How to Choose the Right Car Dashboard Camera for Your Vehicle

Your Guide to buying the best Car dashboard cameras

Overview

A car dashboard camera is an invaluable tool for any driver, providing an extra layer of protection on the road. A dashboard camera can record your journeys to provide evidence in the event of an accident, and also captures any unexpected events along the way. In this guide, we will go over the essentials of what to look for when buying a car dashboard camera, including the features and specs you should consider, and the available options in the market. We will also offer advice on installation and maintenance, as well as tips on how to get the most out of your car dashboard camera.

Key features

  1. Image Quality – The image quality of a car dashboard camera should be considered when buying one. The higher the resolution, the better the quality of the image recordings.
  2. Night Vision & Low Light Performance - Car dashboard cameras should have a good night vision and low light performance to capture a clear image even in dark environments.
  3. Size & Weight - Dashboard cameras come in a variety of sizes and weights. Larger ones may provide better image quality but are more difficult to install. Smaller ones may be easier to install but may have lower image quality.
  4. Viewing Angle – The angle of view is important when purchasing a dashboard camera. The wider the angle, the more of the surroundings you can see.
  5. Battery & Storage Capacity – Car dashboard cameras typically have an internal battery and storage capacity. The battery should be able to support the camera for a reasonable amount of time and the storage capacity should be able to store the recordings for a reasonable amount of time.
  6. Ease of Installation & Use – The car dashboard camera should be easy to install and use. It should be easy to mount the camera, connect it to the car’s power system, and operate the camera.
  7. Price - Price is an important consideration when buying a car dashboard camera. Some may be more expensive but offer better image quality and other features.

See the most popular Car dashboard cameras on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Convenience and Mobility - Dashboard cameras come with a suction mount and a cord that allows you to easily move the camera from one car to another, or even take them with you on trips.
  • Protection - Dashboard cameras can provide evidence if you are ever in a car accident or have a dispute with another driver. It can also be used as a theft deterrent.
  • Video Quality - Dashboard cameras are capable of recording high-resolution video with clear audio, allowing you to easily identify the details of any incident.
  • Easy Installation - Most dashboard cameras are designed to be self-installed. They come with a suction mount and simple instructions, so you can set them up in minutes.
  • Low Cost - Dashboard cameras are relatively inexpensive compared to other types of security cameras, so they are a great option for those on a budget.

Cons

  • Cost: Dashboard cameras can be expensive, depending on the features you need or want.
  • Lack of Privacy: Dashboard cameras record footage of the inside of the car and of the road. This can be a privacy concern for the driver and passengers.
  • Storage Capacity: Some cameras have limited storage capacity which can be a problem if you need to keep footage for a longer period of time.
  • Battery Life: Dashboard cameras typically run on battery power, which means the battery will need to be charged regularly to ensure the camera is functioning at all times.

Best alternatives

  1. Dashboard Camera Mounts - A mount helps you securely attach your camera to your windshield and keep it in place.
  2. Battery Backup Cameras - These cameras are designed to provide extra protection in case of a power outage or other emergency.
  3. GPS Dashboard Cameras - These cameras allow you to track your location and view a replay of your route afterwards.
  4. Night Vision Dashboard Cameras - These cameras are designed for low-light conditions and are ideal for night drivers.
  5. Dual Dashboard Cameras - These cameras allow you to record front and rear views simultaneously.
  6. Parking Mode Dashboard Cameras - These cameras are designed to detect motion and automatically start recording when it senses movement.
  7. 4K Dashboard Cameras - These cameras can record up to 4K resolution videos, making them the best choice for capturing detailed footage.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • SD Card - Memory card used to store video recordings.
  • Cable - Required to connect the camera to an external power source.
  • Mounting Bracket - Device used to attach the dash camera to the windshield.
  • GPS Logger - Option to track location and speed information.
  • Night Vision - Enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

Common questions

  1. What features should I consider when purchasing a car dashboard camera? Look for features such as a wide angle lens, motion detection, night vision, and parking mode. Make sure to also consider the size, shape and design of the camera, as well as the video resolution and recording length.
  2. What type of memory card is used in a car dashboard camera? Most car dashboard cameras use microSD cards with a minimum capacity of 8GB and a maximum capacity of 32GB.
  3. How are car dashboard cameras powered? Most car dashboard cameras are powered by a 12V socket in the car, but some models may require a dedicated battery or a hardwired connection to the car battery.
  4. Do I need to install the car dashboard camera myself? Many car dashboard cameras come with mounting brackets and other tools to easily install the camera. However, it is always best to have the camera professionally installed for optimal performance.
  5. How long do car dashboard cameras record? The recording length of a car dashboard camera can vary from model to model, but they usually record for 30 minutes to 1 hour before looping over the footage.
  6. Are car dashboard cameras water-resistant? Most car dashboard cameras are designed to be water-resistant, however, it is best to check the specifications for the individual model to ensure it is waterproof.

Trivia

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis, has revealed an unexpected use for car dashboard cameras - they can detect potholes! The cameras are equipped with an algorithm that detects changes in the road surface, enabling drivers to be warned of any potentially hazardous potholes ahead. The study found that the cameras were accurate in detecting potholes more than 80% of the time, which could help drivers avoid costly repairs and other damage. This could be a great asset for drivers who don't want to be caught off guard by a surprise pothole. Source: University of California, Davis

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.