Top ten dashcams

Picking the right dashcam can feel like navigating a maze, but it’s genuinely one of the smartest investments you can make for your vehicle. When it comes to the top ten dashcams on the market today, you’re looking for a blend of reliability, video quality, ease of use, and advanced features. The best dashcams aren’t just about capturing footage. they’re about providing peace of mind, acting as an impartial witness in case of an accident, and even deterring theft. From basic front-facing models to sophisticated multi-channel systems, the options are vast. Many drivers in the US and globally are realizing the critical role these devices play in documenting road incidents, preventing insurance disputes, and simply enhancing their overall safety. Whether you’re searching for which are the best dashcams for everyday commuting or robust popular dash cameras for long-haul journeys, understanding the key features and types of dashcams is crucial. Forget the guesswork. let’s drill down into what truly matters and explore some of the leading contenders.

Here’s a comparison of seven top contenders that stand out:

• 👉 2025 Top-Rated Dashcam – Now 25% Off for a Limited Time

  • Key Features: 4K front camera, 1080p interior and rear cameras, voice control, Wi-Fi, GPS, G-sensor, parking monitor. The V55+ variant offers a waterproof rear camera.
  • Average Price: Around $250-$300 depending on configuration and current promotions.
  • Pros: Exceptional 4K video quality, comprehensive coverage with three channels, voice control for hands-free operation, reliable parking surveillance, easy file transfer via Wi-Fi.
  • Cons: Can be pricier than single-channel options, requires a large SD card for extended 4K recording, some users might find the initial setup slightly intricate.

• Viofo A129 Pro Duo

  Budget friendly dash cam

  • Key Features: 4K front camera, 1080p rear camera, dual-channel recording, Wi-Fi, GPS logger, parking mode with buffered recording, super capacitor.
  • Average Price: Around $200-$250.
  • Pros: Stellar 4K video quality, excellent night vision, reliable super capacitor for heat resistance, discreet design, strong community support and firmware updates.
  • Cons: No built-in screen for easy playback requires phone app, parking mode requires hardwire kit, audio quality can be inconsistent for some.

• BlackVue DR900X-2CH Plus

  • Key Features: 4K UHD front camera, Full HD rear camera, Cloud connectivity, built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, impact detection, parking mode, optional LTE module.
  • Average Price: Around $400-$500.
  • Pros: Top-tier video quality both day and night, seamless cloud integration for remote access, robust parking mode features, sleek and compact design.
  • Cons: High price point, cloud features require a separate subscription or hotspot, can be complex for first-time users.

• Garmin Dash Cam 67W

  • Key Features: 1440p resolution, extra-wide 180-degree field of view, voice control, GPS, automatic incident detection, parking guard, Travelapse feature.
  • Average Price: Around $180-$220.
  • Pros: Ultra-wide field of view captures more, compact size, user-friendly interface, reliable voice commands, advanced driver alerts, strong brand reputation.
  • Cons: Only single channel no rear camera option, 1440p not true 4K, battery life is limited without constant power.

• Nextbase 622GW

  • Key Features: 4K recording at 30fps, 140-degree viewing angle, image stabilization, Alexa built-in, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Emergency SOS, parking mode.
  • Average Price: Around $300-$350.
  • Pros: Superb 4K video quality with image stabilization, innovative Emergency SOS feature, Alexa voice assistant integration, modular design for rear camera add-ons.
  • Cons: Can run warm during extended use, battery life is not exceptional, rear camera modules sold separately, price.

• Thinkware U1000 Dash cam surveillance

  • Key Features: 4K front camera, 2K QHD rear camera, Super Night Vision 2.0, Cloud connectivity, parking surveillance modes energy saving, time lapse, motion detection, built-in GPS/Wi-Fi.
  • Average Price: Around $350-$450.
  • Pros: Excellent 4K video quality, advanced parking surveillance options, robust build quality, very good night vision, reliable cloud features.
  • Cons: Higher price point, hardwiring kit often required for full parking features, some users find the mobile app less intuitive than competitors.

• Cobra SC400D

  • Key Features: 4K UHD front camera, 1080p rear camera, iRadar app integration, built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, voice commands, emergency recording.
  • Average Price: Around $250-$300.
  • Pros: Good 4K video quality, useful iRadar alerts for speed traps/red light cameras, intuitive touchscreen, decent night vision, comprehensive features.
  • Cons: Can be bulky, iRadar features require a subscription for full benefits, rear camera is wired and can be tricky to route.

Unpacking the Essentials: What Makes a Dashcam Great?

When you’re looking to secure your ride with a dashcam, it’s not just about slapping any device onto your windshield.

The market is flooded with options, and knowing what truly distinguishes a top-tier dashcam from a mediocre one is key.

We’re talking about tangible benefits that provide real peace of mind and, potentially, critical evidence when you need it most.

Video Quality: The Unquestionable Foundation

Let’s be honest, if a dashcam can’t capture clear, discernible footage, what’s the point? Video quality is paramount. You need to be able to make out license plates, faces, and road signs, regardless of lighting conditions or speed. Front and rear vehicle cameras

• Resolution is King or Queen: While 1080p Full HD is still common, the standard for top performance is moving towards higher resolutions.
  • 1440p 2K: Offers a significant step up from 1080p, providing sharper details, especially useful for capturing license plates at a distance. Many popular dash cameras today offer this as a baseline.
  • 2160p 4K UHD: This is the gold standard for clarity. A 4K dashcam like the Rexing V55 or Viofo A129 Pro Duo provides exceptional detail, making it easier to zoom in on crucial elements in post-playback. While it consumes more storage, the clarity difference is undeniable.
• Frame Rate FPS: While resolution is about sharpness, frame rate is about smoothness.
  • 30 FPS: Standard for most dashcams, suitable for general recording.
  • 60 FPS: Offers smoother video, which can be critical for capturing fast-moving objects or impacts more clearly. Some 1080p cameras offer 60fps, providing excellent motion clarity.
• Low-Light Performance: This is where many dashcams falter. A truly great dashcam excels in challenging lighting conditions, from twilight to absolute darkness.
  • Advanced Sensors: Look for cameras equipped with Sony STARVIS sensors or similar technologies. These are designed to capture more light, producing clearer night footage with less noise.
  • WDR Wide Dynamic Range / HDR High Dynamic Range: These features help balance bright and dark areas in the same frame, preventing overexposure in sunny conditions and ensuring details aren’t lost in shadows. This is crucial for environments with sudden light changes, like entering or exiting tunnels.

Field of View: Seeing the Whole Picture

A wider field of view means your dashcam captures more of the road and its surroundings.

It’s not just about what’s directly in front of you.

• Optimal Range: Most high-quality dashcams offer a 140-degree to 170-degree field of view.
  • 140-150 degrees: This is often a good balance, capturing multiple lanes of traffic without significant fisheye distortion.
  • 170-180 degrees: While ultra-wide lenses like on the Garmin Dash Cam 67W capture nearly everything in your peripheral vision, they can introduce some barrel distortion at the edges. However, for capturing sudden swerves or incidents from the side, this can be invaluable.
• Coverage vs. Distortion: While a wider angle is generally better, too wide can distort the image, making distant objects appear smaller or less distinct. A balanced approach is key.

Types of Dashcams: Tailoring to Your Needs

Just as you wouldn’t use a hammer for every job, not every dashcam is suitable for every driver.

Understanding the different types of dashcams helps you select the best fit for your specific requirements.

Single-Channel Dashcams: The Essential Witness

These are the most common and often the most budget-friendly. They focus solely on recording what’s happening in front of your vehicle. The best dash cam with parking mode

• Primary Function: To capture forward-facing road events.
• Ideal User: Commuters, ride-share drivers who primarily need evidence of external incidents, or those seeking a simple, reliable recording solution.
• Pros: Simpler installation, less expensive, generally smaller and more discreet.
• Cons: No interior or rear coverage, leaving significant blind spots.
• Example: Many basic models or compact units like the Garmin Dash Cam 67W fall into this category.

Dual-Channel Dashcams: Comprehensive Front & Rear Protection

These systems typically include a main front camera and a separate rear camera that records out the back windshield.

• Primary Function: To capture incidents from both the front and rear of your vehicle.
• Ideal User: Anyone concerned about rear-end collisions, hit-and-runs in parking lots, or comprehensive coverage for everyday driving.
• Pros: Significantly enhanced protection, critical for documenting multi-vehicle accidents where the rear impact is involved.
• Cons: More complex installation routing cables to the rear, generally higher cost, requires more storage.
• Examples: The Viofo A129 Pro Duo and BlackVue DR900X-2CH Plus are prime examples, offering robust front and rear recording.

Triple-Channel Dashcams: The All-Seeing Eye

Often favored by ride-share Uber, Lyft drivers or those who want maximum coverage, these dashcams record the front, rear, and interior of the vehicle.

• Primary Function: Captures events from all three directions, providing comprehensive protection.
• Ideal User: Ride-share drivers for passenger safety and dispute resolution, families wanting to monitor interior activity, or anyone desiring ultimate surveillance.
• Pros: Unparalleled coverage, crucial for proving innocence in interior disputes or capturing evidence of vandalism from inside the vehicle.
• Cons: Most expensive, most complex installation, highest storage demands.
• Example: The Rexing V55 exemplifies this category with its front, interior, and rear recording capabilities.

Parking Mode: Your Car’s Silent Guardian

This feature is a must for protecting your vehicle when you’re away.

Parking mode allows the dashcam to continue monitoring even when the engine is off.

• How it Works: Dashcams utilize different methods to conserve power and record when parked:
  • Motion Detection: Records when movement is detected in the camera’s field of view.
  • Impact Detection G-sensor: Records only when a physical impact is detected e.g., a bump or hit.
  • Time-Lapse Recording: Continuously records at a very low frame rate e.g., 1 frame per second, compressing hours of footage into minutes. This is very efficient for storage.
  • Buffered Recording: The most advanced, it saves footage before and after an event, providing crucial context.
• Power Source: For reliable parking mode, most dashcams require hardwiring to your car’s fuse box, or a dedicated external battery pack. Relying on the internal battery alone is usually insufficient for extended parking surveillance.
• Benefits: Deters hit-and-runs in parking lots, provides evidence for vandalism, and offers peace of mind. Many users report the parking mode being the most valuable feature after an incident.

Must-Have Features Beyond the Basics

While video quality and camera types are foundational, modern dashcams come packed with a host of other features that elevate their utility and user experience. Dash cam front and inside car

GPS Logging: Knowing Where and When

Integrated GPS adds a critical layer of data to your recordings.

• Functionality: Records your vehicle’s speed and location data latitude and longitude simultaneously with the video footage.
• Benefits:
  • Evidence: Provides irrefutable proof of your speed and location at the time of an incident, invaluable for insurance claims.
  • Route Tracking: Allows you to review your journey on a map alongside the video.
  • Speed Overlays: Some dashcams embed speed data directly onto the video.
• Privacy Consideration: While beneficial, be mindful of privacy if sharing footage publicly, as your exact movements are recorded.

Wi-Fi Connectivity: Easy Access to Your Footage

Most modern dashcams include built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to connect your smartphone to the camera directly.

• Functionality: Enables wireless transfer of video files, live view streaming, and settings adjustments via a dedicated mobile app.
  • No More SD Card Swapping: You don’t need to remove the SD card and transfer to a computer to view or download clips.
  • Instant Playback: Quickly review footage on your phone at the scene of an incident.
  • Firmware Updates: Many cameras allow wireless firmware updates through the app.
• Consideration: Ensure the app is user-friendly and reliable, as a clunky app can negate the convenience of Wi-Fi.

G-Sensor Accelerometer: Detecting Impacts

The G-sensor is your dashcam’s internal “shock absorber” detector, automatically safeguarding important footage.

• Functionality: Detects sudden acceleration, braking, or impacts. When triggered, it automatically locks the current video file, preventing it from being overwritten by continuous loop recording.
• Sensitivity: Most dashcams allow you to adjust the G-sensor sensitivity to prevent false positives from potholes or rough roads.
• Benefits: Ensures critical incident footage is always preserved. This is a standard and non-negotiable feature for any reliable dashcam.

Super Capacitors vs. Batteries: Powering Through Extremes

This is a subtle but crucial difference, especially if you live in areas with extreme temperatures.

• Lithium-Ion Batteries: Common in many electronics, they are susceptible to heat and cold, potentially swelling in hot climates or failing in freezing temperatures. Over time, battery life degrades.
• Super Capacitors: Designed to withstand a much wider range of temperatures, making them ideal for cars parked in direct sunlight or extreme cold. They store energy more efficiently and have a longer lifespan.
• Recommendation: For reliability and longevity, dashcams with super capacitors are generally preferred over those with traditional lithium-ion batteries. Manufacturers like Viofo and Thinkware often utilize super capacitors.

Voice Control: Hands-Free Operation

For those who want to minimize distractions while driving, voice control is a useful addition. Dash cam best one

• Functionality: Allows you to issue commands like “record video,” “take a photo,” or “turn off audio recording” without taking your hands off the wheel or eyes off the road.
• Benefits: Enhances safety by keeping your focus on driving, convenient for quickly saving a specific moment.
• Consideration: Check the accuracy and responsiveness of the voice commands, as some implementations are better than others. The Rexing V55 and Garmin Dash Cam 67W offer solid voice control.

Installation and Setup: Getting Your Dashcam Up and Running

So, you’ve picked your dashcam.

Now what? Proper installation is vital for optimal performance and a clean look.

Mounting Options: Where to Put It?

The primary goal is to secure the camera firmly without obstructing your view.

• Adhesive Mounts 3M Tape:
  • Pros: Very secure, less prone to vibrations, often allows for a more discreet placement close to the windshield.
  • Cons: Permanent once applied, difficult to remove and reposition without new adhesive, can leave residue if not removed carefully. Most premium dashcams, like BlackVue and Thinkware, use adhesive.
• Suction Cup Mounts:
  • Pros: Easy to install, remove, and reposition.
  • Cons: Can lose suction over time, especially in extreme temperatures, potentially leading to the camera falling. More prone to vibrations, which can affect video quality.
• Placement Best Practices:
  • Center Top: Ideally, mount the dashcam in the center of your windshield, high up near the rearview mirror. This provides the best forward view without obstructing your line of sight.
  • Avoid Obstructions: Ensure the camera’s lens isn’t blocked by tint strips, wipers, or other car accessories.
  • Rear Camera: Mount the rear camera centrally on your rear windshield, ensuring it clears the defroster lines for optimal viewing.

Powering Your Dashcam: Keeping it On

Consistent power is crucial for a dashcam to perform its duty.

• Cigarette Lighter Adapter:
  • Pros: Simplest plug-and-play installation.
  • Cons: Occupies your car’s power outlet, often not suitable for parking mode unless the outlet is always on. The cable can be unsightly.
• Hardwiring Kit:
  • Pros: Essential for reliable parking mode. Provides constant power, allows the camera to draw power from your car’s fuse box, resulting in a clean, hidden cable installation. Protects your car battery from draining too much.
  • Cons: Requires basic automotive electrical knowledge or professional installation. You’ll need to identify constant and accessory fuse slots.
• OBD-II Power Cable:
  • Pros: Plugs into your car’s OBD-II port, easier than hardwiring, often supports parking mode.
  • Cons: Occupies the OBD-II port, can be slightly less discreet than hardwiring, not universally compatible with all cars or dashcams.
• External Battery Pack:
  • Pros: Provides power for parking mode without draining your car’s battery, can offer very long recording times when parked.
  • Cons: Additional cost, requires periodic charging, takes up space in the car.

Cable Management: The Clean Look

A tangled mess of wires isn’t just ugly. it can be unsafe. Newest dash cam

• Tuck Them Away: Use the included cable clips or purchase adhesive clips to neatly route the power cable along the edges of your windshield, under the headliner, down the A-pillar, and around the glove compartment or kick panel to the power source.
• Trim Removal Tools: Small plastic trim removal tools can make it easier to gently pry open panels and tuck cables without damaging your car’s interior.
• Professional Installation: If you’re unsure or prefer a perfectly discreet setup, consider a professional installer. The cost is usually modest e.g., $50-$150 and ensures a clean, reliable installation.

Maintenance and Best Practices: Keeping Your Dashcam Running Smoothly

Once installed, a dashcam isn’t entirely “set it and forget it.” A bit of routine maintenance ensures it’s always ready when you need it.

SD Card Health: The Unsung Hero

Your MicroSD card is arguably the most critical component after the camera itself.

It’s constantly being written to and overwritten, which causes wear.

• High Endurance Cards: Always use “high endurance” or “dashcam specific” MicroSD cards. These are designed for the continuous write cycles typical of dashcam use. Standard consumer-grade cards will fail quickly. Brands like SanDisk Max Endurance, Samsung PRO Endurance, and Lexar High Endurance are excellent choices.
• Regular Formatting: Format your SD card monthly or every couple of months. This helps maintain its health and prevents corrupted files. Do this through the dashcam’s settings, not on a computer.
• Replacement Schedule: Even high endurance cards have a lifespan. Plan to replace your SD card every 1-2 years, depending on usage, to prevent unexpected failures.
• Capacity: Choose a card size that supports your recording needs. 128GB or 256GB are common for 4K dual-channel setups, offering sufficient storage before loop recording overwrites older files.

Firmware Updates: Staying Current

Dashcam manufacturers frequently release firmware updates to improve performance, add features, and fix bugs.

• Check Regularly: Visit the manufacturer’s website e.g., Rexing, Viofo, BlackVue, Thinkware or use their mobile app to check for new firmware versions.
• Benefits: Improved video quality, bug fixes, enhanced stability, new features like parking mode enhancements or better app connectivity.
• Follow Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions for firmware updates precisely to avoid bricking your device.

Lens Cleaning: Clear Vision

Dust, smudges, and fingerprints on the lens will degrade video quality. Car front and back dash cam

• Gentle Cleaning: Use a microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics. Breathe gently on the lens or use a lens cleaning solution, then wipe carefully. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
• Exterior Windshield: Don’t forget to keep the section of your windshield in front of the dashcam lens clean, both inside and out.

Power Supply Check: Consistent Performance

Occasionally, check that your dashcam is receiving consistent power.

• Indicator Lights: Most dashcams have an LED indicator to show they are powered on and recording.
• Cable Integrity: Ensure power cables are not pinched or damaged, especially if routed through tight spaces.
• Fuse Box Check: If hardwired, periodically check the fuse connection to ensure it’s secure.

Legal and Insurance Considerations: Why a Dashcam Matters

Beyond just recording, a dashcam can be a powerful tool in legal and insurance scenarios.

Evidence in Accidents: An Unbiased Witness

This is the primary reason many people invest in a dashcam.

• Proof of Fault: Clear dashcam footage can definitively prove who was at fault in an accident, preventing drawn-out disputes and false claims. This is especially useful in “he said, she said” scenarios.
• Hit-and-Run: Capturing the license plate of a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run is invaluable for police and insurance investigations.
• Insurance Savings: Some insurance providers offer discounts for vehicles equipped with dashcams, recognizing their ability to reduce fraudulent claims and speed up claim processing. Always check with your provider.

Protection Against Fraud: The “Crash-for-Cash” Schemes

Unfortunately, some individuals intentionally cause accidents to claim insurance payouts.

• Exposing Scams: Dashcam footage can expose “crash-for-cash” scams, where fraudsters suddenly brake or swerve to induce a collision, then blame the innocent driver.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a recording can deter potential fraudsters from targeting your vehicle.

Parking Incidents: When You’re Not There

Your car is vulnerable even when parked. Always on rear view camera

• Vandalism: If your car is vandalized, parking mode footage can capture the perpetrator, leading to identification and accountability.
• Door Dings and Bumps: A car hitting yours in a parking lot and driving off can be frustrating. Parking mode can capture the incident, including the offending vehicle’s details.

Privacy and Data Security: Important Considerations

While dashcams offer immense benefits, it’s important to be mindful of privacy.

• Public Roads: Recording on public roads is generally legal in most places, as there’s no expectation of privacy.
• Private Property: Be aware of local laws regarding recording on private property.
• Audio Recording: Some jurisdictions have two-party consent laws for audio recording. If you plan to record audio, especially with passengers, be aware of these regulations. For ride-share drivers, it’s often recommended to inform passengers about audio recording.
• Data Storage and Sharing: Treat your dashcam footage as sensitive data. Store it securely and only share it with relevant authorities or insurance providers when necessary. Avoid posting sensitive footage publicly without careful consideration.

By understanding these nuances, you can ensure your dashcam serves its purpose effectively and legally, providing true peace of mind on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top ten dashcams currently available?

While a definitive “top ten” can fluctuate with new releases, some of the consistently highest-rated and popular dash cameras include the Rexing V55, Viofo A129 Pro Duo, BlackVue DR900X-2CH Plus, Garmin Dash Cam 67W, Nextbase 622GW, Thinkware U1000, and Cobra SC400D, all offering excellent video quality and features.

Are dashcams legal in all U.S. states?

Yes, dashcams are generally legal in all U.S. states for video recording.

However, specific regulations regarding placement to avoid obstructing driver’s view and audio recording two-party consent laws in some states vary. Always check your local state laws. Dash cam for car installation

What is the best resolution for a dashcam?

For optimal clarity and detail, 4K UHD 2160p is generally considered the best resolution, allowing you to clearly capture license plates and fine details. 1440p 2K is also excellent, offering a significant upgrade over standard 1080p.

How long do dashcam recordings last on an SD card?

The recording duration depends on the SD card’s capacity, the camera’s resolution, and the number of channels recording.

For example, a 128GB card might hold roughly 8-12 hours of 4K dual-channel footage before older files are overwritten by loop recording.

Do dashcams record when the car is off?

Yes, many top-tier dashcams offer a “parking mode” feature that allows them to record when the car is off.

This typically requires a hardwiring kit or an external battery pack to prevent draining your car’s battery. Toyota dash cam front and rear

What is a G-sensor in a dashcam?

A G-sensor or accelerometer detects sudden impacts, acceleration, or braking.

When triggered, it automatically “locks” the current video file, preventing it from being overwritten during continuous loop recording, thus preserving crucial incident footage.

Is Wi-Fi necessary for a dashcam?

While not strictly necessary for basic recording, Wi-Fi connectivity is highly recommended.

It allows you to wirelessly connect your smartphone to the dashcam to view live footage, transfer files, and adjust settings via a mobile app, making it much more convenient.

What’s the difference between a dashcam with a battery and one with a super capacitor?

Dashcams with super capacitors are generally preferred as they are more resistant to extreme temperatures hot and cold, have a longer lifespan, and are less prone to degradation compared to those with traditional lithium-ion batteries. Driving recorder front and rear

How do I install a dashcam?

Most dashcams come with either adhesive mounts or suction cups.

For power, you can use a cigarette lighter adapter simple plug-and-play or a hardwiring kit for parking mode and cleaner installation, often requiring professional help or basic electrical knowledge. Cables can be tucked along trim panels for a discreet look.

How often should I format my dashcam’s SD card?

It’s recommended to format your dashcam’s SD card regularly, ideally once a month or every two months. This helps maintain the card’s health, prevents data corruption, and ensures optimal recording performance.

Do dashcams prevent car insurance claims?

While dashcams don’t prevent claims, they can significantly simplify and expedite the claims process by providing irrefutable video evidence. This can lead to faster resolution and help prove your innocence, potentially preventing increased premiums if you’re not at fault. Some insurers even offer discounts for dashcam users.

Can I use any MicroSD card in my dashcam?

No, it’s crucial to use “high endurance” or “dashcam specific” MicroSD cards. These cards are designed to withstand the constant writing and overwriting cycles that dashcams perform, unlike standard consumer-grade cards which will fail quickly under such conditions. Wireless rear view mirror backup camera

What is loop recording on a dashcam?

Loop recording is a feature that allows a dashcam to continuously record by overwriting the oldest video files when the SD card is full.

This ensures the camera never stops recording due to lack of space, while G-sensor triggered files are protected from being overwritten.

Are dashcams useful for ride-share drivers Uber/Lyft?

Yes, dashcams are extremely useful for ride-share drivers.

Triple-channel dashcams front, rear, and interior can provide crucial evidence in case of passenger disputes, vandalism, or accidents, protecting both the driver and passengers.

What is the average price range for a good dashcam?

A good quality single-channel dashcam can range from $100-$200. For excellent dual-channel or triple-channel systems with advanced features like 4K resolution, Wi-Fi, and robust parking modes, expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500+. Dash cam 70 mai

Do dashcams record audio?

Yes, most dashcams can record audio, typically through a built-in microphone.

This feature can usually be turned off in the settings if you prefer not to record audio, which is important to consider due to varying state laws on audio recording consent.

How wide of a viewing angle do I need?

A viewing angle between 140 to 170 degrees is generally sufficient for most dashcams. This range captures multiple lanes of traffic and road shoulders without introducing excessive fisheye distortion, ensuring you get comprehensive coverage.

What is parking guard or parking surveillance?

Parking guard or surveillance is a feature in dashcams that records incidents when your vehicle is parked.

It typically uses motion detection, impact detection G-sensor, or time-lapse recording to capture events like hit-and-runs or vandalism while the car is off.

Can dashcams drain my car battery?

If a dashcam is used with parking mode without proper hardwiring or an external battery pack, it can drain your car’s battery over time.

Hardwiring kits usually have a voltage cut-off to prevent excessive battery drain, ensuring your car can still start.

Should I get a dashcam with a screen or one that uses a phone app?

Both types have pros and cons.

Dashcams with built-in screens offer immediate playback and settings adjustment directly on the device, while those that rely on a phone app like many discreet BlackVue models can be smaller and less noticeable, offering a larger viewing screen via your smartphone.

It often comes down to personal preference for convenience and stealth.