Looking for an all-around dash cam that feels more like a virtual assistant? Your days of wondering “What is the best dash cam?” are over. The Vantrue Nexus 5 is an up-and-coming crowd-pleaser, hailed for its four-channel recording system and additional protection features.
Whether you’re looking for a dash cam for personal use, as a rideshare driver, or for a fleet, the Vantrue N5 offers solutions beyond industry standards.
Learn more about this flagship Vantrue dash cam, why it’s the best choice for personal and commercial drivers, and how you can make the most of it in our guide below.
What Sets the Vantrue Nexus 5 Apart?
Unlike your run-of-the-mill dash cam, the Vantrue Nexus 5 is among the first to feature a four-channel recording system. It features a front and rear camera, along with two interior-facing lenses to record both cabins.
The front camera records in 2.7K resolution, while the three other channels record in 1080p. The Sony STARVIS 2 ultra-low-light sensor markedly improves its night vision capabilities and can even read license plates from a distance.
Beyond the multi-lens hardware, the Vantrue Nexus 5 proves an ideal driving partner, featuring built-in GPS, dual-band WiFi connectivity, and parking surveillance. It features customizable motion detection zones to focus on vulnerable areas (such as the trunk of the car) and avoid false alerts from passersby.
As a whole, what sets the Vantrue Nexus 5 apart is its comprehensive coverage. Its advanced technology and multiple features make it the perfect match for drivers wanting maximum protection.
Expert Reviews: What Industry Voices Say
In the vehicular tech world, the Vantrue N5 is already making waves. PCWorld praised its four-channel setup, boldly claiming that it’s “the most complete coverage of any dash cam system we’ve ever seen.” They further describe the device as “state-of-the-art,” and hail its “superb night captures.”
A Gadgethead review noted that the Vantrue N5 “delivers so much more than just a dash cam, with a bunch of extra parking and monitoring features to provide you with even greater visibility across your car.”
Despite the unit being larger than most industry-standard dash cams, the extra wiring that comes with the N5 is worth it. Brett Helling of Ridester also applauds the setup process: “Actually, setting it up and installing the unit was really easy. It’s a simple process that only took me a matter of minutes.”
As for its camera quality, Dashboard Camera Reviews says that it “gives you essentially a 360-degree view of the car’s surroundings. No more blind spots!” This all-around view contributes greatly to safer driving. In fact, according to a NIOSH study, 44% of responders reported fewer instances of distracted driving after installing a dash cam.
While the N5 has received some criticism for its heavy storage needs, experts emphasize that these are minor trade-offs, given the N5’s capabilities.
Regarding whether to invest in the N5, PCWorld reviewer Jon Jacobi states, “There’s no dash cam combo on the market that will do a better job capturing events in and around your car.” As far as industry-level reviews have gone, the Vantrue Nexus 5 has been consistently earning stamps of approval.
Consumer Opinions: Real-World Experiences
Consumer sentiment on social media platforms and forums echoes that of the experts. Here’s what dash cam reviews have reflected.
Drivers on Reddit have been pleasantly “surprised by the sharpness of the images” and how well the N5 captures license plate numbers. Many are also pleased with the camera’s day-to-night recording, with the N5 handling sunsets, glare, and headlights phenomenally.
Other users have also praised the N5’s build quality, which “gives a feeling of robustness and quality.” Many report a simple and straightforward setup process, with most claiming it takes only about 30 minutes to install the device.
Some Redditors have tested the N5 in harsh conditions, including during the hot summers. One driver claims that the unit survived a 40ºC drive and that it “performed great, looping all day despite the high temperatures.”
Rideshare drivers are among the Vantrue customers who love the N5. Many commend the 24/7 parking surveillance mode and motion detection, as they provide peace of mind when parking overnight. In particular, Uber and Lyft drivers claim that the N5 is “amazing for interior coverage.” The N5 is a godsend for monitoring potential vandals and unruly customers.
While the N5 does require considerable power draw from your vehicle (an easy fix with an additional battery source or the OBD-II power cable), the overall sentiment regarding this state-of-the-art dash cam has received an overwhelmingly positive response from everyday drivers.
User Tips and Recommendations
As a standalone device, this Vantrue dash cam already packs a punch. But there are ways to get the most out of the N5.
For example, you can maximize storage with a high-endurance and high-speed microSD card with a class rating of at least 10 U3. Redditors and seasoned N5 users have recommended a recording load of at least 256 GB, though the N5 can support up to 512 GB.
Install the front unit slightly lower on the windshield to get the best view. If you drive during the day and get a lot of glare, consider purchasing the Vantrue polarizing filter to cut down reflections. Keep your device secure with the included pry tool and adhesive tape.
If you’re using the N5 to surveil the area when parked overnight, the OBD-II power cable can keep the camera on while the ignition stays off. Park in a quiet area where motion detection works well.
For frequent or professional drivers, consider purchasing the wireless remote to manually lock and save clips or tweak settings without manual intervention.
Final Verdict: Is this Vantrue Dash Cam Worth It?
The expert and consumer praise the Vantrue Nexus 5 is undeniable, and it’s ideal for drivers wanting a comprehensive protection solution. As PCWorld notes, the N5 is clearly one of the best dash cams out there, and it’s “feature-laden and state-of-the-art” without any coverage gaps.
While upfront costs are high, the investment pays off by means of monitoring passenger activity and covering every angle for total surveillance.
If you’re keen on protecting your ride and want a trusted dash cam, the Vantrue Nexus 5 is for you. Make your worthwhile investment now with Vantrue!
