How to Choose the Right Dash Camera for Your Needs

Your Guide to buying the best Dash cameras

Overview

A dash camera, also known as a dashboard camera or vehicle camera, is a device that captures and records video footage while you drive. Dash cameras are becoming increasingly popular as a way to provide added security, protection, and evidence in the case of a road incident. This buying guide will provide an overview of what to look for in a dash camera, including features, size, compatibility, and more. You’ll also get tips on how to choose the best dash camera for your needs, and which ones are the top contenders in the market.

Key features

  1. Video Quality: Resolution, frame rate, field of view, and low light performance should all be taken into account when choosing a dash camera.
  2. Storage Capacity: Look for the maximum storage capacity of the camera as well as any additional storage options such as microSD cards.
  3. Connectivity: Determine if the dash camera has in-car connectivity, or if it requires a connection to a PC or mobile device via USB or Wi-Fi.
  4. Display: Identify whether the camera has a built-in display or if it relies on a smartphone or other device for viewing.
  5. Safety Features: Some dash cameras come with additional safety features such as lane departure warning, speed monitoring, and more.
  6. Mounting: Many dash cameras come with an adhesive mount, while others may require a more permanent installation.
  7. Size/Design: Consider the size and design of the camera when choosing a model as well as any additional accessories included.
  8. Cost: Determine your budget and compare models of similar features and performance to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

See the most popular Dash cameras on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Safety: Dash cameras help provide an extra layer of safety as they can serve as evidence in the event of an accident or to protect you from fraudulent insurance claims.
  • Convenience: Dash cameras are convenient as they are easy to install and can provide a continuous video recording of your journey.
  • Recording Quality: Many dash cameras record high-quality footage in both day and night, making it easier to identify details such as license plates, faces, and objects.
  • Data Storage: Many dash cameras are equipped with a data storage system, allowing for easy access to footage when needed.
  • Accident Detection: Some dash cameras are also equipped with accident detection technology that will automatically start recording in the event of a collision.

Cons

  • Price: Dash cameras can be expensive. Prices for good quality cameras range from around $50 to over $200.
  • Installation: Installing a dash camera can be difficult; some can be quite complicated, require professional installation, or take an hour or more to install.
  • Power source: Dash cameras require a power source, either an adapter plugged into a car’s 12-volt outlet or a battery. Both of these will need to be recharged or replaced from time to time.
  • Storage: Dash cameras require a memory card to store recorded videos. Memory cards can be expensive, and some may not be compatible with the camera, so you may have to purchase an additional one.
  • Blind spots: Dash cameras can have blind spots, meaning they may not be able to record everything that is happening in front of them. Some cameras have wide-angle lenses to help reduce this issue.
  • Heat: Dash cameras can generate a lot of heat when running for long periods of time, so they should be placed in a well-ventilated area. This can be an issue if you live in a hot climate.
  • Privacy: Dash cameras can record conversations and other activities inside a car, which may be an issue for some people.

Best alternatives

    Action Cameras - Action Cameras are more versatile and durable than traditional dash cameras, with the ability to be worn on the body or mounted almost anywhere. Smartphone Apps - Smartphone Apps such as dashcam apps allow users to use their phone as a dashcam. Rearview Cameras - Rearview Cameras are a good alternative to having a dash cam mounted in the car. They are typically easier to install and provide drivers with an extra view of the rear of the car. Parking Mode Cameras - Parking Mode Cameras are designed to monitor your car when it's parked, providing you with a peace of mind.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Dash Camera - A device that records and captures video/images for a variety of applications usually in a motor vehicle. Memory Card - A removable storage device used to save and store data taken from the dash camera. GPS Mount - A mount that attaches to the vehicle and allows for the dash camera to be installed in the preferred location. Power Cable - A cable that connects the dash camera to a power source. Data Cable - A cable that connects the dash camera to a computer to view and upload the data. Memory Card Reader - A device used to transfer data from the memory card to a computer. Hardwire Kit - A kit that is used to connect the dash camera to a power source. Screen Protector - A protective film that covers the dash camera monitor to minimize scratches and dust. Storage Case - A case that is used to transport the dash camera safely. Mounting Bracket - A bracket that is used to securely mount the dash camera to the vehicle.

Common questions

  1. What types of Dash Cameras are there?

    There are three main types of Dash Cameras: Single-Lens Dash Cameras, Multi-Lens Dash Cameras, and Dual-Lens Dash Cameras. Single-Lens Dash Cameras have one lens, Multi-Lens Dash Cameras have two lenses, and Dual-Lens Dash Cameras have two lenses but the second lens points in the opposite direction.

  2. What features should I look for in a Dash Camera?

    When looking for a Dash Camera, you should consider features such as video resolution, field of view, night vision, automatic start/stop, Wi-Fi connectivity, GPS, G-sensor, and a parking mode.

  3. How much storage space do Dash Cameras typically have?

    Most Dash Cameras come with a built-in memory card, ranging from 16GB to 64GB. Some Dash Cameras also offer the option of using an external memory card for additional storage.

  4. What is the difference between a Dash Camera and a Dashcam?

    The terms "Dash Camera" and "Dashcam" are often used interchangeably, but Dash Cameras typically refer to in-car recording systems that are made to be permanently installed in a vehicle, while Dashcams are usually removable devices that can be used to record video while driving.

  5. Do I need to mount my Dash Camera to my windshield?

    Most Dash Cameras come with a windshield mount that allows you to securely attach your Dash Camera to your windshield. While this is not necessary, it is recommended for optimal performance.

  6. What is a G-Sensor and why might I want one?

    G-sensors are specialized sensors that can detect sudden acceleration, deceleration, or impacts. G-sensors can be used to automatically detect and record incidents such as car accidents, providing useful evidence if needed.

Trivia

In 2018, a dashcam captured a meteorite crashing to Earth in southern Russia. The footage was captured by a driver in Chelyabinsk, about 1,500 kilometers from Moscow. The meteor is estimated to have been about 18 meters in diameter and weighed 10,000 tons. The explosion caused by the meteorite blew out the windows of 7,200 buildings in the region and injured 1,500 people. The dashcam footage was released by the Russian Academy of Sciences and has been widely shared on social media since. Source

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.