Car cameras, also known as dash cams, have become indispensable tools for drivers seeking to enhance their road safety and security. Among the myriad of options available, the Viofo A229 Pro stands out as a top contender, offering an impressive array of features and exceptional performance. This review delves into why the Viofo A229 Pro is considered by many to be the Best Car Camera on the market today.
The forward-facing, the rear, and the interior cameras of the Viofo A229 Pro 3-channel version, our pick for the best dash cam.
The Viofo A229 Pro distinguishes itself with its superior video recording capabilities, ensuring crystal-clear footage in various lighting conditions. Equipped with a cutting-edge Sony Starvis 2 (IMX678) image sensor, this car camera captures low-noise images in dimly lit environments and vibrant, high-contrast images when exposed to bright sunlight. The front camera boasts 4K resolution, a significant upgrade from older 1080p models, resulting in videos rich in detail. This enhanced clarity allows for easy identification of crucial elements like license plates, even from a distance or during nighttime recording, a critical aspect for any best car camera.
Unmatched Video Quality for Day and Night
The video quality of the Viofo A229 Pro is truly exceptional, rivaling and often surpassing other dash cams in its class. Its advanced sensor technology ensures that whether it’s bright daylight or low-light conditions, the footage remains sharp, detailed, and usable. While it may not reach the pinnacle of action cameras or high-end smartphone cameras, for a dedicated car camera, the A229 Pro delivers top-tier performance. In fact, in comparative tests, only the 70mai series came close to matching its video quality.
Robust Performance in Extreme Temperatures
A common concern with electronic devices in vehicles is their susceptibility to temperature fluctuations. Traditional dash cams often utilize lithium-ion batteries which can be unreliable in extreme heat or cold. Overheating can lead to temporary shutdowns, and in rare cases, battery expansion or even explosion. The Viofo A229 Pro smartly addresses this issue by employing a supercapacitor instead of a battery. This supercapacitor provides sufficient power to save the current video clip and safely shut down the camera when the car is turned off. More importantly, it allows the car camera to operate reliably in a wide temperature range, from a frigid -4°F to a scorching 149°F (-20°C to 65°C), ensuring consistent performance regardless of the climate.
User-Friendly Mobile Application
Ease of use is a crucial factor in the overall experience of a car camera. The Viofo A229 Pro shines in this aspect with its intuitive mobile application. By activating the camera’s Wi-Fi and connecting via a smartphone, users can seamlessly access the Viofo app (available for both iOS and Android). The app facilitates easy viewing and downloading of recorded videos. The integrated GPS receiver adds further value by displaying the recording location on a map during playback. Furthermore, the app offers comprehensive settings adjustments, including camera exposure and video quality, providing users with granular control over their device.
Versatile Multi-Channel Options
Understanding that different drivers have varying needs, the Viofo A229 Pro is offered in multiple configurations. The base model features a single forward-facing 4K camera. For broader coverage, the 2-channel version includes an additional 1440p rear camera, a recommended setup for most drivers. For comprehensive surveillance, the 3-channel version, the one tested and highly praised, incorporates an interior camera. This interior camera utilizes infrared recording and is supplemented by four IR lights, invisible to the naked eye, ensuring clear video capture inside the car even in complete darkness. This range of options makes the A229 Pro a truly versatile best car camera for various requirements.
The Viofo A229 Pro’s large screen and multiple buttons make it easy to check footage and settings. Photo: Michael Hession
The forward-facing, the rear, and the interior cameras of the Viofo A229 Pro 3-channel version, our pick for the best dash cam.
Alt Text: Close up of the Viofo A229 Pro car camera showcasing its user interface with a large screen and physical buttons for easy navigation and settings adjustment.
Fast Video Download and Easy Installation
Efficient video retrieval is essential, especially when needing to access footage quickly. The Viofo A229 Pro supports 5 GHz Wi-Fi, enabling rapid download speeds to compatible smartphones. Alternatively, users can access files by removing the microSD card and using a card reader on a computer. Some modern phones might even support direct download via USB-C cable, although this functionality may vary. Installation is also straightforward. The camera comes with a sticky pad mount for secure windshield attachment. A plastic lever tool is included for easy removal and readjustment of the mount, or for detaching the camera while leaving the mount in place. Power is supplied via USB-C, and a long cable with a 12V adapter is included. Vehicles with a 2-amp or higher USB port can also power the camera directly.
Parking Mode and Hardwire Kit Availability
For continuous protection, even when the vehicle is parked, the Viofo A229 Pro offers a parking mode feature. However, as most cars cut power to their 12V and USB ports when off, utilizing parking mode requires hardwiring the camera to the car’s fuse box. Viofo provides several hardwire kits, with the specific kit needed depending on the vehicle model. Detailed instructions on setting up a dash cam, including hardwiring, are readily available.
Included and Optional Accessories
The Viofo A229 Pro package includes several useful accessories. The 12V adapter features an extra USB port for charging other devices. A circular polarizing lens (CPL) is also included, which is a valuable addition often sold separately with other cameras. The CPL lens reduces dashboard glare in certain lighting conditions and enhances video contrast, with minimal impact on low-light performance. A Bluetooth remote control is available as an optional accessory, allowing users to instantly save important video clips with a single click.
Warranty and Minor Drawbacks
The Viofo A229 Pro comes with a standard one-year warranty, extendable to 18 months upon product registration with Viofo. While the Viofo A229 Pro excels in many areas, there are a few minor drawbacks. It does not include a microSD card, which must be purchased separately. For optimal performance with 4K recording, Viofo recommends a Class-10 or UHS-I rated card or their own UHS-III offering. A large capacity card is advisable to maximize recording time before loop recording overwrites older footage. Its vertical design, while generally compact, might be noticeable in vehicles with smaller windshields. The rear camera, though high-resolution, may produce dimmer images with heavily tinted windows, a common issue with rear dash cams. Lastly, the initial setup may reveal always-on LEDs, which can be easily turned off via the app.
Conclusion: The Top Choice for Car Safety
Despite these minor points, the Viofo A229 Pro overwhelmingly proves itself as the best car camera for drivers prioritizing superior video quality, reliability, and a comprehensive feature set. From its exceptional day and night recording to its robust temperature resistance and user-friendly app, the A229 Pro offers unparalleled value and performance for enhancing your road safety and providing peace of mind. For anyone serious about equipping their vehicle with the best car camera technology, the Viofo A229 Pro is an investment worth making.
