Garmin Dash Cams

The company was founded in 1989.Initially, they focused on creating GPS devices for aviation and marine use. In fact, their first product was a GPS unit for aircraft.Over the years, Garmin expanded its product line to include GPS devices for various applications, such as automotive navigation, outdoor activities (like hiking and camping), fitness, and more. They've become well-known for their handheld GPS units, smartwatches, and fitness trackers.

Product Selection

Garmin offers a range of dash cams designed to enhance road safety and provide documentation in case of incidents. Here are a few notable models:

  1. Garmin Dash Cam Mini: This compact and discreet dash cam is designed to be easily mounted on the windshield. Despite its small size, it captures high-quality 1080p video.

  2. Garmin Dash Cam 46/56/66W: These models vary in features, with the Dash Cam 66W offering a wider field of view. They come with features like voice control, driver alerts, and compatibility with the Garmin Drive app.

  3. Garmin Dash Cam 56: This compact dash cam offers a 1440p resolution and includes driver assistance features like lane departure warnings and forward collision alerts.

  4. Garmin Dash Cam Tandem: Known for its dual-lens setup, the Tandem captures both the road ahead and the interior of the vehicle simultaneously. This is particularly useful for rideshare drivers or anyone who wants comprehensive coverage.

  5. Garmin Dash Cam 55: With features like GPS logging, voice control, and high-quality video recording, the Dash Cam 55 is a well-rounded option.

Availability

Garmin Dash Cams were widely available through various channels. You could find them at electronics retailers, online marketplaces, and directly from Garmin's official website.

Design/Look

Garmin Dash Cams typically feature a sleek and compact design, aiming for discreet and unobtrusive installation on your vehicle's windshield. Here's a general overview of their design:

  1. Compact Form Factor: Garmin Dash Cams are often designed to be small and inconspicuous. This helps minimize distraction and ensures they don't obstruct your view while driving.

  2. Mounting Options: They usually come with easy-to-install windshield mounts that allow for quick attachment and detachment. The mounts are designed to keep the dash cam securely in place.

  3. Neutral Colors: Garmin tends to opt for neutral colors like black or gray, contributing to a subtle and understated appearance.

  4. LCD Display: Some models may have a small LCD display for easy navigation and settings adjustments. However, the focus is on simplicity and functionality.

  5. Buttons and Controls: The controls are generally intuitive, with easy-to-access buttons for functions like manual recording, saving footage, and adjusting settings.

Price

The price of Garmin Dash Cams can vary based on the model and its features. Here's a general idea of the price range:

  1. Garmin Dash Cam Mini: This is usually one of the more affordable options, falling in the lower price range.

  2. Garmin Dash Cam 46/56/66W: These mid-range models offer a balance between features and cost.

  3. Garmin Dash Cam 55: Positioned in the mid to higher range, this model often comes with additional features like GPS logging and voice control.

  4. Garmin Dash Cam Tandem: Being a dual-lens dash cam, it tends to be on the higher end of the price spectrum.

Quality/Durability

Garmin is generally known for producing reliable and durable products, and their dash cams are no exception. The quality and durability of Garmin Dash Cams can be evaluated based on several factors:

  1. Build Quality: Garmin dash cams are designed with a focus on sturdiness and longevity. The materials used in their construction are typically of high quality, ensuring durability in various driving conditions.

  2. Video Quality: The video recording quality is a key aspect of dash cams. Garmin dash cams often provide high-resolution video, capturing clear details and ensuring that footage is useful for documentation purposes.

  3. Reliability: Garmin is a reputable brand with a history of producing reliable products. Their dash cams are engineered to function consistently, providing a reliable recording of your journeys.

  4. Weather Resistance: Garmin Dash Cams are designed to withstand different weather conditions, including extreme temperatures. This ensures that the device remains operational regardless of whether you're driving in hot summers or freezing winters.

  5. Longevity of Features: Garmin frequently updates its dash cam models with new features and firmware updates. This commitment to ongoing support contributes to the longevity and usefulness of their products.

 

Viofo Dash Cams

Viofo is a brand known for its dash cameras and related accessories. The company was founded in 2011 and has since gained recognition for producing high-quality and reliable dashcams for automotive use. Viofo's products are designed to capture clear and detailed footage while driving, serving as a valuable tool for both individual drivers and businesses.

Product Selection

Viofo offers a range of dash cams, each catering to different preferences and needs. Here are a few notable models from their lineup:

  1. Viofo A119 V3:

    • Known for its discreet design and excellent video quality.
    • Features include 2K ultra HD resolution, 140-degree wide-angle lens, and optional GPS functionality.
  2. Viofo A129 Duo:

    • Dual-channel dash cam system, capturing both the front and rear views.
    • Offers 1080p resolution on both cameras, GPS logging, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
  3. Viofo A129 Pro Duo:

    • Similar to the A129 Duo but with upgraded specifications.
    • Boasts 4K UHD resolution on the front camera and 1080p on the rear, providing top-notch video quality.
  4. Viofo A139:

    • A three-channel system with front, interior, and rear-facing cameras.
    • Designed for rideshare drivers or those who want comprehensive coverage inside and outside the vehicle.
  5. Viofo A123:

    • A compact and budget-friendly option with 1080p resolution.
    • Suitable for users who want a simple and reliable dash cam without advanced features.

Availability

Viofo dash cams are widely available through various channels, both online and offline. You can find them on popular e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and dedicated electronics retailers. Additionally, some automotive accessory stores may carry Viofo products.

Design/Look

Viofo dash cams generally have a sleek and compact design. They are crafted to be discreet and not overly conspicuous on your vehicle's windshield. The form factor is often rectangular or cylindrical, depending on the model.

Common features in the design of Viofo dash cams include:

  1. Compact Size: Viofo dash cams are designed to be unobtrusive, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your vehicle's interior without obstructing the driver's view.

  2. Minimalist Aesthetics: The overall design tends to be minimalist, with a focus on functionality. Buttons and controls are usually intuitive and placed for easy access.

  3. Rotatable Lenses: Many models have adjustable lenses, allowing you to find the optimal angle for capturing footage. This flexibility is particularly useful for achieving the desired view of both the road and the interior of the vehicle.

  4. Discreet Mounting: Viofo dash cams often come with suction cup mounts or adhesive mounts that provide a secure and discreet attachment to your windshield.

While the primary focus is on functionality and performance, Viofo pays attention to the aesthetics to ensure that their dash cams complement the interior of various vehicles

Price

The prices of Viofo dash cams can vary depending on the model and its features. Generally, Viofo is known for offering competitive prices while maintaining high-quality performance. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, here's a rough pricing overview:

  1. Entry-Level Models: Viofo offers budget-friendly options that typically range from $50 to $100. These models provide essential features like HD recording and reliable performance.

  2. Mid-Range Models: In the mid-range category, you can find dash cams with additional features such as higher resolution (e.g., 2K or 4K), GPS functionality, and dual-channel recording. Prices for these models typically range from $100 to $200.

  3. Premium Models: Viofo's premium or flagship models, with advanced features like 4K UHD resolution, dual-channel 4K recording, and enhanced connectivity options, can be priced higher, ranging from $200 to $300 or more.

Quality/Durability

Viofo is generally well-regarded for the quality and durability of its dash cams. The brand has gained a positive reputation for providing reliable and sturdy devices that perform well over time. Here are some aspects of Viofo dash cams that contribute to their quality and durability:

  1. Build Quality: Viofo dash cams are typically constructed with quality materials that withstand the rigors of daily use. The build is solid, contributing to the longevity of the device.

  2. Video Quality: Viofo is known for offering dash cams with high-resolution video recording capabilities. The quality of footage is crucial for capturing details, and Viofo strives to deliver clear and sharp video even in various driving conditions.

  3. Heat Resistance: Dash cams are often exposed to heat when mounted on windshields, especially in sunny climates. Viofo designs its dash cams with heat-resistant materials and cooling mechanisms to ensure reliable performance in different temperatures.

  4. Reliability: Viofo dash cams are known for their reliability in capturing and storing footage. Features such as loop recording, which automatically overwrites older footage, contribute to the dependable operation of the device.

  5. Warranty and Customer Support: Viofo typically provides a warranty for their products, and good customer support adds to the overall satisfaction of users. A reliable warranty can give you peace of mind regarding the durability of your investment.