I want to put a DASH CAM in my car..

[khrab]

:

onthedarkside

already post his suggestion in an another thread. (http://www.lazada.co.th/vehicle-black-camera-car-dvr-black-149150.html)

I would love to hear from others about their expericences of installing such a gaget.

Prices, sources, installation, front and back view, daily-use and so one. I am thankful whatever comes up.

[vspin134]

ok here are the tips from owner of a few car cam...

10 must know before you purchase a car cam

1. Always look for at least true 720p (not just what it said on box) HINT: China made products do share same exterior casing.

2. Most cannot withstand Thailand heat so look for sturdy one including holder especially

3. Two types of power source: 1. cigarette socket 2. direct connection with car battery (most Korean products)

4. Look for wide angel lens

5. Remember...screen on unit is not needed (most better quality do not come with screen and most of the time if you need to see your footage you use your laptop or pc)

6. Most with infrared equipped are sub par quality...the better ones do have better circuit with better lens (most highend units do not need infrared to compensate poor lighting)

7. GPS module is nice to have but not needed since all you need is to capture footage (if you have extra cash to burn then yes)

8. Len Aperture of F1.8 or less is better (less number is better)

9. Korean products are better but make sure there is english support

10. Good unit will price from 2,000 to 4,000 (superior will cost 5,000 or more...again this is a car cam not a pro SLR)

[khrab]

ok here are the tips from owner of a few car cam...

10 must know before you purchase a car cam

1. Always look for at least true 720p (not just what it said on box) HINT: China made products do share same exterior casing.

2. Most cannot withstand Thailand heat so look for sturdy one including holder especially

3. Two types of power source: 1. cigarette socket 2. direct connection with car battery (most Korean products)

4. Look for wide angel lens

5. Remember...screen on unit is not needed (most better quality do not come with screen and most of the time if you need to see your footage you use your laptop or pc)

6. Most with infrared equipped are sub par quality...the better ones do have better circuit with better lens (most highend units do not need infrared to compensate poor lighting)

7. GPS module is nice to have but not needed since all you need is to capture footage (if you have extra cash to burn then yes)

8. Len Aperture of F1.8 or less is better (less number is better)

9. Korean products are better but make sure there is english support

10. Good unit will price from 2,000 to 4,000 (superior will cost 5,000 or more...again this is a car cam not a pro SLR)

Wow, so much info. Thank you!

Didn't know it is getting so complex.

May I ask what models you have, if you are happy with it and if were you bought it at which price.

[vspin134]

ok here are the tips from owner of a few car cam...

10 must know before you purchase a car cam

1. Always look for at least true 720p (not just what it said on box) HINT: China made products do share same exterior casing.

2. Most cannot withstand Thailand heat so look for sturdy one including holder especially

3. Two types of power source: 1. cigarette socket 2. direct connection with car battery (most Korean products)

4. Look for wide angel lens

5. Remember...screen on unit is not needed (most better quality do not come with screen and most of the time if you need to see your footage you use your laptop or pc)

6. Most with infrared equipped are sub par quality...the better ones do have better circuit with better lens (most highend units do not need infrared to compensate poor lighting)

7. GPS module is nice to have but not needed since all you need is to capture footage (if you have extra cash to burn then yes)

8. Len Aperture of F1.8 or less is better (less number is better)

9. Korean products are better but make sure there is english support

10. Good unit will price from 2,000 to 4,000 (superior will cost 5,000 or more...again this is a car cam not a pro SLR)

Wow, so much info. Thank you!

Didn't know it is getting so complex.

May I ask what models you have, if you are happy with it and if were you bought it at which price.

This one is decent I am getting this one soon. My other chinese made just broke.

Chinese G1w: http://www.lazada.co.th/g1wgs108-nt96650-full-hd-111083.html?setLang=en

Korean MIR Tech: http://www.carcamkorea.com/store/product/view/%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B8%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B8%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%B8%E0%B9%89%E0%B8%A1_2013_%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%A5%E0%B9%89%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%96%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%B5_MIR_M3_%E0%B8%A0%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%9E%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B0%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%9A_HD_%E0%B8%9A%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%B6%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%93%E0%B8%B0%E0%B8%88%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%94%E0%B9%84%E0%B8%A1%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%95%E0%B9%89-25932944-th.html

[JAS21]

I bought what is called a Vehicle Blackbox DVR Full HD 1080 (off Ensogo.com) ...The recording quality was really good. even at night. But there are a few problems with it. Says it has 160Deg wide angle lens.

1 ... it was designed to be located high up on the windscreen and the camera hanging below the holder. However I have (and want) it mounted on the dashboard with the camera mounted above the holder ... so it records upside down, but viewing with VLC Media on the PC it's easy to invert. So look carefully at the mountain method if you want flexibility.

2 ...it came with a very basic instructions booklet (in English) but the unit appears to be 'locked' in Russian language and I can't change it. Can't even find out how to set the time and date. And after fiddling it is now recording in Black and White only!!

3 ... it records in 3 minute blocks, that is no problem BUT when you stop, say at traffic lights, it stops recording after a short time and only starts recording again when you start driving. It's called motion detect.

I have a 32GB micro SD card in and it is supposed to loop record BUT when the chip is full it doesn't always do that.

Guess I'll put it in the rear window and buy something better.

[JUDAS]

Do a search on youtube for an uploader named "techmoan" He has many extensive reviews on dash cams and I actually ordered one via ebay after working through all his video reviews.

[vtjforyou]

ok here are the tips from owner of a few car cam...

10 must know before you purchase a car cam

1. Always look for at least true 720p (not just what it said on box) HINT: China made products do share same exterior casing.

2. Most cannot withstand Thailand heat so look for sturdy one including holder especially

3. Two types of power source: 1. cigarette socket 2. direct connection with car battery (most Korean products)

4. Look for wide angel lens

5. Remember...screen on unit is not needed (most better quality do not come with screen and most of the time if you need to see your footage you use your laptop or pc)

6. Most with infrared equipped are sub par quality...the better ones do have better circuit with better lens (most highend units do not need infrared to compensate poor lighting)

7. GPS module is nice to have but not needed since all you need is to capture footage (if you have extra cash to burn then yes)

8. Len Aperture of F1.8 or less is better (less number is better)

9. Korean products are better but make sure there is english support

10. Good unit will price from 2,000 to 4,000 (superior will cost 5,000 or more...again this is a car cam not a pro SLR)

I do not agree:

- screen is useful for quick check

- a dashcam with its own rechargeable battery is useful to record when you park

[Daffy D]

"khrab" I would definitely get one with a screen. You have the confidence to know it's working and have playback option on the spot to settle any difference of opinion.

Some times cameras freeze or lock up, with a screen you can see this straightaway. The solution is a reset and try a different memory card, not all memory cards are the same.

"JAS21" All the cameras I have seen have an option to invert the picture. I agree that most off the instruction books are useless but by pressing the "menu" button and clicking through the options setting up is not too difficult.

There are several threads on here already about car/dash cams so worth a search for more information.

Just FYI I have two cameras one in the front and one at the back for any rear enders

[JAS21]

"JAS21" All the cameras I have seen have an option to invert the picture. I agree that most off the instruction books are useless but by pressing the "menu" button and clicking through the options setting up is not too difficult.

Yes but unfortunately the unit seems to be locked in the Russian language ............. and I have tried every combination I think to try and change the language to English.

Yes a good idea to have some indication that camera is recording ... mine has a small flashing red light. It also has a screen but the screen is only about one inch , so of little use. Pretty easy to remove the chip and put it in a phone or tablet if you are unlucky enough to need to.

[Garry]

What are lot of people tend to forget is that they have a potential dashcam right under their noses, as most new smart phones have all the hardware available for dashcam applications. All you need is a RAM mount or similar to mount it. I use the AutoGuard app (lots of variables) on my Android, it will also record in the background if you don't want to see streaming video. There are plenty of other dashcam apps out there in the marketplace.

Sent from my SM-T211 using Tapatalk 4

[IMHO]

What are lot of people tend to forget is that they have a potential dashcam right under their noses, as most new smart phones have all the hardware available for dashcam applications. All you need is a RAM mount or similar to mount it. I use the AutoGuard app (lots of variables) on my Android, it will also record in the background if you don't want to see streaming video. There are plenty of other dashcam apps out there in the marketplace. Sent from my SM-T211 using Tapatalk 4

The problems with smart phones is their narrow field of view (especially when recording at 1080P), and their lack of dynamic range, which can make their night performance as bad as useless.

@OP: Try this website as a starter: http://dashboardcamerareviews.com/category/2014-recommendations/

The one you've linked to on Lazada will be junk - there's no such thing as a good $30 camera.

I have some GT300W's (LS300W) that cost me $60 each out of Hong Kong, and they all do a great job both day and night - the only thing you need to be careful with is micro SD cards - better to buy them from the camera vendor so you're getting one that's compatible with the camera.

I also have to side with the posters suggesting you get one with a screen - with LCD, getting it perfectly aligned the way you want takes seconds, and instant playback on the scene is also possible. Models like the GT300W are still small enough that they can be discretely installed behind the rearview mirror in most cars.

[evadgib]

Do a search on youtube for an uploader named "techmoan" He has many extensive reviews on dash cams and I actually ordered one via ebay after working through all his video reviews.

You beat me to it. I've been a fan of his for years:)

[thailoht]

ok here are the tips from owner of a few car cam...

10 must know before you purchase a car cam

1. Always look for at least true 720p (not just what it said on box) HINT: China made products do share same exterior casing.

2. Most cannot withstand Thailand heat so look for sturdy one including holder especially

3. Two types of power source: 1. cigarette socket 2. direct connection with car battery (most Korean products)

4. Look for wide angel lens

5. Remember...screen on unit is not needed (most better quality do not come with screen and most of the time if you need to see your footage you use your laptop or pc)

6. Most with infrared equipped are sub par quality...the better ones do have better circuit with better lens (most highend units do not need infrared to compensate poor lighting)

7. GPS module is nice to have but not needed since all you need is to capture footage (if you have extra cash to burn then yes)

8. Len Aperture of F1.8 or less is better (less number is better)

9. Korean products are better but make sure there is english support

10. Good unit will price from 2,000 to 4,000 (superior will cost 5,000 or more...again this is a car cam not a pro SLR)

Very good, Thanks!

What are lot of people tend to forget is that they have a potential dashcam right under their noses, as most new smart phones have all the hardware available for dashcam applications. All you need is a RAM mount or similar to mount it. I use the AutoGuard app (lots of variables) on my Android, it will also record in the background if you don't want to see streaming video. There are plenty of other dashcam apps out there in the marketplace. Sent from my SM-T211 using Tapatalk 4

The problems with smart phones is their narrow field of view (especially when recording at 1080P), and their lack of dynamic range, which can make their night performance as bad as useless.

@OP: Try this website as a starter: http://dashboardcamerareviews.com/category/2014-recommendations/

The one you've linked to on Lazada will be junk - there's no such thing as a good $30 camera.

I have some GT300W's (LS300W) that cost me $60 each out of Hong Kong, and they all do a great job both day and night - the only thing you need to be careful with is micro SD cards - better to buy them from the camera vendor so you're getting one that's compatible with the camera.

I also have to side with the posters suggesting you get one with a screen - with LCD, getting it perfectly aligned the way you want takes seconds, and instant playback on the scene is also possible. Models like the GT300W are still small enough that they can be discretely installed behind the rear view mirror in most cars.

Thanks for the LS300W dash cam tip! What would you suggest is the best way to route the cord from the cam to the cigarette lighter if the cam is attached to the back of the rear view mirror?

Also, can it be as easily mounted to the dashboard?

[JAS21]

If you happen to purchase either the LS300W or the GT300W ... think that the difference is mainly software, would you like to say where you got it from, how much you paid and how long it took to come?

I see that you can 'invert the image', so yes you can readily use it attached to the dashboard. No idea where to run the cable if the unit is attached somewhere near the mirror though ... that's why I have mine on the dashboard.

The suction cup really needs a reasonably flat and fairly smooth surface, that is if you want it to stay attached for any length of time.

[Garry]

What are lot of people tend to forget is that they have a potential dashcam right under their noses, as most new smart phones have all the hardware available for dashcam applications. All you need is a RAM mount or similar to mount it. I use the AutoGuard app (lots of variables) on my Android, it will also record in the background if you don't want to see streaming video. There are plenty of other dashcam apps out there in the marketplace. Sent from my SM-T211 using Tapatalk 4

The problems with smart phones is their narrow field of view (especially when recording at 1080P), and their lack of dynamic range, which can make their night performance as bad as useless.

@OP: Try this website as a starter: http://dashboardcamerareviews.com/category/2014-recommendations/

The one you've linked to on Lazada will be junk - there's no such thing as a good $30 camera.

I have some GT300W's (LS300W) that cost me $60 each out of Hong Kong, and they all do a great job both day and night - the only thing you need to be careful with is micro SD cards - better to buy them from the camera vendor so you're getting one that's compatible with the camera.

I also have to side with the posters suggesting you get one with a screen - with LCD, getting it perfectly aligned the way you want takes seconds, and instant playback on the scene is also possible. Models like the GT300W are still small enough that they can be discretely installed behind the rearview mirror in most cars.

Agreed, along with some smart phones, some dashcams offer piss poor fields of view.

Sent from my SM-T211 using Tapatalk 4

[IMHO]

If you happen to purchase either the LS300W or the GT300W ... think that the difference is mainly software, would you like to say where you got it from, how much you paid and how long it took to come?

I see that you can 'invert the image', so yes you can readily use it attached to the dashboard. No idea where to run the cable if the unit is attached somewhere near the mirror though ... that's why I have mine on the dashboard.

The suction cup really needs a reasonably flat and fairly smooth surface, that is if you want it to stay attached for any length of time.

I bought my 3 from 2 different sellers on Ebay, cost was $62-$65. The ones from HK arrived in 12 days, one from China took 27 days. All are the exact same machine, taking the same video quality.

When mounting at the top of the windscreen, just route the power cable in the roof lining, down the A-pillar, and then under the dash until you get to the lighter socket - it's not *that* hard, and the power cable supplied is plenty long enough

[khrab]

If you happen to purchase either the LS300W or the GT300W ... think that the difference is mainly software, would you like to say where you got it from, how much you paid and how long it took to come?

I see that you can 'invert the image', so yes you can readily use it attached to the dashboard. No idea where to run the cable if the unit is attached somewhere near the mirror though ... that's why I have mine on the dashboard.

The suction cup really needs a reasonably flat and fairly smooth surface, that is if you want it to stay attached for any length of time.

I bought my 3 from 2 different sellers on Ebay, cost was $62-$65. The ones from HK arrived in 12 days, one from China took 27 days. All are the exact same machine, taking the same video quality.

When mounting at the top of the windscreen, just route the power cable in the roof lining, down the A-pillar, and then under the dash until you get to the lighter socket - it's not *that* hard, and the power cable supplied is plenty long enough

I am hoping they work with the built-in batteries. At least for a couple of hours.

[fred007]

They Are sold in Thailand as Crash Cams and it is advised when purchasing to purchase 4 one for each corner of your vehicle for full coverage .All crash cams come with a full one day 24 hour warranty only and each crash cam comes with it own Crash Cage for extra protection oh yes bye the way ......SAFE DRIVING IN THAILAND

[thailoht]

They Are sold in Thailand as Crash Cams and it is advised when purchasing to purchase 4 one for each corner of your vehicle for full coverage .All crash cams come with a full one day 24 hour warranty only and each crash cam comes with it own Crash Cage for extra protection oh yes bye the way ......SAFE DRIVING IN THAILAND

Did you forget to add, ".... and be sure to enclose yourself in the biggest and heaviest SUV / pickup vehicle possible", .... but '4' cams?

The IMHO cam looks to be the best all around choice and is the one I am going with, but even though it has the 'Parking Detection' function, wouldn't it be risky to leave the dash cam running on the vehicles window shield, in a Tesco Lotus parking lot for example, visible for all to see? Wouldn't it be an open invitation to car thieves?

[IMHO]

If you happen to purchase either the LS300W or the GT300W ... think that the difference is mainly software, would you like to say where you got it from, how much you paid and how long it took to come?

I see that you can 'invert the image', so yes you can readily use it attached to the dashboard. No idea where to run the cable if the unit is attached somewhere near the mirror though ... that's why I have mine on the dashboard.

The suction cup really needs a reasonably flat and fairly smooth surface, that is if you want it to stay attached for any length of time.

I bought my 3 from 2 different sellers on Ebay, cost was $62-$65. The ones from HK arrived in 12 days, one from China took 27 days. All are the exact same machine, taking the same video quality.

When mounting at the top of the windscreen, just route the power cable in the roof lining, down the A-pillar, and then under the dash until you get to the lighter socket - it's not *that* hard, and the power cable supplied is plenty long enough

I am hoping they work with the built-in batteries. At least for a couple of hours.

I haven't tested the batteries to empty yet, but based on what I've seen on the battery meter, I'd guess it'd only last maybe 45-60 mins while recording video. In motion detect mode it would last longer, depending on how much motion it detects and records though - I'm only guesstimating though as I don't use that mode - everywhere I park my cars are guarded by humans

[John 1]

They Are sold in Thailand as Crash Cams and it is advised when purchasing to purchase 4 one for each corner of your vehicle for full coverage .All crash cams come with a full one day 24 hour warranty only and each crash cam comes with it own Crash Cage for extra protection oh yes bye the way ......SAFE DRIVING IN THAILAND

Did you forget to add, ".... and be sure to enclose yourself in the biggest and heaviest SUV / pickup vehicle possible", .... but '4' cams?

The IMHO cam looks to be the best all around choice and is the one I am going with, but even though it has the 'Parking Detection' function, wouldn't it be risky to leave the dash cam running on the vehicles window shield, in a Tesco Lotus parking lot for example, visible for all to see? Wouldn't it be an open invitation to car thieves?

Who would want to steal a 2000bt dash cam are you paranoid.

[JAS21]

Who would want to steal a 2000bt dash cam are you paranoid

Unfortunately someone might ... I never leave anything visible that could tempt a thief ... what a pain (no pun intended) if they smash your pane.

[Daffy D]

A couple of points:-

Dash cams come with built in batteries that last only a short time. Long enough to set up the initial camera option options in the comfort of your air conditioned living room or to take out of the car to show playback in the event of an accident. If you want to use the motion detection it will have to be connected to the car battery so it stays on even when you leave the car.

The other point is about mounting. I would definitely recommend mounting the camera at the top of the wind screen. If mounted at the bottom the camera has to point straight ahead and you get a lot of bonnet/hood and sky when what you want is the front of your bonnet/hood and road. By mounting at the top the camera is angled down slightly to give the best coverage of impact areas.

[thailoht]

Who would want to steal a 2000bt dash cam are you paranoid

Unfortunately someone might ... I never leave anything visible that could tempt a thief ... what a pain (no pun intended) if they smash your pane.

Exactly!

A couple of points:-

Dash cams come with built in batteries that last only a short time. Long enough to set up the initial camera option options in the comfort of your air conditioned living room or to take out of the car to show playback in the event of an accident. If you want to use the motion detection it will have to be connected to the car battery so it stays on even when you leave the car.

The other point is about mounting. I would definitely recommend mounting the camera at the top of the wind screen. If mounted at the bottom the camera has to point straight ahead and you get a lot of bonnet/hood and sky when what you want is the front of your bonnet/hood and road. By mounting at the top the camera is angled down slightly to give the best coverage of impact areas.

Good point about mounting!

[muratremix]

Screw overpriced korean dashcams. Foxoffer.com is your friend. Get a gt680w and enjoy it

[Porkster]

ok here are the tips from owner of a few car cam...

10 must know before you purchase a car cam

1. Always look for at least true 720p (not just what it said on box) HINT: China made products do share same exterior casing.

2. Most cannot withstand Thailand heat so look for sturdy one including holder especially

3. Two types of power source: 1. cigarette socket 2. direct connection with car battery (most Korean products)

4. Look for wide angel lens

5. Remember...screen on unit is not needed (most better quality do not come with screen and most of the time if you need to see your footage you use your laptop or pc)

6. Most with infrared equipped are sub par quality...the better ones do have better circuit with better lens (most highend units do not need infrared to compensate poor lighting)

7. GPS module is nice to have but not needed since all you need is to capture footage (if you have extra cash to burn then yes)

8. Len Aperture of F1.8 or less is better (less number is better)

9. Korean products are better but make sure there is english support

10. Good unit will price from 2,000 to 4,000 (superior will cost 5,000 or more...again this is a car cam not a pro SLR)

I do not agree:

- screen is useful for quick check

I second that

Unless you want to carry your laptop or iPad around in the car with you any little issue you may have cannot be viewed by the insurance rep...

I proved the included screen very useful during a little scrape in town last week...

- a dashcam with its own rechargeable battery is useful to record when you park

Yes, very useful when you park in one of those typical PARKING SPACES where someone thinks they can stop others from parking there just because they put a plastic chair there or motorbike lengthways along the space... So I either get out and move the bike or run the chair over disintegrating it! LoL

"Oops, sorry, I didn't see the chair there IN THE ROAD!"

My car is registered and insured TWICE to be on the road, chairs are NOT [emoji38]

[Chao Lao Beach]

Screw overpriced korean dashcams. Foxoffer.com is your friend. Get a gt680w and enjoy it

FYI - http://dashcamtalk.com/gt680w/

A big thanks to all sharing info here, finding it really useful.

Anyone know if these are available in Thailand ?

[thaicookingchef]

Totally agree that it's so stupid to buy a dashcam without screen.

You will be locked by the cops before you have time to show the video on any other device.

Ridiculous to think any other way.

[Tywais]

Totally agree that it's so stupid to buy a dashcam without screen.

You will be locked by the cops before you have time to show the video on any other device.

Ridiculous to think any other way.

Actually the units with WiFi will do the job as you can immediately playback on your phone or tablet without any fuss.

I'm seriously considering the G1W-C which is capacitor based rather than battery and doesn't degrade (battery) in the Thailand heat. The reviews have been very good for the price, features and performance. And it has a screen.

G1W-C Review

[thaicookingchef]

A capacitor is this uselss thing that records for 10 seconds whan car is off ?