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Our own camera
This is the dash cam we own and run ourselves. It is an older design, and newer cameras beat it on resolution, but it remains one of the easiest dash cams to set up and live with.
Updated October 2026 · We own this camera and plan to publish footage from it on our YouTube channel.
The camera we run
A touchscreen camera with Alexa and Emergency SOS. Older than the others here, but simple to live with.
The sharper alternative
4K front and 2K rear with Sony STARVIS 2 sensors on both: the sweet spot of price and picture.
| Feature | Nextbase 522GW | VIOFO A229 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Front video | 1440p at 30 fps or 1080p at 60 fps, 140° view | 4K at 30 fps, 140° view |
| Rear camera | Optional plug-in rear module | 2K (1440p), 160° view |
| Cabin camera | Optional cabin-view module | Optional 1080p infrared (3-channel version) |
| Front sensor | Not listed | Sony STARVIS 2 IMX678 |
| Storage | microSD (U3 card recommended) | microSD up to 512 GB |
| Parking mode | Intelligent Parking Mode (impact-triggered) | Buffered; needs VIOFO HK4 hardwire kit |
| Wi-Fi / GPS | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, 10 Hz GPS | Wi-Fi and GPS built in |
| Extras | Alexa, Emergency SOS, touchscreen, polarising filter | Voice control, HDR, 2.4-inch screen |
| Price | Check price | Check price |
It is easy. The 3-inch touchscreen means you can change settings and replay a clip on the camera itself, without opening a phone app.
Emergency SOS. After a serious crash, the camera can pass your location to the emergency services through your paired phone if you do not respond (a Nextbase subscription may apply). Few dash cams offer anything like it.
It grows with you. Nextbase sells plug-in modules that add a rear-window or cabin view to the same camera.
Resolution. 1440p was the top of the range when this camera launched. Today 4K cameras with Sony STARVIS 2 sensors are widely available and record more detail, which matters most at night.
Rear video. With a rear module attached and the front set to 1440p, the rear view records at 720p. Dedicated two-camera kits do better behind the car.
No. It records at 1440p at 30 frames per second, or 1080p at 60 frames per second.
Not in the box. Nextbase sells optional plug-in modules that add a rear-window or cabin view.
Yes, Alexa is built in and works through the Alexa app on your paired phone.
CarCamsOnline on YouTube
Accidents, near misses, bad driving, wild weather and the odd things you only see on the road. Our channel shows real dash cam clips and names the camera that filmed each one. We need your videos: caught something on your dash cam? Send it in and we will feature the best clips on the channel, with credit.
