Re: The Dashcam / Car Video Recorder (DVR) Thread Quote:
Originally Posted by lord_almighty My targeted budget was upto 8-10K, but am inclined to increase it to 15k, if necessary. Reading through the forum as well as different articles, have figured following points on which would welcome inputs from experts and peers here.
1. Prefer Sony Stravis 2 sensor (either IMX675, 678, 585) over Stavis 1 (Not considering cams based on other image sensors). Does it really make as big a difference in night-time and varying light scenarios as the sony articles and videos make it to be? |
Yes, there is a lot of difference especially when you consider price. Viofo is no cheap these days. If you're going for Viofo don't get one which is without HDR. You'll repent after shelling out so much.
See this video. This is of A229 Duo, which is without HDR. Quote:
2. Need to hardwire the Dash cam and activate parking monitor. Viofo talks about additional feature of motion sensor which records pre event too. Viofo product comparison also claims that in other brands recording starts a few seconds. Is that a significant factor?
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True. It is good feature provided your car's battery is in top shape and you drive every single day to keep it at the optimum levels. Why? It is because this hardwiring kit cuts off the power when battery reaches at 12V. Usually it is around 14.4V and you need atleast 12V to start your car comfortably.
If your running is low or battery is not at optimal levels, it shuts off to prevent discharge. So won't be of much use then. Quote:
3. Prefer one with Supercapacitor. Supercapacitor has advantage of slightly more acceptable temperature range, lesser chance of fire and longer lifetime compared to Li batteries. However, Supercapacitors have lower charge holding capacity compared to battery. As I am planning to hardwire, I guess it would not be a significant factor?
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Super capacitors do not hold any charge. The moment you shut off your car, camera switches to parking mode. I'd recommend avoiding battery stuff especially in Northern India where temperatures are around 45º in summers. Quote:
4. Needless to say, 5GHz wifi is a must have.
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You'll only require this to transfer files and to set it up. Very useful feature though. It makes screen redundant.
You'll find this in any dashcam you buy. Available in most of the dashcams these days. Quote:
7. I had a rear view camera installed many years ago which had a display connected over the IVRM. When i was checking fuse wiring for a DIY installation possibility, was surprised to see it was it wasn't connected to fuse box at all. Any idea how else can it powered (and be responsive when car is put in reverse gear)? Or is it something only a mechanic would be able to tell after inspection? Will it affect my DIY aspirations. Using the existing cam as reverse cam is a consideration, though not sure of its compatibility.
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Usually they tap power from other sources, whichever they find nearest to the accessory. Quote:
Basis these, following were in consideration set Viofo 139Pro - Complete Package. Except that its way out of budget.
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Would be the best. Quote: Viofo 129 Plus Duo - Liked this one as I can get front cam now and install rear later if I have to. But, image sensor here is Stravis and not Stravis 2. And slightly over of Budget.
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Don't, it doesn't have HDR. Quote: Viofo A119 Mini 2 - Ticks all boxes. Has motion Sensor parking mode. But, is single channel. Would not accommodate rear cam.
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Would be great too. Quote: DDPAI Z50 - Stravis instead of Stravis 2. Feature-wise, like Viofo A129 Plus but without motion parking sensor. And 3-4k Cheaper. DDPAI Mini 5 - Same as Above minus display and 2k cheaper in price. 70mai A810 Dual - All ok except it has a basic Parking mode and has battery instead of Supercapacitor. And slightly over the budget. 70mai A800S - Stravis instead of Stravis 2, and same problems as A810. Almost within budget.
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Not familiar with other brands. Quote:
Among these I am more inclined towards Viofo A119 Mini2. Followed by either 70mai 810 or Viofo A129 Plus (both over the budget). DDPAI did not seem to have any model with Stravis 2 sensor.
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A119 Mini 2 is good too. Ticks most of your boxes. Quote:
What would be the Jury's recommendation? Suggestion based on Real-life experience with these models and their video quality? Is there any other model/ brand I am missing. Would welcome inputs if my evaluation is missing some important factors altogether. Any model within 10k which gives equally good performance and saves some money.
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Don't think you'll find anything in 10k range anymore from Viofo these days. Alas, gone are the Aliexpress days. ![Sad Face](https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/images/smilies/sadface.png)
If you can wait, then Viofo would be releasing 2 new models soon. Don't know about the pricing yet.
Last edited by batish : 31st July 2023 at 09:42.
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