With the Garmin VIRB X and VIRB XE, the GPS world leader is actually putting its most valuable assets into interesting actioncams in order to compete with the undisputed actioncamera leader GoPro. These two iPhone connected action cameras are worth giving a try if in addition to recording movies of your adventures, you want to record data on your performance.
The VIRB Elite was the first action camera produced by Garmin. This one was less advanced and a bit too bulky to seriously compete with the GoPro. In 2015, Garmin launches the VIRB X and the VIRB XE which offer more interesting functionality and levels of performance. These qualities make these Garmin action cameras quite interesting when compared to GoPro’s. Regarding their design, the VIRB X and the VIRB XE are much more compact than their predecessor the VIRB Elite. Their rectangular shape obeys the what seems to be the standard on the action camera segment design. On their features point of view, both action cameras share most of their technical specifications, exept resolution.
Garmin VIRB XE: this action cam can be connected to your iPhone
Garmin VIRB XE and X: main technical characteristics
Here are the main technical specs of the Garmin VIRB XE and X:
- VIRB XE: HD resolution of 1440p in 30fps, or 1080p in 60fps
- VIRB X: 1080p in 30fps or 720p in 60fps
- VIRB X and XE : both offer slow motion video recording, image stabilization and digital zoom
- VIRB X and XE are both equipped with a still images mode of 12Megapixel, including burst mode
- Both cameras are waterproof up to 50 meters deep
- Battery life: 2 hours of recording time
VIRB XE: HD resolution of 1440p in 30fps or 1080p in 60fps and a 12Mp camera. The 4K video clearly remains the previledge of GoPro then.
VIRB X and XE: a GPS, an accelerometer and a gyroscope
You understand from reading the technical specs: it’s not from the resolution point of view that Garmin VIRB X and XE action cameras are going to kill GoPro on the market. So if you are not sensitive to the 4K video recording offer of the GoPro, then, Garmin may get your attention when you learn that the VIRB X and the VIRB XE cameras get a built-in GPS sensor, an accelerometer, and a gyroscope. Both cameras therefore can record your performances in terms of speed, acceleration, climbed height, etc. etc. Once the camera is connected to your iPhone via a WiFi, ANT+, or Bluetooth, the relevant data can be transferred to your iPhone and the iOS Garmin app. So if GoPro’s 4K video recording is not your cup of tea or what you are looking for, in addition and that in addition to recording your wildest adventures you would like to record your performances, then Garmin VIRB X and XE may be serious alternative to GoPros offers.
Garmin VIRB X and XE: prices and availability
Both action cameras are already available directly on Garmin’s online store. The VIRB XE is sold at the price of $399.99 and the Virb X is sold at the price of $299.99.