1. Tough Little Tyke
The folks at Olympus are not messing around: This beast is waterproof to 30 meters (without a housing, mind you), works in temps as low as -10° C, is drop-proof from 2 meters and crush-proof to 100kg. What’s more, the Tough TG-Tracker has brains to go with brawn with a thirst for data that just won’t quit. (getolympus.com)
2. Smart and Stylish
OK, so the resolution isn’t crazy high and waterproofing is limited to a splash-proof lens cover, but for the weekend warrior, these are small concessions. TomTom’s bullet-shaped beauty is jammed with technology and its app features a function that will automatically assemble your best shots. Best of all, with a shake it will create a compilation video that’s a snap to upload. (tomtom.com)
3. Leading the Pack
From the name synonymous with outdoor adventure, GoPro’s newest improves upon its predecessor thanks to HyperSmooth in-camera video stabilization. It’s so good, people are ditching their gimbals. The company’s editing program TimeWarp syncs with HyperSmooth for the sleekest time-lapse photography ever. Waterproof to 10 meters, too. (gopro.com)
4. Steady the Adventure
Silky smooth stabilization, 8MP still photo and 4K/30fps video filming steal the show here. The unit’s Balanced Optical SteadyShot smooths out your gnarliest adventures. A wrist-worn touchscreen accessory called Live-View allows remote operation, though experts give that gizmo mixed reviews. But cheer up: Sony throws in a waterproof housing, good to 60 meters. (sony.com)
5. Affordable Performance
Looking to get a full-functioned action cam without the heavy pricetag? Check out the 4K+, which delivers comparable performance at a much lower cost. YI’s model delivers smooth 4K/60fps video, voice commands and a bright, crisp display that helps when framing in sunlight. The camera isn’t waterproof, but a waterproof casing is an available add-on. (yitechnology.com)
