Quick summary
- The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 boasts a 4K resolution at 30fps, while the GoPro HERO9 goes a step further with a 5K resolution at 30fps.
- Both cameras offer a wide field of view, but the GoPro HERO9 has a slight edge with its SuperView mode.
- The GoPro HERO9 is also durable, but it is not as robust as the VIRB Ultra 30.
The world of action cameras is a competitive one, with two giants standing out above the rest: Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 and GoPro HERO9. These cameras offer a plethora of features and capabilities, making it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 vs GoPro HERO9, examining their key specifications, features, and performance to help you make an informed decision.
Image Quality
Resolution and Frame Rate
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 boasts a 4K resolution at 30fps, while the GoPro HERO9 goes a step further with a 5K resolution at 30fps. For high-speed action shots, the GoPro HERO9 offers a 2.7K resolution at 120fps, while the VIRB Ultra 30 is limited to 1080p at 120fps.
Field of View
Both cameras offer a wide field of view, but the GoPro HERO9 has a slight edge with its SuperView mode. This mode provides a 155-degree field of view, capturing a wider perspective than the VIRB Ultra 30’s 122-degree field of view.
Stabilization
Electronic Image Stabilization
Both the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 and GoPro HERO9 feature electronic image stabilization (EIS) to reduce camera shake and ensure smooth footage. The GoPro HERO9’s HyperSmooth 3.0 is widely regarded as the industry-leading EIS technology, providing exceptional stabilization even in extreme conditions.
Mechanical Stabilization
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 stands out with its built-in 3-axis gimbal, offering superior mechanical stabilization. This gimbal system provides smooth footage even when the camera is attached to a helmet or other moving object. The GoPro HERO9 does not have built-in mechanical stabilization, but it supports the use of external gimbals.
Audio Quality
Microphone
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 features four built-in microphones with noise reduction, capturing clear and immersive audio. The GoPro HERO9 also has built-in microphones, but it offers the option to connect external microphones for enhanced audio quality.
Wind Noise Reduction
Both cameras employ wind noise reduction algorithms to minimize wind interference during recording. The GoPro HERO9’s wind noise reduction is particularly effective, reducing wind noise by up to 30%.
Connectivity
Wireless Connectivity
Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote control and file transfer. The GoPro HERO9 also supports LTE connectivity, allowing for live streaming and remote access to footage.
GPS
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is equipped with built-in GPS, providing data overlays and location tracking. The GoPro HERO9 does not have built-in GPS, but it can connect to an external GPS device for data tracking.
Durability and Waterproofing
Durability
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is renowned for its rugged durability, meeting military-grade standards for shock, vibration, and temperature resistance. The GoPro HERO9 is also durable, but it is not as robust as the VIRB Ultra 30.
Waterproofing
Both cameras are waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet), making them suitable for underwater activities. However, the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 has a higher waterproof rating of 50 meters (164 feet).
Battery Life
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 has a battery life of up to 2.5 hours when recording 4K video, while the GoPro HERO9 has a battery life of up to 1.5 hours when recording 5K video. Both cameras support external battery packs for extended recording time.
Additional Features
Voice Control
Both cameras offer voice control, allowing you to start and stop recording, take photos, and change settings using voice commands. The GoPro HERO9’s voice control is more comprehensive, supporting a wider range of commands.
Time-Lapse and Hyperlapse
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 and GoPro HERO9 both offer time-lapse and hyperlapse modes, allowing you to create dynamic and engaging videos. The GoPro HERO9’s TimeWarp 3.0 mode is particularly impressive, providing automatic speed adjustments to create smooth and stabilized time-lapse videos.
The Verdict
Choosing between the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 and GoPro HERO9 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize durability, mechanical stabilization, and battery life, the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is the better choice. However, if you value high resolution, advanced stabilization, and a wider range of features, the GoPro HERO9 is the clear winner.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q1: Which camera has better image quality?
The GoPro HERO9 offers higher resolution and a wider field of view, but the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30’s gimbal stabilization provides smoother footage.
Q2: Which camera has better stabilization?
The GoPro HERO9’s HyperSmooth 3.0 EIS is exceptional, but the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30’s built-in gimbal provides superior mechanical stabilization.
Q3: Which camera is more durable?
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 is more durable, meeting military-grade standards for shock and vibration resistance.
Q4: Which camera has better battery life?
The Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 has a longer battery life of up to 2.5 hours when recording 4K video.
Q5: Which camera is better for underwater use?
Both cameras are waterproof up to 10 meters, but the Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 has a higher waterproof rating of 50 meters.