The Mini 0903 (Nano Q) dash cam is a new 2016 model in the Mini camera series. The Mini 0903 is manufactured by the Chinese company MegTech. While all of the previous Mini cameras were based on Ambarella processors, the Mini 0903 is based on the Novatek NT96655 processor. The camera has uses a high quality Sony IMX322 CMOS sensor.
The Mini 0903 records 1080p video @30fps, with a high bit rate of 20 Mbps. Video quality has been mixed with this camera. Some owners indicate video quality is very good during the day and good at night. However others with early production models have had focus issues and grainy night video which is discouraging. We will update this review as more information on video quality becomes available.
The Mini 0903 has some unique features when compared to other cameras in Mini Series including:
- Uses a super capacitor instead of a battery, which is a better choice when running a dash cam in hot environments (batteries tend to swell / expand in the heat)
- Comes with a non-buffered parking mode, which will records at a very low frame rate (like time lapse photography). When an impact is detected by the G-sensor, the frame rate increases to 30fps for 15 seconds after the incident
- Has Wi-Fi to view footage, download videos, and change settings via an app on your iOS or Android device
- Comes with a CPL filter magnetic mount to reduce glare. The CPL filter is sold separately
The Mini 0903 comes with 1.5″ screen and G-sensor. The GPS mount is optional. The Mini 0903 is the smallest Mini series camera at only 66mm x 33mm x 40mm. The small size and form factor make this a very discreet camera which is amazing given it comes with a screen and built in super capacitors. Build quality is average, not the best of the series.
Once again, the biggest question with the Mini 0903 is reliability. A review of our Mini Series Forum highlights reliability problems in previous models. Unfortunately some of the early testers of this camera had issues with focus and GPS. As more people purchase this camera, reliability performance will become clearer. We would like to thank our member Sunny who created a detailed review for this camera on our forum.
Size Comparison
Our member Sunny has shared some pictures of the Mini 0903 (left) compared to the Mini 0826 (right).
Known problems
Out of Focus
Some of the pre-production / early models have had issues with the focus of the video. The manufacturer claims the latest models has an improved lens base to prevent this problem.
Some owners have manually refocused the lens with some success. Our member blake provided these step by step instructions on focusing the lens.
GPS Locking
Some owners have had issues with no GPS lock at all while using the optional GPS base. This could be do to poor connectivity between the camera and the GPS base.
GPS Interference
Some owners have experienced GPS interference from the Mini 0903 (i.e. impacts the GPS receiving on smartphones, navigation systems).
Mounting the Camera
Our member lacibaci has shared these photos of the Mini 0903 mounted in a car.
Sample Videos
Day Video
Night Video
Should I Purchase?
The Mini 0903 is quite different than the other Mini Series cameras. It is the smallest, has a super capacitor, WiFi and unbuffered parking. Price is quite reasonable and overall the camera offers a lot of features for the money.
However some of the initial buyers have indicated focus and GPS problems with their cameras. Reliability has always been the biggest problem with the mini series cameras so we will keep an eye on owners feedback regarding the Mini 0903. If all the early issues are worked out, the Mini 0903 could turn out to be a good buy. Best bet is to see what other owners are saying at our Mini 0903 forum as well.
Firmware
WARNING! MAKING CHANGES TO YOUR FIRMWARE ARE PERFORMED AT YOUR OWN RISK. WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE TO YOUR DASH CAM AS A RESULT OF THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
Firmware Update Instructions
- Format the MicroSD Card
- Copy the firmware file (.bin) onto the root of the MicroSD Card
- You may need to rename the firmware file to firmware.bin
- Insert the MicroSD Card into the camera and turn on the camera
- After the firmware update is completed be sure to delete the files or you will be prompted to update again
Latest Firmware
- mini0903-20160329-test20M.7z (20 Mbps bit rate)
- mini0903-20160329-test16M.7z (16 Mbps bit rate)
User Manual
The English User Manual can be downloaded here.
Specifications
| Spec | Mini 0903 / Nano Q |
|---|---|
| Price | $90 |
| Overall Rating | 6.7/10 |
| Price Rating | 8 |
| Channels | 1 |
| Channel Setup | Front |
| Form Factor | Cylindrical |
| Front Resolution | 1080p |
| Spec | Mini 0903 / Nano Q |
|---|---|
| Parking Mode | Non-Buffered |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| GPS | Optional |
| Apps | Windows, Android, iOS |
| Cloud Connectivity | No |
| Voice Commands | No |
| Spec | Mini 0903 / Nano Q |
|---|---|
| Processor | Novatek NT96655 |
| Video Format | MOV |
| Compression | H.264 |
| Screen Size | 1.5" |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Mount | Adhesive |
| Power Supply | 5V |
| Battery Type | Capacitor |
| Spec | Mini 0903 / Nano Q |
|---|---|
| SD Card Type | MicroSD |
| Max Card Size | 64GB |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to 60°C |
| Swivel | No |
| Country | China |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| Release Date | Mar 2016 |
| Spec | Mini 0903 / Nano Q |
|---|---|
| Day Video | 8 |
| Night Video | 5 |
| Reliability | 5 |
| Discreetness | 8 |
| Support | 6 |
| Spec | Mini 0903 / Nano Q |
|---|---|
| CMOS | Sony Exmor IMX322 |
| Max Resolution | 1920 x 1080p |
| FPS | 30 |
| Bitrate | 20.0 Mbps |
| Viewing Angle | 135° |
| Dimensions | 66 x 33 x 40 |
| HDR | No |
Published: April 28, 2016
Updated: May 1, 2016
Mini 0903 / Nano Q
The Mini 0903 has the potential to be a great cam if reliability is good. Initial quality problems raise a concern.
Product SKU: Mini 0903
Product Brand: Mini
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 90
Price Valid Until: 2023-01-01
Product In-Stock: SoldOut
6.7