VIOFO A229 Pro 2CH review

If you want clear front and rear footage for a claim, the A229 Pro 2CH is the one we'd look at first. VIOFO publishes a Sony STARVIS 2 IMX678 at the front and an IMX675 at the rear, with HDR on both. The front records 4K at 30fps and the rear 2K at 30fps. Most dual kits still ship a weaker rear camera, so that rear spec makes a real difference when you line up published resolutions and sensors.

Parking mode uses the same three options as other current VIOFOs: buffered auto-event, time-lapse and low bitrate. Buffered mode keeps 15 seconds before an event and 30 seconds after. Here's the catch: VIOFO requires the HK4 or HK6 hardwire kit, and until you've fitted one, parking mode isn't really available.

The night grade is an A, thanks to the sensor pair and dual HDR. That's the highest grade we'll give from a maker's published details alone.

We'd pick the Nextbase 622GW instead if you want a polarising filter in the bezel, What3Words and a 3-inch screen. And if your car's parked on the street overnight and that's why you're shopping, we'd go for the Thinkware U3000 PRO.

Who this suits

You want front and rear evidence, including a 2K STARVIS 2 rear.

You'll fit a hardwire kit so buffered parking can run once the ignition's off.

When another camera fits better

You'd rather not hardwire the camera.

You want a large Nextbase screen as the main way you use it, or built-in radar for overnight parking.

What works well

• STARVIS 2 sensors on both cameras, with a 2K rear — uncommon at this level
• Buffered parking is specified clearly, rather than only a G-sensor wake
• Dual-band Wi-Fi and voice control are listed by the manufacturer

What to watch for

• Hardwire kit is sold separately
• No built-in radar, so overnight power draw is higher than a Thinkware radar setup
• The 2.0-inch class screen is smaller than a Nextbase 622GW

Common questions

Why does this lead the Best 5?

Because it's got STARVIS 2 sensors front and rear, a 2K rear, and buffered parking once it's hardwired. On the published specs, that's a strong lead for evidence quality.

Which hardwire kit do I need?

VIOFO lists the HK4 or HK6.

Should I choose the A229 Pro or the U3000 PRO?

We'd go for the A229 Pro if front-and-rear footage quality is your priority, and the U3000 PRO if built-in radar for overnight parking is the main reason you're buying.