Is the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 Worth Your Money?

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is a compact and discreet dash camera designed for drivers who value minimal distractions while ensuring their journeys are documented. It combines a robust feature set with a small footprint, making it ideal for modern vehicles. However, despite its appealing design, it may not provide enough upgrades from its predecessor to justify a switch for current users.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is exceptionally compact, designed for discreet installation.
• It features 1080p recording and a 140-degree field of view, but lacks a resolution upgrade over its predecessor.
• Equipped with a built-in polariser lens, it helps reduce glare from the windscreen.
• Setup is straightforward, enhanced by the Garmin Drive app for easy pairing and adjustments.
• Audio quality is clear, although some users may find the acknowledgment beeps off-putting.
• It competes in a crowded market where rivals offer higher resolutions and additional features at similar price points.

Price and Availability

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is priced at £149.99 and is available through Garmin’s website as well as various retailers. This pricing positions it as a premium option in the dash cam market. In comparison, similar competitors like the Nextbase Piqo and the Viofo A129 Plus provide 2K recording capabilities at a similar price, while brands such as Vantrue offer 4K recording features in models like the E1 Pro.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout aspects of the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is its size. At just under the length of a thumb and weighing only 30 grams (1.05 ounces), this dash cam is incredibly light and compact, making it easy to conceal behind a rearview mirror. The design features a robust plastic casing that feels solid, avoiding any creaky plastic sounds often associated with cheaper devices.

The camera's lens protrudes slightly, and its ball-and-socket mount provides flexibility in positioning without obstructing the driver's view. Despite its minimalist design, the kit includes a power cable, a 12V charger, and a quick-start guide, although the inclusion of only one adhesive mounting pad may be seen as a downside.

Features Overview

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 offers essential features that align with user needs for security and convenience:

• Automatic incident detection and parking guard modes start recording during critical moments.
• The save button allows for quick video protection during an incident, capturing the 15 seconds before and after activation.
• Cloud storage options are available through Garmin Vault for £9.99 per month, allowing users to back up their footage.
• Voice control functionality enables hands-free operation, enhancing driving safety.

Setup Process

Setting up the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is a straightforward process. The device is connected using the provided 12V cable and a USB-C connector. The adjustable ball-and-socket mount allows flexibility in positioning, ensuring the camera can be angled as desired without shaking during driving. The Garmin Drive app is then downloaded, and pairing the device is simple, with minimal adjustments needed for initial setup.

Software and App Functionality

The Garmin Drive app is reasonably well-designed, providing clear navigation with large buttons for accessibility. However, users looking to customise their settings may find the app lacking in adjustable features. The primary functions revolve around adjusting G-sensor sensitivity, which is sufficient for most users but may disappoint those wanting more control.

Video and Audio Quality

In terms of video quality, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 records at 1080p, providing solid image detail. While visuals are sharp, some users may notice jagged edges when viewing clips on larger screens. The onboard Clarity HDR technology significantly enhances contrast, making number plates and other details recognisable even in challenging lighting conditions.

During night-time driving, the camera performs adequately, but users might encounter some low-light noise. The audio quality is impressive, with clear vocal capture and minimal distortion. However, the beeping sounds during operation may be deemed overly sharp and less pleasant compared to other models.

Performance Comparison

When compared to its predecessor, the Mini 2, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 offers incremental upgrades but does not significantly change the game. The addition of a polarising filter is beneficial, yet the lack of a resolution increase or a 60fps recording option may deter existing Mini 2 users from upgrading. Other competitors in the market, particularly those offering 2K and 4K recording, may provide stronger incentives for potential buyers.

While the Mini 3 excels in compactness and ease of use, it must compete against rivals such as the Nextbase Piqo, which offers enhanced security features, and the Vantrue E1 Pro, known for its smoother 4K recording capabilities. The overall design and build quality remain commendable, but the technological advancements in competing models cannot be overlooked.

Conclusion

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is an excellent choice for those seeking a discreet dash cam that doesn’t distract from driving. Its compact design and solid performance make it appealing for users who prefer minimalism in their vehicles. However, for current Mini 2 owners or those looking for more advanced features, the modest upgrades may not justify a new purchase. With many alternatives available that offer higher resolutions and additional functionalities at similar prices, potential buyers should consider their priorities carefully.

FAQs

What is the resolution of the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3?

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 records video at a resolution of 1080p, which is standard for many dash cams but may not be as appealing compared to higher-resolution models available on the market.

How do I install the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3?

The installation process involves connecting the provided 12V power cable to your car and using the USB-C connector. The camera can then be mounted using its adjustable ball-and-socket mount for optimal positioning.

Does the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 have night vision?

While the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 does not feature dedicated night vision, it performs adequately in low-light conditions, capturing usable footage during night-time driving.

Can I access my videos remotely with the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3?

Yes, users can access stored videos remotely through the Garmin Vault cloud storage service, which is available for a monthly subscription fee.

What are the dimensions of the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3?

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is incredibly compact, being just slightly longer than a thumb, making it suitable for discreet placement on a vehicle’s windscreen.