If you’re like me, you invested in a great action camera like a Go Pro to capture all of life’s adventures, including those involving water. The thought of missing out on stunning underwater shots or worrying about splashing near the camera was a constant concern. That fear of water ingress, potentially ruining an expensive piece of equipment, definitely pushed me to look for a reliable waterproof solution beyond the camera’s native water resistance. Without proper protection, a single underwater excursion could turn into a costly mistake, losing not just footage but the camera itself.
- 【Special Design】Go Pro Hero 13 Black / Hero 12 Black / Hero 11 Black / Hero 10 Black / Hero 9 Black.
- 【3 Pack Dive Filters】 The including 3 pack filters can be easily snap on and off by Fitstill waterproof housing case for Go Pro Hero 13/12/11/10/10/9 Black.LIGHT RED filter for snorkel depth water...
- 【Excellent PMMA material】 Waterproof up to 60M/196FT, ideal for diving, surfing, snorkeling and other water sports activities.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Waterproof Housing
Action cameras are built tough, but their inherent water resistance often has limits – typically shallow depths suitable for splashing or light rain. For anything more serious, like snorkeling, surfing, or especially scuba diving, a dedicated waterproof housing is essential. The ideal customer for such a product is someone who plans to use their GoPro camera extensively in or around water, particularly at depths exceeding the camera’s built-in rating. If you only need basic splash protection or will only be using your Go Pro out of the water, a full dive case might be overkill, and perhaps a simple frame mount or silicone case would suffice.
Before buying a waterproof housing, several factors are paramount. Firstly, check the depth rating; ensure it meets your intended use (snorkeling vs. deep diving). Secondly, verify compatibility with your specific Go Pro model – housings are often designed for particular generations. Material quality is crucial; it needs to be durable enough to withstand water pressure and potential bumps. Ease of use, including how easily the camera can be inserted and removed and how the latch operates, is also important, though sometimes convenience is traded for security. Finally, consider whether accessories like anti-fog inserts and colour correction filters are included or easily attachable, as these are vital for clear underwater footage.
- Dual-layer waterproof seal and leak alarm: This Seafrog waterproof camera housing provides dual waterproof protection for your Olympus TG-7 camera, equipped with dual-layer waterproof seals and leak...
- 1. Optical performance: optical glass ports (not acrylic) + customized parts that position the domes and ports optimally. 2. Universal compatibility for multiple cameras and lenses, and adjustable...
- GOOD PERFORMANCE: The 304 stainless steel bow lock has the characteristics of resistance, clear thread, tight connection, strong and
Presenting the FitStill 196FT/60M Underwater Waterproof Housing
The FitStill 196FT/60M Underwater Waterproof Housing is designed to take your Go Pro Hero 13, Hero 12, Hero 11, Hero 10, or Hero 9 Black camera far beyond its built-in waterproof capabilities. It promises robust protection down to an impressive 60 meters (196 feet), opening up serious underwater adventures. When you purchase the standard package, you receive the durable plastic dive case itself, along with a set of three colour correction filters (Light Red, Red, and Magenta) specifically designed to snap onto the housing, and a generous pack of 12 anti-fog inserts to help keep your lens clear.
Compared to the official Go Pro branded housings, this FitStill housing typically offers a more budget-friendly option while still providing a significant depth rating. It’s clearly aimed at Go Pro users who want to explore deeper underwater without the higher cost of the official accessories. This specific product is primarily for those who own one of the listed recent Go Pro models and plan activities like scuba diving, deeper snorkeling, or even just want maximum peace of mind for water sports where impacts might be a risk. It’s not for users with older Go Pro models not listed as compatible, or those who need integration with specific, potentially bulkier aftermarket filter systems that might not fit.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons I’ve encountered or gathered feedback on:
Pros:
* Offers a substantial waterproof depth rating of 60M/196FT.
* Includes three essential dive filters for different water types and depths.
* Comes with a good supply of anti-fog inserts.
* Compatible with multiple recent Go Pro models (Hero 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Black).
* Generally provides excellent protection against water and pressure for many users.
Cons:
* Some users have reported durability concerns with the latch mechanism over time.
* A few reports of leakage or cracking at depths shallower than the advertised 60M limit.
* The metal screws can be prone to rust if not properly rinsed and dried after saltwater use.
* Not compatible with all aftermarket filter systems, including some popular brands.
* Some users find the plastic quality feels less premium compared to official options.
Exploring the Features & Their Benefits
Diving deeper into the specifics of the FitStill Waterproof Housing reveals the features that make it a compelling option for water enthusiasts.
Impressive Depth Rating (60M/196FT)
This is arguably the headline feature of the FitStill housing. While newer Go Pro models have improved their native water resistance, they are generally only rated for relatively shallow depths (often around 10 meters). A rating of 60 meters or 196 feet is a game-changer. It means you can comfortably take your camera scuba diving, exploring shipwrecks, coral reefs, or marine life at significant depths without fearing a breach. This opens up a whole new world of photographic and videographic possibilities that simply aren’t accessible with the camera alone. The benefit here is unlocking advanced underwater filming scenarios, allowing you to capture truly unique perspectives. However, it’s important to note the feedback from some users who experienced issues at shallower depths. While many have successfully used the protective dive case well within its limits, these reports highlight the critical importance of always testing *any* waterproof housing thoroughly before trusting it with your valuable camera at significant depth, perhaps starting shallow and gradually increasing depth.
Robust PMMA Material Construction
The housing is constructed from what FitStill describes as “Excellent PMMA material.” PMMA, also known as acrylic, is a type of clear plastic known for its transparency, rigidity, and impact resistance. In a waterproof case, the quality of the material is paramount. It needs to withstand the immense pressure exerted by water at depth while remaining optically clear to ensure your footage isn’t distorted or dulled. The benefit of using a good quality plastic like PMMA is that it provides this necessary structural integrity and clarity without adding excessive weight or bulk, keeping the housing relatively lightweight (stated as 0.1 kg). While some user reviews have described the plastic quality as feeling “cheap” or “just so so,” others have found it to be “thick” and “very durable,” suggesting there might be some variation in perception or perhaps manufacturing batches. From my perspective, the material feels sturdy enough for its intended purpose, offering reliable protection against water and pressure when properly sealed.
Three Pack Dive Filters Included
Capturing vibrant colours underwater is a major challenge because water absorbs light, especially red light, as you go deeper. This results in footage that appears increasingly blue or green. Colour correction filters are essential accessories to counteract this. The inclusion of a three-pack of filters with this FitStill housing is a significant benefit, saving you the hassle and expense of buying them separately.
* Light Red Filter: Ideal for shallower depths (2-15 feet) in blue water or clear freshwater, helping to restore some warmth to colours.
* RED FILTER: Designed for deeper blue or tropical seawater (15-85 feet), this is the most common filter for scuba diving, bringing reds and oranges back to life.
* MAGENTA FILTER: Used in freshwater environments that appear green, typically at depths of 7-70 feet.
The filters easily snap on and off the front of the housing, making it convenient to switch based on your diving conditions. The benefit is dramatically improved underwater colour accuracy, resulting in more natural and visually appealing photos and videos without needing extensive post-production colour correction. However, one user review specifically mentioned that popular aftermarket filters (like PolarPro) do *not* fit this housing and can pop off easily, which is a drawback if you prefer using filters from other brands.
Twelve Pack Anti-fog Inserts
Another common issue with underwater housings is fogging or condensation forming inside the case, especially in humid or cold water environments. This happens due to temperature differences between the camera/air inside and the surrounding water. These anti-fog inserts are small absorbent strips that you place inside the housing to soak up moisture and prevent condensation from obscuring your lens. Receiving a pack of 12 inserts provides a good supply for multiple dives or uses. The benefit is ensuring a clear view through the housing’s lens port, guaranteeing your footage isn’t ruined by blurry patches of fog. While they significantly reduce the likelihood of fogging, it’s worth noting, as one user review pointed out, that environmental factors like water temperature and humidity can still play a role, and fogging isn’t *always* entirely eliminated, though the inserts are generally very effective.
Secure Latch and Fit
The mechanism for opening and closing the housing and ensuring a watertight seal is critical. The FitStill case uses a secure latch system. The camera fits snugly inside, held in place to align the camera’s buttons with the external controls on the housing. A snug fit is beneficial as it prevents the camera from shifting around inside. The latch needs to be firm to create the necessary seal. The benefit is confidence that your camera is secure and the housing is properly sealed against water ingress, assuming it’s closed correctly. However, user feedback indicates that while the fit is often snug and protective, the latch mechanism itself has been a point of failure for some, with reports of it breaking after limited use. This suggests that while the initial protection is good, the long-term durability of the latch might be a weakness for some units.
Compatibility Across Models
One of the great aspects of this particular waterproof housing is its compatibility with a range of recent Go Pro models: the Hero 9 Black, Hero 10 Black, Hero 11 Black, Hero 12 Black, and even the very latest Hero 13 Black. This multi-generational compatibility is a significant benefit for users who might upgrade their camera but want to keep their accessories, or for families who own different recent models. It ensures a broad range of users can utilize this single housing for their underwater needs.
In summary, the FitStill 196FT/60M Underwater Waterproof Housing packs in essential features like a high depth rating, included colour filters, and anti-fog protection, making it a solid option for expanding your Go Pro’s capabilities in aquatic environments. While there are some noted concerns regarding latch durability and filter compatibility with other brands, for many users, it provides reliable protection and enhances underwater footage significantly, representing good value.
Glimpses from Other Users
Looking around online, I’ve found feedback from other users which largely echoes my own experiences and observations, both positive and negative. Many people were pleased with how effectively the housing kept their camera dry and protected during holidays involving water, noting a snug fit and no negative impact on picture quality. The waterproof performance was often highlighted as reliable for general use. However, some shared frustrations, including reports of the latch breaking after only a handful of uses, raising questions about long-term mechanical durability. There were also a few concerning mentions of units failing or cracking under pressure at depths significantly shallower than the advertised 60 meters, although others successfully dived deeper without issue. The perception of plastic quality was mixed, with some finding it robust while others felt it was less premium. Issues with screws rusting and the inability to fit popular third-party dive filters were also mentioned as drawbacks. Overall, the sentiment seems to be that the waterproof housing offers great core functionality for its price point, but potential quality inconsistencies exist, particularly with long-term durability and depth rating reliability for all units.
Wrapping Things Up
Protecting your expensive action camera from water damage is absolutely crucial if you plan to use it in aquatic environments. The potential complications of water ingress – from blurry footage to complete camera failure – make a reliable waterproof housing a necessary investment for water sports enthusiasts and divers. The FitStill 196FT/60M Underwater Waterproof Housing presents itself as a great fit to solve this problem for users of the Go Pro Hero 9 through Hero 13 Black. Its impressive 60-meter depth rating expands your filming possibilities dramatically, and the inclusion of essential accessories like dive filters and anti-fog inserts adds significant value straight out of the box. While some users have noted potential issues with latch durability or achieving the full advertised depth rating, for many, it provides robust protection and enhanced underwater colour capture. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to take your recent Go Pro deep, this dive case is certainly worth considering. Click here to check it out and see if it’s the right fit for your next aquatic adventure.
Last update on 2025-07-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API