Technical Details
– Max. resolution: 1920×1080 @ 30fps
– Price: n/a
– Bit rate: 20 Mbps
– Aperture: F/1.7
– 1.5″ screen
– GPS
– HDR Super Night Vision
– Wi-Fi
– Size: 66mm x 33mm x 40mm
– Novatek NT96655 chipset
– Sony IMX322 (2MP) sensor
– Angle of view: 135° diagonal
– Operating temperature: from -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F)
– Storage temperature: from -20°C to 80°C (-4°F to 176°F)
– Video format: .MOV
– Photo format: .JPG
– Photo resolution: up to 13MP
– Supports up to 64GB MicroSD cards
– Time/date/speed stamp on video
– Loop recording, auto on/off, G-Sensor, parking mode
– Interfaces: HDMI, USB, AV
– Lock file function (hold “DOWN” button)
– Optional CPL filter
– Player software for Windows and Mac
– Apps for Android and iOS
– Internal capacitor instead of battery
– Internal microphone (mutable) and speaker
– Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
– Front Collision Warning System (FCWS)
– Adhesive mount
Mini 0903 / Nano Q Review
The Mini 0903 (also known as “Nano Q”) is one of the most advanced models of the Chinese “Mini” cameras. We’ve written a lot about this series already, so we’ll try not to repeat ourselves here too much. In case you haven’t yet heard of the Mini 080x/090x series, you might want to check out our overview of all the Mini dash cams.
Like most other Mini cams, the 0903 is quite small and discreet. In fact, at 66x33x40mm, it is the smallest camera of the series so far. And just like the other Mini cameras, it has a 1.5″ screen and an optional GPS receiver in the camera’s foot.
It records 1080p video at 30fps, with a high bit rate of 20 Mbps. Video quality is actually quite impressive: Footage is sharp and colorful, both at day and at night. Like most modern dash cams the Mini 0903 uses High Dynamic Range (HDR) to enhance night recording.
Unlike any of the previous Mini models, this camera is based on a Novatek NT96655 processor (not on an Ambarella like its brothers). The sensor used is a Sony IMX322, combined with a 7G lens.
Some other features that set the Mini 0903 apart from its predecessors:
It comes with a super capacitor instead of a battery, making it more reliable especially in very hot or cold climates. Also, it is one of the first cameras of the series to incorporate parking mode (although it’s non-buffered).
When in parking mode, the Mini 0903 records continuously at a low frame rate, resulting in a time-lapse effect. If an impact is detected by the G-sensor, it will also record normal video (30fps) for 15 seconds after the event and save the footage in a write-protected folder, so it doesn’t accidentally get overwritten.
A magnetic mount for a CPL filter is provided. CPL (circular polarization lens) filters reduce glare from sunlight, but they can also darken the video so you may want to remove them at night. The CPL filter itself is not included with the camera.
The camera can be mounted left- or right-handed as the on-screen image can be flipped by 180 degrees. It also supports Wi-Fi, so apart from viewing footage on the built-in screen, you can also view it on your smart phone. Free apps are available for Android and iOS.
Summary
The Mini 0903 is not only the smallest camera of its series, but also the one with the best video quality. It supports advanced features such as Wi-Fi, time-lapse parking mode, CPL filter, and has a capacitor instead of an internal battery.
UPDATE: Unfortunately this camera doesn’t seem to be the most reliable. Some users love it, but others report issues such as overheating, Wi-Fi problems, the unit forgetting the time and date, and loop recording not working correctly. You may want to check out the Viofo A119 instead, which appears to be more reliable, records higher resolution video, and is even stealthier than the Mini 0903.
Mini 0903 Video Samples
For full original video quality, make sure to watch on full screen and select maximum video resolution (use the cog icon in lower right corner). You may have to rewind the video after changing the resolution.
Day Time Video Sample
Day time video quality is excellent. Footage is sharp with great colors, and great visibility of details. Other cars’ license plates are easily readable, often even when driving by at high speeds.
Night Time Video Sample
Night video quality is very good. Colors are great and all details are clearly visible, but readability of license plates depends very much on the viewing angle and lighting conditions, making it a hit and miss.
Where To Buy
The Mini 0903 is no longer available for sale.
