Submarine drones, otherwise known as ROVs (remotely operated vehicles), are becoming popular for underwater photography, filming and exploration. Before we get to the list, a couple of quick facts.
- Most underwater drones are attached to a tether, because radio waves do not travel easily through water. The tether controls movement, streams video and tracks the drone. Wireless models are emerging but remain limited.
- Most submarine drones carry 4K cameras and powerful LED headlamps for deep, dark water. They differ mainly in speed, operating depth, size, weight and battery life.
Here are nine of the best underwater drones to use in Australia.
1. Biki
- Weight: 1.1kg
- Speed: 0.5 metres/second
- A simple, streamlined body that mimics the movement of a fish. Affordable entry point.
2. Nemo
- Weight: 3.6kg
- Speed: 2 metres/second
- Ergonomically designed to glide easily and move fast through the water. Great value.
3. Gladius Mini
- Weight: 2.5kg
- Speed: 2 metres/second
- Streamlined five-thruster design with excellent stability for filming.
4. PowerRay
- Weight: 3.8kg
- Speed: 2 metres/second
- Tough aluminium core inside a sleek, shock-absorbing body. Popular with anglers.
5. MITO
- Weight: 3.45kg
- Speed: 2 metres/second
- Four-thruster design with a tilt-lock function from -45 to +45 degrees.
6. FIFISH
- Weight: 3.9kg
- Speed: 1.5 metres/second
- Six-thruster omnidirectional design with 4K camera and tether plug.
7. CCROV
- Weight: 5.5kg
- Speed: 1 metre/second
- Four horizontal and two vertical thrusters, 4K/30fps camera and 100m diving capacity.
8. iBubble
- Weight: ~7kg
- Autonomous and wireless
- Follows divers hands-free and films them automatically. Built for scuba.
9. BW Space
- Weight: 3.5kg
- Speed: 1.5 metres/second
- 4K camera with intelligent auto-follow and vertical movement control.
Whichever model you choose, check the operating depth, tether length and battery life against how you actually plan to use it. And if aerial drones are more your thing, our CASA-approved drone courses will get you flying commercially.