Nextbase iQ 4K 2-CH vs. Thinkware U3000 4K UHD 2-CH Dash Cam Review

Like other Thinkware dash cams, the Thinkware U3000 looks sleek in its smooth matte black finish. We find it discreet, measuring only 2.75 X 3.86 X 2.19, highly recommended in terms of dash cam legalities. While still a slim unit, its wider, longer size is due to its built-in radar sensor, a new feature that we’ll talk about later.

Moreover, the U3000’s front plate with the lens can be rotated about 60 degrees. It also has a new crossed ventilation grill design for better cooling, on the underside. Unlike previous models, the Thinkware U3000 no longer includes a hardwiring kit. It now comes standard with an OBD-II power cable for parking mode. Yes, it will still enable parking mode, and is easier to install since it’s plug-and-play.

The Nextbase IQ is also the first in its lineup to include an OBD cable instead of a hardwiring kit to enable parking mode. Highlighting AI capabilities, the Nextbase IQ is expected to have loads of tech inside — thus having a larger-than-usual hardware front-facing camera that also has an interior camera built in behind. You may also add a rear camera, but it has to be bought separately. For the head unit, the Nextbase IQ’s pill-shaped dash cam comes with a suction mount arm where you have to stick on the windshield – physically enormous and may possibly impede your view. The Nextbase IQ’s suction cup base is also rather large, along with 2 antennas that came out the side for reception.

In terms of video quality and recording capabilities, the new Nextbase IQ has 1K, 2K, and 4K models. The only variation between the Nextbase iQ's three models is the resolution of the front-facing camera. The range starts with the 1K model, which records at 1080 x 1920p, sometimes known as full HD. The 2K is the mid-range iQ; it records at 2560 x 1440p. Finally, the flagship 4K version of the iQ has a resolution of 3840 x 2160p – all at 30 frames per second.

On the other hand, the Thinkware U3000 is only available in 4K models, single-channel and dual-channel. Highlighting its major upgrade, the Thinkware U3000 records 4K @ 30 frames per second video resolution for the front camera, now using the latest 8.24-megapixel Sony STARVIS 2 IMX 678 image sensor technology. This is the industry’s most advanced image sensor technology that highly improves low-light performance and contrast, providing high resolution and clarity, while also lowering power consumption in parking mode. Additionally, the U3000 is equipped with Super Night vision 4.0 technology for further improving low light performance. For its rear camera, the U3000 also boasts a 5MP 2K Sony STARVIS IMX335 sensor.

The Nextbase IQ 4K UHD is equipped with an Omnivision sensor. We’re not saying that Omnivision is bad in terms of recording, it’s a decent and one of the leading sensors as well, although Sony STARVIS, especially the latest STARVIS 2 generation is currently number one. Moreover, the secondary cameras of the IQ only capture full HD, making the U3000’s rear 2K QHD camera a superior choice for recording footage on the rear.

Both the Nextbase IQ and Thinkware U3000 can watch your vehicle, even when the engine is off and you’re away, thanks to parking mode. The Nextbase IQ comes with an OBD power cable, similar to the Thinkware U3000. You can simply plug it into your car’s OBD port and you’re good to go.

Through a feature called Smart Sense Parking, the iQ uses proprietary AI-powered sensing technology to constantly analyze movement, correctly identify potential threats, and send instant notifications so you can quickly react in case of incidents when parked. However, you can only enjoy this feature if you subscribe to Nextbase’s Protect Plan, which costs $13.99 per month

On the other hand, the Thinkware U3000 sports a built-in radar sensor for both front and rear cameras. When a person or vehicle is detected while the dash cam is in a low-power recording mode, the Thinkware U3000 will immediately wake up and start recording.  

You also get motion detection, impact detection, time lapse and Energy Saving Mode 2.0. When activated, Thinkware’s Energy Saving Parking mode saves a 20-sec video clip only after an impact has been detected. On the other hand, Smart Parking Mode protects your vehicle and prevents heat-related damage. If the temperature inside your car becomes too high or too low during Parking mode, the U3000 will automatically switch to a low-power mode.

Now this is where the Nextbase IQ has a lot in store this time. Nextbase didn’t name the IQ as the smartest AI dash cam to date for nothing.

Aside from Smart Sense Parking, the Nextbase IQ also boasts Witness Mode that allows for voice-activated, instant cloud video storage of a 30-minute block, along with notifications sent to an emergency contact. In the event of a serious accident, the IQ’s Emergency SOS feature automatically alerts emergency services, providing crucial location and life-saving information. With voice activation, you can effortlessly command privacy features, mute functions, and activate Witness Mode for convenience.

We’re also impressed to know that Nextbase IQ has the Cloud Connectivity features. This is compatible with devices using T-Mobile, particularly those in the USA and Canada. You can access files and more through the IQ app, including the Live View function for real-time monitoring of your vehicle's interior and surroundings. It also features live streaming, audible alarms, two-way communication, video history access, and more. Finally, the Driving/Security Mode seamlessly switches between driving and parking modes, actively scanning for threats while preserving your car's battery life.

Aside from the built-in GPS antenna in the Thinkware U3000, it also boasts the Thinkware core Advanced Driver Assist System features that no other dash cam brand has offered to date. With its Safety Camera Alert feature, you will receive audio warnings from your U3000 when approaching a wide variety of road safety cameras, including Red Light Warning system, Speed Camera Warning system, Red Light and Speed Camera Warning system, Average Speed Warning system, and a Mobile Zone warning system.

Another reason to get the Thinkware U3000 is its fresh connectivity features. Previous Thinkware models, and other dash cams solely depend on Wi-Fi for connectivity. Now, the Thinkware U3000 makes connecting easier with built-in Bluetooth connectivity. Thinkware has improved their Bluetooth connection so that it alone can be used to perform simple in-app actions like changing settings, overviewing parking mode events, and other basic functions. Still, Wi-Fi is used for heavier tasks like streaming that 4k footage to your phone. It’s equipped with 2.4GHz and 5GHz dual-band Wi-Fi capabilities.

Like the IQ dash cam, Thinkware also offers Cloud features. All you need is an account for Thinkware Connected, which is free to use forever. It used to have a limited 3-month free trial, but now, we’re happy to say that Thinkware Connected is now free to use, unlimitedly.

Going over Thinkware Connected features, the U3000 lets you enjoy Impact Notifications when Parked and driving, Send Emergency Messages, Remote Live-View, Vehicle Status and Geo-Fencing. Some recent add-ons that we think are particularly impressive are the ability to monitor the live voltage of the vehicle, and remotely turn off the camera through the app as needed. Beyond that, they now have a full driving history map too, which can provide multiple months worth of driving data, if needed.

Though to be clear, the U3000 will still need an internet connection for the camera if you want to use the Thinkware Connected Cloud features. You’ll also need to have the unit in one of the more standard parking modes, as using the energy-saving mode with the radar will disable the cloud while parked, to conserve power.

The Thinkware U3000 dual-channel dash cam costs $549.99 USD, while the single channel is only $429.99. The dual channel already includes the rear camera, OBD cable, Thinkware CPL filter, a 64 GB micro SD card and lifetime use of its Thinkware Connected cloud features. Meanwhile, the Nextbase IQ Ai dash cam full HD costs $699.99 for the front and interior camera unit. The optional rear camera can be obtained for $199.99 USD, and if you want to enjoy the full smart features, you will have to pay additional $13.99 to $19.99 every month. That’s spending over a thousand dollars for the first year!

The Nextbase IQ dash cam and the Thinkware U3000 are probably the most premium dash cams this 2023, costing over 500 dollars for two-channel segments. If you’re willing to spend the extra bucks for smart and advanced features, these two are definitely worth considering.

However, we think that the Nextbase IQ is outrageously expensive. Aside from the idea that you have to buy separate units such as the rear camera, the subscription every month can also be heavy on the pockets. We appreciate how AI has transformed convenience and security here, but still, we think that the Thinkware U3000 is a better option.

Of course, who can say no to the Sony STARVIS 2 sensors? The built-in Bluetooth? The built-in RADAR sensor? The dual-band Wifi, and the Thinkware CONNECTED Cloud features that are free to use forever? For almost half the price of the total cost you have to pay in a year with the IQ dash cam, you can already enjoy the features you need with the U3000, without compromising quality and long-term reliability.