1| Ricoh WG-70 R5 565 cameraworld.co.za Video: 1 080p at 30fps Stills resolution: 16MP Waterproof: 14m
If you’re looking for a budget version of the Olympus Tough TG-6, this is it. Both feature underwater modes (less refined in the Ricoh), image stabilisation, a manual focus mode and 1cm focus distance – all handy underwater – and the Ricoh has a slight resolution advantage. Sadly, its narrower lens and aperture lets in less light; it doesn’t have the Olympus’ environmental sensors and its video resolution lets it down, so you may be better off with a DJI Osmo Action for a grand less, or a GoPro Hero8 for a 1.5k more. – Anton Crone
2| Volkano Extreme Series 4K UHD Action Camera
R1 099 outdoorwarehouse.co.za Video: 4K at 30fps, 1 080P at 60fps Stills resolution: 8MP Waterproof: 30m (with casing)
There’s not a whole lot to choose between in the battle of the entry-level action cameras. The Volkano and the Voyager look eerily similar to each other and their specs are pretty similar, too. The 2” LCD screens, mounts (for handlebars and helmets), waterproofing, 170° wide-angle lens and battery life are all fairly equal. The notable difference is in the megapixels of their images – the Volkano has 8MP whereas the Voyager has 12MP. The Volkano does, however, outperform its counterpart in some features: it has a 4x digital zoom, slow-motion and time-lapse functions and can capture 60fps at 1 080P.
3| Olympus Tough TG-6 R8 995 ormsdirect.co.za Video: 4K at 30fps Stills resolution: 12MP Waterproof: 15m
It may look out of place in this group, but there’s a lot to be said for this rocksolid shooter, especially if you enjoy underwater photography. Fifteen metres is a respectable depth for snorkellers, and a host of features make it an attractive tool for capturing marine life. Five underwater modes mean you can match the situation you’re in, from marinescapes to macro shots. The 1 cm focusing distance gets you super close to capture intricate images of sea anemones and nudibranchs, and the lens’ ability to go to f/2.0 at its widest means it lets in almost twice as much light as its closest rivals, a boon below and above water. A standout feature of the TG-6 is its ability to capture data from its environmental sensors including a GPS, altimeter/ depth gauge, compass, accelerometer and thermometer. These can be attached to photos and are a handy way to find and return to remarkable locations. A number of conversion lenses and a ring flash adapter can be attached for more serious underwater photography. Its major failing, however, is a 12mp sensor which renders its image quality no better than a smartphone. – Anton Crone
4| Voyager Explorer 4K UHD Action Camera R1 499 game.co.za Video: 4K at 30fps, 720 at 60fps Stills resolution: 12MP Waterproof: 30m (with casing)
The Voyager Explorer is the more attractive option over the Volkano when it comes to the quality of the images. If you’ll be using your action cam more for stills than video – and would prefer an affordable option – then the Voyager is your best bet. There’s also the potential to capture aerial footage as the Voyager Hurricane Drone has a holder for the Voyager Explorer Action Camera. Neither of these entry-level cameras link up with Wi-Fi well and the stabilisation isn’t top quality so I wouldn’t recomend either for hardcore athletes. They’re aimed more at kids and hobbyists.