Garmin 010-02504-00 Dash Cam Mini 2, Tiny Size, 1080p and 140-degree FOV, Monitor Your Vehicle While Away w/ New Connected Features, Voice Control, Black
The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is a compact, car key-sized dash camera that offers significant protection without the bulk. Ideal for those who want a discreet yet functional dash cam, this device provides clear video recording and essential features like automatic incident saving and voice control, all while staying out of sight.
Pros:
Cons:
Features & Functionality:
The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is designed for users who appreciate straightforwardness and efficiency. It captures video at 1080p resolution, utilizing Garmin Clarity HDR optics. This technology ensures that the footage provides balanced light exposure, making details visible even in low light or at night.
The camera has a 140-degree field of view, which is broad enough for most driving conditions, although not the widest available. Voice control is a significant feature, enhancing driver safety by allowing hands-free operation. With support for commands in various languages, drivers can save video clips, manage audio, or take photos without ever needing to touch the device.
Additionally, the Mini 2 automatically detects incidents, saving the relevant footage which is crucial for legal or insurance purposes without any need for user action. For added security, the Parking Guard monitors the car when parked, requiring constant power and Wi-Fi to alert the user of any disturbances via the Garmin Drive app.
The Live View feature complements this by allowing remote monitoring of the vehicle’s surroundings. The Garmin Drive app plays a central role, not just for settings and updates but also for integrating with other Garmin dash cams. This can provide additional features like GPS data if paired with a GPS-enabled device. The operation of the Mini 2 is designed to be simple, focusing on essential functions with no built-in screen to distract from driving.
Design & Build Quality:
The Mini 2 exemplifies minimalistic design; its compact size is its most notable design choice, fitting perfectly behind the rearview mirror with a low-profile adhesive mount. This design not only reduces visual clutter but also minimizes the risk of theft, as it’s less noticeable from outside the vehicle. The build quality feels robust with a durable plastic shell, though the lack of a screen might be a drawback for those who prefer immediate playback.
The setup is straightforward, with an adhesive mount for the windshield and a choice of USB cables for power, one short and one long, providing flexibility in installation. The absence of GPS within the device itself might be a limitation for some, but Garmin allows for data integration through their app when paired with another GPS-enabled Garmin product.
Power & Performance:
The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 requires a continuous power supply from your car’s cigarette lighter for operation. It comes with a dual USB power adapter and two different length USB cables, offering flexibility in how and where the camera can be installed.
This setup ensures that the camera starts recording as soon as the car is powered on, which is crucial for capturing all moments on the road. The Mini 2 uses loop recording to manage its storage space, continuously overwriting old footage when the memory is full, except for manually or automatically saved clips during incidents.
While it has an internal battery, it’s not meant for extended use without a power source; it merely buffers footage during brief power interruptions. The video performance is commendable, delivering clear 1080p footage with HDR for detailed recordings both day and night, which can be vital in accident scenarios.
One limitation is the lack of integrated GPS; for location and speed data, users must pair it with another Garmin device that has this capability. Connectivity through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth generally works well, though some might find the setup or file transfer process slightly cumbersome on occasion. Overall, the Mini 2 focuses on being a reliable, low-maintenance dash cam that performs its core functions well without demanding much from the user.
Compatibility & Connectivity:
The Mini 2 connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which facilitates easy setup and control through the Garmin Drive app. This app not only allows for settings adjustments but also for the upload of videos to Garmin’s online Vault for storage and sharing. The connectivity, while generally reliable, has been noted to occasionally struggle, particularly with initial setup or when switching between devices.
The lack of native GPS means that for location-tagged footage, you’ll need an additional Garmin dash cam with GPS. However, this can be seen as an eco-system benefit, encouraging users to invest in other Garmin products for a more integrated experience.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2?
The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is highly recommended for drivers seeking a straightforward, no-fuss dash cam that won’t dominate their dashboard. Its strengths lie in its unobtrusiveness, ease of use, and quality video recording for its size. It’s especially ideal for those who prioritize a clean-looking interior and want the basics done exceptionally well.
If you’re looking for features like built-in GPS or need a camera that stands out less for its functionality than its design, the Mini 2 might not meet all your needs. However, for everyday protection, incident capture, and peace of mind with a minimal footprint, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 stands out as a top contender in its class.
