Garmin takes aim at GoPro with new rugged action cameras starting from $299

Garmin might be more closely associated with fitness and outdoors than some brands, but when it comes to rugged, sporting action cameras, the company that probably springs to mind is GoPro.

However, Garmin wants to change that with the introduction of its Virb X and Virb XE action cams. With a new, more streamlined form factor and additional mounting options, the company says the devices are now more versatile than ever before. They’re also waterproof up to 50 meters, without the need for any sort of external casing.

It added that both have a “plethora of built-in sensors and wireless functionality options, which can be utilized through the new G-Metrix feature for a wide array of data overlays and a richer viewing experience.”

So, for example, you could play back your footage with high G-loads displayed on screen, or your vehicle’s speed or direction etc. The cameras will also connect to Garmin’s Fenix 3 smartwatch for additional data and overlay options.

The VIRB XE is the higher-spec of the two devices, offering up 1440p capture at 30fps or 1080p capture at 60fps, while the VIRB X maxes out at 1080p at 30fps and 720p at 60fps. The XE model also features a ‘pro’ mode that allows you to control things like white balance, sharpness, color profile, ISO, exposure bias and more. Both models can capture still images of up to 12-megapixels.

Both cameras will go on sale this summer, and that the X will have a retail price of around $300, and the XE around $400.

➤ Introducing VIRB X and VIRB XE, the Next Generation Action Cams from Garmin [Press release]