Pros
- High image resolution
- Three cameras
- Wide field of view
- Good image quality
Cons
- No GPS
- No safety assistants
The Vantrue N4 is a dashcam that covers everything. It not only films to the front but also into the passenger compartment and even monitors traffic behind. The dash cam is equipped with three cameras for this purpose. But the whole thing is priced: you must pay around £230 for all-around surveillance. Our test showed minor weaknesses but did a good job overall.
Operation
The Vantrue N4 can be operated entirely intuitively with four buttons on the camera’s top. This is a good thing because the operating instructions have slight weaknesses in the translation. Nevertheless, it is comprehensible. However, it lacks crucial safety instructions on positioning the camera – which is deducted. It is a pity that no cable clamps are included in the scope of delivery. Because of the reversing camera, they would be indispensable here. So you either have to buy them yourself or see how you deal with the cable tangle in the car. Unfortunately, no smartphone app makes it easier to manage the video files – but in this price segment, that would be desirable.
Picture Quality
On paper, the front camera has it all: it alone achieves a maximum resolution of 2592 x 1520 pixels. In combination with the cabin and rear cameras, it still delivers 2560 x 1440. The two additional cameras for interior and rear shots each manage Full HD, i.e. 1920 x 1080 pixels. The high resolution is also reflected in the image quality: no matter the light or weather conditions, the images are sharp and rich in detail. For night shots, the WDR mode helps to keep the pictures noise-free and clear. The indoor camera works with infrared to provide easily recognisable images even in poor lighting. With a wide angle of 155 degrees, the front camera covers a wide area, and the rear camera even has a recording angle of 160 degrees. The interior camera manages 165 degrees. The only drawback: the frame rate is 30 frames per second. Given the comparatively high price, a higher frame rate would also be desirable to capture the fast movements in road traffic better.
Special Features
Except for the fact that the Vantrue N4 has not only a front camera but also an interior and a rear camera, it is an ordinary dashcam without bells and whistles. There are no additional safety assistants or gimmicks like other car cameras offer. GPS is only available if the antenna is purchased separately for under £25. Often, however, the additional assistants are not even necessary. The dashcam from Vantrue does an excellent job focusing on the essential functions.
