What To Know
- The Roam 2 also features a durable polycarbonate shell that can withstand drops and shocks, ensuring it can handle the bumps and bruises of adventure.
- The Contour Roam 2 features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to wirelessly connect to your smartphone or tablet and control the camera remotely.
- The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker, on the other hand, has a slightly shorter battery life, lasting for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes of continuous recording.
Choosing the perfect action camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two contenders that often come up in discussions are the Contour Roam 2 and the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker. Both cameras are designed to capture your adventures in stunning detail, but they differ in features, durability, and overall performance. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camera, helping you decide which one best suits your needs.
Design and Durability: Built for the Wild
The Contour Roam 2 and the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker are both built to withstand the rigors of extreme activities. The Contour Roam 2 boasts a rugged, compact design with a sleek, black exterior. It’s waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet) without a housing, making it ideal for snorkeling and shallow dives. The Roam 2 also features a durable polycarbonate shell that can withstand drops and shocks, ensuring it can handle the bumps and bruises of adventure.
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker takes durability to another level. It’s waterproof to an impressive 30 meters (98 feet), making it suitable for deeper dives and underwater exploration. It’s also shockproof to a height of 2.1 meters (7 feet), crushproof to 100 kgf, and freezeproof to -10°C (14°F). This makes the TG-Tracker a true “tough” camera, capable of handling even the most extreme conditions.
Video Quality: Capturing the Action in High Definition
Both cameras offer high-definition video recording capabilities, but there are some key differences to consider. The Contour Roam 2 records 1080p video at 30 frames per second (fps), producing smooth, high-quality footage. It also features a wide-angle lens that captures a broad field of view, perfect for capturing expansive landscapes and fast-paced action.
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker takes video quality a step further, offering 4K video recording at 30 fps. This allows for even sharper, more detailed footage, ideal for capturing intricate details and slow-motion sequences. The TG-Tracker also features a unique “Time Lapse” mode, allowing you to create captivating time-lapse videos of your adventures.
Image Quality: Stills for Memories
While primarily known for their video capabilities, both cameras also offer still image capture. The Contour Roam 2 takes 12-megapixel photos, providing decent image quality for sharing on social media or printing in smaller sizes. The TG-Tracker, however, takes 16-megapixel photos, resulting in sharper images with more detail, especially when printed in larger formats.
Connectivity and Features: Staying Connected and in Control
Both cameras offer various connectivity options and features to enhance your experience. The Contour Roam 2 features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to wirelessly connect to your smartphone or tablet and control the camera remotely. You can also use the Contour app to preview footage, adjust settings, and share your adventures directly to social media.
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker also offers Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling remote control and sharing. Additionally, it features built-in GPS, allowing you to track your location and add geo-tags to your photos and videos. This feature is particularly useful for adventure enthusiasts who want to document their routes and explore new territories.
Battery Life: Powering Your Adventures
Battery life is a crucial factor when choosing an action camera, especially if you’re planning extended excursions. The Contour Roam 2 boasts an impressive battery life, lasting for around 2 hours of continuous recording. This makes it ideal for day-long adventures without worrying about running out of power.
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker, on the other hand, has a slightly shorter battery life, lasting for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes of continuous recording. However, it features a removable battery, allowing you to carry spare batteries and extend your recording time.
Price: Finding the Right Balance
The price point is another important consideration when making your decision. The Contour Roam 2 is generally more affordable than the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users who are looking for a reliable and capable action camera.
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker, with its advanced features and durability, comes at a slightly higher price point. However, its superior video quality, comprehensive features, and extreme durability justify the investment for those seeking the ultimate action camera experience.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Action Cam for You
Ultimately, the best action camera for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a rugged, affordable camera with good video quality and long battery life, the Contour Roam 2 is a solid choice. However, if you need the ultimate durability, 4K video recording, and advanced features like GPS, the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is the clear winner.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which camera is better for underwater filming?
A: The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is better for underwater filming due to its deeper waterproof rating (30 meters vs. 10 meters for the Contour Roam 2).
Q: Which camera has better image stabilization?
A: Both cameras offer image stabilization, but the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker has a slightly better stabilization system, resulting in smoother footage, especially in challenging conditions.
Q: Are both cameras compatible with external microphones?
A: Yes, both cameras offer external microphone compatibility, allowing you to capture high-quality audio for your videos.
Q: Which camera is easier to use?
A: Both cameras are relatively user-friendly, but the Contour Roam 2 has a simpler interface, making it easier for beginners to learn and operate.
Q: Which camera is better for professional videographers?
A: The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker offers more professional-level features, including 4K video recording and advanced image stabilization, making it a better choice for professional videographers.