In the fiercely competitive world of premium dashcams, the battle for supremacy is fought over every megapixel and sensor upgrade. Viofo, a brand known for leading the charge, has once again raised the bar with the launch of its A229 Ultra, pushing the boundaries of in-car recording technology. Announced on 13th January 2026, this new model builds upon the excellent A229 Pro but comes with a significant price hike. The question for drivers is whether the enhanced specifications justify the extra investment.
Specifications That Define the Cutting Edge
The core of the A229 Ultra's appeal lies in its formidable triple-camera setup. It retains the 4K resolution front camera from its Pro sibling but crucially upgrades the rear camera to a full 2K sensor. This places it ahead of key rivals like the Vantrue N4 Pro S, which uses a 2.5K rear camera. All three lenses – front, rear, and interior – are equipped with top-tier Sony Starvis 2 sensors, ensuring exceptionally crisp video quality in both bright daylight and low-light conditions.
Further enhancements include a new fisheye lens for the interior camera, providing a vastly wider field of view that captures more of the car's cabin and even a view outside the side windows. For certain users, a major new option is an externally-mounted, waterproof rear camera, offering greater flexibility and durability for installation on vehicles like motorhomes or trucks.
The Premium Price of Being the Best
These technological leaps come at a cost. The three-channel A229 Ultra carries a recommended price of £370, which is £50 more than the three-channel A229 Pro, priced at £320. This positions the Ultra at the very apex of the consumer dashcam market. While more affordable two-channel versions of both models exist, Viofo is clearly targeting enthusiasts and professionals who demand the absolute best.
The justification for the extra spend hinges on those critical moments where evidence matters most. The jump from 2K to 4K resolution might seem incremental on paper, but on the road it can be the difference between clearly identifying a face or a number plate from a distance or being left with a blurry, unusable image. Similarly, the ultra-wide interior view could be pivotal in documenting an incident inside the vehicle.
Is the Viofo A229 Ultra Worth It?
For those who prioritise having the most advanced recording technology available, the answer is a resounding yes. The A229 Ultra represents the current zenith of what is technically possible in a consumer dashcam package. It consolidates the best sensors, the highest resolutions, and thoughtful features like the optional waterproof rear camera into one unit.
However, the value proposition is nuanced. The £50 premium over the already-capable A229 Pro will be a significant consideration for many. When adding optional extras like a Bluetooth remote, a hardwiring kit, or a polarising filter, the total cost can approach £500. This makes it a specialist tool rather than a casual purchase.
In conclusion, the Viofo A229 Ultra, reviewed by Gareth Butterfield, is an uncompromising piece of kit. It has no direct equal in terms of sheer specification. Whether you should buy one depends entirely on your need for that ultimate level of detail and coverage. For everyone else, the slightly more affordable Pro model remains an outstanding choice. But for pushing the limits, the Ultra stands alone.
