A shockproof digital camera is not a camera that is able to stabilize an image if the camera is shaken during the photo, but one that is able to withstand being dropped and is made to be extra durable. To facilitate this durability, a shockproof digital camera is typically made of thick metal or plastic, so it will feel slightly bulkier than a regular camera, but its size is relatively the same. Shockproof cameras often have other resistances, such as being able to withstand water or freezing temperatures, but this is not always true. Most shockproof cameras are rated against a certain fall distance, so the user will know if the camera will potentially break from a fall of a certain height.
Many people have been trying to take a picture or are simply carrying their camera around when it is dropped. Sometimes the camera will be all right but, more often, the camera will shatter or some part will break. A shockproof digital camera aims to prevent this problem by making the camera more durable, so it can withstand being dropped on hard surfaces such as tile or stone. Since it is resistant to damage, hikers and others who are often outside tend to favor these cameras.
To make a shockproof digital camera more durable, it is made of thicker materials than other cameras. This is usually a thick plastic or metal, and glass portions such as the lens have coverings or are stabilized so a drop will not damage them. While thicker, and usually heavier than other cameras, they are generally about the same size.
Shockproof digital cameras are often fall-rated, allowing the user to know how far the camera can fall without harm. This rating will usually be displayed on a sticker, on the packaging, or in the camera's user manual. The typical safety rating is between 5 feet and 7 feet (1.52 to 2.1 meters). The camera usually can be dropped from a slightly higher level than the rating states and still be fine, but the camera manufacturer will not guarantee this. There are no material ratings, because the camera is designed to remain intact regardless of the surface on which it lands.
They are already made to be shock resistant, so shockproof digital camera units are typically afforded other resistances. This includes waterproofing for use underwater, temperature-proofing so it can remain in working order even in low temperatures, and crush-proofing so it can withstand substantial weights. While these are common finds, they are not absolutes; some cameras will only include shock resistance.