Review: Papago's GoSafe 520 Dash Cam

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Dashboard cameras have become a popular accessory and security feature for drivers who want to have video proof in the event of an accident or help ward off would-be car thieves or vandals.

The variety of dash cams in the market range from cheap, low-resolution models that might simply be videocameras designed to be mounted on a windshield. While these serve to capture video, they lack clarity and have limited range. 

I tested Papago's GoSafe 520 dash cam, which is the flagship model boasting a 2K resolution and 21:9 ultra-wide video. The widest range of view at 146° covers no just what is ahead but even extends to what is on the side.

The GoSafe 520, which sells on Amazon.ca for around CAD $209.99 comes equipped with Super HDR mode, a high dynamic exposure technology, which compensates quickly in extreme change of ambient light. Complete with stop and go, driver fatigue warning, motion detection, and light reminder alerts so you stay safe on the road.

Setting up the GoSafe 520 is straightforward, not unlike installing a portable GPS (Global Positioning System) on the windshield or dashboard. There is no onboard storage so users need to invest in an inexpensive microSD card, I would suggest a 16GB or 32GB model to be able to store a number of hours of video.

The whole idea of a dash cam is that it records while the car is driving as well as when the car is parked (to serve as a theft deterrent, although some thieves may be enticed by the dash cam itself).

Having a mounted camera that's always on takes some adjustment on the driver's part. Things get better once you learn to ignore it and not make it a source of distraction (we're already overwhlemed by so many driving distractions, a dash cam shouldn't be one of them).

The set-it and forget-it operation of the GoSafe 520 makes it easy to incorporate into anyone's driving routine and the device does feature a number or ways to help enhance driving itself.

The GoSafe 520 will kindly alert you when you are distracted and the car in front of you has already moved. This feature will become activated after being stopped for 10 seconds.

The GoSafe 520 comes equipped with a built-in gravity sensor. In the event of a collision it will automatically save the file.

Image quality on the Papago GoSafe 520 is simply stunning in any condition. Thanks to the F 2.0 aperture and the wide angle, you see every detail clearly without any ambiguity. It outputs video in a very portable H.264; MOV format that can easily be edited and exported.

Aside from the obvious safety and security function of a dash cam, it can also capture memorable drives and the video it produces can be used artistically when incorporated into other projects like a vacation video or even documentary. I was impressed by the GoSafe 520's ability to capture clear video on a snowy night as well as an overcast morning (both conditions are notorious for giving video camera sensors fits). Now that we have nicer weather, I am sure this dash cam will be able to capture an even clearer and brighter picture..

Dash cameras aren't another fad but a viable and useful addition to car safety and security. While many models are pretty straightforward and dumb since they only serve to record what's in front, Papago's GoSafe 520 has some smart features to assist drivers as well as preserve video in the event of a collision.

For some drivers, the idea that there's a camera recording everything might also spur them to drive more carefully and mind their surroundings. The Papago GoSafe 520 dash cam represents the a best in breed product that delivers at a high level and can easily be integrated into any driver's daily routine.

Rating: 5 out of 5