From what I understand, the X1 and X2 came out a few weeks earlier than this X5 and the X5 has a different front design and it ...  Read More

From what I understand, the X1 and X2 came out a few weeks earlier than this X5 and the X5 has a different front design and it has a more-advanced chipset than its predecessors. I mounted it using an iSaddle (instead of the supplied suction cup) because it is illegal to use anything with a suction cup on the windshield in the state where I live. So attaching it to the rear-view mirror is better and more substantial anyway. In the Summer months, I have had things just fall off of the windshield from the extreme heat.The manual provides a basic roadmap on how to install and operate the unit. I just wish Chinese companies would hire someone with a better grasp of English to write better, more succinct and more in-depth manuals. Having said that, I finally got through the entire set-up process.I tested the unit in afternoon and night time driving. I have to say, this dashcam takes some amazingly clear and detailed images. I'm actually impressed. I suggest making SURE you format your memory card BEFORE using it in the dashcam. Hit the menu button TWICE to navigate the secondary menu items like day & time, format, etc. I connected it to my laptop and navigated the menu to mass storage and VOILA! There were all the files. The X5 records in timed loops. I was afraid it was going to keep recording over every minute of footage. Not the case. It shoots for one, three or five minutes (selectable from the menu) and keeps all of the files in chronological order on the card. It should be noted that the description says 10 minutes is an option - it is NOT. Neither is there an option to turn off loop recording. Anything you want to keep can easily be copied from the card to your laptop's hard drive for safe keeping.Overall, I'm quite impressed with this (smaller than average) dashcam. It doesn't cause a terrible blind spot that a larger unit might and it takes quality images. You can even take still shots and zoom in closer for license plates and such. I just wish it had the option to link a rear-facing camera to it for parking and for capturing images behind me while driving. This is a 5-star dashcam if not for the poorly translated manual and cumbersome set-up routine. I give the camera a 5 and the manual a 4. So overall 4.5 stars.  Read Less