In 2025, a variety of reasonably priced underwater drones have joined the market, making it easier than ever to explore the undersea world. Hobbyists, photographers, and marine enthusiasts can explore underwater environments without going over budget thanks to these small but mighty gadgets.
What Are Underwater Drones?
Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), another name as underwater drones, are unmanned submersible machines that let people explore underwater settings that may be difficult, hazardous, or inaccessible to humans.
These drones are specifically made to function underwater, unlike their aerial counterparts. They are outfitted with cameras, lights, and propulsion systems that allow users to explore and record footage below the surface.
The market for underwater drones has grown significantly and is predicted to reach $5.36 billion by 2025, or an annual growth rate of 10.3%. Recreational usage, environmental monitoring, and growing interest in ocean exploration are the main drivers of this rise.
Best Underwater Drones Under $500 in 2025
1. Chasing Dory
Offering a remarkable feature balance at a reasonable cost, the Chasing Dory is routinely rated as the best low-cost underwater drone in 2025.
Key Specifications:
- Price: Under $500.
- Camera: 1080p HD.
- Depth Rating: 49 feet (15 meters).
- Battery Life: Approximately 1 hour.
- Tether Length: 49 feet.
- Weight: Palm-sized, highly portable.
- Propulsion: 5-thruster system.
- Speed: Up to 3 knots.
The Chasing Dory earns its reputation as the best budget underwater drone due to its impressive features, despite the lower price point. It offers excellent underwater photography capabilities, portability, and intuitive controls that make it accessible to beginners and hobbyists alike.
What makes the Dory stand out is its five-thruster system, which provides excellent maneuverability and stability underwater. The drone can be controlled via a smartphone app, and its dual-play mode allows for shared exploration experiences.
2. ThorRobotics Mariana
For those seeking an even more budget-friendly option, the ThorRobotics Mariana offers basic functionality at an attractive price point.
Key Specifications:
- Price: Under $400.
- Camera: HD camera.
- Depth Rating: Up to 100 feet.
- Design: Mini ROV for recreational use.
- Portability: Compact and lightweight.
The ThorRobotics Mariana is designed specifically for casual exploration and underwater videography. While it doesn’t offer all the advanced features of higher-end models, it provides a solid entry point for those new to underwater drones.
3. PowerVision PowerRay Explorer
While pushing the upper limits of our $500 budget, the PowerVision PowerRay Explorer offers superior camera quality compared to other budget options.
Key Specifications:
- Price: Around $500 (base model).
- Camera: 4K, 12-megapixel.
- Depth Rating: Up to 98 feet (30 meters).
- Video Transmission: Real-time transmission.
- Features: Dual headlights for improved visibility.
The PowerRay Explorer is ideal for those who prioritize image quality in their underwater explorations. Its 4K camera captures stunning footage even in lower light conditions.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Budget Underwater Drone
Camera Quality
Even at the sub-$500 price point, camera quality varies significantly between models:
| Model | Camera Resolution | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Chasing Dory | 1080p HD | Good low-light performance |
| ThorRobotics Mariana | HD | Basic functionality |
| PowerVision PowerRay Explorer | 4K, 12MP | Superior image quality |
For most casual users, 1080p resolution (like that offered by the Chasing Dory) provides sufficient detail for recreational use and social media sharing. However, if you’re serious about underwater photography, the 4K capability of the PowerRay might be worth the additional investment.
Depth Rating
Budget underwater drones typically have more limited depth capabilities compared to their expensive counterparts:
- Entry-level models (under $300): Usually limited to 30-50 feet.
- Mid-range budget models ($300-500): Can reach 50-100 feet.
The Chasing Dory’s 49-foot depth rating is sufficient for pool use, shallow diving, and exploring coastal waters, while the ThorRobotics Mariana and PowerRay offer slightly deeper capabilities.
Battery Life and Operation Time
Battery life is a critical consideration for underwater drones, as it directly impacts how long you can explore:
- Most budget models: 1-2 hours of operation.
- Premium models: 2-4+ hours.
The Chasing Dory offers approximately one hour of operation time, which is standard for its price range. For longer expeditions, you might want to consider bringing spare batteries or choosing a model with longer battery life.
Tether vs. Wireless
Unlike aerial drones, most underwater drones use a physical tether (cable) to communicate with the controller:
- Tethered drones: More reliable connection, no signal loss underwater.
- Wireless capabilities: Limited range underwater due to the water’s effect on radio waves.
All the budget models we’ve featured use tethers of varying lengths. The Chasing Dory comes with a 49-foot tether, which is adequate for casual exploration but more limiting than higher-end models.
Maneuverability and Control
The number and arrangement of thrusters affect how well an underwater drone can navigate:
- 3 thrusters: Basic movement, suitable for calm waters.
- 5+ thrusters: Better stability and control in currents.
The Chasing Dory’s five-thruster system provides excellent maneuverability for its price point, allowing for smooth navigation even in light currents.
Best Uses for Budget Underwater Drones
1. Recreational Exploration
Budget underwater drones are perfect for:
- Exploring local lakes, ponds, and coastal areas.
- Pool and swimming hole investigations.
- Documenting underwater flora and fauna.
2. Basic Underwater Photography and Videography
Even with 1080p cameras, budget drones can capture:
- Underwater scenery and marine life.
- Swimming and snorkeling activities.
- Underwater selfies and group photos.
3. Educational Purposes
Affordable underwater drones make excellent teaching tools:
- STEM education and robotics classes.
- Marine biology and environmental studies.
- Citizen science projects.
4. Basic Inspections
Some practical applications include:
- Checking boat hulls for damage.
- Inspecting underwater structures in pools or ponds.
- Recovering dropped items in accessible waters.
Technological Advancements in Budget Underwater Drones (2025)
The 2025 market has seen several technological improvements in the budget segment:
Improved Battery Efficiency
Newer models feature more efficient batteries and power management systems, extending operation times without increasing costs.
Enhanced AI Integration
Even budget models now incorporate basic AI features:
- Autonomous navigation capabilities.
- Object recognition for better filming.
- Stability control in varying water conditions.
Miniaturization
Advancements in miniaturization have allowed manufacturers to pack more features into smaller, more affordable packages.
Limitations of Budget Underwater Drones
While budget underwater drones offer impressive capabilities, they do have limitations compared to their more expensive counterparts:
1. Depth Limitations
Most budget models are limited to depths under 100 feet, restricting their use to relatively shallow waters.
2. Camera and Sensor Quality
While adequate for recreational use, the cameras and sensors in sub-$500 drones cannot match the quality of professional models that may cost thousands.
3. Durability Concerns
Budget models typically use less expensive materials, which may impact their longevity, especially in harsh marine environments.
4. Limited Accessories
Higher-end underwater drones often support robotic arms, additional sensors, and other accessories that budget models cannot accommodate.
Maintenance Tips for Budget Underwater Drones
To maximize the lifespan of your investment:
- Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after each use, especially after saltwater exposure.
- Inspect tethers regularly for damage or wear.
- Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.
- Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions to preserve battery life.
- Check seals and O-rings before each use to prevent water ingress.
Final Thoughts
The underwater drone market in 2025 offers excellent options for budget-conscious explorers. The Chasing Dory stands out as the best overall pick under $500, providing an impressive balance of features, portability, and ease of use at an affordable price point.
The ThorRobotics Mariana offers an even more budget-friendly entry point, while the PowerVision PowerRay Explorer pushes the boundaries of image quality in this price range.
As technology continues to advance and miniaturize, we can expect even more capable underwater drones to enter the budget segment in the coming years.
