Dashcam Buying Guide: Essential Features to Consider

Embarking on the quest for the perfect dash cam can feel like navigating a technological maze. With an abundance of options, how do you pinpoint the one that best suits your needs?

Our Dashcam Buying Guide breaks down the essential features to consider, from recording quality and viewing angles to storage capacity and beyond. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, this article provides clarity, ensuring your selection not only enhances your driving experience but also offers robust protection on the road.

Get ready to arm yourself with the knowledge to make a smart, well-informed dash cam investment.

What are Dash Cams?

A dash cam is a compact, onboard camera that records the view through your vehicle's front windshield. It captures crucial footage in case of accidents or other incidents on the road.

Knowing the basic features and benefits of premium dash cams will help you make an informed purchasing decision.

Why do you need a dash cam?

Dash cams serve as your personal driving recorder, capturing events on the road that can help protect you legally and provide evidence in case of accidents.

Installing a car camera boosts your sense of security while driving. In incidents like a traffic collision, this little device documents crucial information which could be vital during insurance claims or traffic disputes.

Dash cams have grown popular among car owners because they also deter theft and capture memorable moments on long drives. Whether serving as your automobile camcorder or safeguarding against fraudulent claims, having one has become essential for modern drivers.

Benefits of premium dash cams

Upgrading to a premium dash cam offers enhanced features such as higher video resolution, wider field of view, and better low-light performance. These advanced capabilities provide clearer footage, making it easier to capture important details like license plates or road signs.

Additionally, premium dash cams often have built-in GPS for location tracking and G-sensors that can detect impacts and automatically save the recording.

Moreover, high-quality dash cams typically come with better build quality and longer warranties, ensuring durability and reliability in various weather conditions. Investing in a premium dash cam can ultimately offer greater peace of mind on the road, providing valuable evidence in case of accidents or disputes.

Dash Cam Features to Consider

Consider the field of view (FOV) when choosing a dash cam, as well as the number of cameras for optimal coverage. Video resolution and quality, audio recording option, and storage capacity are also key factors to consider when purchasing a dash cam.

Field of View (FOV)

When choosing a dashcam, consider the field of view (FOV). A wider FOV helps capture more of the road and surroundings. Look for options with at least 140 degrees, providing better coverage to record important details such as license plates and road signs.

High-quality footage relies on a good FOV, ensuring a clear and comprehensive recording of your journey. Opt for a wide-angle lens to maximize your dashcam's capabilities - this way you can have peace of mind knowing that everything in sight is being captured accurately.

Number of cameras

When choosing a dash cam, consider the number of cameras it offers. A dual-camera setup provides coverage for both the front and rear of your vehicle. This allows you to capture any incidents that occur behind your car, offering comprehensive protection on the road.

Some premium dash cams even come with four cameras, providing 360-degree coverage around your vehicle. This can be especially useful in parking lots or tight spaces where multiple angles are crucial for recording any potential accidents or vandalism.

Video resolution and quality

When choosing a dash cam, prioritize high video resolution for clear and detailed footage. Opt for a camera with at least 1080p HD resolution to capture important details like license plates and road signs.

Look for features such as night vision or HDR (High Dynamic Range) to ensure quality recordings in various lighting conditions.

Ensure that the chosen dash cam provides crisp and sharp video quality, especially when reviewing footage after an incident. This will make it easier for you to identify crucial information and share relevant evidence if needed.

Audio recording option

When considering the audio recording option for your dash cam, think about how it can complement the video footage. The addition of audio allows for a more comprehensive record of events, capturing not only visuals but also important sounds like honking horns or verbal exchanges.

Opting for a dash cam with an audio recording feature provides additional context to recorded incidents while driving. This can be particularly useful in providing evidence and clarity in the event of any disputes or accidents on the road.

Storage capacity

When considering a dash cam, it's vital to assess the storage capacity. A higher capacity allows for more footage to be stored before looping over old recordings. Look for models that support large capacity microSD cards, ideally 128GB or higher, to ensure ample space for continuous recording without the need for frequent manual file management.

A high storage capacity ensures that you have sufficient room to store important footage in case of an incident without constantly worrying about running out of space.

Mounting and Placement

When it comes to mounting your dash cam, there are different types of mounts to consider such as adhesive or suction. Knowing the ideal placement for optimal recording is essential for getting the best footage.

Types of mounts (adhesive vs suction)

When considering the types of mounts for your dash cam, it's important to weigh the advantages of adhesive and suction options. Here's a detailed breakdown of each type:

• Provides a secure and permanent attachment to your windshield.
• Offers a clean and inconspicuous installation, minimizing distractions.
• Ideal for those seeking a more discreet and integrated look.

• Allows for easy repositioning or removal, providing flexibility in placement.
• Suited for individuals who frequently switch vehicles or want the option to adjust the position of the dash cam.
• Great for those who prefer a mount that doesn't leave residue on the windshield.

Ideal placement for optimal recording

When considering the ideal placement for optimal recording of your dash cam footage, it is crucial to install the camera in a position that provides an unobstructed view of the road ahead.

Placing the dash cam behind the rearview mirror or near the top center of the windshield ensures a clear perspective without hindering your line of sight while driving.

Positioning the dash cam closer to the windshield reduces glare and reflection, resulting in high-quality recordings, especially during daytime drives. Additionally, mounting the camera centrally also allows it to capture both lanes of traffic effectively and provides a comprehensive field of view that includes potential blind spots.

Additional Features and Considerations

Consider the ease of transferring footage from the dash cam to your computer or mobile device. Also, think about the longevity and durability of the dash cam before making a purchase.

Transfer of footage

When choosing a dash cam, consider how easy it is to transfer footage from the camera to another device. Look for models that offer convenient methods such as Wi-Fi connectivity or quick file transfer via USB.

This feature allows you to easily access and share important recordings with law enforcement, insurance companies, or other parties when needed.

Ensure that the dash cam you choose has simple and efficient ways to transfer footage without any hassle, making it easier for you to use and manage the recordings effectively.

Longevity of the dash cam

When considering the longevity of your dash cam, it's essential to look for a durable and reliable model that can withstand various weather conditions and constant use. Look for features like heat resistance, sturdy construction, and a reliable warranty to ensure that your investment will last for years to come.

To maximize the lifespan of your dash cam, regularly check for firmware updates, keep it clean from dust and debris, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. Additionally, investing in a high-quality memory card will prevent data corruption and ensure smooth operation over time.

A well-maintained dash cam can provide peace of mind on the road while capturing clear footage whenever you need it.

Do you really need a dash cam?

Considering the potential benefits of a dash cam, it's essential to determine if it's necessary for your vehicle. Dash cams can provide crucial evidence in case of accidents, protect against insurance fraud, and promote safer driving habits.

Additionally, with the rise in road-related incidents, having a dash cam installed can offer peace of mind and security while out on the road. Whether for legal protection or added safety assurance, a dash cam could prove to be an invaluable investment for any car owner.

Incorporating a dash cam into your vehicle not only adds an extra layer of security but also provides a means to capture important footage that may otherwise go unseen. Whether it's recording scenic drives or documenting unforeseen events on the road, having a reliable dash cam can be more advantageous than you might think.

Conclusion

Armed with the knowledge of key features and what to look for, your journey to finding the ideal dash cam should now be clearer and more focused. Remember, the best dash cam for you is one that aligns with your specific driving habits, security needs, and budget. T

ake the time to assess the options, weigh the features against your priorities, and you're sure to make an investment that provides peace of mind and an extra set of eyes on the road.

Safe driving, and may your new dash cam serve you well on every trip!

Before you go, have you seen our collection of bestselling dash cams from Vantrue? If you haven't, click here.

FAQs

Can a dashcam work when my car is parked?

Yes, many car surveillance cameras have an auto cam feature that can record incidents even when your car is parked to keep an eye on it around the clock.

What are important features to look for in a good quality dashcam?

When shopping for a dashcam, look for essential features like clear video quality, reliable auto recording function as soon as your vehicle starts moving, and enough storage capacity to save footage from your incar camera.

Are all dashcams the same size?

No! Dashcams come in various sizes; some may be discreet like a small black box hidden behind your rearview mirror while others are larger with screens so you can view footage directly on the device.

How does installing a road cam make driving safer?

Having a car video recorder helps capture incidents on the road which can be helpful evidence if accidents occur and encourages safe driving knowing there's always an eyewitness.