When you hear the phrase “dash cam,” it’s easy to think of those ridiculous dash cam videos recorded by Russian drivers, but they have far more functionality than catching crazy events that happen out on the road. We decided to look at the pros and cons of having a dash cam, and give you our recommendation.
How Do Dash Cams Work?
A dash cam is a camera mounted to the interior of your car, often just below the rear view mirror. Its primary function is to record the road ahead of your vehicle, but you can also buy more dash cams to use as backup cameras or to watch the sides or interior of your vehicle. Recorded footage can be used to document car accidents (especially hit-and-runs), or create a lovely road-trip timelapse.
Typically, these devices are powered either by plugging into your car’s cigarette lighter port or by being professionally wired to your vehicle’s battery. Newer devices transmit data to your smartphone or computer via built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, though some still opt for writing data onto a local microSD card. Some can support several GB of data, but usually these cameras just loop record over footage infinitely until you save a clip.
Dash cams are typically quite small and can be mounted more or less discreetly to your windshield. Some even have a small built-in screen and navigational panel that allow you to review footage and adjust settings without having to use your phone or laptop.
It’s fair to say that, when it comes to dash cams, you get what you pay for. Super cheap or overly expensive dash cams are rarely worth looking at, and the best dash cams usually retail for anywhere from $150-$300. Generally speaking, higher-end models offer better video resolution (which is important for capturing little details like license plate numbers, dents, etc.), wider viewing angles, and maintaining good video quality while recording in low-light situations.
The Benefits of Having a Dash Cam
Toa55/Shutterstock.comDash cams can help you contest speeding tickets, capture car theft or other unexpected events, and record evidence of dangerous drivers or car accidents (whether they involve you or other drivers). Certain auto insurance companies may also offer discounts to dash-cam owners.
Some dash cams have handy included features as well, like built-in GPS, which can geotag a particular location you recorded. This is great for finding exactly where that beautiful road you drove on last Sunday was, or for providing evidence in a car crash. Newer dash cams also have integration with smart assistants, like Alexa, or support voice commands that let you tell the device to save a clip while you keep your hands on the steering wheel.
A few dash cams can notify you of upcoming speed traps and traffic cameras, preventing you from getting an unnecessary ticket. Others can notify you of lane collisions and tailgating, helping you be a safer driver. They’re also a great tool to have in your teenager’s car to ensure they are driving safely and paying attention to the road.
Another great feature some cams have is Emergency SOS, which can alert emergency services on your behalf if you’re incapacitated in a car accident. Lastly, some dash cams come with a second camera that can be used as a backup camera or to record the inside of your vehicle. This can be a good way to keep an eye on your kids or capture a car thief.
Disadvantages of Dash Cams
Titikul_B/Shutterstock.comDepending on what features you want—and even factoring in professional installation—dash cams can be pricey. Like, over $500 pricey. Alternatively, super cheap options are almost always problematic in being unreliable or missing crucial features.
Regardless of what you end up spending on your dash cam (and it’s worth noting that good devices cost at least $200), there’s always the risk that they could be stolen because they sit out in the open and are easy to spot. And if a burglar decides to break into your car for that, they might root around and look for other goods. It’s a noteworthy risk, especially considering the fact that a dash cam isn’t something most people need to have.
Some dash cam models can record audio or include a secondary camera for monitoring your car’s interior. Because the cameras are mounted inside your vehicle, this means they could record the conversations and action of you and your passengers. It also means it could record you texting while driving or doing other things you shouldn’t do. While well-intentioned, this brushes up against privacy issues, especially if the dash cam you choose stores data via the cloud, rather than on an internal SD card. You’ll also be responsible for notifying your passengers of these features and asking for their consent.
Final Verdict
Although they’re not something you have to have, the benefits of dash cams far outweigh their few disadvantages, so we heartily recommend having one if it’s within your budget. Despite the high purchase price, the long-term ability to record incidents and receive advanced warning of things like speed traps makes a dash cam an invaluable asset to have while on the road. They’re also great to have if you live in a high-traffic or dangerous area.
The Best Dash Cams You Can Buy Today
If you decide to spring for a dash cam, we have a couple of excellent choices for you. Each option is packed full of all the features you’d expect and more (like smart assistant integration).
Nextbase 522GW
NextbaseThe Nextbase 522GW ($259.99) can capture events in HD 1440p at 30 frames per second. It has a 140-degree angle field of view and a built-in G-sensor for detecting (and initializing video capture of) accidents. You can review footage on the 3-inch screen, and the built-in emergency SOS feature can alert emergency services if you’re in an accident.
Buy at BestBuy
Garmin Dash Cam 66W
GarminThe Garmin Dash Cam 66W has a compact wired design and an impressive 180-degree field of view. It can capture sharp 1440p HDR video even in low light. You can review footage on the device’s 2-inch LCD screen, and you can sync and play back footage on your smartphone using the iOS or Android Garmin app. Voice controls let you start, stop, and save clips, and it provides driver alerts for better awareness.
Garmin Dash Cam 66W
Garmin Dash Cam 66W, Extra-Wide 180-Degree Field of View In 1440P HD, 2″ LCD Screen and Voice Control, Very Compact with Automatic Incident Detection and Recording
Record driving footage in HD, review it on the built-in screen.
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$199.99
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Garmin Dash Cam Mini
GarminIf you’re on a budget, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini is a decent option that’s backed by a popular well-known brand name. Its small size not only lowers the price but makes it more discreet. Despite this, it can still shoot in 1080p, but you’ll only be able to review footage or control settings on the iOS or Android app, as this device lacks a built-in screen.
Garmin Dash Cam Mini
Garmin 010-02062-00 Dash Cam Mini, Car Key-Sized Dash Cam, 140-Degree Wide-Angle Lens, Captures 1080P HD Footage, Very Compact with Automatic Incident Detection and Recording
This petite dash cam makes for discreet 1080p HD recording, but requires the companion app to review footage.
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$95.99
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