Garmin Takes Another Stab At GoPro With Two VIRB Rugged Action Cameras

Garmin isn't ready to concede the action camera market to GoPro, hence the announcement of two new next generation models, the VIRB X and VIRB XE. Both of Garmin's new HD cameras are compact and capable of shooting wide-angle footage, and both bring an an all-new form factor with additional mounting options to the table.

Like GoPro's Hero line, the VIRB X and VIRB XE are designed for action shots, whether it's taking tight corners on a motorcycle or snowboarding down a challenging mountain at breakneck speeds. Regardless of the activity, the cameras will capture your footage in a range of harsh environments -- both are waterproof to 50 meters without needing an external case.

VIRB XE

"With the updated design, enhanced recording options, built-in sensors and the introduction of G-Metrix, VIRB X and XE represent a bold step forward in the evolution of action cameras for consumers and professionals alike," said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of worldwide sales. "We are extremely excited to bring these cameras to market, and see not only the content that users share, but also how far, how fast, and how crazy their adventures really are."

The VIRB XE can capture footage at 1440p/30fps and 1080p/60fps with super slow-mo, image stabilization, and different zoom levels, while the VIRB X can capture material at 1080p/30fps and 720p/60fps, also with slow-mo and zoom options (but no image stabilization). Both cameras can snap photos at up to 12 megapixels, with the VIRB XE upping the ante with a Pro Mode that offers more advanced manual camera adjustments such as white balance control, sharpness, color profile control, ISO limit, and exposure bias.


Using the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and the VIRB mobile app, users can tap into the cameras on their smartphone or tablet to see a live stream of video, control and view multiple cameras, and even edit and overlay G-Metrix data collected from internal sensors like the high-sensitivity GPS, accelerometer, and gyroscope.

The VIRB X and VIRB XE will be available this summer for $300 and $400, respectively.