Nextbase IQ 1K Smart Dash Cam with 4G Review
A good reason for buying a dashcam is to keep your vehicle safe from vandalism and dings that appear every time you go to the supermarket. Now, smart dash cams have advanced features to significantly enhance vehicle security, driver safety, and overall convenience. These devices connect to the Internet and offer more than a high level of security for your car. It can also be your eyes and ears for the vehicle when you are not in it. We recently tested a highly advanced smart dashcam with a suite of features that all drivers should have in their vehicles, but there was no visible screen for you or your riders to view. It's Nextbase IQ Smart Dash Cam, and here is our review.
What is Nextbase IQ Smart Dash Cam?
The NextBase iQ Smart Dash Cam is a state-of-the-art device that redefines vehicle security and driving convenience. Combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features, this 4G smart dash cam offers every driver unparalleled functionality and peace of mind. Here’s a detailed look at what the NextBase iQ Smart Dash Cam offers.
High-Definition Video Quality
At the core of the NextBase iQ is its impressive video resolution, which comes in three versions: 1K, 2K, and 4K. This high-definition capability ensures that every detail on the road is captured with stunning clarity, whether it’s license plate numbers, street signs, or unexpected events. The crystal-clear footage is crucial for providing irrefutable evidence in the event of an accident or traffic incident. It also comes with enhanced infrared night vision, 180 degree in-cabin field of view (FOV), and 140 degree FOV if you add a rear-view camera.
SmartSense Parking
One of the standout features of the NextBase iQ is its SmartSense Parking. This advanced function activates when your vehicle is parked, using built-in sensors to detect any motion or impact around your car. Suppose the dash cam senses any suspicious activity or a potential collision. In that case, it automatically starts recording, ensuring you have a comprehensive record of any incidents that occur while you’re away from your vehicle.
Guardian Mode Emergency SOS
The Guardian Mode Emergency SOS is a lifesaving feature designed to provide immediate assistance in an emergency. If the dash cam detects a severe impact, it can automatically send an SOS alert to emergency services, including your location and other critical details. This ensures that help is dispatched quickly, potentially reducing response times and improving outcomes in critical situations.
Witness Mode
In the event of an accident, the Witness Mode feature allows you to capture and upload crucial footage to the cloud instantly. This ensures that the video evidence is securely stored and accessible, even if the dash cam is damaged or stolen during the incident. Witness Mode is invaluable for protecting your interests and providing clear, indisputable proof of events.
Voice Control
Hands-free operation is made easy with voice control functionality. You can command the NextBase iQ Smart Dash Cam using simple voice commands, allowing you to focus on the road while still managing the dash cam’s features. This enhances safety by reducing distractions and enabling seamless interaction with the device.
Local and Cloud Video Storage
The NextBase iQ offers versatile storage options for your video recordings. Videos can be stored locally on a microSD card, ensuring that you always have access to your footage directly from the device. Additionally, the dash cam comes with a pre-installed 4G SIM card, which supports cloud storage for added security and convenience. However, please note that features like SmartSense Parking, Witness Mode, and Roadwatch AI require a Protect and Protect Plus premium subscription to activate.
Roadwatch AI (Coming Soon)
The NextBase iQ incorporates Roadwatch AI, a built-in proximity-sensing Spatial Awareness feature. This intelligent system monitors the surrounding environment, alerting you to potential hazards and providing real-time feedback to enhance your driving safety. Whether a sudden stop by the vehicle ahead or a pedestrian crossing the road, Roadwatch AI helps you stay aware and avoid accidents. The company informed us this feature will be available later this year (2024).
Connectivity and Subscription Plans
NextBase offers three tailored subscription plans—Solo, Protect, and Protect Plus—that provide various levels of video storage and advanced features to suit every driver's needs. These plans ensure your footage is securely stored and easily accessible, offering peace of mind and enhanced functionality for your NextBase dash cam. You can also store videos locally with the supplied Nextbase SD card.
Solo Plan
The Solo Plan is designed for users who need essential cloud storage for their dashcam videos. This free entry-level plan provides a straightforward solution for securely storing and accessing your recordings.
Key Features:
- No Cloud Storage: With this plan, the user does not get any to store video footage in the cloud. To ensure your essential recordings are safe and accessible anytime, anywhere, you will use the Nextbase formatted SD card which comes pre-installed. You can also upload videos from your library to mynextbase.com and get unlimited cloud storage for 30 days.
- Nextbase SD Card: Easily access your stored videos via the NextBase SD Card, allowing for quick downloads and sharing. The Nextbase SD card comes pre-installed in your Nextbase IQ Dash Cam.
- Real-Time Text Notifications: Get alert notifications from your Nextbase IQ in real time.
- Cost: Free
The Solo Plan is perfect for cost-conscious drivers who want a simple and reliable way to back up their dash cam videos locally with an SD card, but don't want to pay a monthly fee for cloud storage, and any additional smart features.
Protect Plan
Enhance your driving safety and security with the Nextbase Protect Plan. For just $9.99 a month or $99.99 annually, you gain access to a comprehensive suite of features designed to keep you and your vehicle protected at all times. Here's what the plan includes:
Key Features:
- 4G Data Included: Stay connected on the go with integrated 4G data, ensuring your dash cam can upload footage and send alerts in real time.
- iQ App: Control and monitor your Nextbase IQ dash cam through the user-friendly iQ app, available on both iOS and Android.
- Voice Control: Enjoy hands-free operation with intuitive voice commands, making it easier to interact with your dash cam while driving.
- Real-time Image Notifications: Receive instant alerts with images when any event is detected, helping you stay informed about what’s happening around your vehicle.
- Live View: Access live footage from your dash cam anytime, anywhere, through the iQ app. This feature is perfect for checking in on your car when you're away.
- Smart Sense Parking: Get notifications of any incidents or movement detected around your parked car, ensuring you’re aware of potential threats or damages.
- Witness Mode: Automatically captures footage and alerts you during critical situations, providing crucial evidence in case of accidents or disputes.
- Roadwatch AI: Leveraging advanced AI technology, this feature helps monitor and analyze driving conditions to enhance safety and provide real-time alerts.
- Guardian Mode: Keep a watchful eye on your vehicle with Guardian Mode, which provides additional layers of security and monitoring, especially useful when you’re not in the car.
- Remote Alarm: Trigger an alarm remotely through the iQ app to deter potential thieves or vandals.
- Cloud Storage: Enjoy 30 days of cloud storage for your dash cam footage, ensuring important videos are safely backed up and accessible when you need them. This service protects customer footage based on a trigger of an event (or upload through the user's library in the Nextbase IQ) to ensure it is available for review at a later stage.
Subscribe to the Nextbase Protect Plan today to experience these powerful features and drive with peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle and footage are well-protected and easily accessible.
Protect Plus Plan
The Protect Plus Plan is NextBase's premium subscription offering. Upgrade your vehicle's security and enjoy comprehensive protection with the Nextbase Protect Plus Plan. Priced at $19.99 per month or $199.99 annually, this premium plan offers a robust suite of features to keep you and your vehicle safe. Here’s what the plan includes:
Key Features:
- 4G Data Included: Benefit from continuous connectivity with integrated 4G data, ensuring real-time uploads and alerts from your dash cam.
- iQ App: Seamlessly control and monitor your Nextbase IQ dash cam through the iQ app, compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
- Voice Control: Utilize hands-free voice commands for easy operation, enhancing convenience and safety while driving.
- Real-time Image Notifications: Receive immediate alerts with images whenever an event is detected, keeping you informed of your vehicle's status.
- Live View: The iQ app allows you to access live footage from your dash cam at any time, allowing you to check on your vehicle no matter where you are.
- Smart Sense Parking: Get notified of any movement or incidents around your parked car, ensuring you’re always aware of potential threats.
- Witness Mode: Automatically captures and sends alerts during critical situations, providing crucial evidence in the event of accidents or disputes.
- Roadwatch AI: Advanced AI technology monitors and analyzes driving conditions, offering real-time alerts to enhance your safety on the road.
- Guardian Mode: Adds an extra layer of security by monitoring your vehicle, especially when you’re not around.
- Remote Alarm: Deter thieves or vandals by triggering an alarm remotely through the iQ app.
- Cloud Storage: Securely back up your dash cam footage with 180 days of cloud storage, ensuring important videos are always accessible. This service protects customer footage triggered by an event (or uploaded through the library in the Nextbase IQ) to ensure it is available for review at a later stage.
- Multiple User Accounts: Share access with family members or colleagues, allowing multiple users to benefit from the Protect Plus Plan features.
- Emergency SOS: In case of an emergency, the SOS feature automatically contacts emergency services, providing your location and essential information.
- Automated Incident Back-Up: Ensures that footage of incidents is automatically saved and protected, providing reliable evidence when needed.
- Real-Time Notifications: Stay updated with instant notifications about any detected incidents or changes in your vehicle’s status.
The Protect Plus Plan is perfect for those who want the most out of their NextBase dash cam, offering extensive storage and a full range of advanced safety and monitoring features.
How to Choose the Right Nextbase Plan
Selecting the right subscription plan depends on your specific needs and how you use your NextBase dash cam. The Solo Plan offers no cloud storage but you can get basic needs for free, while the Protect Plan adds enhanced features and additional storage at an affordable cost. The Protect Plus Plan provides comprehensive coverage, maximum storage (180 days), and premium features for ultimate vehicle security and functionality. However, the monthly or annual rate might be too high for some users.
With NextBase’s flexible subscription plans, you can choose the level of service that best fits your requirements, ensuring your dash cam footage is always safe, accessible, and ready when needed.
How to install Nextbase IQ in your vehicle
Installing a dash cam can be a challenge for some users. You must find the perfect location for the dash cam so it doesn't obstruct your view. You have to run cables from the windshield to either an OBD port, fuse box, or even your car's rear window. Tucking the cables away so no one sees them, or trips over them is challenging. For the Nextbase IQ dash cam, I put together this installation guide. Follow these steps to install your Nextbase IQ dash cam in your vehicle efficiently:
- Unbox the Nextbase IQ Dash Cam:
- Open the box and ensure you have all the items listed in the package.
- Download the IQ App:
- Download the Nextbase IQ app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Select "Power your IQ" to get started.
- Clean the Windshield:
- Thoroughly clean the area of your windshield where you plan to mount the Nextbase IQ to ensure a secure and clear view.
- Connect the IQ Dash Cam:
- Use the cables that are appropriately supplied to connect the Nextbase IQ to your car’s OBD port or fuse box. At this stage, if you have a Nextbase rear-view camera, plug the cable into the IQ dash cam.
- Locate and Position the IQ Dash Cam:
- Use the IQ app to locate your IQ dash cam. Scan the QR code on the IQ to connect it. Use the app's Live View feature to find the optimal viewing angle. The best location is often on the passenger’s side of the rear-view mirror. Remember, the IQ does not have a display; you must use the app’s Live View to adjust the camera.
- Mount the Dash Cam and Rear-View Cameras:
- Once satisfied with the viewing angles, mount the IQ dash cam and rear-view cameras. Ensure all app viewing angles are comfortable. Use the provided tool to hide the cables running from the cameras to the OBD port or fuse box.
- Set Up Notifications and Subscriptions:
- In the IQ app, set up your notifications and alerts. Sign up for subscriptions required for 4G features like emergency SOS, witness mode, and remote notifications. Note: for this step, you must pick a plan to continue the setup process.
Tips for Easy Installation
- Use the Correct App:
- Ensure you download the Nextbase IQ app, not the generic Nextbase app, from the App Store or Google Play.
- Quick OBD Port Setup:
- The OBD port is typically located on the driver’s side, beneath the steering wheel. Using this port is quicker and easier than connecting to the fuse box, which requires comfort with electrical wiring.
- Mounting Challenges:
- Depending on your windshield, mounting the IQ dash cam can be tricky. Follow the instructions in the app for the best results.
- Cable Management:
- Use the supplied tool to hide the cables efficiently. This helps maintain a clean and professional look.
- Strong Adhesive:
- The adhesive tape on the IQ dash cam is solid. Use the app to find the best viewing angle before securing it. The app has a step to guide you through this process. Ensure all cables are connected before securing the dash cam, as connecting additional cables later can be difficult. A second adhesive strip is provided if you need to reposition the IQ dash cam after securing it.
Estimated Installation Time
- Experienced Users: Approximately 30 minutes.
- Novices: Over an hour, primarily due to the time required to run and hide the cables.
Following these instructions, you can set up your Nextbase IQ dash cam efficiently and ensure it is positioned correctly for optimal performance.
How much does Nextbase IQ dash cam cost?
The Nextbase IQ smart dash cam comes in three models: IQ IK, IQ 2K, and IQ 4K. For this review, I tested the IQ 1K (1080p) smart dash cam, costing $499.99. The IQ 4K (2160p) goes for $699.99, and the IQ 2K (1440p) is $599.99. All models are available on the company website, Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. The Nextbase IQ 4K and other models' prices are much lower on these retailer's sites. Best Buy is offering a 1-month free trial subscription with purchase. To see their pricing, click on the links below:
See pricing on Amazon.
See pricing on Best Buy
See pricing on Walmart
Performance of Nextbase IQ Smart 1K Dash Cam with 4G
How well did the Nextbase IQ smart dash cam during our testing? It did pretty well. After several months of testing the Nextbase IQ smart 1K dash cam in my Ford Edge, I’m thoroughly impressed with its performance and features. Here’s an in-depth look at what stood out during my testing and some areas that could use improvement.
What I Liked About the Nextbase IQ
- SmartSense Parking
- This feature was a standout during testing. When parked in busy areas like Costco parking lots, the dash cam recorded any incidents, such as doors banging into the car or bumps from other vehicles. This provides peace of mind when leaving your car unattended.
- Video Quality
- The 1K (1080p) video quality is good, offering clear and detailed footage. The stored videos were also impressive, providing crisp visuals. While I didn’t test the rear-view camera, my past experience with the Nextbase 622 dash cam suggests that the quality would be equally high. However, I saw many user reviews during my research and found many users experiencing issues with the rear camera when connected to the IQ. Something I would recommend you research before buying the IQ.
- 360-Degree Security
- By adding a rear-view camera, the IQ offers a full 360-degree security field around the vehicle, which is a unique feature not commonly found in other dash cams.
- Built-in AI
- The built-in AI helps the IQ camera distinguish between normal noise and real threats, similar to smart outdoor security cameras. This is a valuable feature for ensuring relevant alerts.
- Voice Control
- The voice control feature is very convenient for hands-free operation while driving.
- 4G Connectivity
- The included 4G connectivity ensures that the dash cam can upload footage and send real-time alerts from anywhere.
- Cable Management
- The fitting tool used for tucking away power cords was very useful. Additionally, the option to power the dash cam via the car’s OBD port or fuse box is a smart design choice, making installation flexible and convenient.
- Field of View
- The 180-degree field of view inside the car is ample, providing a wide-angle view of the cabin. The exterior FOV is also
- Mounting and Adhesive
- The 3M adhesive pad provides a strong suction for the Nextbase “click&go” mount. Just ensure your windshield is clean before mounting the dash cam.
- Local Video Storage
- The option to store videos locally using a Nextbase SD card is great. However, using non-Nextbase SD cards can lead to issues like freezing or recording gaps.
- Flexible Subscriptions
- The ability to activate and deactivate the monthly subscription for smart features is a cost-saving benefit. This flexibility allows you to pay for the features only when you need them.
- Roadwatch AI (Coming Soon)
- Although not yet available, I’m excited about the Roadwatch AI feature. It will notify you when someone approaches or walks by your car within a customizable range. This will be particularly useful for those who park on busy streets. However, you will need to adjust the sensitivity to avoid excessive notifications.
Areas for Improvement
- Subscription Requirement
- Many of the smart features require a subscription, which might be a drawback for some users.
- Dash Cam Symbols
- The IQ dash cam uses symbols instead of a display, and understanding these symbols requires referring to the owner’s manual. A chart included in the box would be helpful.
- Sensitivity Adjustments
- Each feature, especially parking and guardian modes, requires sensitivity adjustments to avoid excessive notifications.
- Alerts from Familiar Users
- The dash cam often sends alerts when I or a family member get into the car. A facial recognition feature to filter these out would be beneficial.
- Cloud Interaction Delay
- There is a slight delay (about 3 seconds) in actions recorded due to cloud interaction, which can be a bit annoying.
- Subscription Costs
- The subscription costs are relatively high, especially the premium Protect Plus plan ($19.99 per month) but you do get 180 days of cloud storage. It would be nice if there was a plan that offered 7 days (rolling) of cloud storage for $4.99 .
- High MSRP
- The MSRP for the IQ dash cam is high, but there are often deals available that make it more affordable.
- Voice Command Limitations
- The voice commands are basic and do not connect to smartphone assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa.
- Can't Receive Incoming Calls
- It would have been a great feature to be able to call the Nextbase IQ dash cam and communicate with drivers directly, considering that the device is equipped with a speaker and operates on a 4G connection.
Overall, the Nextbase IQ smart 1K dash cam performed exceptionally well during my testing. Its advanced features, high video quality, and robust security options make it a top choice for anyone looking to enhance their vehicle's safety and monitoring capabilities. However, the reliance on subscriptions for full functionality and some minor usability issues could be areas for potential improvement.
User Feedback on the Nextbase IQ Smart Dash Cam with 4G
I decided to do a little extra reserarch on the Nextbase IQ Smart Dash Cam and found mixed reviews from users, highlighting both its strengths and areas needing improvement. Check out what I found:
Positive Aspects: Many users appreciate the advanced features of the dash cam, such as SmartSense Parking, Witness Mode, and the anticipated Roadwatch AI. These features significantly enhance vehicle security and provide peace of mind by monitoring the car and sending real-time notifications. The high-quality 4K resolution is frequently praised for delivering clear and detailed footage, crucial for recording incidents and providing evidence. Additionally, users find the installation process straightforward and appreciate how easy it is to set up the dash cam and route the cables neatly. The sleek design of the camera blends well with car interiors, and the 4G connectivity ensures continuous monitoring and updates. The accompanying app is also noted for its user-friendly interface, allowing easy monitoring and live footage viewing.
Areas for Improvement: However, some users have raised concerns about the subscription fees required to access the advanced features, finding them relatively high. There are also reports of the app being slow to start and connect, with some users experiencing crashes during setup. The sensitivity of the motion detection feature can lead to excessive notifications, which some find annoying. Additionally, customer service has been a point of contention, with several users citing slow response times and unresolved issues. Some users also mentioned that the recorded audio can be too loud and suggested an option to adjust the microphone sensitivity. Lastly, the delay in the availability of the rear camera and its additional cost were concerns for some users.
In summary, users are saying the Nextbase IQ Smart Dash Cam is highly regarded for its advanced features, high-quality video, and ease of installation. However, issues related to subscription costs, app performance, and customer support have been noted by some users.
Summary
The Nextbase IQ Smart Dash Cam (1K) is more than just a dash cam; it’s a comprehensive vehicle security system that offers a high-definition video resolution, intelligent safety features, and versatile storage options. During testing, its advanced features such as SmartSense Parking and Witness Mode, along with its impressive video quality, demonstrated its capability to provide unparalleled protection and peace of mind for every journey. Ideal for modern drivers—whether they are Uber or limousine drivers, teenagers, companies managing fleet safety, or traditional family drivers—the Nextbase IQ combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality. While the requirement for a subscription to access all features and the high initial cost may be considerations, the investment in the Nextbase IQ Smart Dash Cam (1K, 2K, or 4K) ensures you experience the future of vehicle surveillance today. Just be prepared for the ongoing subscription costs, especially for frequent long trips or business use.
Pros
- Advanced features like SmartSense Parking and Witness Mode
- Video resolution
- User friendly installation
- 4G connectivity
Cons
- Price
- Need subscription for smart features
- Overally sensitivity of sensors
- Limited voice assistance - no Siri, Google Assistant or Alexa integrations
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