Like a reliable co-pilot, a dash cam captures what you might overlook. The best dash cams operate continuously, monitoring your car even when you’re away, and recording everything with superior memory. In today’s driving environment, a dash cam, even for short trips, is essential. Many models offer dual cameras, recording both inside and outside the vehicle simultaneously. This footage serves as crucial evidence in accidents, deters insurance fraud, and helps determine fault in collisions.
However, dash cams vary significantly in quality and features. MaagX has reviewed several top-performing dash cams to help you choose the best one for your needs.
Top Pick: Vantrue E360 Panoramic
Vantrue E360 Panoramic – best dash cams
Why we recommend it: The unparalleled 5.2K panoramic view sets this dash cam apart. Panoramic recording is often a gimmick, but the Vantrue E360 executes it flawlessly, capturing a comprehensive 360-degree view at 5184 x 1944P resolution, eliminating blind spots. This comprehensive coverage is invaluable in any incident. The 24/7 buffered parking mode records suspicious activity around your parked vehicle and automatically activates if a window breaks.
Smart voice and touch controls simplify configuration, especially on long drives, supporting multiple languages. Other impressive features include dual STARVIS 2 technology, HDR, IR night vision with 8 infrared lights, 5GHz WiFi, and a dual-system GPS module.
Best Budget Dash Cam (Under $100): Miofive S1 (4K)
Miofive S1 4K dash cam with mobile view — best dash cams
Why we recommend it: The Miofive S1 offers exceptional value, delivering 4K 2160P recording, wide-angle lens, parking mode, night vision, and more at an affordable price. This dash cam proves you don’t have to sacrifice features for affordability. It’s a fantastic gift idea, especially when on sale.
Key features include true 4K UHD recording at 30fps, built-in GPS, loop recording, and an included 32GB microSD card for immediate use. It also offers 5G WiFi, Bluetooth, and multiple parking modes, all at an incredibly competitive price.
Best Compact Dash Cam: Garmin Mini 3
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 with mobile UI in view
Why we recommend it: Despite its compact size, the Garmin Mini 3 is a feature-rich 1080P dash cam with Garmin Drive app synchronization. It records in 1080P full HD with a 140-degree wide-angle lens, capturing a significant area in front of your vehicle. The Garmin Clarity polarizer lens minimizes windshield glare, ensuring high-quality footage. Voice commands in multiple languages offer convenient control.
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB connectivity are standard. The standout feature is the Garmin Drive app integration, enabling remote access, footage download, and parking guard notifications for added security. Easy setup, user-friendly interface, and mobile app functionality make this dash cam a modern and practical choice.
Best Dual-View Dash Cam: 70mai A810-2
70mai Dash Cam with mobile app interface
Why we recommend it: The 70mai A810-2 is a reliable and feature-packed dual-camera system. It features a 4K front-facing camera and a 1080P rear-facing camera, providing comprehensive coverage day and night. Dual HDR super night vision enhances low-light performance, capturing crucial details. Loop recording, emergency footage locking, and smart app synchronization are valuable features.
Additional features include GPS tracking, an optional LTE module, and a parking monitor. The Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) provides real-time alerts for driving hazards and lane departures.
Best Dash Cam for Safety: Thinkware U3000
Thinkware U3000 2-channel dash cam with mobile view — best dash cams
Why we recommend it: The Thinkware U3000 offers maximum safety with front and rear video surveillance. While expensive, it provides comprehensive coverage and exceptional video quality. The front camera records in 4K UHD, while the rear captures 2K QHD at 30fps. Wi-Fi, GPS, a G-sensor, and a low-power parking mode are included. The Sony Starvis 2 image sensor enhances low-light recording.
The THINKWARE app provides driver-assist features, including impact notifications, parking notifications, remote live view, vehicle status, driving history alerts, and parking space images. The built-in GPS tracks speed and time data, providing real-time alerts for red light and speed cameras. The smart parking mode captures images of your surroundings if a bump is detected while parked.
An Old Favorite: Garmin Dash Cam 56
Garmin Dash Cam 56 with mobile UI — best dash cams
Why we recommend it: The Garmin Dash Cam 56 offers a robust feature set at a reasonable price. It boasts a 140-degree field of view and Clarity HDR for enhanced recordings. Recording at 1440p HD at 30fps, it delivers stunning daytime and respectable nighttime footage. It offers reliable driver aids with relevant alerts and voice-activated functions for convenient control. The Travelapse feature creates shareable time-lapse videos. The Garmin Dash Cam 56 combines excellent performance, a sturdy design, and valuable features.
How to Install a Dash Cam
Dash cam installation is typically straightforward. The simplest method involves plugging the power cord into your car’s 12-volt outlet and attaching the camera to the windshield using the included suction cup. Ensure a clear view of the road without obstructing your vision.
For a cleaner installation, hard-wiring is an option. This involves tucking the power cord under the headliner and A-pillar, connecting it to the fuse box using a fuse tap. This method requires some basic automotive electrical knowledge.
Dash Cam Recording Media and Duration
Most dash cams record to microSD cards. The loop recording function overwrites older footage when the card is full. Disabling this function requires manual deletion or card replacement. An 8GB card holds approximately 20 minutes of 1080p AVI footage. Larger cards and lower resolutions increase recording capacity.
Dash Cam Night Vision
Dash cams rely on available light sources, like headlights and streetlights, for night recording. Advanced sensors improve low-light performance, but clarity varies by model. Some high-end models offer night vision technology, automatically adjusting lighting levels for optimal image quality.
Dash Cam Temperature Tolerance
Dash cams are designed to withstand a wide range of temperatures, similar to in-dash navigation systems. Capacitor-based models offer superior temperature tolerance and record the last few moments of footage when powered off. While more expensive, capacitor-based dash cams are more durable in extreme climates.
Dash Cam Integration with Voice Assistants
Smartphone integration is limited in the dash cam market. Some models offer voice activation, but full integration with Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant is rare. The Garmin Speak Plus is a notable exception, offering extensive Alexa integration for various functions while driving.
