The As Seen on TV Mirror Cam has gained attention for its promise to provide a unique combination of rearview mirror functionality and camera features. This innovative device is marketed as a must-have for anyone looking to upgrade their car’s safety and tech features. The Mirror Cam aims to offer a high-tech alternative to traditional rearview mirrors, blending convenience and advanced technology. But does it really live up to the hype? In this article, we’ll be unboxing, testing, and analyzing the Mirror Cam’s features to determine if it’s worth the investment.
What’s Inside the Box?
When you open the box of the As Seen on TV Mirror Cam, you’ll find the mirror itself, a mounting bracket, a user manual, and a power cable. The mirror is designed to fit over your existing rearview mirror, transforming it into a smart mirror with added functionality. The package is well-organized, making it easy to get started with installation. However, some may find the lack of additional accessories like a mounting tool or memory card a bit disappointing. Overall, the unboxing experience is straightforward and user-friendly.
How to Install the Mirror Cam
Installing the Mirror Cam is a relatively simple process. The device is designed to fit over your existing rearview mirror, which means there’s no need to replace the entire mirror assembly. The mounting bracket attaches securely to the back of your mirror, and the power cable connects to your car’s 12V outlet. The installation process should take no more than 20 minutes, and the instructions provided in the user manual are clear and easy to follow. However, some users may require a little patience to ensure everything is aligned correctly.
Features of the As Seen on TV Mirror Cam
The As Seen on TV Mirror Cam comes with several features designed to improve driving safety and convenience. It includes a wide-angle camera, a high-definition screen, and a built-in GPS tracker. The camera captures high-quality footage, ensuring you get clear video recordings of everything happening behind you. The mirror also offers additional features like a built-in dashcam, which records video of the road ahead. The screen automatically switches between rearview and live footage, providing a seamless driving experience.
Camera Quality and Performance
One of the standout features of the Mirror Cam is its camera quality. The camera offers a wide field of view, allowing drivers to see a broader area behind their vehicle. The footage is crisp and clear, even in low-light conditions, thanks to the camera’s night-vision capabilities. The camera’s performance is generally reliable, providing a clear view of the rear area of your car. However, some users may find that the camera occasionally struggles with extremely bright headlights, but this is a common issue with most rearview cameras.
User Interface and Display
The user interface of the Mirror Cam is intuitive and easy to navigate. The display screen is clear and responsive, offering options for adjusting brightness, contrast, and viewing angles. The touch screen is smooth, and switching between different modes, such as rearview and dashcam, is quick and seamless. The interface may take some time to get used to, especially for those who are new to high-tech devices. However, once you familiarize yourself with the controls, navigating through the settings is straightforward.
Battery Life and Charging
The Mirror Cam is powered by your vehicle’s 12V power outlet, which means you won’t have to worry about charging it regularly. Once installed, the camera draws power from your car’s battery, making it ready for use every time you start the engine. While this eliminates the need for constant charging, it’s important to note that the camera can draw power even when the car is off if it’s not properly disconnected. In this case, it’s recommended to turn off the camera manually after each use.
Driving Experience with the Mirror Cam
Using the Mirror Cam during a drive provides a noticeably different experience compared to a standard rearview mirror. The wide-angle camera offers a more comprehensive view of what’s behind you, reducing blind spots and enhancing safety. The transition between the rearview mirror and camera mode is smooth, allowing drivers to focus on the road ahead without distractions. However, the large display can take some getting used to, and some drivers may find it slightly overwhelming at first. Overall, the driving experience is improved with the added visibility.
Safety and Security Features
The Mirror Cam is equipped with several safety and security features that enhance your overall driving experience. The camera continuously records footage of your surroundings, which can serve as valuable evidence in the event of an accident. It also has collision detection and alerts that can help prevent accidents by notifying you of potential dangers. The added visibility provided by the wide-angle camera helps reduce blind spots and allows for safer parking and reversing, making it a useful tool for both new and experienced drivers.
Is the Mirror Cam Worth the Price?
The price of the Mirror Cam is relatively affordable compared to other high-tech driving devices on the market. It offers several features that justify its cost, such as the wide-angle camera, high-definition screen, and built-in dashcam. However, some users may find that the device’s performance doesn’t always meet expectations, especially when it comes to the camera’s handling of extreme lighting conditions. If you’re looking for an easy-to-install device that improves safety and provides added tech features, the Mirror Cam is a great option, but there are some areas for improvement.
Alternatives to the Mirror Cam
If the As Seen on TV Mirror Cam doesn’t meet your needs or budget, there are several alternatives to consider. Many manufacturers offer similar devices, including advanced dashcams and rearview mirror cameras that offer higher-end features such as 4K resolution and wireless connectivity. Some alternatives come with additional features like Wi-Fi integration or cloud storage, allowing for more advanced data management. While these alternatives may come at a higher price, they often offer enhanced performance and more customization options.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Mirror Cam
After testing the As Seen on TV Mirror Cam, it’s clear that it offers a range of useful features that enhance driving safety and convenience. The camera quality is decent, and the added functionalities, such as the built-in dashcam, make it a valuable tool for any driver. However, there are some areas where the device could improve, such as handling extreme lighting conditions. Overall, the Mirror Cam is worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-install camera system. For those interested in exploring other options, the Inventel Mirror Cam might be a great alternative.
FAQs
1. How easy is it to install the Mirror Cam?
Installation is fairly simple. It takes about 20 minutes to attach the mounting bracket and connect the power cable to your car’s 12V outlet. The user manual provides clear instructions to make the process hassle-free.
2. Can the Mirror Cam record footage even when my car is off?
The Mirror Cam draws power from your car’s 12V power outlet, so it will continue to work when the engine is off if not manually turned off. It’s important to disconnect it properly to avoid draining your battery.
3. Does the Mirror Cam work well at night?
Yes, the Mirror Cam is equipped with night-vision capabilities, which ensures that it provides clear footage in low-light conditions. However, like many cameras, it may struggle with extremely bright headlights.