The DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max: Best Smartphone Underwater Housing
Never thought Id see the day I took my smart phone underwater instead of my camera...
Honestly, as an underwater photographer and videographer, I never imagined the day would come when I’d rely more on my smartphone than my camera for capturing stunning underwater moments. However, the DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max has completely changed the game, making it easier than ever to take breathtaking underwater photos and videos. It was about 18 months ago when we first discovered this groundbreaking smartphone underwater housing.
At the time, I had just gotten my Samsung S23 Ultra and was eager to see how it could perform for scuba diving. The phone’s impressive camera and video capabilities convinced me I needed a solution that would allow me to use it underwater safely while keeping it dry.
I had experimented with other smartphone housings for an iPhone years earlier, but I wasn’t impressed. The processing in the apps left much to be desired, and iPhones lagged behind Androids in waterproofing—a gap that I’m still not entirely confident has closed.
That said, taking a $1,000+ phone 20 to 30 meters underwater is nerve-wracking. DiveVolk, however, promises protection down to an impressive 60 meters while maintaining full touchscreen functionality. For underwater photography enthusiasts and professionals, this innovation is truly redefining what’s possible.
Why DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 is a popular choice for Smartphone Underwater Housings
The DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max sets itself apart from competitors in the world of underwater housings for smartphones. Unlike traditional housings that rely on buttons or third-party apps, DiveVolk’s innovative design gives you full control of your smartphone’s native touchscreen, making it incredibly user-friendly. Priced at just $199 (approximately ื77000), this smartphone waterproof housing offers unmatched value.
- Allows Full Phone and Camera Use
- No 3rd part apps required
- $199 Price tag
DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max delivers unparalleled functionality among smartphone underwater housings:
Exclusive Gel-Filled Membrane: This innovative feature compresses underwater to maintain full touchscreen capabilities, letting you use your phone as if on land.
Emergency Communication: Unlike most housings, the DiveVolk SeaTouch allows you to send and receive calls or messages at the surface. It also doesn’t block Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mobile signals.
Simple Native Camera App Use: Effortlessly switch between photo and video modes or use advanced camera features without relying on third-party apps which often use their own compression and do not utilise the camera’s full abilities.
Underwater Note-Taking: Typing in the Notes app helps you communicate better with dive buddies when hand signals aren’t enough.
Universal Smartphone Adaptors: In our case, the Samsung S23 Ultra paired seamlessly with the DiveVolk SeaTouch 4, offering a 200MP wide camera for stunning high-resolution shots and multiple zoom options, including up to 100x for capturing distant marine life. Its RAW format support ensures professional-grade post-processing, while the 6.8-inch AMOLED display provides exceptional clarity for framing shots in any lighting condition.
Fine Tuned Accessories: Enhance your underwater photography further with DiveVolk accessories like the lens and filter adapters, compatible with red and magenta filters to restore natural colours lost at depth, and a wide-angle lens for capturing breathtaking marine landscapes.
DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Specs:
- Waterproof Depth: Up to 60 meters
- Touchscreen Access: Full smartphone app functionality
- Weight: 0.5 kg
- Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 4 cm
- Compatibility: Works with most smartphones; custom trays available for unique models
- Uses: Ideal for diving, snorkeling, poolside activities, and events like water festivals
Preparing DiveVolk - THe Set Up
Setting up your DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:
Remove the Screen Protector: Eliminate screen protectors to ensure optimal touchscreen performance.
Adjust Touch Sensitivity:
Android Users: Enable “Touch Sensitivity” for improved responsiveness.
iPhone Users: Activate “AssistiveTouch” for smoother operation.
Clean Your Camera Lens: This ensures crystal-clear photos and videos.
Attach the Adapter Tray: Secure your smartphone in the customized tray.
Insert the Adapter Tray and Phone into the Housing: Carefully place them into the SeaTouch housing.
Seal the Housing: Tighten the screws to create an airtight seal.
Fun Fact: Under usual conditions, Id always say always prepare the housing before leaving a tropical boat dive to minimize fogging. However, since I dive my main phone I never once have done this in 50+ dives opting to simply slip it on before the dive! Is this bad advice? maybe, but I can only tell you what I’ve experienced and that is zero fogging issues across any dive – I’ve used this housing in a variety of humidities too, from places like Thailand in the south-east to Asia to Malta in the Mediterranean and even the UK
ADVERTISMENT
Our DiveVolk Review: What We Tested and Results
What We Tested
We evaluated the DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max paired Red filter and wide angle lens with a Samsung S23 Ultra during multiple dives in Thailand. The primary aspects we focused on were:
- Touchscreen usability underwater.
- Camera performance with and without additional accessories.
- Suitability for long dives and surface intervals.
- Ease of setup and handling during dives.
What We Liked
- Universal Phone Trays: Compatible with nearly all smartphones.
- Simple Operation: Use your phone’s touchscreen as you would on land.
- Large Rear Screen: Provides excellent visibility for framing shots.
- Touchscreen Focus Controls: Includes pinch zoom and full camera setting access.
- Reasonable Price: Affordable compared to other options.
What We Didn’t Like
- Lens/Filter Combo Air Layer: Introducing an air layer between the phone lens and filters was tricky. Flooding the layer worked, but unscrewing lenses underwater felt risky.
- Phone White Balance Limitations: The Samsung S23 Ultra lacks a full manual white balance setting for natural light underwater photography. While post-production and RAW format shooting mitigate this issue, it’s a slight limitation for professional use.
- Lens/Filter Holder Size: Not all phone cameras align perfectly with DiveVolk’s lens holder, causing lens rims to appear in some shots. Adjustments are needed for flawless results. EDIT: Later after further testing we realised that coverage can be achieved if the len clamp is installed upside down – for use using an exist arm, we installed the clamp is a way that suited the tray, however, due to the wide angle lens coverage issue we opted to modify the tray set and reverse the lens clamp.
Our findings
The DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max exceeded our expectations in terms of usability and performance. It has quickly earned a spot in our lineup, especially for videography. With the ability to shoot in 4K at 60FPS and 120FPS in 1080p, smartphones paired with this housing outperform many traditional cameras in videography. While traditional cameras still excel in photography, the DiveVolk housing offers decent photo capabilities combined with excellent battery life, making it a versatile choice for divers.
- Unmatched Touchscreen Experience: Enjoy full control over camera settings, zoom, and modes underwater.
- Flawless Display Quality: The large, vivid phone screen enhances your underwater experience.
- Streamlined Workflow: Capture, review, and edit content directly from your phone using apps like Adobe Lightroom.
The DiveVolk SeaTouch 4 Max is a game-changer for underwater housings for smartphones, combining affordability, ease of use, and professional-grade functionality. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast or a seasoned diver, this smartphone underwater housing ensures you never miss a moment beneath the waves.
Transform your smartphone into an underwater powerhouse today and explore the depths like never before!
FAQs about DiveVolk HousingS
Q: Does the DiveVolk SeaTouch Overheat or Fog?
A: No, the airtight housing prevents fogging and overheating, even during 60-minute dives. To avoid fogging, keep the housing out of direct sunlight during intervals.
Q: Is the DiveVolk SeaTouch Heavy?
A: Weighing only 500g, it’s compact and travel-friendly. Note: The case isn’t buoyant—always secure it with the wrist strap to prevent loss underwater.
Q: Does the Dive Volk Fit All Smartphones?
A: Yes! DiveVolk offers custom trays for most models, including iPhone and Android devices. If your phone isn’t listed, they can 3D-print an adapter tray for a perfect fit.
Q: Can I Use the DiveVolk SeaTouch for Both Snorkeling and Diving?
A: Absolutely! It’s lightweight for snorkeling and robust enough for scuba diving. Use it for various activities like kayaking, freediving, or water festivals.
Purchase Underwater videography at Pond5
