I recently had the opportunity to test the Vantrue N5, and I must say, it left a lasting impression. Here's my review based on my initial hands-on experience and a detailed evaluation of the video quality from all cameras, tested without mounting them to a vehicle.
The Vantrue N5's video quality is exceptional across all cameras. The front camera records in a crisp 2592x1944p resolution, providing clear and detailed footage. During my tests, it consistently delivered high-quality recordings, both during the day and at night. The two interior cameras, equipped with infrared lighting, captured excellent footage even in low-light conditions, ensuring all details inside the cabin are clearly visible.
From my initial tests, I was particularly impressed with the wide field of view. The front camera offers a 158-degree angle, while the rear and cabin cameras cover 160 degrees. This extensive coverage significantly reduces blind spots, providing comprehensive surveillance around the vehicle, even though I tested them unmounted in a vehicle setting.
Setting up the Vantrue N5 was straightforward. The adjustable front camera mount allowed for easy positioning, and the user-friendly interface, combined with a 3.18-inch color display, made navigation intuitive. The voice control feature is a standout, enabling hands-free operation with commands like "lock the video" and "take photo," enhancing the user experience considerably.
The parking modes of the Vantrue N5 are innovative and practical. During my tests, the buffered parking mode, which records footage 10 seconds before and 30 seconds after an event is detected, proved to be particularly useful. This feature provides comprehensive monitoring even when the vehicle is parked.
The build quality of the Vantrue N5 feels robust and reliable. The use of a supercapacitor instead of a traditional battery ensures durability and reliability, especially in extreme temperatures. The built-in GPS is another highlight, embedding and watermarking location data on the footage, which is incredibly useful for tracking and reviewing purposes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Superior video quality across all cameras
Wide field of view for almost 360-degree coverage
Easy setup and intuitive interface
Effective parking modes with advanced features
Robust build quality with supercapacitor and GPS integration
Cons:
Premium price point, though justified by its features and reliability
Overall, my first impressions of the Vantrue N5 are overwhelmingly positive. Testing all cameras without mounting them to a vehicle still showcased their high-quality video capabilities and user-friendly features. If you're looking for a comprehensive and reliable dash cam, the Vantrue N5 is an excellent choice. Highly recommended!