The Thinkware X800 is a front-facing dash camera with high-resolution capture capabilities and numerous Advanced Driver Safety features, making it a top choice with buyers. This Thinkware X800 review will explain the features and functions of this dash camera and show you why we think it is an excellent choice for first-time dash cam buyers. Find it on Amazon
Thinkware X800 Review of Specs:
 | |
|---|---|
| Thinkware X800 | |
| Resolution (front) | 2560 x 1440 @30fps |
| View angle | 150° |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | No |
| Built-in GPS | Optional GPS Antenna required |
| Parking mode | Yes |
| Maximum capacity | 128 GB |
| Price | Find on Amazon BHPhotoVideo.com |
Rear Display
One of the first features you’ll notice about the X800 is the large 2.7 inch LCD touchscreen display. The display is a convenient way to view video files and access settings. Thinkware smartly uses the display for Advanced Driver Safety feature alerts, including lane departure and front collision warnings. Despite some initial reservations about the small screen size, the X800 performs better than the previous X700 model that we tested, and the screen is clearer and more legible, even in bright light.
Camera Capabilities
Thinkware uses an advanced STARVIS Sony sensor to capture video files with a resolution of 1440p. The front-facing camera provides a viewing angle of 150°, the ideal width of the image to capture vehicles approaching from the sides, and a clear view of the front. The STARVIS sensor gives the X800 Super Night Vision 2.0, which ensures clear and corrected images in low-light situations.
The X800 offers parking mode but requires a hardwire kit sold separately from the camera. Parking mode allows the camera to monitor impacts that occur when the vehicle is not on, while a built-in car battery shut-off prevents the camera from discharging your car’s battery and leaving you stranded.
Thinkware offers a full HD rear camera that can be connected to the X800 to provide front and rear camera capabilities. The rear camera is sold separately. To get all of the features from the X800, buyers will also need to purchase a GPS antenna which is not included with the X800.
Video File Storage
The Thinkware X800 offers several video capture modes depending on specific circumstances. in Normal operation, the X800 records one minute of video continuously. There is a 10 to 15-second lapse between video files. The dash camera uses a built-in g-sensor to detect impacts, such as when a driver is in a car accident, and these video files are stored separately from normal recordings. Drivers can also use the manual record button on the dash camera manually record a one-minute video while driving, and these files will be saved separately. Check out our review of Thinkware’s flagship dashcam, the U1000.
Video files are automatically stored on a MicroSD card on board the dash cam. Thinkware includes a 32 GB micro SD card. In our experience, the SD card tends to fill up quickly due to the high-resolution files, and it is best to purchase a 64 GB card separately. Like other dash cams, the X800 requires a class 10 or higher SD card.
The Thinkware X800 lacks built-in Wi-Fi and does not have the ability to save video files to the cloud. That means, anytime you want to view a video file, your two options are on the 2.7 inch display screen or to physically remove the SD card and insert it into a PC or Mac.
What We Like About This Dash Cam
Thinkware did a great job of providing numerous available features that allow the X800 to compete against significantly more expensive dash cameras. Some drivers simply prefer having the rear display and the alternative options available are limited. The X800 is one of the best touchscreen display dash cameras we have used. The X800 offers an inexpensive way for drivers who simply need a basic dash camera to provide that functionality in any car.
What We Don’t Like About This Dash Cam
The X800 has a lot to offer but we find that in order to get the most out of this camera there are numerous options that must be purchased separately. Once you buy the rear camera, the hardwire kit, and the GPS antenna, you will have spent as much as if you had purchased a dash camera with better resolution and features that includes these options.
Pros
- 2K QHD front camera with Sony STARVIS sensor
- 150° wide viewing angle for better coverage
- Super Night Vision 2.0 for clear low-light footage
- Advanced safety features, including ADAS and alerts
- Reliable supercapacitor with integrated thermal protection
Cons
- The number of accessories required separately to take advantage of available features makes This camera less of a bargain
- Our biggest complaint is the lack of Wi-Fi that makes viewing video files annoying
Conclusion
Thinkware has consistently been one of the most reliable dash cam manufacturers over the last several years. We have tested numerous Thinkware cameras and have had few negative things to say. The company also boasts one of the best customer service departments we have encountered which gives Thinkware and advantage over most other companies that we deal with.
The Thinkware X800 has a lot to offer but lacks some of the necessary optional components that make the advanced features worth the money. (Find the current price on BHPhotoVideo.com) We think that the driver who prefers a touch screen display will be perfectly happy with the X800. Drivers who would prefer to access video files on their phone remotely should spend a little more and buy a dash cam with built-in Wi-Fi.
Comparing against other dashcams:
- Thinkware X800 vs. X1000 Side-by-Side