Best high-resolution: Rove R2- 4K Dash CamBest high-capacity: BlackVue DR900X-2CH Best with extra safety features: Nextbase 622GW Full 4k HD in Car Dash CamBest large-screen: AUTO-VOX V5PROBest space-saving: Garmin 010-02062-00 Dash Cam MiniBest budget: Pathinglek 3-Inch Dash Cam

Things to consider when buying the best dash cams

There are so many types of dash cam products on the market that it can be hard to know where to begin. Like most recording devices, dash cams are available in a wide range of recording resolutions and media size compatibilities. Some models place extra emphasis on added safety features or screen functionality, but many with these extra features struggle to maintain an unobtrusive form factor. In this article, we’ll go over a few key considerations to help you find the best dash cam for your particular situation.

How high should the resolution be?

If the most obvious feature of a camera is its ability to capture and store video and images, the next logical consideration is determining the quality of the images. For dash cam imagery to be effective at documenting potential traffic events and other unexpected incidents, the resolution and subsequent level of detail that a model can deliver should be a clear sticking point. Most basic models run at a minimum resolution of 1080p and offer a wide-angle lens that can effectively capture events outside your car, and these specs are usually adequate in the vast majority of situations. Situations that might necessitate a higher image resolution include driving larger vehicles that sit higher above the road surface, thereby expanding the field of coverage required by a dash cam in order to effectively capture and translate on-video events. Rideshare drivers may also benefit from a higher resolution as an added degree of insurance due to the need to record both inside and outside the car. Some models are capable of capturing video at resolutions of up to 4K, which is optimal for working drivers in any situation where insurance and liability are key considerations. The high-level detail of the images provided by a 4k system can typically capture a great level of detail at longer distances, which can assist in contextualizing events and paint a clearer picture of driver accountability.

What type of screen is best?

Some dash cams are minimalist in design and sport simple functionality using onboard button controls, but the large majority of dash cams include a screen interface of some kind, varying widely in form and finish. A screen is one of the most accessible design features that can allow users to optimize their dash cam system, and it’s hard to recommend a model that doesn’t include one unless the exclusion is an intentional design feature. The most basic use of a dash cam screen is to assist users in proper setup and framing of the image in their camera’s view to ensure that the footage contains the desired area, but screens can also display a whole range of pertinent information, including recording time, GPS coordinates and safety assist features. Screen interfaces are also useful in granting users quick access to advanced settings and menu control without the need to click through a variety of arcane button combinations, which can no doubt come in handy if you’re trying to make a quick adjustment to your dash cam while you’re behind the wheel. Some models integrate rear backup camera compatibility, enabling you to install and view rear camera imagery while in reverse right from the dash cam screen. Even more impressively, these models usually exist in traditional rearview mirror form factor, allowing users to install them in place of their factory mirror and enjoy normal rearview functionality with the added bonus of backup and dash camera technology in an unassuming and subtle package. Every driver has their own tastes when it comes to using screens and adding them to their car, and fortunately, there are enough models of dash cam both with and without screens to satisfy the techie and the minimalist in all of us.

Are you short on space?

Sometimes, there’s just not enough space on your dashboard to warrant adding more car accessories. Whether you drive a smaller car, have a car with a short windshield, or you use a phone holder and can’t spare the extra space, there are plenty of reasons why a bulky dash cam will serve to harm more than help in certain situations. Fortunately, smaller form factor dash cams are available from a variety of manufacturers, and they’re designed to offer maximum functionality and convenience while keeping these situations in mind. In addition to saving on space, it’s important to consider whether a dash cam is large or eye-catching enough to warrant its removal from your car each time you park. Some models are big enough that they may be targeted for theft and end up resulting in situations where your car sustains unintended damage simply because there’s a high-tech device with a camera sitting on your dashboard. In situations like this, opting for a subtle design or a small and compact form that can easily hide out of view behind your rearview mirror is desirable.

Best high-resolution: Rove R2- 4K Dash Cam

The Rove R2 offers 4K video recording and a small screen-based interface with button controls and extended control via WiFi. This is an incredible value that packs a G-sensor, parking mode, slow-motion video, and a large f1.8 aperture, along with a full 150-degree field of view.

Best high-capacity: BlackVue DR900X-2CH with 256GB microSD Card

The BlackVue DR900X-2CH is a great option for capturing no-compromise 4K video at high capacities. It’s hardwired to your fuse panel to allow for uninterrupted operation as well as parking mode, and it’s even compatible with nano-SIM cards for LTE connectivity and cloud uploading so you can potentially expand your storage even further.

Best with extra safety features: Nextbase 622GW Full 4k HD in Car Dash Cam

The 622GW from Nextbase is a cut above the rest when it comes to safety thanks to the ability to detect accidents and alert emergency services if you become unresponsive. This car dash cam has Alexa built-in and records in 1440p resolution at 30 frames per second.

Best large-screen: AUTO-VOX V5PRO

The Auto-Vox V5PRO is a fantastic option for retrofitting older vehicles or installing in models with limited space. It fully replaces your existing rearview mirror with a reflective surface that doubles as a 9.5-inch screen, and it offers front and rear recording and parking monitoring. This is a dash cam, rearview mirror, and backup camera all in one.

Best space-saving: Garmin Dash Cam Mini

If you’re thinking small, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini is a robust option with your name on it. The incredibly compact unit attaches to your windshield and records 1080p footage at a 140-degree angle straight to a micro SD card. Controls and footage review are available over WiFi via the proprietary app.

Best dash cam brands to know

Dash cam manufacturers tend to focus on the needs of specific market segments, with some excelling in hardwired, integrated systems and others emphasizing safety features or ease of installation. Selecting a dash cam company with a focus that’s compatible with yours will be the ticket to finding a model that works for your specific needs.

Garmin

Garmin was founded in 1989 under the name ProNav by Gary Burrell and electrical engineer Min Kao to produce GPS devices and other related units. They supplied GPS technology to their first customer, the U.S. Army, in 1991, and since their founding, they have expanded to produce GPS technology for a whole host of industries including automotive, aviation, and marine.

Auto-Vox

Auto-Vox is a brand of Shenzhen Auto-Vox Technology Co., Ltd, based in China. Established in 2007 and specializing in automotive camera tech, the company became a supplier for Best Buy in 2015 and provided custom wireless camera technology for General Motors in 2016. They focus primarily on a large range of automotive screen and camera products.

Nextbase

Nextbase UK was founded in Surrey in 1999 and initially specialized in manufacturing portable entertainment systems, including DVD players for automotive applications. Nextbase is now a major manufacturer of dashboard cameras, offering designs that include quick mount and release, and pioneering deals with insurance companies to assist customers in acquiring insurance rate discounts in the presence of a dash cam.

Best budget dash cam: What you get for under $50

Dashboard cameras under $50 lack some of the quality ones might expect from more expensive products, which could be an issue if resolution and picture clarity is a priority. Still, it’s better to have a dash cam than to have none at all, so if you’re willing to sacrifice a bit on the flexibility of your device, something like the Pathinglek 3-Inch Dash Cam might do the trick. Be aware that at these prices, reliability and user-friendliness are not always guaranteed even in the best budget dash cams.

The bottom line on shopping for the best dash cams for your car

Regardless of your style of driving or specific situation, there are more reasons to drive with a dash camera than there are to go without. They offer an added level of safety and liability protection that is extended even further when considering options that integrate cloud recording, app support, and backup camera compatibility. If you want to get the most out of your car, a dashboard camera is one of the most affordable and convenient car accessories to mitigate many of the potential unknowns of getting behind the wheel.