Viofo WM1 – Budget 2K Without the Frills
The Viofo WM1 is the entry-level offering from a brand better known for its premium A-series cameras. At £80 to £100, it strips the feature set back to the essentials: a Sony STARVIS sensor recording at 2K resolution with Wi-Fi connectivity. There is no GPS, no screen, no parking mode unless hardwired, and no voice control. What remains is a competent, no-nonsense camera that focuses entirely on recording quality at the lowest possible price.
Image Quality
The WM1 uses an older Sony STARVIS sensor rather than the newer STARVIS 2, but it still produces solid 2K footage at 30fps. In daylight, the video is sharp and well-exposed with good colour accuracy. Number plates are legible at reasonable distances, though not quite as crisp as the VS1 or higher-end Viofo models. Night performance is acceptable for this price bracket – well-lit urban roads are captured adequately, but in very dark conditions the sensor noise increases noticeably and plate capture becomes hit and miss. The fixed 140-degree lens provides a sensible field of view. For £80, the image quality comfortably exceeds expectations.
Features
Feature-wise, the WM1 is deliberately sparse. The 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connects to the Viofo app for settings configuration and file transfer, and it works reliably if not speedily. There is no GPS module, nor is there an option to add one, which means no speed or location data embedded in footage. This could be a dealbreaker if you want speed evidence for insurance claims. A G-sensor automatically locks files on impact, and loop recording is standard. The camera supports microSD cards up to 256GB. Continuous recording mode works out of the box with the included cigarette lighter adapter.
Installation
The WM1 uses the same compact adhesive mount as other Viofo models and fits discreetly behind the rearview mirror. The power cable connects via a standard micro USB port. Installation takes minutes with the included trim tool for cable tucking. The small size means it is unlikely to attract unwanted attention when parked.
Verdict
The Viofo WM1 is a straightforward value proposition: decent 2K recording from a known brand at £80 to £100. The absence of GPS limits its usefulness for insurance evidence, and the older sensor means night performance is merely adequate, but as a budget front camera for everyday use it delivers exactly what it promises and nothing more.
