The Thinkware X1000 dashcam is from a brand that really knows how to shoot video on the go. This model has also proved popular with buyers so far, and it’s easy to see why.
Everything is included in the box, including two cameras, to help you get the most out of dashcam surveillance. The downside is that you have to hardwire it to get the most out of its potential. But if you don’t mind this, or the absence of built-in GPS or Wi-Fi for cloud backups, this is one of the best dash cameras money can buy.
Take a look inside the box and you will find everything you need. There are the two cameras, one of which is the front-facing unit and the other a smaller rear-facing model. You will also be provided with the cabling required to complete the hardwiring installation.
While this wiring can be done by a beginner, you may be better off spending your time and money with someone installing it for you. The great advantage of this route is of course that it is always ready for use and that any cabling can be safely concealed.
Conveniently, Thinkware also equips the X1000 with a sturdy 32GB microSD card, which can be used as is. Alternatively, you can always add a larger capacity if you wish. Putting that in is easy enough, while setting up and using the camera can be done using the convenience of a 3.5-inch touchscreen on the back of the housing.
There are also the various adhesive pads needed to attach the cameras to your preferred surfaces. The quick start guide, meanwhile, is useful as you navigate through the installation procedure, although it could be more comprehensive. You also get a rugged plastic mount for the main camera, which helps keep it from moving around too much once it’s in place.
The device itself feels nicely put together, as does the rear camera. Using the Thinkware X1000 is also child’s play. Once you turn it on, the touchscreen gives you access to all the core features and functions.
This works very well, with self-explanatory icons guiding you through the tasks. There’s also no need to mess around with a support app, which could be of particular interest to some users who want a more ‘direct action’ route with their dashcam.
In terms of performance, the Thinkware X1000 delivers everything you would expect from a premium dashcam solution. There’s a creaky little Sony IMX335 5.14 Starvis image sensor packed into the sleek lines of the case. Working with the lens, the footage turns out to be really impressive.
You also have options to adjust shooting settings via the touchscreen, although we found the Thinkware X1000 to work well straight away. It even starts recording without manual input, right from the start. This isn’t necessarily what everyone wants, mind you.
As for the resulting images, Quad HD expects 1440p, 2560 x1440 resolution from both cameras and they both also deliver a wide 156-degree field of view.
The results in both bright light and darkness were impressive, with lots of sharp details and a decent dynamic range thanks to the HDR processing. Overall, we found the results impressive in a variety of conditions.
If you take the time to get the Thinkware X1000 wired up, you might as well take advantage of other features and functions in its arsenal. For example, there is a parking monitoring mode that detects any unwanted movement around your precious vehicle.
If you’re looking for even more vehicle protection help, it might be wise to pick up the extra radar detector companion. An optional GPS accessory is also required if you want to use Thinkware’s Lane Departure Modes.
There’s a lot to like about the Thinkware X1000. It’s great that you can get started in a very short time. If you get the Dash Cam Accessory package from Thinkware, this model can be plugged into your car through the wall outlet, eliminating the hassle of hard wiring. However, this and the other accessories mentioned will add to the overall cost unless you have an existing DC-in connector that does the same job.
Best of all, though, is the X1000’s ease of use. The touchscreen works well and the menus are intuitive. In this regard, the Thinkware X1000 ticks most of the right boxes, for those who need a front and rear model.
There may be no built-in GPS or Wi-Fi for cloud backups, but if that’s not important to you and your priority is a stress-free, powerful dashcam, the Thinkware X1000 should be high on your shopping list.
Should I buy the Thinkware X1000?
