Waterproof Cameras Group Test

If you're heading off on your summer holidays, the chances are that when it comes to taking snaps around the pool or on the beach you're likely to want to leave the camera in your bag or locked in the safe. After all, we all know how kindly one's compact or DSLR reacts to a bit of a dip or being on the receiving end of a well-built sandcastle.

The good news for consumers is that there has never been a better time to be in the market for a portable waterproof camera. Not only do most manufacturers now have one - if not several - waterproof model in their compact camera line-up, but the majority of the models offer more durability and functionality than ever before.

We've picked six of the market leaders in waterproof cameras and put them through their paces. The sextet not only offers similar lifeproofing capabilities, but are also fairly evenly matched in the imaging department - the only major differences between them being the varying advanced functionality offered, and this is generally reflected in the models' price-tags. So, if you're thinking of bagging a beach snapper for the summer, or something more hardy for your adventure holidays, read on to find out which were most up to the task. In assessing what makes a good waterproof camera, there are several factors to consider. Handling is of paramount importance as the last thing you want in difficult conditions is to be worrying about dropping the camera or fumbling about with controls.

A good grip, prominent buttons and simple navigation are all crucial for a good waterproof camera - as is the legibility of the screen, as you may be using the camera in very bright light. We'll give extra brownie points too for any special features that will enhance the user experience in outdoors situations, such as GPS technology and a compass, for example. Finally, most importantly, the image quality. Focusing, exposure, white balance, dynamic range, colour, noise and distortion are all examined in the final images.

Take a look at the following pages, to see our tests of specific waterproof cameas on the market right now.