Camcorder Conundrum: Contour Roam vs Olympus Tough TG Tracker – Which One Deserves a Spot in Your Gear?

What To Know

  • The Contour Roam boasts a rugged, compact design with a durable polycarbonate shell, making it resistant to shocks, drops, and water.
  • Both the Contour Roam and the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker offer a range of features to enhance your shooting experience.
  • But if you’re an adrenaline junkie who demands the best in terms of video quality, durability, and features, the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is the ultimate action camera for you.

Choosing the right action camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the action cam arena are the Contour Roam and the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker. Both cameras offer robust features and impressive capabilities, but each caters to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the key aspects of each camera, helping you determine which one fits your adventurous spirit best.

Design and Durability: Built for the Wild

Both the Contour Roam and the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker are designed to withstand the rigors of extreme activities. The Contour Roam boasts a rugged, compact design with a durable polycarbonate shell, making it resistant to shocks, drops, and water. It features a waterproof rating of up to 10 meters, allowing you to capture underwater adventures without additional housing.
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker, on the other hand, takes durability to another level. It’s built like a tank, featuring a shockproof rating of up to 2.1 meters, a waterproof rating of up to 15 meters, and a crushproof rating of up to 100 kgf. This makes it ideal for extreme activities like diving, skiing, and mountain biking.

Video Quality: Capturing Every Moment in High Definition

When it comes to video quality, both cameras offer impressive capabilities. The Contour Roam records 1080p Full HD video at 30 frames per second, capturing smooth and detailed footage. It also features a wide-angle lens, providing a wider field of view for capturing expansive landscapes and action-packed scenes.
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker, however, takes video quality to a whole new level. It records 4K Ultra HD video at 30 frames per second, delivering stunning clarity and detail. It also features a 170-degree wide-angle lens, capturing even wider perspectives for immersive viewing experiences.

Features and Functionality: Beyond the Basics

Both the Contour Roam and the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker offer a range of features to enhance your shooting experience. The Contour Roam features a built-in LCD screen for real-time monitoring, allowing you to frame your shots and check your recordings. It also offers a variety of mounting options, including a helmet mount, handlebar mount, and chest mount.
The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker goes beyond the basics with its advanced features. It boasts a built-in GPS receiver, allowing you to track your location and speed during your adventures. It also features a built-in compass and altimeter, providing additional data for your recordings. Additionally, it offers Wi-Fi connectivity for easy sharing and remote control.

Battery Life: Powering Your Adventures

Battery life is a crucial factor for action cameras, especially when you’re on the go. The Contour Roam offers a decent battery life, lasting for approximately 2 hours of continuous recording. The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker, however, has a slightly shorter battery life, lasting for about 1.5 hours of continuous recording.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance

When it comes to price, the Contour Roam is generally more affordable than the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious adventurers. However, the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker offers greater value with its advanced features, superior video quality, and exceptional durability.

Choosing the Right Action Camera: A Final Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between the Contour Roam and the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a durable and affordable action camera with decent video quality, the Contour Roam is a solid choice. However, if you prioritize superior video quality, advanced features, and exceptional durability, the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is the clear winner.

The Final Word: Beyond the Comparison

While this comparison focuses on the technical aspects of both cameras, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and intended use. If you’re a casual adventurer who enjoys capturing your experiences on the go, the Contour Roam might be sufficient. But if you’re an adrenaline junkie who demands the best in terms of video quality, durability, and features, the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is the ultimate action camera for you.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I use the Contour Roam for underwater filming?
A: Yes, the Contour Roam is waterproof up to 10 meters, allowing you to capture underwater footage without additional housing.
Q: How does the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker’s GPS feature work?
A: The TG-Tracker’s built-in GPS receiver tracks your location and speed, which is then superimposed onto your video footage, providing valuable data for your adventures.
Q: What are the different mounting options available for the Contour Roam?
A: The Contour Roam offers a variety of mounting options, including helmet mounts, handlebar mounts, chest mounts, and more.
Q: Is the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker compatible with external microphones?
A: Yes, the Olympus Tough TG-Tracker features a microphone input, allowing you to connect external microphones for improved audio quality.
Q: Can I edit my videos directly on the Contour Roam or Olympus Tough TG-Tracker?
A: Both cameras allow you to view and playback your recordings on their built-in screens, but they don’t offer in-camera editing capabilities. You can edit your videos using dedicated software on your computer or mobile device.