What to Look for in a Car Dashboard Camera

In today’s fast-paced world, having a dash cam in your car is becoming increasingly commonplace. These compact devices can be a lifesaver in case of incidents and provide peace of mind while on the road. In this guide, we will explore key aspects to consider when choosing a dash cam for your vehicle. From understanding what constitutes good image quality to assessing bonus features like GPS and wireless connectivity, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also find out about different dash cam variations, price expectations, and advice on what to do after making a purchase. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to the road, this article will help you make an informed decision on the right dash cam for you.

What Is a Dash Cam?

A dash cam, short for dashboard camera, is a small recording device mounted on your vehicle’s dashboard or windshield. Its primary purpose is to record video footage as you drive, capturing everything happening on the road from your perspective. Dash cams offer a layer of security and can be essential documentation in the event of accidents or disputes.

Typically, dash cams are easy to install and can automatically start recording when the vehicle starts. They are becoming increasingly popular among car owners due to their ability to provide indisputable evidence of proceedings on the road, which can greatly assist in insurance claims and legal situations.

9 Things To Consider When Buying a Dash Cam

Image Quality

The clarity and detail of the recordings are of utmost importance when choosing a dash cam. High-quality footage can be crucial, especially for identifying license plates and road signs. Image quality is influenced by several factors, including resolution, field of view, frame rates, and night vision capabilities.

Resolution

The resolution of a dash cam affects the crispness of the footage. Common resolutions range from 720p to 4K. While 1080p is standard and sufficient for most users, opting for higher resolution like 4K can provide sharper images but might require more storage space.

Field of View

The field of view determines the width of the area the camera can capture. A wider field of view ensures more is captured in each frame. However, excessive width might lead to distortion and reduced detail in the images.

Frame Rates

Measured in frames per second (fps), the frame rate affects how smooth the video playback appears. Standard dash cams record at 30fps, which suits most driving needs, but some offer higher frame rates for even smoother video.

Night Vision

Driving doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. A dash cam with good night vision is crucial for capturing clear footage during low-light conditions. Look for features like Infrared LED lights or HDR to enhance nighttime recording quality.

Battery

The power source of a dash cam can impact its functionality and reliability. Most use a built-in battery or rely on capacitors. Batteries may offer longer life and are ideal for when the engine is off. However, they can be less durable in extreme temperatures.

Capacitors, on the other hand, are less prone to temperature-related issues, provide a quicker power charge cycle, and are considered more reliable for long-term usage. Consider your climate and how you plan to use the dash cam to choose the best power source.

Storage and Footage Protection

Dash cams store video data on memory cards, usually microSD cards. It’s essential to choose a model that supports high-capacity storage to handle longer recordings, especially if you opt for higher resolution video settings.

Look for a dash cam with loop recording features, which overwrite the oldest footage when the card is full. Models with built-in sensors can protect crucial footage after an incident, preventing it from being overwritten.

Suction or Adhesive Mounting?

The mounting mechanism of a dash cam affects its stability and ease of installation. Suction mounts are versatile and allow for easy repositioning or transferring between vehicles, but they might lose suction over time.

Adhesive mounts provide a more permanent and stable solution, suitable for continual use in one vehicle. Choosing a mount type depends on your preference for flexibility versus stability.

Wireless Connectivity

Many modern dash cams offer wireless connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. These allow for easy transfer of recordings to your smartphone or computer without needing to remove the memory card.

Dash cams connected to smartphone apps enable live streaming, instant access to footage, and easy configuration of camera settings. This feature can be a major convenience for tech-savvy users.

GPS

GPS functionality in a dash cam tracks your vehicle’s location and speed, providing context to your video recordings. This information can be invaluable when analyzing events leading to an incident.

Not every dash cam comes with built-in GPS, so if this data is important for your needs, ensure you choose a model that offers this feature.

Built-In Display

Dash cams with built-in displays allow you to view the footage on the device itself, providing immediate playback options without external devices. Sizes and resolutions of these displays can vary significantly.

Consider the display size and ease of use, especially in terms of navigating menus and settings, if you find having a built-in screen valuable for on-the-go playback.

Bonus Features

Audio Recording

Some dash cams provide audio recording capabilities, capturing conversations inside the vehicle, which might serve as additional evidence in disputes. Check state regulations on recording conversations as they can vary.

Driver Monitoring

Advanced dash cams include features like driver monitoring, using sensors to detect driver fatigue and alertness. These add a layer of safety by providing warnings or taking action if the driver appears distracted.

Auto-Start

An auto-start feature ensures that the dash cam begins recording automatically when the vehicle powers on, ensuring you don’t miss important footage. This is standard in many models, offering convenience and reliability.

Loop Recording

Loop recording is an essential feature that allows the dash cam to continue recording even when the storage medium is full. It systematically overwrites old footage, ensuring constant recording without requiring manual intervention.

Dash Cam Variations

Dash cams are available in various designs, including front-only, front and rear, and 360-degree models. A front-only dash cam records directly in front of you, ideal for capturing incidents from one angle.

Front and rear dash cams add an additional unit for the back window, giving more comprehensive coverage of events. 360-degree models provide an all-around view, capturing activity from every direction, ideal for comprehensive surveillance.

How Much Does a Dash Cam Cost?

The cost of a dash cam varies widely depending on features and quality. Basic models start around $50 while mid-range options can cost between $100 and $200, offering a balance of quality and advanced features.

High-end dash cams with premium features such as high-resolution cameras, GPS, and advanced driver-assistance systems can cost upwards of $300. Consider features essential to you and determine a budget based on those needs.

Who Should Buy a Dash Cam?

Dash cams are suitable for any vehicle owner looking to enhance their security and evidence on the road. They are particularly valuable for those who frequently drive in congested areas or have lengthy commutes.

Professional drivers, such as truck drivers, taxis, and rideshare operators, may find dash cams crucial for documentation and security. Families may also find dash cams beneficial for monitoring young drivers or shared family vehicles.

What Should I Do After I Buy a Dash Cam?

Once you have purchased your dash cam, proper installation is the first step. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. Ensure all wires are neatly tucked away and the camera is not obstructing your field of view.

Regularly check and manage the stored footage, clear unnecessary data if not using loop recording, and familiarize yourself with the camera’s features. Update firmware if supported, to maintain functionalities and fix potential issues.

More Tips

Always prioritize safety and legality when using a dash cam. Ensure your camera setup complies with local laws and doesn’t obstruct your driving vision. Regular maintenance such as cleaning the camera lens can enhance recording quality.

Back up important footage regularly to avoid losing crucial data. Familiarize yourself with the features and settings of your dash cam to utilize its full potential, enhancing your driving experience and safety.

FAQ

Q: Can dash cams withstand extreme weather conditions?


A: Many dash cams are designed to withstand a range of temperatures. Look for models with capacitors instead of batteries if extreme temperatures are a concern.

Q: Do dash cams work without the car running?


A: Some dash cams can operate with the vehicle off, usually when equipped with a parking mode feature, but this may depend on the power source and model specifications.

Q: Is installing a dash cam easy?


A: Most dash cams are designed for easy installation with basic mounting options and simple wiring requirements. Always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Final Thoughts

Feature	Considerations
Image Quality	Resolution, Field of View, Frame Rates, Night Vision
Battery	Battery vs. Capacitor for stability and climate considerations
Storage	Capacity, Protection, and Loop Recording
Mounting	Suction versus Adhesive based on flexibility and stability
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth for transferring and configuring
GPS	Location and speed tracking
Display	Built-In for convenience of playback
Bonus Features	Audio Recording, Driver Monitoring, Auto-start, Loop Recording
Variations	Front-only, Front and Rear, 360-degree