Filipino drivers would always recommend having a dash cam installed in your vehicles, no thanks to numerous “kamote” drivers scattered in our roads. While I admit that they’re indeed helpful, I’ve never owned one. Actually, I did use one – a cheap version my brother installed several years ago. I removed it from my then new Toyota Innova because it was clunky and the video output was unpleasant. I haven’t considered any dash cams until I was offered to review the 70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+ A500S. Will this become a new accessory for my vehicle?
Table of Contents
70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+ A500S Specs:
| Display: | 2.0″ 60Hz-NTTSC (DEFAULT) |
|---|---|
| Wireless Connections: | Wi-Fi GPS |
| Memory: | up to 128GB MicroSD |
| Connectors: | Micro USB, AV/IN |
| Cameras: | 5MP rotating, viewing angle 140 degrees |
| Video Resolutions | 1920x1440P, 2560x1920P, 2592x1944P |
| Audio Recording | Yes |
| Price: | Php 5,999 |
The Unboxing
Unlike the dash cam we had before, the 70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+ is presented in a premium packaging. It gives me the impression that this Dash Cam is not the cheapo type you’ll find in an online store.
Inside the box are the 70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+, Micro USB Cable, USB Cigarette Car Charger, tape mount and User Manual.
The Looks and Feels
Holding the 70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+ offered me the confidence that it is definitely not a cheapo dashcam like the one I had before. While the body is made of plastic, it definitely feels solid and superior.
The Dash Cam Pro Plus+ has a 2.0″ display with three resolutions to select from: 1920x1440P, 2560x1920P, and 2592x1944P.
Function buttons to navigate different controls of the Dash Cam Pro Plus+ are found below the display.
On the right side of the Dash Cam are the AV/IN and Micro USB ports used for powering the device. The availability of the AV/IN port means the Dash Cam Pro Plus+ supports rear camera recording. The MicroSD Card slot can accommodate up to a capacity of 128GB.
What I like about this Dash Cam is its rotating camera. This feature lets me adjust the camera’s angle according to my preference. It also has the widest angle coverage compared to other models with a field of view of 140 degrees.
The Performance
Installation
Installation was quite easy. I was supposed to position it behind the rearview mirror but the upper portion of the windshield is covered with tint. We were pleased to find out that our AutoSweep RFID was not placed at the center of the windshield, giving us the best area to stick our Dash Cam Pro Plus+.
We cleaned the windshield with facial wipes and applied the tape mount. It has a latch which secures the Dash Cam when attached and can be easily removed when needed.
The placement of the Dash Cam kinda worried me because I might not have a good viewing angle. Fortunately, the rotating camera lets me adjust the view.
Dash Cam Set-Up
Setting up the Dash Cam Pro Plus+ was a breeze. First, it needs to be plugged in to the cigarette car charger to power it on. It then required us to update the software then set the date and time. We then paired it with the 70mai app installed in our smartphone which we will discuss a little bit later.
Recording
The 70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+ automatically turns on whenever I turn on the engine of my car. The display shows the camera is already recording. Recording duration is defaulted to 1 minute and can be extended to 2 or 3 minutes. Audio recording is also possible.
We took the Dash Cam Pro Plus+ for a spin on a sunny day. By checking our recorded videos, we were impressed by its video quality. Details were spot-on while to color profile looks neutral. Speaking of details, the plate numbers of the cars moving on the opposite lane are visible and readable.
Video quality is also good for recordings taken during the night. However, we noticed that the lights coming from the other cars or lightposts cause the videos to be blown out. Details are visible but not clear enough. Plate numbers can be visible if there are less light sources around the area.
GPS
Aside from recording video clips, the 70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+ A500S is equipped with a built-in GPS. This provides more information when reviewing a video clip like how fast were you driving and coordinates of the area.
Shock Sensor
The Dash Cam Pro also comes with a shock sensor. It informs the driver of potential accidents like hitting another object. In my experience it is always triggered whenever I drive fast on a hump or potholes. The sensor can also work as a 24-hour Smart Parking Surveillance if you have the 70mai hardwire kit installed.
70mai App
The 70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+ A500S can be connected wirelessly to a smartphone with the 70mai app. It can be downloaded via a QR code provided by the Dash Cam or simply search through Google Play or Apple App Store. The Dash Cam’s WiFi hotspot should be turned on in order for the smartphone app to connect.
Once connected, you can either capture a photo remotely or access the Dash Cam’s albums. Rather than review the videos on the Dash Cam Pro Plus+’ small screen, you can view them on a bigger device like your smartphone.
Dash Cam’s settings can also be modified through the 70mai app. Easier than setting it up through the small screen of the Dash Cam Pro Plus+.
DR’s CONCLUSION
After using the 70mai Dash Cam Pro Plus+ A500s for the past couple of weeks, I am convinced that it should be part of my cars must-have accessories. Its features convinced me to acquire additional accessories like the rear dash cam and hardwire kit. Having those with the Dash Cam Pro Plus+ A500S will provide me protection while I drive with a peace of mind. My wish is they could provide software updates to improve the camera’s recording at night especially in areas with bright lights that hinders us from viewing other vehicles’ plate numbers.
More information about the product can be found in 70mai’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/70maiPHOfficialStore
Shop at these online stores:
LazMall: https://s.lazada.com.ph/s.is1gm
Shopee Mall (front camera only): https://shp.ee/wbjkvdq
(With rear camera set): https://shp.ee/ga47c4i
