Julian23
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- Joined
- Nov 16, 2016
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- Dash Cam
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After nearly two months of daily use the Vantrue S1 Pro Max has proven to be a very solid dual-channel 4K dashcam.
While the image quality is important, the overall reliability is also important. The S1 Pro Max delivers this and makes it a good "partner" for everyday driving.
The S1 Pro Max feels premium from the start. The front unit is compact with a clean design and a swivel lens that makes positioning very easy. The rear camera is IP67 waterproof, which opens up the option to mount it outside the vehicle for cleaner, glare-free footage. The included mounts have either one or two hinges and can be swapped depending on the mounting location. Unfortunately, the mount does have more movement because of the hinge. Other users reported some issues with vibrations.
The front unit is firmly attached to the windshield and will not move or vibrate. No suction cup mount available.
A CPL is recommended to minimize reflections on the windshield. The CPL is an optional accessory.
Oncoming traffic can be captured as well without issues.
The rear camera does not disappoint.
Even on the Autobahn or highways, plates can be captured on the front and rear.
Nighttime: Performance at night is good. The STARVIS 2 sensors, combined with HDR, manage to balance exposure and keep plates visible under headlights or streetlights. There are still situations where reflections on wet surfaces or direct glare from strong LEDs can make things harder, but overall plate capture is definitely good.
The image does have noise, but the plate can be identified. That's all that matters.
Heat handling has also been good, with no shutdowns or corrupted files during hot summer use. I tried my best to find the limits of the S1 Pro Max while exposing it to 38°C heat, but it didn't care.
The supercapacitor makes it more durable compared to battery-based dashcams.
So far, I have no big complaints with the S1 Pro Max. Only smaller things that are not deal breakers for me.
A negative point is the slightly less firm 12V socket, compared to the older version.
The Vantrue S1 Pro Max combines image quality, LTE compatibility, and a waterproof rear cam in a package that feels balanced. It has been stable, reliable, and delivered the kind of plate captures and low-light performance that I expect from a dual 4K dashcam. If you are looking for a dual-channel solution that does almost everything right without breaking into the ultra-premium price range, this is currently one of the best allrounders available. Especially with the option to add the LT01 for cloud functions.
While the image quality is important, the overall reliability is also important. The S1 Pro Max delivers this and makes it a good "partner" for everyday driving.
Features
- Dual 4K HDR recording (front & rear)
- Dual Sony STARVIS 2 IMX678 sensors
- Vantrue Intelligence for smarter driving (AI-based collision, lane, blind-spot alerts)
- Exclusive PlatePix Technology
- Compatible with LTE Module (LT01)
- IP67 water-resistance for the rear camera
- 5 GHz high-speed WiFi
- Smart voice control
- 24/7 parking mode
- Supports up to 1 TB microSD
Recording Resolutions
- Front only: 3840×2160P (4K) @30 FPS
- Front + Rear: 3840×2160P + 3840×2160P @30 FPS
Build and Installation
The S1 Pro Max feels premium from the start. The front unit is compact with a clean design and a swivel lens that makes positioning very easy. The rear camera is IP67 waterproof, which opens up the option to mount it outside the vehicle for cleaner, glare-free footage. The included mounts have either one or two hinges and can be swapped depending on the mounting location. Unfortunately, the mount does have more movement because of the hinge. Other users reported some issues with vibrations.The front unit is firmly attached to the windshield and will not move or vibrate. No suction cup mount available.
Image Quality
Daytime: Dual 4K HDR footage is crisp, and colors are on the more vibrant side. Plates are captured reliably at city speeds and on the highway, especially when PlatePix is enabled.A CPL is recommended to minimize reflections on the windshield. The CPL is an optional accessory.
Oncoming traffic can be captured as well without issues.
The rear camera does not disappoint.
Even on the Autobahn or highways, plates can be captured on the front and rear.
Nighttime: Performance at night is good. The STARVIS 2 sensors, combined with HDR, manage to balance exposure and keep plates visible under headlights or streetlights. There are still situations where reflections on wet surfaces or direct glare from strong LEDs can make things harder, but overall plate capture is definitely good.
The image does have noise, but the plate can be identified. That's all that matters.
AI and LTE Features
The Vantrue Intelligence system brings AI driving alerts such as collision warnings, lane departure, and blind spot alerts. These can be adjusted or turned off if not needed. With the optional LTE module, you get live notifications, remote access, and cloud-style functionality.Parking Mode and Stability
The S1 Pro Max does offer buffered parking mode. It records 15 seconds before and 30 seconds after an event, which helps provide context for impacts or suspicious activity.Heat handling has also been good, with no shutdowns or corrupted files during hot summer use. I tried my best to find the limits of the S1 Pro Max while exposing it to 38°C heat, but it didn't care.
The supercapacitor makes it more durable compared to battery-based dashcams.
So far, I have no big complaints with the S1 Pro Max. Only smaller things that are not deal breakers for me.
A negative point is the slightly less firm 12V socket, compared to the older version.
Pros
- True dual 4K HDR recording with STARVIS 2 sensors
- Reliable plate capture with PlatePix
- Waterproof rear camera for versatile mounting
- LTE support adds valuable cloud features
- Buffered parking mode
- Strong build quality and stable operation
- Good audio quality
- The 12V power supply is less firm in the socket than older models
- Rear glass reflections can affect footage if mounted inside (no CPL available)
- The G sensor is very sensitive. Even on low settings
- LED is blinking while recording instead of glowing solid. It can be slightly distracting, but it can be disabled.
Final Thoughts
The Vantrue S1 Pro Max combines image quality, LTE compatibility, and a waterproof rear cam in a package that feels balanced. It has been stable, reliable, and delivered the kind of plate captures and low-light performance that I expect from a dual 4K dashcam. If you are looking for a dual-channel solution that does almost everything right without breaking into the ultra-premium price range, this is currently one of the best allrounders available. Especially with the option to add the LT01 for cloud functions.