CONTOUR ROAM3

Remember the ultra-practical waterproof ROAM2 camera we featured a while ago? Well, it seems that the Contour action-cam manufacturer is back on track after a temporary hiatus with yet another super-smart camera piece designed for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers looking to capture their adventures and stunts on video. According to the producer, ROAM3 offers “the best video and sound quality of any Contour to date” in a revamped and improved model based on the previously released ROAM2 and Contour+2 blueprints.

On top of the super-sharp 270-degree rotating lens and an incredible 170-degree wide-angle field of view to keep your shots level at all times, ROAM3 also boasts an improved microphone for better audio quality, advanced laser alignment system (instead of the standard viewfinder used in most camera in the category) and a locking instant-on slide-to-record button for shooting-made-simple. Packed inside a rugged all-aluminum body attached to a standard tripod base mount, ROAM3 is waterproof up to 30 feet without a protection case which means that you’ll get crystal-clear footage on hard ground and under water alike. Thanks to its quick photo mode option, ROAM3 does not need any additional camera mounts or lengthy settings adjustments – simply press the status button and hold it for a few seconds, and the camera switches to the photo mode. Also, the camera’s one-touch Instant On-Record switch easily locks into place allowing you to start filming as soon as you’ve switched your ROAM3 on.

Footage-wise, Contour’s latest action camera can capture 1080p/30 fps and 720p/60fps videos and 5-megapixel stills (either in single frame or burst mode), which are then stored onto an included 8GB micro SD card. Unfortunately, unlike its predecessor Contour+2, ROAM3 does not include Wi-Fi connectivity which means that you’ll have to plug the camera into the computer and install the Contour software if you want to adjust the settings at some point. Also, the latest Contour cam lacks GPS video mapping, live streaming options and an external mic jack, but the manufacturer says that the camera’s waterproof design and a couple of improved features guarantee maximum versatility on any given adventure, be it snorkeling, diving, snowboarding, swimming, biking or parachuting, which is more than enough to make up for these few connectivity weaknesses.

Measuring 7 x 5.2 x 1.8 inches and weighing 13.6 ounces, ROAM3 is compatible with every Contour mount so you’ll be able to capture your videos and stills at unlimited angles anytime, anywhere. In the box with your ROAM3 and the memory slot, you’ll also find a rotating flat surface mount and profile mount for your helmet, as well as a powerful built-in rechargeable lithium ion battery.

Get it from Amazon here