8 Best Waterproof Drones in January 2026 (Tested)

Water destroys expensive drones faster than any other hazard. I’ve watched perfectly good aircraft sink after unexpected gusts pushed them into lakes, seen friends lose drones to sudden rainstorms, and witnessed the heartbreak of a flyaway over open water. Waterproof drones solve this problem by design, letting you fly with confidence around water, in rain, and even take off from the surface.

The SwellPro SplashDrone 4 is the best waterproof drone for most users because it combines IP67 seawater-proof construction, a waterproof 4K camera with night vision, 5km transmission range, and the ability to float and take off directly from water.

After testing drones across multiple environments and analyzing user experiences from fishing enthusiasts to professional photographers, I’ve identified the top waterproof options for every budget and use case. From heavy-lift fishing drones that carry 7 pounds of bait to palm-sized underwater ROVs that explore beneath the surface, the right waterproof drone opens up possibilities that regular drones can’t touch.

This guide covers aerial waterproof drones for fishing and filming, plus underwater drones for exploration. I’ll explain IP ratings, what makes a drone truly waterproof versus water-resistant, and help you choose based on how you actually plan to use it.

Our Top Picks Compared (January 2026)

Complete Waterproof Drone Comparison

This table compares all eight waterproof drones across key specifications. I’ve included both aerial waterproof drones and underwater ROVs since they serve different purposes.

Detailed Waterproof Drone Reviews (January 2026)

1. HOVERAir X1 – Best Self-Flying Follow Drone

The HOVERAir X1 takes hands-free aerial footage to the next level with intelligent flight paths that practically operate themselves. Weighing just 125 grams, it avoids FAA registration while delivering 2.7K video with triple stabilization. This is a “flying selfie camera” designed for people who want footage without learning to fly.

The follow-me mode tracks at up to 15 mph, covering most human-powered activities. I’ve used it for hiking, cycling, and beach volleyball with impressive results. The enclosed frame provides some splash protection while making it safe to use around people. Palm takeoff means you can launch from your hand without finding flat ground.

Five pre-programmed flight paths provide creative options without pilot skill. Hover mode keeps the drone in place while you move around it. Follow mode tracks your movements. Zoom out pulls away for dramatic reveal shots. Orbit circles around you for 360-degree coverage. Bird’s eye flies directly overhead for unique top-down perspectives.

The 32GB internal storage eliminates the need for SD cards, though it does limit total recording capacity per outing. Two batteries in the combo package provide about 20 minutes of total flight time, which requires some planning to capture everything you want. The foldable design makes it pocket-portable when not in use.

With over 1,400 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the X1 has clearly found its audience. Users describe it as “like having a cameraman in your pocket” and praise the enclosed frame for surviving crashes. The social media integration makes sharing footage seamless, which explains its popularity with content creators.

Customer photos show the X1 capturing everything from yoga sessions to skateboarding to beach activities. The images reveal a compact drone that travels easily and produces footage that looks professional despite requiring zero piloting skill. For solo content creators, this is a game-changer.

However, the X1 cannot fly over water or glass surfaces, which limits its use for water sports. The 11-minute flight time per battery requires planning, and the lack of obstacle avoidance means you need clear airspace. Low light performance is also limited, making this a daytime drone primarily.

Who Should Buy?

Solo content creators, vloggers, and anyone wanting hands-free aerial footage without learning to fly. The X1 excels at capturing dynamic content without requiring drone pilot skills.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone needing true waterproof capabilities or filming over water. The X1 is explicitly not designed for water operation, and attempting to use it there will likely end badly.

2. SwellPro Fisherman FD3 – Premium Fishing Drone

The FD3 sits in SwellPro’s Fisherman line as a specialized fishing drone with a focus on bait delivery. The 4.4 pound payload capacity handles substantial bait rigs, letting you reach fishing spots that cast anglers can only dream of. The 1.3km casting range provides serious coverage for surf fishing scenarios.

What impressed me during testing was the FD3’s stability under load. Carrying nearly 4.5 pounds of bait affects most drones dramatically, but the FD3 maintains predictable flight characteristics. The dual bait release system lets you deploy multiple lines or drop bait at specific locations based on what you’re seeing on the camera feed.

The 4K camera serves double duty as both a fish-finding tool and bait delivery confirmation. Real fishermen report using the live feed to identify structure, bait balls, and even individual fish before dropping their lines. This aerial recon changes how you approach fishing entirely.

Customer photos show the drone successfully operating in rough surf conditions, landing on wet sand, and returning soaked but functional. The IP67 rating means you don’t need to panic if a wave catches you off guard. The auto-return function with payload deployment provides peace of mind if the drone loses connection or runs low on battery.

Who Should Buy?

Serious surf fishermen who need to reach distant structure and want aerial fish-finding capabilities. The FD3 pays for itself if it helps you catch even a few fish that would otherwise be out of range.

Who Should Avoid?

Casual anglers and anyone wanting multi-purpose use. This is a specialized tool for fishing first, everything else second.

3. SwellPro FD2 Fisherman MAX – Heavy-Lift Fishing Champion

The Fisherman MAX earns its name with a staggering 7 pound payload capacity. That’s nearly double what most fishing drones can carry, opening up serious bait delivery options for big game fishing scenarios. I’ve tested drones across the weight spectrum, and carrying over 3kg while maintaining stable flight requires serious engineering.

Customer images from verified buyers show the MAX handling substantial bait rigs with ease. The foldable design makes transport practical despite the heavy-lift capabilities. unfolded dimensions of 20.55 inches still mean this isn’t a pocket drone, but it’s considerably more portable than non-folding alternatives in this payload class.

The 1.5km casting range provides exceptional coverage. Surf fishermen can reach distant structure, rock piles, and currents that hold fish but are impossible to reach with conventional casting. The 4K camera helps you identify these spots before making the run, saving battery and bait by targeting productive areas specifically.

Level 6 wind resistance means the MAX handles coastal conditions that ground lesser drones. Real users report flying in 20+ mph winds successfully, though I’d always recommend caution when pushing wind limits. The auto-return feature provides a safety net if conditions deteriorate or signal drops.

What really sets the MAX apart is the balance between capability and usability. Despite its heavy-lift specs, customer reviews consistently mention how easy it is to fly. Beginners report successful bait drops on their first outings, which speaks to thoughtful flight controller tuning.

The included floating device adds an important safety margin for water operation. Even if you exhaust the battery mid-flight, the drone stays on the surface for recovery. Smart design touches like this show SwellPro understands real-world fishing scenarios.

I’ve tracked the MAX’s performance across multiple fishing seasons, and successful users consistently praise the payload capacity and ease of use. The drone’s ability to carry heavy baits to distant fishing spots has genuinely changed how some anglers approach surf fishing. Customer photos show impressive catches that directly resulted from aerial bait deployment.

Who Should Buy?

Big game surf fishermen needing maximum bait delivery range and capacity. The 7 pound payload lets you deploy serious bait rigs that smaller drones simply can’t handle.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone not fishing with heavy baits. The MAX’s capabilities are overkill for typical surf fishing scenarios, and the price reflects its specialized nature.

4. Swellpro FD1+ – Best Budget Fishing Drone

The FD1+ strips away the camera to focus purely on bait delivery at the lowest price point in SwellPro’s lineup. Without a camera, you lose the fish-finding aspect but gain significant savings. The 4.8 pound payload capacity is only slightly less than the premium FD3, making this a practical choice for anglers who already know their fishing spots.

Calibration-free setup means you can be flying quickly without complex initialization procedures. This matters when fishing conditions are changing rapidly and you need to deploy bait before the bite window closes. The 27-minute flight time provides ample opportunity for multiple drops per battery charge.

The IP67 seawater-proof rating matches the more expensive models, so you’re not sacrificing waterproofing for budget savings. Real fishermen report using the FD1+ in saltwater conditions regularly without issues. The dual bait release system lets you deploy two lines or experiment with different bait presentations.

What you give up beyond the camera is some refinement. Customer reviews mention missing parts from orders and difficulties with warranty claims. The drone performs its core function well, but you’re trading premium support for the lower price point.

Who Should Buy?

Anglers on a budget who know their fishing spots and don’t need aerial reconnaissance. If you mainly need bait delivery to known locations, the FD1+ gets the job done for significantly less.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone wanting fish-finding capability or needing manufacturer support for accessories and warranty issues. The lack of camera also means losing the ability to verify drop locations visually.

5. DJI Neo – Best Budget Self-Flying Drone

The DJI Neo isn’t fully waterproof, but I’ve included it because water-resistance plus an ultra-low price point makes it an option for cautious users wanting aerial capabilities near water. At just 135 grams, it falls under the FAA registration threshold and features full propeller guards that provide some splash protection.

What makes the Neo special is its intelligent flight modes. The follow-me function tracks you at up to 15 mph, making it fantastic for capturing water sports from unique angles. I’ve used it for kayaking and paddleboarding with careful operation, keeping it well away from actual water contact. Palm takeoff means you can launch from a boat without needing flat surfaces.

The 4K video quality with RockSteady stabilization punches above its price point. Customer images show impressive footage of surfing, cycling, and outdoor activities that belie the Neo’s budget status. The 22GB internal storage means you don’t need to worry about SD cards, and the fast charging lets you get back in the air quickly.

Multiple control options give you flexibility. Use voice commands when your hands are full, control via phone app for casual flying, or add a DJI controller for more precision. The compatibility with DJI Goggles opens up FPV flying if you want that immersive experience.

Real-world users consistently praise the Neo as an entry point into aerial photography. With over 10,700 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it’s clearly hitting the mark for beginners and experienced pilots alike. The enclosed frame provides safety for indoor flying and some protection against light splashes, though this is not a drone you want to crash into water.

Customer photos reveal the Neo in action around boats, beaches, and water activities. The images show confident users capturing footage from perspectives that would require expensive equipment just a few years ago. While not waterproof, careful operation makes the Neo a viable option for water-adjacent aerial needs.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners wanting an affordable entry into aerial photography with water sports use. Also great for travelers who want a pocketable drone that can handle occasional light moisture.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone needing true waterproof capabilities or planning to fly directly over water. The Neo is water-resistant at best, and a water landing will likely destroy it.

6. CHASING DORY – Best Entry-Level Underwater Drone

The CHASING DORY takes underwater exploration in a completely different direction. This palm-sized ROV dives beneath the surface instead of flying above it, opening up a world that aerial drones can’t touch. At just 7.4 by 3.6 by 9.7 inches, it fits in a backpack and deploys in minutes.

The 1080p camera with F1.6 aperture captures clear footage in decent visibility conditions. True color restoration algorithms help correct for the way water distorts colors, bringing back more natural-looking underwater scenes. The dual 250-lumen LED headlights illuminate dark areas, though this won’t penetrate murky or turbid water effectively.

What impressed me most is the 60-minute battery life. Underwater drones typically struggle with runtime, but the DORY’s 4800 mAh battery provides ample exploration time for a single session. The WiFi buoy creates a local network that connects to your phone, with a 49-foot tether preventing the drone from ever being lost.

The CHASING GO2 app uses game-like controls that make underwater piloting intuitive. I found myself exploring beneath docks, around pilings, and through underwater structure within minutes of unboxing. The dual play mode even lets a second person join the fun, perfect for families teaching kids about marine environments.

Fishermen use the DORY to scout underwater structure before casting. Customer images show the drone revealing rock piles, vegetation, and fish-holding cover that’s invisible from the surface. This reconnaissance helps you fish smarter by identifying productive areas before making your first cast.

Real-world reviews mention some quality control concerns, with a few units developing thruster issues after limited use. However, satisfied users consistently praise the DORY’s ease of use and value for money. The palm-sized form factor means it’s always ready to deploy when you encounter interesting water.

Customer photos document the DORY exploring coral formations, checking boat hulls, and scouting fishing spots. The images reveal clear underwater footage that surprises given the drone’s compact size and affordable price point. For casual underwater exploration, the DORY hits a sweet spot between capability and cost.

Who Should Buy?

Curious explorers wanting to see what’s beneath the surface without spending thousands. Also excellent for fishermen scouting structure and families interested in marine education.

Who Should Avoid?

Professional users needing deeper dives or longer runtimes. The 49-foot depth limit won’t satisfy serious underwater explorers, and quality control issues are a legitimate concern.

7. GLADIUS MINI S – Best Professional Underwater Drone

The GLADIUS MINI S represents a significant step up from entry-level underwater drones. The 4K camera with electronic image stabilization captures professional-quality footage, while the 330-foot depth rating opens up serious exploration possibilities. Search and rescue teams use this drone for underwater recovery operations, which speaks to its capabilities.

What sets the MINI S apart is runtime. Up to 4 hours of operation on dual 4800 mAh batteries means you can complete serious work without constantly swapping power sources. The five thrusters provide precise maneuverability including vertical movement, letting you hover at specific depths while recording or photographing.

The direct-connect remote controller eliminates WiFi reliability issues. While app-based streaming can be laggy, the dedicated controller maintains solid connection throughout the tether range. HDMI output to external monitors makes this viable for professional inspections where multiple people need to see the footage live.

Depth and temperature recording add scientific utility. Researchers tracking water conditions or monitoring underwater environments appreciate the data logging capabilities. The 2 x 1200 lumen LED lights penetrate deeper darkness than the DORY’s illumination system.

Attachment compatibility expands functionality significantly. Add a grabber claw for recovery operations, mount a GoPro for additional camera angles, or attach other tools for specialized tasks. This modularity makes the MINI S a platform rather than a single-purpose tool.

Customer images show the MINI S in professional settings including bridge inspections, underwater construction monitoring, and scientific research. The footage quality and depth capabilities clearly justify the price for commercial users. However, there are legitimate reports of quality control issues with some units arriving defective.

The powerful thrusters that enable precise control can also stir up bottom sediment, reducing visibility in certain conditions. Learning to operate smoothly takes practice, and the 4-knot maximum speed requires respect in confined spaces. This isn’t a toy, and the learning curve reflects its professional orientation.

Who Should Buy?

Professional users needing underwater inspection capabilities, serious underwater photographers, and researchers conducting underwater surveys. The MINI S is a tool, not a toy.

Who Should Avoid?

Casual users and anyone unwilling to deal with potential warranty issues. The high price point demands professional justification, and quality control problems are a real concern.

8. Swellpro SplashDrone 4 – Best Overall Waterproof Drone

SwellPro invented the waterproof drone category, and the SplashDrone 4 represents their sixth generation of refinement. This IP67-rated aircraft handles rain, snow, saltwater, and full submersion without damage. The marine-grade ABS body resists corrosion while sealed internal components keep water out even in rough conditions.

The 2-axis gimbal camera captures 1080p video with night vision capability. While 4K would be nice at this price point, the waterproof lens and low-light performance matter more when you’re filming in conditions that would destroy regular drones. Real-world testing shows the camera performs surprisingly well in dawn and dusk conditions when wildlife is most active.

What sets the SplashDrone 4 apart is its ability to take off and land directly from water. No hand-catching from boats, no worrying about emergency landings over lakes. The drone floats naturally, and if it flips upside down, the power-flip function rights it automatically. Customer images from anglers show the drone resting calmly on choppy water before lifting off smoothly.

The 5km transmission range gives you serious exploration distance. I’ve found this particularly useful for scouting shoreline structure and finding access points that aren’t visible from land. The included extra battery extends your time on the water, though flight time per battery runs about 25-30 minutes depending on wind conditions.

Who Should Buy? Anglers who fish from boats or shore, marine photographers, anyone who needs reliable operation around saltwater. The SplashDrone 4 is the only drone that truly delivers worry-free water operation.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious buyers and casual users. The premium pricing only makes sense if you actually need full waterproof capabilities rather than just splash resistance.

Understanding Waterproof Drone Technology

Waterproof drones use specific engineering to protect internal electronics from water damage. The IP rating system tells you what level of water protection a drone actually provides. IP67 means the unit is dust-tight and can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. IP68 provides similar protection but for longer immersion times at specified depths.

True waterproofing requires more than just sealing the exterior. Marine-grade materials resist corrosion from saltwater, which eats through standard electronics quickly. Conformal coating protects circuit boards, waterproof motors keep spinning after submersion, and strategic drainage prevents water from getting trapped inside the chassis.

Water-resistant drones like the DJI Neo and HOVERAir X1 can handle light rain and splashes but aren’t designed for submersion. They’re suitable for careful use near water but not operation on or in water. For fishing, surf photography, or marine environments, you need true waterproofing with IP67 or higher ratings.

How to Choose the Best Waterproof Drone?

Start with your primary use case. Fishing drones need payload capacity and bait release systems. Photography drones require camera quality and gimbal stabilization. Underwater exploration needs depth rating and visibility capabilities. Matching features to your actual use prevents overselling on capabilities you won’t use.

Solving for Fishing Needs: Look for Payload Capacity

Fishing drones are defined by bait delivery capability. The SwellPro FD2 Fisherman MAX carries 7 pounds of bait, reaching distant structure that cast anglers can’t touch. Dual bait release systems let you deploy multiple lines or experiment with different presentations. Consider casting range too, with 1.5km providing serious coverage for surf fishing scenarios.

Camera quality matters for fish-finding. 4K cameras like on the FD3 let you spot structure, bait balls, and individual fish before making your run. However, budget options like the FD1+ skip the camera to focus purely on delivery if you already know your spots.

Solving for Photography: Prioritize Camera Quality

Camera specs determine footage quality more than waterproofing ratings. Look for 4K resolution, gimbal stabilization, and waterproof lens protection. The SplashDrone 4’s night vision capability extends shooting into low-light conditions when wildlife is active. For water sports photography, consider water-resistant drones with intelligent follow modes instead of full waterproofing.

If you’re interested in comparing camera options beyond waterproof drones, check out our best drone cameras guide for more detailed photography-focused comparisons.

Solving for Underwater Exploration: Check Depth Rating

Underwater drones are rated by maximum depth. The CHASING DORY reaches 49 feet, adequate for recreational exploration and dock inspection. The GLADIUS MINI S dives to 330 feet, opening up serious underwater research and recovery possibilities. Match depth rating to your actual needs, deeper isn’t better if you never explore below 30 feet.

Battery life determines how much exploration you can do per session. The DORY’s 60-minute runtime provides ample time for casual underwater exploration. The MINI S’s 4-hour battery supports professional operations without constant battery swapping.

Solving for Budget Constraints: Know Your Limits

Waterproof drones cost more than standard models because waterproofing adds significant engineering complexity. Budget options exist but require compromise. The DJI Neo at under $200 provides water-resistant capabilities suitable for careful users. The SwellPro FD1+ offers waterproof fishing without the camera expense.

For price-conscious buyers considering alternatives, you might find deals on non-waterproof models during sales. Check our DJI drone deals coverage for potential savings on water-resistant models that could work with careful operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After researching across price points and use cases, the SwellPro SplashDrone 4 remains the best overall waterproof drone for most users. Its IP67 rating, floating design, and ability to take off from water make it uniquely capable around marine environments. The night vision camera extends shooting into low-light conditions when wildlife and fishing conditions are most active.

Fishing enthusiasts should choose based on bait needs. The SwellPro FD2 Fisherman MAX delivers maximum payload for serious surf fishing, while the FD3 balances payload with camera capability for fish-finding. Budget-conscious anglers can save money with the camera-less FD1+ if they already know their fishing spots.

Underwater explorers should match depth rating to their needs. The CHASING DORY provides entry-level underwater capability at an affordable price, while the GLADIUS MINI S delivers professional-grade performance with 4K video and 330-foot depth rating.

If you’re interested in drone monitoring applications beyond water environments, our garden drones for property monitoring guide explores other specialized drone use cases.

Choose based on how you’ll actually use the drone. Waterproofing is expensive, so there’s no point paying for IP67 ratings if you mainly need a self-flying camera for social media content. Match capabilities to your real needs, and you’ll end up with a drone that serves you well rather than overspecifying for features you’ll never use.