A good-quality dah camera is one of the smartest investments you can make to ensure your safety and to help prevent people from ripping you off. Dash cam video is an essential tool for insurance claims after an automobile accident and it can make the difference between getting a fair settlement and getting nothing. Dash cams can also be helpful when dealing with law enforcement. You’ll be able to prove your side of the story so that the police aren’t able to make it seem like you did something wrong.
The problem is that many dash cameras are very expensive and hard to use. This Thinkware X700 review will demonstrate why this affordable dash cam is a great choice for most drivers who are looking for quality and security at a reasonable price. (>>> Find the current price on Amazon)
Thinkware X700 Review of Main Specs:
 | |
|---|---|
| Thinkware X700 | |
| Resolution (front) | 1080P, 30fps |
| View angle | 142.7° |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | No |
| Built-in GPS | Yes |
| LTE Module | No |
| Maximum capacity | 64GB |
| Price | Find on Amazon |
The X700 looks like a tiny digital camera that you would take on vacation. It features a 2.7-inch LCD touchscreen that faces the driver. The touchscreen is used for settings and menus and can also display the recorded videos.
Camera Lens and Sensor Technology
The X700 uses an advanced Sony STARVIS sensor that provides Full HD video resolution at 1080p. Videos are recorded at 30 frames per second to provide a smooth image that is easy to get still images from, an ideal feature for insurance claims and court cases. A specia processing algorithm uses the advanced sensor to provide Super Night Vision that enhances details in low-light environments.
The lens captures a wide-angle view that measures 142.7-degrees on a diagonal. This is an excellent compromise between super-wide angle images that lose clarity and narrow-angle images that miss important action.
Rear Camera
The X700 is a two-channel system and includes a rear camera. The rear camera mounts to the inside of the rear window and captures 1080p images using a CMOS sensor.
Pros
- Good quality images and features at a reasonable price
- Well-built design that looks nice and feels sturdy
Cons
- Lack of Wi-Fi makes files less accessible and prevents the use of an app
- Hardwiring kit not included
Storage and File Playback
A microSD card is required to store video files. The package includes an appropriate 16gb card to get you started. The camera can accept up to a 128gb card to extend the amount of video files you can store. When the card is full, the camera will automatically loop-record and overwrite the earliest video files. The included card provides approximately two hours of video file storage.
The X700 does not have Wi-Fi, so your options for playback are somewhat limited. The simplest way is to view the files on the touchscreen, however this isn’t always comfortable or convenient and the small screen size is less than ideal. Alternatively, you can remove the microSD card and play the video files on a compatible device.
Advanced Driver Assist Safety Features
The X700 includes an optional GPS antenna that allows the device to provide you with some helpful functions. The camera can issue an alert when it senses you leaving your lane, when vehicles are too close to the front of the car, and it will alert you to the presence of red-light cameras.
Parking Mode Features
When you hardwire the camera to your car or install an optional remote power pack, the X700 is capable of continuing to record even when the vehicle is turned off. The camera uses a g-sensor to detect impacts to your vehicle, then automatically saves the footage just before and for one minute after the impact.
Conclusion
When you are looking for a good-quality camera but you don’t want to spend a fortune, this is an excellent option. One of the best things about Thinkware cameras is that when you have an issue, their customer service department is friendly, helpful, and responsive. With that said, image quality is decent for the price, but higher resolution cameras are becoming the standard and are becoming more affordable all the time. It might be better for some people to spend a little more on one of the higher resolution cameras from Thinkware if they want the best possible resolution and features. (>>> Check on Amazon)
REFERENCES AND FURTHER READING:
- Thinkware X700 vs Thinkware F200 Pro Comparison
- Check out our review of the sibling dashcam model, the X800