The Viofo A119 Mini 2 vs Vantrue E1 Lite is one of the most common comparisons we get asked about, and for good reason.
Both are 1440p dash cams under $100, both use Sony STARVIS sensors, and both support parking mode. On paper, they look almost identical. In practice, they’re quite different.
We’ve put both cameras through their paces across day and night conditions. Compared every spec that actually matters, and made a clear recommendation for each type of driver. If you’re stuck between these two, this is the only comparison you need to read.
Viofo A119 Mini 2 vs Vantrue E1 Lite – Quick Verdict
Choose This If…
You want the best all-rounder under $100 — smallest size, built-in GPS, and excellent value.
~$75
Choose This If…
You drive at night frequently and want the best possible low-light performance under $100.
~$95
Full Specs Comparison
| Feature | Viofo A119 Mini 2 | Vantrue E1 Lite |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1440p QHD | 1440p QHD |
| Sensor | Sony STARVIS 2 | Sony STARVIS |
| Aperture | f/2.0 | f/1.8 ✅ |
| Field of View | 140° | 145° |
| Built-in GPS | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Parking Mode | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Size | Ultra compact ✅ | Compact |
| Night Vision | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ✅ |
| App Quality | Good ✅ | Basic |
| Price | ~$75 ✅ | ~$95 |
| Overall Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Viofo A119 Mini 2 – In Depth Review
The Viofo A119 Mini 2 is one of the most impressive dash cams under $100 we’ve tested. The combination of Sony STARVIS 2, the latest generation of Sony’s low-light imaging technology. A genuinely tiny form factor makes it almost invisible once mounted. You’ll forget it’s there, which is exactly what you want.
Daytime footage is sharp and detailed at 1440p. Night footage is significantly better than most cameras at this price. Though the f/2.0 aperture means it doesn’t quite match the Vantrue E1 Lite in very dark conditions.
The built-in GPS logs speed and location with every recording. An underrated feature that becomes incredibly useful. If you ever need to use the footage in an insurance claim or dispute.
The app is clean and functional. Setup takes about 15 minutes. Loop recording and G-sensor protection are both reliable. For $75, it’s genuinely difficult to find a better-rounded dash cam.
✅ Viofo A119 Mini 2 Pros
- Sony STARVIS 2 – latest gen sensor
- Smallest 1440p dash cam at this price
- Built-in GPS included
- Solid night vision performance
- Best value on this list at ~$75
⚠️ Viofo A119 Mini 2 Cons
- f/2.0 aperture – not best in class
- No touchscreen display
- Parking mode needs hardwire kit
- No rear camera option
Vantrue E1 Lite – In Depth Review
The Vantrue E1 Lite’s headline feature is its f/1.8 aperture. And this single spec makes a meaningful, visible difference in low-light footage.
A wider aperture lets in more light, which means brighter. Cleaner night footage compared to cameras with f/2.0 or smaller apertures. If you drive frequently at night or in tunnels, underpasses, or poorly lit roads, the E1 Lite’s advantage is real.
Beyond the aperture, the E1 Lite packs 1440p resolution. Sony STARVIS sensor, built-in GPS, and parking mode support in a compact body.
It’s a seriously capable camera. The main trade-offs are the $20 price premium over the Viofo and an app experience that’s functional but less polished.
Vantrue has earned a strong reputation for build quality and reliability, and the E1 Lite reflects that. The camera feels solid, the mount is secure, and the image quality. especially at night, justifies the extra cost for the right driver.
✅ Vantrue E1 Lite Pros
- f/1.8 aperture – best night vision
- 1440p + Sony STARVIS sensor
- Built-in GPS
- Parking mode supported
- Excellent build quality
⚠️ Vantrue E1 Lite Cons
- $20 more than the Viofo
- App is basic compared to rivals
- Parking mode needs hardwire kit
- Occasionally priced over $95
Viofo A119 Mini 2 vs Vantrue E1 Lite – Head to Head
Daytime Quality
Both cameras produce excellent 1440p daytime footage. The difference is minimal both read plates clearly and capture road details well. Draw.
Night Vision
The Vantrue E1 Lite wins clearly here. The f/1.8 aperture produces noticeably brighter, cleaner night footage. Vantrue wins.
Size & Discretion
The Viofo A119 Mini 2 is significantly smaller genuinely one of the tiniest 1440p cameras available. Viofo wins.
GPS
Both include built-in GPS. Speed and location data are logged accurately on both cameras. Draw.
App Experience
Viofo’s app is more polished and easier to navigate. Vantrue’s app is functional but less intuitive. Viofo wins.
Value for Money
At $75 vs $95, the Viofo offers more features per dollar for most drivers. Viofo wins.
Which One Should You Buy?
| Your Situation | Buy This | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best all-round value | Viofo A119 Mini 2 | Better value, GPS, tinier size |
| Drive mostly at night | Vantrue E1 Lite | f/1.8 aperture wins in low light |
| Want smallest possible camera | Viofo A119 Mini 2 | One of the tiniest 1440p cameras |
| Budget under $80 | Viofo A119 Mini 2 | $75 vs $95 – clear winner |
| Premium night performance | Vantrue E1 Lite | Best low-light under $100 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict
In the Viofo A119 Mini 2 vs Vantrue E1 Lite comparison, the winner depends entirely on how you drive.
For most people, the Viofo A119 Mini 2 is the better buy smaller, cheaper, and better value for money, with Sony STARVIS 2 technology and built-in GPS. It wins 3 of the 6 categories we compared, with 2 draws.
The Vantrue E1 Lite wins on one category only but it’s an important one. If night driving is a significant part of your daily routine, the f/1.8 aperture makes a genuine, visible difference that the $20 premium is worth paying for.
Still deciding?
Read our full roundup of the best dash cams under $100 or check our complete buying guide to understand every spec before you buy. 10 Best Car Gadgets 2026 – Must-Have Picks for Every Driver