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About Viofo
Do you have a brand new sports car you want to keep an eye on even when you’re not around? Need to film some content in or outside your vehicle? Whatever the reason, if you’re looking to outfit your car with a camera, you may want to check out this Viofo review.
Viofo is a high-class dash and sports camera brand, selling all manner of compact and multiuse cameras and accessories to customers around the world.
The brand has garnered praise within the technology and dashcam communities, and has been covered by industry news outlets like Dashcam Talk, Car Cam Central, PC World, Vortex Radar, and Tech Advisor.
But does this brand really have all the tools you need to shoot a video, map a route, or keep track of what happens to your car when you’re not around? That is what my Viofo review is going to find out by looking at the brand’s products, policies, and customer feedback.
Let’s take a look at what our Viofo review can see.
Overview of Viofo
At the dawn of the 2010s, brothers Bill and Leo Zhou saw that the market for dashcams was growing, but filled with cameras that were either bulky, had unreliable suction cup mounts that left behind marks and residue, or were prone to having their batteries overheat and become a potential safety risk – and sometimes all of the above.
With a mission to provide dashcam users with “reliable, trusted smart dashcams” with improved design and technology, they founded Viofo in 2011.
Setting up their HQ in Shenzhen, China, the brothers began making advances with their first model, powered by safer and more temperature resilient supercapacitors and offering higher camera resolution than other brands.
They followed up their flagship in 2013, with a new model that was smaller, more discrete, and utilized a static mount to avoid leaving scuffs – laying the foundation for the unobtrusive, high-tech devices synonymous with the brand.
Today, Viofo is continuing to innovate and bring customers some of the more advanced tech on the market, as the dashcam industry continues to evolve.
Seeking the highlights of this Viofo review? Check out the list below:
Highlights
- Manufacturer of cutting-edge exterior and interior cameras
- Supercapacitor power supplies that are safer to use and can survive in more extreme temperatures than battery-powered dashcams
- Ships internationally
- Optional free shipping on orders over $10 through qualifying postal services
- 90-day return policy on items with manufacturer defects
The Zhou brothers’ work over the past decade has led to several different model lines in the brand’s catalog. For this Viofo review, I’ll be taking a closer look at the popular Viofo A129 series.
Viofo A129 Review
If you’re buying a Viofo dash cam on a budget and still want to have a plethora of features at your fingertips, the brand’s A129 model series is a great option.
For this Viofo review, I’ll be looking at these four best-selling devices:
- A129 Pro Ultra 4k Wi-Fi GPS Front Dash Camera
- A129 Plus Quad Hd 2k Dash Cam With Wifi Car 1 Channel Dash Camera With GPS
- A129 Pro Duo Ultra 4k Front + Full Hd 1080p Rear Dual Channel Wi-Fi GPS Dash Camera
- A129 Plus Duo Dual Channel Dash Cam Front 2k 1440p + Rear 1080p With Wi-Fi GPS Dash Camera.
Viofo A129 Pro Ultra 4k Wi-Fi GPS Front Dash Camera Review
Whether you want to make a video to help others find their way, shoot scenic road footage on the go, or you’re just looking for an electronic eye to watch over your vehicle, then this camera is the way to go. Say hello to the A129 Pro Ultra 4k Wi-Fi GPS Front Dash Camera.
This 4K UHD camera allows you to catch detailed wide shots of the road ahead with a 130° view and F1.8 Aperture 7 elements glass lens.
This unit records mp4 videos at 3840 x 2160P resolution with a speed of 30FPS. You can even capture sharp detail in low-light environments thanks to the equipped Sony 8MP Image Sensor.
This device measures 84 mm long, 55 mm wide, and 40 mm high. At that compact size and a weight of 129 g, it’s easy to set up anywhere on your dash.
It also comes with a quick-release mount if you ever need to look more closely at the 2-inch HD LCD display. There’s also an optional built-in GPS logger that keeps track of and time stamps your route and speed data when needed.
Your data is stored on an SD memory card inserted into the dashcam (up to 256GB). The best part, though, is you don’t even need to touch the unit to access this data. Thanks to the built-in dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz), you can preview, download, and edit your footage and data, and control the camera settings with the Viofo app.
The A129 Pro Ultra 4k Wi-Fi GPS Front Dash Camera also comes with a temperature sensor that will automatically turn off the dashcam in the event of your device overheating.
You can also purchase additional features and accessories to push the capabilities of your camera, including:
- Advanced Parking Mode – to monitor your car while parked and play back recorded footage when you add a G-Sensor and Motion Detection–the former to detect collisions and the latter for movement
- CPL Filter – reduces glare from windows
- Bluetooth remote control – easily transfer important data when the SD card is full
Pick up the A129 Pro Ultra 4k Wi-Fi GPS Front Dash Camera by itself for $200.
Or, if you don’t have an SD card, you can include a 64GB card for a total of $230 or a 128GB card which will bring your total to $250.
For pricing details on all additional accessories, please check out the official product page.
Viofo A129 Plus Quad HD 2k Dash Cam With W-Ffi Car Dash Camera With GPS Review
If you liked what you saw with the A129 Pro Ultra, but your budget is a bit tighter than the $200 mark, then not to worry; Viofo has the right dashcam for you. This is the ultra-affordable A129 Plus Quad HD 2k Dash Cam With Wi-Fi Car Dash Camera With GPS.
While the GPS module for this unit may be external, the aperture 7 elements glass lens is an F1.6, the built-in Wi-Fi only operates at 2.4GHz, and the unit records Quad HD 2K 2560 x 1440P resolution video at 30fps, the A129 Plus can match, and even outclass, the Pro in all other areas.
It’s the same size and weight, has the same 2-inch HD LCD display, supports the same accessories and functions, and can also run in Parking Mode and handle SD cards of up to 256GB.
It also sports a wider viewing angle at 140°, a Sony Starvis image sensor to allow for brighter colors to show up at night, has a built-in mic and speaker, and a capacitor power supply that can operate in temperatures from -10° to 65° F.
Getting the A129 Plus Quad HD 2k Dash Cam With Wi-Fi Car Dash Camera With GPS itself will only put you out $140.
Then, it totals $170 if you add a 64GB SD card or $190 if you add a 128GB card.
Viofo A129 Pro Duo Ultra 4k Front + Full Hd 1080p Rear Dual Channel Wi-Fi GPS Dash Camera Review
If you’re shooting a film and find you need shots at the front and back of a vehicle, or you just want to see what’s going on behind you when you’re driving on a busy road, having eyes at the back of your head is easier than you’d think with the A129 Pro Duo Ultra 4k Front + Full HD 1080p Rear Dual Channel Wi-Fi GPS Dash Camera.
As the name suggests, the Viofo A129 Pro Duo is comprised of a main A129 Pro dash came that is essentially the same as the A129 Pro covered earlier in this Viofo review.
This device has the same 4K UHD 3840 x 2160P resolution at 30FPS, 130° viewing angle with F1.8 aperture, built-in 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi, internal GPS logger, temperature control sensors, and can support the same add-ons.
The difference? A second camera that allows the Pro Duo to record front and back views simultaneously.
This second camera can record Full HD video at 1920 x 1080P resolution and at 30FPS. It’s equipped with an F1.6 aperture, a 140° viewing angle, and, like its cohort, has a Sony Image Sensor to provide sharper and brighter images in reduced light.
Alone, the A129 Pro Duo Ultra 4k Front + Full HD 1080p Rear Dual Channel Wi-Fi GPS Dash Camera 2-camera package will cost you $250.
Adding on a 64GB SD card will raise the total price to $280, and a 128GB chip will bring it up to $300.
Viofo A129 Plus Duo Dual Channel Dash Cam Front 2k 1440p + Rear 1080p With Wi-Fi GPS Dash Camera Review
Think two cameras are better than one but want to get the job done for a little less of an investment? Check out the A129 Plus Duo Dual Channel Dash Cam Front 2k 1440p + Rear 1080p With Wi-Fi GPS Dash Camera.
This package’s main front camera is the A129 Plus dashcam from this Viofo review, with the same 2K 1440 resolution, 2.4GHz built-in Wi-Fi, F1.6 aperture lens, 140° viewing angle, external GPS logger, and capacitor power supply.
The back camera, which runs simultaneously (like the A129 Pro Duo’s), shares the front’s wide viewing angle, aperture lens, and the Sony Starvis Image Sensor to allow bright colors in nighttime footage. The major difference is the reduced 1080P resolution.
By itself, the A129 Plus Duo Dual Channel Dash Cam Front 2k 1440p + Rear 1080p With Wi-Fi GPS Dash Camera package will cost you $180. Adding a 64GB SD card will bring that total up to $210, and a 128GB card will bring it up to $230.
Who Is Viofo For?
For the average driver, these cameras would be great for planning routes for others to follow and can provide an easy way of recording and sharing any potential accidents for the purpose of insurance claims. Driving services could also make use of this brand for additional security in the event of an incident.
Writing this Viofo review, I could also see filmmakers using these cameras to catch footage for home or professional content creation, especially given how user-friendly, relatively affordable, and high-quality these devices are.
Additionally, drivers-ed schools could use them to record their students’ performances for later review or use them to make footage of examples before students get behind the wheel.
Viofo Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
When I went looking for customer feedback to include in this Viofo review, there weren’t many sources to be found. Based on what I was able to find, I generally found that while reception from customers was mixed, the brand is generally receiving more positive reviews than negative.
To the brand’s credit, some customers have found the resolution on models like the A129 Pro Duo to be better than other similar cameras.
An Amazon reviewer says, “As soon as the 4K version arrived, I mounted it on my windshield next to the HD version for some direct side-by-side comparisons. The difference was incredible.”
During this Viofo review I did find a number of star ratings on Amazon for some of the best-sellers in our review. Here’s how customers rank their products:
- A129 Pro – 4.2/5 stars based on 308 reviews
- A129 Pro Duo – 4.2/5 stars based on 1,625 reviews
- A129 Plus Duo – 4.3/5 stars based on 741 reviews
Some recurring complaints I noticed concerned units having short lifespans before breaking down and customer service being unhelpful or unreachable.
However, based on the larger pool of reviews from Amazon, the complaints about units dying early seems to be far outnumbered by reviews claiming good functionality.
I also noted that the brand is making an effort to respond to posts on Facebook, suggesting that they are, at the very least, making an effort to take feedback and improve where they can.
I also found that Facebook users are pleased with the brand’s longevity and ability to withstand extreme temperatures, as promised.
One of the 44 people on Facebook – where the brand has a 3.4/5 star rating – says this of the A129 Pro: “I have had the a129 for 2 years now, no problems yet. […] I thought it would have a problem here in San Antonio with the heat but no problems yet.”
The brand has also been complimented for the affordability of the A129 series, with customers impressed by how much value you get for the price.
A TechAdvisor Viofo review gave the A129 Pro Duo a rating of 4.5/5 stars, saying: “If you’re after a dual dash cam, the Viofo is one of the best value choices around. It records great quality front and rear in good light and is well designed and isn’t too expensive.”
Is Viofo Worth It?
The cameras provide good quality footage, can handle SD cards with lots of storage, can support several accessories that allow for a variety of function – like catching an accident when it happens, even if you’re parked.
I also like that their designs are made to be discreet, so you don’t have any bulky equipment distracting you on the road.
The prices also make these cameras very accessible to those who are shopping on a tight budget but still want devices of good quality. Customers are also finding that the brand is providing good value for what you pay for, across their A129 line.
To conclude this Viofo review, I would say the brand is worth checking out if you’re looking for an effective, versatile, affordable dashcam.
Viofo Promotions & Discounts
There are no promotions or discounts to be found on the brand’s website. However, it does have a newsletter that will keep you up to date on things like new products.
Where to Buy Viofo
At the time of this Viofo review, the brand’s products are being sold on their official site, Amazon, BlackboxMyCar.com, CaptureYourAction.com, OCD Tronic, HTX Dash Cams, and The Dash Cam Store.
FAQ
Who owns Viofo?
It doesn’t appear that Viofo has ever changed hands – founders Bill and Leo Zhou still appear to be the owners.
Does Viofo ship internationally?
At the time of this Viofo review I can confirm that the brand does ship internationally. While the website does put emphasis on the US, there is no clear indication that the brand doesn’t ship to other countries. Shipping rates are calculated at checkout.
What is Viofo’s Shipping Policy?
Depending on the postal service chosen, you may qualify for free shipping if your order is over $10. Otherwise, shipping costs will depend on the country in question, and the customer will be responsible for any customs charges.
Once an order is placed, processing takes about 2-3 business days. Once it has shipped, an order may arrive between 14-28 business days if you manage to get free shipping. Regular shipping from product stock in China can take 4-8 business days while ordering from US stock can take from 5-10.
If you need to track your order, Viofo will provide that information to you through a link to an assigned tracking number within 2-3 business days.
What is Viofo’s Return Policy?
If you wish to return a new or unused camera in its original packaging, you have only 3 days to initiate the return process. You must simply:
- Contact customer service
- Receive a return merchandise authorization (RMA) to be printed on the outside of the package
- Return to Viofo, paying whatever shipping charges you may incur
Any items that arrive at your door damaged also have a 3-day return policy, though in these instances, Viofo will cover the return shipping.
In the instance that a product has an issue due to a manufacturing defect after arrival, the customer has 90 days to initiate a return. So long as the costs are under $20 and you can show a receipt for it, Viofo will also cover the return shipping.
Note that returns initiated after 90 days are subject to shipping, and repair or replacement fees that are the responsibility of the customer.
All cameras come with a 1-year warranty that can be extended by 6 months if the project is registered. Accessories have only a 3-month warranty.
How to Contact Viofo
If you have any questions after reading this Viofo review, you can get in touch with the brand through the live chat or contact form on the website, email, phone, or snail mail:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone 86 755 8526 8909
- Address: Room 201 Factory Building No.1, Guanghui Science and Technology Park, Minfu Road, Longhua, Shenzhen, China
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