In today’s automotive world, the 70mai brand, part of Xiaomi’s ecosystem, has become synonymous with quality and accessibility. Users often wonder what the models are and how they differ from each other, because there are many options on the market.
The main confusion arises from similar names and indexes, which can drastically change the characteristics of the device, for example, the presence of the letter S or Pro in the name often indicates improved optics or the presence of a device. GPS-Understanding these nuances will allow you not to overpay for unnecessary functions or, conversely, not to save on critical security parameters.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the evolution of the lineup, break down key technological differences between generations, and help you make your choice, and learn why some models are better suited for night shooting, while others are equipped with advanced parking functionality.
Brand evolution and major series of devices
The brand has been around for generations, each bringing new standards to the video registration segment, initially focusing on simple devices with basic functionality, but over time the line has grown to complex multimedia complexes, and the range can now be clearly divided into several key areas that focus on different needs of drivers.
The first and most popular group is the classic compact recorders that are mounted on the windshield, which don't take up much space and often hide behind the rear-view mirror, and it's in this segment that the main battle for matrix quality and viewing angle is unfolding. The models here vary from simple HD-solutions to advanced 2K and 4K device.
The second group is hybrid devices that combine the functions of a recorder and a radar detector, which tend to have larger housings and displays to display information about speed limits and control cameras, and require more complex installation and periodic updating of databases through the application.
⚠️ Note: When buying hybrid models, make sure that the camera database is relevant to your region and maintained by the manufacturer, otherwise the warning function will be useless.
The third category is dedicated parking and monitoring systems, often involving multiple cameras, which can operate in 24-hour surveillance mode using built-in batteries or external power supplies, which are rarely found in basic configurations and require professional installation in the car.
Budget segment: initial level of functionality
If you're looking for a simple solution to fix traffic without any frills, look at the initial 1S or C400 series, which are designed for those who need a reliable workhorse, and are typically equipped with full HD (1080p) arrays, which are enough to read license plates in the daytime at close range.
The key feature of this class is the lack of built-in GPS-This means that speed and coordinate data will not be written into the video file, and the camera alert function will not work, but this significantly reduces the cost of the device, making it available to a wide range of customers.
Despite its simplicity, even the Xiaomi 70mai budget models come with a Wi-Fi module to communicate with a smartphone, which allows you to quickly download videos to your phone and share them on social networks or transfer them to insurance companies, and is managed through a proprietary application that is regularly updated.
- 📹 Resolution: Most often Full HD (1920×1080) upon 30 frame-per-second.
- 📡 Wi-Fi for management, but without GPS-Tracking in Cheap Versions.
- 🔋 Power: Only powered by the car network, no built-in battery (only to save settings).
- 📱 Screen: Miniature OLED or LCD display.
It's important to understand that this segment often uses plastic optics that can give glare in the sun. To improve the situation, manufacturers are implementing WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) technologies that balance exposure, but miracles from them should not be expected in the late night.
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For budget models, be sure to purchase a high-quality U3 high-resource (TBW) memory card, as they are sensitive to data write speed.
Middle class: balance of price and quality of shooting
The middle ground of the model range is represented by devices with the index Pro and Plus, where the use of better sensors, such as the Sony IMX335, which provide detailed images of the level of 2K (1944P or 2592P), is a major step forward, allowing you to distinguish between car numbers on neighboring lanes.
The main difference between the middle class is the presence of built-in GPS-This opens up the functions. ADAS (Collision warning system, lane control and speed camera alerts, route and speed data recorded in video, which can be important evidence in a disputed situation.
Optics in these models often have a larger aperture, such as the F1.8, which allows more light to pass at night. Combined with Night Vision noise reduction algorithms, this gives a noticeably cleaner picture in low light conditions than the budget counterpart.
| Characteristics | Budgetary (1S/C400) | Middle class (A500S/Pro) | Flagships (A800S/4K) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permission | 1080p (Full HD) | 1944p / 2592p (2K) | 2160p (4K UHD) |
| Matrix | Basic CMOS | Sony IMX335 | Sony IMX415 |
| GPS | Optional/No | Built-in | Built-in |
| Screen. | 2 inches | 2-3 inches | 3 inches of IPS |
Mid-range devices often support the addition of an extra camera to capture the interior or rear view, which turns a compact gadget into a full-fledged video surveillance system, and connects through a special connector hidden in the case.
⚠️ Note: When installing an additional camera, keep an eye out for the tightness of the wires, especially if you plan to bring the camera out of the car through the rear window.
Flagship models: 4K technologies and artificial intelligence
The pinnacle of the brand’s engineering is 4K. These devices, such as the A800S or A810, use Sony’s top-end IMX415 sensors, and detailing images at this level allows you to confidently read numbers even when driving at high speed and at a considerable distance.
These models use advanced HDR image processing algorithms and artificial intelligence to recognize objects, not only writing videos, but also analyzing scenes by highlighting cars, pedestrians and cyclists, which improves the efficiency of security systems and helps to quickly find the right moment in the archive when needed.
Flagship housings are made of better materials, often with metal coatings, which improve heat sink. 4K-Videos generate a lot of heat. Stable operation at high temperatures is a hallmark of top-end devices.
Why is 4K more important than it seems?
Flagship lines are also the first to support new compression codecs such as H.265, which allows high-quality video to be saved at a smaller file size, saving memory card space, but may require a more powerful computer or smartphone to play back those files.
Specialized devices: mirrors and radar detectors
A niche is occupied by devices that replace the regular rear-view mirror or combine several functions. Mirror models such as the Pro Plus+ have a large touch screen and two cameras (front and rear), they completely overlap the standard mirror, offering a modern interface and a wide viewing angle.
Combined radar detector devices (such as the SpeedCombines series) are the choice for those who travel long distances frequently, scanning the airwaves for police radar signals of different ranges (K, Ka, X).
An important aspect of these gadgets is the complexity of installation. Often, it requires disassembly of the cabin panels to covertly lay the wires to the radar detector unit and the rear camera. Poor installation can lead to extraneous noise in the cabin or interference with the electronics of the car.
- 🪞 Mirrors: Large screen, touch control, replacement of the regular mirror.
- 📡 Radars: Voice alerts, support for all frequencies, GPS-base.
- 🔌 Installation: Requires hidden wiring and professional installation.
- 🎥 Overview: Often provide a circular view (360 degrees) with two cameras.
The use of such devices is justified in new cars or if you want to clean the windshield from unnecessary gadgets on suction cups. Integration into the interior looks more aesthetic and modern.
☑️ What to check before buying a complex model
Technical nuances: matrices, lenses and memory
When choosing a model, it is important to pay attention not only to the marketing name, but also to the "iron". The key element is the matrix. Sony sensors are traditionally considered the benchmark in the automotive video industry due to their high sensitivity and low noise levels.
The lens is also critical: Glass Lens is preferred over plastic lens, because it distorts the image less around the edges of the frame and does not become cloudy over time under the influence of ultraviolet light and temperature changes. A 140-degree viewing angle is considered optimal: it captures the sidelines, but minimizes the effect of the fish eye.
Keep in mind the memory card requirements: High-resolution H.265 codecs require high-speed cards (Class 10 U3 and higher), and cheap memory cards are the most common cause of video loss at critical times.
⚠️ Attention: Regularly (once in a week) 1-2 format the memory card through the DVR menu itself, rather than through the computer, to prevent file system errors and data loss.
Image stabilization is another important parameter: Electronic stabilization (EIS) helps smooth out shaking on rough roads, making videos more enjoyable to watch, but in cheap models it can be implemented software-based and degrade the detail of the frame.
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The quality of night shooting depends not so much on the number of megapixels, but on the size of the light-sensitive matrix and the aperture of the lens (aperture).