Action cameras have been around for years. GoPro is still the leading and most popular brand among sports enthusiasts, but now it has more serious competition than ever before. After Sony, Kodac, Polaroid, SJcam, Xiaomi and other companies joined the action camera party, Japanese manufacturer Ricoh released the second iteration of their original rugged action camera the WG-M2. The successor still sports the same compact and lightweight body as well as a 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor but now, the new model is capable of shooting 4K video at 30fps.
Further, the camera is capable of diving into depths of up to 20m/65ft, an improvement over the prior model’s 9.8m/32ft waterproof rating, and is 40% smaller and lighter than its predecessor. The Ricoh WG-M2 can operate in temperatures as low as -10°C/14°F and will survive falls up to 2m/6.5ft. The camera offers a 204-degree lens, and in addition to 4K footage is capable of recording 1080p video at 60p and 720p at 120p. On top, the WG-M2 records 4K movies at a decent bit rate of approximately 100 megabits per second.
The best part is the WG2 doesn’t require a separate camera housing as the body is water-proofed and shock-resistant. All that is needed for protection is to attach one of the two included lens protectors, with one specifically designed for underwater use. Additionally, the camera takes 8MP stills in single-shot or in burst mode at approximately 8 fps for 10 frames.
You can utilise the entire 204° angle of view of the lens for your pictures and videos, or use a narrower 150° angle of view. A Video Capture Orientation Correction setting is available that lets users rotate the captured image in 90° increments to help adjust for the mounting position of the camera, and to help maintain a level horizon.
In addition to on-camera control and monitoring, you can also use the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi to remotely monitor and control the unit from a mobile device running the Ricoh Image Sync app. The WG2 also sports large control buttons and 1.5″ LCD monitor for a flawless control along the line. The camera includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides around 80 minutes of continuous 4K recording.
The WG2 action camera from Ricoh also features micro-USB and micro-HDMI connectivity and records video and stills to microSD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. Furthermore, users can choose from 7 selectable video effect modes, Time-Lapse Movie mode for 30x, 60x, and 150x speed movies, Extended Move Recording, Vibration Assist function to confirm record start/stop and more.
The Ricoh WG-M2 is already available for pre-order for less than $300 at selected retailers around the globe.
Order Links:
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
Claim your copy of DAVINCI RESOLVE - SIMPLIFIED COURSE. Get Instant Access!
