ContourHD 1080p Helmet Camcorder
It’s here at last: my comparison of VHoldR’s ContourHD 720p and new 1080p helmet camcorders, in which I give both cams the thrashings they so richly deserve—and then I tell you to buy one.
Both the VHoldRs are quicky and often frustrating little cameras, but they are also capable of capturing amazing results. For the full scoop on my ire and angst, please see my ContourHD 1080p Review.
The Bridge to NowhereA favorite Southern California day hike and a dramatic collision between grand plans and nature's wrath.
Mt. Whitney: The East FaceEnjoy a little Fresh Air on Mount Whitney's East Face — an extraordinary high alpine rock climbing route.
PCT: Onion Valley to Cottonwood PassThe Pacific Crest Trail from Onion Valley to Cottonwood Pass—a five day, fifty mile hike through the interior Sierra.
North Palisade: the U-NotchGlaciers, couloirs, and rock in the heart of the High Sierra: 14,242' North Palisade is a true California classic.
Sandstone Peak: Mishe Mokwa LoopOcean, canyon, and city views abound in this easy day hike to the top of Southern California's Santa Monica Mountains.
Mt. San Jacinto: Round Valley TrailEscape the desert's merciless heat via the Palm Springs Aerial Tram and Mount San Jacinto's Round Valley Trail.
Mt. Russell: East RidgeExplore the bleeding edge of Sierra Class 3 climbing on this day hike up Mount Russell's exposed East Ridge.
Grand Canyon: Walter Powell RouteMy brother and I go off the map in the Grand Canyon to find Walter Powell's 1869 rim-to-river route.
March 17th, 2010 at 8:45 am
Have you tried the GoPro HD? I love this little bugger. It isn’t without its own faults, but lacks many of the exposure and mounting issues you’re talking about here.
March 17th, 2010 at 10:15 am
I’m very interested in the GoPro. Hopefully I’ll have a sample to play around with in the next few weeks. Very curious how it compares.
March 19th, 2010 at 4:29 am
Also a fan of the GoPro HD, although it does have a few little issues, as Rom says.
March 22nd, 2010 at 1:47 am
Excellent review, very useful information when you are looking around to buy a camera like this. Thanks, even though I am slightly put off buying it now
March 22nd, 2010 at 6:27 am
Michael,
I think the key is to go in with managed expectations. If you’ve got a high-quality HD video camera and you’re thinking you’re going to get similar sharpness and density, you’re in for an unpleasant surprise. But The Contour 1080p (in 720 mode) is currently my tool of choice for gonzo p.o.v. footage–and I do get great results with it.