Large Touch Screen Dual Dash Cams have become very popular in 2013.  While we are not fond of these large cameras, there are people who do want a large screen for their dash cam.  We have just added a detailed FAQ for the Smarti 3500HD DVR.  This camera is marketed as 720p for the front and 480p for the rear.  Unfortunately the camera records at a disappointing 688p for the front camera.  It also has a number of other issues including gaps between video files and audio problems.  Not a camera we would recommend.  Thanks to our member Mtz for providing the information for this review.  His thread can be found in the forum.

We have just completed an FAQ for the Lukas LK-7900 Ace manufactured by the Korean company Qrontech.  This camera was recently released and it has a great combination of features including:

• SDXC support up to 128GB
• Wide operating temperature range (-20°C to 80°C)
• Threaded 37mm lens to attach various filters
• Internal GPS and G-sensor

Video quality is quite good, especially with the latest firmware updates.  Note that some of the initial night videos did not have the greatest quality.  Another positive is that Qrontech has been active in releasing firmware updates to address issues brought up by users.  Most of the owners of this camera are quite pleased making this a decent option if you are looking for a premium camera.  For more information check out the FAQ and the Lukas Forum.

The DR32 dash cam, sometimes referred to as the 808 #18 DR32 DVR, was recently released.  This camera’s excellent video quality and $100 price point made it a very popular camera right away.  Unfortunately many early purchasers complained of excessive audio distortion.  The manufacturer quickly released a firmware update that improved audio quality dramatically (but it is not perfect).  However, some owners now complain that the camera randomly locks up or freezes after the firmware update.  This camera has a lot of potential given the video quality as long as you are aware of the issues before purchasing.  For more information check out the FAQ and the 808 Forum.

The DVR-XX7 series of Chinese cameras are very popular (perhaps the most popular) low cost dash cams.  In early 2013, the DVR-207 was launched.  It has the same external case as the DVR-027 and utilizes the same Zoran Coach 12MDV ZR364249BGCG processor.  Owners have reported that this version eliminates any gaps between video clips.  There have been issues with the power connector interfering with the radio but the seller claims these have now been resolved.  For more information check out the FAQ and the DVR-XX7 Forum.

We have just launched a Dash Cam Processor page.  The processor or chip is the brains of a dash cam and plays an important role for video quality.  If you disassemble your dash cam, you will likely see a processor made from one of these manufacturers:

• Ambarella
• Texas Instruments
• Novatek
• CSR-Zoran
• Syntek
• iCATCH
• Allwinner
• SQ Technology

Since it is not easy to find detailed information on many of these processors, this page is still a work in progress.  We will update it as more information becomes available.  Note that while the processor is important, other components such as the CMOS sensor, lens and firmware can make a dramatic difference in video quality.

We have just added a detailed FAQ for the GS8000.  The GS8000 was released this year and comes with an Ambarella A2S70 processor.  For approximately $110, this appears to be a decent value for a GPS enabled camera.  The main negatives are average night quality (at best) and some owners complain of GPS problems.  Overall many owners are happy with this camera.