The Vantrue E2 Lite is proof that you don’t need to spend $300 for a capable front-and-rear dash cam. At around $100, it records 2K front and 1080p rear footage, includes built-in GPS, and pairs with a clean companion app. It’s our budget pick in the best front and rear dash cam roundup — and after extended testing, it earns that spot.
🛒 Check Price on Amazon — ~$100
Quick Verdict
| Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3/5 |
| Front | 2K QHD @ 30fps |
| Rear | 1080p FHD @ 30fps |
| GPS | Built-in |
| Wi-Fi | Yes (2.4GHz) |
| Max SD | 256GB |
| Parking Mode | Yes (hardwire kit needed) |
| Price | ~$100 |
Video Quality
The 2K front camera punches above its price point. In good light, you can read plates clearly and the 145° wide-angle lens covers intersections without excessive distortion. The Sony sensor handles daytime HDR well for this price bracket. The 1080p rear camera is adequate for daylight but modest at night — fine for capturing the car behind you. If night rear performance is critical, consider the BlackVue DR970X with its Sony STARVIS 2 rear sensor.
App and GPS
The Vantrue app connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi for live view, clip download, and settings. GPS track overlays show your route and speed on playback — useful for insurance evidence. File transfers are slower than dual-band systems, but at $100 that’s a fair trade-off.
Parking Mode and Installation
Parking mode requires a hardwire kit (sold separately, ~$15–20). Motion and impact detection trigger 30-second event clips. The rear cable is thin and routes cleanly through the headliner. See our full installation guide for step-by-step help. Our parking mode guide covers the full comparison of parking features.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros: Excellent value at ~$100 · 2K front video · Built-in GPS · Clean app · 256GB SD support · Discreet design · Front-and-rear included
❌ Cons: 1080p rear only · Single-band Wi-Fi · Parking mode needs separate kit · Night rear footage is average
Who Should Buy It?
The E2 Lite is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want front-and-rear coverage with GPS without spending more than $100. If you can stretch to $160, the Viofo A229 Plus adds a better 2K rear sensor. But for pure value at $100, the E2 Lite is our top budget pick.
🛒 Check Price on Amazon — ~$100
FAQ
Does the Vantrue E2 Lite include a rear camera?
Yes — both front unit and rear camera are included. No separate purchase needed for dual-channel recording.
What SD card should I use?
A U3/V30 endurance card (Samsung PRO Endurance or Sandisk High Endurance, 64–256GB). See our best dash cam SD card guide.
Can the Vantrue E2 Lite record while parked?
Yes, with a hardwire kit. Supports motion and impact detection parking modes with automatic low-voltage cutoff.
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