Garmin Virb Action Cam --- preliminary review

My GoPro Hero 3 died, so I bought this discontinued Garmin Virb model:



Here are some +'s and -'s for the Virb, based on my limited use and observations so far.

+ The Virb has a viewfinder built in, and although it's pretty dim, it's still a positive feature, IMHO.

+ It seems rugged, and it's water resistant (to 1 meter) without a case, so it should work well for above-water shots on the kayak.

+ Battery life is supposed to be good (3 hours recording time), and it supports 64GB micro SD cards. A lot of the cheap cameras can only use 32GB cards.

+ It comes with an adapter that connects to GoPro mounts.

- There is a waterproof case, but it's sold separately and lists for $40, although I found them at West Marine for $20.

- I assumed that since it can be used without a case, I'd be able to get some decent audio. But the mic just got wind noise in my test. Some people online claim to have had success with a cheap external microphone, so I might try that.

The Virb is heavier than the GoPro, but that's not going to be an issue on the kayak. Also, the oblong shape means that some mounting positions are not feasible (head strap, chest mount), but the shape might actually be an advantage when dragging it thru the water (with the waterproof case, of course).

Anyways, just thought I'd post this preliminary review in case anybody is considering the camera. Since it's discontinued and discounted, I don't think they'll be available for much longer.

Maybe try putting it in a sock as a makeshift wind screen? Closed cell foam or fake fur might be better but most people have socks.

Maybe try putting it in a sock as a makeshift wind screen? Closed cell foam or fake fur might be better but most people have socks.

When attached to the mount, there is a little foam thing that covers the microphone hole. I think it's mostly to keep water out, but it's also supposed to serve as wind screen. I think I'll try fiddling around with that to see if I can get a little better sound out of it...

I have one that I got a few months ago and I have really enjoyed it so far. The viewfinder is great and the battery life has been decent. I would suggest getting the remote for it. Its a wrist band style remote, only has on, off, and can take a still photo shot. Pretty basic but very handy.

I have one that I got a few months ago and I have really enjoyed it so far. The viewfinder is great and the battery life has been decent. I would suggest getting the remote for it. Its a wrist band style remote, only has on, off, and can take a still photo shot. Pretty basic but very handy.

I'll look into getting the remote. In any case, I can't wait to try it out on the water...