action cameras are a dime a dozen, which begs the question: do we need another? perhaps we do, if we have one that has all the qualities of a good action camera and also does more than just capturing footages. such is what the GPS maker Garmin is proposing with the Garmin VIRB Action Cameras. two models are being offered here; the VIRB and the VIRB Elite. common features on both models include Full HD videoing (at 30 fps), 16MP stills with photo burst and time lapse options, rechargeable 2,000 mAh lithium-ion battery for up to three hours of HD recording per charge, a low power 1.4″ Chroma display for previewing footages, digital image stabilization and lens distortion correction, micro HDMI output, and of course, a beautiful, rugged construction is built tough to take on bumps, drops and IPX-7 waterproofing that allows it to take a dive up to one meter for up to 30 minutes. an optional dive case is available for taking it down to 50 meters. though it is worthy to note that neither model comes with internal storage – storage is only via microSD card, which you have to supply your own.
the VIRB Elite further features high-sensitivity GPS, built-in accelerometer, altimeter, as well as WiFi. the latter allows you to connect with iPhone app and Android apps. the Elite also features ANT+ connectivity allowing other compatible Garmin devices, such as the Fenix, to control the VIRB remotely. with ANT+, the Elite is also compatible with other sensors with ANT+ connectivity to extract data such as heart rate, temperature and more, and embedded those data into the video during editing process, or simply review them on the VIRB Elite’s display. the Garmin VIRB Action Cameras will be available next month with price tag of $299.99 for the Garmin VIRB and $399.99 for the Garmin VIRB Elite. have a few more look in the gallery below and also check out a product promo video further down the page.
