Vantrue E1 Pro review

If you want a small front camera with serious night credentials, the E1 Pro packs Vantrue's 4K recording and a Sony STARVIS 2 IMX678 sensor into a body that sits behind your mirror. It records 4K at 30fps through a 158° lens, with HDR. That sensor's the same class you'll find on the front of much bigger dual kits, which is why it gets an A- for night.

Parking's well specified for a mini. Vantrue lists buffered motion detection that saves 15 seconds before and 30 seconds after, plus collision detection, low-bitrate and 1fps low-frame-rate modes. Here's the catch: it needs a hardwire kit to run once you've locked the car, and if you want it to switch into parking mode with the ignition, you'll need a kit with an ACC lead.

It's front only, and Vantrue doesn't offer a rear camera for it. So if your car's parked on the street and you're worried about bumps from behind, we'd look at a dual kit like the VIOFO A229 Pro 2CH. Vantrue also rates it from -20°C to 60°C, and says collision detection switches off above that range.

If you'd like something even smaller and you're fine with 1080p, the Garmin Mini 3 is the one to compare. If you want a small front camera at a lower price, the VIOFO A119 Mini 2 is worth a look.

Who this suits

You want a compact 4K front camera that tucks in behind the mirror.

You'll hardwire it so buffered motion parking can run once the car's locked.

You don't need a rear camera.

When another camera fits better

You want to catch bumps from behind in car parks.

You park in strong summer heat a lot. Vantrue rates it to 60°C and advises switching off when it's very hot.

What works well

• Named STARVIS 2 IMX678 sensor recording 4K in a small body
• Buffered motion parking keeps 15 seconds before and 30 seconds after
• PlatePix image mode aimed at number plates, plus dual-band Wi-Fi

What to watch for

• Front only, with no way to add a rear camera
• Operating range tops out at 60°C, lower than some rivals
• Parking needs a hardwire kit bought separately

Common questions

Can I add a rear camera to the Vantrue E1 Pro?

No. It's a front-only camera, so if you want the road behind too, we'd go for a dual kit from the start.

What sensor does the E1 Pro use?

Vantrue lists a Sony STARVIS 2 IMX678, recording 4K at 30fps with HDR.

Does it need a hardwire kit for parking mode?

Yes. Vantrue says to power it from a hardwire kit or another constant supply for parking mode to work properly.