In an era of valuing dashcam footage for unexpected incidents, selecting the right one is crucial. Advances in technology have made it possible to shrink the size of devices, leading to a demand for compact dashcams among drivers. Responding to this, VIOFO released the leading compact dashcam, the VS1. Many compare the VS1 with another compact dashcam, the Garmin Mini 2. This article will provide a detailed comparison of the two, to help figure out the differences between them.
Differences
1. Image Quality
1.1 Image sensor
VIOFO VS1: Sony STARVIS 2 IMX675 5MP image sensor.
Garmin Mini 2: Garmin Clarity™ HDR 2.1MP optics sensor.
Sony STARVIS 2 IMX675 5MP image sensor is the latest model on the market. It offers a much wider dynamic range, approximately 2.5 times that of the STARVIS 2 pixel of the same size, bringing much less noise and motion blur during day & night recording.
1.2 Resolution
VIOFO VS1: 2K 1440P 30/fps.
Garmin Mini 2: 1080P 30/fps.
2K resolution offers a higher pixel density compared to 1080p, resulting in sharper and more detailed images. It will easily capture all the critical details as license plates on the road.
2. Design & Power Supply
VIOFO VS1 Power Supply: USB TYPE-C.
Garmin Mini 2 Power Supply: USB MICRO-B.
USB Type-C offers a user-friendly experience. It supports faster data transfer, enabling quicker charging and efficient data handling. Additionally, Type-C is becoming the standard for new devices, ensuring greater compatibility in the future.
3. GPS Recording & Tracking
VIOFO VS1: Support.
Garmin Mini 2: None.
VS1 provides detailed location, speed, and time data of the vehicle when playing back the video on the VIOFO App or computer. A dash cam with GPS tracks exact locations and speeds, providing crucial evidence for accidents and ensuring more accurate accountability.
4. Data Transfer & Live View
4.1 Wi-Fi
VIOFO VS1 Wi-Fi: 5GHz.
Garmin Mini 2 Wi-Fi: 2.4GHz.
Built with an upgraded 5GHz Wi-Fi connection module, VS1 can provide 4 times faster data transfer, ensuring smooth video previewing, downloading, and sharing.
4.2 Direct Data Transfer to Smartphone/Computer
VIOFO VS1 Power Supply: USB TYPE-C to Smartphone and Computer.
Garmin Mini 2 Power Supply: USB MICRO-B to Computer.
VIOFO VS1 supports seamless connectivity to your smartphone via a USB 2.0 Type-C to Type-C data cable, enabling superfast downloads of photos and videos. Specifically, the download speed is up to 20MB/s on the iPhone 15. This direct connection also facilitates effortless firmware updates, ensuring access to the latest features and optimal performance.
5. Parking Monitoring/Guarding
5.1 For Garmin Mini 2
It offers only one method to guard the car. It will automatically enter standby mode after parking and automatically records video each time it detects an incident, and sends a notification to your smartphone. This function requires a Wi-Fi connection and continuous power supply using an OBD-II car power adapter cable (sold separately).
5.2 For VIOFO VS1
It offers three parking modes.
1. Auto Event Detection
Once moving objects are detected, the camera will automatically start recording and will save the video for 15 seconds before and 30 seconds after the detected event.
2. Time Lapse Recording
Record a video at low frames at 1 / 2 / 3 / 5 / 10 fps without audio recorded, saving storage and power.
3. Low Bitrate Recording
Keep recording continuously in mini file size with audio recorded, to help save more space on your MicroSD card.
This function requires continuous power supply using an HK4 Hardwire Kit (sold separately).
6. Storage
VIOFO VS1 and Garmin Mini 2 can both be extended up to 512GB.
VS1 has included a 32GB MicroSD memory card in the package for free.
7. Bluetooth Remote
VS1 provides an optional Bluetooth remote control at the same time. With just a simple press of the remote, important videos can be saved and locked without needing to take your eyes off the road, which lets you drive safely.
8. Other features
Garmin Mini 2 supports DASH CAM AUTO SYNC, online Vault storage features.
Similarities
1. Concealed Design
Both VIOFO VS1 and Garmin Mini 2 are all screenless compact hidden dashcams.
After installation, they can be perfectly integrated with the vehicle interior without affecting the driver's vision.
2. Viewing angle
Both VIOFO VS1 and Garmin Mini 2 use a 140-degree wide-angle lens to ensure a wider field of view and capture more images.
3. HDR & Night vision
Both VIOFO VS1 and Garmin Mini 2 support HDR and Night vision.
VIOFO VS1 comes with the image sensor IMX675 which has larger pixels bringing larger light-receiving capacity under the same illumination level, and the 2K HDR tech balances extremely bright and dark areas providing greater Night Vision results.
4. CPL Filter
Both VIOFO VS1 and Garmin Mini 2 provide optional CPL filter.
The benefit of having a CPL filter on a dashcam is that it effectively reduces reflections and glare, improving the clarity and quality of recorded footage. This results in clearer and more accurate recordings of driving activities, aiding in the precise documentation of details and events on the road.
5. Voice Control & Voice Notification
Both VIOFO VS1 and Garmin Mini 2 claim to have a Voice Control & Voice Notification function.
Voice Notifications provide clear, audible instructions, making it easier to know the status of the dashcam. Voice control allows drivers to operate the device hands-free, enhancing safety while driving.
Choosing between the VIOFO VS1 and Garmin Mini 2 ultimately comes down to what function you value most in a dashcam. Regardless of your choice, equipping your vehicle with either of these dashcams will undoubtedly enhance your driving security and peace of mind on the road.
To Get VS1 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQV29RLB?ref=myi_title_dp