As you start your search for a quality dash cam, you need to make sure that your choice will produce great video quality and be easy to install and use. It should have a wide field of view so that it can capture important details. The Nextbase 522GW Dash Cam will deliver all of that and much, much more. (>>> Find the current price on Amazon)
Nextbase 522GW Review of Main Specs:
 | |
|---|---|
| Nextbase 522GW | |
| Resolution (front) | 1440p 60FPS |
| View angle | 140 degree |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Built-in GPS | Yes |
| LTE Module | Yes |
| Maximum capacity | 128 GB |
| Price | Find on Amazon |
The 522 GW has a maximum resolution of 1440p HD at 30 frames per second (fps) or 1080p at 60fps with a wide 140° field of view. Although operating the camera at 1440p would seem to be ideal, actually recording at the lower 1080p resolution will deliver much clearer details, because at 60fps, the camera is more light sensitive and the playback will be much smoother. Video quality is exceptionally good during daylight recording, but only average in low-light situations. The camera has a 2.5-inch IPS HD touch screen (IPS stands for “in-plane switching”, which allows for a richer, easier to read color display) that allows you to access the camera’s menu functions.
The camera lens sticks out from body of the camera, making this a larger sized system that is easier to be seen from outside the vehicle. The lens has an adjustable polarizing filter to help reduce glare. There is also a USB port that can be used to connect the camera to your computer when it comes time for you to transfer your video files.
The power cord attaches to the magnetic mount, rather than the camera itself. This makes it easier to remove and store the camera when you so desire. There have been several consumer complaints about the sticky mounts not being strong enough or coming loose when interior temperatures are subject to a dramatic increase.
As the GW in its names suggests, this camera has built-in GPS (which refreshes at 10HZ, twice as fast as the competition’s 5HZ) and WiFi. Having GPS allows for another feature not found in the competition, Emergency SOS. Emergency SOS enables the camera to automatically notify authorities of your location in the case that emergency services may be required. WiFi with Bluetooth 4.2 makes connecting to your smartphone (called AutoSync) a snap. All you need is the MyNextbase Connect app (for Android or iOS) and the camera will automatically connect to your phone whenever you enter the vehicle.
Pros
- World-class video quality
- 3-inch touch screen
- 140° field of view
- WiFi and Bluetooth built-in
- Amazon Alexa responsiveness
- Emergency SOS Response
Cons
- Menu graphics could be better
- Not true 4K
- No microSD card included
- Owner complaints about mounts
- No loop recording
Alexa Voice Control
Something new in the 522GW is Alexa voice integration. Once this feature is enabled, you can talk to the camera to have it make calls, ask for directions, start or stop a recording, or do things like play music through your car speakers. It’s like having an Amazon Echo in your car. It’s just a simpler way of connecting without having to touch your smartphone while you are busy driving.
Intelligent Parking Mode
By selecting this option from the camera’s menu, the camera will enter into a parking mode when the ignition is turned off. It will activate the G-Force sensor and record and save 3 minutes of video if a bump is detected. If a disturbance is detected more than once, the camera will record and save an additional 3-minute clip for each event it detects.
No Loop Recording
One of the big disappointments with this camera is that it doesn’t offer loop recording. Once the microSD card is full, the camera will not overwrite older video files. You must reformat the card to begin recording again. It also does not come with a memory card. You will need to purchase one separately.
Our Verdict
The Nextbase 522GW should be one of the top dash cams to consider for your car or truck. It delivers superb quality video at a very reasonable price. Add to that features not found in other cameras, like Alexa voice control and Emergency SOS, and we think you will be very happy with the purchase of this dash cam system. (>>> Check on Amazon)