What To Know
- The VIRB, on the other hand, boasts a higher resolution, recording 1080p video at 60 fps, resulting in even smoother and more detailed footage.
- The Contour 2 features a built-in Wi-Fi module, allowing you to connect to your smartphone or tablet and control the camera remotely.
- Both the Contour 2 and the Garmin VIRB offer exceptional performance and features, making them strong contenders in the action camera market.
Choosing the right action camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the action camera arena are the Contour 2 and the Garmin VIRB. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive guide delves into the core features of both cameras, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Contour 2 and the Garmin VIRB, both boast rugged and compact designs, built to withstand the rigors of adventure. The Contour 2 features a sleek, cylindrical body with a comfortable grip. Its intuitive button layout makes it easy to operate, even with gloves on. The VIRB, on the other hand, adopts a more traditional rectangular shape with a larger display. It’s slightly heavier than the Contour 2 but still remains compact and portable. Both cameras are waterproof up to 10 meters without additional housing, ensuring they can capture your underwater adventures.
Video Recording Capabilities
Both cameras offer impressive video recording capabilities, catering to different needs. The Contour 2 records high-definition video in 1080p at 30 frames per second (fps), offering smooth and detailed footage. It also features a wide-angle lens that captures a broader field of view, ideal for capturing fast-paced action. The VIRB, on the other hand, boasts a higher resolution, recording 1080p video at 60 fps, resulting in even smoother and more detailed footage. It also offers various video recording modes, including slow motion and time-lapse, allowing you to capture creative and unique perspectives.
Image Capture
Both the Contour 2 and the VIRB can capture still images, but their capabilities differ. The Contour 2 captures images at a resolution of 5 megapixels, which is sufficient for sharing on social media or printing smaller prints. The VIRB, however, offers a higher resolution of 12 megapixels, capturing more detail and allowing for larger prints or cropping without sacrificing quality. Both cameras feature a burst mode for capturing a series of images in rapid succession, ideal for capturing fast-moving action.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for action cameras, as you don’t want to miss out on capturing crucial moments due to a dead battery. The Contour 2 boasts an impressive battery life of around 2.5 hours of continuous recording. The VIRB, however, falls slightly behind with a battery life of around 2 hours. Both cameras offer replaceable batteries, allowing you to carry spare batteries for extended recording sessions.
Connectivity and Features
Both cameras offer various connectivity options and features that enhance their usability. The Contour 2 features a built-in Wi-Fi module, allowing you to connect to your smartphone or tablet and control the camera remotely. You can also use the Contour app to review footage, adjust settings, and share your adventures on social media. The VIRB also offers Wi-Fi connectivity and a dedicated app for remote control and footage review. Additionally, the VIRB features GPS functionality, allowing you to track your location and overlay data like speed and altitude onto your videos.
Price and Value
The Contour 2 and the Garmin VIRB are priced competitively, offering excellent value for their features. The Contour 2 is generally more affordable, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. The VIRB, on the other hand, comes at a slightly higher price point, reflecting its additional features like higher resolution video recording and GPS functionality.
The Verdict: Which Camera Wins?
Choosing between the Contour 2 and the Garmin VIRB ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for an affordable camera with excellent video quality and a user-friendly design, the Contour 2 is an excellent choice. However, if you require higher resolution video, GPS tracking, and additional features, the Garmin VIRB might be the better option.
The Final Word: Choosing the Right Action Camera for You
Both the Contour 2 and the Garmin VIRB offer exceptional performance and features, making them strong contenders in the action camera market. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and desired features, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect camera to capture your adventures.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which camera is better for capturing fast-paced action?
A: Both cameras excel at capturing fast-paced action, but the Garmin VIRB‘s higher frame rate (60 fps) provides smoother and more detailed footage.
Q: Does either camera offer image stabilization?
A: Neither the Contour 2 nor the Garmin VIRB offers built-in image stabilization. However, you can purchase external stabilizers to reduce camera shake.
Q: Can I use both cameras with external microphones?
A: Both cameras support external microphones, allowing you to capture high-quality audio for your videos.
Q: What are some alternatives to the Contour 2 and the Garmin VIRB?
A: Some popular alternatives include the GoPro Hero series, the DJI Osmo Action, and the Sony RX0. These cameras offer various features and price points, catering to different needs and budgets.