Introduction
Dashcams have become quite popular in recent years as an excellent way to record your drives for safety and security and to have video evidence in case of an accident. With the rise of dashcams, many new brands and models have entered the market, offering different features and functionality. This article will provide an in-depth review of the Nexar Beam dashcam to help you decide if it is the right one for your needs.
Main Features of the Nexar Dashcam
The Nexar Beam is known for unique features that set it apart from traditional dashcams. Here are some of the key features:
- Built-in WiFi: The Nexar automatically uploads footage to the cloud for secure backup and storage. You don’t have to worry about manually transferring videos or losing footage.
- Motion and Collision Detection: Advanced sensors allow the Nexar to automatically start recording if motion is detected near your parked vehicle or if a collision is detected while driving. This ensures essential events are not missed.
- Dimensions—Its compact size of just 2.4 x 1.5 x 1 inches and lightweight design, at only 3 ounces, allow it to be discreetly mounted without obstructing views.
- 140-degree wide-angle Lens: This lens captures a very wide field of view, capturing the entire scene in shots without any blindspots on the side mirrors.
- Clear Night Vision: The Sony Starvis sensor with f/2.0 aperture provides crisp nighttime recordings with visible clarity even in low light conditions.
- Built for Safety: Dual band WiFi with strong encryption protects uploaded footage from malware or hacking. The device also automatically blurs out faces and license plates for privacy.
- iPhone/Android App: This intuitive app allows you to configure settings, manage storage, download desired videos, and more from anywhere.
Video Quality and Performance
The Sony Starvis image sensor integrated into the Nexar delivers excellent image quality with true-to-life color reproduction during daytime recordings. Even at night, the wide-angle lens paired with the large f/2.0 aperture captures notably bright videos compared to competitors.
Some key points about Nexar’s video quality:
- Records sharp 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second for smooth motion.
- A wide dynamic range effectively balances highlights and shadows even in contrasting lighting.
- Automatic exposure and white balance adjustments ensure optimal exposures without manually tweaking settings.
- Explicit videos during rain, snow, or foggy weather conditions thanks to the powerful image processor.
- License plates of other vehicles are legible in shots from a reasonable distance away during the day and night.
- Features like lane departure warnings and forward collision alerts work reliably without false detections.
In terms of performance, the Nexar has proven to be reasonably reliable. It continuously records in parked mode for hours on a single battery charge. The WiFi connects quickly for seamless recording transfer to the cloud. Overall loading and operation speeds remain smooth without lag.
Cloud Features and Mobile Apps
One of the unique selling points of Nexar is the automatic and secure cloud storage of all recordings. Let’s discuss some of the key advantages:
- Videos are saved for 30 days on the Nexar cloud servers with unlimited storage.
- Additional storage plans like 90 or 365-day plans are also available for a small fee if needed.
- Edge AI capabilities detect interesting events to tag and index important clips from long recordings.
- Clips from those events can be easily located for quick retrieval from the large storage base.
- View, download, and manage cloud videos from the intuitive and well-designed Nexar mobile app.
- Easily share collected evidence from the cloud via email and messages directly through the app.
- The two-way audio intercom allows communication with vehicles even remotely through the app.
Along with the cloud, the app allows geotagging locations, updating firmware, adjusting settings like resolution, and calibrating the g-sensor for better detection. In short, the easy-to-use app dramatically enhances the overall Nexar experience.
Value for Money
Considering the type of functionality, performance standards, and additional cloud ecosystem, the Nexar offers excellent value for money. Here’s a quick comparison:
Budget Dashes (Under $100):
- Lack of essential safety features
- Low recording quality
- No WiFi/app control
- Have to purchase expensive storage units
Mid-Range ($100-200):
- Better quality but still limited features
- Don’t have automatic cloud backups
- Additional costs for storage/subscriptions
Nexar Beam($200):
- World-class image quality
- Class-leading safety features
- Unlimited secure cloud storage
- Intuitive app control
- Automatic event detection
- Better resale value
So for the advanced features set and lifetime warranty, the $200 price point provides solid value and ROI considering potential insurance claims and legal evidence needs down the line.
Installation and Mount Options
Setting up the Nexar is simple with the 3M adhesive mount and cable management system. However, here are some additional mounting tips:
- Pick a flat and center position behind the rearview mirror for windshield installation for optimal views.
- The suction cup mount is excellent for temporary installation or rental/loaner vehicles.
- Hardwire kit allows parking mode recording with constant power supply if preferred over battery.
- Rear windows or side mirrors are additional mounting spots for filming outside blindspots.
- Adjust the camera angle slightly downwards for better alignment and visualization of license plates.
- Use the calibration menu in the app to fine-tune rolling shutter distortion if needed.
- Ensure the camera and Adhesive mount are wiped clean and dry before secure installation.
Conclusion
In summary, for its standout cloud storage features, reliable performance, easy usability, and excellent video quality, the Nexar Beam is undoubtedly one of the best dashcams available today. Its seamless automatic uploading, parking mode capabilities, quick app control and reasonable pricing make it a versatile solution for drivers focused on road safety and fleet/commercial vehicle management needs. For those looking for an all-in-one integrated dashcam, the Nexar is highly recommended.