What Is a Dash Cam?

A dashboard camera, also known as a dashcam or car DVR, is a camera that records the view through a vehicle’s front windshield or other windows. Some dashcams also have a camera that can record the car’s interior in 360 degrees. Dashcams can automatically send pictures and videos using 4G technology.
Dashcams and event data recorders (EDRs) can also record information like acceleration, speed, steering angle, GPS data, and power source voltage.

Using a suction cup or adhesive tape, the camera is typically attached to the interior windshield, rear-view mirror, or dashboard. A rear camera is often placed on the back window or registration plate and connected to a display monitor.

The resolution of the dashcam determines the quality of the video. Full HD or 1080p is the standard resolution, but some dashcams offer higher resolutions. They may also have features like a wide-angle lens, f/1.8 aperture, and night vision mode. Dashcams can be used as evidence in case of accidents or crimes. They can also capture video and pictures of vandalism when parked and send them to the owner using 4G.

A good dashcam automatically starts recording when the car is started and overwrites old video when the storage is full. In a collision, a dashcam with a G-Sensor will save the recording from being viewed later as evidence. Some dashcams have a built-in still camera for taking snapshots of your route, although the image quality may be better than a smartphone. The camera’s field of view is important, as a wider-angle lens captures more detail.

GPS is also a useful feature in dashcams, allowing you to pinpoint the location where a video was recorded, which is helpful for accidents or other incidents. Dashcams may have built-in screens or rely on smartphone apps for video playback.

When installing a dashcam, it’s important to position it outside of your line of sight to avoid distraction. Smaller cams without screens can be placed under the rearview mirror.

1

Thinkware Q800PRO Car Dash Cam

Specs

• Part Number: TW-Q800PRO32C
• Image Resolution: 2K QHD 1440P
• Recording Channels: 1

Pros

• Captures video in high-quality resolution
• Wide lens angle
• Can be managed from a matching app
• Can serve as a vehicle tracking device

Cons

• Relatively high price point
• Can be difficult to operate
• No installation or setup instructions included

We have a top recommendation for a dashcam that we personally tested. This particular model from Thinkware stood out due to its high-quality 2K QHD video resolution, which provides clear images of street signs, road markings, and license plates with its 140-degree coverage. It also has a dedicated app that allows you to edit and manage recording files using your smartphone. Additionally, it can connect to the cloud and provide real-time tracking of your car’s location if there are available hotspots.

While we really like this model, there are a couple of things to be aware of. It may not be as refined as other dashcams in its price range. One downside is that it doesn’t come with installation or setup instructions and needs an LCD display, making it slightly more challenging to use than other options.

2

Vantrue N2 Pro Uber Dual 1080p Dash Cam

Specs

• Part Number: N2 Pro
• Image Resolution: 1080P
• Recording Channels: 2

Pros

• Competitive pricing
• Records front and interior of vehicle
• Automatically records when the ignition is on or motion is detected

Cons

• Quality control issues are common
• Video looping issues are common

When you search for “dash cam” on Amazon, the number of results can be overwhelming. However, among the options, you can find a Chinese brand offering professional-grade dash cams at a lower cost than other top brands.

The main focus of this brand is the front lens, which consists of six individual glass elements and boasts an impressive f/1.8 aperture. This feature is excellent for capturing clear images even in low-light conditions. Additionally, a second lens with an f/2 aperture faces the cabin and is supported by four IR LED lights. This combination and a Sony IMX323 sensor improve footage quality in challenging and dim environments. This functionality is particularly useful for professional drivers who may want to review incidents that occur during nighttime. The dash cam also has a built-in microphone to record sound.
The dash cam offers continuous loop recording, meaning it will continuously overwrite old footage as needed. It also has a G-sensor that detects incidents and automatically saves the corresponding footage to the microSD card. However, you must purchase an optional GPS mount to track speed, location data, and the video file.
The image quality of this dash cam is generally very good, thanks to the excellent Sony sensor. Connecting the device to a laptop or PC is straightforward. The front and rear footage are conveniently saved as separate files, making it easier to find the desired clip without browsing through various folders.
The dash cam also includes a valuable Parking Mode feature at this price point. It can be set to automatically record whenever it detects motion.

However, keep in mind that it requires a power source. You can either hard-wire it into the vehicle using a separate accessory or connect it to an external power source.

3

Vantrue N4 Pro Uber Dual 1080p Dash Cam

Specs

• Part Number: N4 Pro
• Image Resolution: 1080P
• Recording Channels: 2

Pros

• Video Capacity 4K
• Records front and interior of vehicle
• Automatically records when the ignition is on or motion is detected

Cons

• Quality control issues are common
• Video looping issues are common

The Vantrue N4 is a powerful three-channel dash cam that can simultaneously record the car’s front, interior, and rear views. It offers HD or higher resolution for recordings and can record two views in 4K and HD. The front and interior views are captured by sensors in the main front-facing unit, while the rear view is recorded by a separate camera with a long cable that can reach the back window of most vehicles.

One standout feature of the N4 is that it doesn’t rely on a smartphone for settings or reviewing clips. It has a compact, clear rear screen and dedicated buttons to access features and adjust settings. This makes it a convenient option for those who prefer not to use a separate device.

The N4 also includes motion detection, not just impact detection. This means it can activate and start recording when it detects activity around the car while parked. Additionally, it utilizes a robust supercapacitor to power these functions when the car is turned off, instead of relying on a traditional battery that may be affected by extreme temperatures in the car.

4

BlackVue DR900X-2CH Dash Cam

Specs

• Part Number: DR900X-2CH
• Image Resolution: 4K
• Recording Channels: 2

Pros

• High-resolution imagery
• Wide lens angles
• Front and rear coverage
• App compatible

Cons

• Premium price point
• Lack of screens makes it hard to find proper recording angle

This camera is an improved version of our top pick. It’s a dual-channel system with similar features and design but offers higher-definition 4K resolution and a wider field of view. According to Tran, the video clarity of the DR900X is unmatched among dash cams and helps with reading license plates and capturing important details on the road. The front camera has a wide 162-degree field of view, giving a broader perspective compared to other dashcams. It also has optional cloud storage, parking mode, and night vision capabilities.

5

Nextbase 622GW Dash Cam

Spce

Video quality: 4K

Viewing angle: 140 degrees

GPS tracker: Yes

Memory: MicroSD card (not included)

Pros

• Stellar day and night captures
• Modular add-on 1080p cameras provide interior and rear coverage
• Alexa voice control and automatic emergency notifications

Cons

• Expensive

The 622GW Dash Cam offers top-of-the-line 4K recording quality, allowing you to capture finer details and important information like number plates. It also includes a Rear Camera Module that records at 1080p, providing multiple angles for greater peace of mind.

With the new image stabilization system, the 622GW minimizes the impact of vibrations and bumps on your footage. This results in steadier playback and makes it easier to see important details, such as number plates.

Unlike other Dash Cams, the 622GW features Dual 2.4GHz & 5GHz Wi-Fi. The 5GHz Wi-Fi offers faster transfer speeds, enabling you to quickly download footage from your Dash Cam to your phone.

One unique feature of the 622GW is defogging, essential for foggy conditions. It allows you to “see through fog” and enhances the visibility of vehicles and number plates in such situations. This feature can be crucial for identifying incidents or providing evidence.

Additionally, the 622GW offers Super Slow Motion playback at 1080p and 120fps. This upgrade allows you to view footage in slow motion, aiding in incident analysis and capturing important details like number plates to determine fault.

6

Garmin Dash Cam Mini2

Specs

• Image Resolution: 1440P
• Recording Channels: 1

Pros

• Compact and easy to tuck out of the way
• Easy to set up and install
• Wide lens angle and high resolution

Cons

• Short battery life keeps cords attached
• May be too small for large hands to operate

After conducting hands-on testing, we have awarded the Garmin Mini2 with the best mini dash cam title. While smaller options are available, this dash cam doesn’t require complicated installations like many others. Despite its compact size, it still features an LCD display and a 140-degree lens angle. Surprisingly, the video quality remains high-resolution regardless of the time or conditions we tested it in. The swivelling mount is a convenient addition that simplifies the setup process.

However, it’s important to note that the Garmin Mini2 has some drawbacks. Its battery life is short, so you must keep it connected to the 12-volt port with wires hanging in front of the windshield. Additionally, its small size can make operating for individuals with larger hands challenging.

7

Garmin Dash Cam 67W

Specs

Video quality: 1440p

Viewing angle: 180 degrees

GPS tracker: Yes

Memory: MicroSD card (16GB card included)

Pros

• Impressively small package
• Great quality video
• Doddle to install

Cons

• Some features need extra kit-
• Wide-angle warps edge of frame

The Garmin 67W is an upgraded version of the already impressive 66W, offering additional connected features that make it an even more attractive package. Despite its incredibly small size, comparable to a matchbox, it packs a high-quality sensor that captures crisp 1440p footage. The HDR function enhances the video quality, especially in challenging weather conditions. During our tests, the footage looked great, and the added resolution allowed us to zoom in on the computer to read number plates or spot important details.

Setting up the 67W is easy and comes with a user-friendly smartphone app. What sets it apart from its predecessor is the inclusion of connected features. For example, when connected to a trusted Wi-Fi network, it can automatically upload saved clips to Garmin’s cloud.

It’s important to note that Garmin charges for a storage plan, and to fully utilize the connected features, such as remotely checking on a parked car from anywhere, the camera must be hardwired to the vehicle’s power source. Additionally, the camera needs to be connected to a Wi-Fi network, which can be achieved by parking near a router or using a mobile hotspot that requires constant power. These additional requirements can become complex and costly.

However, if you simply want excellent quality footage recorded by a device that fits in your shirt pocket, the Garmin 67W is a fantastic choice.

8

Viofo A129 Pro Duo

SPECIFICATIONS

Video quality: 4K

Viewing angle: 140 degrees

GPS tracker: Yes

Memory: MicroSD card (not included)

Pros

• Great value for a front/rear cam
• Crisp footage

Corns

• Lots of trailing wires
• Relatively bulky front camera unit

You may not be familiar with Viofo, but that shouldn’t stop you from considering their Pro Duo model, which offers exceptional value for money with its 4K resolution. While it may not have the sleek design of other well-known brands, this package includes front and rear cameras.

Having both cameras allows for comprehensive coverage, although it does mean dealing with some wires that can be hidden under the headliners of your vehicle. The front camera can record in glorious 4K resolution (3840 x 2160p), providing detailed footage with Wide Dynamic Range for vibrant colours in any weather conditions.

What sets this package apart is that it also includes night vision, a parking mode, motion detection, automatic emergency recording, GPS tracking, and dual-channel 1080p recording. All of these features are available for a price under £200 / US$250. This package is worth considering if you drive many miles and want complete camera coverage without breaking the bank.

9

Kenwood DRV-A601W Dash Cam

SPEC

Video quality: 1080p

Viewing angle: 135 degrees

Integrated GPS: Yes

Screen: None

Pros

• Great video quality 
• Neat compact package
• Easy to set up and use

Corns

• Low on features
• Additional extras quickly add up

Kenwood’s top-of-the-line 4K camera delivers excellent footage quality comparable to the Nextbase 622GW. However, it needs to catch up regarding image stabilization in darker conditions, particularly on rough roads.

While it lacks some of the additional features found in the Nextbase camera, such as Alexa and What3Words integration, the Kenwood camera comes at a more affordable price, costing less than £200 and even includes a 64GB memory card.

Furthermore, you can purchase a bundle that includes the Kenwood camera, a hardwire kit, an SD card, and a rear camera, all for the same price as the basic Nextbase 622 model.

10

Cobra SC 400D Dash Cam

SPEC

Camera: 1296p Super HD

Field of view: 160°

Screen: 2.0-inch LCD

GPS: Yes

Pros

• Excellent video captures, day and night, front and back
• 3-inch touchscreen display
• Voice control
• Alexa support (if you care)
• 2160p (4K UHD) if you want it

Cons

• Very expensive
• Rear camera isn’t removable

The CDR 900 E dashcam starts impressively with its sleek and durable design and some premium features. With a wide 160-degree lens, a 3MP camera, and 1296P Super HD recording capability, it captures high-quality footage with a wide field of vision. Connecting to your smartphone via Wi-Fi and reviewing the footage using the free app is easy.

While the CDR 900 E has many positive aspects, it must catch up in several areas. The user interface can be confusing and not very user-friendly, and the microphone quality could be better, making the audio sound like it’s coming from outside the car. Moreover, considering its higher price, it is disappointing that the dashcam cannot record speed or location information. These drawbacks make it less competitive compared to other options available.

11

Nexar Beam Full HD 1080p Dash Cam

Specs

• Part Number: B07ZPGSKLS
• Image Resolution: 1080P
• Recording Channels: 1

Pros

• Competitive pricing
• Easy to set up and install
• App makes video file management simple

Cons

• Power wires are clumsy and unsightly
• Lack of screen makes it difficult to find the right angle

The Nexar Beam is a reliable and affordable option for those seeking a dashcam with good quality. While it may not bring groundbreaking features, it offers solid performance for its size and price range. The 1080p video quality surpasses many cheaper alternatives and remains stable even when encountering vibrations. Setting up and installing the dashcam is a breeze, taking no more than 15 minutes, and the accompanying app is user-friendly, allowing for easy video file management.

However, the dashcam does have its drawbacks. The power line connecting to the 12-volt port of the vehicle can be unsightly and cumbersome. Additionally, the lack of a screen makes it difficult to adjust the camera angle precisely and leaves some uncertainty about whether it is recording.

12

Mio 4K Quality Dash Cam

SPEC

Video quality: 4K

Viewing angle: 140 degrees

Integrated GPS: Yes

Screen: 2.2in IPS

Pros

• Premium feel
• 4K video recording
• Rear display

Cons

• Large 4K video files
• Optional hardwiring kit needed for parking mode

We were pleasantly surprised by the Miofive. This dashcam offers a premium design, a user-friendly smartphone app, and impressive 4K video recording with its 140-degree lens. It has ample 64GB storage and fast 5GHz Wi-Fi for quick footage transfer to your phone. The dashcam also features a discreet windscreen mount and optional parking mode with a hardwiring kit. Despite being the first product launched by a new company through Kickstarter, the Miofive is a high-quality dashcam. Don’t let its lack of track record deter you, as it delivers excellent performance.

Dash Cams Types

Dashcams, also known as dashboard cameras, truck DVRs, connected cameras, or event data recorders (EDRs), are cameras installed in vehicles to continuously record the view through the front windshield. Some dashcams also have additional cameras to record the interior of the vehicle or the driver.

Certain cabin cams come with a screen that can be attached to the rear-view mirror using a debris ring, strap, or replacing it. Others can be mounted on the windshield, dashboard, or other suitable surfaces inside the vehicle.

Many dashcams come with rechargeable batteries, which are unnecessary when the dashcam is connected to the car’s battery or uses capacitors for power.

Standalone Units

Most dashcams available on the market are standalone units, meaning they operate independently and don’t rely on the vehicle’s existing systems. These dashcams are convenient to set up and are usually more affordable. Setting them up typically involves running a few wires or sometimes none.

These standalone dashcams typically include a lens, a port for a mini SD memory card, and possibly an LCD display. The size of the dashcam can vary greatly depending on the model you choose. It’s important to carefully select a dashcam that fits discreetly in your vehicle and meets your specific needs.

Multi Lens Dash Cams 

Having more lenses in a dash camera can improve the documentation of an event. While a front-facing camera is usually sufficient for most people, having a rear-facing camera can be crucial if someone hits your car from behind. That’s why many dash cams offer the option to attach lenses to the car’s front and back.

A dash camera with multiple lenses can also record the inside of the vehicle, which can be useful for proving that you were not distracted while driving or for rideshare drivers as a security measure. The only downside is that adding more lenses can increase the price of the dash camera.

Integrated Dash Cams 

Integrated dash cams are not as common as standalone units, but they exist and can be worth considering. These dash cams are built into the car’s existing operating systems, such as the touch screen navigation system, resulting in a clean and seamless installation. You will typically see a small lens and housing attached to the windshield.

However, installing an integrated dash cam is not as simple as installing a standalone unit. It often requires separating the dashboard and carefully wiring everything together. Additionally, once installed, moving the integrated dash cam to another vehicle may be difficult as it can be more trouble than it’s worth.

Do you need a dash cam?

A dash cam can be helpful on the rare occasion you’re involved in a crash or similar incident. But they aren’t always practical or worth the investment depending on your driving record.

Pros

• Dash cams constantly film while you’re driving so that they can capture accidents or similar incidents you may be involved in.
• This footage can prove that you are not guilty if you want to make an insurance claim or provide evidence in a police investigation.
• The most common type of accident in Australia is the rear part of another car. If you are the driver of the rear-ending car or other vehicles, you’re usually considered to be at fault unless you can not prove otherwise. If you are innocent, then a good dash cam can help prove it.
• It can also help you identify cars that may be trying to escape from an event in which you were involved.
• Dash cams records driving data during an incident such as speed, impact points and location (using GPS). This could be valuable information in an investigation or an insurance claim.
• Dash cams are also easy to record road trips (though a GoPro can be the best option).

Cons

• Many drivers are never involved in accidents so they won’t get too much use from a dash cam.
• A dash cam can only record video of its scenes (that is, in front of the car, unless you have a back camera installed behind you as well).
• Many dash cams don’t give a clear picture of another car’s number plate unless that car is very close, directly in front and in bright daylight without glare (and some models still fight).

What to look for in a dash cam?

We will step you through what to think about when shopping for a dash cam, from video capabilities, recording options, power connections, and so on. 

Video Capability

• Dual-channel support: This is what you will need if you want to run both front and rear cam or interior cameras (cabin-view). Interior cameras are generally located on the dash cam, but the rear cameras are separate and require additional wairing. 
• A decently wide field of view: You will see cameras with a 90-degree field of view, but if you go for 120 to 140 degrees, you’ll capture more of what is around you. Some cameras offer 160- to 180-degree lenses. Keep in mind that the wider the field of view, the more fish-eye distortion and the more processing involved to compensate.
• Day and night video recording (night standard is a big variant).
• Infrared lighting is important: If you want to ensure good captures of nocturnal events inside your car cabin.
• High Dynamic Range (HDR) is unnecessary but it produces more detailed video because of better contrast. It also usually indicates richer color.
• Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) is much like above, except it generally refers only to color and not contrast.
• Do you need 4K UHD?: It is easy to fall victim to the sportsmanship of a higher-res image. In our tests, the gain in detail from 4K video (2160p) can vary, but the storage investment is consistently heavy: four times the storage of 1080p, or around 1GB for every three minutes of video. For most purposes,1080p is the more frugal everyday choice. Does not avoid 4K UHD—which is a feature in our best overall picks—but read the reviews first so you know whether the cost is justified.

Recording options

• Continuous loop recording to minimize storage requirements. Video is recorded, then immediately overwritten at a specified interval unless saved. Video is saved (protected from overwriting) automatically when an incident is detected. Most dash cams will overwrite older recordings when they run out of space. 
• Cloud storage is available with a few dash cams. Uploading to the cloud in real-time is a nice hedge against damage and theft—assuming the thief isn’t smart enough to kill the dash cam immediately. It’s also handy for those managing fleets of vehicles, as incident videos are safely stashed online.
• Self-powered recording when power fails, so you can be sure to capture all of an incident. This requires a battery or large super-capacitor (see below in(“Power connections”). The camera should have a setting that allows you to specify how long the camera runs off 12-volt before shutting down. 
• Incident recording is triggered by impact (G) sensors or when in parking mode (see below) by motion detection.
• MicroSD card storage. Pricier dash cams bundle a storage card. Some come with larger cards, and some budget models come without. There are often bundles available with the card. Some cameras opt for hard-wired internal storage, like the Miofive 4K.

Power connections

Before buying, most people do not consider that dash cams connect to a power source in your car via a physical cable. That cable can sometimes be tucked out of the way, but more likely than not you will have a loose cable hanging somewhere. You can sometimes fix this with a longer or shorter cable (or a professional installation). Keep that in mind as you consider your power options:

• Auxiliary 12-volt Power (adequate): Most vendors have stuck with powering their dash cams via the auxiliary 12-volt power socket (also known as the cigarette lighter) and USB cables. It can lead to an unsightly cable run, and the power disappears when you turn off the car, but it’s universal and easy.
• Hard-wired 12-volt power (better): Most vendors offer kits that connect the dash cam directly to a constant 12-volt source in your wiring harness behind the dash. This provides always-on power, but it isn’t particularly easy to install.
• OBD-II 12-volt power (better): Outliers like the Owl and PureCam use the OBD-II connector for constant 12-volt power. OBD-II-to-USB power cables are now available separately (as an alternative to hard-wiring kits that draw constant 12-volt power from the wiring harness). I recommend one with a USB Type-A port, which will accommodate any dash cam. Most of those with captive cables I’ve seen are mini-USB. The only downside is a long cable run, as the OBD-II port is usually under the dash next to the driver’s left knee.
• Rearview 12-volt power (better): Another option that features a super-short cable run is powering your dash cam using your auto-dimming rearview mirror. You can find adapters for this at Dongar Technologies. If your car qualifies, this is by far your best option.
• Battery (or super-capacitor) power: Many dash cams come with super-capacitors, which allow the dash cam to operate for a brief period after losing regular control—such as during a collision. They don’t record for very long, though, and sometimes not at all. A battery gives you a better chance of recording an entire incident, even when 12-volt power is lost. If run time is sufficient, it also allows you to record the car turned off for a while. 

Other handy features

• Phone connectivity is not essential but can make offloading video and configuring the dash cam easier. We’ve noticed recently (12/15/2020) that phone apps are starting to require later versions of Android. If you’re rocking anything older than 8, keep that in mind.
• GPS: This feature could be the tipping point if you use your captured video to resolve a dispute. Water-marking the video is common, but GPS info is also beneficial for mapping your travels when embedded into the video. GPS will also automatically set the time in better cameras.
• Parking monitoring: This can mean two things. They are running the dash cam continuously in low frame-rate mode to save card space and battery or running in standby mode and awakening when motion or g-forces are detected. We’ve reviewed cameras with a large battery to monitor the car with the 12-volt turned off for several days, but most cameras require a constant 12-volt source.

How to Test Dash Cam?

Now a day, there are a huge number of dash cams on the market today, and some of them are really very cheap. But the good quality dash cams go further, with better quality, better connectivity, more driver assistance or more safety features. 

We have reviewed every dash cam on our list. Its means that we have installed them and tested them for real-world driving. 

You will see our verdicts in the entries above, but here is a run-down of what to look for:

• Angle of view: Dash cams usually have wide-angle lenses. The wider the field of view, the more likely it is to take in what is happening in junctions and side streets, but objects up ahead will be smaller.

• Resolution: 4K capture is excellent, and high resolution means clearer, sharper images with more detail, but it also means files are bigger and you need more storage. 

• Battery-powered dash cams: Some dash cam have batteries and can easily be installed without wires, but the batteries will not last long – typically around 30 minutes. Though the cables may look messy, some dash cams can plug into a USB socket or 12V supply and keep running indefinitely. 

• Professional installation: The other alternative is to install your dash cam professionally with hidden wiring. It will cost more, and you can not move the camera from one vehicle to another, but it looks better.

• Protection while parked: A wired-in dash cam can run while your car is parked and record suspicious activity, attempted theft or parking bumps.

• Rear and Front dash cams: Sometimes, the hazard is from behind, so a rear-facing dash cam can be handy. We have a separate buying guide to the best rear and Front dash cams

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. Some front-facing dash cams come with an optional rear camera upgrade.

• Interior cameras: Some drivers, particularly those who make a living carrying passengers, will want a dash cam that records the car’s interior. Our best Uber dash cam

 The guide recommends the best options for this.

• High Dynamic Range: This HDR sounds like a feature for a high-end digital camera, but HDR capture can be an advantage in bright, high-contrast lighting.

• Night vision: We do not just drive in the daytime. A dash cam with night vision can also offer protection and security at night.

• Wi-Fi: Some best dash cam with a Wi-Fi connection can communicate with a smartphone app to control settings or check videos.

• Cloud Subscription: An optional extra with some dash cams. This could be useful for fleet owners keeping track of several vehicles or for people who want to see what is happening (or what happened) remotely.

• Driver-assist safety aids: Some dash cams can sound warnings if you cross lane markings or warn you that a vehicle near has stopped in traffic.

• Voice control: You have to keep your hands on the wheel while driving, so voice control is a safety feature, not just a techno advantage.

• GPS and emergency services: It is the last item on our list, perhaps the most important. If you are involved in an accident, you can not call anyone for help, and some of the best dash cam can detect a collision and automatically notify the emergency services. And also send your exact location to the emergency services through GPS.

How to install a dash cam?

You can install a dash cam by connecting it to a 12V power supply (such as the cigarette lighter in older cars) or hardwiring the unit into the vehicle itself. While you can attach most models with a bit of DIY (with instructions often coming in the box). You can also ask for your camera installation if you purchase from car shop retailers such as Supercheap Auto.

If you decide to play handyman, align the cord with the roof lining and behind the trim panel for a neater installation to avoid being left with a lot of wire hanging from the camera. An additional cord can usually be purchased if you need it for a tidy interior.

When choosing where to install your dash cam, you need to consider the standard recommendation behind the rear-view mirror. You will also want to select spots that the windscreen wipers can reach, or you may not be able to properly see an event during wet weather.

Back-Up

Dash cam manufacturers have also entered into the rear backup cam business. Many new model dash cam has dual cameras that can be used side-by-side to get a large field of view or as simultaneous forward- and backward-facing cam.

A rear-facing cam is not necessary for everyone, though it is convenient when backing out of a driveway or parking spot. However, many new cars have this feature built-in, as well as GPS navigation and other safety features. You can also get standalone options in addition to a dash cam.

Dash cam battery

You may also need to perches a dash cam battery, especially if the dash cam you are viewing at records while your vehicle is parked. As most of all dash cam are connected to the car battery, it may drain the battery, potentially leaving you stranded. As a result, a dash cam battery may be a worthwhile investment, with most brands offering charging stations or additional batteries to deal with this.

Tips and Tricks

As with something you have done for decades, you pick up a few tips and tricks to select the right product and/or use it. That is the case with us and dash cams. To help you bridge the information gap, here is a selection of what we have learned along the way.

• Dash Not Glass: Suction cups can have trouble sticking when things heat up. Heat and weight may yank it free from the windshield while you drive. Mounting it to the dash puts the force of gravity in your favor. 
• Front and Rear: Don’t just mount a dash cam on the front end—accidents happen out back, too. Setting up a dash cam on both ends is the best way to protect yourself. 
• Mount Within Legal Limits: Dash cams aren’t illegal, but some areas have restrictions on where you can mount a dash cam, so you should know the local guidelines.
• Verify Your Settings. Like any camera, dash cams have a number of settings to enhance clarity. Take the time to make sure the settings are dialed in to match the position of your unit to ensure a good view and image quality. 

FAQ

Which dash cam brand should I use?

Now a day, there are lots of Car Dash Came with many brands and models available and no shortage of specs and features in each dash cam. Getting out of first gear can be challenging. If it is your first time interring into the market. 59% of survey respondents said they purchased their dash cam for safety. 

It is important to buy one that gives you additional peace of mind, even when you have parked it. One-third (33%) of respondents said they had previously researched and compared various brands and models. And 18% of all respondents wished they had bought a good car dash camera. 

When you buy a car camera, you have to think about the peace of mind and feeling safe behind the wheel. So looking into all your options and then choosing a model that can help should you get into an accident is a sure-fire way. You won’t be left spinning your wheels.

Are there any alternatives to dash cams?

If you do not have any interest in impact detection, GPS tagging, or speed, consider attaching an action cam instead (like a GoPro).

Some deliver much better video quality and have a range of accessories and mounts. Depending on the mount, you can place the camera in and around the vehicle. They can be a particularly good option if you simply want to shoot some home movies while rolling down the highway.

How is the dash cam powered?

The power source depends on the model you use. Some are hardwired to the vehicle, others tap into 12-volt ports, and even those run on battery power. Each type has a unique list of pros and cons and which is best ultimately comes down to user preference. 

Is it a dash cam record all the time?

A Best Dash cam typically begins recording once you turn your vehicle on with some room except for battery-powered models. There may be manual settings you can use as needed, but this feature usually works well for most motorists. 

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