As a well-established brand in the world of GPS devices, Garmin has brought their experience into the POV market with some clever cameras that collect GPS data while recording videos. Their new VIRB X and XE models contain several sensors to collect common measurements, and allow wireless connectivity to other devices for additional data inputs.
Garmin’s VIRB X and XE cameras come in a rugged waterproof casing, and offer some cool features like slow-motion video, still photo capability and customizable performance indicator gauges overlaid on the video image.
Click past the break for more info, specs and demo video…
The VIRB cameras come with a number of common features, but can be customized for specific pursuits. For example, cyclists can pair up heart rate monitors and cycling computers to track relevant data like speed, distance, heart rate and cadence.
Garmin’s VIRB X and XE cameras share most of the same features and functions. The company’s G-metrix system uses the GPS network to track various data like speed, distance, and elevation, which can be overlaid into your video. The mobile or desktop software included with the camera allows you to add preset gauges, graphs or course shapes onto your video image. If Garmin’s preset gauges don’t work for you, you can design and add your own icons with the free gauge building tool. The included VIRB Edit software allows you to edit your footage and G-Metrix gauges, add music and switch between footage from multiple cameras.
The camera can be wirelessly monitored and controlled by smartphones or other Garmin devices, including additional VIRB cameras for multi-shots. Footage from multiple cameras is automatically synched using GPS timestamp data, so you don’t have to struggle to line things up during the editing process. The VIRB also hosts a time-lapse function with adjustable intervals of up to 120 seconds between still shots. The extended time-lapse mode shuts the camera down between pictures to retain your battery life for as long as possible.
The VIRB X and XE’s rectangular bodies measure 3” by 1.6” by 1.4”, and feature a 1″ display for setting up menu options and reviewing footage. The body is waterproof to 50m, and the outer lens is a flat, hydrophobic glass pane that sheds water droplets. The cameras include a built-in microphone, and can host an external mic via a cable input or Bluetooth audio. For easy operation Garmin has employed a one-touch recording button that will automatically ‘wake up’ the camera when pressed, even if it’s switched off. The VIRB X or XE weighs 5.35oz/152g.
Garmin has a variety of mount options including curved, flat deck, dash, handlebar, seat post, helmet and chest mounts, plus multi-use straps if all else fails. The mounts can be tightened with an allen key for security and vibration resistance, and a universal adapter allows compatibility with other aftermarket and industry standard mounts.
Common Specs for VIRB X and XE:
Connectivity
• Bluetooth: Yes (4.0)
• ANT+® compatible: Yes (remote and sensors)
• Interface: USB 2.0
• HDMI output: No
• Wi-Fi streaming: Yes (802.11 bgn)
Miscellaneous
• GPS: Yes
• Temperature range: From -20° to 45°C (from -4° to 113°F) (operating); from 0° to 45°C (from 32° to 113°F) (charging); from -40° to 85°C (from -40° to 185°F) (storage)
• Memory: microSD™ card (up to 128 GB); card not included
• Accelerometer: Yes
• Altimeter: No
• Waterproof to 50 meters without a dive case
• Image stabilization: Yes (Gyro-enhanced on XE model)
• Lens distortion correction: Yes
Battery
• Battery type: Rechargeable 980mAh Li-polymer
• Battery capacity: 980 mAh
• Battery life: 1080p (30fps), up to 2 hours
VIRB X: The X model films video in 1080p but offers fewer frame rate options then the XE. Its slow-mo tops out at 120fps, and it shoots up to 10fps in photo burst mode. The X model does not offer the Pro Mode video controls, and has lesser image stabilization capabilities versus the XE. Retail is $299.99.
Video:
• Image sensor: 12.4 MP, 1/2.3″ CMOS
• File Type: .mp4
• 1080p HD video: 30, 25 fps
• 960p HD video: 30, 25 fps
• 720p HD video: 60, 50, 30, 25 fps
• 480p (slow motion): 120 fps
• Still photo resolution: 12 MP and 7 MP
• Photo burst: 12MP at 10 fps
• Photo time lapse: custom up to 120 second intervals
In the Box:
• VIRB X action camera
• Rechargeable battery pack
• Charging/data cable
• Flat and curved adhesive mounts
• Standard mount adapter
• Long screw
• Wrench
• Manual
VIRB XE: The higher-end XE model adds more frame rate and resolution options including 240fps slow-motion. It also provides better image stabilization, shoots still photos at up to 30fps, and hosts a Pro Mode that opens up additional video features like white balance and exposure biasing. Garmin also tosses in a few extra mount adapters with the XE. The VIRB XE sells for $399.99
Video:
• Image sensor: 12.4 MP, 1/2.3″ CMOS
• File Type: .mp4
• 1080p HD video: 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24 fps
• 960p HD video: 100, 60, 50 fps
• 720p HD video: 120, 100, 60, 50, 30, 25 fps
• 480p (slow motion): 240 fps
• Still photo resolution: 12 MP and 7 MP
• Photo burst: 12MP at 30 fps
• Photo time lapse: custom up to 120 second intervals
In The Box:
• VIRB XE action camera
• Rechargeable battery pack
• Charging/data cable
• Flat and curved adhesive mounts
• Standard and vertical mount adapters
• Short and long extension arms
• Short and long screws
• Wrench
• Manual
Other than capturing 4K, anyone else thinking this ticks all the right boxes?
