Pathinglek FHD

Pathinglek FHD

The Pathinglek FHD is a Chinese single channel dash camera released in Jul 2018. The camera also goes by the model number YR-1. Based on trademark ownership, the manufacturer of this camera appears to be the Shenzhen Yuanchuangjin Science & Technology company. This dash cam is surprisingly popular on Amazon and has many positive reviews.

Unfortunately the manufacturer does not disclose the processor and CMOS sensor for this camera. However, given the $30 price point, we suspect the camera is using entry level electronics.

Video Quality

The Pathinglek FHD records 1080p video at 30fps with an average bitrate of 8 Mbps. Video quality during the day is below average and night quality is very poor. The video has a bit of a blur to it and is a bit choppy. In some cases the video has a wavy quality.

Features

The camera has a 3″ screen and g-sensor but does not come with GPS or WiFi. This is expected given it is a $30 basic dash cam. While the Pathinglek FHD provides non-buffered parking mode if you hardwire the dash cam to your vehicle, we do not recommend this due to its poor performance in the heat (see known problems).

On the positive side the camera comes with both a suction and adhesive mount. The camera can swivel 360° with either mount to record interactions at your side windows such as police traffic stops. The size of the camera is small at 86 x 50 x 36mm but the hanging form factor and silver lens makes it difficult to do a stealthy install.

The build quality is below average and the camera appears to be cheaply made. Many owners complain of cameras falling off the mount and the mounts breaking. Another negative is that the camera does not come with audio error notifications, only screen error notifications.

Support

From a support perspective, Pathinglek does not even have a website and there have never been any firmware updates for this camera. Beyond the 30 day return policy from Amazon you will be on your own.

Note that many Amazon buyers indicate that if you provide a 5-star review for this camera, the seller will send a free microSD card. This unethical practice is likely influencing Amazon reviews.

Known Problems

Damage due to heat

Numerous owners have complained of the camera being damaged on hot days. The pictures below show the camera melting / warping due to the heat.

Pathinglek FHD Heat
Pathinglek FHD Heat
Pathinglek FHD Melted Case 3

Sample Videos

Day video at 5:22, Night video at 2:06

Should I Purchase?

The Pathinglek FHD may seem like a bargain at $30 but there are too many negatives with this camera. The video quality is poor, build quality is low and support is non-existent.

We suspect the free SD card in exchange for positive reviews has influenced the Amazon rating for this camera. The only positives for this camera are the low $30 price tag and the ability to easily return to Amazon within 30 days if you are not satisfied.

Overall, we suggest spending a bit more for a better dash cam.

Specifications

Detailed Specifications

Read Review
Camera Type Single Channel
Form Factor Hanging - Rectangular
Country China
Processor Unknown
CMOS Front Unknown
CMOS Rear N/A
Channels 1
Screen 3"
GPS No
G-Sensor Yes
Wi-Fi No
Parking Mode Non-Buffered
Lock Files Auto or Button
Max Resolution Front 1920×1080p
Front Frames Per Second 30
Max Bitrate Front (Mbps) 8
Max Resolution Rear N/A
Rear Frames Per Second N/A
Max Bitrate Rear (Mbps) N/A
Video Format AVI
Compression H.264
Diagonal Viewing Angle Front 170°
SD Card Type MicroSD
Max Size (Spec) 32GB
Max Size (User) 32GB
Size Front (mm) 86 x 50 x 36
Size Rear (mm) N/A
Mount Adhesive and Suction
Power Supply 5V
Operating Temp -10°C to 60°C
Battery Battery - Unknown mAh
Error Notification Screen
Swivel (To Record Side Windows) Yes
Apps None
Cloud Connectivity No
Release Date Jul 2018
Unique Features None
Advantages Low price
Disadvantages Poor picture quality
Low build quality
Low reliability
SD Card in exchange for 5-star reviews
Final Word Low priced camera with poor video quality. Camera is cheaply made and not worth the money. Consider the AUKEY DRA5 instead if you are on a budget.

Published: Oct 11, 2020

Pathinglek FHD - DashCamTalk
Pathinglek FHD

The Pathinglek FHD is a low priced camera with poor video quality. Camera is cheaply made and not worth the money.

Product SKU: Pathinglek FHD

Product Brand: Pathinglek

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 30

Price Valid Until: 2023-01-01

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.5