Thinkware U1000 Plus 4K Dash Cam: An Upgrade for the Dashcam World
In the ever-evolving world of dash cams, the Thinkware U1000 Plus 4K Dash Cam arrives as a highly anticipated upgrade, refining an already impressive device to meet the growing demands of modern drivers. This latest iteration builds upon the success of the U1000 while introducing new features, improved technology, and smarter functionality that make it one of the most advanced dash cams available today.
At first glance, the U1000 Plus retains much of the sleek, low-profile design that made its predecessor such a hit. The new all-black trim replaces the silver accents, giving the device a more discreet look that blends seamlessly into the car’s interior. It’s a perfect example of Thinkware’s commitment to functionality and aesthetics, ensuring that the dash cam doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view while still delivering powerful surveillance.
A Leap in Video Quality and Recording Capabilities
One of the biggest upgrades comes in the form of video quality. Equipped with a 4K Sony STARVIS 1 IMX515 image sensor, the U1000 Plus pushes forward with a sharper, clearer recording experience, capturing fine details such as license plates and street signs with stunning precision. The addition of dewarping technology reduces the lens distortion commonly found in wide-angle dash cams, providing a more natural and accurate representation of the road.
The biggest challenge for any dash cam, however, is night-time recording. Thinkware has introduced Super Night Vision 3.0, an upgraded feature that enhances low-light performance. In testing, the improvement is noticeable, particularly when High Dynamic Range (HDR) is enabled, which helps balance bright and dark areas in the frame. Although the low-light capabilities don’t yet match the performance of some competitors, such as the Viofo A229 Pro, the overall image clarity in challenging conditions has been significantly improved over the original U1000 model.
While the front camera gets a serious boost, the rear camera’s performance is a step in a different direction. The U1000 Plus moves away from the IMX335 sensor used in the previous model and instead features a 1080p Silicon Optronics F352 sensor. This shift results in a noticeable decrease in sharpness and color accuracy. The rear camera does support HDR, which helps to maintain clarity in high-contrast scenarios, but there are some reported artifacts in overly bright areas. While it still provides solid backup footage, those who rely heavily on rear-facing recording may notice a drop in overall quality compared to the original U1000.
Smarter Features for a Modern Driving Experience
Beyond video quality, the Thinkware U1000 Plus refines its feature set to offer a smarter and more efficient driving experience. The introduction of High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) allows for better compression of high-resolution footage, meaning users can store more 4K video files without sacrificing quality. This is an important upgrade for those who rely on their dash cams for extended recording sessions.
Thinkware has also enhanced the parking mode, ensuring it can withstand high temperatures without affecting performance. This means that even in hot summer conditions, the camera remains reliable, capturing footage without the risk of overheating.
The Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) has been fine-tuned, though some features may still require adjustments. One particular function, the “Front Vehicle Departure Warning,” has been described as overly sensitive, often alerting drivers the moment the vehicle ahead begins to move. While this can be helpful in stop-and-go traffic, some users may find it a bit aggressive. There’s currently no option to tweak its sensitivity, which would have been a welcome addition for those who prefer more control over their alerts.
For added convenience, Bluetooth connectivity makes pairing the dash cam with a smartphone much easier than before. Although Wi-Fi is still required for file transfers, the Bluetooth feature simplifies the initial setup, allowing for a more user-friendly experience when accessing settings and reviewing footage.
The Trade-Offs and Considerations
With every upgrade, there are always trade-offs, and the U1000 Plus is no exception. While it introduces significant improvements in video compression, HDR technology, and overall stability, the downgraded rear camera sensor may disappoint some users who expected an across-the-board enhancement. If capturing ultra-sharp rear footage is a priority, the U1000 Plus may not feel like a complete upgrade over its predecessor.
For those upgrading from the original U1000, it’s also worth noting that while the front camera still works with the existing power cable, the rear camera requires a new front-to-rear connection due to an updated transmission method. Though it may seem like a minor inconvenience, this means that upgrading requires a complete installation rather than a simple camera swap.
Is the Thinkware U1000 Plus Worth the Upgrade?
As a single-lens, forward-facing dash cam, the Thinkware U1000 Plus delivers a noticeable improvement in video quality, smart features, and overall usability. The enhancements in low-light recording, parking mode, and video compression make it one of the best options in the premium dash cam market. The addition of Bluetooth support and improved heat resistance further solidifies its position as a top choice for drivers who demand reliability and high performance.
For those who prioritize front-facing 4K recording, the U1000 Plus is an excellent investment. If rear camera quality is a major factor, it may be worth considering how much of a downgrade is acceptable before making the switch. Despite this, Thinkware has once again pushed the boundaries of what a dash cam can do, proving that innovation in this space is far from over.
