Viofo A329 Dash Cam Review: Is It the Best 4K Dashcam?
The Viofo A329 has emerged as a strong contender in the dash cam market, boasting impressive features that may set it apart from its predecessors and competitors. This review will delve into its specifications, performance comparisons with other models, and practical applications, ensuring that you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Overview of the Viofo A329
The Viofo A329 is available in two configurations: front channel only or front and rear. It features a 4K front resolution with the IMX 678 Sony STARVIS 2 image sensor, capable of recording at 4K 60 frames per second when HDR is off, or 4K 30 frames per second with HDR activated. The rear camera uses the IMX 675 Sony STARVIS 2 sensor, recording at 2K resolution at 30 frames per second.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the design of the Viofo A329 closely resembles that of the A229 Pro. However, there are notable advancements. For instance, the rear cable is now smaller, making it easier to install. The micro SD card slot supports up to 512 GB, and there's a micro HDMI output for connecting to external displays.
The A329 also includes a USB-C port specifically for connecting an SSD, allowing users to utilize external storage of up to 4TB. This is a significant upgrade for those who require more storage than the typical micro SD card can provide.
Performance Comparison
To assess the A329's capabilities, we compared its performance against the A229 Pro, A139 Pro, and A129 Pro under various conditions, especially focusing on license plate capture during both daytime and nighttime.
Daytime Footage
When driving during the day, both the A329 and A139 Pro performed well in capturing license plates. However, the A329 showed a slight edge, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.
Nighttime Footage
During nighttime trials, the A329 demonstrated superior clarity in license plate detection compared to the A229 Pro. For example, the A329 clearly captured a Kia EV9's license plate, while the A229 Pro struggled. This performance was consistent across multiple vehicles, including a Tesla Model 3 and a Subaru, with the A329 consistently outperforming its predecessor.
Download Speeds
One of the standout features of the A329 is its use of Wi-Fi 6 technology. This advancement significantly boosts download speeds. In our tests, the A329 managed to download a 1-minute 4K video in under 10 seconds, outperforming all other models in the comparison.
To quantify the speeds, the A329 achieved an impressive average download speed of 30 MB/s, while the A229 Pro lagged behind at 9.35 MB/s. This makes retrieving footage from the A329 much more efficient, especially for users who frequently access their recordings.
Solid State Drive (SSD) Support
The introduction of SSD support is a game-changer for the A329. By connecting a portable SSD directly to the dash cam, users can store more data without the limitations of traditional micro SD cards. The process of connecting and formatting the SSD is straightforward, and the camera can be configured to save all recordings directly to the SSD.
There are three methods to retrieve video footage from the SSD: connecting it to a computer, plugging it into a smartphone, or accessing it through the dash cam’s Wi-Fi connection. This flexibility enhances the user experience and makes data management more efficient.
Parking Mode Features
The A329 supports multiple parking mode options, which require the purchase of the Viofo HK4 hardwire cable. This allows the camera to record while the vehicle is parked, ensuring that any incidents are captured even when you're not present.
The parking mode includes:
* **Low Bitrate Parking Mode:** This mode allows for continuous recording at a reduced file size, preserving storage space.
* **Time-Lapse Parking Mode:** Records at one frame per second, which is ideal for long periods of monitoring.
* **Buffered Parking Mode:** Captures footage before and after an incident, ensuring critical moments are not missed.
High Dynamic Range (HDR) Capability
The HDR feature on the A329 significantly enhances nighttime video quality. In tests, the A329's HDR capability allowed for better license plate recognition compared to the A229 Pro, especially in low-light conditions. This technology is crucial for users who frequently drive at night and want to ensure they capture clear footage in varying lighting situations.
Voice Control and Bluetooth Remote
The A329 comes equipped with voice command functionality, allowing users to control various features hands-free. This includes commands for taking photos, turning audio recording on and off, and locking video files. Additionally, the optional Bluetooth remote control enhances usability, especially for drivers who may find it difficult to reach the camera's buttons while driving.
Pros and Cons of the Viofo A329
Pros:
* 4K 60fps video resolution.
* Improved license plate capture.
* Wi-Fi 6 for faster video downloads.
* SSD support for extensive storage capacity.
* Lower current draw in parking mode for extended recording time.
Cons:
* No three-channel support compared to some competitors.
* Lacks cloud or cellular functionality.
* Limited impact detection features.
* No HDR at 60 frames per second.
Final Thoughts
The Viofo A329 stands out in the market with its impressive video quality, innovative features, and user-friendly design. While it may not be a revolutionary upgrade for current A229 Pro users, it offers significant improvements in video performance and storage capabilities that make it a worthy investment for those looking to upgrade from older models.
If you're in the market for a high-quality dash cam that excels in both daytime and nighttime conditions, the Viofo A329 should be at the top of your list. However, if you already own the A229 Pro, consider whether the incremental improvements justify an upgrade.