The Nextbase 622GW is a single channel dash camera released August 2020. This is the flagship camera for the Chinese manufacturer Nextbase. While this is a 1-channel 4K camera, Nextbase sells an optional 1080p rear camera (rear window, rear or cabin) for an extra $100.
The 622GW is based on an Ambarella H22 processor and Omnivision OS08A10 CMOS sensor. Both of these components are high quality and we are seeing them in more dash cams.
Video Quality
The 622GW records 2160p (4K) video at 30fps with a very high average bitrate of 50 Mbps. Video quality during the day is very good and night quality is good as well. However we have seen inconsistent video quality across different cameras. Some have good quality at night while others are less impressive.
Also the color reproduction in some environments is excellent while other times it appears off or dull. Watch a number of Youtube videos to see the inconsistent video quality. Could be due to early production runs / early firmware.
Features
The 622GW is loaded with features. It has a 3″ touchscreen, which works well, g-sensor and built in GPS. The camera comes with WiFi and Bluetooth to connect with your Smartphone using the MyNextbase Connect app on Android and iOS. Unfortunately both apps get very low scores with numerous complaints about connectivity and bugs.
Beyond the basics, Nextbase offers a lot of unique features:
- Alexa integration – can access Alexa via the dash cam (mostly a gimmick since if you wanted to use Alexa, could just use the app on your phone)
- Emergency SOS – paid subscription service that will call an ambulance in case of a crash (first 12 months are free)
- what3words – 3 words that give your location within 3 meters that can be provided to emergency services. Not all emergency services (i.e. 911) use what3words so you will need to confirm if this available in your area
- Built-in polarizing filter
- Free cloud capability (note this is dependent on getting the MyNextbase app working with your Smartphone)
While the camera has some interesting features above, it missed the boat on a few key items. The 622GW only provides non-buffered parking mode. Most premium dash cams offer buffered parking mode that records before the event, during the event and after the event. The 622GW records after the event only.
The next issue is the camera uses a lithium ion battery instead of a supercapacitor which is rare for a premium camera. While we typically prefer capacitors over batteries, some batteries have had good reliability and can be relatively easily replaced by the user. 70mai is an example of a good battery in a dash cam. It is reliable but may die after a couple of years, however can be replaced without soldering (see picture below).
Nextbase opted for a cheap lithium-ion battery we typically see in low cost dash cams as shown above. We have seen this type of battery swell in hot environments. Not surprising the recommended operating temperature for the 622GW is -20°C to 45°C (see manual snapshot below).
Most other dash cams have an operating temp max of 60°C, 70°C or even 80°C. 45°C is extremely disappointing.
The camera comes with both a suction and adhesive mount which is a nice touch. The camera can swivel but it may not be enough to record interactions at the driver or passenger windows depending on how it is installed. Another positive is that the camera comes with audio and screen error notifications.
The 622GW is a medium sized camera with dimensions of 94 x 53 x 45mm. This dash cam is not the most discreet given its silver color, protruding lens and size. Overall build quality is good.
Support
Nextbase has good support and is responsive to questions. They also provide firmware updates which is a positive as well.
Internal Photos
Internal photos of the 622GW can be viewed in this PDF.
Known Problems
Since the 622GW has recently been released, there have been no widespread problems reported.
Sample Videos
Given the inconsistent video quality we suggest you check out numerous videos before purchasing. One of our members Paul Iddon did a review on our forum with videos. We also suggest checking out our 622GW forum where owners have posted some videos and comments. Finally Youtube can provide a variety of videos in different driving scenarios.
Should I Purchase
The Nextbase 622GW is a feature loaded camera and is one of the highest priced single channel dash cams currently available. While video quality is good, there appears to be inconsistency depending on the camera.
The bigger concerns are the poor app (read the app reviews before purchasing), use of a battery instead of capacitor, 45°C max operating temperature and no buffered parking mode. Disappointing for a $400 camera. The fact that the rear camera is another $100 adds to the sticker shock.
If you are looking for a 4K dash cam, we suggest looking at more discreet and affordable dash cams.
User Manual
The English user manual can be downloaded here.
Specifications
Detailed Specifications
| Read Review |  |
| Camera Type | Single Channel |
| Form Factor | Hanging - Rectangular |
| Country | China |
| Processor | Ambarella H22 |
| CMOS Front | Omnivision OS08A10 |
| CMOS Rear | N/A |
| Channels | 1 |
| Screen | 3" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| GPS | Yes |
| G-Sensor | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Parking Mode | Non-Buffered |
| Lock Files | Auto or Button |
| Max Resolution Front | 3840×2160p (4K) |
| Front Frames Per Second | 30 |
| Max Bitrate Front (Mbps) | 50 |
| Max Resolution Rear | N/A |
| Rear Frames Per Second | N/A |
| Max Bitrate Rear (Mbps) | N/A |
| Video Format | MP4 |
| Compression | H.264 |
| Diagonal Viewing Angle Front | 140° |
| Diagonal Viewing Angle Rear | N/A |
| SD Card Type | MicroSD |
| Max Size (Spec) | 128GB |
| Max Size (User) | 128GB |
| Size Front (mm) | 94 x 53 x 45 |
| Size Rear (mm) | N/A |
| Mount | Adhesive and Suction |
| Power Supply | 5V |
| Operating Temp | -20° to 45°C |
| Battery | 370 mAh |
| Error Notification | Audio and Screen |
| Swivel (To Record Side Windows) | No |
| Apps | PC, OSX, Android, iOS |
| Cloud Connectivity | Yes |
| Release Date | Aug 2020 |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| Unique Features | Alexa integration SOS Emergency Services (Paid subscription) Cloud capability |
| Advantages | Good video quality (with caveats) Cloud capability |
| Disadvantages | High price Non-buffered parking mode Not discreet Battery instead of capacitor |
| Final Word | High priced premium camera with good video quality and lots of features. Not a good value when drawbacks are considered |
Published: November 4, 2020
Nextbase 622GW - DashCamTalk
The Nextbase 622GW is a high priced premium camera with good video quality and lots of features. Not a good value when drawbacks are considered.
Product SKU: Nextbase 622GW
Product Brand: Nextbase
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 400
Price Valid Until: 2023-01-01
Product In-Stock: SoldOut
5.7