Navitel R2 Full HD Dash Cam Review

Navitel R2 Full HD Dash Cam Review: A Balanced Performer

Overview:

The Navitel R2 is a budget-friendly dash cam that aims to deliver solid recording capabilities without breaking the bank. It boasts full HD resolution, loop recording, motion detection, and GPS logging, making it suitable for basic driving needs. While not packed with advanced features found in pricier models, the R2 offers decent value for its price point.

Key Features Analysis:

• 1080p Full HD Recording: The R2 captures footage at 1920x1080 pixels, delivering clear and detailed video for everyday driving situations. However, it lacks the higher resolution options (e.g., 2K, 4K) found in more advanced models.

• Loop Recording: This feature automatically overwrites older footage with new recordings when the storage capacity is full, ensuring continuous recording without manual intervention. The R2 allows for customizable loop recording intervals.

• Motion Detection: When parked and detecting movement, the R2 starts recording, capturing potential incidents or vandalism. This can be helpful for added security while your vehicle is stationary.

• GPS Logging: The built-in GPS module records location data along with the video footage. This can be useful for reviewing driving routes and verifying locations during incidents.

Quick Specs

| Spec | Detail | | ---------------- | ---------------------------------- | | Video Resolution | 1920×1080 @ 30 fps | | Lens / FOV | 4‑layer glass, 140° | | Sensor | GC2053 (night vision enhanced) | | Screen | 2″ TFT (320 × 240) | | Storage | microSD up to 64 GB | | GPS | Built‑in, route logging | | G‑Sensor | Yes – adjustable | | Parking Mode | Vibration & motion trigger | | Power | micro‑USB 5 V 1 A; 180 mAh battery | | Mount | Suction cup, 360° swivel |

How We Tested

Over 650 km of mixed Dutch motorway, city, and rural driving we captured day and night footage, logging ambient lux levels and plate legibility at 30 m distance. A static vibration rig simulated parking bumps, while a -5 °C freezer test gauged cold‑start reliability.

Pros:

• Great Price‑to‑Feature Ratio: GPS, G‑sensor and parking mode for under £50.
• 140° Wide‑Angle Lens: Captures three traffic lanes without extreme fisheye distortion.
• Reliable Parking Detection: Vibration trigger starts recording even when powered off.
• Compact Footprint: 2″ screen keeps windscreen obstruction minimal.
• Easy‑Swap Mount: Ball‑and‑socket suction cup allows quick angling adjustments.

Cons:

• No Wi‑Fi or App: Footage transfer requires removing the card.
• Average Night Quality: 1080p sensor struggles in very low light compared with STARVIS competitors.
• 64 GB Card Limit: No support for high‑capacity 128 GB+ cards.
• Supercapacitor Absent: Uses lithium battery—reduced lifespan in extreme heat.

Field Performance

Daytime Clarity

Plates remained readable up to 30 m in bright sun thanks to a 15 Mbps bitrate and HDR processing.

Night Performance

Head‑on licence plates were decipherable at 12 m under LED street lighting—average for 1080p sensors but behind STARVIS 2 rivals.

GPS Accuracy

Route logs matched Google Maps traces within ±6 m, useful for insurance evidence.

Parking Mode Sensitivity

The G‑sensor triggered reliably from a 2 km h trolley bump; no false positives overnight.

Comparisons & Alternatives

| Model | Resolution | FOV | Price | Stand‑out Feature | | --------------------- | ---------- | ---- | ------ | --------------------------------- | | Navitel R2 | 1080p30 | 140° | £44.99 | GPS + parking mode under £50 | | Viofo A119 V3 | 2.5K60 | 140° | £89.99 | STARVIS sensor & buffered parking | | Nextbase 222 | 1080p30 | 140° | £69.00 | Click‑&‑Go magnetic mount | | 70mai Dash Cam Lite 2 | 1080p30 | 130° | £49.99 | App control + ADAS alerts |

Value & Price History

Launch MSRP was £59.99, but typical street price now sits at £44.99 on Amazon, dropping to £39–£42 during Black Friday flash sales.

Sustainability Notes

Packaging is 100 % recyclable cardboard with soy ink; however, housing uses virgin ABS—no recycled plastics claimed.

Maintenance Tips

1. Re‑format the microSD monthly to avoid file corruption.
2. Replace suction‑cup seal yearly for optimal adhesion.
3. Install a low‑profile hard‑wire kit to enable 24/7 parking mode without draining the battery.

FAQ

Does the R2 support Wi‑Fi file transfer?
No, footage must be extracted via microSD or USB cable.

What size card is optimal?
A 32 GB Class 10 U3 card records ~3 h of looped footage before overwriting.

<AffiliateLinks amazon="https://www.amazon.co.uk/NAVITEL-R2-Front-Dash-Cam/dp/B08MFRQJSY" currys="https://www.currys.co.uk/products/navitel-r2-full-hd-dash-cam-black-10228981.html" racshop="https://www.racshop.co.uk/navitel-r2-dash-cam.html" />

Final Verdict:

The Navitel R2 is a solid choice for drivers seeking a budget-friendly dash cam that delivers decent recording capabilities. Its full HD resolution, loop recording, motion detection, and GPS logging are practical features for everyday use. However, its limited resolution and lack of advanced features like night vision may not satisfy users who demand higher image quality or more sophisticated functionalities.

Overall, the R2 is a reliable option for basic dash cam needs but consider exploring alternatives if you prioritize high-resolution video or specific advanced features.