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Thinkware X1000 Review

This large-screened dash cam has great daytime video quality but not so much at night
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Thinkware X1000 Review
Credit: Thinkware
Price:  $390 List
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Manufacturer:   Thinkware
By Matt Spencer and Becca Glades  ⋅  May 25, 2023
62
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#9 of 10
  • Video Quality - 40% 6.6
  • Video Capture - 25% 3.8
  • Interface - 25% 8.6
  • Visual Footprint - 10% 5.0

Our Verdict

The Thinkware X1000 has two cameras, one forward facing and one rear-facing. Each has a 156-degree field of view and a 2K QHD resolution. This camera's daytime quality is on par with some of the 4K models. It has superb daytime video quality, with no graininess or glare. It also boasts a large 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen. The camera is straightforward and easy to use; however, its large size can be distracting. After the sun goes down, so does the video quality. Its nighttime performance is less than impressive, with significant graininess. To see how this model compares to the rest of our test lineup, check out our best dash cam review.
REASONS TO BUY
Great daytime performance
Large LCD screen
Straightforward interface
REASONS TO AVOID
Grainy nighttime videos
Large footprint

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Bottom Line This dash cam has a great daytime video performance, though it's not the best after the sun setsA camera that is as easy to see as it is to use, but a little on the expensive sideA great camera for rideshare drivers that need in-cabin footage, but probably overkill for most other peopleRegardless of the time, this dash cam captures clear and crisp videosA dual-camera for your dash so you can see what's happening both inside and outside
Rating Categories Thinkware X1000 Nextbase 622GW 4K Vantrue N2 Pro Uber... Miofive 4K Garmin Tandem
Video Quality (40%)
6.6
6.6
8.7
7.9
7.9
Video Capture (25%)
3.8
9.1
7.5
7.7
6.5
Interface (25%)
8.6
9.0
6.1
6.0
3.8
Visual Footprint (10%)
5.0
8.0
8.0
6.0
6.0
Specs Thinkware X1000 Nextbase 622GW 4K Vantrue N2 Pro Uber... Miofive 4K Garmin Tandem
Forward Camera Field of View 156º 140º 170º 140º 180º
Forward Camera Resolution 1440p 2160p 1440p 2160p 1440p
Screen Size 3.5" 3" 1.5" 2.2" N/A
Event Detection G Sensor Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cabin Camera No No Yes No Yes
Camera Dimensions L x W x H 4-1/8" x 2-7/16" x 1-1/8" 3-3/4" x 2-1/8" x 2" 3-4/5" x 1-1/2" x 1-1/2" 4-1/2" x 1-5/8" x 1-3/16" 2-1/5" x 1-3/5" x 4/5"
Built-in Wi-Fi? No Yes No Yes Yes

Our Analysis and Test Results

The Thinkware X1000 did an exceptional job keeping its daytime video quality up with the 4K resolution competitors. It boasts a massive LCD screen that is straightforward and easy to see. Overall, we were impressed with the Thinkware, but we wish it performed better after the sun went down.

Performance Comparison


thinkware x1000 - the large thinkware x1000 dash cam has one front-facing and one...
The large Thinkware X1000 dash cam has one front-facing and one rear-facing camera that both have 2K QHD resolution.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Video Quality


The Thinkware has a dual camera system, rear and front, with a 156-degree field of view. The system records at a native 2964p and scales it down to a 1440p resolution. That said, the videos had no graininess whatsoever during the day. We could clearly read license plates and road signs.

The Thinkware X1000 has a large 3.5-inch screen and decent video quality.
Credit: Matt Spencer

The nighttime video quality is a different story. The videos are grainy and contain a substantial glare. This was made worse by any oncoming headlights. Because of this, we were unable to make out any license plates when the sun went down.

Even on low visibility days, the Thinkware X1000 does an excellent...
Even on low visibility days, the Thinkware X1000 does an excellent job capturing signs and license plates.
The quality of the Thinkware X1000s video in the nighttime is lacking.
The quality of the Thinkware X1000s video in the nighttime is lacking.

Video Capture


The camera starts recording as soon as the car is turned on, so it'll never skip a beat. It records in one-minute clip lengths and loops over the oldest footage when full. It includes a sensitive G-Sensor that will initiate a hard brake or quick stop. The device doesn't include WiFi connection, so connecting to a PC by cord or MicroSD reader is required for pulling videos. Additionally, the system has a parking mode, though the device needs to be hardwired to support this.

thinkware x1000 - the thinkware dash cam turns on as soon as the car does, so you'll...
The Thinkware dash cam turns on as soon as the car does, so you'll never miss anything.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Interface


The X1000 has a large 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen. The screen is well-lit, easy to see, and has a clear image. The interface is clean and easy to understand, with well-labeled buttons. Getting to the main menu is a breeze, and once there, there are options for volume control, brightness, microphone settings, parking mode, and files. The files include the footage gallery and memory settings. Overall, this was one of the best interface designs in the lineup.

The Thinkware's menu is easy to click into with its simple, well-labeled buttons.

Visual Footprint


Having such a large screen comes with its downsides, especially when it comes to its visual footprint. The Thinkware takes up a decent amount of space as it is roughly four inches long and over two inches wide. It resembles a small digital camera from the early 2000s and can be slightly distracting when driving. It attaches to the windshield with an adhesive mount, which is pretty standard for most dash cams. It doesn't have an internal battery, so it'll need to stay plugged in. An additional hardwiring kit is available to rid the hanging cord, and it also enables the parking mode.

thinkware x1000 - the thinkware x1000 has a large 3.5 inch lcd touchscreen.
The Thinkware X1000 has a large 3.5 inch LCD touchscreen.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Should you buy the Thinkware X1000?


Overall, the Thinkware X1000 is a decent camera. It shines in its daytime video performance with no glare or graininess. Its performance was similar to that of the 4K resolution models. However, the same can't be said for its nighttime performance. If you primarily drive during the day, this camera is a great option. However, we would suggest a different model if you're more active at night.

thinkware x1000 - the large thinkware x1000 is easy to spot, even at first glance.
The large Thinkware X1000 is easy to spot, even at first glance.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

What other dash cams should you consider?


The Miofive 4K had a similar daytime performance to the Thinkware. However, the Miofive did a bit better at night. It was able to capture license plates and road signs, regardless of the time of day. If you're looking for a dash cam that is small and gets the job done, check out the Garmin Mini 2. It's not the most advanced, but its minimalist design allows it to blend into its surroundings so you can focus on the road.

Matt Spencer and Becca Glades