Thinkware X1000 Review
Our Verdict
Compare to Similar Products
This Product Thinkware X1000 | |||||
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Awards | Best Overall Dash Cam | Best Bang for the Buck | Documents Inside and Out | ||
Price | $390 List $299.99 at Amazon | $200 List | $130 List | $120 List $99.99 at Amazon | $300 List $285.58 at Amazon |
Overall Score | |||||
Star Rating | |||||
Bottom Line | This dash cam has a great daytime video performance, though it's not the best after the sun sets | A great camera for rideshare drivers that need in-cabin footage, but probably overkill for most other people | Regardless of the time, this dash cam captures clear and crisp videos | With its continuous recording and saving, this dash cam is sure to capture everything, and in 4K too | A dual-camera for your dash so you can see what's happening both inside and outside |
Rating Categories | Thinkware X1000 | Vantrue N2 Pro Uber... | Miofive 4K | Rove R2-4K | Garmin Tandem |
Video Quality (40%) | |||||
Video Capture (25%) | |||||
Interface (25%) | |||||
Visual Footprint (10%) | |||||
Specs | Thinkware X1000 | Vantrue N2 Pro Uber... | Miofive 4K | Rove R2-4K | Garmin Tandem |
Forward Camera Field of View | 156º | 170º | 140º | 150º | 180º |
Forward Camera Resolution | 1440p | 1440p | 2160p | 2160p | 1440p |
Screen Size | 3.5" | 1.5" | 2.2" | 2.4" | N/A |
Event Detection G Sensor | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Cabin Camera | No | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Camera Dimensions L x W x H | 4-1/8" x 2-7/16" x 1-1/8" | 3-4/5" x 1-1/2" x 1-1/2" | 4-1/2" x 1-5/8" x 1-3/16" | 1-1/5" x 2-4/5 x 2-1/2" | 2-1/5" x 1-3/5" x 4/5" |
Built-in Wi-Fi? | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Thinkware X1000 did an exceptional job keeping its daytime video quality up with the 4K resolution competitors. It boasts a massive LCD screen that is straightforward and easy to see. Overall, we were impressed with the Thinkware, but we wish it performed better after the sun went down.
Performance Comparison
Video Quality
The Thinkware has a dual camera system, rear and front, with a 156-degree field of view. The system records at a native 2964p and scales it down to a 1440p resolution. That said, the videos had no graininess whatsoever during the day. We could clearly read license plates and road signs.
The nighttime video quality is a different story. The videos are grainy and contain a substantial glare. This was made worse by any oncoming headlights. Because of this, we were unable to make out any license plates when the sun went down.
Video Capture
The camera starts recording as soon as the car is turned on, so it'll never skip a beat. It records in one-minute clip lengths and loops over the oldest footage when full. It includes a sensitive G-Sensor that will initiate a hard brake or quick stop. The device doesn't include WiFi connection, so connecting to a PC by cord or MicroSD reader is required for pulling videos. Additionally, the system has a parking mode, though the device needs to be hardwired to support this.
Interface
The X1000 has a large 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen. The screen is well-lit, easy to see, and has a clear image. The interface is clean and easy to understand, with well-labeled buttons. Getting to the main menu is a breeze, and once there, there are options for volume control, brightness, microphone settings, parking mode, and files. The files include the footage gallery and memory settings. Overall, this was one of the best interface designs in the lineup.
Visual Footprint
Having such a large screen comes with its downsides, especially when it comes to its visual footprint. The Thinkware takes up a decent amount of space as it is roughly four inches long and over two inches wide. It resembles a small digital camera from the early 2000s and can be slightly distracting when driving. It attaches to the windshield with an adhesive mount, which is pretty standard for most dash cams. It doesn't have an internal battery, so it'll need to stay plugged in. An additional hardwiring kit is available to rid the hanging cord, and it also enables the parking mode.
Should you buy the Thinkware X1000?
Overall, the Thinkware X1000 is a decent camera. It shines in its daytime video performance with no glare or graininess. Its performance was similar to that of the 4K resolution models. However, the same can't be said for its nighttime performance. If you primarily drive during the day, this camera is a great option. However, we would suggest a different model if you're more active at night.
What other dash cams should you consider?
The Miofive 4K had a similar daytime performance to the Thinkware. However, the Miofive did a bit better at night. It was able to capture license plates and road signs, regardless of the time of day. If you're looking for a dash cam that is small and gets the job done, check out the Garmin Mini 2. It's not the most advanced, but its minimalist design allows it to blend into its surroundings so you can focus on the road.