Front Camera: 12MP TrueDepth
  • Battery: 4,500mAhIP
  • Rating: IP68
ProsCons
Impressive water-resistant rating for underwater photographyExpensive price point
Powerful camera system with LiDAR scanner, Large and vibrant display 

6. OnePlus 11 5G
The OnePlus 11 5G boasts a powerful camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with OIS support, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a 32MP telephoto lens with 2X optical zoom, ensuring exceptional photography versatility. With an array of camera modes and a high refresh rate 6.7-inch AMOLED QHD display, it caters to various creative needs. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, 16 GB RAM, and 256 GB storage ensure seamless performance. The 100W SUPERVOOC charging capability ensures quick power replenishment.

Specifications:

  • Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED QHD with 120Hz refresh rate and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
  • Camera: 50MP + 48MP + 32MP (Main, Ultrawide, Telephoto) + 16MP (Front)
  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
  • RAM: 16 GB
  • Storage: 256 GB
  • Battery: 5000 mAh with 100W SUPERVOOC charging
  • OS: OxygenOS based on Android 13
ProsCons
Versatile camera system with multiple modesPotentially large size might not suit all users
Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor 

7. Xiaomi 12 Pro
The Xiaomi 12 Pro in Noir Black offers an impressive photography experience with its 50+50+50MP flagship cameras featuring OIS. The 6.73'' WQHD+ AMOLED display delivers stunning visuals at 120Hz, and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor ensures exceptional performance. The device boasts a rapid 120W HyperCharger for its 4600mAh battery and supports wireless charging. The Harman Kardon-tuned quad stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio certification enhance the audio experience.


Specifications:

  • Display: 6.73'' WQHD+ 120Hz AMOLED
  • Camera: Triple 50MP + 50MP + 50MP (Main, Telephoto, Ultra-wide) + 32MP (Front)
  • Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 256 GB
  • Battery: 4600mAh with 120W HyperCharger
  • Sound: Quad stereo speakers with Harman Kardon tuning and Dolby Atmos certification
ProsCons

Impressive triple-camera setup with OIS

Limited RAM configuration options

Powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor 

Three best features for consumers:

ProductFeature 1Feature 2Feature 3
Front Camera LensBack Camera LensWater Resistance
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra40MP108MP primary lens, 48MP telephoto lens, and 12MP ultra-wide lensIP68
OnePlus 10 Pro32MP64MP primary lens, 50MP ultra-wide lens, 8MP telephoto lens, and 2MP monochrome lensIP68
Xiaomi 13 Pro20MP108MP primary lens, 13MP ultra-wide lens, 5MP macro lensIP68
Samsung S23 5G 12 MPTriple setup, including 50 MP main sensor and 12 MP ultrawide lensIP68
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max12MP TrueDepth12MP wide, 12MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide, LiDAR scannerIP68
OnePlus 11 5G16 MP50MP + 48MP + 32MP (Main, Ultrawide, Telephoto)IP68
Xiaomi 12 Pro 5G16MPTriple 50MP + 50MP + 50MP (Main, Telephoto, Ultra-wide)IP68

Best value for money

The Xiaomi 13 Pro is the clear winner when it comes to the best value for money among the waterproof mobile phones listed in this article. With its impressive 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 870 chipset, 5G connectivity, and triple rear camera setup that includes a 108MP primary sensor, the Xiaomi 13 Pro delivers flagship-level performance at a mid-range price point. It also features a large 4500mAh battery that supports 67W fast charging, ensuring that it lasts all day and can be charged quickly when needed. Overall, the Xiaomi 13 Pro is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a waterproof mobile phone that delivers exceptional value for money.

Best overall product

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is undoubtedly the best overall product in the waterproof mobile phone category. It boasts a stunning 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz, providing an immersive viewing experience. Under the hood, it is powered by the Exynos 2200 chipset, coupled with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage, making it one of the most powerful smartphones on the market. It also features a quad-camera setup that includes a 108MP primary sensor, a 10MP periscope telephoto lens, a 10MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 12MP telephoto lens, ensuring that it captures exceptional photos and videos. It also supports 5G connectivity, has a large 5000mAh battery, and supports fast and wireless charging. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a top-of-the-line waterproof mobile phone with the best features and performance.

How to find the perfect waterproof mobile phones in India?

When looking for the perfect waterproof mobile phone, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to consider the phone's IP rating, as this will indicate how waterproof and dustproof it is. A phone with a higher IP rating will be more resistant to water and dust, making it ideal for those frequently in wet or dusty environments. Additionally, it's important to consider the phone's specifications, such as its display, processor, RAM, and storage. A high-quality display will ensure that your phone is easy to use and provides a great viewing experience. In contrast, a powerful processor, ample RAM, and ample storage will ensure that your phone can handle all of your apps and multitasking needs. Another crucial factor to consider is the camera quality. Many people use their smartphones as their primary camera, so choosing a phone with a camera that meets your needs is important. A phone with a high-resolution primary camera and additional lenses, such as an ultra-wide or telephoto lens, can provide an exceptional photo and video quality.

Best waterproof mobile phones

The price range of waterproof phones for underwater photography varies widely. Budget models can be found for around 10,000, while high-end models can cost upwards of 1 lakh or more.
 

As of 2023, some of the newest releases of waterproof phones for underwater photography include the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, the iPhone 14 Pro, and the Google Pixel 7. These models offer high-end features and improved waterproofing capabilities.
 

The effectiveness of waterproof phones for underwater photography depends on the quality of the phone's waterproofing and camera. High-end models are generally more effective than budget models, but even mid-range models can produce good results.

A waterproof phone for underwater photography should have a high rating, a good camera with manual controls, and preferably a wide-angle lens. Some models offer underwater shooting modes, image stabilisation, and RAW capture.

 

The maximum depth that waterproof phones can withstand varies by model, but most high-end models can withstand depths of up to 10 meters or more. It's important to check the specifications of your specific phone to ensure its depth rating.

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so ... we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority. Read more

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