The Varia Vue: A Next-Generation Action Camera
Recording Capabilities
The Varia Vue can capture 4K video for up to six hours on a full charge, but battery life is reduced to as little as 1.25 hours with the headlight set to its brightest setting. To compensate, dropping the camera’s resolution to 1080P at 30fps can boost recording times to up to nine hours, or up to 1.5 hours with the headlight at full brightness.
Features and Functions
Electronic image stabilization helps to reduce shakiness in footage captured on rough terrain, while continuous recording allows the events leading up to an incident (detected by the Vue’s accelerometer) to be stored alongside the aftermath. With the camera paired to devices like Garmin’s smartwatches, cycling computers, or even its mobile app, video is recorded with GPS speed and location information.
Additional Recording Modes
To further maximize battery life, the Vue can be connected to Garmin’s camera-equipped radar taillight. Not only does that unlock an additional recording mode where the Vue only starts to capture footage when a vehicle approaches from behind, it also allows incidents to be captured from two different angles.
Storage and Sharing
Footage is recorded locally to an SD card, but when connected to Wi-Fi, videos can be automatically uploaded to the online Garmin Vault for added security. However, that feature requires either a $9.99 monthly subscription or a $99.99 annual one.
Headlight Capabilities
Garmin says the Vue’s headlight has a maximum brightness of 600 lumens, but that’s only available in a flashing mode designed for daytime use. At full brightness, the Vue outputs 550 lumens, and can be dimmed to as low as 140 lumens. The headlight is also designed with a cutoff beam that angles the illumination down onto the road so it doesn’t shine in the eyes of oncoming drivers.
Conclusion
The Varia Vue offers an impressive range of features and functions, including the ability to capture 4K video, electronic image stabilization, and continuous recording. Its compatibility with Garmin’s other devices and the option to connect to a radar taillight further enhance its capabilities. While battery life may be a concern, the Vue’s ability to adapt to different recording modes and its automatic upload feature to the Garmin Vault make it a compelling option for those looking for a high-quality action camera.
FAQs
Q: How long does the Varia Vue’s battery last?
A: The Varia Vue’s battery life varies depending on the setting. It can capture 4K video for up to six hours on a full charge, but drops to as little as 1.25 hours with the headlight set to its brightest setting.
Q: Can I record video with the Varia Vue’s headlight set to its brightest setting?
A: Yes, but battery life will be reduced to as little as 1.25 hours.
Q: Can I upload videos to the Garmin Vault without a subscription?
A: No, automatic upload to the Garmin Vault requires either a $9.99 monthly subscription or a $99.99 annual one.
