
The Vantrue E360 isn’t just another dash camera; it’s a unique hybrid that can double as a 360° action camera. With the ability to provide a near-complete view of your surroundings, it aims to eliminate blind spots while also serving as a portable action cam.
But does this dual-purpose device live up to the hype? Let’s dive into an in-depth review covering its design, features, installation process, video quality, software performance, and overall usability.
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The Vantrue E360 arrives in two different versions:
- Standard Dash Camera Mode
- Ace Combo, which includes an additional selfie stick with a built-in battery to transform the dash cam into an action camera.
What’s in the Box?
- Main Camera Module with warning labels about potential overheating
- Rear Camera Module
- Car Mount with Integrated GPS
- Monopod with an Internal Battery (Ace Combo version only)
- Cigarette Port Charger
- Mounting Accessories & Cables
- Quick Start Guide (primarily in Chinese)
Upon first handling the camera, it is clear that build quality is decent but not exceptional. The device is made of plastic, and while it feels solid, it doesn’t quite match the premium feel of GoPro or Insta360 cameras.
One major concern is the exposed fisheye lenses, which are highly susceptible to scratches. If you opt for this device, you should handle it with extra care to maintain optimal video clarity.
Design & Build Quality
At first glance, the E36S looks like a typical high-end dash cam, but its standout feature is the dual fisheye lens setup, covering more than 200° diagonally. This gives it an edge over traditional dash cams, allowing for almost complete side visibility, which is crucial for accident documentation and law enforcement interactions.
However, there are some drawbacks:
- No 4K Video Support: The front and rear lenses utilize Sony IMX675 5MP sensors, which are not capable of native 4K recording. The advertised 5.2K resolution is only possible in “stitched mode” combining both front and rear footage.
- Stitching Artifacts: The gap between the lenses is larger than in competing 360° cameras, which can cause visible seams in stitched footage.
- No Built-in Battery for Dash Cam Mode: Unlike traditional action cameras, the main unit lacks a built-in battery. Instead, it relies on the car’s power supply or the selfie stick (for action mode).
Despite these trade-offs, the camera excels in its primary function: providing a wide field of view for car surveillance.
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Installation & Setup
Installing the Vantrue E360 is similar to traditional dash cams, but a few considerations make the process slightly more complex:
Mounting the Main Unit
- The mount features a ball-based mechanism, allowing easy angle adjustments.
- Ensure the camera does not block your line of sight and is within the windshield wipers’ reach.
- GPS is built into the mount, meaning you don’t need a separate GPS module.
Rear Camera Installation
- Uses a USB-C connector and comes with an L-shaped cable.
- The cable is long enough for SUVs, but some users may find routing it neatly a bit challenging.
- Unlike front cameras, the rear camera angle is adjustable, ensuring optimal positioning.
Once mounted, the small touchscreen display allows for quick configuration. While not the most responsive, it provides enough control to tweak exposure settings, enable GPS tracking, and adjust resolution.
Video Quality & Performance
The daytime footage is solid, offering good dynamic range and sharp colors. However, since it uses a fisheye lens, objects closer to the car appear clear, while details in the distance can look blurry.
Daylight Performance
✅ Excellent side coverage (near-complete 360° view) ✅ Decent dynamic range ✅ Interior module performs well (ideal for ride-sharing drivers) ❌ Remote objects lack detail (fisheye lens distortion)
Low-Light Performance
The front camera struggles at night, particularly with license plate readability beyond 5-10 meters. On the other hand, the interior infrared camera does an excellent job of illuminating the cabin.
✅ Good night vision for interior module ✅ Infrared LEDs help in dark environments ❌ Weak front camera performance in low-light ❌ License plates difficult to read from a distance
Action Camera Mode
When transformed into an action cam, stabilization becomes an issue.
✅ Portable design with quick-release mechanism ✅ 360° field of view ❌ No built-in stabilization ❌ Noticeable stitching issues
For extreme sports enthusiasts, Insta360 and GoPro offer far better stabilization and clarity.
Software & Smartphone App
Vantrue has put significant effort into developing a companion app, which allows for:
- Live viewing and camera control
- File transfers via dual-band Wi-Fi
- Editing and exporting footage
Unfortunately, at the time of this review, there is no proper stitching software available for PC/Mac users. This makes exporting stitched 360° videos cumbersome, especially compared to Insta360’s mature software.
Key Features & Specs
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Image Sensor | Sony IMX675 5MP |
Max Resolution | 5.2K (stitched) |
Field of View | 200°+ diagonal |
Storage Support | MicroSD (up to 512GB) |
Stabilization | None |
Power Source | Super Capacitors (Dash) / Battery (Action) |
Infrared Night Vision | Yes (Interior Cam) |
Water Resistance | None |
Pros & Cons of Vantrue E360
✅ Pros:
- Dual functionality – Works as both a dash cam and 360° action cam.
- Super wide-angle coverage – Eliminates blind spots around the vehicle.
- 5.2K recording resolution – Offers high-quality stitched footage.
- Quick-release mounting system – Easily switch between modes.
- Infrared night vision for interior recording – Ideal for rideshare drivers.
- Good dynamic range – Captures balanced lighting in various conditions.
❌ Cons:
- No built-in image stabilization – Action footage can be shaky.
- Limited details on distant objects – Fisheye distortion reduces readability.
- Lack of advanced editing software – No dedicated stitching tool for seamless 360° video.
Final Verdict: Is the Vantrue E360 Worth It?
The Vantrue E360 is an innovative concept, blending a dash camera and a 360° action camera into one device. While it excels in providing an extensive field of view for car security, it falls short as an action camera due to stitching issues and lack of stabilization.
If you need a highly versatile dash cam with 360° coverage, this is one of the best options available. However, if you’re mainly looking for an action camera, alternatives like Insta360 X4 or GoPro Hero 12 will serve you better.
Who Should Buy Vantrue E360?
✅ Ride-sharing drivers & taxi drivers ✅ Car owners who want a 360° dash cam ✅ Users who need a basic 360° action cam
Would you consider buying the Vantrue E360? Let us know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can the Vantrue E360 be used as a regular action camera?
Yes, the E36S can be detached from its mount and used as a handheld 360° action camera, but lack of image stabilization makes it less ideal for extreme sports.
❓ Does the Vantrue E360 record in true 5.2K?
Yes, but only in stitched mode, where the footage from both lenses is combined.
❓ Does the Vantrue E360 support 4K recording?
No, the maximum resolution for individual lenses is 1944p. The 5.2K output is achieved by stitching front and rear footage.
❓ Can I use the Vantrue E360 for parking surveillance?
Yes, but it requires a hardwiring kit (sold separately) to enable motion detection and parking mode.
❓ Is the Vantrue E360 waterproof?
No, the E36S is not waterproof, so it’s not ideal for underwater or heavy rain use.
❓ Does it have built-in GPS?
Yes, the GPS module is integrated into the car mount, enabling location tracking and speed logging.