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How to choose a car DVR: expert advice on choosing the right model for your car

Untrained buyer is quite difficult to navigate in a large number of different DVR models, offered by stores.

To make a successful purchase and spend money wisely, it is necessary to study the information about these devices, decide on the functions you need exactly in this gadget.

How to choose a black box

Manufacturers produce DVR models with different characteristics and capabilities, in different price segments.

Quite a large niche in the production of quality devices at an average price occupy companies from China and South Korea.

When buying such gadgets there is no need to overpay for the brand, but the quality of assembly and components are inferior to the flagships.

When choosing a device you should take into account the main parameters:

  • the quality of video recording,
  • information storage,
  • design and method of attachment,
  • operation from the onboard network and battery,
  • number of cameras,
  • presence or absence of additional functions.

2

Type of DVR

Video recorders for the car according to their design features can be divided into:

  • Monoblocks. In these devices, the camera and the display are combined into a single unit. They are quite reliable and functional, but the large size of the unit may obstruct the view and tempt a thief
  • DVR with flip-down display. The device is compact and less visible, it can be folded up if there is no need for it at the moment.
  • Rearview mirror video recorder. Combine the functions of rear-view mirror And recording what is happening.

In terms of functionality are divided into:

  • Simple .. There is only one camera, usually recording only what is happening in front of the car, have no sensors. The most inexpensive kind of DVRs.
  • Multifunctional .. Usually, there are several cameras, additional sensors, reacting to shocks, sudden braking and other events. They can determine the speed of movement, the location of the car, record what is happening around the perimeter of the car.
  • Professional. They have several cameras, microphones, additional memory cards, record to external hard drives. They are also distinguished by the high quality of night and daytime shooting.

1

Video resolution

The main parameter to pay attention to when choosing a device is the screen resolution.

High resolution (2304x1294) allows you to "see" license plates from up to 15 meters away and also makes the image clearer when taking night recordings.

Normally Full HD (1920x1080) and Super Full HD (2304x1296) resolutions are used. HD resolution (1280x720) gets an image of not very good quality, especially in low light.

Lens Angle of View

The angle of view of the camera lens at 90 degrees allows you to capture what is just in front of the car.

A camera with a viewing angle of 120 degrees or more captures what is in the other lanes of the road, on curbs and sidewalks.

Professional DVRs may have cameras with an all-round view. Please note that a viewing angle of more than 120° may cause frame distortion at the edges.

Number of cameras

The number of DVR cameras installed in different parts of the car determines the completeness of the overview of the surrounding situation. The characteristics of each camera must be taken into account.

The camera installed on the rear window of the car allows you to increase the field of view, as well as help when reversing and when parking.

When you turn on the parking mode, the image from the rear camera on the display becomes a priority and avoids errors and hit-and-runs. The disadvantage can be considered as additional wires in the cabin.

The presence of additional cameras leads to an increase in the price of the device and the complexity of the installation.

2

The duration of battery life

The video recorder is most often connected to the onboard network of the car through the cigarette lighter.

The use of a rechargeable battery makes it possible to record video with the engine off.

Usually the battery capacity is small, 150 to 600 mAh, and allows you to record from 10 minutes to 1 hour. This time may be enough in case of an accident to have time to make a video recording. Most often, the battery-operated standalone mode is activated if the car's electrical system was damaged during the accident.

If the engine is turned off during parking, if there is a motion sensor, the video recorder turns on from the battery when it detects motion near the car in the device's field of view.

Most often, lithium-ion (Li-Ion) or lithium-polymer (Li-Pol) batteries are used for the autonomous work of the device.

Shock sensor

Shock sensor (G-sensor) controls the position of the car in three planes and in case of sharp changes of parameters creates a file which is protected from erasure.

It is better to set such sensor to min sensitivity, because otherwise it will react including to the passage of the "lying policeman", and to hit a pit.

3

Presence of an antidradar

Availability of anti-radar in DVRs is an additional option, added by the manufacturers. For this purpose, it is necessary to enter information about the combined database of traffic cameras and radars of the traffic police into the memory of the device. The actual database is downloaded to the SD-card.

When the data recorder receives GPS data, it is compared with the database of cameras, and the driver receives information about the need to reduce speed in advance..

The database needs to be timely updated to get the latest information, but still such devices are not absolutely reliable.

DVRS can be combined with radar detectors In one case. This saves space in the cabin and makes the device a universal driver's assistant.

Combo-devices are of two types depending on the antenna used in the antidradar:

  • Horn antenna. Devices with this antenna have an elongated shape and may look somewhat bulky.
  • Patch antenna (strip antenna) .. This is a printed circuit board containing radiating elements. Such an antenna is placed vertically in a housing, so the device has a larger screen than a conventional one.

Combined devices with more reliability fix radar complexes, but do not protect 100% from false alarms, especially when driving in a big city, where a lot of additional interference.

Mounting method

There are three types of mounting for the device installation in the car:

  • Double sided adhesive tape (3M). This mount holds firmly at all temperatures, you can install it anywhere, not just on the glass. 3M tape is not removable, you can remove the device itself from the bracket if necessary. Dismantling such a mount is quite difficult.
  • Vacuum suction cup. Easy to install on glass anywhere and easy to remove. But may have trouble attaching if the temperature changes.
  • Magnet. In this case, the bracket is attached to the surface with 3M tape, the device is attached to the bracket with a neodymium magnet.

4

Video recorder memory

The data recording in the video-recording devices is made to an external memory card, which is to be bought separately.

Some devices may have a small built-in memory, which doubles some of the fragments or continues to record if the memory card is completely full. The capacity of the memory card is usually 32 - 64 GB, which allows you to place a large number of video files on it.

VCRs use Secure Digital Memory Cards (SD and microSD) as standard, which are also compatible with smartphones.

Some models have two built-in memory card slots for quick copying of the recording in case you need to hand over an SD card to the traffic police inspector.

There are also models with two active memory cards, in which when one card is full, the recording automatically goes to the second card.

If the DVR supports WI-FI, it is possible to use cloud storage to save the recordings. The storage is provided by the manufacturer of the device.

Night shooting

The quality of recording in the dark depends on the design and software features of the device.

In some models, manufacturers have installed infrared illumination, giving the opportunity to shoot in complete darkness. The image in this case is monochrome and not too clear.

Changing the exposure for night shooting in automatic or manual mode improves the quality of the picture.

5

Display .

There are models of DVRs that do not have a display. But devices with a screen are much more convenient to use. Such a device is easier to set up - the menu is displayed on the screen, you can immediately see the field of view of the camera when you install it. The display allows you to immediately resolve many controversial issues on the accident by viewing the video at the scene.

LCD displays are usually used in DVRs..

The screen can be combined in a single unit with the DVR, can be detachable or have a flip and swivel device.

Facilitates management of the gadget touch screen, the diagonal of such a screen is usually slightly larger.

Processor

The most important part of the device is the processor, on which the work of the device completely depends. Processors used in DVRs have a simpler set of commands, smaller size and power consumption than in computers. They are called System on a Chip (SoC).

Video recorders mainly use single-core processors, the performance indicator of which is a clock frequency - the number of operations (clock cycles) performed in one second..

To perform the necessary functions the clock frequency of 400-700 MHz and higher is used.

The architecture on which the processor is built is the most important factor.

Designed and used by 4 families:

  • ARM7,
  • ARM9,
  • ARM11
  • Cortex.

The best known manufacturers of chipsets for video recorders include:

  • Ambarella . - market leader SoC. The American company has released 5 generations of processors for DVRs since 2007.
  • Novatek -A chipset manufacturer, founded in 1997 in Taiwan.
  • Allwinner Technology - Company working since 2007 in Zhuhai, People's Republic of China.
  • Texas Instrument - Texas Instrument is an American company, founded in 1954. Processors of this company are often used in video recorders, produced in South Korea.

At the same time, companies that are rapidly gaining in popularity occupy a prominent position in the market:

  • Core Logic
  • Syntec Semiconductor
  • SQ Technology
  • iCATCH
  • HiSilicon Technology

5

Useful Features

Additional useful functions which can be supported in devices:

  • GPS module. Captures on video speed and coordinates. Allows you to view the route on Google Maps in case you need to confirm your location. This data is required for traffic accidents according to the euro-protocol.
  • Cyclic videorecording.. The DVR records separate fragments of short duration (5/10/15 min.) and overwrites the oldest video clips when the memory card is full. In this case, the deletion-protected fragments remain unchanged.
  • Communication outputs (connectors). They are used to transfer the information from the video-recording device to other devices (computer, TV). USB, miniUSB are supported. Newer digital video output HDMI, miniHDMI.
  • Motion detection. The device will automatically turn on when motion is detected near the car.
  • Time and date recording. On the filmed video recorded the date and time of the shooting, which can help in resolving disputes with the traffic inspector or other participants in the movement.
  • Recording an alarm event. Saving video in the folder protected from accidental deletion or overwriting.
  • Autostart recording. The DVR automatically turns on and starts recording when you start the engine.
  • Voice Control. Allows you to control the gadget without distracting yourself while driving.

Top 5 best DVRs by price/quality

In the top - 5 best DVRs with an optimal price to quality ratio included devices that have received positive reviews from experts and are in demand among buyers, In order to choose a gadget, not overloaded with not the most necessary features that significantly increase the price, but adequately solving the tasks, use our rating.

Xiaomi 70mai Dash Cam Pro Midrive D02

 

1

A well-known Chinese manufacturer of electronic products Xiaomi released DVR at an affordable price and good quality.

The 5 MPix camera has a viewing angle of 140°, allowing you to view the neighboring lanes of traffic and the side of the road. The camera is equipped with a swivel mechanism that allows you to adjust the available viewing area.

Resolution 2592x1944 camera makes shooting clear and saturated. Using technologies WDR and "Anti-fog" allows you to get bright and contrast images even in poor visibility.

Cyclic recording allows you to easily find the necessary fragment, saving space on the memory card.

Built-in shock sensor will follow the car during the parking, being in the sleep mode and automatically turning on in a critical situation.

When the engine is turned on, the recorder will display a message about the event.

Battery discharge protection will extend the life of the battery.

You can connect an additional memory card.

Voice control makes it much easier to work with the device without distracting the driver from driving.

Radar-detector will warn about the installed cameras. GPS-module is not included in the package, you can connect it additionally.

Connecting via Wi-Fi allows you to view the captured video, download it to your smartphone without wasting traffic.

Technical characteristics:

  • Number of cameras - 1;
  • HiSilicon Hi 3556V100 processor
  • 2592x1944 resolution;
  • memory card 64 GB;
  • battery - 500 mAh;
  • 2-inch display;
  • 140° viewing angle ;
  • shock sensor; parking control;
  • night shooting.

Pros of

  • Good quality shooting;
  • wide viewing angle;
  • anti-fog, ADAS,
  • shock sensor, parking control in sleep mode.

Minuses

  • GPS is not included, must purchase separately.

Playme P600SG.

 

2

Video recorder combined with radar and GPS-module. Resolution2304x1296 camera allows you to get a good quality image. Viewing angle of 135 degrees allows you to record what is happening on the neighboring lanes.

2.3-inch display shows type of camera or speed camera, speed limit, and other relevant information..

Voice assistant alerts you in advance if a speed camera is approaching. SAFP filtration system minimizes false alarms of the radar detector. The database of cameras needs to be timely updated.

Built-in GPS module fixes the route and marks the date, time and speed of the car on the video.

With the specially installed application you can view information on Yandex maps.

Built-in memory 128 MB, you can connect an additional memory card up to 64 GB.

The device is powered from the onboard network and a 500 mAh battery.

Specifications:

  • Number of cameras 1;
  • AIT8328Q processor
  • 2304x1296 resolution;
  • Built-in memory of 128 MB, a memory card up to 64 GB;
  • viewing angle of 135 °;
  • 500 mAh battery;
  • 2.3 inch display;
  • shock sensor, motion detector, GPS.

Advantages

  • Combined model DVR+anti-radar+GPS;
  • SAFP filtration system;
  • Time, date, speed recording;
  • voice assistant;
  • USB connection to the computer.

Disadvantages

  • No WI-Fi connection.

Carcam F3

 

3

Video recorder Carcum F3 supports recording from two cameras, as well as parking mode.. The main camera is made in the design of a digital camera. The resolution is 1920x1080, the video recording is cyclic, without tearing.

View angle of 140°, produces video recording of all adjacent traffic lanes as well as sidewalks or curbs. There is an image stabilizer, photo mode, built-in backlight.

The second camera has a viewing angle of 100 degrees, 480 pixels.. Can be installed on the rear window or in the area of the license plate, rotates around the axis.

Installation of wiring in the cabin can be hidden, the cable length is sufficient for this. To simplify the process of parking with the second camera will need to connect an additional power line to the reversing light. Then the transfer to the rear camera will be made automatically.

Parking lines are displayed during parking..

Two cameras are shown on the 3" color display. You can select the current priority camera by pushing a button.

Specifications:

  • number of cameras - 2 ;
  • JL5601 processor;
  • 1920x1080 resolution;
  • Memory card up to 32 GB;
  • Viewing angle of the main camera 140 °; additional camera 100 °;
  • 200 mAh battery;
  • shock sensor;
  • motion detector;
  • Time and date record.

Pros of

  • parking mode;
  • Two cameras create a good field of view;
  • USB connection to the computer.
  • low price;

Disadvantages .

  • Low battery capacity.
  • No additional functions,

Inspector Barracuda

 

9

DVR combo made in South Korea Inspector Barracuda equipped with GLONASS and GPS modules, anti-radar.

Classical design body is made of matte black plastic. The upper part has a visor, which protects from the glare and shine of the screen.

Fastening is done by vacuum suction cup. The camera can be rotated 360 degrees around the axis, as well as change the angle.

Resolution 1920x1080 makes the picture bright and detailed, the viewing angle of 135 degrees allows distortion-free shooting the road and sidewalks.

Radar detector can work in several modes. Warnings about the need to slow down, about the presence of surveillance cameras are made in advance, the number of false positives is minimal.

Anti-radar detects including portable complexes.

The recording mode is cyclic, the date and time are fixed, as well as the car speed.

The device is powered from the onboard network and 520 mAh battery, battery life up to 20 minutes.

The memory card up to 256 GB can be formatted for data storage.

Specifications:

  • Number of cameras - 1;
  • iCatch SPCA6350M processor
  • 1920x1080 resolution;
  • Memory card up to 256GB;
  • view angle of 135°;
  • screen - 2.4 inches;
  • 520 mAh battery;
  • shock sensor;
  • anti-radar; GPS; GLONASS.

Pros of

  • high sensitivity of the anti-radar;
  • extensive, intuitive menu;
  • high-capacity battery;
  • 360-degree rotation of the camera;
  • parking control, curb control.

Cons

  • a lot of settings.

SHO-ME A12-GPS/GLONAS

 

9

The SHO-ME A12-GPS/GLONASS video recorder is equipped with anti-radar, GPS and GLONASS modules, which makes it a universal driver's assistant, informing about both stationary cameras and mobile and low-power radars.

Super Full 2304x1296 video resolution and 140 degree viewing angle make the image clear and detailed, without distortion, glare and flare.

Quickly removable and reliable suction cup mount, camera rotation in the vertical and horizontal planes increases the mobility of the device and allows you to capture traffic situations in different angles.

Battery capacity of 400 mAh increases the autonomous work of the device.

Ambrella A12 processor works with high speed without stuttering or failure.

Recording with sound is done in files up to 5 minutes, without tearing in MP4 format.

Wi-Fi module allows you to update databases/firmware, as well as view, copy or delete videos through the mobile app.

Technical specifications:

  • Number of cameras - 1;
  • Ambarella A12 processor
  • 2304x1296 video resolution;
  • memory card up to 128 GB;
  • view angle 140°;
  • 2.7 inch screen;,
  • 400 mAh battery
  • shock sensor, motion sensor

Pros

  • Wi-Fi module;
  • USB support;
  • user-friendly interface;
  • Automatic recording start at engine start;

Cons

  • no function to stop recording.

Conclusion

The use of DVRs has become a necessity when driving a car. Video recording of the event allows you to solve many controversial issues that arise in traffic accidents, including those that happened to other road users.

The use of combined devices (for example, from the company Mio or Neoline) will help you correctly respect the speed limit when driving in town and on the highway, and thus avoid fines and other penalties.

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