Car Dash Cameras have become an essential accessory for drivers worldwide. They provide crucial video evidence in case of accidents, deter theft and vandalism, and even capture memorable road trip moments. Choosing the right dash cam can be overwhelming, but the Viofo A229 Pro stands out as a top contender, offering a blend of high-end features and reliable performance. After extensive testing and real-world use, we delve into why the Viofo A229 Pro might just be the best car dash camera you can buy right now.
Unmatched Video Quality – Day and Night
The primary function of any car dash camera is to record clear and detailed video footage. The Viofo A229 Pro excels in this area, boasting a front camera that records in stunning 4K resolution. This level of clarity is significantly superior to older 1080p dash cams, making it easier to discern crucial details like license plates, even at a distance or during nighttime recording.
Equipped with a state-of-the-art Sony Starvis 2 (IMX678) image sensor, this car dash camera captures low-noise images in low-light conditions and vibrant, high-contrast footage in bright sunlight. While it might not match the absolute pinnacle of action cameras or high-end smartphone cameras in video quality, it comes incredibly close, outperforming most other dash cams on the market, with only the 70mai series offering comparable performance.
Reliable Performance in Extreme Weather
One common concern with electronic devices in cars is their ability to withstand temperature fluctuations. Many dash cams use lithium-ion batteries, which can be susceptible to heat and cold, potentially leading to malfunction or, in rare cases, safety hazards.
The Viofo A229 Pro smartly avoids this issue by utilizing a supercapacitor instead of a traditional battery. This supercapacitor provides enough power to safely save recordings and shut down the camera when the car is turned off. More importantly, it allows the camera to operate reliably in a wide temperature range, from a frigid -4°F to a scorching 149°F (-20°C to 65°C). This makes the A229 Pro a dependable car dash camera, regardless of your climate.
User-Friendly App and Features
A great car dash camera is not just about recording quality; it’s also about ease of use. The Viofo A229 Pro shines with its intuitive mobile app (available for both iOS and Android). Once connected via Wi-Fi, the app allows you to effortlessly view and download videos directly to your smartphone. The integrated GPS receiver adds another layer of information, displaying the recording location on a map during playback.
Beyond basic viewing, the app provides access to a comprehensive settings menu. Users can adjust camera exposure, video quality, and customize various recording parameters to fine-tune the dash cam to their specific needs and preferences.
Versatile Camera Options for Every Need
Understanding that drivers have diverse requirements, Viofo offers the A229 Pro in multiple configurations. The base model features a single front-facing 4K camera, ideal for straightforward front recording. For broader coverage, the 2-channel version adds a rear 1440p camera, capturing events behind your vehicle. The 3-channel version, which we tested, goes even further by including an interior camera. This interior camera utilizes infrared night vision, enhanced by discreet IR lights, to record clear footage of the cabin even in complete darkness. This is particularly useful for rideshare drivers or those wanting comprehensive in-car monitoring.
Fast and Convenient Data Transfer
Retrieving video footage quickly is crucial, especially after an incident. The Viofo A229 Pro offers multiple options for data transfer. It supports 5 GHz Wi-Fi, enabling fast download speeds to compatible smartphones. Alternatively, users can remove the microSD card and use a card reader for computer transfer. For even quicker access, some modern smartphones may support direct download via a USB-C cable, although compatibility can vary.
Simple Installation Process
Setting up a car dash camera should be hassle-free, and the Viofo A229 Pro makes installation straightforward. The camera comes with a sticky pad mount that securely adheres to your windshield. A plastic lever tool is included to aid in removing the mount if adjustments are needed, or to detach the camera unit while leaving the mount in place. Power is supplied via USB-C, and the package includes a long cable and a 12V adapter. In many cases, a car’s existing 2-amp or higher USB port can also power the device.
Parking Mode and Hardwire Kit
For continuous protection, even when your car is parked, the Viofo A229 Pro offers a parking mode feature. However, most cars cut power to their 12V and USB ports when the ignition is off. To enable parking mode, you’ll need to hardwire the camera to your car’s fuse box using a Viofo hardwire kit (sold separately). These kits are available for various car models, and Viofo provides resources to help you choose the correct one and guide you through the hardwiring process.
Useful Accessories Included
Viofo includes several useful accessories with the A229 Pro, enhancing its value. The 12V adapter features an extra USB port, allowing you to charge other devices simultaneously. A circular polarizing lens (CPL) is also included. This lens reduces dashboard glare in certain lighting conditions and can improve video contrast, enhancing overall image quality, with minimal impact on low-light performance. A Bluetooth remote control is available as a separate purchase, providing a convenient way to instantly save important video clips with a single click.
Warranty and Support
Viofo stands behind the A229 Pro with a one-year warranty. By registering your car dash camera on the Viofo website, you can extend the warranty by an additional six months, for a total of 18 months of coverage.
Minor Drawbacks (and why they are not deal-breakers)
While the Viofo A229 Pro is an exceptional car dash camera, there are a few minor points to consider:
- MicroSD Card Not Included: You’ll need to purchase a microSD card separately. Viofo recommends a Class 10 or UHS-I rated card (UHS-III for optimal performance) due to the 4K recording capability. A larger capacity card is advisable to maximize recording time before loop recording overwrites older footage.
- Vertical Design: The A229 Pro’s vertical design, while compact, might be slightly taller than some dash cams. This could be a minor consideration for cars with very small windshields, potentially slightly obstructing the driver’s view.
- Rear Camera Tint Issue: The rear camera’s clarity is excellent, but tinted windows can dim the image. While exposure can be adjusted in the app to compensate during the day, nighttime image quality with heavily tinted windows might be compromised.
- Initial LEDs: The camera has several LEDs that are initially always on. These can be easily turned off via the app settings.
These minor drawbacks are easily outweighed by the Viofo A229 Pro’s numerous strengths.
Conclusion
The Viofo A229 Pro is a top-tier car dash camera that delivers on its promises. Its exceptional 4K video quality, reliable performance in extreme temperatures, user-friendly app, and versatile camera options make it a standout choice. While it requires a separate microSD card purchase and has a few minor considerations, these are far outweighed by its overall performance and feature set. If you are looking for a reliable, high-quality car dash camera to protect yourself and your vehicle, the Viofo A229 Pro is an excellent investment and arguably the best car dash camera currently available.
