Anker Roav Dash Cam C1 Review

Updated on July 29, 2023

Let’s dive right into our latest review of a mid-range dashcam that has been causing a stir in recent months.

Quick Summary

Image	Product	Features
	Roav Anker C1	Max Res: 1080p Display: 2.4" G-Sensor: Yes GPS: No View: 145° Night Vision: Yes Wi-Fi: Yes	Check Price →

Product Review

Sensor

The Anker ROAV C1 boasts a Sony EXMOR CMOS sensor. The sensor is capable of recording full HD videos at 30 fps. Paired with it is the NightHawk technology that ensures that the camera is capable of handling low light situations better than most other dash cams in the business.

Lens

The lens on the ROAV C1 is designed using 6 elements. Additionally, the aperture on the lens is f/1.8. That is fast enough and bright enough to capture decent videos even in low light. But keep in mind, an f/1.8 aperture on a tiny sensor like this is not the same thing as an f/1.8 lens designed for a full-frame DSLR. The crop factor nullifies the aperture. The ‘effective’ aperture is much smaller.

Video Recording

The ROAV C1 is capable of recording full HD videos only and a frame rate of 30 fps. For all conceivable reasons, that should be good enough because the heavier the file (because of, the higher resolution), the quicker the camera will run out of memory. Despite the fact that loop recording means ‘perpetual’ recording, larger files will create problems if you wish to archive some of the clips from time to time.

WDR / HDR

WDR stands for Wide Dynamic Range. In essence, this would be the same thing as HDR or High Dynamic Range. That suggests that the camera is able to capture a larger number of stops between pure black and pure white. In reality, small sensor cameras are not that great when it comes to dynamic range. So don’t expect something out of the world.

Loop Recording

The ROAV C1 comes with a loop recording feature. Loop recording is essential when you are driving for an extended period of time and don’t have a spare memory card. It is also handy because that way you don’t have to manually delete/format your memory card so that the camera can record. However, this feature should be supported by the memory lock and g-sensor features. The Anker ROAV C1 has both.

Memory Lock Gravity Sensing

Memory lock and G-sensor are two features that complement each other. First, let’s learn about the G-sensor feature. G-sensor is a functionality available on some dash cams. This allows the dash cam to detect if there are any sudden changes in gravity/momentum. Let’s say that your vehicle is hit from the side by another vehicle moving at a higher speed. There would be a sudden change in the momentum of your vehicle. The g-sensor feature will help detect the camera of that sudden change.

This sensor inside the camera can turn on the camera even if your car is turned on. It uses the battery inside the camera to make the recording when your car ignition is turned off.

When G-sensor detects that there is a sudden change in gravity/ acceleration/momentum, it locks the video that was being recorded at that moment. This prevents any accidental overwriting of the video, which could be visual evidence of an accident.

Motion Detector

The Anker ROAV Dash Cam C1 comes with a motion detection feature. This is handy and especially welcomed for this price range.

Parking Mode

Parking mode is yet another excellent feature that is available on the ROAV Dashcam C1. In this mode, the camera will turn on if it detects any vibration or bumps and knocks and quickly makes a recording of the incident. Many erring drivers with limited driving/parking skills could bump your car when backing up or doing parallel parking. If the camera is suitably positioned, video evidence is recorded of the incident.

Rear LCD Screen

The rear LCD screen is a 2.4″ unit which gives a clear view of what’s being recorded. If you playback what’s been recorded, it does an ok job too. The screen and the whole dash cam is a compact unit.

Setting It Up

Installation of the ROAV C1 can be done using only an adhesive mount that comes in the package. We would have preferred a suction mount as an alternative too. But it’s not there.

One of the aspects that we don’t like is that the ROAV Dashcam C1 doesn’t come with a memory card. The specifications provided by the manufacturer suggest that the camera is compatible with a minimum of Class 10 (above) category card. You can use 64 GB or even 128 GB cards, as long as they are formatted in the camera itself. Only MicroSD cards are accepted.

Video Set-up

There is very limited setting up to do. The things are all intuitive, and it takes a couple of minutes to get started. The only thing is you need a MicroSD card before you can start recording.

Connectivity

Unlike some of the other cheaper options that you have in the market, and especially when you compare the younger sibling, the ROAV C2, the ROAV C1 comes with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. You can now pair this device with any other compatible device and be able to download the videos and stills that the ROAV C1 captures.

To make the deal sweeter, the Anker dash cam is supported by a smartphone app. So, now you can do some basic setting changes as well as look at what has been captured straight on your smartphone. The app is compatible with Android version 5 and upwards. In addition to that, it is compatible with all iOS versions 9 and up.

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Ash

With more than 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, Ash possesses a deep understanding of the diverse needs and challenges faced by drivers on the road. His relentless commitment to road safety and ongoing research is fueled by a genuine desire to create safer environments for all drivers.