When choosing the most suitable video recorder for you , it is understood that the first place will be its "filling" - it is the capabilities of the processor and the matrix that determine the functionality of the device, and the image quality directly depends on it. In this place, there is a very fast moral "aging" of the device: until recently, the tandem of Ambarella's A5 and Omnivision OV2710 matrix was considered topical, and now it is also found in low-budget devices.
Although, somehow, such a set is also found in inexpensive recorders. Yes, the price of the video recorder does not guarantee the desired equipment. The matrix of the device must have a higher resolution playback capability than the recording device. In this case, with the help of signal interpolation of several physical pixels, the image is created into one virtual one - the level of "noise" is reduced, which is very important for compact matrices used in video recorders. That is, for 1080p resolution filming, the matrix must be at least 2Mp (in this case, the pixels are counted 1:1), and ideally 4Mp and more (interpolation at least 2:1). If you are positive that with a 1.3Mp matrix you will get a result of 1080p, you can not even look at such a device.
As for optics, the laws here are indisputable - the larger the lens, the easier it is to get a high-quality image. Especially in the dark. So, models with a microscopic "hole" must be put aside. In a quality video recorder, at a minimum, the relative aperture marking should be on the lens itself. The smaller it is, the higher the light power of the lens, the better the lens.
The specifics of automotive use make polarizing filters, which remove reflections from the windshield, a necessity. In this case, from two similar models, it is advisable to choose the one with such a filter.
It should be noted that the diagonal viewing angle is indicated in the characteristics of the devices. In previous car video recorders, the viewing angle of the HD mode was specified, and in the Full HD mode, it was not possible to record in this way. But, you won't find such devices anymore.
So, the optimal viewing angle is 130-140°. Everything else is little needed. This only increases the scope of the frame and understandably the quality of the image. Anything less is a deficiency. The "eye" must also display an image of the environment.
At the right moment, the video recorder will become your best friend and help you prove your innocence. Therefore, we recommend that you choose your device carefully.
Construction
We can now purchase video recorders of various designs. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
Traditional
The camera, the control unit and the display are all in one body. The relative advantage is that everything is connected with one wire (power). We can name the dimensions of the device as a drawback. Especially if the screen is built-in rather than folding.
Modular
The camera and the main unit, and less often the screen, are as separate segments. The compact camera does not attract attention, and the control unit is placed in the cabin compartment after the initial setting, which allows it to be easily removed from there if necessary. But there are also disadvantages: the number of wires increases and the price "grows".
Mirror
All the "contents" of the video recorder are hidden in the rearview mirror, which is attached to (on) the mirror in the interior of the car. The camera is on the back, and the screen is just under the glass and invisible when the device is turned off. As a counterweight to the compactness, it is quite expensive and there is no possibility of use outside the interior of the car.
Device hybrids
Video recorders combined with a navigation device or radar detector. There are devices that can be used as action cameras outside the car. The advantage of such car video recorders can be called their versatility, but for all this, you will have to thin your wallet.
Resolution
The resolution of the matrix is the main parameter that directly affects the quality of the filmed material. And this gives a greater opportunity to prove one's righteousness in extreme situations. There are three main standards: HD, Full HD, Super HD . The outdated VGA is almost unaccepted, and the practical use of the more modern 4K is not implemented due to the high price, large volume of recorded files and high processor load.
- Video recorders of this standard record video material in 1280x720 resolution. Now, that's a bare minimum. Even low-budget devices are equipped with such resolution matrices. They do not make "washed out" frames at the edges and the frame has clear object boundaries.
- Full HD. Devices that support Full HD shoot in 1920x1080 resolution and boast a much sharper image of the road environment. All objects, inscriptions, road markings and license plates will be clearly visible in the video.
- Super HD. Devices of this standard record the image in 2304x1296 resolution. It enables high detailing, and when the fragment is enlarged, it gives the opportunity to see important details in it.
If you want to get the most out of your video recorder, choose models with Super HD video capabilities. Such devices will require a much larger and faster memory card. This will require higher costs. But the almost cinematic image quality will please you.
Be careful when evaluating devices with this parameter. Now there are quite a few video recorders with artificially induced indicators, which manufacturers achieve with the help of interpolation (or, in simpler terms, video stretching). With such a device, you will have a low-quality, "soapy" image, and don't even expect detail.
Currently, Full HD video recorders are considered the most optimal. But even with a limited budget, you have the option of buying a regular HD, which will be a great choice.
Review angle
This is a very important parameter on which the result of the work of the video recorder will depend. The larger the viewing angle, the more of the road and roadside image falls into the frame. It should be at least 120 degrees horizontally or 145 degrees diagonally. Pay special attention to the fact that some manufacturers specify a diagonal angle that is higher.
In addition, sometimes the manufacturer specifies a maximum viewing angle that is only possible for lower resolution video. For example, when writing in Full HD mode, 90-100° is "grabbed", but if you select HD recording mode, the angle will increase to the declared 120°. It should also be remembered: an excessively large viewing angle (from 170° horizontally) will round the edges of the image, causing a "fish-eye" effect. Such a viewing angle is useful when driving at low speeds in the city. This will give you a better view of the roadside and adjacent lanes. When driving on the highway, this angle of vision will cause more inconvenience.
Fastening type and mechanism
The most common mounting options are a vacuum cleaner and double-sided adhesive tape. Some automobile car recorders come with two fastening elements. In this case, with the help of a vacuum cleaner, you can conveniently test the recorder and find the optimal position, after which it can be more stably fixed with adhesive tape.
- A vacuum cleaner is more convenient because it allows you to easily change the location of the recorder and, if necessary, easily remove it. On the other hand, it increases the dimensions of the device.
- Double-sided adhesive tape - the recorder is attached once, and you can remove it only if the design of the hinge allows it.
Nevertheless, this option is more compact, designed for mounting behind the rear view mirror, does not obstruct vision, is less attractive to car thieves and does not stand out in winter.
Pay attention to whether the video recorder has a tilt (rotation) mechanism. This will allow you to point the camera in the right direction if necessary.
The fewer joints in the structure and the smaller they are, the less the device will vibrate while driving, as a result of which we will avoid a "shaky" image.
Feeding
All video recorders work from the car e-mail. network. The power cord adapter connects to a cigarette lighter or to an electrical outlet. connector. After that, the cable is stretched to the place of attachment of the device, around the perimeter of the windshield, under the dashboard or in another way.
Many dash cams have their own batteries (built-in or external) that will power the device when the car "shuts off", which happens occasionally, especially in awkward situations. The battery capacity is enough for a few minutes of work, especially in such cases. There are also such recorders that can work in full-fledged camera mode while outside the car.
Additional functions
Understandably, video recorders have many different functions and settings. Oddly enough, their presence is not always good.
Useful features:
- Impact sensor - is present in almost all devices, which helps to avoid cyclical overwriting of the image (filmed in the event of a collision, extreme acceleration or braking, as well as in the event of a car rollover).
- WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) - a function that stabilizes brightness in various parts of the frame. Improves image quality by eliminating light flashes caused by oncoming car headlights, at night, and during the day from glaring sunlight.
- GPS module - records the route and coordinates, as well as reports on speeding or existing speed meters.
- Sound signals when crossing lane marking lines or simply according to the timer setting. On a long trip, this will help you avoid falling asleep while driving.
- Image Stabilization - Reduces video stuttering and shaking.
- Motion sensor - enables automatic recording when there is movement in the frame. This will help you find the culprit if something goes wrong while parking your car.
Unusable features:
- HDMI - there is no purpose in viewing the video from the video recorder on the TV. The recording can be viewed directly from the memory card (using a PC and the necessary devices), which will facilitate your testimonies as evidence in the event of unpleasant events.
- The touch screen is very inconvenient compared to a device controlled by buttons. If the screen is of the right size, as in X-COP R750, X-COP R700, X-COP 9700, then on the contrary, touch control becomes very convenient, you don't have to think about what to press.
- Camera function - it is unlikely that you will use this device to take pictures of the scene or the like. For this, the camera device on the phone is more often used.
- LED lighting - according to its purpose, it should improve the image quality when filming in the dark. But in reality, the device does not manage to perform this function with high quality.
Buyer memo
As you can see, there are not so many parameters for video recorders. Therefore:
- When narrowing down your search, select key criteria that will fit your chosen budget and functional usage needs.
- Select several models that meet your requirements.
- Also, when using YouTube, carefully watch the video reviews. This will help you learn more about the features of specific video recorders and help you make a final decision on which device to choose.
Autogars offers Neoline video recorders and radar detectors. - Press
