VanTrue Element E1 Pro: Compact Power Meets 4K Clarity
The VanTrue Element E1 Pro is a compact dash cam that punches well above its weight class. With 4K resolution, Sony STARVIS 2 sensor, and a suite of smart features like voice control, GPS, and PlatePix technology, it’s designed to deliver premium performance without the premium price tag.
The E1 Pro is impressively small — roughly the size of a ring box — making it easy to mount discreetly behind your rearview mirror. Despite its size, it feels solid and well-built, with a matte plastic body, metal lens ring, and ample ventilation to prevent overheating.
Key design features:
• 1.54-inch IPS screen for setup and playback
• Magnetic GPS mount with adhesive pad
• USB-C port for power and data
• Optional CPL filter to reduce glare
• Three-button navigation system for menu control
While the screen is helpful for setup, it’s too small for detailed playback — most users will rely on the companion app for reviewing footage.
The E1 Pro records in 4K (3840×2160) at 30fps, powered by the Sony STARVIS 2 IMX678 sensor. Daytime footage is crisp, with vibrant colors and excellent contrast. The 158° wide-angle lens captures a broad field of view without excessive fisheye distortion.
At night, performance is decent but not flawless. The HDR mode helps balance exposure, reducing glare from headlights and enhancing visibility in low light. However, some graininess and loss of detai l— especially in oncoming traffic — can occur.
The PlatePix mode is a standout feature, enhancing license plate clarity. It works best at night but can darken the overall image, so it’s best used selectively.
Installation is straightforward:
• Mount the GPS base to your windshield
• Slide the camera into place
• Connect power via USB-C
The VanTrue app connects via 5GHz Wi-Fi, offering fast downloads and live viewing. The app is intuitive, with clear menus and responsive controls. You can adjust settings like loop recording, sensitivity, and PlatePix timers directly from your phone. Voice control adds hands-free convenience, allowing commands like “Take photo” or “Turn off audio.” A Bluetooth remote is also included for quick saves without fumbling for buttons.
The E1 Pro supports 24/7 buffered parking mode, capturing footage 15 seconds before and 30 seconds after motion is detected. This requires a hardwire kit, sold separately.
For added security, you can purchase an LTE module that enables remote monitoring and geofencing alerts. It turns your dash cam into a mobile security system — but expect a subscription fee for ongoing use.
Instead of a traditional battery, the E1 Pro uses a supercapacitor, which is more durable and heat-resistant. However, the unit does run hot during operation, even in sleep mode. While no performance issues were reported during testing, long-term reliability could be affected.
Retailing around $149, the E1 Pro is one of the most affordable 4K dash cams on the market. Compared to competitors like the Nextbase 622GW (often priced over $300), it delivers similar core features at half the cost.
Optional accessories:
• CPL filter (~$20)
• Hardwire kit (~$25)
• LTE module (~$50 + subscription)
Even with add-ons, it remains a budget-friendly option for drivers who want high-quality footage and smart features.
The VanTrue Element E1 Pro is a compact, feature-rich dash cam that delivers impressive 4K performance, especially during the day. Its smart features — like PlatePix, voice control, and LTE support — make it a versatile choice for everyday drivers and enthusiasts alike.
While night footage could be sharper and the unit runs warm, these are small trade-offs for a dash cam that offers so much at such a competitive price. If you’re looking for a powerful, discreet, and affordable dash cam, the E1 Pro deserves a spot on your windshield.
It retails for $149 at https://www.vantrue.com/products/element-1-pro
