Review: Viofo A129 Duo dash cam front/rear with parking mode, 1080p30 f/1.6
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- čas přidán 20. 08. 2024
- In-depth overview of Viofo's A129 Duo car camera system, featuring front & rear 1080p30 cameras using Sony sensors behind f/1.6 lenses, proper hard-wired parking mode functionality, and wi-fi connectivity. As with previous Viofo cameras power is via USB standard, the included GPS mount records speed and location data, and they have optional polarizing filters.
Hardwire install video: • How to: Hardwire insta...
Update: The newer A129 Plus Duo (1440p60): • Review: Viofo A129 PLU...
If you buy anything using my BlackBoxMyCar links, you get 5% off and so do I...
US: blackboxmycar.com?ref:craig | Canada: blackboxmycar.ca?ref:craigs
A129 Duo & accessories ~ US: bit.ly/2UjMzh4 | Canada: bit.ly/2GWTucR
Other countries, use code CRAIG5 at checkout.
Amazon US ~
A129 Duo: amzn.to/31rfuRN
A129 Duo with 64 GB card: amzn.to/2YBVW0e
Hardwire/parking kit: amzn.to/2yKsp54
Polarizing filter: amzn.to/2KEHsTe
Viofo store for other kits and accessories: amzn.to/2lSsctK
Amazon UK ~
A129 Duo: amzn.to/2KocpfG
A129 Duo with 64 GB card: amzn.to/2KAL8Wj
Hardwire/parking kit: amzn.to/2YUeEeH
Polarizing filter: amzn.to/33pKraX
Viofo store for other kits and accessories: amzn.to/2KnQ8OU
Viofo website: www.viofo.com/...
Reviewed is firmware 1.8. Viofo firmware download:
support.viofo....
(or you can just use the Viofo app)
Using the links above helps support my channel and is appreciated!
Links (from the desc):
BlackBoxMyCar for 5% off ~ US: blackboxmycar.com?ref:craig | Canada: blackboxmycar.ca?ref:craigs | Other countries, use code CRAIG5 at checkout.
A129 Duo & accessories ~ US: bit.ly/2UjMzh4 | Canada: bit.ly/2GWTucR
Amazon US ~
A129 Duo: amzn.to/31rfuRN / Hardwire/parking kit: amzn.to/2yKsp54 / Other kits and accessories: amzn.to/2lSsctK
Amazon
UK ~ A129 Duo: amzn.to/2KocpfG / Hardwire/parking kit: amzn.to/2YUeEeH / Viofo store: amzn.to/2KnQ8OU
Hey I want to know about the sponsored video. Can you provide some way to contact you? Not able to see your email or anything
Update: Consider the newer A129 Plus Duo (1440p60). Review: czcams.com/video/0VgWKLdtAcA/video.html
so you're recommending the duo plus over this duo?
Holy smokes this was super informative! Thank you!
Hold up Brody! Haha nice review I think I skyped the power connection and all that. I must re-watch how it connects and all that. Thanks. You look alike Damian Lewis 😳😳
Hardwire install video: czcams.com/video/bAE4gbzCXJE/video.html
Thank you for taking time to make this video and for highlighting both pros and cons of this unit.
Thanks for taking the time to produce and post this video. I've save this particular video as it's so informative and suggestive in how to set up the A129 in the real world. Again, thanks!
nice quality cam ! i still using my 119 still works great for 2 years!
Very thorough and informative review. I actually viewed this after already buying the A129 Duo and initially I didn’t think I needed the rear camera at all because here in the U.S. if you ever get rear ended it’s almost always 100% of the other drivers fault however you made some excellent points about having the rear camera as a backup in case the front camera fails to capture a good view of a passing cars license plate. I don’t know how to view GPS info off of the footage with the standard windows software but I’m sure it’s easy enough to figure out with a few Google searches. Thanks!
You need to use a suitable dashcam playback software. I use "Dashcam Viewer" as demo'ed in the review.
You need a rear camera if the idiot who hits you does a runner
Your review is in microscopic details. Loved it.
I have the Viofo A129 Duo, the Viofo A129 IR Duo, and recently two Viofo A119 v3 used as a front/rear dashcam. I actually like using two single-channel dashcams for front/rear over a dedicated dual-channel dashcam because 1) Easier to wire if there is a power port in the rear, as is common on many SUV's 2) Can use two 256 GB cards for a total of 512 GB combined memory 3) The Viofo A119 v3 is higher resolution and can can run 60 fps front and rear simultaneously if desired. My main problem is that I want a 3-channel dashcam on cars that my young teenage kids drive, hence why I own the Viofo A129 IR Duo. In that car only, I added a spare Garmin dashcam as the rear cam for a combined front/cabin/rear three channel system.
Nice photography and editing :) Getting better all the time!
Looks a nice camera, definitely thinking about getting one after the review. Thank you, as always for posting, your videos are very well presented and informative.
I like that final shot
I really love to have this kind of dash cam. Need to review futhermore for this. But overall i think i love it😁😁
Thank you craig, very good theral review, you reviewed every thing that we need to know
Splendid review, covering everything you need to know before buying. Excellent.
I love my a129, you can see footage right away on your phone and see how fast you're going.
Your avatar lol
bro you legit got me with that avatar, how could you do that to me
Excellent review with sound reasoning. Much appreciated.
I thought the time laps could be even triggered ? and so far you are the only one to mention that the Motion detection can not be turned off... Thanks for the in depth review. I was thinking of getting this camera for my new car I am leasing, but I am not sure....
Not at this stage. These features are things that can be implemented in firmware so they might change. But at the time of review/writing, the time-lapse and the low BR parking modes are both always-on. Event triggering gives a full BR recording with sound.
I just installed one of these and after a couple of weeks I might experiment with the 5 fps mode. Even a 64 Gb micro SD card fills up after 4 hours at 30 fps. BTW, I decided to buy this after almost being run off the road by a city bus driver.
Is 64gb enough for you and do you still use this particular dashcam?
@@KawaiiAznPanda7 Yes, and yes. The reason for the 64Gb SD card is that I'm usually only going to need the last 10 minutes of video, but a larger drive means less wear and tear on the whole thing.
@@cmonkey63 Thank you for responding! I just bought this dashcam and on the lookout for a micro sd.
@@KawaiiAznPanda7 My only advice: be mindful of the quality of the SD card. Make sure you get one that is made for security cameras, and not the cheapest kind that you might stick in a smart phone or camera. They are more expensive (duh) but worth it. They have to work hard. Good luck!
@@cmonkey63 thanks for the info! I hear high endurance ones are the way to go so I think I’ll get one
Just a tid bit of information. Bluetooth doesn't have the bandwidth required to stream video. Which is why it uses wifi. Fun fact, this is also why dji drones use wifi.
Agreed, parking mode consumes a lot of the car's battery, even on low fps. After having to replace my battery, I think I'll disable parking mode. Still fantastic as a driving camera. Perhaps a usb battery pack would do better (cheaper, probably better with cycling every day).
That would be the next upgrade I agree. Bit of extra budget for a decent USB power bank tho along with a powerful enough charger to juice it only while engine running.
i had a cheaper one and it kept turning off after about 1 year of usage. this was my second choice but I'm seeing mixed reviews on amazon. thank you for mentioning the angle of the cables.
Have you bought it yet? If you did, can you tell me your view of things, since I have seen plenty of bad comments on this dashcam after about 1 year of usage?
The Hardwire kit works by plugging into the square base, i just found out and it’s less cumbersome.
You were right. Held off buying and waited for 4K and what do you know Vifo released a 4k A129 Pro duo. Set me back $400 AUD with a bunch of accessories and a 128 go SD card. Waiting for it to arrive in a few days.
Can you tell me your view of the dashacm, since I have seen plenty of bad comments on this dashcam after about 1 year of ussage?
@@imeprezime1069 gotta say. Wasn’t that happy with it. Was for my dads car. Starts randomly beeping for no reason often. Seems to not have power often which is odd. Quality is okay, high def. Camera is quite bulky, especially the rear one compared to newer ones on the market now.
For a bit extra, I just bought a new car and installed a BlackVue DR750s dual system and its amazing. Parking mode which doesn’t drain the battery and records for at least 24hrs or more depending on how much driving I’ve done to charge the battery. Quality is very good. Cameras are compact and well built, much better than Viofos. The app is better as well I find.
Thanks for the video. Really helped me a lot.
Been having a lot of issues with rexing cameras lately. Sounds like I might be trying one of these. Rexing also needs to offer a polarizing filter, don't know why they haven't figured that out.
Hi Craig,
Excellent review! You really deserve more subs and likes. Question: Do both cameras have motion sensor? Can you hardwire it to external Powerbank for Parking Mode? What is the maximum compatible SD card? Thanks again for the great review.
Motion sensing works via both cameras yes, it's just done in software. Yes you could use a powerbank. Supports up to 256 GB.
Awesome info, I just order one can't wait to get it so I can play with it the one I have coming is in 4k.
Instantly recognised that Meadowbank carpark.
👀
Can I say this is a great review.You seem to have balanced the good and bad in this dashcam. Parking mode will be an issue with my peugeot 3008 suv as all peugeot have eco mode that cuts power to electrics after 30mins when parked.
There will be circuits that have permanent power. Watch my install video linked above to see how to find them.
@@CraigsDIY Hi.Further to my recent reply. You may or may not be aware that the rear view camera cable can interfer with DAB sets. As long as the lead has a sheald( outer braded ground) there shouldn't be a problem.It may be the video feed freq that's the issue here? Again excellent video.Other half wants a nextbase two lens front device Does have built in battery for parking mode....not sure but.will never see through my tiny rear window.
The rear camera is digitally connected to the front by USB, which is just a 5 V circuit. I very much doubt it will interfere with DAB. The Nextbase looks interesting but a rear cam at the rear is hard to beat.
@@CraigsDIY Exactly what I've mentioned to wife.Think a £22,000 motor needs full protection certainly at the rear.Thanks again
Excellent Review
Great review. Helpful. I'm thinking about getting the 129pro duo, for the purpose of catching a person who is keying my car. Based on your experience with the a129, would you say it's a good choice? Regarding the battery being eaten up, i'm also considering getting an external battery. And advice would be well appreciated.
Great review.
Thanks for an excellent review. What do you think: Viofo A129 DUO for $234 (AUD) or Viofo A129 DUO PRO $369? I think the difference with the pro is 4k video. My gut feel is the $234 is better value still, and good enough video quality.
Watch some demos and decide for yourself. 4K is better for sure, but there is more to it than pixel count. Much of the footage on a dash cam that is 'no good' is because of motion blur, and higher res doesn't fix that. The rear cam on that Duo Pro is still the old 1080 as well, which is annoying. But the front is certainly sharper.
Great vids! Wondering how I know that parking mode is functioning? What indicators am I looking for on the display and are there any beeps?
WiFi is for showing police what happens at the scene when you’re at the scene. Traditional way of viewing micro sd is for gathering quality evidence for insurance etc...
Very informative clip..thank- you
great review
isnt the pro version 4k?
Hi Craig, Thank you for the upload. I have been looking at one of these. ( lucky you been sent one for a review, free) the price here in NZ by the time you buy the hard wired kit and polarizing filters adds up to about $400 looking at trademe. I have wanted one of these to replace the a118 i have been using for the last few years. It was good to see a true representation of what the recording is like in real New Zealand conditions with the CPL filters on. What is the name of the windows software you used to view the footage with the maps ? Thanks.
The software is Dashcam Viewer. $400 is silly NZ pricing. Have a look at the kits on Amazon per links above, the international shipping is peanuts and you'll avoid GST.
@@CraigsDIY a few years ago i tried buying the a118 from amazon US and the sale was blocked, something about US regulations not been able to send cameras outside the US. maybe that has changed now. thanks again. i will have a look and give it ago.
It'll be fine. You can also buy from Viofo direct (ex-China), you could compare the total pricing, only downside would be slower shipping.
i understoof (from other reviews) that only the pro (4k) version records before the g-sensor is triggered as well, due to buffer recording)
Will the A129 pro work on Mercedes G? I am asking this becouse of the windshield angle. Can the camera be turned upward enough so I don't see just the bonet of the car?
Yes.
Hi, great review. Is there a way to overlap the loop recording? I have set it to 3 mins, but there are 2 seconds missing after each 3 minute interval. Also, is there a limit to the locked video footage after clicking the triangle exclamation button to save and lock a recording? I had a few recordings locked and noticed it didn't auto lock a video footage after an accident, I thought the G Sensor would have activated that. Finally, is there a way to auto connect the dash cam to mobile after initial set up when you activate the WiFi on the dashcam? Sorry for all the questions, but would appreciate it if you have the time to answer them. TIA
No I don't think so. There shouldn't be any footage missing tho. Have you tried different software viewer. I don't think there's a limit to locked footage beyond card space. G-shock sensor should work, set it to high sensitivity. If you leave the wifi switched on it will stay on, but it's not recommended for the reasons discussed in the video. As to auto-connecting with e.g. your phone, that depends on the client and how it's configured. Default Android set-up will prefer stronger wifi signal and internet, for example.
Great review. I purchased a Viofo A119 Pro just over 12 months ago and have used some of the footage in videos, brilliant camera.
I use three micro SD cards ( 2 x SanDisk and 1 x Samsung) all are 128GB. Recently I noticed a firmware update for the camera on the Viofo website, downloaded and installed it in the camera but then problems started. Since updating the firmware the camera will not record, it beeps and shows a blue screen advising memory error. I have tried formatting each of the cards multiple times in the camera and via a computer but to no avail, records for three seconds then blue screen with memory error. All three cards will work perfectly in kaiserbaas X450 sports cameras but not the Viofo anymore. I even purchased new cards thinking the orignal cards may be faulty but same error message.
I have contacted Viofo and have tried a couple of options they advised including re-formatting the cards with guiformat2.exe (support.viofo.com/a/solutions/articles/19000046583) but no joy yet.
Have you or anyone else on here experienced a similar problem and if so, how did you resolve it?
Failing all options, I do have my eye on the 129 duo model so may be easier just to upgrade and replace the A119.
I'm based in the central plateau, stones throw from Ruapehu.
I'm not familiar with the A119 Pro, but in my experience they are all glitchy with particular firmwares. I just wasted 2 hrs thanks to Viofo's bugged v2.1 firmware for the A129 Duo that completely breaks its parking mode. My only suggestion is downgrade to the old firmware that you knew worked to expectations.
@@CraigsDIY Thanks for your reply Craig. How do I downgrade to the earlier firmware, where do I find it?
Hi Craig, I had a resolution to the memory error issue I was experiencing with my A119 Pro after downloading the updated firmware file.
By chance I was on the VIOFO website this afternoon and noted the updated A119 Pro firmware file had been removed and replaced with the previous file the camera had been operating on.
I downloaded and installed the file in the camera and 'presto' the camera is now working again with nil errors and I didn't even have to format the microSD cards before use so a good result all round.
What dash cam software do you use for video reviewing?
Did I misunderstand, you can't use the internet on your phone while the camera is on ? I am thinking of installing this system in my work van and being able to get online during the working day is vital. thanks in advance.
Mobile internet will work, I was saying you can't connect to two wifi networks simultaneously. But as explained the wifi functionality is really more for set-up and doesn't work well for regular interaction.
Why the hell is that rear cam cable so damn thick?
Thicker = more shielded and less interference
For you it is HELL, for me it is heaven, interference must absolutely be avoided
I've installed mine with the hardwire kit, however, mine works as designed in parking mode even though the hardwire kit is plugged into the GPS unit. What are the side effects you referred to regarding plugging the hardwire kit into the GPS?
Apparently it won't auto-switch to/from parking mode, it should be blind to the ACC circuit that way. Viofo instruct as much. Hence the right angle USB plug intended to go in the side.
@@CraigsDIY hmmm.
I'll have to examine more of my own dash cam videos more closely. As of right now, it appears the video's I've reviewed are working perfectly with parking mode using the power supply in the GPS, resulting in larger files sizes during operation vs smaller file sizes while being parked.
I'll also try the recommended installation method to see if the results change and let you know what I discover.
I assume it's auto switching to that mode based on lack of movement, for which it doesn't require the 3-wire kit.
@@CraigsDIY
Well, here’s day one findings
Viofo A129 Duo
Firmware is based off of the latest Viofo firmware v1.9, however it’s modified by BCHobbyist, firmware Mod: FWA129_MOD-8Wk
Front camera records @ 28Mbs
Rear camera records @ 16Mbs
The Viofo HK3 hardwire kit is plugged into the GPS unit, not the dash cam.
Settings are all set to default except:
EV Exposure front -1/3 and rear +1/3 (rear tinted window).
Loop recording changed to 2 minute recording loops
Parking mode set to “Low Bitrate Recording”
Frequency set to 60Hz (USA)
The evidence:
The dash cam beeps about 2 seconds after turning the vehicle on or off, signifying a change in video performance recordings. After reviewing the video recordings, an immediate change in video performance is confirmed when the vehicle is turned on or off.
When the vehicle is on, front camera recording file sizes @ 28.776 Mbs are 419 - 420 MB, and rear camera recording file sizes @ 16.484 Mbs are 242 MB
When the vehicle is off, both front and rear camera recordings are @ 3.863-3.864Mbs each, and both front and rear file sizes are 60.7 MB each.
All I can add to the facts is I drive a Honda. Honda vehicles have fuse box circuits with constant power, circuits with power that remain on for 30 minutes after the vehicle is turned off, and circuits with power that turns off immediately when the vehicle is turned off. I deliberately isolated the circuits with the red wire going to constant power, the black wire grounded to the vehicle, and the yellow wire going to power off when the vehicle is off.
Initially, I too assumed the same as you did, with regard to the dashcam going into parking mode after sensing no motion for a few minutes. Interestingly, the evidence is decisive that that isn’t the case at all. Perhaps the issue was software based and not hardware based, and the new v1.9 firmware base has addressed and corrected the issue?
Additionally, when setting the settings, I did it on the dash cam menu it self and not through the phone app. I’ve noticed inconsistencies with using the phone app. Furthermore, I’ve also noticed some settings aren’t available on the phone app while they are readily available on the dash cam menu it self. Such as “low bitrate parking mode”, not available on the app but shows up on the dash cam menu. Could these software conflicts be contributing possibly to whether it works when using the power through the GPS. Yes? Maybe?
Tomorrows update will be with WDR turned on because I’ve heard WDR reduces Mbs. I’m not expecting any performance changes, but we shall see.
@@CraigsDIY
Well, it's verified. The performance with the WDR turned on shows little to no benefit in video quality and clarity. There's a slight color tone difference, but I really don't see any benefit with it and it taxes the processor. In areas where it was maybe a slight bit brighter, it was significantly grainier. In my opinion, the quality diminished with WDR turned on and there's no benefit in video quality and visibility that can't be duplicated by postrecording software if need be done.
Additionally, I received a message directly from Viofo administration regarding the parking mode with the HK3 hardwire kit plugged into the GPS. Viofo responded by saying they have heard their customers and corrected the parking mode issue which exists with the previous model dash cams prior to the Viofo A129, but that the Viofo A129 parking mode works correctly with the HK3 hardwire kit whether it's plugged directly into the dash cam or plugged directly into the GPS unit. Only the Viofo dash cam models prior to the A129 have this issue, but it is corrected with the A129 model series.
I just picked this up, i am able to do 2k 60fps and 1080p 30fps at the same time....
assuming firmware update? or newer model?
Hi. Are you interested in reviewing Vantrue E2 dash cam?
If i do not need to use parking mode for this unit - what is the advantage of hard wiring compared to 12V outlet?
That menu layout looks like the same as they ROVE R2-4K
Does parking mode work with the rear camera too or just the front cam?
Is there any option to inactivate the screen while the camera works in order not to distract me during the driving?
It screen-saves (turns off) after a configurable delay.
w to connect cellink neo to viofo4k dashcam as there is no usb connection
How do you test the dashcam at home? What kind of power source do you need to do so?
I've just got the Viofo A129 Pro Duo, but since I won't be able to install it for a few weeks I'd like to test it to make sure everything is working properly. Cheers
It's a USB power source. So just use the included cable and plug it into any 5 V USB phone charger.
@@CraigsDIY awesome! Thank you so much 👍
Do u get alarm warning if parking mode is activated
hm... perhaps if you use a powerbank your do not need the hard-wire kit?
You can use a powerbank. The hardwire kit is still necessary to do the ACC switching.
Is there any other company I can buy the hardwire set from? (Not viofo)
having no reverse camera in my car, it would be nice if I could use the rear camera of the Vİofo for that as well. Is there a way to split the line signal and produce an AV to go to the car infotainment system?
No it's digital, so not unless you have the IT skills to intercept the digital video stream and work out how to decode it. I'd also say a rear dashcam is more interested in having a good view of the road behind, from a high position, and not necessarily what a reversing camera wants (lower level, angled down to see rear bumper, etc).
I have bought a hardware kit to make the camera work while the car is off and make it a recording while in motion only, but I want to make it work like a normal dash cam while the vehicle is moving. How do I switch between the two modes?
هل لقيت حل لسالفة الدخول على واي فاي الكاميرا والكاميرا بوضعية الوقوف parking mode?
Where do you buy it for so cheap I keep seeing it for $249???
thank you craig, great video. I installed a 129 duo and whenever the memory gets full, it starts beeping, showing a message that all data will be deleted. I have set looping to 3 minutes and I thought it will automatically overwrite whenever it reaches the limits, keeping only the clips that have been selected. do I have to confirm overwriting everytime it gets full??
It should and no, something is wrong. #1 have you updated the camera to the latest firmware? #2 what is the SD card. I have had issues with two Viofo cards now, and switched my camera to a SanDisk High Endurance which has improved things. This camera seems to be sensitive to any glitches on the cards.
@@CraigsDIY thanks, I will try a different card. firmware is up to date.
@@CraigsDIY after chaning it several times and formatting it FAT32 with windows, it seems to work now ... annoying but anyway ... where did you get the info that the power has to be on the side instead of the GPS to work correctly?
Can the display screen be shut off during driving to prevent distracting the driver, if so, how can you do it?
Yes, there is a Screen Saver function in the system settings where you can set it in different time length.
So without the circuit, parking mode does not work…
You can action it manually or auto via GPS altho I understand the mode is limited. Better to wire it up properly with battery saver.
Can it be use the rear camera to the inside of the car? I am a uber driver, so that I could record inside my car for protection
It wouldn't give you a good picture at night. However, Viofo do a version with an IR-lit (night vision) interior camera. It is the exact same package, with the rear camera just replaced with the IR version. See amzn.to/2KRZpPn
So i shouldn't need a battery pack to record time lapse at 5fps for say 8 hours, typically?
8 hours will be optimistic, depending on size of your battery.
@@CraigsDIY I've been using the cam hard wired for about two Weeks now and I get up to 10 hours. Works great! Thx for getting back to me. Great work on your vids.
That was one SHADY dood lookin' in your car ... 😝
Rare cam , how to turn the footage ? A
@ 12:45 what do you mean about it not being good from a legal point of view?
He means that using the video as evidence in a lawsuit might backfire on you if the recorded speed is over the legal limits.
Silviu S I was wondering about that.
didn't understand why you had to use this wifi-mode...?
It's useful for the things outlined in the video. But not much else. You don't have to use it.
@@CraigsDIY thanx! (and sorry for having been a bit lazy listening to you in the video...)
Any cons to this like you do with the plus?
None of these A129 cameras are great in my experience of both the ones I have. The old A119 was lesser featured but seems much more reliable, still going fine in our Golf.
Amazon UK selling this for £150 now 😒
Viofo a119 v3
Viofo dash cam is last sh*t - I had two and both are defect after no a year (one after 6 month). Front camera doesn't work, rear camera records only in black/white, no upgrade is possible... For such one poor quality it's too expensive, actually it's a no go for anywhere priced products. Especially there is no support from Viofo team!
I defenitly don't recommend this Product (and manufacturer)!
the review is good, but you need to cut your nails