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VIOFO WM1 vs. VIOFO A119 V3 1-Channel 2K QHD Dash Cam Review

For many years, the VIOFO A119 V3 1-channel dash cam has been a popular choice for drivers looking for a low-cost option that captures 2K QHD video. It has also received positive feedback in car forums such as Reddit, Dashcamtalk and Canada’s favorite deals Channel, RedFlagDeals to name a few. Our customers here at BlackboxMyCar are loving it, too!

VIOFO, on the other hand, recently announced the release of their 'simplest and smallest' dash cam to date - the all-new WM1. It, too, is a single-channel dash cam that records in 2K resolution, like the A119 V3. What are the differences between these two low-cost dash cams, and which one offers the best value for money right now?

In this article, we will compare the VIOFO WM1 to another VIOFO 1-channel dash camera model, the A119 V3. Let’s dive in!

VIOFO WM1 vs. VIOFO A119 V3 Design

VIOFO considers the WM1 as their simplest and smallest dash cam to date, with a screenless tubular design and a front-only camera system. The WM1 has a 60-degree adjustable camera mount attached to the back of the dash cam, which is more efficient compared to existing mounts that are not adjustable. If you’re wondering how tiny this dash cam is, its size is close to the size of a 12V Car Charger.  

On the other hand, the VIOFO A119 V3 has a wedge-shaped design and a 2-inch screen for video playback and settings, making it bulkier than the WM1.

VIOFO WM1

VIOFO WM1 vs. VIOFO A119 V3 Video Quality

The VIOFO WM1 can capture 2K QHD at 30 frames per second and performs well in both day and night. It features a 5MP Sony STARVIS IMX335 1/2.8-inch image sensor with a 135-degree field of view and Wide Dynamic Range technology.

If there's one thing the A119 V3 excels at, it's wide angle. The VIOFO A119 V3 has a 140-degree field of view, which is slightly wider than the 135-degree angle of the WM1. The A119 V3 sports a 5MP Sony STARVIS image sensor capable of capturing 2K QHD at 30 frames per second, as does the WM1; that’s right, both cameras use the same IMX335 sensor.

Because the VIOFO WM1 and the A119 V3 are both single-channel cameras, any secondary cameras such as rear and interior cameras will not be compatible.

VIOFO WM1

VIOFO WM1 vs. VIOFO A119 V3 Parking Mode

Like other VIOFO dash cams, both the WM1 and the A119 V3 have three intelligent parking modes: Auto Event Detection, Time Lapse Recording, and Low Bitrate Recording - ensuring that you have a clear view of your vehicle's front view at all times.

To use the Parking Mode feature, you must hardwire the dash cam to your car's fuse box. You'll need an appropriate hardwire kit, or an external battery pack such as the BlackboxMyCar PowerCell 8 Battery Pack.

For the A119 V3, you should use a VIOFO HK3 3-Wire ACC Hardwire Kit to activate this feature. With the WM1, what’s used is the HK4 ACC Hardwire Kit.

VIOFO WM1 vs. VIOFO A119 V3 Convenience Features

For previous VIOFO models, we have received feedback that the old series' buttons were overly confusing with unclear functions. Now, the main dash cam on the new VIOFO WM1 has fewer buttons, particularly REC, MIC, WI-FI, and the Emergency Lock button, but they are designed to be more straightforward and a one-hit press.

Another feature that the VIOFO WM1 has which the A119 V3 does not is the intelligent Voice Notification. This new feature, which also comes in the VIOFO A139 Pro, acts as your personal assistant, informing you of dash cam events such as video protection, changes, and memory card errors.

While the VIOFO A119 V3 could produce annoying - and sometimes distracting - beeping sounds for notifications, the new WM1 keeps you focused on the road with the help of a clear and concise voice.  

VIOFO has also managed to make the emergency lock button for this model bigger. This allows users to quickly lock the file at the scene, providing evidence for insurance claims and traffic disputes. While it is also present on the VIOFO A119 V3, the button is visibly smaller.

VIOFO WM1 vs. VIOFO A119 V3 Price

Even though the VIOFO WM1 is the brand's smallest dash cam, we are confident that its features such as 2K QHD video resolution, 5MP Sony STARVIS, built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, Parking Mode, Voice Notifications, and its super discreet design make it stand out from other 2K dash cams. What's more, the WM1 will not set you back more than a hundred dollars, as it is priced at $99.99.

Sure, the A119 V3 is a low-cost front-only dash cam that records in 2K QHD, but it lacks features like built-in Wi-Fi and Voice Notifications. If you don't need these features, you can get the VIOFO A119 V3 for $ 89.99, which is just $10 less than the WM1.

Verdict: VIOFO WM1 vs. VIOFO A119 V3 - Which is better?

When it comes to recording video, the WM1 performs similarly to the A119 V3: 2K QHD recording capabilities, 5MP Sony STARVIS, HDR, and Super Night Vision highlighted on its front-only dash cam.

However, in terms of features, the WM1 has been upgraded with more, which is understandable given its recent release. In comparison to the VIOFO A119 V3, which only has Parking Mode and an external GPS module option, the WM1 has more reasons to buy like Voice Notifications and more importantly, built-in Wi-Fi. As the A119 V3 is not Wi-Fi ready, this means you will either need to connect your dash cam or micro SD card to the computer directly, or squint at its 2-inch screen to playback videos - which is very inconvenient to do.

The lack of these core features was a sore spot with the A119 V3, an otherwise incredibly strong and well-priced unit. We love to see VIOFO upgrading these industry staples, and making sure that everyone can take advantage of what modern dash cams have to offer, without breaking the bank.