The differences are most apparent in the shape of the design, and then some superfluous features in Contour's different models. There are pros and cons to every design, and it really just depends on which is best for your application (i.e. which drawbacks you are willing to suffer through). While GoPros are notoriously rugged with the housing they come in, contour has a bunch of features that set it apart (perhaps not so much with the lower end '1080')
Contour:
- Low profile shape and rotatable lens makes them great for head mounting. Likewise, the sliding recording switch takes the guesswork out of knowing if it is on or off (it can be tough with a gopro, since it is just a beep and an LED)
- Bluetooth viewfinder on the GPS and PLUS allows you to use smart phones (iphones + android) to check angles and adjust exposure settings.
- Replaceable lenses, and 37 mm adaptor option to use filters
- Waterproof cases rated up to 60 m deep (relatively flat lens enhances focus underwater also, probably not a big deal for motorvlogging)
- All standard HD Resolutions and Framerates (up to 60 fps @ 720)
There was recently a big price drop with the GPS and the 1080 as the 1080 is being discontinued and replaced at some point in the fall. There has been no info on what (if any) new product will be released, but it is definitely a good time to pick up a solid camera at a decent price point before they are all liquidated.
