Question about the polarising filter

[annieb]

I have just received my new 322GW dash cam but before I take it out of the box, I have a question about the polarising filter which came with my bundle.

I understand that the filters which come with the 522GW and 622GW models are removeable or have I got this wrong? Is the filter for my 322GW removeable or is it a case of, once it's stuck down it's permanent? I haven't taken anything out of the packet yet (in case I want to return) so I can't see what's involved.

I am concerned about how the filter might perform in the dark and wondered if there is an option to take the filter off temporarily.

 

[annieb]

Update: I have been in touch with Nextbase who have advised me that the filter for the 322GW has to be stuck on whereas the one on the 522GW can twist off.

Does anyone have experience with using the filter in the dark because it won't be possible to keep removing it and replacing it on the 322GW?

 

[Nigel]

I have not used a 322GW polariser, but in general, the positive effect of a polariser is to remove most of the reflections from the glass, which can be important if you have a car with strong reflections, and the negative is that it doubles the motion blur, which can be an issue for reading plates during the winter. If you have polarised sunglasses, they work the same way, and have the same effect for your eyes.

So try the camera, if you don't see bad reflections in the image then leave it off, if reflections are an issue on your vehicle then install it.
Almost nobody removes and refits a CPL every day, it can be worth removing it for the winter and fitting it in the spring, but most people just install it and leave it, especially on the better cameras, but on the 322GW, I would leave it off unless there is a reflection problem.

 

[annieb]

@Nigel

Many thanks for the advice. I didn't know about the motion blur. I will try it without and see how I get on.