Garmin VIRB vs Samsung Gear 360 2017: Which Camcorder Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right 360° camera can be a daunting task, especially with a plethora of options available. Two popular contenders in the 2017 market were the Garmin VIRB 360 and the Samsung Gear 360 (2017). Both cameras offered unique features and functionalities, catering to different needs and preferences. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Garmin VIRB 360 and the Samsung Gear 360 (2017), helping you determine which camera best suits your specific requirements.

Design and Build Quality

The Garmin VIRB 360 boasts a rugged and durable design, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and extreme sports. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to carry and maneuver. The camera features a protective casing that can withstand harsh weather conditions and accidental drops.
On the other hand, the Samsung Gear 360 (2017) adopts a more sleek and stylish design, making it ideal for everyday use and capturing social events. Its smaller size and lighter weight compared to the VIRB 360 make it more portable and convenient for everyday use. However, its build quality is not as robust as the VIRB 360, making it more susceptible to damage.

Image and Video Quality

Both cameras offer impressive image and video quality, but with distinct characteristics. The Garmin VIRB 360 captures high-resolution 5.7K 360° video at 30 frames per second (fps), while the Samsung Gear 360 (2017) records 4K 360° video at 24 fps. The VIRB 360’s higher resolution and frame rate result in sharper and smoother footage, particularly when viewing in 360° mode.
The Gear 360 (2017) excels in its ability to capture high-quality stills, with its 15MP dual lenses producing detailed and vibrant images. The VIRB 360 also offers still photo capabilities, but its focus is more on video recording.

Features and Functionality

The Garmin VIRB 360 is packed with features designed to enhance the user experience and provide greater control over recordings. It offers built-in stabilization, GPS tracking, and voice control, making it a powerful tool for capturing action-packed moments. Additionally, its compatibility with the VIRB Edit software allows for seamless editing and post-production.
The Samsung Gear 360 (2017) focuses on user-friendliness and ease of use. Its intuitive interface and mobile app make it easy to control the camera and share content on social media platforms. It also supports live streaming, allowing users to share their experiences in real-time.

Battery Life and Storage

Both cameras offer decent battery life, but the Garmin VIRB 360 boasts a slightly longer runtime. Its battery can last for approximately 2 hours of continuous recording at 5.7K resolution. The Samsung Gear 360 (2017) provides about 1.5 hours of recording time at 4K resolution.
In terms of storage, both cameras support microSD cards, allowing users to expand their recording capacity. The VIRB 360 supports cards up to 128GB, while the Gear 360 (2017) accepts cards up to 256GB.

Price and Availability

The Garmin VIRB 360 is generally priced higher than the Samsung Gear 360 (2017). This price difference reflects the VIRB 360’s superior image and video quality, rugged build, and advanced features. However, the Gear 360 (2017) offers a more affordable option for users seeking a quality 360° camera without breaking the bank.

Which Camera is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Garmin VIRB 360 and Samsung Gear 360 (2017) depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Garmin VIRB 360 if:

• You prioritize high-quality video recording with excellent stabilization and detail.
• You need a durable and rugged camera for outdoor adventures and extreme sports.
• You value advanced features like GPS tracking and voice control.

Choose the Samsung Gear 360 (2017) if:

• You prioritize ease of use and a compact design for everyday use.
• You value high-quality still images and live streaming capabilities.
• You are on a tighter budget.

The Final Verdict: Beyond the Battle

While both the Garmin VIRB 360 and Samsung Gear 360 (2017) are excellent 360° cameras, they each excel in different aspects. The VIRB 360 is the champion of action-packed video recording, while the Gear 360 (2017) shines in its user-friendliness and still image quality. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and budget.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I edit 360° footage on a standard video editor?
A: While some video editors may support 360° footage, it’s generally recommended to use specialized software like the VIRB Edit software for the Garmin VIRB 360 or the Samsung Gear 360 app for the Samsung Gear 360 (2017). These software tools provide dedicated features for editing and manipulating 360° content.
Q: Can I use these cameras for live streaming?
A: The Samsung Gear 360 (2017) supports live streaming, allowing users to share their experiences in real-time. The Garmin VIRB 360 does not offer live streaming capabilities.
Q: What are the differences in the field of view between the two cameras?
A: Both cameras offer a full 360° field of view, capturing everything around them. However, the Garmin VIRB 360 has a slightly wider field of view due to its larger lens size.
Q: Which camera is better for capturing underwater footage?
A: The Garmin VIRB 360 is a better choice for underwater footage due to its waterproof design and more robust build. The Samsung Gear 360 (2017) is not designed for underwater use.
Q: What are the storage options for these cameras?
A: Both cameras support microSD cards for expanded storage. The Garmin VIRB 360 supports cards up to 128GB, while the Samsung Gear 360 (2017) accepts cards up to 256GB.