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Summary
- The Nexar Beam2 Mini is the smallest model in this range but offers many of the same features, including always-on functionality.
- Video quality is crisp and clear, but it’s best to invest in an optional Nexar LTE subscription plan to get the best results.
- The small form factor is cool, but there is no rear screen and a lack of removable media storage too, replaced with a hard disk instead.
When it comes to deciding which of the best dash cams to choose, most of us tend to head for something with a rear screen, which offers instant in-car access to many of the controls. The Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam is a little bit different because this model comes with no screen and relies on the impressive Nexar app to keep on top of the controls. Another less common feature is a built-in hard disk, which replaces a removable media card.
However, the Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam works because it comes with always-on functionality, which means it is possible to
live-stream
and enjoy the benefit of 24/7
surveillance
. Nexar offers this model (and the other Beam variants) with an LTE Protection plan. This is a monthly subscription, currently just a penny under $10, which unlocks 24/7 Live Parking surveillance, real-time GPS tracking along with emergency alerts.
- Number of Cameras
-
One
- Front Camera Resolution
-
1080p FHD
- Field of View
-
160-degree
- Emergency Power
-
No
- Optional LTE plan is worth the investment
- Compact design works well on small screens
- Impressive app plus cloud storage options
- No rear screen is a bit of a turn-off
- Hard disk replaces removale media cards
- Getting the lens angle right can be fiddly
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Price, availability, and specs
The Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam is currently discounted from $200 to $150. This is for the 64GB storage model. Meanwhile, a 128GB edition costs $170 and the largest model is a beefy 256GB edition that costs $200, either from Nexar or online outlets including Amazon.
- Number of Cameras
-
One
- Front Camera Resolution
-
1080p FHD
- Field of View
-
160-degree
- Emergency Power
-
No
- Brand
-
Nexar
What I liked about the Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam
Live-streaming and always on recording rocks
There are plenty of things that appeal about the Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam. Central to this is the compact design, which is especially handy if you have a vehicle with a small windshield. Admittedly, the self-adhesive mount and inability to unclick the camera is a little annoying, but this is a cheap and cheerful dash cam, so it’s worth putting up with.
The real bonus of this model, though, is the way the LTE Protection plan from Nexar unlocks a host of additional features. The always-on recording and live-streaming video are big parts of the appeal and the Nexar app delivers some great features and functions that help get the most from this aspect of the Beam2. Considering a monthly subscription costs just under $10 (at the moment, at least), it seems like good value just as long as you need this sort of monitoring.
I’m pretty impressed with the video quality — it has a decent field of view and respectable definition when it comes to recording the likes of road signs and license plates. This model also works well in less than ideal weather conditions and after dark, too. Considering the low price point, I’d say the Beam2 Mini thus has plenty going for it.
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What I didn’t like about the Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam
Lack of a rear screen and needs constant power
There are a few niggles with the Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam — the main downside being a lack of rear screen. Admittedly, the Nexar app is excellent and allows users to control all the features and functions on a smartphone. So, this isn’t a dealbreaker, and neither is the lack of a removable media card. Recording is all done on an internal hard disk and also in the cloud. An account and LTE Protection Plan subscription will add extra cost to the package in order to enjoy all these features, though.
The unit comes with an ODBII cable, which can be plugged into a connector under the dash of most modern cars.
One thing that might not sit well with everyone: you’ll need a constant power source to unlock all the features. The unit includes an OBDII cable, which plugs into the port under the dash in most modern cars. That said, it won’t work with every vehicle — so it’s worth checking compatibility before you get too excited. The other option is to buy a hardwire kit, but, of course, that adds to both the cost and the installation effort.
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Should you buy the Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam?
Worth a look if always-on monitoring is needed
The ability to enjoy always-on recording and live-streaming, plus lots of other practical features using the excellent Nexar app is a real bonus with this compact dash cam. The small form factor also appeals, even though the mounting bracket is basically permanent and doesn’t allow the camera unit to be detached. There’s no rear screen or removable media, either.
However, the upside is the optional LTE Protection Plan, which unlocks the Beam2’s real potential for not a lot of dollars each month. The video quality isn’t bad either, for something that essentially sits at the affordable end of the dash cam spectrum. So, there are some drawbacks and quirks, but overall the Nexar Beam2 Mini Dash Cam is well worth the price tag.
This device was provided to Pocket-lint by Nexar.
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