Selecting the most suitable dash cam for capturing video footage in your vehicle can be challenging. Nonetheless, the top dash cam for ensuring safety, security, or simply recording interesting events on the road will consistently feature a few essential characteristics. Here are some tips on how to pick the right one among many good options.
First, consider your budget: Dash cams can range from tens to hundreds of dollars, so it’s wise to start with a general idea of how much your purpose for having one is worth. If you aim to document proof of an accident you are involved in, that is likely worth a significant investment. However, if you merely want to catch an occasional funny moment for YouTube, spending less than $100 could suffice.
Next, understand that all dash cams serve the same fundamental function that makes them stand out from regular digital cameras: They continuously record live video while you drive, operating in a loop, the duration of which depends on the storage capacity of the device. Any additional features beyond this are often optional and can be unnecessary.
Basic Tips for Dash Cams
Invest in a large SD card.
The larger the card, the more extended the loop of recorded video from which you can extract a clip to save. Memory cards are inexpensive, so purchase the biggest one compatible with your camera. The amount of video that a specific card size can accommodate depends on the specifications of the camera, as each uses different video resolutions and file compression techniques. It’s not feasible to determine that a certain GB size will hold a specific number of hours of video across all dash cams. While some dash cams include a memory card, it’s often a small one, so plan to buy your own. I recommend steering clear of dash cams that lack the ability to insert your own card for reasons related to capacity and convenience.
Seek stable 4K recording.
4K resolution might appear excessive in a compact device, but it enables you to zoom in on details in a video and read small text, such as license plate numbers, more effectively. Clips from a lower-quality 1080p HD camera could become unusable when zoomed. Extra points go to a dash cam that offers both 4K recording and image stabilization.
Decide on the angles you prefer.
All dash cams capture the forward view, but if you’re a rideshare driver, you might also need a view of the passengers in the vehicle with you (but refer to my comments on audio recording below). If you’re primarily concerned about having evidence if you get rear-ended, consider a cam that has an additional rear lens to record what’s behind your vehicle. Some models, like the Vantrue N4, allow you to capture footage from all three angles.
Be aware that dash cams can have upsides and downsides.
Having a noticeable dash camera during an accident can signal that you have evidence. The other driver might inform their insurance about it, and attorneys could demand access to your recordings. This could have negative implications if you happen to be at fault, so avoid the temptation to destroy recorded evidence that is known or may be discoverable. This consideration supports opting for the smallest, least conspicuous dash cam, such as the Garmin Mini2.
Consider audio functionality.
When searching for the ideal dash cam, think about whether it includes audio recording, but more importantly, ensure you can disable it. Certain states enforce two-party consent laws that may be violated if you use a cam to capture the conversations of casual carpoolers, Uber and Lyft passengers, or friends and family in your vehicle without their knowledge. Additionally, spontaneous comments made during an accident, like “Oh no, I didn’t even see him,” could be damaging in a legal case if captured on video. Personally, I recommend disabling the microphones on dash cams, although those interested in documenting encounters with law enforcement may feel differently.
Dash cams are increasingly dependent on smartphones.
While this isn’t a trend I appreciate, many dash cams now use apps instead of having integrated displays. You probably know how cumbersome it can be to reconnect with devices that communicate with your smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, so keep that in mind when evaluating a dash cam without its own screen. Conversely, some of the newer phone-dependent dash cams utilize that connection to upload clips to the cloud via your phone, which is advantageous… provided you monitor how much data from your plan it consumes.
Examine the mount closely.
While all dash cams include a windshield mount, they differ significantly in adhesive type, size, and sometimes, the essential technology integrated into the mount, such as a GPS antenna. These variables affect how easily the camera can be moved between vehicles, whether it will be bulky, or if it might obstruct your view and potentially violate local regulations regarding dash cam mounting.
Don’t be fooled by unnecessary features.
The primary purpose of a dash cam is to capture video. Many cameras attempt to stand out in a saturated market by offering functionalities like AI driver assistance notifications, cloud storage, voice commands, and supercapacitor power systems. None of these features are crucial for obtaining a top-quality dash cam. Conversely, innovations like AI fog clearance or glare-reducing polarizers in the lens, which are present in the models I suggest, contribute positively to the main function of recording high-quality video.
Neatly arrange the cable.
Every dash cam requires a power cable, and nothing is more unsightly than having it dangle messily to your 12V outlet in the dashboard. Moreover, this may indicate to potential thieves that you possess something valuable in your vehicle. Take the effort to tuck the cable into the nooks and crannies of your vehicle’s interior trim as it routes down to the dash. Many cameras include a simple plastic “butter knife” for this task; if not, you can use a real butter knife.
What is the process to install a dash cam?
The best dash cams are designed for straightforward installation. In fact, setup often involves simply identifying an appropriate spot on your car’s windshield or dashboard, securing the camera with the suction cup or adhesive mount included in the package, and connecting the camera to the 12-volt power source—common referred to as the cigarette lighter in older cars. It is important to pay attention to how you secure and route the power cable to ensure it does not interfere while driving. Additionally, if a microSD card is required and isn’t pre-installed, you may need to insert one into the camera.
More complicated multi-camera systems might necessitate the installation of a secondary rear-facing camera. Sometimes, this is as easy as attaching another camera to the rear window and running a cable. Other kits may require you to mount the second camera to the license plate using screws and routing the cable through the trunk and into the car’s interior. Some multi-camera setups can be even more intricate. If you’re unsure about the installation, it may be best to seek help from a professional installer.
For dash cams that can record while your car is parked—or if you prefer a cleaner installation that doesn’t obstruct the 12-volt outlet—you might want to consider hardwiring the device directly to your car’s battery. Generally, you can find an appropriate fused connection within your vehicle’s fuse box. If you are not familiar with car electronic installations, a professional installer should be able to assist.
Are dash cams a worthwhile investment?
Yes and no. The ideal situation is that you purchase the best dash cam, drive for years incident-free, and never have to review or even think about the footage. Technically, this means you acquired a product that you didn’t require.
However, a dash cam can be invaluable in unforeseen circumstances. After a minor accident, having video or GPS evidence to demonstrate your innocence can save you substantial amounts on repairs, insurance costs, and legal fees. In this respect, an affordable dash cam is definitely a worthy investment.
It’s best to regard these devices similarly to how we view insurance or fire extinguishers—having one on hand even if you don’t need it is preferable to the opposite scenario.
Are dash cams prohibited?
Similar to many alterations you make to your vehicle, the answer varies based on the regulations in your area at any given time. There are no states known to outright ban the installation of a camera in your car. Generally, dash cams are not illegal. However, there are specific considerations to keep in mind when selecting the best dash cam for your specific situation and intentions.
For instance, many states have laws preventing the mounting of devices or obstructive items on the windshield. In those areas, you might opt for a dashboard mount, a camera that can be positioned over the rearview mirror, or another low-profile installation method. Some states impose restrictions on where on the windshield you can place gadgets, so you might need to position your camera in a corner rather than in the center to avoid fines.
Certain states’ distracted driving legislation restricts dash cams that have screens that are always on, so you should consider a model with an option to disable the display while driving or one without a display entirely. Even if you’re not concerned about law enforcement, it’s wise to avoid having another glowing screen in your line of sight while driving, particularly at night.
Ultimately, it’s essential to take into account your state’s laws regarding privacy and surveillance. Typically, these laws do not pertain to recording your surroundings while driving; however, ride-hailing drivers who pick up passengers, vehicle owners who lend their cars to others, or those who set up a camera that records continuously while they are away should review local regulations to ensure they remain compliant.
As previously mentioned, this is particularly crucial for cameras that capture audio, as these could conflict with two-party consent laws regarding audio recording.
Roadways can be perilous (there are millions of car accidents each year), and safe driving cannot account for other motorists, unnecessary traffic stops, or potential insurance fraud schemes. For these reasons and others, having a dash cam as an additional set of eyes on the road can be beneficial.
There are numerous elements to evaluate when selecting car dash cams, though not all may be essential depending on your specific needs. If you are uncertain about what features you require, consider starting with a more affordable dash cam. Testing a budget-friendly model for a few weeks or months might clarify what you want from your dash cam, aiding you in narrowing down the appropriate price range.
What Is the Cost of a Dash Cam?
Depending on the model and available features, a car dash cam can range in price from $30 to over $500. Generally, an average dash cam with sufficient features tends to retail for approximately $100 to $400. The amount you must invest ultimately depends on your expectations for the dash cam and your available budget.
Image Quality
Dash cams may come equipped with various features, but one of the most critical aspects to consider is the camera’s overall quality. Cameras of higher quality produce clearer images, which can be advantageous when discerning details after an accident or other events.
Here are some important specifications regarding camera image quality to keep in mind:
Resolution
The first aspect you’ll likely notice when purchasing any camera is its resolution.
The resolution of the camera is measured by the number of vertical pixels in an image. A camera with 1080p has 1,080 vertical pixels, while a 1440p camera features 1,440 vertical pixels. A 2160p camera has 2,160 vertical pixels.
In general, a higher pixel count is always preferable. We recommend choosing a camera with at least 1080p resolution, but if your budget allows, opting for a higher resolution (i.e., 4K) is advisable.
Field of View
The field of view of a camera indicates how wide of an area the camera can capture, which can differ significantly. Cameras with a broader field of view enable users to see much more at any given moment. However, there are trade-offs to consider; a camera with an excessively wide field of view may negatively impact image quality due to pixel dispersion.
Unfortunately, dash cam manufacturers often do not provide clear information regarding field of view. Furthermore, no standard measurement exists, as some manufacturers list horizontal measurements while others exaggerate by offering diagonal measurements.
We suggest looking for sample footage from the camera prior to making a purchase, paying close attention to details at the edges and how clear the image is. If you believe the camera can capture everything you need, it should perform adequately.
Frame Rates
Since dash cams record video, frame rates are an important factor. Typically, most dash cams operate at a standard frame rate of 30 frames per second (fps), which is sufficient for most users.
Some dash cams, however, offer a frame rate of 60fps, resulting in much smoother video capture. While this feature is excellent for sports capture, we do not think it is essential for dash cams. Moreover, footage recorded at 60fps consumes twice as much storage space, meaning you will acquire half as much footage before having to either overwrite old files or purchase additional storage cards.
If the dash cam of your choice provides 60fps recording, it could be a nice additional feature, especially if you have the option to toggle it on and off. However, we do not advise allocating extra funds for this capability, as it typically does not enhance the experience in most cases and may be detrimental due to the increased storage usage.
Night Vision
Another aspect to consider is night vision, or low light vision, which can be very beneficial for certain drivers—particularly those who frequently drive at night. After all, if it’s too dark, your camera might not function properly due to insufficient light for it to capture images. This indicates that night vision may be crucial in establishing your innocence in the event of an accident.
Night vision guarantees that even in poorly lit conditions, your footage retains enough detail to discern what’s happening. The visuals may lack the vibrancy seen during daylight, but that is hardly a concern when all you need is to see the license plate of the driver who collided with you.
Battery
Most dash cameras operate using your vehicle’s power supply, meaning they activate when you start your car and shut off when you turn it off. Nonetheless, some dash cams come with a built-in battery, allowing you to use the dash cam even when your vehicle is not running.
For many, this feature is unnecessary. However, some individuals might prefer a dash cam that continues to record after their vehicle is parked in a public area.
Unfortunately, most dash cams are limited by short battery life. An alternative is using an action camera like a GoPro as a dash cam. GoPros have batteries designed for longer duration. However, this comes with the limitation of having to record manually and lacking features like a G-Sensor.
Storage and Footage Protection
Video files can consume considerable amounts of storage space, so it’s essential to choose a dash cam that provides sufficient storage capacity.
Some dash cams include internal storage, eliminating the need for managing external storage if that’s not preferable. Storage for dash cams typically starts at around 4GB, but you might want more if you plan to store several days of footage.
However, many dash cams are equipped with an SD card slot for inserting a MicroSD card to save your recordings. Some models include a MicroSD card, while others require a separate purchase. When selecting one, it’s crucial to verify the storage capacity that your dash cam can support. It is advisable to get a MicroSD card with at least 64GB of capacity to ensure ample recording time.
Sometimes, the need for recorded footage becomes apparent only after the incident has occurred. Since numerous dash cams overwrite old footage in a loop, that recording might be lost when you need it. Fortunately, many dash cams include mechanisms to prevent overwriting essential footage.
The G-Sensor is the most commonly used method to safeguard against footage being overwritten; it detects sudden changes in motion and instructs the dash cam to retain footage from that event. For many models, footage of this nature is secured and will not be erased, which can be advantageous when you require access later.
Naturally, it is unwise to depend solely on the G-Sensor. In the event of a severe accident causing damage to the memory card within the dash cam, you could find yourself in a challenging situation, although substantial damage to the memory card is uncommon.
Suction or Adhesive Mounting?
Upon acquiring your dash cam, you’ll need to affix it in your vehicle somehow, and various mounting options are available. Depending on the model, dash cams can be positioned on the dashboard or windshield. This arrangement is helpful if you prefer to keep your dashboard uncluttered or if you already have a phone holder in place.
Generally, dash cams are secured to the dashboard or windshield using a suction mount, which are quite robust. Some models employ adhesive for attachment, which can be somewhat more complicated since they are harder to remove and reposition, and they might leave residual adhesive when detached. Nonetheless, adhesive mounts offer the advantage of typically requiring less space. Therefore, if space is limited for mounting your dash cam, opting for an adhesive mount could be the superior choice.
Wireless Connectivity
In today’s world of smart devices, it’s logical to have dash cams that can connect to the internet or your phone using Bluetooth.
There are numerous benefits to having wireless connectivity on your dash cam. For example, if your camera connects to your phone via Bluetooth, you might be able to manage footage, adjust the camera’s settings, and more. This way, you won’t have to fuss with a tiny built-in screen on your device or navigate poorly designed menus.
Having internet connectivity can introduce a variety of additional features to your dash cam. For instance, you could directly upload footage captured by your dash cam to the cloud and stream it to a phone or computer.
Some dash cams also use Wi-Fi to communicate with your phone, offering similar advantages as Bluetooth connectivity. You can download and view footage from your phone while connected through Wi-Fi.
So, what do we suggest? Bluetooth connectivity will suffice for most users seeking added features and connectivity options. If you’re comfortable handling settings directly on the dash cam and managing file storage, you might not need any supplementary connectivity.
GPS
Similar to Bluetooth connectivity, GPS can enhance the features and capabilities of your dash cam, even though it might not be a necessary feature for most users.
With GPS connectivity, you can log your vehicle’s speed and location alongside the footage, which could be useful in resolving disputes.
Moreover, GPS functionality isn’t just advantageous for personal use; it’s also beneficial if you’re purchasing a dash cam for a company or work vehicle that may be driven by different individuals. With built-in GPS, you can track the vehicle and monitor driver behavior, which aids in managing employees and addressing any accidents that may occur.
While GPS may not be crucial for most users, it could be valuable for others. If you’re interested in tracking your vehicle or recording location and speed data, look for a dash cam that includes GPS.
Built-In Display
Some dash cams connect to your phone for accessing settings, while others feature a built-in display. With this display, you can review footage, adjust settings, and more.
In general, larger displays facilitate easier viewing of details in footage and navigation through menus, but don’t expect a smartphone-quality screen on your dash cam. These screens typically range from two to three inches, so if you prefer a larger display, seek out options around the three-inch size. They are usually bright enough LCDs to be visible during daylight, making it easier for those who need to modify settings.
Bonus Features
Certain dash cams include additional features that may not be as critical as image quality or GPS functionality but can still be beneficial. In some cases, these features might even be essential based on your specific requirements for a dash camera.
Audio Recording
While video is the most critical component to capture, some may also wish to document audio. It can be helpful in recording conversations during traffic stops, sounds in and around the vehicle, etc. Generally, adding audio recording doesn’t significantly increase the cost of a dash cam, which is a positive aspect.
Driver Monitoring
Not all dash cams possess a single camera; some are equipped with two. While most users likely only need to record what occurs outside the vehicle, others—such as Uber and Lyft drivers—might want to capture the interior as well. To accommodate this, some dash cams include one camera sensor facing the windshield and another inside the vehicle.
However, this type has a few drawbacks, though it could be advantageous for some. First, having double the footage means you’ll require double the storage space. If you choose a dash cam with driver monitoring, it’s wise to obtain an SD card with more storage than you anticipate needing.
The other downside to driver monitoring is the price. Incorporating an additional camera sensor into the device increases the overall cost of the dash cam, especially if you’re looking for relatively high-quality sensors.
Auto-Start
A dash cam that automatically begins recording when you’re driving can be beneficial.
With auto-start, the camera will automatically start recording when you turn on your car and the camera powers up. Then, it will shut off by itself when the vehicle is turned off.
For those who remember to manually start and stop recording, this is simply a matter of convenience. However, for those who might forget to activate their camera, it could be crucial for capturing an accident.
Loop Recording
Loop recording guarantees that the dash cam will continue to capture footage even when the storage card fills up. How does this work? Essentially, it does so by overwriting older footage. Once the storage card is full, new recordings will cover older ones. Therefore, you’ll need to retrieve footage from an accident promptly or invest in a larger memory card that can store plenty of footage before it starts erasing anything.
It’s a convenient feature that eliminates the hassle of managing the storage of your dash cam, which can be frustrating.
Dash Cam Variations
There are three main types of dash cams available for your vehicle: Basic, Advanced, and Dual-Camera.
Basic dash cams effectively capture video of the road ahead and are the most cost-effective and easiest type to install. They tend to have a more limited range of features, typically providing a simple loop-recording function and usually having less storage capacity compared to more advanced models.
Advanced dash cams are pricier than basic versions but provide additional functionality. These dash cams come with features beyond the basic models—like GPS, the ability to record audio, accelerometers to detect sudden braking or impacts, and speed sensors. They offer increased protection and deliver better data for future reference than cheaper alternatives. Some even have uninterruptible power supplies that continue recording even when the car is off or if there’s a power interruption for any other reason.
Dual-camera dash cams (also known as Interior/Exterior dash cams) generally build upon the features found in advanced models but include two cameras instead of one. This allows one camera to monitor the road and the other to capture the vehicle’s interior. An extra camera angle can be advantageous in case of an accident and can also aid in addressing theft. Furthermore, some dual-camera dash cams provide driver monitoring features to evaluate the driver’s condition and issue alerts if they seem to be drowsy or otherwise impaired.
Who Should Buy a Dash Cam?
A dash cam can be beneficial for nearly anyone who drives, especially in certain situations, but it’s not mandatory for everyone. However, if you operate a car or truck and believe a dash cam could be useful (or if you simply think it would be cool), and you’re able to afford one, it can be a good idea to purchase it.
Dash cams can be especially advantageous if you plan to work as a rideshare driver or have safety concerns while driving. Likewise, while a dash cam won’t prevent the theft or damage of a parked vehicle, having footage can be helpful afterward.
What Should I Do After I Buy a Dash Cam?
After purchasing a dash cam, the first step is to install it. Determine the most effective location for it within your vehicle, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct your view while driving. Then, get acquainted with its features and functions, decide on your initial settings, and adjust them as needed after using it for a bit.
Although you might be eager to try out your new dash cam, remember that its primary purpose is for your safety and security. You will likely review mostly routine travel footage after a few days or weeks, but it’s beneficial to become accustomed to accessing and reviewing your recordings.
More Tips
In summary, there’s more to consider when purchasing a new dash cam than you might have initially thought, but hopefully, now that you’ve learned about the various options, the buying process will be somewhat simpler.
If you’re feeling more confused than ever, here are a few suggestions. For those merely seeking a reliable dash cam to record their surroundings, we recommend a 1080p model with Wi-Fi capability, auto-start, and loop recording. You probably won’t need features like driver monitoring unless you’re also concerned about activities inside your vehicle. Regardless of what you’re searching for in a dash cam, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that meets your preferences and requirements.
