Putting the Cobra 250R to the Test
The package came with everything needed for installation, including zip ties, cable mounts, additional 3M tape, and static mounts to assist with alignment. Setting it up in my Subaru Impreza was easy, and the rear camera cable was more than sufficient in length. I chose to use a USB adapter to power the unit from the lighter.
The dash cam powered up immediately and recognized the rear camera without any issues. The setup process was simple, although I had to enter the Wi-Fi name and password manually to use my phone as a hotspot. While I didn’t delve deeply into the app, I did use it to finish the setup. The app is packed with features, but it feels a bit bloated if all you need is basic dash cam functionality. The one-minute clip size can be a bit tedious when searching through footage, but it’s convenient.
In terms of video quality, the front camera’s 4K resolution and the rear camera’s HD quality deliver clear images with good contrast, thanks to the Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) technology. However, like many dash cams, the image can be affected by reflections from the dashboard (not an issue on cloudy days). The camera has a low-profile design, which I appreciated, but I found the buttons below the screen less intuitive than a touchscreen interface.
App or Not
One of the things I liked most about this dash cam is that you can use it without the app, which is a relief if you’re concerned about privacy. The app’s terms and conditions mention data sharing with third parties, and it asks for a lot of permissions. This was a dealbreaker for me, so I opted not to use it regularly. The app also seemed to drain my phone’s battery, and I found it unnecessary since most of the camera’s features are accessible directly from the device.
The SC 250R also allows some customization, such as adjusting the camera angle and turning off the watermark in recorded clips. It has a picture-in-picture mode, although the screen feels cramped when this feature is active. I appreciate the big “action” button, which locks a recording to prevent it from being overwritten, making it easy to save important footage on the go.
One challenge I faced was initially mounting the camera in the wrong spot on my windshield, which obstructed part of the view. After repositioning it, the setup worked well. As a side note I’ve learned that curved windshields can prove challenging for dash cams. My Subaru, though, has a flat windshield.
The rear camera proved to be especially helpful, providing a wide view when maneuvering into tight spaces. The display is small but appreciated, especially since my Subaru lacks a built-in rearview monitor.
Overall, I’m pleased with the SC 250R as a standalone dash cam. The video quality is excellent, and the installation process is user-friendly. While the app has its downsides, the camera functions well without it. If you’re looking for a dash cam with solid performance and aren’t overly concerned with the extra features that require the app, this is a good option.
Why Purchase a Cobra?
The dash cam competition is fierce. Because we have yet to test competing units, we can’t tell you how Cobra stacks up against units from Garmin, Nextbase, and Miofive, to name a few.
When purchasing a dash cam, it’s important to consider a few key factors. First, think about storage. Most dash cams require an external memory card, typically a micro SD card, since they don’t have internal storage. Many models don’t include a memory card, so you may need to buy one separately. It’s wise to opt for a high-capacity card to avoid losing footage due to automatic overwriting. Some dash cams offer cloud storage, which uploads footage remotely, though this option often requires a subscription.
Image quality is another crucial factor. To capture clear and detailed footage, look for a camera with a good sensor size, dynamic range, and quality lens. These elements are essential for ensuring that the camera can record important details, especially in case of an incident.
Purchase Considerations
Additionally, consider the features you need. Dash cams can come with GPS, emergency alerts, and radar detection, but these extras often increase the price. It’s worth considering whether these features are necessary, especially if your vehicle or other gadgets already offer similar functionality.
Lastly, safety features are a valuable consideration, particularly for older vehicles. Some dash cams include lane departure warnings or automatic emergency calls, which can enhance driving safety in cars that lack modern safety technology. By focusing on storage, resolution, features, and safety, you can select a dash cam that best suits your needs and budget.
So, why purchase a Cobra? We think the available features as well as the price point make these products strong competitors. While the entry-level SC 120 offers a compelling value, we recommend starting your search our test unit. It offers decent value and loads of features that we believe most drivers want.
How to Purchase a Cobra
You can order a Cobra online at Cobra.com. If you’re a fan of Best Buy, the units are available at most stores nationwide.
The Cobra SC 250R is available for $259.95, while the Cobra SC 220C is priced at $199.95. The Cobra SC 120, priced at $129.95, rounds out the pack.
Dash Cam Takeaway
In summation, the Cobra SC 250R worked as touted. The related Drive Smarter app supplied spot-on driving directions. Some of the alerts, though, were not accurate, including a report that we were driving 109 mph, when our top speed was always below 80 mph. Focus on the dash cam product and the app serves as an optional feature for those who want to use it.
See Also — Product Review: Ancel OBDII Scanner
