Vantrue E360 Dash Cam: two-minute review

Dash cam manufacturers are becoming ever more inventive in their quest to stay ahead of the pack. This has resulted in many different variations on the theme, with many models offering much more than just a forward-facing recorded view of the road.

One of the big features starting to appear in the specification of the best dash cams is 360-degree capture. The Vantrue E360 Dash Cam is a prime example of this, and I’ve been using it for a while to see if it’s worth considering.

I’ve already tried the decidedly bulbous 70mai 360 Omni, which adopts a slightly different approach to 360-degree capture by using a revolving lens – the latest incarnation has been beefed up to shoot 4K video too. The Vantrue E360 Dash Cam isn’t quite as chunky, although it’s not far off, and it delivers a neat alternative for capturing more complete coverage of the road ahead, the road behind, and inside the vehicle cabin.

I’ve been testing the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam Ace bundle, which is a big box of tricks that includes the 5.2K, dual-lens 30fps unit that shoots with a 210-degree field of view from each lens to produce a 360-degree effect in playback mode. There’s also a more conventional rear-facing unit included for good measure, and the bundle also features a tripod stand, so the E360 can double as an action cam. The base-level package doesn't include the rear camera and the tripod if those are surplus to your requirements.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam is its ease of setup and installation. I was impressed by this fact when testing the Vantrue E1 Pro recently, especially when it came to working through the configuration steps using the rear screen. You get the same ease of use with this model, despite the fact that the specification left me thinking there might be some tinkering involved. That's not the case however, and I was able to quickly pick my way through the touchscreen menus on the back of the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam.

Naturally, if the rearward-facing camera is part of the picture, there will be some extra wiring to install. Either way, Vantrue packs everything needed into the box, with a well laid out instruction manual proving invaluable. I tend to favor using static film strips for mounting dash cams, as they make for easier removal, and Vantrue has the mounting bracket design process down to a tee too. In fact, the overall feeling I got from the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam was that everything was really well thought out.

If you go for the basic, non-Ace bundle, the box contains the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam, GPS mount, adhesive stickers, three cable clips, 3.3ft / 1m of USB data cable, 11.5ft / 3.5m of car charging cable, plus ancillaries including a dust cloth, electrostatic stickers, a plastic cable tool and a quick user guide. Choose the Ace bundle and you also get a rear-facing camera and a handheld mount / tripod for using the Vantrue E360 as a standalone action-style camera.

The Vantrue E360 is essentially a premium solution, so alongside the headline-grabbing 360-degree capture the Chinese brand also throws in every other essential. There's a Sony Starvis 2 sensor, 5G Wi-Fi for rapid-fire transfer, infrared night vision and impressive HDR capabilities, plus support for microSD cards up to 512GB. However, it’s worth remembering that the high-spec nature of this model means it generates lots of data.

Similarly, as is the standard, the parking and 24-hour monitoring features will require the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam to be hardwired into a vehicle, which can be done using an optional kit. Vantrue has a comprehensive supporting app, which is ideally suited for managing the large files generated by such a high-spec unit. Anyone who's concerned about monitoring their vehicle at all times can also invest in a Vantrue LTE module, which is an option for live streaming should it be needed.

Vantrue E360 Dash Cam: price and availability

The Vantrue E360 Dash Cam is available now from Amazon and can be configured to suit your own needs. The standard Vantrue E360 Dash Cam is available for $270 / £268 from the Vantrue website.

The Vantrue E360 Ace Dash Cam bundle, which comes with the addition of a rearward camera and a tripod, costs from $350 via Amazon in the US. In the UK, the bundle has a RRP of £483, but it's currently on sale £383 from the Vantrue website or Amazon.

The LTE module for the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam can also be purchased as a standalone option, as can the hardwire kit.

Vantrue E360 Dash Cam: specs

Vantrue E360 Dash Cam: Design

Vantrue appears to place a strong emphasis on quality, and I was very impressed with the overall look and feel of the E360. The main camera unit itself is a chunky little thing, which does tend to encroach into the windshield area, especially on cars with smaller screens, but it’s longer rather than wider, and feels very solid to the touch. The same goes for the mounting bracket, which lets the user unclip the camera easily so it can double up as an action cam.

The clean lines of the main camera unit aren’t spoilt by lots of buttons either. There’s a big button on the side, which can be used to power up the camera and also to record an emergency snapshot. There’s a power cable port on the top, and underneath the base is a slot for a microSD card, which accepts capacities up to 512GB.

Dominating the rear is the 1.54-inch touchscreen, which is made of really good-quality plastic and offers a clear view when it’s on. This is dotted with various icons that offer camera information as well as indicating when the unit is functioning correctly. The only downside is that these icons are quite small, especially if you’re glancing at them on the move. However, the main point of contact for interacting with this model is the Vantrue app, which packs in everything needed for complete file management, as well as allowing for more precise control of settings.

Vantrue E360 Dash Cam: Performance

Given the bold claims made by Vantrue and the impressive specification of the E360 Dash Cam I was expecting a lot, and the main camera doesn’t disappoint in terms of the clarity it delivers. Even the view on the 1.54-inch rear touchscreen is impressive, but the footage looks even better when examined in the app or on a desktop computer or laptop. Alongside the excellent footage, the GPS data is also recorded and displayed along the foot of the video, so I was more than happy with that side of things.

Personally though, I’m not too keen on the rather fishbowl effect created by the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam. There’s no doubting that it does exactly what Vantrue promises, but I’m left wondering if I wouldn’t just prefer a standard-issue front-facing dash cam supplemented by a small rear-facing unit. Such bundles are widely available, and have become very affordable too. The Vantrue E360 Dash Cam is very good, but it feels a bit like overkill to me.

There’s no doubting the potency of the Sony Starvis 2 sensor, but the capture method might not appeal to everyone. On the upside, Vantrue does offer different options for the recording process, including 360-degree panorama, fisheye, and dual fisheye, but it still looks a little bit odd to me. The appeal, therefore, might be a bit on the niche side, but there’s no doubting that the hardware here is top-notch.

I can certainly see the appeal for anyone who wants a camera that can do a little bit of everything though. As mentioned, it's easy to unclip the camera unit and use it as an action cam shoot – it’s a great supplementary option that adds value, especially when using the option of the tripod contained in the Ace bundle.

Overall, then, I can’t really fault the shooting capabilities of the lens and sensor arrangement, and they deliver the goods both day and night. License plate details, for example, are as legible as you’d expect from a high-specification dash cam like this. Equally though, the Vantrue E1 Pro meets my needs just as well, and for a lot less money, although it doesn’t have the rearward-facing capability either.

Should you buy the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Vantrue E360 Dash Cam

• I installed the dash cam in two test cars for an initial period of three weeks
• I used it for numerous journeys during the day and at night
• I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings to assess their quality

Vantrue loaned me the E360 Dash Cam and supplied everything I needed to test it. This included a 128GB microSD card and a hardwire kit, which is an optional extra. However, because I needed to move the camera between vehicles, I was unable to test the parking monitoring feature.

Aside from that, I installed and set up the E360 as per the instructions, and used it during a variety of journeys. This included journeys at different times of the day in order to test all the capabilities of the package, especially after dark.

I tested the accompanying Vantrue app on an Apple iPhone to check transfer rates, using both Wi-Fi and a cable connection to my laptop, and managed the larger 4K files using the same resources.

• First reviewed April 2025

Vantrue E1 Pro dash cam: two-minute review

While there are literally hundreds of models to choose from out there, I always prefer to stick with the big-name best dash cams. This includes the likes of Nextbase, Garmin, and Vantrue, which recently unveiled its new and updated Element 1 Pro Dash Cam (more commonly referred to as the E1 Pro).

The E1 Pro is well worth a look for anyone who needs a compact, cost effective in-car solution. It's centered around the small black box design, which measures (approx) just 4.7 x 2 x 4.7 inches / 12 x 5 x 12cm. Even then, the design manages to squeeze in a neat little LCD screen on the rear, which proves invaluable for setup steps during installation. The information graphics are a little less easy to read when it’s being used on the move, but it’s a valuable part of the E1 Pro’s appeal.

Vantrue originally released this model a few years ago, and we got to take a first look at it back in 2022, when it was known as the Vantrue E1. The design appears to have changed little since then, with one of its most distinctive features being the protruding circular lens arrangement.

However, Vantrue has beefed up the innards, so instead of 2.5K video there's now crisp and clear 4K 3840 x 2160p 30fps footage on offer thanks to a Sony IMX678 Starvis 2 sensor. Another appealing factor of this model is the 158-degree wide-angle lens, which offers a pretty expansive view of the road ahead.

Vantrue also likes to highlight its PlatePix software, which is designed to offer greater clarity when capturing details such as license plates or road signs. The company claims this delivers a 50 percent clearer view than standard 4K HDR.

High-quality footage needs card space, and to that end Vantrue has upped the microSD card compatibility to a whopping 1TB, although my test unit arrived with a rather leaner 128GB card. Alongside the improved shooting capacity, the Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam packs in plenty of other features and functions, including voice control, a solid supporting app with fast Wi-Fi transfer rates, GPS, and improved temperature protection, as well as the benefit of a supercapacitor internal battery.

My review unit also came supplied with a circular polarizing filter or CPL, which can be screwed to the front of the lens. This cuts through reflections and glare, and can be particularly useful in situations where harsh light is an issue, especially when it comes to capturing finer details including license plates. There's also a remote control if the buttons on the box itself, or voice control, don’t appeal.

The box includes everything you need to get up and running, including all the cables and an installation tool for pushing wires behind trim. The Vantrue E1 Pro is designed to operate as a solo unit, so there's no option to plug a rear-facing camera into the assembly. However, it's keenly priced, so should appeal to anyone who's going to be content with a front-facing only model.

Another point to remember – and this is the case for the majority of dash cam models, is that the Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam will need to be hard-wired into a vehicle to exploit its advanced parking features. Power can also be supplied via a standard 12V socket, which is found in the majority of vehicles; however, there is value in the parking mode, in which the E1 Pro can capture footage 15 seconds before and 30 seconds after motion is detected. If you’re prone to parking in less-than-ideal neighborhoods, it could be a valuable feature, and worth the extra cost of adding in the hardwire kit.

Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam: price and availability

The Vantrue Element E1 Pro Dash Cam is often listed by its model number, the E1 Pro, and is available now directly from the Vantrue website as well as online retailers including Amazon. VanTrue has it listed for £139.99 in the UK market and $129.99 in the US, while Amazon lists it for £129.99 in the UK, and sells the E1 Pro for $149.99 in the US. As always, it’s worth shopping around and keeping an eye out for special offers, as prices for dash cams can fluctuate a lot. I'd expect this model to be regularly on sale for a good 10% less.

The keen price point pits the E1 Pro against the likes of the Nextbase Piqo 2K and Miofive S1 and is excellent value for the features on board.

Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam: specs

Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam: Design

One of the most appealing aspects of the Vantrue E1 Pro is its cute, cubist design. It’s basically just a small black plastic box, but with all of the stuff needed to make it appealing at the same time. There’s an LCD screen on the back, which packs in a very decent resolution and looks great in use, even though the information icons packed into the small viewing area are a bit too much to take in with a quick glance.

Another great feature with this model is the mounting bracket, which can be attached to a windshield directly via an adhesive pad or by first mounting it to a static sheet, which makes removal easier if the camera needs to be transferred to another vehicle. While it is in situ, the dash cam also features a slide-out bracket, which means the camera can be pulled out and put away if needed, leaving just the windshield part in place.

As mentioned, Vantrue now supplies this model with a polarizing filter, which I found to be a valuable addition, especially for use in variable lighting conditions. Fitting it can be a little awkward, mind, especially for anyone with large fingers, as the threading process is quite fiddly. Nevertheless, I like the way this also keeps the F1.8, 7-glass lens nicely covered, and it's much easier to wipe over in case of any unwanted fingerprint marks. Overall, the build quality is very impressive, and everything you need to get started is inside the box, including a Type C data cable if Wi-Fi isn’t available.

Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam: Performance

Specification was left a little bit wanting on the original incarnation of this design, and i's in this department where the real improvements have been made. Vantrue has upped the quality of the innards, with 4K 3840 x 2160p 30fps footage now delivered very nicely by the Sony IMX678 Starvis 2 sensor. The F1.8 lens and 158-degree wide-angle field of view captures impressive coverage of the road ahead, and I found little to grumble about during everyday use.

The addition of the polarizing filter is useful, and it did seem to keep glare to a minimum, and VanTrue’s PlatePix software seems quite good at boosting the definition of license plates and the like. Similarly impressive results were recorded after dark, so I do think this model is a solid all-rounder, and clearly an improvement over the original model – and it can be purchased for roughly the same price.

Vantrue is a past master at delivering great app support, and that’s very much the case here. As this model shoots 4K there is a little more to think about in terms of file management, although the up-to 1TB microSD card option takes the pressure off a lot. That capacity can handle up to 66 hours of footage, plus the loop recording can be adjusted in 1-, 2-, or 3-minute segments. There is also the appeal of Wi-Fi transfer; otherwise the Vantrue E1 Pro supports what is fairly standard 5G, or cable transfer if that’s preferred.

Should you buy the Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam

• I installed the dash cam into a test car for an initial period of two weeks
• I used it for various journeys during the day and at night
• I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings for comparison

After receiving my review loan unit, I fitted the Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam to a family-sized car using the supplied cable and powered it via the 12V socket. The camera was fitted with a 128GB microSD card, which allowed me to test the reliability of recording 4K files to media. The resulting data was also shared to my phone, with files being managed by the VanTrue app on an Apple iPhone, along with cable transfer for good measure.

One of the very useful features of the Vantrue E1 Pro Dash Cam is the mounting bracket, which allowed me to remove it whenever needed and click it back into place just as quickly. Although I wasn’t able to hard-wire this model into my test vehicle, I have every reason to expect the optional parking monitoring features to function just as well as everything else.

• First reviewed April 2025

Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: one-minute review

It’s easy to stick with the big name best dash cams, but if you’re not fussed about brand then the low-key Ombar and its DC42 Dash Cam might be an alternative route to take. The Ombar DC42 Dash Cam I’ve been testing comes supplied as a bundle, which means there are two cameras inside the box. First up, the front-facing unit features a slender design that sits in landscape orientation well out of the way on a vehicle screen. It boasts 4K video capture too, plus very acceptable levels of audio, although there’s no rear screen, which might be a turn-off to some.

This is augmented by a second, rear-facing dashcam that shoots 2K. Instead of utilizing the same old barrel design that is seen in many dash cam bundles, this unit is a small rectangular design and can be easily mounted in the rear window of the majority of vehicles. Everything works via a series of cables, with one going to the power and the other connecting the cameras together. In this respect, it’s worth remembering that there is quite a lot of cable to feed in behind trim panels during the installation process. Both cameras are held in place by supplied sticky pads that adhere to the mounting plates and screen glass.

The Ombar DC42 Dash Cam has to be one of the easiest models to setup and configure, with much of this needing to be done via the supplementary app. The front camera unit also hosts some handy LEDs, one in red to tell you it’s recording neighbored by a small green LED that indicates GPS is activated. Microphone and camera reset holes sit immediately adjacent to them. Another benefit is down to the design, which alongside being super svelte offers a sliding mount that enables quick and easy removal of the front-facing camera if and when it is needed.

Adding to the appeal is the specification, which includes 170-degree field of vision for the front camera, 5G Wi-Fi, voice guidance, night vision, 64GB of storage and parking monitoring. The latter functionality requires an optional hardwire kit. Indeed, the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam comes with a dazzling array of features and functions given the fact that it retails for just over the $100/£100 mark, which makes it a great option for anyone on a budget. There’s a supporting Ombar ‘Kacam’ app too. This takes the place of a rear screen on the main unit and provides all of the tools needed for file management, as well as initial setup.

Another bonus with this bundle is that the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam comes with a supplied 64GB microSD card, which slots into the end of the front camera. Everything else needed is in the box too, with all wires and fixings supplied. However, it’s worth remembering that the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam is just like the majority of other models in that it will need permanent fixing in your vehicle using an optional hardwire kit if all of the static parking and 24-hour monitoring tools are required. Nevertheless, this is a straightforward fitment job for any qualified individual and can even be attempted by novices if time and care is taken.

Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: price and availability

The Ombar DC42 Dash Cam is available now and, in the bundle arrangement I’ve been testing, can be purchased from the manufacturer’s website. It’s listed there as the OMBAR DC42 Dash Cam Front and Rear 4K/2K/1080P+1080P 5G WiFi GPS and currently costs just $107.99 (around £84). This represents a $12 saving over the original cost price of $119.99 although shipping needs to be added and depends on the delivery location and route using either the US postal service or UPS.

Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: specs

Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: Design

I rather like the design of the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam. It’s very sleek and slender, which worked well when I tried it in a couple of different models of vehicle. In fact, it can sit quite happily just behind the rear-view mirror and is barely visible.

The unit looks and feels well made too, featuring a construction of grey heavy-duty plastic, along with a selection of ports and LEDs that also look and feel very durable during daily use. Of course, the downside here is there’s no rear screen, but a respectable supporting app takes good care of dash cam and file management.

Backing it up is the secondary camera, which sports a neat little rectangular design that sits happily in the rear window of a car. Both cameras are affixed using self-adhesive pads attached to brackets. The one for the front camera has a handy slider mechanism, so it can be detached quickly and easily if you need to take it with you for some reason.

Then there’s the cabling, which is standard issue dash cam wiring that needs to be fed behind trim panels in the car. The rear camera wire connects with a push fit to link it to the front unit.

Ombar DC42 Dash Cam: Performance

Considering the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam is essentially a budget model, this is an impressive bundle arrangement. The front-facing camera delivers crisp and clear F1.8 aperture, 4K, UHD footage shot at 3840x2160p maximum with very good audio as well. The rear-facing unit is a 2K capable offering, but the footage is still very serviceable and feels like it would definitely be of use in the event of any kind of incident. After installation, I found the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam to be reassuringly low maintenance.

In fact, it operated seamlessly and offers an audible alert once you’ve switched the vehicle on, plus there’s the bonus of the LEDs that glow to show the camera is working. I found this handy considering there’s no rear screen for this model. The so-called Kacam app, by Ombar itself, is neat too with a user-friendly interface that doesn’t deliver any surprises.

File transfer is impressive as well thanks to up to 5Ghz transfer rates. Ombar keeps its processor information quite well hidden, but to be honest I couldn’t fault the Galaxycore internals, which certainly never failed during my time using both dash cams.

I’ve been mightily impressed by the after-dark capabilities of the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam, which makes it very notable as the WDR and Super Night Vision tools built-in seem able to capture license plates and road signs without fuss or bother. This adds additional value to the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam and, again, makes the dash cam bundle particularly appealing if you make a lot of journeys after the sun has gone down.

Another extra that I got good use from was the voice prompt feature, which allowed me to confirm settings, like if the Wi-Fi was connected. Rounding out this impressive package is the benefit of built-in GPS tracking, which is always good for gathering data about any journey, including date, time and speed.

Should you buy the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam

• I installed the dash cam into two test cars for an initial period of three weeks
• I used it for numerous journeys during both day and night
• I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings for comparison

I got to test the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam over the course of a few weeks and had the benefit of being able to try it in more than one vehicle. That allowed me to check just how flexible the design was, especially when it came to removing the dash cam after use. The sliding bracket is super handy, although this does leave the base bit sticking to the windshield, which has to be removed for installation in another car.

However, due to the temporary fitment situation, I wasn’t able to fully explore the parking features, which requires permanent installation using the optional hard wire kit. Nevertheless, based on performance during daylight and after dark hours, I have every reason to think that the Ombar DC42 Dash Cam should work very well in this scenario. I particularly liked the low maintenance way it just got on the with job.

• First reviewed March 2025

70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam: one-minute review

I remember reading the review of the original 70mai 360 Omni Dash Cam just over a year or so ago and thinking it was something of a curio. After all, it’s easy to ponder over the appeal of a camera that can rotate 360 degrees while attached to the windshield of a car. As it turns out though, the 70mai 360 Omni is ideally suited to anyone who wants to record a variety of angles using just one in-car camera. It is also perfect for anyone who vlogs from behind the wheel.

The new and improved version of the original is called the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam and the not-so-secret is in the title; a new Sony Starvis 2 IMX678 sensor which delivers crisp and clear 4K video footage up to 60fps. Performance is therefore beefier than the earlier incarnation, but there are other highlights too, including AI Motion Detection 2.0, 70mai’s after dark tool called Lumi Vision, voice control and dual-channel HDR capability.

If you’ve never seen it before, the Omni is a quirky looking creation. The design hangs down from your windshield in a similar way to the smaller and less capable Nextbase Piqo. In fact, it’s a slightly odd thing to look at, far removed from the more conventional design lines of, say, the Viofo A229 Pro Dash Cam or indeed any of the other best dash cams out there for that matter. However, the design is perfect for the task in hand as it includes a revolving lower section that contains the lens assembly, which rotates as and when it’s needed.

Another addition this time around is the option for two-channel shooting, thanks to this particular bundle containing a secondary rear-facing camera, which captures video in 1080p. It’s more conventional to look at than the front-facing Omni and connects to the main unit via a lengthy piece of cable. Both cameras can be controlled using 70mai’s app, which has been reinvented in order to exploit the newer features and functions offered by the upgraded Omni unit. Voice activation is another bonus control option.

As you’d expect from an upgraded product, the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam is more potent. In fact, 70mai’s own figures suggest a 68 percent improvement in sensor size compared to the original Starvis, a 90 percent improvement in light sensitivity and a 100 percent improvement in low light performance. In addition, there’s a larger rear screen, improved field of view, beefier Wi-Fi plus a supercapacitor/ button cell battery setup for increased efficiency. On paper, the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam sounds like a drastic improvement over the older product.

70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam: price and availability

The 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam will cost from $279.99 / £268 for the single model and $406 / £389 for the 4K Omni with the rear camera, 256GB microSD card and a hardwire kit. There will also be various bundle offers from 70mai offering variations on the theme, details of which can be found on their website or by searching for the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam on Amazon.

70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam: specs

70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam: Design

On first impressions, the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam looks remarkably similar to its lower specification predecessor. The bulbous body design has been retained and this both looks and feels like a quality component. However, as noted in the previous review, the body does need to be handled with care as the lower part contains the 360-degree rotating lens section, which if forcibly handled feels like it could affect performance. Aside from that, the overall design of the body feels rugged enough and is manufactured from quality plastic.

As before, the buttons on the side are brightly colored in red while on the other side of the unit, there now sits a microSD card slot. This also has a rubberized type of cover on it to keep dust, dirt and moisture out, even when the card is in situ. Meanwhile, there’s an angled joint that divides the sticky part of the windshield attachment with the rest of the body, so it’s quick and easy to get the camera positioned correctly, no matter what the angle of the screen is.

Around at the back of the main camera body is the 1.4-inch IPS screen, which is a step up from the 1.2-inches of the previous model. Again, the screen covering looks and feels rugged enough while the resolution of the various graphics is crisp and clear. Most of the management of the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam is best done via the supplementary app, although there is also the added bonus of voice control, which is useful when you’re behind the wheel.

The same level of quality extends to the rear camera unit as well. This is a fairly standard barrel-type of design, with a rotating lens protruding at one end along with a short cable that needs to be press fitted to a longer one. This then feeds into the main camera unit via a small jack plug next to the power cable. Expect to spend some time pushing the associated cables behind trim panels, but there’s a small plastic tool included to help you do just that.

70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam: Performance

As always with setting up a dashcam for the first time, some of this is best done before you get the camera into position. Equally, however, it does need to be on the windshield so the angle can be previewed, via the app ideally, and then adjusted for an optimal view of the road. The same goes for the rear-facing camera, which in some ways I found even trickier to position due to the angle of the rear glass and an obtrusive parcel shelf. Expect to take some time for this setup process.

I haven’t tried the original incarnation of the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam, but the performance delivered by the new model seems like a step up, especially based on the specifications. The Sony Starvis sensor is beefier than before and there’s the 4K capability. After popping a microSD card in and running through the setup process, the camera was quick to get started. Registering an account was the most time-consuming part of the process because you get sent a code to your email, which then needs to be dialled in before a time limit runs out.

Nevertheless, once everything is up and running I found the cameras to be everything I expected from them. Front-facing 4K footage is just that, and of a very decent quality. Adjustments can be made to video settings if storage is an issue too, although 70mai does have a cloud option within the package if the microSD card isn’t going to be substantial enough, even though recordings are done in the usual loop fashion. The rear-facing footage is very acceptable too, with a good level of clarity that allows license plates to be read and recorded as and when needed.

I do like the way the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam can be controlled using voice commands, which works particularly well for the vlogging environment. Anyone who needs to tell a tale while they’re at the wheel and doesn’t want to be distracted by fiddling with controls will find this feature a real boon. On command, the lens simply rotates around the cabin and focuses on the driver, and it works to good effect, although there is a slight fish-eye effect as it pans around.

The 70mai app is okay and comes with all of the features and functions I needed. However, alongside the rest of the kit setup, it did feel a little less impressive than alternatives from the likes of Nextbase, and is perhaps the weakest link in the chain. Everything works as expected, but I think it could do with a little tightening up on the functionality front. It’s not always quite as intuitive as I’d like either and I quite often found myself fiddling inside menus when I shouldn't really have had to. It’s not a deal breaker, just mildly irritating in places.

Should you buy the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the 70mai 360 Omni 4K Dash Cam

• I installed the dash cam into a test car for an initial period of two weeks
• I used it for several journeys during both day and night
• I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings for comparison

70mai loaned me the Omni and supplied everything I needed to test it. This included a microSD memory card and a hard wire kit, which is an optional extra. I installed the camera in a test vehicle, which I was also reviewing at the time, which allowed me to try out all the features and functions. Testing also meant plumbing in all of the wiring around the car, which meant I was able to check that cable lengths were adequate even in large size vehicle.

I used the 70mai Omni over an initial period of two weeks, although I have since continued to use it in test vehicles being used for review purposes. However, due to the temporary nature of test loans I have been unable to permanently fix the dash cam into a vehicle using the hard wire kit. Nevertheless, the test period did allow me to explore all of the core features and functions of the 70mai Omni 4K, aside from the additional parking options that come as a result of the hard wire installation. The dash cam was also used in a variety of winter conditions, which included plenty of low light and after dark scenarios, along with lots of variation in temperature.

• First reviewed March 2025

Viofo A329 Dash Cam: one-minute review

I’m a big fan of any dash cam, no matter what the brand or its capabilities. They just make good sense, and offer some peace of mind when I’m behind the wheel. And, while I really liked recent arrival the Nextbase Piqo for its no-frills setup and operation, the Viofo A329 Dash Cam is an altogether more sophisticated offering.

The Viofo A329 Dash Cam is a step up from the Viofo A229 Pro Dash Cam, which preceded it, but it’s also up against some very stiff competition from the other best dash cams out there. Bear in mind, this is a premium model, so while it comes with lots of features and functions, the Viofo A329 Dash Cam carries a high-ish price tag too: in excess of $300 / £300, though exactly how much you'll pay depends on the bundle you choose.

However, the upside to that added expense is lots of great features. The Viofo A329 seen here also arrives as a two-channel offering, which means there’s a forward-facing camera and a smaller supplementary unit that captures video out of the back of your vehicle. As a result, there’s more work involved in getting it set up and running, with plenty of cable concealment to be done as part of the process.

Nevertheless, I'd say it’s well worth the effort, as the Viofo A329 Dash Cam offers 4K, 60 frames per second, Ultra HD footage at the front and 2K at the back, with each camera equipped with a Sony Starvis 2 image sensor and HDR recording. Add in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, voice control, and notifications, along with advanced parking mode capability plus support for external SSD storage, and the Viofo A329 Dash Cam soon starts looking like very good value for money.

It’s all about the performance with this premium dash cam. I found the Sony Starvis 2 IMX678 1/1.8-inch 8-megapixel image sensor and rear-facing Sony Starvis 2 IMX675 1/2.8-inch 5-megapixel image sensor more than able in most driving scenarios. Footage captured after dark was no less impressive than the footage taken during dull and grey days, with both cameras adept at picking out details such as license plates and road signs.

Thankfully, Viofo has taken into account the fact that 4K files soon bulk out microSD cards. Therefore, it’s possible to hook up an available SSD drive and store content directly to that, using the benefit of integrated Wi-Fi 6 technology. This is a practical solution for dealing with bulky chunks of data, and promises to be three times quicker, operating in the 5GHz band at speeds of up to 30Mbps. The specification also means that the A329 is optimized so that you can view and manage files quickly and easily via a phone too, using Viofo's own very decent app.

Viofo A329 Dash Cam: price and availability

The Viofo A329 Dash Cam is available now with a single front camera directly from Viofo being reduced by 18% to $329.99 at the time of writing, while the front and rear camera from Viofo is currently reduced by 15% to $399.99. It’s a similar story for the UK market with the former costing £329.95 (currently reduced to £299.95) and £399.95 (currently £359.95) for the latter two-camera bundle.

Viofo A329 Dash Cam: specs

Viofo A329 Dash Cam: Design

When it comes to design Viofo hasn’t changed too much compared to the Viofo A229 Dash Cam, with the A329 having a virtually identical front-facing camera unit. That’s no bad thing, as I liked the way the A229 was styled, with some neat design touches that make it a little more practical than its rivals. I particularly like the way the camera it can be attached to your windscreen, using the sticky patch on the mount or via static sheets for easier removal. The lens can then be moved into the perfect position using a click-based lever movement that adjusts it upwards and downwards.

There’s also the benefit of a sizable rear screen, which is crisp and clear, with operational buttons directly beneath that. This arrangement allowed me to access most if not all of the controls without the need for the supporting app. However, I also found that it’s possible to squeeze even more from the Viofo A329 Dash Cam by exploiting the software features, especially when it came to file management if I was hooked up using the SSD external drive option.

The unit itself is chunky, without being overly bulky, and feels nicely made, as the A229 did. Viofo includes everything you need to get up and running in the box, although if you’re very enthusiastic about your dash cam it might be worth considering the additional Viofo accessories for this model. These include a polarizing lens filter and a wireless Bluetooth remote control. In addition, there's an optional hardwire kit, which enables a more permanent installation than plugging the camera in via a 12V vehicle socket.

For the rear-facing camera, Viofo has kept the design lines simple and straightforward. The camera is easily mounted to the glass using another sticky pad, and can be angled into the optimal position using the same type of lens adjustment method.

Viofo A329 Dash Cam: Performance

The Viofo A329 Dash Cam does feel like a step up from the competition. Much of that is down to the fact that it records video in 4K at 60fps. Having this capability means it trounces many rivals, with many lesser models shooting 4K at 30fps, and upping the frame rate potentially results in smoother and crisper video. I found having the HDMI 4K video-out port made it very quick and easy to view even sizeable chunks of footage too.

Being sure that things like license plates are being captured legibly is reassuring, but this unit is good at helping to pick out things like badges, car logos and even facial features too. The beefier specification is also good for high-speed scenarios, thanks to the faster capabilities of the camera. Of course, there’s a slight trade-off in that this creates a larger bank of video files over time, but Viofo has thought of this by making the A329 Dash Cam fully compatible with external SSDs, so a drive can be used as a backup if my microSD card starts groaning under the weight of content.

Up front, the Sony Starvis 2 IMX678 1/1.8-inch 8-megapixel image sensor proved very impressive, with footage showing plenty of crisp detail. Even the rear camera, which has a smaller and lower-resolution Sony Starvis 2 IMX675 1/2.8-inch 5-megapixel sensor, was very good when it came to capturing things like license plates. Better still, after dark it proved quite good at capturing the faces of drivers sitting in the car behind, which is notable in itself.

All this 4K content soon stacks up mind, so Viofo has integrated Wi-Fi 6 technology for this model. This, it claims, is three times more potent at operating within the 5GHz band and offers up to 30MBps. Viofo reckons a one-minute 4K video can be downloaded in under 10 seconds and, during my time with the dash cam, I see no reason to disagree. Using this in tandem with an external SSD is a good way to go, allowing storage of lots of content for as long as it is needed.

Should you buy the Viofo A329 Dash Cam?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Viofo A329 Dash Cam

• I installed the dash cam into a test car for a set period of time
• I used it for several journeys during both day and night
• I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings for comparison

I reviewed the Viofo A329 Dash Cam during the course of several days, when it was faced with capturing footage in a range of weather conditions. The camera units were installed in a test vehicle and powered via the 12V socket, rather than being hardwired in. As always, it should be noted that this temporary route does occasionally limit some of the features and functionality, especially when it comes to parking surveillance.

• First reviewed November 2024

Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: two-minute review

Nextbase is a well known brand name in the world of dash cams, and one of its recent models, the Nextbase iQ smart dash cam, was a real step forward in terms of providing shooting potency along with a bevy of brilliant features. While it’s little wonder that that model currently tops our list of the best dash cams, another impressive recent addition to its lineup is the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam, which is akin to a ‘Lite’ edition of the Nextbase iQ bruiser.

This is a more basic offering, but that’s not to say it should be overlooked. In fact, anyone wanting a straightforward, non-nonsense dash cam that can capture great video but needs very little effort when it comes to the installation part should certainly consider it. The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is keenly priced, and while it doesn’t have a rear screen, which might put some off, the supporting Nextbase app more than makes up for that.

If anything, using the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam along with the app makes this compact model even more appealing. The other appealing aspect of this model is its dainty form factor. It’s much smaller and lighter than the Nextbase iQ, which means it's barely noticeable when mounted just in front of the rear-view mirror. However, despite its diminutive stature, the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam packs a reasonable punch when it comes to performance, with many of the same smart features and functions found on the Nextbase iQ squeezed into a more compact design.

The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is quick and easy to fit. It can be powered using the supplied 12V plug connector, while anyone wanting a more permanent fixture can buy an optional hardwire kit, which might require professional installation if meddling with car electrics isn’t your thing. Either way, all of the fitting kit is inside the box, including the 12V cable and connector, windscreen stickers, and a tool for pushing the cable behind trim panels.

While the 1K HD version of the Piqo is cheap, and delivers decent video that's slightly better than 1080p thanks to the 2560 x 1080 pixel resolution and 140-degree field of view, the model to go for is the 2K, which boasts 2560 x 1440 pixels and a 145-degree field of view. Price-conscious purchasers will find it more than suitable, even compared to the high-end muscle of the 4K Nextbase iQ. It’s an ideal compromise.

While the Nextbase iQ is an always-connected camera, the Piqo can be simply plugged into the 12V socket, but there are optional pro install cable and the connect cable kits available to unlock advanced features like the smart parking functionality to capture any car park mishaps. Additional smart features are present within the Piqo, but they’re not quite as potent as the iQ’s.

Nextbase has a subscription model which lets users add a customized overlays or ‘skins’ to video clips., with its ‘Protect’ plan feeling like reasonable value for £29.99 per year, or its $2.99 / £2.99 / AU$4.99 per month. There’s a free ‘Solo’ subscription too, which is leaner but still lets users add a single ‘skin’ to video clips. Standard footage still gets the benefit of journey data anyway, with the likes of date, time and speed all shown in a nice typeface at the foot of the video clip.

Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: price and availability

The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is as easy to buy as it is to install thanks to the worldwide presence of this brand. It can be purchased from the Nextbase website, and from leading online and bricks-and-mortar retailers. There are two versions to consider, depending on your needs. The 1K (HD 1080p) edition costs $129.99 / £99 / AU$199, while the beefier 2K (HD 1440p) model retails for $149.99 / £119 / $299. Even the more expensive model is less than half the price of the Nextbase iQ, which is available from $399.99 / £349.99 / AU$799.99.

Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: specs

Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: Design

The main appeal of the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is its compact form factor – it's much smaller than the chunky Nextbase iQ, and there are a few other rival dash cam models that are similarly svelte. The Piqo really stands out thanks to its small and lightweight construction, and it's a good-looking device too, with a smooth black plastic main case that comes with the mounting bracket already attached. The design and build quality feel every bit as good as other Nextbase models, but the lightness of the Piqo is striking, especially compared to the Nextbase iQ.

Inside the box are static sheets for the windscreen. These enable the Piqo to be fixed to the glass without the need for putting the very sticky 3M self-adhesive pad directly on the glass, which is handy if the camera needs to be moved to another vehicle from time to time. A slot for the microSD card is on one side of the case, and a connector socket for the power cable sits on the other. The camera lens sits on the front of the unit, while a circular LED on the back glows or pulses depending on what the Piqo is doing during setup and operation. Power is supplied simply by plugging the camera into a vehicle's 12V power socket, via the supplied cable and adaptor, although as mentioned an optional hardwire kit is available.

Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: Performance

The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is an ideal option for anyone who wants a dashcam that has the potential to be more helpful than just videoing the road ahead, but equally works perfectly well without unlocking its extra potential if it’s not needed. Considering the cheap and cheerful price point, the 2K model delivers very respectable footage, and worked particularly well during grim and grey autumnal days during testing in the UK. There are compromises, of course, especially when comparing footage to that from the 4K Nextbase iQ.

A variety of footage captured by the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam revealed that it's very capable, with the benefit of journey data being captured and displayed along the bottom of the footage for good measure. Audio seemed to be less impressive, with an occasional crackle present in test footage, although so far I've not been able to determine if this is something to do with the test car itself or the dash cam unit. It certainly shouldn't be enough to put anyone off buying the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam.

Capturing footage is simplicity itself, with a setup process that's pretty much plug-and-play, and which is completed by downloading the Nextbase app (for iOS or Android). The app is impressive, although interestingly, once plugged in the Piqo gets on with recording footage during journeys even if the app setup hasn’t been completed. Anyone who's not bothered with setting up accounts and entering login details might find this appealing, but added value comes from the Nextbase subscription options outlined above.

A subscription gives you access to extra features like SOS, Guardian Mode, Witness Mode and Smart Parking, albeit in Lite versions compared to those found on the Nextbase iQ. The free Solo subscription offers Smart Parking, Guardian Mode Lite, Witness Mode Lite, access to the Piqo Mobile app and voice control, plus 30 days of cloud storage. Optional kits to turn the Piqo into an always-on dash cam are available, and adding the Protect subscription gets you 180 days of cloud storage and emergency SOS functionality, along with an extra two years warranty.

The Nextbase iQ offers an example of how handy the extra features can be, but the reality is that many budget-conscious dash-cam buyers are looking for a simple way to capture the road ahead, and for such users this is a dash cam that's simple to set up and offers great value for money. In fact, that’s really the essence of the Piqo's appeal: it’s no-nonsense, and all the better for it.

Should you buy the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam

• I installed the dash cam into a test car for a set period of time
• I used it for several journeys during both day and night
• I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings for comparison

I lived with the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam for a week after installing it in a vehicle I was also testing. Following set up and installation, I then powered up the dash cam any time I did a journey, which meant it was used during daylight hours and after dark too. I tested the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam using the 12V plug in power option, rather than the more permanent hard wiring route. However, aside from not having the always on power functionality, I got to explore all of the available features of the 'Free' subscription option.

• First reviewed November 2024

70mai Dash Cam A510: two-minute review

Choosing a dashcam can be quite labor-intensive if you’re not sure what you’re after, due in part to a bewildering array of options. What I like about this, the 70mai Dash Cam A510, is I know exactly what I’m getting. It’s a twin-camera bundle, which comes competitively priced while still offering lots of performance from both lenses.

Crucially, there’s quality video to be had, with the front camera capturing 2.7K 1944p footage thanks to a Sony Starvis 2 sensor while being able to shoot quite widely via a very decent 140-degree field of view. Meanwhile, the smaller rearward facing unit can capture 1080p video and features a 130-degree field of view.

What’s more, these are versatile units because they’ve got an easily rotated lens, with the rear camera going a full 360-degree for cockpit recording if it is needed. Add on built-in GPS and I’ve got a camera combination that can also capture all-important on-the-go data such as location, speed, and the more obvious date and time information.

The 70mai Dash Cam A510 is easy to install and setup, while the box contains everything need to get started with my set also including a 64GB microSD memory card. Bluetooth connectivity means that video content can be viewed on a smartphone, with an impressive app making that task easier. I’m also very pleased that this model features a built-in LCD screen, which adds an extra touch of in-car convenience.

70mai Dash Cam A510: Design

I’ve been trying the 70mai Dash Cam A510 Set, which means that inside the box there’s the front-facing camera as well as a smaller variant that points out the back of the car. In fact, this bundle comes with all I needed to get started, which is always a bonus. It’s worth noting though that for anyone not wanting to power the setup via a 12V socket, an additional hardwire kit is required. This is also essential to get all the parking surveillance features activated.

The main camera features a 2-inch LCD display, with four pressable buttons immediately beneath for working your way through all of the features and functions. A chunky manual helps with the initial setup, and there’s a smaller one that covers the rear-facing camera. On the side of the main camera are three ports, for the power and rear camera cables, plus one for the microSD card. A slimline button on the bottom of the unit can be used for emergency video capture.

I think the overall build quality of this model feels as good as any dashcam I’ve tried. Better still, it’s easy to plumb everything in and get it up and running. The box contains static sheets too, which provides an easy way to fix both cameras to the screens of vehicles, without the need to stick the very adhesive pad directly to the glass. This makes sense for anyone wanting to move the cameras between vehicles. There’s also a tool for pushing cables behind trim elements to make the camera setup as unobtrusive as possible.

I rather like the 12V plug for this model too, which has a spare USB port next to the power cable inlet, meaning it’s possible to charge other things on the go. The cables are of a generous length, so this bundle should work with most vehicles. Usefully, 70mai has designed the rear camera with a 360-degree lens, meaning you can turn it to point into the cockpit of the car for surveillance duties when needed. The front lens is not as flexible but rotates enough so that it’s easy to tweak depending on the angle of the windshield.

70mai Dash Cam A510: Performance

I like having the benefit of a front and rear camera in the car, which is one of the 70mai Dash Cam A510’s main strengths. The dual recording capability gives a live view out the front and out the back, all on the same screen, which is handy, but it’s not really a big enough to pick out any details.

Therefore, while the screen on the back of the main camera is decent enough, reviewing of any recorded content was best done on either my phone, via the impressive 70mai app, or my laptop. The specification means that there’s a good level of data included on all the footage, with date, time, speed and coordinates all being displayed along the foot of the video content in easy-to-read white lettering.

I do think the 70mai Dash Cam A510 struggles a little bit when it’s faced with sudden changes in lighting conditions. The transition from darker, cloudy skies to sudden blocks of clear blue sky and sunshine sees the lens struggling to correct itself. This isn’t bad enough to put me off the 70mai Dash Cam A510 though as the lens soon gets back up to speed and carries on providing otherwise consistent results.

Meanwhile, the 70mai Dash Cam A510 coped with low-light and after-dark conditions admirably. 70mai says it has incorporated its so-called Night Owl Vision algorithm into this model and I’m certainly impressed by the way it copes with nighttime lighting, especially under streetlights. These can often prove problematic with dashcams, but the 70mai Dash Cam A510 handles this scenario just fine.

Previewing footage on my laptop, I think the 70mai Dash Cam A510 also captures all those vital details needed in case of an incident, so license plates and road signs are all clearly displayed. The color balance and general quality are very good too, with nothing outside of the lens glare issues mentioned above to be worried about. It’s a solid performer, that’s for sure.

Should you buy the 70mai Dash Cam A510 dash cam?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the 70mai Dash Cam A510 dash cam

• I installed the dash cam into my own car
• I used it for several journeys during both day and night
• I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings for appraisal

I spent time with the 70mai Dash Cam A510 installed in an SUV, which meant I had plenty of screen space in order to get it installed. However, the design is also sufficiently compact enough to work in vehicles with less glass area to play with. 

I tried the  dashcam bundle over a period of time, across a range of driving scenarios, and in all sorts of weather conditions. Once installed, I found it to be very low-maintenance and enjoyed having the benefit of a chime on startup, just to know that it was functioning as expected.

• First reviewed July 2024