Right on Broseph, 0:26 I did not know that about the emergency button locking the previous, and upcoming file, great job bringing that to light. 7:05 I also didn’t know about long pressing the lock button to enter playback mode. That would be useful if you didn’t have your phone nearby. Fantastic review hitting all the important points. -Chuck
Installed a A229 duo about a week ago. So far, so good. Picture quality is nice and the thinner rear-cam cable is a treat running it through the headliner (though feeding it through boot grommets took a few tries!) My biggest complaint actually comes from the hardwiring kit: I wish the usb-side cable was thinner, and I wish the ferrite bead was closer to the voltage switch.
@@blackboxmycar Hi! So, once more totally failing to get an accurate answer from the internet I resort to the Master! So, I got myself an ODB2 cable. It has a O (ACC) and a '__' (surveillance) mode. My question is when I am driving the car or the car is powered on, which mode should the ODB cable be? the O or the surveillance mode?. Would it be dangerous to have the surveillance mode on during driving? or should I drive with the O mode and then once I park, switch off the car then turn the surveillance mode ON on the ODB switch? I would highly appreciate your response. Thanks!
@@MizanurShuvraRidwan I just tested this cable you are speaking of. I am returning it because it does not properly work with the newer Viofos if you want to use the parking mode. As in terms of your question, it does not matter what mode you set it to while driving. O mode will "supposedly" shut the camera off after 5 minutes when you shut your car off. The - "surveillance mode" will keep the camera running nonstop until your battery hits around 11.6 volts. Here's the issue that I tested yesterday with my A129 Plus Duo. I currently have a proper hardwire kit from Viofo in my car. When I shut off my car, the Viofo camera knows to shut off from recording mode (3 min loops) to park mode. Park mode now goes into Motion detection and will only record when it detects motion. When I start the car again, the camera then switches back to driving mode and back to constant recording at my 3-minute loops. The ODB cable I tested when it is set to surveillance mode and you shut the car off, the Viofo is not getting the proper signal to switch to park mode. So the camera will continue to record nonstop like I am driving. I tested this cable for a relative and will be returning it and I will get a proper hardwire kit from Viofo.
@@jayfizzz still going great! Only complaint I have is super minor, I wish they put the sd card port on the other side (or the bottom) so I wouldn't have to take the dashcam off when attempting to access it (my region is RHD, so if I want the camera mounted on the passenger side of the mirror, the mirror blocks easy access to the sd card slot)
I say it's worth the upgrade imo. Glad they're keeping the screen I find it faster changing stuff in there than my phone. Find it cool/ sad how these probably less power hungry than my blackvue's 900x plus those don't even have screens too
The difference is more noticeable in low-light situations. Check out our sample footage comparison on the A119 Mini 2 here: ua-cam.com/video/m5BFMn56sos/v-deo.html
Hey, I've just been on the Viofo website and seen an advert for the A139 PRO. Apparantly with a newer sensor from Sony. Do you guys have any more info on that? I guess I have now to decide to buy the A139 Pro or the send my new A229 back? (Arrived today) Picture quality is the most important aspect for me
Which parking mode setting would be best to have for only damage type of incidents as my vehicle is parked over night for 10-12 hours and I do not plan to use a extra battery at this time.
I understand your concern about wanting to protect your vehicle overnight without using an extra battery. In this case, you might want to consider using a parking mode setting that prioritizes impact detection, like selecting "Auto event detection" as the parking mode option. This means the dash cam will only record when it detects a physical impact on your vehicle, helping to conserve your car battery while still capturing important incidents. Keep in mind that the length of parking mode will depend on the health of your car battery and other factors, typically lasting around 6-8 hours. If you notice your battery isn't lasting as long as you'd like, you might want to consider a battery pack in the future for extended coverage.
Isn't this replacing the A129 Plus version as that is a 2k camera? The A129 Pro is 4k. Also, the rear camera cable should be angled at both ends to have a neat look when installed, although getting it through to the rear door might be hard.
We've found that certain windshields are problematic with a right-angled rear cable, especially if we have to fish it through the rear window tubing. Yes, this model is only 2k, but it's worth noting that the rear camera is 2k as well, compared to the 1080p of the A129 pro's rear camera. Plus, the A229 Duo does have new image sensors for better image quality, so it's not as simple as 2k vs 4k.
For the VIOFO A229, the rear camera cable is typically around 6 meters (approximately 20 feet) long. This length should generally be sufficient for most 3rd row SUVs, but it can depend on the specific layout and size of your vehicle. If you find that the cable might not be long enough, we do offer extended cable options in certain cases. I recommend measuring the distance from where the front camera will be mounted to the rear window to ensure compatibility. If you need further assistance or have any questions, feel free to reach out to our support team at info@blackboxmycar.com or chat with us via Live Chat. We're here to help you get the perfect setup for your SUV!
Hey there! First of all, great review as always 😊 I have a question: I have the A129 Pro Duo which works perfectly fine. Because the rear camera only records in 1080p, I wanted to know if I could buy the rear camera from the A229 (which records in 2K) and plug it into my A129 Pro front camera. Of course I would have to buy a special cable (microUSB to coaxial I think). Does that work? Thanks in advance
Hi thanks for the video with details When I drive I left this camera 10 min loop recording. For parking I’m using blackvue battery and I left auto detection mode but when I turn off my car the camera keeps recording with 10 min loop and doesn’t start parking recording. Camera doesn’t say parkung recording started. Camera doesn’t know that is in parking. Maby the problem is the battery?
How do you have the camera connected to the battery pack? You'll need a spliced VIOFO output cable to connect the camera to your battery. We have a video on this as well here: ua-cam.com/video/GIwnTvy1r2k/v-deo.html
Hey Eddie, it depends on how strong your tint is. If it's the standard factory tint of 10-15%, you'll be fine without it. Contact us at info[at]blackboxmycar.com if you have more questions - we're happy to help!
When the A229 is hardwired in to the fuse box for parking mode functionality, does the unit have intelligence to cut-off permanently so as not to drain the vehicle's battery after prolonged non-start parking mode use?
Yep, you just have to go into the settings and update the voltage cutoff protection so that the VIOFO will automatically shut off if it drops below a certain voltage to prevent damage to your car battery.
A139 is a 3-channel dash cam, so it's not a fair comparison against the A229. However, as the A229 is newer, we would recommend going for this. Both the recordings will be very similar in terms of quality, so if anything, the decision would come down to whether you're looking for a 2-channel or a 3-channel dash cam.
Hey David, yeah - I wish they did too, but in our opinion, most users don't need 4K. In fact, 2K will help compress file sizes and record more, giving you the added protection you need.
They're still using the H.264 codec by default, but there is a way to change it to the H.265 codec. It's a hidden feature. We detailed it down here: www.blackboxmycar.com/blogs/news/h265-the-good-the-catch-and-the-how
Hey! Thanks for a great review. I'm confused to choose one between Thinkware Q800 pro and VIOFO A229. Can you please help me pick the best one? Thanks!
Hey there, the Thinkware Q800PRO is now discontinued, so the VIOFO A229 would probably be your best bet if you want future firmware updates. However, if you still prefer Thinkware and like its parking mode and Cloud, the successor to the Q800PRO is the Q1000 which works great too.
Would the A229 be a better option than the older Blackvue DR750X? The Blackvue is a few years old now and the price isn't far off. Presumably the sensor in the A229 newer/better?
Yes, the image sensors of the A229 Duo are better, it records in 2k/2k, while the DR770x and DR750X only record in 1080p/1080p. While Viofo is the clear victor in terms of image quality, BlackVue is still the go-to for a discrette and seamless model with advanced features, such as the cloud. Viofos are generally a bit more basic.
Does the a229 rear camera have the Auto Event Detection as in motion detection, when in parking mode? For example if someone walked behind my car only, would it record?
If I don't purchase the parking kit, can the surveillance in the parking lot be activated upon motion detection using an external power bank battery on VIOFO A229?
Parking mode can definitely be used for this unit without the parking kit, and using a battery pack instead. For the camera to properly go into parking mode with a battery pack, it will need a 3-wire connection to the battery to properly send signals to the camera. We sell the needed cables pre-done on our website with the batteries.
Question: my electric car doesn't have cigarate sock for power but USB-C ports for phone charging in the front seats area of the car. Can VIOFO A229 (using USB-C at both ends) or A129 Pro duo (using micro USB to USB-C cable) be powered via those USB-C ports?
As long as these USB ports are above 5A, and they only power when the car is on. They should be fine to use. The cigarette lighter adapter that comes with the A129 Pro Duo can have the cable removed to function as the USB cable you are looking for. Do not use the USB port if it power's when the car is off.
Im about to pull the trigger on a A229 but I’m not sure which SD card to get. I know you guys recommend the Sandisk Ultra A1 SD card but I saw on viofo’s site that they recommend the A2 and not the A1. Is the A1 still the better choice?
A1 or A2 should not make a difference! We have used the A1 cards in all of our cameras on a regular basis and do not experience any issues. Still, I'd recommend a reliable SD card manufacturer like SanDisk.
Hey there, it will depend on what features you prioritize. If you like video quality and on a lower budget, then the VIOFO A229 will do the trick. But if you prioritize parking protection and Cloud, then the Q1000 will be the answer for you. Personally, we love Thinkware's parking protection but it does require a higher budget. Cloud is nice in that you can be notified of any incidents happening to your car when you're away, but it does require a separate LTE hotspot for it so that would be something to consider if it's within your budget.
I´m not confident to hardwire the cameras. What if I´m using the wrong fuse contact? So I´m thinking I want to install a powerbank to run the cameras in parking mode and have some questions for that, if you might allow me to. Is there a powerbank which will work well / the best with this system? Can I charge the powerbank over the USB contact of the cigarette adapter, and the run the cameras over the original USB cable from the cameras? Any useful info will be very appreciated. : )
I hear you, hardwiring can be a bit overwhelming the first time! No worries though, a battery pack is a great solution. All of our battery packs are compatible with the Viofo A229 Duo Model, but the best value system would be our PowerCell 8. While the camera will technically power off the USB connection, we recommend using a spliced Viofo HK4 cable to connect the camera to the battery, as this will ensure the camera properly goes into parking mode when the vehicle turns off, drawing less power than standard recording.
If you have further questions, feel free to ask us over live-chat through our website blackboxmycar.com, we can also point you towards the proper cable if that bit was confusing.
You can certainly use the rear camera as an in-cabin camera but we don't recommend it since it doesn't have IR. There is no IR specific dash cam for the VIOFO A229 unfortunately.
The Viofo A229 is very comparable when it comes to resolution, the Q1000 would excel with its advanced features, while the A229 Duo here only covers only the essential features.
The adhesive for our dash cams is designed to stick to the windshield, and if it were to be placed on the dashboard, it would likely become loose over time, needing some replacement tape. We also find the viewing angle for dash cams is generally best from the top, so the hood of the car doesn't get in the way too much.
hi, thanks for a fantastic video. I have just one question that no one is answering me clearly. So, for example, a229 we know that it requires hardwiring for the 24-hour parking. Now, that is because it needs a continuous power supply right? but arent some dash cams able to also connect using a ODB connector with cables? So, if we can have an ODB connector that can connect to Viofo shouldn't it also support 24-hr parking power supply? If it can, then what would be such an ODB wire that has the other end suitable for the Viofo a229? Thanks, please let me know if my question is unclear.
Hi Mizanur, great question. The main advantage of hardwiring is for the 24-hour parking, and the way it's able to do so is because hardwiring provides a higher amperage to the dash cam, allowing it to charge while your car is on the move. You can't do so with a 12V connection because it just simply doesn't provide enough power. You can get parking mode with an OBD connector as long as it gives your dash cam enough juice, but this is something that we haven't tested extensively so how reliable for this is unclear. That said though, we have had some short-term testing with an Apeman OBD connector and it seems to work, but we haven't tested this out extensively so we cannot be certain that it's a long-term solution. Hope this helps!
@@blackboxmycar hi, thanks for an extensive comprehensive answer. My only Concern with the hardwiring is that my dealer said it will void the warranty of my vehicle, specially since It's on lease. I have asked the dealership's mechanics and they are not willing to mess up with the hardwiring as well. So, i am already at the brink of utter frustration finding an easy to install 24-hr parking mode dash-cam. With 2023 approaching its really hopeless to see such an easy technology kept so difficult 😕... Anyway, your description has given me some hope. Any idea what kind of ODB cable might work with the a229? Thanks a bunch bro!
No problem. Hardwiring does not void your warranty. They would have to draw a direct correlation that the need for repairs were directly caused by the dash cam. We did write an article here about it: www.blackboxmycar.com/blogs/news/need-parking-mode-will-a-dash-cam-install-void-my-car-warranty An Apeman OBD Connector cable (with USB C) would be what you need and it should work with the VIOFO A229, but that said, we haven't tested it with the VIOFO A229 specifically so we can't make any guarantees, but they're built the same way as previous VIOFO models so it should be very similar. If you have more questions, don't hesitate to reach out at info[at]blackboxmycar.com :)
@@blackboxmycar bro,you're the best. You not only know your stuffs, but you answer so precisely and don't pretend to say anthem you don't know! Only a few has those much required characteristics! I wish you all the best. You just saved my life! God bless!
Tough decision! The Thinkware Q1000 has many more advanced features, and you'll likely find better night vision as well. I also find that their app and parking mode are more advanced as well. The Viofo A229 Duo would be a more economic mode, if that's a large factor for you.
With the windshield stickers: Take care that the lenses of the cameras are outside the stickers. I didn´t check that on the rear camera and do now have some air bubbles alltime on the footage. :(
Which cards are you guys using on A229. I tried 200gb sandisk ultra from previously installed garmin dashcam but got memory slow error. I bought a new viofo 128gb card from viofo and it has random memory errors, what gives. (Speed tests rate both cards at 20MB/s)
Sorry to hear that your VIOFO SD card is giving you issues, I recommend speaking to them about getting it replaced. We use the SanDisk Ultra A1, which we sell at our shop with a 1-year warranty, and have experienced no compatibility issues with these cameras.
You could say that 4K is always going to be better resolution-wise compared to 2K, but it's better to judge for yourself by looking at the sample footage for each. In our opinion from a daily usage standpoint, 2K is good enough for what most drivers need.
@@blackboxmycar thanks for answers! So my last question would be this! Can i buy the a229 duo. And install the rear cam into my hatchback car, and then also use the cam in another car, but only would use Front facing in that car. Like i have 2 cars, could i move the camera from car to car depending which I’m driving that week? Thx 😊
You can, but just know that the rear camera needs the front camera to power it (via the rear connecting cable). So you can move the front camera from one car to another. For the convenience though, we'd recommend having a separate dash cam system in each one personally, but to each their own!
I am looking to replace my Father's Front Facing Only A119S to something newer. Based on the video. I might just go with the A119 Mini because it has the same sensor and CPU of the A229 if I only need the front-facing camera.
The A119 Mini or A229 would be good calls, though it's worth noting that the cabling has been updated for both models, and would need to be switched from your A119S. Both these cameras are very solid, though I could see the larger screen on the A229 Duo more beneficial for someone who's a bit old-school :).
Unfortunately the A119 Mini 2 is front-only. However the A229 Plus Duo is right around the corner, offering 2k/2k with Starvis 2, so stay tuned for that!
Does anyone here know how the "Parking Recording Duration" setting works? It's on page 21 of the manual. I don't understand the differences between "Off" and "1 Hour". I don't understand the purpose of those 2 options. Thanks!
Hey Danny, can you send us an email at info[at]blackboxmycar.com or give our team a call directly on our website? We'd love to answer all the questions that you have on your purchase. We're here to help!
We address the different laws of countries and how they affect dash cams in one of our latest videos. Check it out here! ua-cam.com/video/paxulgTx3C0/v-deo.html
As a broadcast engineer you're pronunciation of coax (cock-zul vs co-axe-eel) is triggering 😁 great video though I'm definitely eyeing up the A229 after our car got hit for a second time.
Essential i think is the ability to capture the license plate of vehicles, not only in parking mode but mostly when moving. In the video i can't understand if it can or not.
Hey Vincent, good points to bring up. We can confirm that it can but it will depend on the speed at which you're driving at (also relative to the speed of the other cars).
@@blackboxmycar It seems to me that a simple fullhd is not able, 2k sometimes, 4k always. About 2k i don't understand because only sometimes, maybe their 2k are only virtual ? Don't know...
I had this unit professionally installed a little over a month ago, and my experience has been awful. The original and the replacement main body both started to glitch after only working properly for a couple of weeks. That's *two* times Viofo's quality control has absolutely failed in a very short time period. I couldn't recommend Viofo less. Complete waste of an installation fee.
Unfortunately the GPS information is attached to footage on the camera, and while that can give you a record of where the car went, it can't be accessed remotely for seeing where the vehicle is in live-time. There are cameras who can be accessed in this way remotely, that would be the Cloud service. I recommend taking a look at BlackVue's latest models for this feature.
I get that a 360-degree view is useful for capturing all angles. While the BlackVue front and rear cameras cover the front and back, they don’t cover the sides. For side coverage, consider adding extra cameras or a system with side and interior cameras. If you want to expand your setup or have questions, contact us at info@blackboxmycar.com or use Live Chat. We’re here to help!
This video is very informative and helped me decide. However, the music is extremely annoying and distracting. Also, you pronounce “coaxial” incorrectly. Please look up the correct way.
I owned this for an hour and sent it back. The menu system was horrible and unreliable. There is no actual menu button, you have to stop the recording with a short press to the record button because the unit starts recording instantly when powered up and then hit the 'hamburger button' and the menu is supposed to pop up, but too many times it didn't work in the short hour I owned this older unit. I gave up and sent it right back. Along with these problem you have to make sure you loaded the app, the units Wi-Fi is logged on, and all through this process it keeps asking questions. It was not a smooth background process. Plus I was not ready to pay $200 for installation or tear apart so much trim in my new Honda CR-V to make it look nice. This typically confusing Chinese product was not for me.
Thanks for the feedback, I'm sorry to hear it wasn't a seamless process for you there. I hear where you are coming from with the buttons being unclear, and the initial wifi setup taking a few steps. Viofo cameras are generally very basic when it comes to setup like this, and if you are looking for an easier, more seamless experience, other brands such as BlackVue allow for smart and easy pairing. In the future, if you experience technical issues like this with products purchased from us, feel free to give us a call! We have a support team that specializes in questions like this.
It's the same way as you'd remove any dash cam, but you're just removing the GPS module's adhesive instead. Just with a trim tool and windex, maybe some heat to soften the glue!
I'm using viofo a119 v3 it's great it's been 4 years I've had no problems Viofo thanks.
Great to hear!
There's no dashcam that can beat Viofo V3 as of today!
@@seekfactsnotfiction9056 It has no WIFI function otherwise it's great
I have had this model installed for 2 months now. So far, so good.
Right on Broseph,
0:26 I did not know that about the emergency button locking the previous, and upcoming file, great job bringing that to light.
7:05 I also didn’t know about long pressing the lock button to enter playback mode. That would be useful if you didn’t have your phone nearby.
Fantastic review hitting all the important points.
-Chuck
Thanks Chuck, we try our best :)
Installed a A229 duo about a week ago. So far, so good. Picture quality is nice and the thinner rear-cam cable is a treat running it through the headliner (though feeding it through boot grommets took a few tries!)
My biggest complaint actually comes from the hardwiring kit: I wish the usb-side cable was thinner, and I wish the ferrite bead was closer to the voltage switch.
Good to know, thanks for sharing!
@@blackboxmycar Hi! So, once more totally failing to get an accurate answer from the internet I resort to the Master! So, I got myself an ODB2 cable. It has a O (ACC) and a '__' (surveillance) mode. My question is when I am driving the car or the car is powered on, which mode should the ODB cable be? the O or the surveillance mode?. Would it be dangerous to have the surveillance mode on during driving? or should I drive with the O mode and then once I park, switch off the car then turn the surveillance mode ON on the ODB switch? I would highly appreciate your response. Thanks!
@@MizanurShuvraRidwan I just tested this cable you are speaking of. I am returning it because it does not properly work with the newer Viofos if you want to use the parking mode. As in terms of your question, it does not matter what mode you set it to while driving. O mode will "supposedly" shut the camera off after 5 minutes when you shut your car off. The - "surveillance mode" will keep the camera running nonstop until your battery hits around 11.6 volts. Here's the issue that I tested yesterday with my A129 Plus Duo. I currently have a proper hardwire kit from Viofo in my car. When I shut off my car, the Viofo camera knows to shut off from recording mode (3 min loops) to park mode. Park mode now goes into Motion detection and will only record when it detects motion. When I start the car again, the camera then switches back to driving mode and back to constant recording at my 3-minute loops. The ODB cable I tested when it is set to surveillance mode and you shut the car off, the Viofo is not getting the proper signal to switch to park mode. So the camera will continue to record nonstop like I am driving. I tested this cable for a relative and will be returning it and I will get a proper hardwire kit from Viofo.
How do you like the dashcam 9 months later?
@@jayfizzz still going great! Only complaint I have is super minor, I wish they put the sd card port on the other side (or the bottom) so I wouldn't have to take the dashcam off when attempting to access it (my region is RHD, so if I want the camera mounted on the passenger side of the mirror, the mirror blocks easy access to the sd card slot)
I say it's worth the upgrade imo. Glad they're keeping the screen I find it faster changing stuff in there than my phone. Find it cool/ sad how these probably less power hungry than my blackvue's 900x plus those don't even have screens too
Definitely, thanks for sharing :)
How much difference in quality from STARVIS 2 quality as in the A119 MINI 2 ?
The difference is more noticeable in low-light situations. Check out our sample footage comparison on the A119 Mini 2 here: ua-cam.com/video/m5BFMn56sos/v-deo.html
Hey, I've just been on the Viofo website and seen an advert for the A139 PRO. Apparantly with a newer sensor from Sony. Do you guys have any more info on that?
I guess I have now to decide to buy the A139 Pro or the send my new A229 back? (Arrived today)
Picture quality is the most important aspect for me
Which parking mode setting would be best to have for only damage type of incidents as my vehicle is parked over night for 10-12 hours and I do not plan to use a extra battery at this time.
I understand your concern about wanting to protect your vehicle overnight without using an extra battery. In this case, you might want to consider using a parking mode setting that prioritizes impact detection, like selecting "Auto event detection" as the parking mode option. This means the dash cam will only record when it detects a physical impact on your vehicle, helping to conserve your car battery while still capturing important incidents.
Keep in mind that the length of parking mode will depend on the health of your car battery and other factors, typically lasting around 6-8 hours. If you notice your battery isn't lasting as long as you'd like, you might want to consider a battery pack in the future for extended coverage.
Isn't this replacing the A129 Plus version as that is a 2k camera? The A129 Pro is 4k.
Also, the rear camera cable should be angled at both ends to have a neat look when installed, although getting it through to the rear door might be hard.
We've found that certain windshields are problematic with a right-angled rear cable, especially if we have to fish it through the rear window tubing. Yes, this model is only 2k, but it's worth noting that the rear camera is 2k as well, compared to the 1080p of the A129 pro's rear camera. Plus, the A229 Duo does have new image sensors for better image quality, so it's not as simple as 2k vs 4k.
I have q 3rd row suv, is the cable long enough to reach the back window
For the VIOFO A229, the rear camera cable is typically around 6 meters (approximately 20 feet) long. This length should generally be sufficient for most 3rd row SUVs, but it can depend on the specific layout and size of your vehicle.
If you find that the cable might not be long enough, we do offer extended cable options in certain cases. I recommend measuring the distance from where the front camera will be mounted to the rear window to ensure compatibility.
If you need further assistance or have any questions, feel free to reach out to our support team at info@blackboxmycar.com or chat with us via Live Chat. We're here to help you get the perfect setup for your SUV!
Great review. In regards to that sticky film, is it reusable? Meaning can you peal it off with the dash cam on it and stick it somewhere else?
Hi Danny, it's reusable, yep!
Bought it. Looking forward to installing it. Sounds like I am going to require the SD card.
Hope you love it as much as we do!
How do you like the a229 nowadays? How’s it holding up? I think I’m going to buy one this week
I have just received my A229. How do you remove the front camera from the GPS unit? It seems fixed solid to me. Thanks
The GPS mount can be slid off to the side of the unit.
Hey there! First of all, great review as always 😊
I have a question: I have the A129 Pro Duo which works perfectly fine. Because the rear camera only records in 1080p, I wanted to know if I could buy the rear camera from the A229 (which records in 2K) and plug it into my A129 Pro front camera.
Of course I would have to buy a special cable (microUSB to coaxial I think).
Does that work? Thanks in advance
Unfortunately they are not compatible with one another, so that would not work. Thank you for the compliments!
Good explanation. Really appreciate your effort. One question though, how many ports do the cig adapter have? Is it single USB C only? Thank you..
Hey Pey, it's a double port, but you can always use your own if you need one with more ports.
Hi thanks for the video with details
When I drive I left this camera 10 min loop recording. For parking I’m using blackvue battery and I left auto detection mode but when I turn off my car the camera keeps recording with 10 min loop and doesn’t start parking recording. Camera doesn’t say parkung recording started.
Camera doesn’t know that is in parking. Maby the problem is the battery?
How do you have the camera connected to the battery pack? You'll need a spliced VIOFO output cable to connect the camera to your battery. We have a video on this as well here: ua-cam.com/video/GIwnTvy1r2k/v-deo.html
Looks like a great camera. My front windshield is tinted, will I need the cpl filter? If I do get the filter, will my tints affect the quality? Thanks
Hey Eddie, it depends on how strong your tint is. If it's the standard factory tint of 10-15%, you'll be fine without it. Contact us at info[at]blackboxmycar.com if you have more questions - we're happy to help!
When the A229 is hardwired in to the fuse box for parking mode functionality, does the unit have intelligence to cut-off permanently so as not to drain the vehicle's battery after prolonged non-start parking mode use?
Yep, you just have to go into the settings and update the voltage cutoff protection so that the VIOFO will automatically shut off if it drops below a certain voltage to prevent damage to your car battery.
I noticed you didn't recommend the Sandisk High Endurance card but the A1 instead, is it really better than the high endurance version?
Both SD cards should be fine, we've just tested much more thoroughly with the SanDisk A1, which is the SD card we supply with this unit.
does any one compare in between the A139 and this? which one has quality recordings to read plastes of cars?
A139 is a 3-channel dash cam, so it's not a fair comparison against the A229. However, as the A229 is newer, we would recommend going for this. Both the recordings will be very similar in terms of quality, so if anything, the decision would come down to whether you're looking for a 2-channel or a 3-channel dash cam.
@@blackboxmycar do you recommend the old generation in 4k , so bad that they didn't release the A229 in 4k😒
Hey David, yeah - I wish they did too, but in our opinion, most users don't need 4K. In fact, 2K will help compress file sizes and record more, giving you the added protection you need.
Are they still using the older h.264 codec? And not the newer h.265 or av1?
They're still using the H.264 codec by default, but there is a way to change it to the H.265 codec. It's a hidden feature. We detailed it down here: www.blackboxmycar.com/blogs/news/h265-the-good-the-catch-and-the-how
Hey! Thanks for a great review. I'm confused to choose one between Thinkware Q800 pro and VIOFO A229. Can you please help me pick the best one? Thanks!
Hey there, the Thinkware Q800PRO is now discontinued, so the VIOFO A229 would probably be your best bet if you want future firmware updates. However, if you still prefer Thinkware and like its parking mode and Cloud, the successor to the Q800PRO is the Q1000 which works great too.
@@blackboxmycar Thanks a lot for your response! I have ordered the A229 from your website.
Would the A229 be a better option than the older Blackvue DR750X? The Blackvue is a few years old now and the price isn't far off. Presumably the sensor in the A229 newer/better?
Yes, the image sensors of the A229 Duo are better, it records in 2k/2k, while the DR770x and DR750X only record in 1080p/1080p. While Viofo is the clear victor in terms of image quality, BlackVue is still the go-to for a discrette and seamless model with advanced features, such as the cloud. Viofos are generally a bit more basic.
@@blackboxmycar Great! Thanks for the reply! 👍
What are the actual bitrate stats that you made reference to in the video? Thanks
Here you go:
Low (Front: 16.6Mbps / 12.4Mbps)
Standard (Front: 19.8Mbps / 15.8Mbps)
High (Front: 23.8Mbps / 18.9Mbps)
Max (Front: 28.7Mbps / 25.4Mbps)
Does the a229 rear camera have the Auto Event Detection as in motion detection, when in parking mode?
For example if someone walked behind my car only, would it record?
Yep, it would work for both angles!
If I don't purchase the parking kit, can the surveillance in the parking lot be activated upon motion detection using an external power bank battery on VIOFO A229?
Parking mode can definitely be used for this unit without the parking kit, and using a battery pack instead. For the camera to properly go into parking mode with a battery pack, it will need a 3-wire connection to the battery to properly send signals to the camera. We sell the needed cables pre-done on our website with the batteries.
Question: my electric car doesn't have cigarate sock for power but USB-C ports for phone charging in the front seats area of the car. Can VIOFO A229 (using USB-C at both ends) or A129 Pro duo (using micro USB to USB-C cable) be powered via those USB-C ports?
As long as these USB ports are above 5A, and they only power when the car is on. They should be fine to use. The cigarette lighter adapter that comes with the A129 Pro Duo can have the cable removed to function as the USB cable you are looking for.
Do not use the USB port if it power's when the car is off.
Im about to pull the trigger on a A229 but I’m not sure which SD card to get. I know you guys recommend the Sandisk Ultra A1 SD card but I saw on viofo’s site that they recommend the A2 and not the A1. Is the A1 still the better choice?
A1 or A2 should not make a difference! We have used the A1 cards in all of our cameras on a regular basis and do not experience any issues. Still, I'd recommend a reliable SD card manufacturer like SanDisk.
Hi @BlackboxMyCar Dash cams
Can you tell us which one would you prefer between VIOFO A229 and Thinkware Q1000 and why?
Hey there, it will depend on what features you prioritize. If you like video quality and on a lower budget, then the VIOFO A229 will do the trick. But if you prioritize parking protection and Cloud, then the Q1000 will be the answer for you. Personally, we love Thinkware's parking protection but it does require a higher budget. Cloud is nice in that you can be notified of any incidents happening to your car when you're away, but it does require a separate LTE hotspot for it so that would be something to consider if it's within your budget.
Is there a cpl filter available for the rear camera?
Unfortunately there is not currently a CPL filter for the rear camera of the A229 Duo
I´m not confident to hardwire the cameras.
What if I´m using the wrong fuse contact?
So I´m thinking I want to install a powerbank to run the cameras in parking mode and have some questions for that, if you might allow me to.
Is there a powerbank which will work well / the best with this system?
Can I charge the powerbank over the USB contact of the cigarette adapter, and the run the cameras over the original USB cable from the cameras?
Any useful info will be very appreciated.
: )
I hear you, hardwiring can be a bit overwhelming the first time! No worries though, a battery pack is a great solution. All of our battery packs are compatible with the Viofo A229 Duo Model, but the best value system would be our PowerCell 8. While the camera will technically power off the USB connection, we recommend using a spliced Viofo HK4 cable to connect the camera to the battery, as this will ensure the camera properly goes into parking mode when the vehicle turns off, drawing less power than standard recording.
If you have further questions, feel free to ask us over live-chat through our website blackboxmycar.com, we can also point you towards the proper cable if that bit was confusing.
I am liking this video, because of all of the good information. Thumbs up 👍 and thank you for this video.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Does the rear camera have a CPL filter?
The rear camera does not have a CPL filter, and the CPL filter does not fit the rear camera.
@@blackboxmycar viofo should make one for it
Does it allow to add cabin cam
Or rear cam can be used as cabin cam for ride share purposes where night vision is kinda must
You can certainly use the rear camera as an in-cabin camera but we don't recommend it since it doesn't have IR. There is no IR specific dash cam for the VIOFO A229 unfortunately.
@@blackboxmycar I see thanks for the video and and your great advice
Much respect
How’s does this compare to the Q1000
The Viofo A229 is very comparable when it comes to resolution, the Q1000 would excel with its advanced features, while the A229 Duo here only covers only the essential features.
Is there a way to install this on the dashboard, instead of the windshield?
The adhesive for our dash cams is designed to stick to the windshield, and if it were to be placed on the dashboard, it would likely become loose over time, needing some replacement tape. We also find the viewing angle for dash cams is generally best from the top, so the hood of the car doesn't get in the way too much.
@@blackboxmycar Dashcam mounting is technically not legal in many US states, hence the question.
The word "coaxial" is properly pronounced co-AX-ee-uhl. Not "cocksull" as it was being said in this video.
Ah, you brought up a good point. We will let Joseph know.
Lmao, I’m surprised he does not know how it’s pronounced.
@@SMH365 Ham radio operators around the world, are laughing. 😆
Until I saw it written, I thought that maybe there's some kind of other cable.
Yes Cock soul is the best cable in the world. It's dielectric is made from the sole of a chicken's feet.
hi, thanks for a fantastic video. I have just one question that no one is answering me clearly. So, for example, a229 we know that it requires hardwiring for the 24-hour parking. Now, that is because it needs a continuous power supply right? but arent some dash cams able to also connect using a ODB connector with cables? So, if we can have an ODB connector that can connect to Viofo shouldn't it also support 24-hr parking power supply? If it can, then what would be such an ODB wire that has the other end suitable for the Viofo a229? Thanks, please let me know if my question is unclear.
Hi Mizanur, great question. The main advantage of hardwiring is for the 24-hour parking, and the way it's able to do so is because hardwiring provides a higher amperage to the dash cam, allowing it to charge while your car is on the move. You can't do so with a 12V connection because it just simply doesn't provide enough power. You can get parking mode with an OBD connector as long as it gives your dash cam enough juice, but this is something that we haven't tested extensively so how reliable for this is unclear. That said though, we have had some short-term testing with an Apeman OBD connector and it seems to work, but we haven't tested this out extensively so we cannot be certain that it's a long-term solution. Hope this helps!
@@blackboxmycar hi, thanks for an extensive comprehensive answer. My only Concern with the hardwiring is that my dealer said it will void the warranty of my vehicle, specially since It's on lease. I have asked the dealership's mechanics and they are not willing to mess up with the hardwiring as well. So, i am already at the brink of utter frustration finding an easy to install 24-hr parking mode dash-cam. With 2023 approaching its really hopeless to see such an easy technology kept so difficult 😕... Anyway, your description has given me some hope. Any idea what kind of ODB cable might work with the a229? Thanks a bunch bro!
No problem. Hardwiring does not void your warranty. They would have to draw a direct correlation that the need for repairs were directly caused by the dash cam. We did write an article here about it: www.blackboxmycar.com/blogs/news/need-parking-mode-will-a-dash-cam-install-void-my-car-warranty
An Apeman OBD Connector cable (with USB C) would be what you need and it should work with the VIOFO A229, but that said, we haven't tested it with the VIOFO A229 specifically so we can't make any guarantees, but they're built the same way as previous VIOFO models so it should be very similar.
If you have more questions, don't hesitate to reach out at info[at]blackboxmycar.com :)
@@blackboxmycar bro,you're the best. You not only know your stuffs, but you answer so precisely and don't pretend to say anthem you don't know! Only a few has those much required characteristics!
I wish you all the best. You just saved my life! God bless!
We try our best :) Glad we answered your questions!
Viofo A229 vs. ThinkWare Q1000 (with rear cam.)?
Tough decision! The Thinkware Q1000 has many more advanced features, and you'll likely find better night vision as well. I also find that their app and parking mode are more advanced as well. The Viofo A229 Duo would be a more economic mode, if that's a large factor for you.
With the windshield stickers: Take care that the lenses of the cameras are outside the stickers.
I didn´t check that on the rear camera and do now have some air bubbles alltime on the footage. :(
Sorry to hear that :( . Yes, it's always best practice to check the live-view of the camera during the mounting process
I don't have a dashcam, but Viofo is on my wishlist for Christmas, but probably won't be getting it :{}
Black Friday offers are live so it would be the best time to buy :) but happy holidays in advance!
Best video I´ve found for the A229.
But for me as a newbie, to much to fast, but that´s me, not you.
Very well done.
Thanks for the feedback :D
Which cards are you guys using on A229. I tried 200gb sandisk ultra from previously installed garmin dashcam but got memory slow error. I bought a new viofo 128gb card from viofo and it has random memory errors, what gives. (Speed tests rate both cards at 20MB/s)
Sorry to hear that your VIOFO SD card is giving you issues, I recommend speaking to them about getting it replaced. We use the SanDisk Ultra A1, which we sell at our shop with a 1-year warranty, and have experienced no compatibility issues with these cameras.
Is this a better cam than the dual 4K one of the A129 duo pro?!
Specs-wise are very similar, but you get 2K Front and Rear, whereas you get 4K Front and 1080P Rear here. We would go for the A229 as it's newer!
@@blackboxmycar the image quality on the A129 pro is much better though correct ??
You could say that 4K is always going to be better resolution-wise compared to 2K, but it's better to judge for yourself by looking at the sample footage for each. In our opinion from a daily usage standpoint, 2K is good enough for what most drivers need.
@@blackboxmycar thanks for answers! So my last question would be this! Can i buy the a229 duo. And install the rear cam into my hatchback car, and then also use the cam in another car, but only would use Front facing in that car. Like i have 2 cars, could i move the camera from car to car depending which I’m driving that week? Thx 😊
You can, but just know that the rear camera needs the front camera to power it (via the rear connecting cable). So you can move the front camera from one car to another. For the convenience though, we'd recommend having a separate dash cam system in each one personally, but to each their own!
Could both front and rear cams record in 2K @ 60fps?
Unfortunately not. Only if you're using it as a 1CH
I am looking to replace my Father's Front Facing Only A119S to something newer. Based on the video. I might just go with the A119 Mini because it has the same sensor and CPU of the A229 if I only need the front-facing camera.
The A119 Mini or A229 would be good calls, though it's worth noting that the cabling has been updated for both models, and would need to be switched from your A119S. Both these cameras are very solid, though I could see the larger screen on the A229 Duo more beneficial for someone who's a bit old-school :).
Hope there is A119 mini 2 front + rear combination from Viofo without 4k, 2k is enough.
Unfortunately the A119 Mini 2 is front-only. However the A229 Plus Duo is right around the corner, offering 2k/2k with Starvis 2, so stay tuned for that!
Does anyone here know how the "Parking Recording Duration" setting works? It's on page 21 of the manual. I don't understand the differences between "Off" and "1 Hour". I don't understand the purpose of those 2 options. Thanks!
Hey Danny, can you send us an email at info[at]blackboxmycar.com or give our team a call directly on our website? We'd love to answer all the questions that you have on your purchase. We're here to help!
Is it equipped with ADAS?
It does not. FineVu and Thinkware dash cams do offer this feature if you're looking for it.
Can I turn my interior dashcam on or off at will
No, you can't turn it on or off at will. If you don’t want to use it, you’ll need to unplug it from its power source.
Can you do a review on the A139 PRO?
Unfortunately we don't have plans to carry the VIOFO A139 Pro, so for that reason, we won't be covering it anytime soon. Sorry!
A 129 plus duo or A229 duo
A229 Duo, all the way :D
For the same price one could put one A119 v3 in the front window and one A119 v3 in the rear window.
You could, you definitely could, but then you'd need 2 separate SD cards!
That's what I did :)
That's great idea 👍🇮🇳
Pls, also feature dashboard-mounted cams. Windshield-mounted cams are illegal on some states (like here in Alabama).
We address the different laws of countries and how they affect dash cams in one of our latest videos. Check it out here! ua-cam.com/video/paxulgTx3C0/v-deo.html
As a broadcast engineer you're pronunciation of coax (cock-zul vs co-axe-eel) is triggering 😁 great video though I'm definitely eyeing up the A229 after our car got hit for a second time.
Thanks for the feedback :D! Let's get your vehicle protected, third time's the charm.
viofo shld have made common installation connector n mounting for all models so that its easier to upgrade without going to wksp for re-wiring....
Thanks for the feedback! I believe Viofo is focusing on making the wiring slimmer, as it used to be rather thick with older models.
Essential i think is the ability to capture the license plate of vehicles, not only in parking mode but mostly when moving. In the video i can't understand if it can or not.
Hey Vincent, good points to bring up. We can confirm that it can but it will depend on the speed at which you're driving at (also relative to the speed of the other cars).
@@blackboxmycar It seems to me that a simple fullhd is not able, 2k sometimes, 4k always. About 2k i don't understand because only sometimes, maybe their 2k are only virtual ? Don't know...
want to know the size???
Size of the screen is 2.4"!
@@blackboxmycar overall dimensions???
I had this unit professionally installed a little over a month ago, and my experience has been awful. The original and the replacement main body both started to glitch after only working properly for a couple of weeks. That's *two* times Viofo's quality control has absolutely failed in a very short time period.
I couldn't recommend Viofo less. Complete waste of an installation fee.
Thank you for the feedback.
If your car were to get stolen....
**knocks on wood**
Could the GPS feature of the A229 be used to track it down?
Unfortunately the GPS information is attached to footage on the camera, and while that can give you a record of where the car went, it can't be accessed remotely for seeing where the vehicle is in live-time. There are cameras who can be accessed in this way remotely, that would be the Cloud service. I recommend taking a look at BlackVue's latest models for this feature.
Only problem is , its not 360 degrees. Just front and rear viewings
I get that a 360-degree view is useful for capturing all angles. While the BlackVue front and rear cameras cover the front and back, they don’t cover the sides.
For side coverage, consider adding extra cameras or a system with side and interior cameras.
If you want to expand your setup or have questions, contact us at info@blackboxmycar.com or use Live Chat. We’re here to help!
Nice video but good lord that pronunciation of coaxial dug into my brain hard... it's co-axial, like "axis"
co-axe-i-al cable. not coxle.
This video is very informative and helped me decide. However, the music is extremely annoying and distracting. Also, you pronounce “coaxial” incorrectly. Please look up the correct way.
Thank you for the feedback!
👍
Absolutely!
I owned this for an hour and sent it back. The menu system was horrible and unreliable. There is no actual menu button, you have to stop the recording with a short press to the record button because the unit starts recording instantly when powered up and then hit the 'hamburger button' and the menu is supposed to pop up, but too many times it didn't work in the short hour I owned this older unit. I gave up and sent it right back. Along with these problem you have to make sure you loaded the app, the units Wi-Fi is logged on, and all through this process it keeps asking questions. It was not a smooth background process. Plus I was not ready to pay $200 for installation or tear apart so much trim in my new Honda CR-V to make it look nice. This typically confusing Chinese product was not for me.
Thanks for the feedback, I'm sorry to hear it wasn't a seamless process for you there. I hear where you are coming from with the buttons being unclear, and the initial wifi setup taking a few steps. Viofo cameras are generally very basic when it comes to setup like this, and if you are looking for an easier, more seamless experience, other brands such as BlackVue allow for smart and easy pairing. In the future, if you experience technical issues like this with products purchased from us, feel free to give us a call! We have a support team that specializes in questions like this.
Hi
Hi!
how to remove the camera with the GP:S module off the windshield?
It's the same way as you'd remove any dash cam, but you're just removing the GPS module's adhesive instead. Just with a trim tool and windex, maybe some heat to soften the glue!
Hi! Thanks for all the explanations, very useful. I visited the BlackboxMyCar website and the Promo code on the description is not working.
Hey there, glad you enjoyed the video. Can you please try it again? It should work now for the VIOFO A229!