CDV300X

The CDV300X dash cam is a new camera released in 2015 by the Chinese Company TCL Digital Technologies.  This is a very discreet camera with a similar shape to the very popular B40 / A118 dash cam.  However the CDV300X has some improvements over the B40.  The CDV300X uses the Ambarella A7LA50 processor rather than the Novatek NT96650 used in the B40.  The CMOS sensor is the Aptina AR0330CS.  This processor / CMOS combination provides better night video quality than the B40.

Overall video quality during the day is very good and night quality is good.  The CDV300X records 1296p at 30f/s with an average bit rate of approximately 15,000kpbs. The camera comes with a 1.5″ screen and built in GPS. Build quality is better than the B40 and the design allows for the camera to be mounted higher on the windshield then the B40.   The CDV300X is pushed up onto the mount while the B40 the camera is pushed down onto the mount (B40 requires some space above it to mount / unmount while the CDV300X does not).  Also the cradle has the USB port on the side which helps with mounting high on the windshield.

The size of the camera is 87mm x 59mm x 41mm without the car mount and 107mm x 59mm x 46 mm with the car mount.  This is not the smallest camera and is slightly bigger than the B40.  However, like the B40 the form factor makes this camera quite discreet when mounted in a car with usually just the lens visible from the outside.

Other Models

The CDV300X is part of a CDV300 model series manufactured by TCL.  The following table summarizes the differences:

Street Guardian uses the same chassis for their  SG7LA50G model (produced by our member jokiin)

Size Comparison

Our member jokiin provided some comparison pictures of the SG7LA50G model against the B40, Mini 0803 and Panorama S.

Known problems

This camera has recently been released and there is limited information on reliability.

Mounting the Camera

CDV300X Teardown

Thanks to our member Markoos who provided internal photos of the CDV300X,

Sample Videos

Day Video

Night Video

Should I Purchase?

The CDV300X is a great improvement over the B40.  Better night quality, improved build quality and built in GPS are excellent changes.  While not having some of the high end features such as parking mode and WiFi, the CDV300X does the basics very well.  Reliability is unknown at this point though.

Price is higher than the B40 but if you are looking for a decent discreet camera, the CDV300X is good.  Alternatively, consider the Mini 0805 which uses the same Ambarella processor, is discreet and costs only $90.

See what other owners have to say about the CDV300X in the forum.

Specifications

Published: January 23, 2015

Updated: March 2, 2015