Viofo VS1 – Tiny 2K Camera, Big Performance
Viofo has built a loyal following among dash cam enthusiasts by offering excellent sensors at reasonable prices, and the VS1 is their most compact design yet. Priced between £90 and £120, this tiny single-channel camera packs a Sony STARVIS 2 sensor recording at 2K resolution into a body barely larger than a box of matches. There is no screen, no GPS in the main body, and no unnecessary bulk – just focused, high-quality recording with voice control and Wi-Fi.
Image Quality
The VS1 uses the same Sony STARVIS 2 sensor found in cameras costing significantly more, and the results speak for themselves. 2K QHD footage at 30fps is sharp with excellent colour reproduction and wide dynamic range. Number plates are clearly readable in good light at typical following distances. The STARVIS 2 sensor really proves its worth at night, producing noticeably cleaner footage than older STARVIS 1 cameras. The 140-degree field of view captures sufficient road width without creating distracting distortion at the frame edges. For a camera this small and this affordable, the image quality is genuinely impressive.
Features
The VS1 keeps features focused on what matters. Voice control allows hands-free operation for commands like taking a photo or locking a file – useful while driving. Built-in Wi-Fi connects to the Viofo app for settings adjustment and clip download, though the app experience is functional rather than slick. A GPS module is available separately and plugs into the camera body for those who want speed and location data. Parking mode is supported when hardwired, with time-lapse and impact detection options. The camera accepts microSD cards up to 512GB. The lack of a screen keeps size and power consumption down and means fewer things to go wrong.
Installation
At this size, installation is about as easy as it gets. The VS1 uses a small adhesive mount that takes up minimal windscreen real estate. The USB-C power connection is modern and convenient, and the compact body means it can be positioned almost anywhere without obstructing the driver’s view. Cable routing is straightforward with the included trim tool.
Verdict
The Viofo VS1 is a masterclass in minimalist design. It strips away everything unnecessary and delivers superb 2K footage from a premium sensor at a very accessible £90 to £120. If you want a discreet, no-nonsense dash cam that punches well above its weight on image quality, this is one of the best options available.
