In the fast-paced world of 2024, where every moment on the road can turn into an unexpected adventure or an unforeseen challenge, dash cams have evolved from luxury gadgets to essential tools for drivers. These compact devices offer more than just a silent witness to your journeys; they provide peace of mind, security, and invaluable assistance in the unfortunate event of an accident. With advancements in technology, the market is flooded with options, each boasting features like 4K video recording, night vision, and even AI-driven safety alerts. In this guide, we delve into the top 10 dash cams of 2024, exploring their innovative features, performance, and how they stand out in the crowded landscape of automotive accessories. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a professional driver, or an occasional road-tripper, join us in finding the perfect dash cam to safeguard your travels and capture every moment on the road with clarity and confidence.
Top 10 Dash Cams of 2024
Vantrue N4 3 Channel 4K Dash Cam
(Image Credit: Vantrue)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: 4K + 1080P Front and Rear
- Viewing angle: 155 degrees front, 165 degrees inside, 160 degrees rear
- GPS tracker: Yes (with optional GPS mount)
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Tri-channel recording: Provides comprehensive coverage of your vehicle’s surroundings.
- Superior night vision: Enhanced with infrared technology for clear footage in low-light conditions.
- 24/7 Parking mode: Offers round-the-clock surveillance with motion and impact detection.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Complex setup: The system’s three cameras can be challenging to install and configure.
- Requires external GPS mount: For those looking to use the GPS features, an additional purchase is necessary.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You’re looking for a dash cam that covers every angle, providing a full view of the front, interior, and rear of your vehicle. ✅ High-quality night vision is a priority for you, ensuring clear recordings in all lighting conditions.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You prefer a simple, single-camera setup for straightforward driving recording. ❌ You want out-of-the-box GPS functionality without the need for additional accessories.
The Vantrue N4 3 Channel 4K Dash Cam stands out with its comprehensive coverage and exceptional recording quality, making it ideal for drivers who demand the utmost in surveillance and security. Despite its complex setup and the need for an external GPS mount, its performance and feature set make it a top choice for those who value thoroughness on the road.
Garmin Dash Cam 57
(Image Credit: Garmin)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: 1440p
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees
- GPS tracker: Yes
- Memory: MicroSD card (included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Compact design: Small and discreet, it doesn’t obstruct your view while driving.
- Voice control: Enables hands-free operation to save footage or take pictures.
- Driver alerts: Offers forward collision and lane departure warnings for safer driving.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Limited field of view: Compared to some models, the 140-degree angle might miss some peripheral details.
- No rear camera option: This model doesn’t support recording what’s happening behind your vehicle.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You’re looking for a dash cam that’s easy to use, with voice commands and automatic incident detection. ✅ Enhanced driver safety features are important to you, offering additional peace of mind.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You need coverage of the area behind your vehicle as well as the front. ❌ You prefer a wider viewing angle to capture more of the road’s surroundings.
Garmin’s Dash Cam 57 offers a balance of advanced features in a compact, user-friendly package. While it may not have the widest viewing angle or rear camera capabilities, its high-quality recordings, voice control, and safety features make it a solid choice for everyday use.
NEXTBASE 522GW Dash Cam
(Image Credit: NEXTBASE)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: 1440p
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees
- GPS tracker: Yes
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Alexa integration: Control the dash cam with voice commands and access smart features.
- Emergency SOS: In the event of an accident, it can send your location to emergency services.
- Enhanced night vision: Ensures clear footage even in low-light conditions.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Battery life: Limited when not connected to a power source, affecting parking mode functionality.
- Complicated menu: Some users may find the interface and settings menu confusing at first.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You value safety features like Emergency SOS and want the convenience of voice control with Alexa. ✅ Superior video quality and night vision capabilities are top priorities for your dash cam needs.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You need a dash cam with a long battery life for extended use without a power source. ❌ You prefer a dash cam with a straightforward, easy-to-navigate menu system.
The NEXTBASE 522GW stands out for its innovative safety features and high-quality recording capabilities, making it a smart choice for tech-savvy users and those who prioritize safety on the road.
REDTIGER Dash Cam Front and Rear
(Image Credit: REDTIGER)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: Front 4K, Rear 1080P
- Viewing angle: Front 170 degrees, Rear 140 degrees
- GPS tracker: Built-in
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Dual recording: Captures high-quality video footage at the front and rear simultaneously.
- Super capacitor: Offers enhanced temperature resistance and a longer lifespan than battery-powered models.
- Wide dynamic range: Improves video quality under different lighting conditions.
REASONS TO AVOID
- File size: High-resolution videos require significant storage space.
- Complex installation: Setting up the rear camera can be challenging for some users.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You’re in search of a dash cam that offers both front and rear recording in high definition. ✅ Durability and reliability are crucial, especially in extreme weather conditions.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You’re concerned about managing large video files and frequently transferring them. ❌ You want a simple, straightforward dash cam setup without the need for rear camera installation.
The REDTIGER Dash Cam is ideal for users who want comprehensive coverage of their vehicle’s surroundings with the added benefits of durability and high-quality recordings, making it a solid choice for comprehensive surveillance.
BlackVue DR900X-2CH with 32GB microSD Card
(Image Credit: BlackVue)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: 4K Front, 1080P Rear
- Viewing angle: Front 162 degrees, Rear 139 degrees
- GPS tracker: Built-in
- Memory: 32GB microSD card included, expandable
REASONS TO BUY
- Cloud connectivity: Offers remote live view and video backup options.
- Advanced parking mode: Provides added security when the vehicle is parked.
- High-quality lenses: Ensures crystal-clear footage in various lighting conditions.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Premium price: One of the more expensive options on the market.
- Complex features: May require a learning curve for users new to dash cams.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You’re looking for a premium dash cam with cloud storage capabilities and exceptional video quality. ✅ Advanced features like live view and comprehensive parking mode are important to you.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You’re on a tight budget and looking for a more affordable dash cam solution. ❌ You prefer a simpler device that’s easy to set up and use without a steep learning curve.
BlackVue’s DR900X-2CH offers top-of-the-line features and video quality for users who demand the best from their dash cam, making it an excellent choice for tech enthusiasts and those who prioritize vehicle security.
VIOFO A119 V3 2K Dash Cam
(Image Credit: VIOFO)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: 2K 2560x1440P
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees
- GPS tracker: Built-in
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Quad HD resolution: Provides sharp and detailed footage, capturing important details.
- Advanced parking mode: Offers buffered recording to capture events before and after a triggered event.
- Budget-friendly: High-quality features at a more accessible price point.
REASONS TO AVOID
- No rear camera: Only offers front-facing recording without the option for rear coverage.
- Menu navigation: Some users might find the menu system less intuitive.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You’re looking for a high-resolution dash cam that doesn’t break the bank. ✅ Advanced features like parking mode and GPS logging are important to you.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You need dual-channel recording to monitor both the front and rear of your vehicle. ❌ You prefer a dash cam with a more user-friendly interface for easier operation.
The VIOFO A119 V3 strikes a balance between quality and affordability, making it an excellent choice for drivers who want a reliable dash cam without overspending.
Thinkware F200 PRO Full HD 1080P WiFi Dash Cam
(Image Credit: Thinkware)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: Full HD 1080P
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees
- GPS tracker: Optional
- Memory: MicroSD card (included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Integrated Wi-Fi: Allows for easy video downloading and settings adjustments via a smartphone app.
- Safety camera alerts: Provides warnings for speed cameras and red-light cameras.
- Cost-effective: Offers a range of premium features at a mid-range price point.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Optional GPS: Requires an additional purchase to enable GPS features.
- Limited advanced features: Some competitors offer more cutting-edge technology at a similar price.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You value convenience and ease of use, with Wi-Fi connectivity for straightforward video management. ✅ You appreciate having additional driving assistance features like safety camera alerts.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You want GPS functionality included without needing to buy extra accessories. ❌ You’re looking for the latest and greatest technology in dash cams.
Thinkware’s F200 PRO is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and user-friendly dash cam with a good balance of features and affordability.
DOD TECH RX8W RX DOD Rearview Mirror Dash Camera
(Image Credit: DOD)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: Full HD 1080P
- Viewing angle: Not specified
- GPS tracker: No
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Mirror design: Seamlessly integrates with your vehicle’s rearview mirror for a discreet setup.
- Wide dynamic range (WDR): Enhances video quality under diverse lighting conditions.
- Easy installation: Clips onto the existing rearview mirror, making setup straightforward.
REASONS TO AVOID
- No GPS tracking: Lacks the ability to log speed and location data.
- Limited viewing angle information: Details on the field of view are not readily provided, which may impact decision-making.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You prefer a dash cam that blends into your vehicle’s interior without attracting attention. ✅ Ease of installation and a straightforward design are top priorities for you.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ GPS features are a must-have for your dash cam needs. ❌ You want detailed specifications about the viewing angle before making a purchase.
The DOD TECH RX8W offers a unique mirror design for those seeking a less conspicuous dash cam option, prioritizing simplicity and integration over advanced features.
Kingslim D4 4K Dual Dash Cam
(Image Credit: Kingslim)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: Front 4K, Rear 1080P
- Viewing angle: Front 170 degrees, Rear 150 degrees
- GPS tracker: Built-in
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Dual-channel recording: Captures detailed footage both in front and behind your vehicle.
- Touchscreen display: Offers a user-friendly interface for easy settings adjustments and playback.
- Night vision: Utilizes Sony sensor technology for clear recordings in low-light conditions.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Battery life: Relies on a capacitor for power, which may limit functionality without a constant power source.
- Storage requirements: High-resolution videos demand more storage space, necessitating frequent data management.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You want the clarity of 4K video for the front camera and comprehensive coverage with a rear camera. ✅ A touchscreen interface for ease of use is important to you.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You’re concerned about managing and storing large video files. ❌ You need a dash cam that operates efficiently on battery power for extended periods.
Kingslim’s D4 4K Dual Dash Cam is perfect for drivers who prioritize video quality and ease of use, offering high-resolution recordings and a convenient touchscreen interface.
REXING V1 – 4K Ultra HD Car Dash Cam
(Image Credit: REXING)
SPECIFICATIONS
- Video quality: 4K Ultra HD
- Viewing angle: 170 degrees
- GPS tracker: Optional
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
REASONS TO BUY
- Ultra HD resolution: Ensures every detail is captured with clarity.
- Wide viewing angle: Covers a broad area to capture more of the road.
- Loop recording and G-sensor: Automatically saves footage of incidents and overwrites unneeded files.
REASONS TO AVOID
- GPS sold separately: To track speed and location, an additional purchase is necessary.
- Complex setup: Some users may find the installation and configuration process challenging.
BUY IT IF: ✅ You demand the highest video quality for capturing road details. ✅ A wide viewing angle to record a greater expanse of the road is essential for you.
DON’T BUY IT IF: ❌ You want integrated GPS functionality without extra accessories. ❌ You prefer a dash cam with a simpler, more straightforward setup process.
The REXING V1 offers superior video quality and a comprehensive viewing angle, making it a top choice for those who place a premium on recording clarity and coverage.
How to choose the best dashcam for you?
Choosing the best dash cam for your vehicle involves navigating through a myriad of features, brands, and price points. In 2024, the evolution of dash cam technology has made these devices more sophisticated than ever, offering an array of functionalities tailored to diverse driving needs and preferences. Whether you’re a professional driver looking to safeguard your route, a daily commuter aiming to document your journey, or an enthusiast capturing scenic drives, selecting the right dash cam is pivotal. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best dash cam, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your requirements.
Consider Video Quality
The primary purpose of a dash cam is to record clear and detailed footage of your driving. Look for cameras that offer high-resolution recording, such as 1080p (Full HD) or 4K (Ultra HD), to ensure that details like license plates and street signs are visible, even in low light conditions. Higher resolution cameras generally offer better clarity, but they also require more storage space.
Evaluate the Field of View
A wider field of view captures more of the surroundings but can sometimes distort the image at the edges (a fish-eye effect). A field of view around 140 to 160 degrees is generally a good balance, offering a comprehensive view without significant distortion.
Assess Night Vision Capabilities
Driving doesn’t only happen in daylight. High-quality night vision is crucial for capturing clear footage in low-light conditions. Look for dash cams with advanced sensors and features like WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) to enhance video quality at night.
Check for Parking Mode
Parking mode is a feature that allows the dash cam to record while your car is parked, providing surveillance against theft or damage. Cameras with this feature typically use motion or impact detection to start recording, ensuring that any incidents are captured even when you’re not around.
GPS Functionality
GPS integration adds location and speed data to your recordings, which can be invaluable in the event of an accident or for reviewing travel routes. Decide whether GPS is a must-have feature for you, as it often comes at an additional cost.
Consider Ease of Use and Installation
A user-friendly interface and straightforward installation process can make your experience with a dash cam much more pleasant. Consider models with intuitive controls, clear instructions, and the necessary installation equipment included.
Explore Additional Features
Modern dash cams come with a variety of additional features such as Wi-Fi connectivity for easy file transfer, voice control for hands-free operation, and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) like lane departure warnings. Prioritize which features align with your needs.
Storage Capacity
The amount of footage a dash cam can store before overwriting old files is important. Most dash cams use microSD cards for storage. Check the maximum supported capacity and consider the cost of purchasing a high-capacity card if it’s not included.
Reliability and Battery Life
Choose a dash cam with a proven track record of reliability and durability, especially one that can withstand the temperature extremes in a vehicle. Additionally, consider whether you need a battery-powered model or one that uses a supercapacitor, which tends to have a longer lifespan and better heat resistance.
Budget and Brand Reputation
Finally, balance your budget with the quality and features you need. It’s often worth investing a bit more in a dash cam from a reputable brand to ensure reliability, customer support, and firmware updates that can extend the device’s lifespan.
Selecting the right dash cam in 2024 means weighing various factors from video quality and viewing angle to additional features and overall reliability. By carefully considering what’s most important for your driving habits and vehicle, you can find a dash cam that not only records your journeys but also enhances your driving experience with peace of mind and security.
Choosing the best dash cam for your vehicle in 2024 is no small feat, given the plethora of options available, each with its unique set of features and benefits. From the high-resolution clarity of the Vantrue N4 3 Channel 4K Dash Cam to the compact design and advanced safety features of the Garmin Dash Cam 57, and the innovative cloud connectivity of the BlackVue DR900X-2CH, this year’s lineup offers something for every type of driver. While the ideal dash cam for you depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget, one thing remains clear: investing in a dash cam is investing in your safety and peace of mind on the road. As technology continues to advance, dash cams have become more than just tools for recording road incidents; they are now integral components of a comprehensive driving experience, offering protection, evidence, and even entertainment. With the insights provided in this guide, we hope you feel equipped to make an informed decision and find a dash cam that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, keeping you safe and secure as you navigate the roads of 2024 and beyond.
