Smartphone housing image against an underwater background

Underwater Smartphone Housings: Our Top 3 Choices for Diving

Smartphones have become incredibly powerful tools for capturing stunning photos and videos. (Heck, some movies are even shot entirely on iPhones!) But when it comes to taking that tech underwater, things can get a little... dicey. I mean, my attempts at filming anything on my phone usually end up looking like a Blair Witch sequel – all shaky and nauseating. Thankfully, we've got a solution: underwater smartphone housings! These handy gadgets let you take your phone to depths that would make even the bravest sea creature think twice, opening up a whole new world of underwater photography and videography.

Today, we're taking a closer look at what we consider to be the top 3 underwater smartphone housings on the market: the Oceanic+ Dive Housing, the SeaLife SportDiver Ultra, and the Divevolk SeaTouch 4 Max Plus. Each has its own unique strengths and features, so let's dive in and see which one is the perfect fit for your underwater adventures.

Oceanic+ Dive Housing for iPhone: The Tech-Savvy Diver's Dream

The Oceanic+ Dive Housing is more than just a waterproof case; it's a dive computer and a camera housing rolled into one. Designed specifically for iPhones, this housing seamlessly integrates with the Oceanic+ app to provide a powerful and user-friendly diving experience.

  • Key Features:

    • Dive Computer Functionality: This housing runs the same Oceanic+ app developed for the Apple Watch Ultra, offering comprehensive dive computer functions with customizable displays, safety features, and even a variometer (ascent rate indicator).

    • Air Integration: Connect up to eight Descent T2 Tank Pods (sold separately) for real-time tank pressure monitoring and gas management.

    • Automatic Vacuum System: The housing boasts an automatic vacuum pump with a seal check and an integrated leak detector, ensuring a watertight seal and providing peace of mind.

    • Ergonomic Design: The over-molded handle offers a secure and comfortable grip, while the included wrist lanyard adds an extra layer of security.

    • App Integration: The Oceanic+ app for iPhone allows you to track and share your dive data, synchronize your dive logs with your Apple Watch Ultra, and access a variety of tools and features to enhance your diving experience.

  • Who It's For: The Oceanic+ Dive Housing is ideal for iPhone users who want a housing that doubles as a full-featured dive computer. It's perfect for divers who appreciate advanced technology, data tracking, and seamless integration with their Apple devices.

SeaLife SportDiver Ultra: The Versatile and User-Friendly Option

The SeaLife SportDiver Ultra is a compact and user-friendly underwater housing for smartphones. It's designed to be easy to use, even with dive gloves, and it's compatible with a wide range of Android and iPhone models.

  • Key Features:

    • Wide Compatibility: The SportDiver Ultra housing will encase most Android models, including all larger Samsung S Series Ultra models and Google’s Pixel range, and all iPhones from iPhone 8 through iPhone 15 Pro Max.

    • Lightweight and Compact: Weighing less than 1.78 pounds (808 grams), it is lightweight for traveling and offers almost neutral buoyancy in water, depending on which smartphone model is used.

    • Advanced Camera Controls: The free SportDiver app allows you to adjust zoom, exposure, focus, white balance, tint, lens selection, RAW+JPEG mode, and video stabilization (on available phone models).

    • Bluetooth Connectivity: The SportDiver Ultra housing automatically connects to your smartphone and the SportDiver app using Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE) 5 wireless technology.

    • Dual Leak Alarms: The SportDiver Ultra has “Dual Leak Alarms” which include an internal moisture alarm and a vacuum pressure alarm which alert the diver with on-screen warnings, audio and LED signal in the unlikely event the waterproof seal is compromised.

  • Who It's For: The SeaLife SportDiver Ultra is a great option for divers who want a reliable and easy-to-use housing that's compatible with a variety of smartphones. It's perfect for recreational divers and snorkelers who want to capture their underwater adventures without breaking the bank.

Divevolk SeaTouch 4 Max Plus: The Touchscreen Revolution

The Divevolk SeaTouch 4 Max Plus is a truly unique underwater housing that lets you use your smartphone's touchscreen underwater. That's right, full touchscreen access! This innovative design offers a level of control and freedom that's unlike any other housing on the market.

  • Key Features:

    • Full Touchscreen Access: The SeaTouch 4 Max Plus lets you use your smartphone underwater just like you do on land, giving you access to all your favorite apps and features.

    • Wide Compatibility: This housing is compatible with a wide range of smartphones, including the latest iPhones and most Android devices.

    • GPS and Emergency Calls: The SeaTouch 4 Max Plus even allows you to access GPS location at the surface and make emergency phone calls (if you're able to get a signal).

    • Accessory Compatibility: It works with various accessories like lenses and filters, so you can customize your underwater photography setup.

  • Who It's For: The Divevolk SeaTouch 4 Max Plus is perfect for tech-savvy divers who want the ultimate control and flexibility underwater. It's ideal for underwater photographers, videographers, and divers who want to use their smartphone for various dive-related tasks.

Choose Your Underwater Companion

Each of these underwater smartphone housings offers a unique blend of features and benefits. The Oceanic+ Dive Housing is a tech-lover's dream, the SeaLife SportDiver Ultra is a versatile and user-friendly option, and the Divevolk SeaTouch 4 Max Plus is a touchscreen revolution.

Consider your diving needs, your smartphone model, and your budget when making your decision. And remember, the right underwater housing can transform your phone into a powerful tool for capturing and enhancing your underwater experiences. Dive Right In Scuba is here to help you find the perfect underwater companion for your next dive!