To really understand the Rexing S300, you should think of it as a solid, no-nonsense dash cam that brought a lot of great features to the table when it first hit the market. It’s not the newest kid on the block anymore, but for many drivers, it still offers reliable protection and peace of mind on the road. It’s a device that records what happens during your drive, providing crucial evidence in case of an incident, or just capturing those unexpected moments. Rexing, as a brand, has consistently offered a range of dash cams that pack a punch for their price, often focusing on clear video quality and user-friendly features. Even if it’s an older model, the S300 is a testament to Rexing’s commitment to delivering reliable automotive gadgets, which is why the brand remains a popular choice for many drivers looking for that added layer of security.
The Rexing S300 dash cam stepped onto the scene as a compact and feature-rich option for drivers seeking an extra set of eyes on the road. It’s designed to be pretty discreet, tucking away nicely behind your rearview mirror so it doesn’t obstruct your view. When it comes to something as important as capturing evidence, you want a device that’s simple to use, reliable, and provides clear footage, and the S300 aims to deliver on those fronts.
What’s Under the Hood: Key Features of the Rexing S300
The original Rexing S300 and its slightly enhanced sibling, the Rexing S300 Dash Cam Pro, were built with some impressive specs for their time. Let’s break down what makes them tick:
Crystal Clear Recording: Full HD Video Quality
One of the main reasons you get a dash cam is for video quality, right? The S300 doesn’t disappoint here, recording in Full-HD 1920×1080 resolution at 30 frames per second fps. This means you get crisp, detailed video that’s clear enough to make out important things like license plates and road signs, especially during the day.
|
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. |
Amazon.com:
Check Amazon for Getting to Know Latest Discussions & Reviews: |
Wide Dynamic Range WDR and Superior Night Vision
You know how sometimes when you’re driving, one part of the road is super bright and another is super dark, making it hard to see everything? The S300 tackles this with its Wide Dynamic Range WDR system. This tech works like a balancing act, fine-tuning the exposure so your footage isn’t washed out in bright areas or too dark in shadows. This is especially helpful during daytime driving with varying light conditions.
And for those late-night drives or gloomy weather, the S300 comes equipped with superior night vision. It uses an F2.4 high-definition camera lens, a sensitive AR0330 image sensor, and a stack of six glass lenses plus one infrared filter lens. All that tech works together to ensure high-quality recordings even when the lighting isn’t ideal, helping you see clearly when it matters most.
A Broad Perspective: 170° Wide-Angle Lens
Having a wide field of view is super important for capturing as much of the road as possible. The S300 features a 170-degree super wide-angle camera, which is great because it minimizes blind spots and captures multiple lanes of traffic. This panoramic view means you’re more likely to catch everything happening in front of your vehicle. Rexing Sim Racing Wheel: Your Ultimate Guide to High-End Immersion
Flexible Recording: Rotatable Lens
A really cool feature of the S300 is its rotatable lens. This means you can adjust it to record either the road ahead or even pivot it to record the interior of your vehicle. This flexibility can be really handy for different situations, whether you want to capture a scenic drive or have a record of what’s happening inside your car, perhaps for rideshare drivers or simply for personal security.
Never Miss a Moment: Loop Recording
Nobody wants to constantly manage their dash cam’s storage. That’s where loop recording comes in. The S300 automatically records video in continuous loops, overwriting the oldest footage when your memory card gets full. This means you don’t have to worry about manually deleting old files. your camera is always recording, ready to capture new events. You can typically set the video interval to different lengths, like three, five, or ten minutes.
Your Accident Witness: G-Sensor Accident Auto Detection
Imagine getting into an unexpected bump or sudden stop. The last thing you want to worry about is saving the footage. The built-in G-Sensor, or gravity sensor, handles this automatically. When it detects a sudden impact or significant shake, it automatically locks the current video file, protecting it from being overwritten by loop recording. This feature is super important because it secures critical evidence of any accident.
Compact Display and Storage Options
The S300 sports a 2.7-inch screen with a slim, compact design. This size is perfect for reviewing footage or adjusting settings without being a distraction.
Regarding storage, the original Rexing S300 typically came with a 16GB microSD card and supported cards up to 32GB. However, some listings for the Rexing S300 Dash Cam Pro mention support for larger microSD cards, up to 128GB. For reliable operation, it’s always recommended to use a Class 10 or UHS-1 or higher memory card with a minimum capacity of 8GB. The Ultimate Guide to the Rexing S1 Pro 1080p Dash Cam
Powering Up: Internal Battery and Connection
The S300 has an internal 3.7v 110mah Li-polymer battery with PONY Lab certification, meaning it’s been rigorously tested for high and low temperatures. However, it’s important to remember that this internal battery is primarily for emergency situations, like saving a file after a sudden power loss. For continuous recording, your dash cam is designed to be connected to a power source, usually via the included 12V car power cable that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter.
Rexing S300 Dash Cam Pro: What’s the “Pro” Difference?
When you see “Pro” added to a model name, you naturally expect some upgrades. For the Rexing S300 Dash Cam Pro, the core features like 1080p recording, 170° wide angle, WDR, and G-sensor remain, which are already excellent. The primary distinction often lies in subtle enhancements or increased capabilities. For example, some specifications for the “Pro” version indicate support for larger microSD cards, up to 128GB, which is a significant jump from the 32GB limit often cited for the standard S300. This extra storage means you can record more footage before older files are overwritten, which is a big plus for extended trips or simply having a longer history of your drives.
Beyond storage, the “Pro” might emphasize the “stealth design” or slightly improved components like the night vision image sensor, but generally, the robust core functionality of the S300 is carried over and possibly refined. It’s essentially the S300 with a few extra perks that make it even more capable.
Grab 50% OFF on RexingUSA.com Rexing S1 Pro Enhanced Dash Cam: Your Ultimate Guide to On-Road Security
Getting Your Rexing S300 Ready: Installation Made Easy
Installing a dash cam like the Rexing S300 might seem a bit daunting at first, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. You’ve got a couple of mounting options and some simple steps to follow to get it up and running.
Choosing Your Mount
The S300 typically comes with both a suction cup mount and an adhesive mounting pad.
- Suction Cup: This is great if you want to move the dash cam between vehicles or frequently adjust its position. It’s easy to attach and remove.
- Adhesive Pad 3M sticky pad: Many users, and even Rexing, recommend the adhesive mount for a more secure and permanent installation. It’s less likely to fall off in extreme temperatures and generally provides a more stable recording. Just make sure to pick a good spot the first time!
Where to Mount It: The best spot is usually behind your rearview mirror. This keeps the camera discreet, out of your direct line of sight, and close to the center of your windshield for optimal coverage. Make sure it doesn’t block your view!
Step-by-Step Installation:
-
Clean the Windshield: Before sticking anything, clean the area where you want to mount the camera. Any dirt or grease can weaken the adhesion.
-
Attach the Mount: If using adhesive, peel off the backing and press it firmly against the windshield for at least 30 seconds. If using a suction cup, press it firmly and flip the lever to lock it in place. Unlocking the Road Ahead: Your Guide to the Rexing S1 Pro Enhanced Dash Cam
-
Attach the Camera: The S300 should slide or clip onto the mounting bracket. Give it a gentle push to ensure it’s secure.
-
Route the Power Cable: This is where you can get a little tidy.
- Plug in the power cable to the dash cam.
- Tuck the cable along the edge of your headliner the fabric ceiling of your car. You can often gently pull down the headliner and push the cable in.
- Run the cable down the A-pillar the trim piece between your windshield and side door. Most cars have enough space here to tuck the cable underneath the weather stripping or plastic trim. You might need a pry tool sometimes included with dash cams to gently open the gaps.
- Continue routing it towards your 12V cigarette lighter outlet, usually along the dashboard or under the glove compartment.
- Plug in the car charger to the 12V outlet.
Pro Tip: Try to run the cable so it’s as hidden as possible. This makes for a cleaner look and prevents dangling wires from becoming a distraction.
Hardwiring Optional, but Recommended for Parking Mode
For a truly seamless installation that keeps your 12V outlet free and enables 24-hour parking monitor features if your model and a compatible hardwire kit support it, you can hardwire your dash cam directly into your car’s fuse box. While the S300’s parking monitor relies on shake detection, hardwiring ensures it has continuous power even when the car is off. This usually involves tapping into specific fuse slots that provide constant and accessory power. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, it’s always best to have a professional do this.
Grab 50% OFF on RexingUSA.com Mastering Your Rexing S1 Pro Installation: A Complete Guide
Setting Up and Optimizing Your Rexing S300 Experience
Once your S300 is physically installed, it’s time to get it configured. You want to make sure it’s recording exactly how you need it to.
First Things First: Format That SD Card!
This is arguably the most crucial step for any new dash cam, and for the S300. Before you start recording, you absolutely need to format your microSD card directly within the camera. Why? Because formatting it in the camera sets up the card with the correct file structure for your specific dash cam, preventing errors and ensuring smooth recording. If you don’t do this, you might run into issues with recordings getting corrupted or the camera not working properly.
How to format:
- Turn on your Rexing S300.
- Stop any active recording usually by pressing the REC button.
- Press the Menu button sometimes twice to enter the main settings menu.
- Navigate through the options to find “Format” or “Format SD Card”.
- Select it and confirm your choice.
Basic Settings to Tweak
Dive into the menu and customize a few things to your liking:
- Loop Recording Length: You can usually choose between 1, 3, 5, or 10-minute clips. Shorter clips can be easier to manage and transfer.
- G-Sensor Sensitivity: This controls how sensitive the camera is to impacts. If it’s too high, even a slight bump in the road might lock footage unnecessarily. If it’s too low, it might miss something. Experiment to find what works for you.
- Date and Time: Make sure this is accurate! Correct timestamps are vital for any video evidence.
- Screen Saver: You can set the screen to turn off after a set period e.g., 15 seconds, 1 minute so it doesn’t distract you while driving. The camera will still be recording in the background.
- Parking Monitor: The S300’s parking monitor uses shake detection. Ensure it’s enabled if you want the camera to automatically record when it senses an impact while parked. Remember, for continuous parking surveillance, hardwiring is usually needed.
Adding GPS Functionality
The original S300 models didn’t come with built-in GPS. However, a firmware update released in November 2016 added support for an external GPS module. If you want to log your speed and location data alongside your video footage, you’ll need to purchase and connect this separate GPS module. Once connected, you can review your driving route and speed using the Rexing GPS Player software on your computer. Rexing S3 1080p: Your Ultimate Guide to Triple-Channel Dash Cam Protection
Real-World Performance: Day and Night Footage
Let’s talk about what truly matters: how well the Rexing S300 performs when you’re out on the road.
Daytime Clarity
During the day, with its Full HD 1080p resolution and WDR technology, the S300 captures clear and vibrant footage. The 170° wide-angle lens means you get a broad view of the road, which is excellent for identifying other vehicles, lane markers, and general road conditions. License plates are generally legible in good lighting conditions, which is crucial for incident documentation.
Nighttime Reliability
Night recording can be a weak point for many dash cams, but the S300, with its F2.4 lens and image sensor, does a commendable job. While it won’t be as bright as daytime footage nothing is!, it still provides good detail in low-light conditions. You’ll find that headlights and streetlights illuminate subjects effectively, and the WDR helps prevent glaring from bright lights. This means you’re still getting useful footage even after the sun goes down, which is essential for round-the-clock protection.
Grab 50% OFF on RexingUSA.com Mastering Your Rexing Dash Cam with the Smart Hardwire Kit and 360° Motion Detection
Common Roadblocks and How to Clear Them: Troubleshooting Your Rexing S300
Even the best tech can have its quirks. If you encounter any issues with your Rexing S300, here are some common problems and straightforward fixes.
Memory Card Mayhem
This is probably the most common culprit for dash cam issues.
- “Dash cam stops recording after a few minutes” or “Files are corrupted.”
- Solution: First, ensure loop recording is ON. Then, the primary suspect is often the memory card itself. Always use a Class 10/UHS-1 or higher microSD card. Rexing specifically advises avoiding SanDisk Ultra cards with some of their cameras due to reliability concerns. instead, opt for high-performance cards like Kingston Canvas Go Plus. Try formatting the card within the camera again, or better yet, try a brand new, reputable memory card.
- “Having trouble inserting the memory card.”
- Solution: Make sure you’re inserting it correctly. If it doesn’t click into place easily, try using a coin or fingernail to gently push it until you hear a click, ensuring it locks. Don’t force it!
Power and Rebooting Puzzles
- “Dash cam turns off a few seconds after disconnecting from power.”
- Solution: This is normal! Rexing dash cams, including the S300, are designed to be continuously connected to a power source your car charger or a hardwire kit while recording. The internal battery is only meant for emergency file saving during a sudden power loss, not for extended recording.
- “Unit keeps rebooting randomly.”
- Solution: This could be a few things:
- Depleted internal battery: The internal battery might not be holding a charge well. While not for continuous power, a faulty internal battery can sometimes cause instability.
- Faulty charging cable/power source: Try using a different 12V car charger or power cable. A loose connection or damaged cable can cause intermittent power.
- Parking Monitor conflict: If you have the parking monitor feature turned on but aren’t using a smart hardwire kit for continuous power, it can sometimes cause continuous reboots as the camera struggles to find consistent power while trying to stay alert. Turn off parking monitor if you’re not hardwired.
- Firmware issue: An outdated or corrupted firmware can also lead to reboots.
- Solution: This could be a few things:
Firmware Follies: How to Update Your S300 Firmware
Keeping your dash cam’s firmware updated is really important for bug fixes, improved performance, and sometimes even new features like GPS module support for the S300.
Here’s how you generally update Rexing firmware:
- Format the MicroSD Card: Start by formatting your memory card in the dash cam to clear everything out.
- Download Firmware: Remove the card and insert it into your computer. Go to the official RexingUSA support website’s firmware download section. Find the specific firmware for your S300 or S300 Pro. It will usually be a
.zipfile containing a.binfile. - Transfer Firmware: Extract the
.binfirmware file from the.zipand copy it directly to the root directory not inside any folders of your microSD card. If there are other image files, copy those too. - Install Firmware: Safely eject the card from your computer and insert it back into your powered-off dash cam. Then, power on the dash cam by connecting it to your car’s power source. The camera should automatically detect the firmware file and begin the update. The screen might stay off, but an indicator light should show progress. This usually takes about a minute.
- Post-Update Format: Once the update is complete and the camera reboots, format the memory card again in the dash cam. This clears the firmware file from the card, preventing the camera from trying to reinstall it every time it powers on.
If you encounter issues during the update, re-download the firmware or try a manual update sequence check Rexing’s support for specific button sequences, e.g., holding power for 5 seconds, releasing for 5, then holding for another 5. Rexing R316 4K Review: Your Ultimate Road Guardian
Is Rexing a Good Dash Cam Brand? Absolutely!
So, you might be asking, is Rexing a brand you can trust? From what I’ve seen and from numerous user reviews, Rexing is generally considered a good and reliable dash cam brand. They’ve been around for a while, offering a variety of models that cater to different needs and budgets.
Here’s why many drivers like Rexing:
- Value for Money: Rexing often packs high-resolution recording, wide-angle lenses, and important safety features into devices that are competitively priced.
- Durability and Build Quality: Many Rexing dash cams are built with robust materials, and the S300’s battery even has a PONY Lab Certificate for temperature resistance. Newer models often feature supercapacitors instead of traditional lithium-ion batteries, which handle extreme temperatures from -20°F to 176°F better and have a longer lifespan, making them very durable. It’s important to remember the S300 specifically uses a Li-polymer battery, not a supercapacitor.
- Essential Features: Rexing ensures their dash cams include core functionalities like loop recording, G-sensors, and good night vision.
- Customer Support: Rexing is known for providing responsive customer support to address inquiries and issues.
While not every single model might fit every person’s exact needs, Rexing offers a solid selection that meets the demands of a wide range of drivers, focusing on safety and peace of mind on the road.
Grab 50% OFF on RexingUSA.com Rexing V1P Plus 4K Review: Your Eyes on the Road, Front and Back
Rexing S300 vs. Its Siblings: S3, V3, and V1P
The dash cam market evolves quickly, and Rexing has released many impressive models since the S300. Let’s compare the S300 to some of Rexing’s other popular offerings to help you understand where it stands.
Rexing S300: The Classic Our Focus
- Video: Full-HD 1080p @30fps.
- Channels: Single channel front or interior via rotatable lens.
- Lens: 170° wide angle, rotatable.
- Connectivity: No built-in Wi-Fi or GPS GPS module supported via firmware update.
- Power: Li-polymer battery for emergency.
- Storage: Up to 32GB S300, up to 128GB S300 Pro.
- Key Selling Point: A reliable, straightforward, and budget-friendly option for basic front-view recording and accident evidence.
Rexing S3: The Three-Channel Innovator
- Video: Triple Full HD 1080p for front, cabin, and sides. This is a huge leap, offering unparalleled coverage for rideshare drivers or anyone wanting full perimeter protection.
- Channels: Three channels front, cabin, sides simultaneously.
- Lens: 170° wide-angle for each, with infrared night vision for the cabin/side cameras.
- Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS logger. This means easy access to footage via a mobile app and tracking your routes and speed.
- Power: Uses a supercapacitor, which is more durable and temperature-resistant than lithium-ion batteries.
- Storage: Supports up to 256GB microSD cards.
- Key Selling Point: Comprehensive 3-channel coverage with modern features, supercapacitor reliability, and mobile connectivity. A significant upgrade for those who need more than just front recording.
Rexing V3: Front and Cabin Coverage
- Video: Often offers dual 1080p for front and cabin.
- Channels: Dual channel front and cabin.
- Lens: Wide field of view, good night vision.
- Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS functionality often praised by users.
- Power: Typically uses a supercapacitor.
- Storage: Supports higher capacity cards e.g., 200-500GB recommended by users for extensive recording.
- Key Selling Point: Excellent for rideshare drivers or those wanting to monitor both the road and the vehicle’s interior. Users generally appreciate its clear video and ease of use, though some report app/Wi-Fi issues.
Rexing V1P / V1-4K Series: High Resolution Powerhouses
- Video: Often features 4K resolution for the front camera and 1080p for the rear.
- Channels: Dual channel front and rear.
- Lens: 170° wide angle for front.
- Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS.
- Power: Often uses supercapacitors.
- Storage: Supports large capacity cards e.g., 128GB or higher for 4K.
- Key Selling Point: For those who prioritize the absolute best video detail, especially for front and rear coverage. Known for high-resolution recording and robust features.
In essence, while the S300 is a dependable workhorse for basic needs, Rexing’s newer models like the S3, V3, and V1P offer more advanced multi-channel recording, modern connectivity Wi-Fi, GPS, and improved durability with supercapacitors. If you’re on a budget or only need basic front-facing recording, the S300 still holds its own. But if you want the latest tech and broader coverage, Rexing definitely has options for that too.
Tips for Maximizing Your Rexing S300 Experience
To get the most out of your Rexing S300 dash cam, here are a few simple tips that can make a big difference:
- Regularly Format Your SD Card: I cannot stress this enough. Even if you have loop recording enabled, it’s a good practice to format your microSD card every month or so after backing up any important footage, of course. This keeps the card healthy, prevents fragmentation, and ensures optimal recording performance.
- Use a High-Quality Memory Card: Invest in a reputable brand’s Class 10/UHS-1 or higher microSD card. Off-brand or slower cards are a common cause of recording issues. Remember Rexing’s advice to avoid certain cards like SanDisk Ultra for optimal performance with their cameras.
- Check Your Mount Periodically: Especially if you use the suction cup mount, give it a firm press every now and then to ensure it’s still securely attached. Extreme temperature fluctuations can sometimes affect suction cups.
- Keep Firmware Up-to-Date: Regularly check the RexingUSA support website for any new firmware updates. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that keep your dash cam running smoothly.
- Clean the Lens: Just like your car’s windshield, the dash cam lens can get dirty. A quick wipe with a soft cloth can prevent hazy or blurry footage.
- Review Footage Occasionally: It’s a good idea to periodically check your recorded videos, especially during the day and night, to ensure the camera is capturing everything clearly and that your settings are optimized. This way, you’ll know it’s working as expected when you truly need it.
Grab 50% OFF on RexingUSA.com Understanding the Rexing R316 Series: What’s the Difference?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Rexing S300 record when the car is parked?
Yes, the Rexing S300 has a Parking Monitor feature that uses its built-in G-Sensor to detect vibrations or impacts. When triggered, it will automatically record a video. For this feature to work continuously, especially for extended periods, it’s typically recommended to hardwire the dash cam to your car’s power, as the internal battery is primarily for emergency situations.
What kind of memory card should I use with my Rexing S300?
You should use a Class 10 or UHS-1 or higher microSD card from a reputable brand. The standard Rexing S300 typically supports up to 32GB, while the S300 Pro may support up to 128GB. It’s important to format the card in the camera before first use and avoid certain brands like SanDisk Ultra, as they can sometimes cause compatibility issues with Rexing cameras.
How do I update the firmware on my Rexing S300?
Updating the firmware involves downloading the latest .bin file from the official RexingUSA support website to a formatted microSD card. You then insert this card into your powered-off dash cam, connect it to power, and the update will begin automatically. After the update, it’s crucial to format the memory card again within the camera.
Why does my Rexing S300 keep turning off or rebooting?
If your S300 turns off shortly after disconnecting from power, that’s normal. it’s designed to be continuously powered. If it’s rebooting randomly even when connected, common causes include a depleted internal battery for emergencies, a faulty power cable, or an incompatible/corrupted memory card. Also, if the parking monitor is enabled without a hardwire kit, it can cause power instability. Trying a different power cable, formatting/replacing the SD card, or updating the firmware can often resolve these issues.
Does the Rexing S300 have Wi-Fi or built-in GPS?
The original Rexing S300 models do not have built-in Wi-Fi or GPS. However, a firmware update released in 2016 added support for an external GPS module. If you want GPS logging speed and location data, you would need to purchase and connect this separate module. For models with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, you’d look at newer Rexing dash cams like the S3 or V3. Rexing R316 Review: Your Ultimate Guide to a Reliable Dash Cam
What’s the main difference between the Rexing S300 and the Rexing S300 Dash Cam Pro?
The Rexing S300 Dash Cam Pro is generally an enhanced version of the standard S300. While they share many core features like 1080p recording and a 170° wide angle lens, the “Pro” version often explicitly supports a larger microSD card capacity, such as up to 128GB, compared to the 32GB limit of the basic S300. It might also feature subtle component improvements.
Leave a Reply