I've only had the C1 pro for a few days and so far, it's working as advertised. Purchased for $99, seems like a great deal. I did a lot of research on this and based on my preferences, this was my choice. I liked the high quality video's and coverage I saw on youtube. The GPS, MPH and parking monitor were good for me to. The integrated map is interesting, not sure how much I'll use it. Also, the ability to wifi connect and pull a video off to my iphone was important.
Setup was stupid easy. The iphone app is nice to make settings. The buttons on the unit are easy to use once you get used to what to click, they are extremely sensitive though. My original firmware was 1.6 and wifi transfer didn't work very well. The amazing support of Roav got me the 1.9 firmware and it is much faster, does about a single percent of the download in about 1.5 - 2 seconds. (1080p 60fps).
I haven't really tested the parking monitor. During set up, when you have it on and are hiding the wires, installing it, etc, it ended up recording which is fine.
I was really leaning towards a capacitor instead of a battery, but the other features the Roav has vs capacitor ones was more important. Guess I'll see when it gets hot outside (northern virginia).
I decided to order the unit first, then figure out a hardwire kit. It comes with an angle usb connector and I think that is important. I didn't want to order a hardwire with the wrong angle. For now, I hid the wire in the roof and down the column, under the dash and into my USB connector. It powers off when the car is off so it automatically activates the parking mode. My lighter adapter is always powered so i didn't want to use that.
Firmware update is easy, just extract the bin file from the rar file, put on root of memory card. Turn off roav, insert card, turn on, wait a few minutes. With the parking mode activated, it was hard to tell if the unit was in the standby mode doing a recording or was doing the firmware upgrade. I'd suggest changing the following settings prior to firmware upgrade
- Increase the screen off delay so you understand if it is off or in standby
- Turn off parking monitoring
Cons:
- no rear camera, not even an option to purchase separately. I figured if this goes well, I'll do a separate one later.
- the wire/power cable worked for me, but from the right side of the mirror, across the left side to drivers door, down the column, under the dash, up to the USB in the compartment below the radio, I only had about 6 inches of extra wire left. In a bigger car, it might be an issue. The cable is easy enough to replace with a longer one since it is standard USB cable with specific ends on it.
- Wifi: I originally thought to keep the Wifi on so I could connect whenever I wanted to pull something off. I then noticed when i drove away from the house, my phone automatically connected to it since I leave my wifi on for my phone. I'm still testing and not sure of the impact to the Roav or my phone with it connected all the time while I am driving, so I'll have to test further, but if this does become a problem, it is not simple to turn on/off the wifi on the unit and I don't want to have to mess with that. I'd rather just start the app and connect to it when I want without having to change settings on the roav. Again, this may or may not be a problem, I need to test it further, but there is some oddities when connected.
My car Con's:
- in my 2016 ford explorer, I have a mesh of black dots around the rear view mirror for radio antenna. There is also a large housing on the mirron where it attaches to the windshield since the mirror has electronics in it. I had to shift the roav a little more to the right for placement and I kind of see the corner of the housing in the video (just a small amount). It is still non-obtrusive and centered well. This is more likely a Ford Explorer con than a Roav con, but you should figure this out before buying any dashcam. Also, if at some point I do the hardwire, the ford fuse box is under the hood, not in the main cabin, so I'll have to figure out how to get through the metal and firewall to the engine compartment. Again, a Ford issue but something people should consider.
Pro's:
- App that works with iphone to do settings and download video's if you are on the road. you can put memory card in computer also
- Parking mode
- WiFi for phone to talk to it
- Great resolution
- Seems to work well at night, need to test more
- Decent size, not to big
- Comes with memory card (32g) takes larger cards (Class 10)
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This Item  Roav DashCam C1 Pro, by Anker, 2K Resolution 2560X1440, Built-in GPS/Wi-Fi, 2.4 Inch LCD, 4-Lane Wide-Angle View Lens, G-Sensor, WDR, Loop Recording, 2-Port Charger, 32G microSD Card, Easy Sharing |  |  |  |  | |
| Price | Currently unavailable. | $189.99 | $189.99 | -17% $99.99 List: $119.99 | -19% $129.99 List: $159.99 |
| Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16 | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16 | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16 |
| Customer Ratings | |||||
| Picture quality | |||||
| Night vision | |||||
| Camera quality | |||||
| Sold By | — | FiTCAMX Brand Store | FiTCAMX Brand Store | Yanqi TechNest | ROVE Dash Cam |
| video resolution | 2K | Front 4K Only | 4K | — | 2160p, 1440p, 1080p |
| mounting type | Adhesive Mount | Ceiling | Suction Mount | — | Windshield Mount |
| auto part position | inside | center | rear | — | front |
| control method | touch | application | application | — | application |
| real angle of view | 140 degrees | 170 degrees | — | 170 degrees | 360 degrees |
| batteries included | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| battery composition | — | lithium | lithium | lithium ion | — |
| optical sensor tech | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | — | CMOS |
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Customer Review: Has exceeded our expectations!
Ptucker322
Reviews with images
Great Dashcam with a Few (Hopefully Solvable!) Issues
I researched dash cams for a loooooong time and had settled on the C1 when the C1 Pro popped up as option on Amazon. It seemed to address most of the issues I had with the C1, for a decent price including the SD card, which was a big plus. I still wasn't 100% sold on it and was stuck between this and the TaoTronics 2K camera (TaoTronics Dash Cam 2K 30fps HD Super Night Vision Car Camera DVR 2" LCD 160 Wide Angle Dashboard Recorder, Sony G-Sensor, Loop Recording, HDR, Free 32GB SD Card). While trying to decide, the price of the TaoTronics dropped significantly from $100 to $58. It is lacking many of the features of the Anker C1 Pro, but at the lower price, I was willing to give it a shot. I bought both and, after trying both, decided to stick with the Anker. The TaoTronics has a lot going for it, but, after about a week of use in my 2011 Ford Escape, I'm more impressed overall with the Anker. Though there are some improvements that could be made, it's very good. Here are my observations organized by pro and con.PROS:1. The resolution and video itself are really great. I'd call this a tie between the two models, because both are excellent in this regard. This is true for both night and day shooting. Some folks have complained about the night shooting of this model, but I thought it was great. I uploaded a video of the night shooting so you can see for yourself (the video is muted). I also took two screenshots of the night video, one zoomed out fully and one zoomed in on the app on a license plate. I took this at about the outer limit of where I could still make out the license plate in the video. Things to note are that the street is fairly well lit and the license plate is still well within the wash of my headlights. The license plate becomes unreadable in the video well before the point at which I could still easily read it just by looking at it in real life, but I was still very impressed with the video. There is a certain level of distortion that makes things look further away than they actually are because the camera has a wide field of view, but that seems to be common among dash cams. You have to sacrifice some level of distortion in order to get more in the frame. You'll notice that there is a reflection on the windshield from my dashboard. I noticed this on the recordings from both models and think that it is unavoidable based on the windshield, dashboard color, and time of day. Overall this didn't seem to detract from being2. The form factor is great. Because of the way it mounts, it is closer to the windshield, more discrete, is easier to see the LCD, easier to manipulate the controls, and offers more mounting options than the TaoTronics. I found that in my case, I was able to mount it closer to the headboard liner, and thus had less exposed wiring (see picture). Excellent. I also was able to mount it above the rearview mirror while still being able to see the LCD, which I couldn't do with the other model.3. The tools that come with the C1 Pro make installing the unit and the wiring a breeze. I've heard other reviewers mention that theirs came with an electrostatic sticker to make for easy removal of the mount when necessary, though? Bummer, because mine appeared to be missing that. See more in the "CONS" below. The TaoTronics came with these tools as well (except for the sticker) and a permanent and suction cup mount.4. Included SD card is awesome. Same with the included 2 USB-outlet 12V plug. Very useful. TaoTronics also came with an identical card and plug.5. The CONCEPT for most of the software on both the unit itself and for mobile devices to coordinate with the dash cam via wifi is excellent. Execution in may cases leaves something to be desired (see CONS, below). The idea of being able to review and download video in a mobile app and adjust preferences (see picture) for the dashcam IN the mobile app is excellent. TaoTronics' model was lacking this.6. The internal battery powers the device well when not connected to power. This is useful for reviewing video on the unit while it's not connected and for the parking monitor function. I'm not sure how long the device will stay powered using the internal battery, however, because the 12V power on my Ford Escape stays on even when the ignition is off (see more info under CONS, below).7. The microphone works well and is easy to mute/unmute. No problems there.7. The UI for both the device and on the mobile app is - when functioning correctly - both simple and easy to use. TaoTronics' UI was lackluster and it lacked the next three features as well.8. The speed / g-force / direction overlay when reviewing video via wifi in the mobile app is excellent and well thought-out (see pictures).9. The GPS works well and, when reviewing video in the mobile app in portrait orientation, you can simultaneously view your position on the map and the video (see picture). Excellent.10. Once videos are downloaded to the mobile app, they are easy to share in the app via Facebook or YouTube or just by downloading them to the device's native photo / video app.The Roav app even allows you to trim the video before uploading.CONS.1. Downloading and reviewing video via the mobile app is quite slow. Granted, it's 2K video, so it should be expected to take a while, but still, be prepared. There was a lot of buffering happening whenever I used the mobile app to view video that was stored on the SD card and downloading video to my phone took quite a while. You have to be within wifi range of the camera to perform either function so you basically have to wait in your car while this is going on or take the dashcam out with you.2. My camera did not come with the electrostatic sticker that others seemed to get. I was looking forward to using it to mount my camera without having to deal with the sticky 3M mess directly on my windshield. I tried to resolve this problem by buying Sticker Shield (STICKER SHIELD - Windshield Sticker Applicator For Easy Application, Removal and Re-application From Car to Car - 4 inch x 6 inch sheets (Pack of 2 Sheets) to use with the adhesive mount, but those stickers were not strong enough to reliably support the weight of the dashcam. Perhaps the sticker that Anker includes are better, but I will never know. That having been said, the unit DID come with two adhesive mounts, so after I wasted one by sticking it to the third party electrostatic sticker, I used the other to permanently mount the camera directly to my windshield, which worked well.3. I've had some issues with missing videos and videos being randomly ordered in the app. I'm not sure what's causing this, as it doesn't seem like I've had problems with the time being reset as others have mentioned, but it's definitely an issue. When looking for specific videos they will sometimes randomly be ordered without any real explanation. For what it's worth, I changed the recording time from 1 to 3 minutes recently and things seem to have gotten better. I never had this issue with the TaoTronics.4. There are some other random software glitches that need to be resolved. The camera itself seems to have a "wifi" and "non wifi" mode, the main difference being that in "wifi" mode, the preferences can't be changed on the unit itself, I assume because they can be changed from a mobile device when connected. You can get OUT of wifi mode when in it by hitting the power button, but I frequently experiences issues in which the camera would arbitrarily switch into or out of wifi mode while driving or while navigating other menus. This was frustrating when I was trying to review videos or change settings on the dashcam itself, as I would be locked out of that function.5. I've had a hard time getting the parking mode to work correctly. I believe this is more a problem with my vehicle than the dashcam though, because my vehicle's 12V power stays on even when the keys are out of the car, so I'm not deducting any points for this. I have to manually turn the unit off when getting out and turn it back on when entering, otherwise it stay on all the time. I think this is a common problem with dashcams in Fords (because a lot of Fords have 12V power that's always on).6. This thing gets HOT. The sides are metal and if you leave it on your windshield in the heat, it will be EXTREMELY hot to the touch after a long afternoon. I live in Georgia and it can get scorching in your car after leaving it in a parking lot for work all day. I know some people who bought the C1 had problems with the LCD detaching in the heat or other similar issues, so out of an abundance of caution and in order to avoid scorching my fingers, I either take it off the mount and put it in the glovebox or take it with me when I'm leaving the car in the heat for a long period of time. Better safe than sorry.7. Some of the instructions and information included is in imperfect English, but that seems to be par for the course with dashcams. Not a dealbreaker.8. If there is a way to simultaneously view map and video data once the videos are imported from the app and viewed on something else, I don't know how). Similarly, I don't know if it's possible to view the speed / g-force / direction overlay once the videos are exported from the app. If so, I don't know how. The speed IS indicated in the watermark in the bottom right corner (see video).CONCLUSIONThe video of this dashcam is great and I think most of the problems are easily solvable. I look forward to seeing how/if Anker resolves the software / other issues. If you are looking for a dashcam that you can mount discreetly and which has GPS / wifi capabilities with excellent resolution, I think this is a great choice.
Top reviews from other countries
Biochemist
Buena Dashcam y discreta. Atención al cliente de Roav increíble.
Reviewed in Spain on October 28, 2019
Andrea M.
ottima qualita' costruttiva e funzionale !! inclusi scheda 32g e presa accendisigari !
Reviewed in Italy on March 11, 2018nunes1337
Roav C1 Pro by Anker, surprising better and cheaper than its competitors
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 24, 2018
nunes1337
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 24, 2018
First of all, although I’ve not even read the instructions - let me emphasise that in my testing, adjusting the lens view/angle to capture the tip or a small section of your bonnet seems to enable the Dash Cam to focus so much better and correctly on everything else. There is no need to point the lense into the sky anyway. It makes a huge difference. And see my up to 65mph photos which demonstrate the potential of this dash cam, capturing number plates when it’s performance and setup is optimised.
Performance and resolution wise (2k/1440p) the Anker Roav C1 matches and rivals the Nextbase 512 series but beats it in value. Not only with the lower cost and RRP, but primarily because this includes a 32GB SD card which saves you having to purchase one for £10-£15.
No need for any installation kits, this simply plugs in and works. You will probably determine that no more than 3 min loop/clips are necessary, at max res these take around 2 mins to download.
It is smaller, more subtle than its nextbase rival, arguably a suction mount is more versatile but the Roav C1 Pro instead comes with two plates in which to stick and clip on into position. So you can place it in two locations or use the additional one for use in a different car.
The Roav C1 Pro comes with a perfect Anker dual-port USB charger adapter, an existing product which plugs in your standard (cig lighter style) power point. It is designed small enough in size to ensure fitment and remain out of the way, takes up less space than larger alternatives. It also includes a useful plastic tool in which to hide the cabling under the car trim, depending on your choice of location. With its Anker dual USB ports included, the overall package has been designed with consideration in mind, as a bonus and extremely useful. Simply by providing the second spare USB port to plug in your smart phone charging cable, or anything else that uses a USB connection. You could even plug in a second dash cam, which is what I have done. I actually bought a quad Anker USB port charger and run two of these dash cams, one in front and one for the rear and still have 2 spare USB ports.
In terms of features, it has all the same as the Nextbase 512GW, WIFI, Motion and parking sensors, etc, all can be accesssed on the touch screen or more easily using the WiFi App. The exception is polarisation. Whether this is effective or not I haven’t tested, to be fair. But an independent review I read claimed the polarised lens on the Nextbase was actually more counter productive and reduced picture quality when it was not bright.
As stated I found the DashCam was better able to focus when a part of my car bonnet was within the capture frame, only a small section I.e the tip 20-cm onto the bonnet as a guide, depending on your car and window angles etc. See my photos for an idea, this is not a sacrifice it drawback by any means.
One of the big concerns everybody seems to have with all dash cams, is the visibility of number plates. But all Caneras are limited to their resolution and frame rate, among other things. With 20:20 vision using ones eyes alone, its pretty difficult to read a number plate on a car that is moving at speed towards you. But I can say with reasonable expectations, there are no issues reading numberplates, and it does so as well as any other dash cam with matching resolution and FPS. The most detail is produced on a bright sunny day as you’d expect with any camera. But it works well enough in the dark too. It’s the time just before sun set that any dash cam or camera would have more difficulty focusing, but my recordings are more than sufficient.
The faster your car, and oncoming cars are driving, the more difficult it is to read number plates. But again this is the same with any camera, increasing the frame rate from 30fps to 60fps would increase clarity in this case. But driving 30-40mph I am able to see number plates clearly enough. Even up to 65mph. Although it’s important to remember that in a typical incident and insurance claim, capturing every cars reg plate is not often possible or necessary at all to prove ones liability or determine who’s at fault. DashCams are not ANPRs in a Police car where you’d be in pursuit of a fleeing criminal/vehicle. The front view is sufficient most of the time, and in a car park, ultimately you’re still vulnerable from all other angles unless you go crazy and buy 4 Cams for complete 360 degree vision.
The user interface is very basic, and simple to use. I’ve not seen the Nextbase LCD screen, which is certainly bigger and perhaps easier. But when in use after initial setup and testing, you will not need to need to access, or adjust settings and features on a regular basis. But if you did, it’s much easier using the WiFI app on a smart phone anyway. It’s essentially plug and play, fit and forget. Mine is out of sight under the mirror and if I want to view, record or download clips, it takes a few seconds to connect and open the app. As mentioned I was so impressed I bought a second identical Roav Anker C1 Pro for the rear. Which isn’t essential at all really, but it gives some more assurance and peace of mind.
Note: I’ve uploaded clips and still photos regarding number plates, that demonstrate the quality and potential recording visibility, as seems to be important to many: They are all in max 2k res but 30fps, not 60fps which might improve high speed image detail further. Also you can see that due to it being winter, many were recorded as the sun is setting, as it begins to get dark. As stated this only occurs for the duration it takes for the sun to set (or rise) and this is the worst time to record the good quality footage on any type of DashCam, the same way my iPhone and other cams struggle and need flash mode etc. It’s because it frequently has to refocus and adjust going through darkness and shadows over trees, buildings, housing etc. To put it simply, the brief time between day light and darkness. On a bright sunny day, a dull day or in absolute darkness the Cam stabilises, performs and records normal quality again.
Finally, note that in the (compressed) video I am driving within the speed limit but in excess of 55mph in some. Combine this with the speed of the oncoming traffic and cars speeding towards me in the clips, no Human could read the plates at that speed. However, as I demonstrated by zooming in, you can still just about read the number plates well enough, which is quite impressive IMO. It’s simply a case of viewing your recordings and pausing it at the optimum frame and then zooming in. I’ve shown this in a few photos. There may be better examples with the 60fps mode on YouTube etc. Amazon compressed my video.
Finally apologies for the music!
Images in this review
