Rove R2-4K Dual dashcam review: Nearly perfect

I’m always on the lookout for a dashcam that can keep me covered better than the models I’ve got already, which is why I’m pleased I recently got the new Rove R2-4K Dual model. This is effectively a dashcam bundle in that it features a 4K 2160p front-facing camera supplemented by a slimline 1080p rear-facing camera. The design of both units might not be anything to write home about, but they’re undeniably practical, and that’s really all I’m after.

As you’ll see if you look through Pocket-lint’s best dashcam guide, there are a lot of different options. However, what I like about the Rove R2-4K Dual bundle is its basic simplicity. I’ve enjoyed using the Nextbase iQ and the Rove R3 models, but this model is more ideally suited to my needs. I often want to move my dashcam from vehicle to vehicle, and this terrific twosome of cameras is tailor-made to suit that requirement.

While there are cheaper dashcam models on the market, I like the way this model comes with everything inside the box, and the design lends itself well to any kind of vehicle. One of the best features is the suction cup mount, which lets me fix it in a car, SUV, truck, minivan or even a bus should I need it. And, even better, it can be removed and installed into my next vehicle in minutes.

Recommended

Rove R2-4K

The Rove R2-4K Dual dashcam is a bumper bundle with lots of features. Look out for its 3-inch rear display, 150-degree and 140-degree field of vision from the front and rear cameras respectively, plus all the power expected from Sony Starvis 2 sensor tech. Add in long power life thanks to an internal Super Capacitor, dual-band Wi-F, along with a host of parking monitor options using an optional hardwire kit, and there’s a lot to offer. The other big advantage of this model is the suction cup windshield mount, which allows super easy installation and removal.

Pros

• Mounting system enables quick and easy installation
• Simple set of controls
• Great companion app

Cons

• Dated design
• Additional hardwire kit needed for parking surveillance tools
• Supplied 128GB card is okay

Price, availability, and specs

The Rove R2-4K Dual dashcam is available from Amazon, which currently has it priced at just $149.99. Considering there’s everything needed inside the box to get up and running, including a 128GB media card, I’d say this is a great value package. A Rove hardwire kit is also available if you wish to install the cameras more permanently inside your vehicle.

What I liked about the Rove R2-4K Dual

A complete package

It’s always a bonus if a product comes with everything I need for a complete solution, and the Rove R2-4K Dual does just that. There are two cameras, a 128GB microSD card, suction mount for the front camera, as well as all the cables, connectors and stickers needed to get everything installed. Rove always does a good job with its instructions and manuals, too.

In terms of the hardware, it’s all good, with the front-facing camera boasting a Sony Starvis 2 sensor, which can shoot 3,840 x 2,160 video at 30fps. It’s got a 150-degree field of view, too, and the nighttime footage is as impressive as daytime video. The rear camera is slightly less potent, but no less good at its job thanks to a 140-degree field of view. It’s also nice and small, making it unobtrusive, even when fixed to my rear windshield.

All the tools needed for managing video easily are included, with both 2.4G and 5G Wi-Fi connectivity delivering up to 20MBps on the download front. Additionally, Rove has a great app, which is ideal for managing files and folders of content. Elsewhere, there’s built-in GPS, meaning a lot of supporting data for video, including speed, date, time and so on. The 24-hour parking monitor does require the kit to be hardwired in though.

What I didn’t like about the Rove R2-4K Dual

Chunky design looks a little dated

There’s nothing too fancy about the design of the R2-4K Dual. In fact, I think it looks a little old-school, but that’s not to its detriment, as it’s super easy to install, set up and use. There’s a rear screen, but I needed to use the buttons along the bottom of the unit in order to carry out most tasks, rather than the touchscreen. I didn’t find this a big deal, though, and there’s always the app to fall back on for more effective file management. Some might find the primitive controls a bit of a turn-off, however.

There’s also the fact that the R2-4K Dual needs to be hardwired into the vehicle for parking surveillance duties and this is an extra cost to consider. That also means the camera is not going to be easy to move to another vehicle if it’s needed. Nevertheless, there’s no denying the worthiness of the parking and monitoring features, like motion detection and 24-hour coverage, if I leave my car in a parking lot overnight.

Should you buy the Rove R2-4K Dual?

There’s a lot that I like about the Rove R2-4K Dual dashcam. Admittedly, it’s not one of the fanciest-looking models money can buy. At the same time, though, there’s nothing gimmicky about this dashcam and it’s therefore easy to understand and even more straightforward to set up and use. The versatility of this model is a big selling point too, and I love the way the front-facing camera comes with an old-school suction mount. It’s really all I need.

Recommended

Rove R2-4K

Number of Cameras

Two

Front Camera Resolution

2,160p

Field of View

150-degrees

Emergency Power

No

Brand

Rove