Test Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Underwater Photography Review and 2026 Score

You've seen the Samsung ads. The S24 Ultra is presented as the king of terrestrial photography. But underwater, reality is different. Water absorbs colors, reduces contrast, and pushes sensors to their limits. I took this phone below the surface to see what it really has to offer. No marketing hype, just real-world performance. When you're at 20 meters deep with a grouper looking at you, you don't have time to struggle with complicated menus. You need a device that reacts quickly and handles variations in light. The S24 Ultra promises a lot with its titanium frame and multiple lenses. But is that enough to capture beautiful images in natural light? Let's find out right away.

Overall Score: 4.5/5

B1. Optics: Remarkable Versatility

The key factor underwater is the ability to capture light. The S24 Ultra's main sensor performs remarkably well. The ultra-wide lens is perfect for capturing ambiance and wrecks. Telephoto lenses are less useful underwater due to the loss of sharpness associated with distance, but the 3x zoom is helpful for turtle portraits.

Learn More Main sensor: 200 MP (f/1.7). Ultra-wide lens: 12 MP (f/2.2). Telephoto lenses: 10 MP (3x) and 50 MP (5x).

B2. RAW Format: Flexibility Above All

Shooting in JPEG underwater is a mistake. The S24 Ultra excels thanks to its Expert RAW application. The generated DNG files contain a wealth of information. This is crucial for bringing back reds and oranges during post-processing. The sensor's dynamic range handles backlight towards the surface well.

Learn More 16-bit DNG files via Expert RAW. Integrated color profiles for Lightroom.### B3. Storage: Speed and Efficiency When you return from a dive, you want to quickly transfer the photos and videos from your phone. The USB 3.2 port at 10 Gbps makes a huge difference. Transfers to an external SSD are incredibly fast. If you prefer wireless connectivity, Quick Share is very effective for sending your images to a tablet or computer.

Learn More USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) connectivity. Wi-Fi 7. Native Quick Share.

B4. Thermal Management: Titanium Does the Job

Phones can overheat in underwater housings. The S24 Ultra uses a titanium frame and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. This combination effectively manages heat. I didn't experience any thermal throttling during my dives, even in water temperatures of 28 degrees Celsius. Still, keep it shaded on the boat.

Learn More Titanium frame. Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy SoC. Enlarged vapor chamber.

B5. Battery: Proven Endurance

Keeping the screen constantly illuminated at maximum brightness drains the battery quickly. With its 5000 mAh capacity, the S24 Ultra holds up well. You can complete your three dives of the day without needing to find a power outlet. Just remember to lower the brightness during safety stops or when you're not taking photos.

Learn More 5000 mAh battery. 45W fast charging.

Before each dive session, be sure to check your external battery pack. Use our portable battery comparator tool to choose the power bank that's right for your housing and your desired battery life.### B6. Autofocus: Fast but improvable The autofocus is quick. It locks onto moving subjects well. However, like many smartphones, it can be distracted by particles suspended in the water. Tapping on the screen allows you to force the focus where you want it.

Learn more Multi-directional phase detection autofocus. Laser AF.

B7. Underwater Housing: The rational choice

You can't put this phone in just any housing. The Divevolk SeaTouch 4 Max is the standard. Be careful, for the S24 Ultra, you absolutely need the Platinum version. It is designed to fit the size of the lenses and allows you to use the touchscreen underwater with impressive fluidity.

Learn more Compatibility with Divevolk SeaTouch 4 Max Platinum. Patented touch membrane.

To ensure your smartphone fits securely and compare interior volume, make sure to check if your model's dimensions fit in this housing.

The right housing

Don't look for cheap alternatives. The Divevolk SeaTouch 4 Max Platinum is the only one that gives you full access to the touchscreen. This is essential for using Expert RAW and adjusting your settings underwater.

On-site workflow

The workflow is smooth. You come out of the water, rinse the housing, and take out the phone. With USB 3.2, backing up to an SSD takes a few minutes. You can start editing your photos in Lightroom Mobile directly on the large screen of the phone during the return trip.### Important Considerations Titanium dissipates heat well, but direct sunlight remains your enemy. Never leave your housing in full sun on the boat deck. Cover it with a damp towel.

The Price

This is a significant investment. The phone plus the Platinum housing represent a substantial budget. However, you have a complete production tool in your pocket.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a powerhouse for underwater photography in natural light. Its main sensor and the Expert RAW app offer image quality that rivals good dedicated compact cameras. Thermal management is excellent, and battery life is reassuring. If you have the budget and are willing to spend time on post-processing, this is an outstanding choice. You will not be disappointed with the results.

Having a good phone is not enough to take beautiful photos. You need to understand light, how to approach animals, and post-processing. I have created specific training programs to help you master underwater photography in natural light. Join us at AquaExposure to discover our courses and transform your images. AquaExposure Training

To learn more about condensation and overheating, read our dedicated article: Smartphone Overheating and Condensation in an Underwater Housing.

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