Dash Camera Buying Guide

Thinking about buying a dash camera? These handy devices can offer some much needed peace of mind when you’re out and about in your car, allowing you to record what’s happening around you as it happens. Before you commit to a specific make or model, be sure to browse through our handy dash camera buying guide to learn about the different types of dash cameras available, top features to look out for and more.

COVERAGE

Most dash cameras only record footage of what is happening in front of the vehicle. While this is fine for most motorists, others may prefer some additional coverage. Some dual lens dash camera models come with a secondary rear-facing camera that can be used to capture footage of what’s happening in the car, while others have a second camera that is mounted on the rear window, providing an external view. Each person’s needs are different, so consider what you’ll be using your dash camera for and choose the best model from there.

PLACEMENT WITHIN THE CAR

When choosing where you will mount your dash camera, it’s important to consider both the field of view of the camera lens and the field of view of the driver. First and foremost, the location of the dash camera shouldn’t distract the driver when the car is in motion. For this reason, behind or below the rear vision mirror may be the best option. This position also helps to prevent windscreen wipers and other parts of the car from disrupting the view of the camera.

PRIVACY

In most cases, it is legal to use a dash camera to record public roads. However, it is important to consider how you will use the footage that you record. Sharing footage with police and your insurance company is typically fine, but you may want to think twice about sharing video online or on social media.

• Parking mode: This mode allows the dash cam to continue recording even after the car has been parked. This feature can be handy in some cases, recording any accidents that may occur when the car is left unattended. For the continuous recording of footage, the dash cam may need to be hardwired.

• Storage space: Many dash cameras record footage directly to a memory card. The amount of storage space that you’ll require will vary on the resolution and frame rate of the model that you choose. In most cases, 32GB or 64GB will be sufficient, allowing you to store several hours of high resolution footage. It is important to note that some devices may have storage limits, so be sure to investigate this before purchasing a memory card.

• Automatic recording: A common feature of most dash cams, automatic recording allows the camera to start recording as soon as the car is started, stopping a certain amount of time after the car is turned off.

• Continuous loop recording: Allowing you to record footage without having to worry about running out of storage space, this feature allows the memory card to be filled and then, once at capacity, older footage will be deleted to make way for new footage. This is a standard feature of most models and ensures that you don’t miss out on recording footage just because your memory card reaches capacity.

• Internal battery: Most dash cameras are powered by a 12 volt socket within your car but it can be a good idea to look for a model that also has an internal battery. Although most internal batteries do not offer an extensive battery life, many provide enough power to allow footage to be saved in the case of an accident or if the power connection to the device were to be cut.

• Resolution: The resolution of a dash camera affects the quality of the footage captured. Most models capture high-definition (1080p) footage, while some others support 4K ultra-high definition video. You don’t necessarily need the highest resolution on the market, but it’s a good idea to choose a model with a resolution of 720p or higher. Higher resolution video tends to take up more storage space too, so be sure to take this into consideration.

• Frame rate: Along with resolution, frame rate can also affect the quality of the footage recorded. If possible, look for models with a frame rate of 24 frames per second (fps) or higher. Footage filmed with a frame rate above 30fps tends to require more storage space, so be sure to keep this in mind when selecting a model that’s right for your needs.

• GPS overlay: GPS overlay can be handy for pinpointing where footage was captured and at what speed you were travelling. As you travel, your location and speed are automatically captured and linked to the footage that is being recorded. This can come in handy if you are in a crash and need to share the footage with the police or your insurance company.

• Impact detection: This handy feature allows dash cams to record when a car is moved or bumped, or when someone attempts to enter the car. Some models record information about the direction of the impact, as well as the force involved.

• Display screen: A built-in display screen can be helpful when setting up your dash camera, allowing you to quickly check that it is aligned correctly. This feature can also make reviewing footage simpler, allowing you to quickly check what has been recorded without the need for a computer.

• Device size: Although this feature isn’t directly related to the operation of the device, the dash camera size that you choose is generally a personal preference. A smaller model may suit a compact vehicle better than a bulkier device, while larger devices may be easier for you to operate.

• Installation methods: There are two main ways to install a dash camera: with a bracket or an adhesive fastening. A bracket with a suction cup is easy to use and remove, but may move out of place over time. A permanent adhesive fastening helps to ensure that your device won’t move out of place, but can be more difficult to remove down the line.