(Note: the HP F200 shown in this photo is out of production, and not mentioned in this post)
The Mobius, A-118-C, and Papago! GoSafe 110 are three reliable dash cams that I have used and can recommend for use in a car or truck.
All produce good video, and are proven over thousands of miles of use in a tractor trailer.
You won't find these on display at your local truck stop, or other retailer. You can purchase them online from various retailers. Make sure you research the online retailer before you purchase.
The Mobius action/dash cam
The Mobius is a small action cam that can be used very well as a dash cam. I've used one in my truck for the last two years.
The Mobius is available in several lens versions.
WIDE ANGLE MOBIUS VIDEO SAMPLES
You can see the difference in coverage between the 'wide' and 'standard' lens in the video above.
(Two videos from a vacation trip to Thailand. The mobius is small, easy to pack in your luggage and use in rental cars, also!)
STANDARD LENS MOBIUS VIDEO SAMPLES
The mobius will provide about 4 hours of 1080p Video with a 32GB memory card.
The Mobius can use a variety of easily available, standard 'tripod' threaded mounts.
It's primarily an 'action' cam, but works very well as a dash cam.
Please order the inexpensive, but optional 'super capacitor' for best results in long term dash cam use.
This is a camera you will use for years. The firmware is easily updated.
from: Spy Tec
Mobius C Wide Angle Lens Aerial Sports Video Camera Camcorder - $72.89
from: GearBest
The A118-C Dash Cam
These are sold under various names, including 'B-40'. For the purpose of this post, I'm discussing the 'Capacitor' version, the A118-C.
The A118-C dash cam is a proven, and popular camera. There is the option to add a GPS module, but this has limited usefulness.
(The speed is not visible on your video, unless you use special video software)
Unlike the Mobius theA118-C attaches to your windshield via a plastic plate and two sided adhesive tape. The body of the camera attaches easily, and detaches easily, while offering a solid mount.
The A118-C also has a display screen, unlike the Mobius.
Video quality is good.
from: Spy Tec
Papago! GoSafe 110 from Gearbest.com
Gearbest.com provided a GoSafe 110 for my use and review.
I wasn't expecting much, but have been pleasantly surprised.
This is a nice, decent, basic camera that is easy to use, and produces good video.
The 'night' video is better than average, and 'motion' detection works well on this camera.
It's been reliable in 3 weeks of use, including 2 weeks of 24/7 operation in a tractor trailer.
(as of this writing)
The GS110 has a capacitor, not a battery.
PAPAGO GoSafe110 Capacitance Version HD 720P 2.0 Inch Mini Dashcam Car DVR - $86.99
from: GearBest
All of these 3 dash cams have been 'tested' in my truck. This means 24/7 operation, over thousands of miles.
For example, my Original Mobius probably has 150,000 miles on it, and has run 24/7 for over a year.
Don't drive a truck? If these cameras do well with the added shock and vibration in a 'big' truck, they'll work fine in your car.
All of these dash cams are a good choice for your first, or only, dash cam.
If you want a more 'discrete' camera, I'll rate the 3 in order of 'discretion'.
The Mobius
A118-C
Papago! GoSafe 110
Some people worry about people 'seeing' the camera in the windshield. This does not happen often. Most of these cameras are best mounted in the top center of your windshield. Tuck away any power wire out of sight, and most people will not notice them.
It's easy to turn off the display screen on the A118-C and Papago! GoSafe 110 .
The mobius has two, small LEDs that blink.
(they can be turned off in the software program, but are the only way you can tell the camera is functioning properly.)
The mobius is the smallest, and most portable.
The two cameras with 'adhesive' mounts are still capable of being removed, and re-installed, with some spare tape handy, and a few minutes of work.
(I prefer the suction cup mounts, but can live with the 'tape' mounts.)
Make sure you mount these cameras in a position on the windshield that won't obscure your vision, but will remain within the sweep of the wiper blades.
(Check any local laws for windshield mounted equipment limitations, please!)
'up high and out of sight' will give you the best video, also.
Be careful. Drive safely! A dash cam can save your bacon in a questionable traffic mishap.
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