Thinkware is one of the most popular dash cam companies around right now. They offer a wide range of cameras to suit the needs of any driver. Today, we’ll look at the Thinkware X1000 vs U1000 to discuss the significant differences between these two similarly-named products and help you identify which one is best for you. While both have features that make them attractive, we prefer the U1000 for the options that seriously enhance the usefulness of the camera (>>>Check its pricing on Amazon).
Thinkware X1000 vs U1000 Side by Side:
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Thinkware X1000 | Thinkware U1000 | |
| Resolution (front) | 2560 x 1440 | 3840X2160 |
| View angle | 156° | 150° |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | No | Yes |
| Built-in GPS | Yes | Yes |
| LTE Module | No | No |
| Maximum capacity | 128GB | 128GB |
| Price | Find on Amazon | Find on Amazon BHPhotoVideo.com |
You might be tempted to think that these two dash cameras have similar appearances, features, or functions based on how similar the names are, but you’ll be surprised to learn that they have almost nothing in common. First, we will take a look at what the X1000 offers, then show you why we think the Thinkware U1000 is a superior purchase.
The one thing these cameras share is the use of a rear camera. Both cameras include a QHD 1440p rear camera that is one of the best designs on the market and offers unparalleled rear image capture and quality.
Thinkware X1000
This is one of the more attractive cameras around and has the feel and finish of a high-quality product. Looking like a miniature digital camera, the front-facing device provides an easy to mount design that allows simple access to the 3.5-inch touchscreen. Accessing the touchscreen is essential since you’ll use it for settings, viewing video files, and more.
The Basics
Unlike many other cameras out there, the X1000 does not use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other connections to allow for video file transfers. That means you’ll either view the files on the screen or you’ll remove the MicroSD card to view files. It also means there is no cloud storage, so you’ll want the largest compatible MicroSD card possible. This camera can handle up to a 128GB card.
Special Features
One of the best features about this camera is the use of proprietary Super Night Vision 3.0 technology that ensures you get crisp, clean, clear image capture even on pitch-black nights. When using an optional battery pack or when the device is hard wire installed, you can set it to record even when the vehicle is parked.
Optional Features
You can add an optional GPS antenna to this camera to enable advanced driver assistance features. The camera can provide lane departure warning, front collision warning, low-speed collision warning and front vehicle departure warning to help every driver be safer.
Pros
- Easy to use and install and it looks great
- Good quality night images when using parking mode
Cons
- Doesn’t include 12v power cable
- No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to facilitate file transfers
Thinkware U1000
Right off the bat, there are some serious differences between this camera and the X1000. The U1000 does away with the touchscreen, but adds Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections to allow for wireless file transfers which makes this camera significantly more convenient to use. The use of these technologies also means that the U1000 can upload video files to the cloud, making it even more convenient to use.
The Basics
The front-facing camera provides 4k UHD video capture and does a phenomenal job of getting proper lighting and angles without distortion. The front camera uses the advanced Sony STARVIS Exmor R sensor that ensures smooth video and unbelievably detailed night vision. Coupled with Super Night Vision 2.0 tech, you’ll get fantastic, accurate images even on moonless nights.
The U1000 has a built-in GPS antenna that enables this camera to provide a full suite of driver safety features, including front collision warning, lane departure warnings, and front departure warnings. It also provides red light camera and speed trap camera warnings, features you’ll have a hard time finding from any other device around. For our more in-depth review of the Thinkware U1000, click here.
Parking Mode
The U1000 can be installed using an included hardwire kit that will allow the camera to capture video even when you aren’t driving. The camera uses a g-sensor and a motion sensor to detect threats and begin recording. This is an ideal function for providing enhanced vehicle safety around the clock.
Pros
- One of the best image quality cameras on the market at any price
- Discreet design is easy to install and hide from view
Cons
- Files are very large and will quickly max out even the highest capacity card
- Some people found the unit to be too “chatty” when using ADAS
Comparing Image Quality
Side-by-side, you’ll notice a significant difference between 4k and 2k video files. The U1000 will provide clearer images that are easier to enlarge and still keep fine details. You can even switch it to 2k and capture video at a blazing 60 frames-per-second. This gives you the ability to enlarge and see license plates with ease.
Where the X1000 has a slight advantage is capturing night vision. The more advanced Super Night Vision 3.0 gives clearer details and provides a better looking image at night. During the day, however, the more clear image capture of the U1000 beats out the night vision abilities of the X1000.
Installation and Included Items
One other aspect that we think gives the U1000 a win is that you’ll get both a hard wire kit and a 12v power cable. The X1000 only includes the hard wire kit, which isn’t the preferred method of installation for many people who aren’t interested in using parking mode technology. Further, the included GPS antenna of the U1000 saves you money in the long run because you’ll need to purchase and install the GPS antenna separately for the X1000, complicating installation and adding expenses.
Conclusion
Our hands-down winner between these two cameras is the U1000 (>>> Find on Amazon). The addition of basic things like Wi-Fi sets this one apart. The video quality is nothing short of amazing and the additional features included make this a bargain. We would like to see Thinkware design a three-channel design based off the U1000 to provide even more protection by capturing interior angles, but that is about the only thing this camera really lacks. File sizes are very large, and the limited capacity of the MicroSD card can become problematic if your camera is recording lots of event files that don’t get overwritten.
We like both of these cameras from Thinkware and have had great success using the products. The X1000 could be a great option for people who don’t like using Wi-Fi in their car, but we think the convenience of accessing files outweighs the inconvenience and risk of using Wi-Fi.