Dash Cam Buying Guide
Dash cameras (or “dash cams”) have become one of the most popular upgrades for modern drivers. With thousands of brands and models on the market, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re after peace of mind on your daily commute, protection against hit-and-runs, or security while parked, this guide breaks down the features you need to consider before buying.
Why You Need a Dash Cam
Dash cams are more than just gadgets; they’re a practical tool for safety and security. These compact devices record the road ahead (and sometimes behind or inside your car) to provide video evidence in the event of an accident or incident. From protecting against fraudulent insurance claims to capturing unexpected moments on the road, a dash cam can be your silent witness.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Dash Cam
Not all dash cams are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
1. Video Quality
The resolution of your dash cam plays a huge role in how useful the footage will be. At a minimum, aim for Full HD (1080p) resolution. Higher-end models now offer 2K (1440p) or even 4K Ultra HD video, which provides crystal-clear footage that can capture license plates, faces, and road signs with greater accuracy.
Also, check the frame rate. A dash cam with 60fps (frames per second) will provide smoother video playback than one with 30fps, especially in fast-moving traffic situations.
2. Field of View
Field of view (FOV) refers to how much of the road your dash cam can see. Most dash cams offer between 120 to 170 degrees of coverage. A wider field of view captures more of your surroundings, which is great for recording multi-lane roads or intersections. But keep in mind that extreme wide angles can sometimes cause distortion at the edges of the footage.
3. Night Vision
Accidents don’t just happen during the day. A dash cam with good low-light performance or built-in infrared (IR) night vision is crucial for recording clear footage at night or in poorly lit areas. Look for cameras with wide-aperture lenses and sensors designed for night recording.
4. Storage Capacity and Loop Recording
Most dash cams use microSD cards for storage. Higher resolution video consumes more space, so consider using a card with at least 64GB capacity. Some premium models support up to 256GB or more.
Loop recording is another important feature. It means the dash cam will automatically overwrite the oldest files when the card is full, so you never have to worry about running out of space or forgetting to clear your card. Many models also allow you to “lock” specific clips to prevent them from being overwritten.
5. Parking Mode
Parking mode keeps an eye on your car even when it’s turned off. There are two common types:
- Motion Detection: Starts recording when movement is detected near your vehicle.
- Impact Detection (G-sensor): Activates if the camera senses a bump or impact.
Note: For parking mode to work, dash cams require a hardwire kit to draw power from your vehicle’s battery while parked. Most cameras sold on Amazon sell this piece separate.
6. GPS Functionality
GPS-enabled dash cams embed your location and speed data into your video recordings. This can be extremely helpful for proving your exact location or speed during an incident. Some models also offer GPS tracking via mobile apps for added peace of mind.
7. Number of Cameras: Single, Dual, or Triple Lens
- Single Lens Dash Cams: Record the road ahead only. Best for basic coverage.
- Dual Lens Dash Cams: Include a second camera for rear-view recording. Ideal for catching incidents from behind.
- Triple Lens Dash Cams: Add an interior-facing camera for monitoring passengers (great for rideshare drivers).
Choosing the right setup depends on how much coverage you want and where you park your vehicle.
8. With Screen or Screenless
Some dash cams come with built-in screens, while others skip them entirely for a more compact, stealthy design.
- With Screen: Allows you to review footage and adjust settings directly on the device. Typically larger cameras compared to compact screenless models.
- Without Screen: Smaller and less noticeable, but require connecting to your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to view or manage footage.
For screenless models, you’ll either need to:
- Use the companion app to download or delete clips (you must be in the vehicle with the vehicle on for the app to load)
- Remove the memory card and view it on a computer.
9. LTE Connectivity
This is one of the most important features regarding ease of use. If your dash camera does not have a screen, having the LTE capability is huge. Cameras like the Drone XC Dash Camera have LTE capability, meaning they connect to cell towers so you can pull up the app on your phone from anywhere and view live shots from your camera or view footage. There is always a subscription required for LTE cameras but they are relatively cheap and well worth the added capability (some plans as low as $84/year).
10. Warranty and Customer Support
A dash cam is an investment in your safety, so a solid warranty matters. Look for brands that offer at least a one-year warranty and have reliable customer support. Avoid ultra-cheap models from unknown sellers online—many of these require you to email overseas support teams with little chance of resolution. Choosing a reputable brand means you’ll get help when you need it, without jumping through hoops. If you purchase a dash camera direct from us, we deal with the warranty for you. No hassle.
Final Thoughts: Find the Right Dash Cam for Your Needs
Choosing the right dash cam doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the features that matter—from video quality and storage to parking mode and ease of use—you can find a camera that fits your lifestyle and your vehicle.
Check out dash cameras we carry or reach out if you have any questions.
