Thinkware U1000 Plus Review: It’s Better & Worse?

Featuring an in-depth look at the Thinkware U1000 Plus dashcam, this review explores the improvements and drawbacks of this latest model. Delving into its enhanced features and areas that may fall short, readers can weigh the pros and cons to determine if it’s a worthwhile investment.

Introduction

Vortex Radar, known for their in-depth reviews of radar detectors and dash cams, recently published a video review on the Thinkware U1000 Plus. This successor to the original U1000 boasts key improvements, including HDR support, enhanced night vision capabilities, and a more budget-friendly price tag. However, the U1000 Plus comes with its own set of compromises, primarily in the form of lower-quality image sensors compared to its predecessor.

Key Features of the Thinkware U1000 Plus

In Vortex Radar’s video review, several notable features of the Thinkware U1000 Plus were highlighted:

  • HDR Enhancement: The U1000 Plus incorporates HDR technology to improve the clarity of footage, especially in low-light conditions, allowing for better license plate capture at night.

  • Auto HDR Functionality: With an auto HDR feature, the U1000 Plus automatically switches on HDR mode during nighttime recording and deactivates it during daytime recording, optimizing image quality based on ambient lighting.

  • Resolution Discrepancy: While the front camera maintains 4K recording capabilities for crisp and detailed footage, the rear camera’s resolution has been downgraded to 1080p, significantly reducing the video quality for drivers relying on rear-facing footage.

  • Field of View: The U1000 Plus offers a narrower field of view at 135° compared to its predecessor’s 150°, resulting in a slightly restricted frame capture range.

Is the U1000 Plus a Better or Worse Choice?

The question that arises from Vortex Radar’s review is: Is the Thinkware U1000 Plus truly an upgraded version of the original U1000, or has it taken a step back in some aspects?

Pros of the Thinkware U1000 Plus

  • Enhanced HDR technology for improved night vision
  • Lower price point compared to the original U1000
  • Auto HDR functionality for seamless day-to-night recording transition

Cons of the Thinkware U1000 Plus

  • Compromised image sensors leading to reduced video quality
  • Rear camera resolution downgrade to 1080p without Sony Starvis sensor
  • Narrower field of view compared to the previous model

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Thinkware U1000 Plus offers significant upgrades in terms of HDR support, enhanced night vision, and a more affordable price point, it falls short in key areas such as image sensor quality and rear camera resolution. Drivers seeking top-notch video recording capabilities may find the compromises in video quality and field of view concerning when considering the U1000 Plus.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

  1. Is the U1000 Plus worth the upgrade from the original U1000?
  2. How does the image quality of the U1000 Plus compare to other dash cams in the market?
  3. Can the HDR feature of the U1000 Plus effectively capture license plates at night?
  4. Does the narrower field of view affect the overall usability of the U1000 Plus for recording purposes?
  5. What are the key differences between the U1000 Plus and its predecessor in terms of performance and features?