The 70mai A500s Dash Cam (also marketed as 70mai Pro Plus+) is a dual-channel dashcam designed for comprehensive vehicle monitoring and safety. It features high-quality recording ensuring clear footage even in low-light conditions.
70mai A500s Dashcam Specifications
- 2” IPS screen
- Front camera resolution 1944P (2.7K), using Sony IMX-335 5MP sensor with 140° wide-angle lens
- Rear camera resolution 1080P (HD) with 120° wide-angle lens
- WiFi connectivity a/b/g/n 2.4 GHz
- Built-in GPS
- 500 mAh battery
70mai A500s DashCam Review
Brand
Founded in 2016, 70mai began as an auto intelligence company focused on dashboard cameras within Xiaomi’s Mi ecosystem. It has since become an independent global entity. Launching its first dashcam worldwide in 2018, 70mai has achieved significant growth, selling 1.5 million units in 103 countries.
Overview
The 70mai A500s dash cam is a mid-range model that supports dual-channel recording. It pairs with the RC06 rear camera to provide all round protection although you can just the A500s alone for front camera recording. By default, the 2-inch screen will display the recording of the front camera but you can switch to the rear camera with a touch of a button.
Installation
The 70mai A500s dash cam is relatively easy to install. It comes with a double-sided sticker to stick to the base of the camera to the windscreen. You can adjust the angle (up to 90°) of the screen afterwards. The installation of the rear camera is similar.
The wiring however can be complicated. First, you will need to connect the power supply of the rear camera to the A500s’s rear camera port. You probably need to run through the wire along the top of the rear windscreen, along the side window and to the front windscreen. Finally, you need to connect the power supply of the main A500s to a USB port. Depending on your car model, you might need to run the wire to the nearest USB port or to the cigarette lighter port. The device comes with a cigarette lighter to USB adapter as well.
70mai App
With the built-in WiFi, the A500s connects to the 70mai app so you can check the recordings and download the files to your phone. You also need the app for software update to the A500s dash cam. Since the device is using Wireless N (2.4 GHz) standard, the download speed using the app is very slow.
Night Owl Vision
The A500s dashcam utilizes image signal processing, including 3D dynamic noise reduction (3D DNR) and wide dynamic range (WDR), to enhance image quality. 3D DNR and WDR merges multiple differently exposed image frames into one, effectively minimizing noise and balancing exposure. This results in significantly clearer images, particularly in challenging low-light or high-contrast conditions.
Built-in GPS
The 70mai A500s dash cam includes a built-in GPS, a feature uncommon in similar mid-range models. This GPS embeds with the video recordings, offering real-time trip information such as time, speed, and GPS coordinates. Users can also download complete trip data to their phones using the 70mai app.
Parking Surveillance
The 70mai A500s dashcam features a built-in sensor for detecting sudden shakes or collisions when the car is parked. Upon detection, it automatically records potential incidents and alerts you when the dashcam is next turned on. Please note that this parking surveillance feature requires the separately sold hardwire kit. Be aware that prolonged use of this feature may deplete your car battery, especially during extended periods such as long vacations.
Time-Lapse Recording
In parking mode, the A500s supports continuous recording at 1 frame per second and then compresses 30 minutes of footage into a 1-minute video, conserving memory card space and enabling quicker playback for faster detection of unusual events. Please note that this feature also requires the separately sold hardwire kit.
Conclusion
The 70mai A500s dash cam offers comprehensive vehicle monitoring and enhanced safety through its array of advanced features. Equipped with dual-channel recording capabilities, it simultaneously captures footage from both the front and rear of your vehicle, ensuring extensive coverage and providing crucial evidence in the event of collisions or other incidents. The camera boasts exceptional image clarity, delivering sharp and detailed recordings that can be vital for accurately documenting events. Furthermore, its superior low-light exposure capabilities enable clear identification of important details such as license plates and road signs, even in challenging lighting conditions. This makes the 70mai A500s a reliable and indispensable tool for promoting driver awareness and ensuring accountability on the road.