Vehicle theft is a huge issue. Criminals are not only stealing your car, but the insurance company might also drop you if they believe it was stolen.
A dashboard camera can deter crime and provide evidence of an accident or theft to show what happened while your vehicle was in transit without requiring that you install any cameras on the inside of your vehicle.
It’s much easier to install these cameras than it is to install other types of security devices because there’s no need for wires or complicated installation. This article covers the best cameras to use, how to install them, and what benefits you will get from using a car security camera system.
Our guide will cover 5 different car security camera options in the market and how they can help deter crime and be a witness to accidents or theft, giving you peace of mind when driving on the road.
What are the 5 best car security dash cameras? (Dash Camera Options)
1. Vantrue N2 Pro Uber Dual Dash Cam – Best dual dash security camera system for cars
The Vantrue N2 is a small but powerful dash cam that offers discreet protection for your car. It has a front 170-degree viewing angle and a rear 140-degree viewing angle, making it one of the most versatile security cameras on the market. The N2 Pro Uber is also available in black or white, making it a versatile choice for any vehicle.
This small but powerful unit offers both stealthy protection while you’re driving or parked, as well as impressive regular dashcam features. The Vantrue N2 can be automatically switched to parking mode, where it will begin taking time-lapse photographs of anything coming within 33 feet of your vehicle.
In addition to in-car security camera features, the Vanture N2 has impressive regular dashcam features offered as well, like seamless loop technology that keeps the camera recording while you’re moving, up to 64 GB micro SD support, a front 170-degree viewing angle, a rear 140-degree viewing angle.
Whether parked or in motion, the Vantrue N2 provides affordable and convenient clear footage.
2. Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2
The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is a small, discreet model that records high-quality footage with its 1080p camera. It has easy-to-use controls and can be easily attached to your car using an adhesive mount. With just 2 inches high and 1¼ inches wide, the Mini 2 practically disappears on your windshield.
You’ll love how good the video quality is on this model—it records images with bright colors and bold highlights and shadows, making it perfect for capturing important moments while driving. The Mini 2 also has a magnetic attachment system that keeps the camera securely in place no matter where you go.
Unlike other models we’ve tested, which require the use of a separate external battery pack or hardwiring kit to work properly in cold climates, the Mini 2 comes equipped with a capacitor—meaning it’s powered by electricity rather than batteries—that should work normally in most places at most times of the year.
This is a great choice for those who want a simple, affordable dash cam that still delivers good video quality. It’s small and easy to use, with just two buttons, and it comes with an adhesive mount and two USB-A ports for more versatility. It’s also powered by a capacitor instead of a lithium-ion battery, making it less likely to run out of power mid-video recording or while driving.
Pros
- It’s small and unobtrusive, measuring just 2 inches high and 1¼ inches wide, making it one of the smallest dash cams we’ve tested.
- The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is sleek and simple: The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 has a streamlined look that reduces unsightly clutter, and its simplistic controls and screenless design help minimize potential distractions.
- 1080p resolution: The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2’s lone camera faces the front of the vehicle, recording high-quality video at 1080p resolution.
- Compact size: Measuring just 2 inches high and 1¼ inches wide, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is one of the smallest dash cams we’ve tested.
- Privacy conscious: Because it doesn’t have a display or any other visible features, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is privacy conscious – perfect for those who want to keep their dashcam discreetly hidden on their windshield
- With its single front-facing camera, it delivers 1080p resolution and good video quality compared with similar models.
- FOV is narrow but within ideal range: At 140 degrees, the FOV on the Mini 2 is on the narrow side, but still within our ideal range.
- Good night vision: The footage has good contrast and bright colors at night, without having to worry about glare from headlights or other bright lights.
- Easy to use: Is easy to use and comes with instructions explaining how to get started using it right away.
- Affordable: Is affordable, making it a great choice for people on a budget who want a dash cam that still provides good video quality.
- With just two buttons, it’s easy to operate and takes great video and photos.
- Easy to use: The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is easy to use, even if you’re not familiar with dash cams. Just aim it with the help of the phone app, adjust settings, and hit record!
- Great video and photos: With great video quality and photos that are sure to please, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is perfect for capturing those special moments in your life.
- Small size makes it perfect for cars: The small size of the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 means it won’t take up much space or take up a lot of your dashboard space when installed in your car.
- Syncs with phone app: Have access to saved videos/images and settings anywhere you have an internet connection – no need to carry around extra equipment!
- With its adhesive mount and two USB-A ports, it is more versatile than other dash cams on the market.
- The charger is more like a standard car charger: Comes with two separate, removable charging cables (one is 13 feet long, the other 5 feet long) to make it easier to power your dash cam.
- It’s powered by a capacitor rather than a lithium-ion battery: This makes it less likely to run out of power mid-video recording or while driving.
- Comes with an adhesive mount: Provides a wide range of adjustments and leaves just a small plastic disc on the windshield after installation.
- More versatile than other Garmin models: Powered by a capacitor instead of lithium-ion battery which makes it less likely to run out of power mid-video recording or while driving
- It’s rated to operate in temperatures between -4 °F and 140 °F, which should cover most places at most times of year.
- Durable and reliable: The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is both durable and reliable, even in harsh climates.
- It’s affordable: The Mini 2 is affordable without sacrificing quality or features.
Cons
- Limited display: The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 does not have a display, which means you need to use the Garmin smartphone app to view videos and adjust settings.
- It doesn’t come with any extra features or add-ons: Unlike our other picks, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 doesn’t offer built-in GPS tracking (nor the ability to add it). This might be a downside if you’re looking for a dash cam with additional features, but it may appeal to those who want a simple and cheap option.
- Harder to read license plates: The Mini 2 has difficulty reading license plates at night, compared with other models that have better video quality.
- The adhesive mount is not magnetic: The adhesive mount that comes with the Mini 2 does not include a magnetic attachment, which some people may find convenient.
3. Nextbase 522GW
The Nextbase 522GW is a top-of-the-line dash camera that offers excellent video quality, a large touch screen for easy navigation, Amazon Alexa capability, and an SOS Emergency mode.
The camera’s app enables you to easily view all your clips and save or review them by just connecting the 522GW to your smartphone.
Additionally, the 622GW supports What3Words – the innovative global system one can use to share your exact location with first responders by just giving them three words.
Pros
- It is also affordable and easy to use.
- Excellent video quality: The Nextbase 522GW offers excellent video quality that could be useful in cases of accidents or other incidents.
- Large touch screen: The Nextbase 522GW has a large touch screen that makes it easy to view all your clips and save them on your phone.
- SOS Emergency mode: The Nextbase 522GW has an SOS Emergency mode that could potentially save your life in case of an accident or other emergency situation.
- Supports What3Words: This dash camera supports What3Words, which makes it easy for first responders to know where you were at the time of the incident by just giving them three words (for example, “parking lot”).
- Its viewing angle is 140 degrees, making it perfect for capturing photos and videos from all angles. Plus, its Alexa voice assistant makes it easy to control your camera with your voice.
- Quality video and photos: With 4K video quality at 30fps and 1080p videos at 120fps, the Nextbase 522GW will produce high-quality footage that you’ll be happy with.
- Versatile camera: The Nextbase 522GW can be used for both photography and videography, making it a versatile choice for any occasion or situation.
- Emergency SOS support: If there’s ever an emergency and you need to call for help, the Nextbase 522GW has emergency SOS support built in so that someone can find you quickly.
Cons
- Nextbase 522GW is pricier than some other options available on the market.
- The touch screen can be difficult to use: The touch screen can be difficult to use, and it may not be responsive enough for some users.
- The app can be confusing: The app can be confusing and hard to navigate, making it difficult to view all your clips or save them in a convenient way.
- Not compatible with What3Words: Although the Nextbase 622GW supports What3Words, it is not compatible with this innovative global system for sharing location information.
- Not as many features as other cameras: The camera does not have as many features as other cameras, such as an integrated GPS or emergency SOS support.
4. Thinkware F800 Pro – Professional Dash Camera system
The F800 Pro has a sleek and smart design that makes it difficult to detect, ensuring your footage is always safe. It captures video in 2K QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution and has GPS and emergency SOS capabilities.
The Thinkware app connectivity issue isn’t really an issue because the footage can be easily monitored online or saved to the cloud for easy access later on.
The camera is also very heat resistant, meaning you can take it anywhere without worrying about damaging it or losing data due to extreme temperatures.
The Thinkware F800 Pro is a great choice for a dash camera because it offers excellent video quality, GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities, and a sleek design. The camera is easy to use and comes with a 2-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Pros
- This camera system has many advantages, including its smart and sleek design, full HD front and rear recording, presence of GPS and emergency SOS, as well as its ability to perform well even in low-light conditions.
- Great video quality: With a resolution of 2K QHD (2560 x 1440), the Thinkware F800 Pro produces high-quality videos that are sure to please drivers.
- GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities: The Thinkware F800 Pro comes with both GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities, making it easy to wirelessly connect to your car or other devices.
- Sleek design: The Thinkware F800 Pro is a sleek and professional-looking dash cam system that will look great in any car.
- Portability: TheThinkware F800 Pro is compact enough to be taken on the go, but still has enough features to satisfy drivers who want more than just a simple dash cam system.
- Professional installation required?: No, the Thinkware F800 Pro can be installed by anyone with some basic knowledge of cars and electronics installation
- Thinkware F800 Pro isn’t expensive, making it an affordable option for anyone looking for a professional dash cam system
- Professional dash camera system: The Thinkware F800 Pro is a high-quality and professional dash camera system that is perfect for use in car accidents, police investigations, and more.
- Comes with a warranty: Comes with a 2-year warranty from the manufacturer that covers defects in materials or workmanship.
Cons
- The design may not be appealing to everyone and the software is not great. However, the video quality is still excellent and it comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
- Short battery life: The camera has a short battery life of 350 shots.
5. Miofive 4K Dash Cam
The Miofive is a top-of-the-line dash cam that offers 4K video recording, 64GB of integrated storage, and fast 5GHz Wi-Fi for transferring footage to your phone. The camera has a 140-degree viewing angle, making it perfect for capturing all sides of an event or scene.
The Miofive also comes with integrated GPS and a screen that is both 2in IPS units – meaning they offer excellent picture quality even in low light conditions! Finally, the Miofive has an unnoticeable windscreen mount that will keep your camera safe while you’re driving.
The Miofive 4K Dash Cam is a great choice for drivers who want quality footage of their driving adventures. It features 4K video recording, a 140-degree viewing angle, and 64GB of storage. It also has fast 5GHz Wi-Fi for transferring footage to your phone or computer.
Additionally, the Miofive has a parking mode with an optional hardwiring kit to keep your footage safe while you’re not driving.
Pros
- The Miofive 4K Dash Cam has great video quality: With its 4K video recording, the Miofive 4K Dash Cam is sure to provide exceptional footage of your driving adventures.
- The viewing angle is 140 degrees: You’ll be able to capture stunning footage from all angles with the Miofive 4K Dash Cam.
- It comes with integrated GPS: So you can track your journey in detail as you go along, without having to worry about losing any footage along the way.
- It has 64GB of storage: Enough space to store all your footage and photos from your amazing driving adventures!
- It has a windscreen mount that’s unnoticeable: You won’t have any trouble capturing those stunning moments while keeping your hands on the wheel – thanks to the windscreen mount that’s unnoticeable!
- It has a premium feel, a good smartphone application, and 64GB of storage.
- Fast 5GHz Wi-Fi: The Miofive comes with fast 5GHz Wi-Fi so you can easily transfer footage to your phone or computer.
- Parking mode with an optional hardwiring kit: You can also use parking mode with an optional hardwiring kit to keep your footage safe while you’re not driving.
- Low price point: The Miofive is affordable compared to other 4K Dash Cameras on the market, making it a great choice for drivers who want quality footage without spending too much money
Cons
- Large 4K video files: The Miofive 4K dash cam has large 4K video files, which may be difficult to store or transfer.
- Needs an optional hardwiring kit for parking mode: The Miofive 4K dash cam needs an optional hardwiring kit for parking mode, which is not always convenient.
- Low battery life: The Miofive 4K Dash Cam only lasts for about two hours before it needs to be charged again.
How do you evaluate a car security camera?
Installation
Installing a car security camera is a simple process that usually requires only a suction cup or adhesive mount and a power cable. To install the camera, you will need to find a fuse box and wire the camera to the battery.
The best place to install the camera is high up and in the center of the windshield. The camera should be easy to see and reach, and should not obstruct your view.
Video quality
To evaluate the video quality of a car security camera, you should read reviews to see what other users have experienced. You can also look for features that are important to you, such as night vision or a wide viewing angle. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, compare the prices to find the best value for your needs.
Audio quality
To evaluate the audio quality of a car security camera, you need to consider the type of sensor the camera has, the recording options available, and the audio output.
Field of view
To evaluate a car security camera, you need to consider the field of view. A camera with a wide field of view will be able to see more of the surrounding area, while a camera with a narrow field of view will only be able to see a small portion of the surrounding area.
You also need to consider the resolution of the camera. A higher resolution will allow you to see more detail in the footage, while a lower resolution will make it more difficult to see what is going on in the footage.
Night vision
To evaluate a car security camera’s night vision, you need to consider the camera’s sensor type, resolution, and field of view. The sensor type is important because it determines how well the camera can see in low-light conditions.
The resolution is important because it determines how clear the image will be. The field of view is important because it determines how much of the area around the car can be seen.
Battery life
When considering how to evaluate a car security camera, one of the most important factors to look at is the battery life. Car security cameras typically have very short battery lives, around 30 minutes on average.
However, you can extend the battery life by plugging the camera into a USB or 12V supply. This is especially useful for remote parking lots without power.
Ease of use
The car security camera is designed to be easy to use. The wide-angle lens captures more of the scene, making it easier to identify potential threats. The camera can be controlled with an app and supports voice control.
Parking mode can be enabled to avoid obstructing your view. The camera can also be connected to other devices to share video. Additionally, the camera can be used for crash detection.
Warranty
When choosing a car security camera, it is important to look for one with a warranty. This way, if the camera malfunctions or is damaged, you will be covered. It is also a good idea to choose a camera that records in high definition, has night vision, and includes driver assistance warnings.
Why do you need a car security camera?
1. To have a visual record of events
A car security camera can be useful in a number of ways. Firstly, it can be used to record accidents or incidents. This can be helpful in proving innocence in the event of an accident. Secondly, a car security camera can be used to monitor the driving habits of others. This can be useful in cases of hit-and-run accidents. Finally, a car security camera can also be used to monitor a car’s surroundings for potential threats.
2. To deter crime
A car security camera can help deter crime by recording footage of the surrounding area. This footage can be used to identify criminals and help law enforcement catch them. Car security cameras can also be used to deter crime by recording what is happening inside and outside of the car. This footage can be used to identify criminals and help law enforcement catch them.
3. To monitor driving habits
A car security camera can help monitor driving habits by recording video of the road ahead. This can help drivers avoid potential dangers, as they can be alerted to potential hazards before they occur. Additionally, dash cams can be used to monitor driving habits, as they can record data such as speed and braking. This data can be used to improve driving habits and make roads safer for everyone.
4. To improve driver safety
A car security camera can improve driver safety by providing features like excellent driver assistance and voice control. These features help to ensure that drivers are able to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. Additionally, car security cameras can provide an extra set of eyes on the road, helping to spot potential hazards or accidents before they happen.
5. To provide evidence in the event of an accident
A car security camera, or dash cam, can provide evidence of an accident or incident. The camera should have a GPS system that notifies emergency services of the location of the camera. This can be helpful in providing authorities with information about what happened and who was involved.
6. To catch hit-and-run drivers
A car security camera can be helpful in catching hit-and-run drivers. By having a dash cam, drivers can have an objective eyewitness to an accident or other incident. This can help determine fault and responsibility in car accidents. In addition, dash cams can also be used to record a crash, hit-and-run, or police misconduct.
7. To prevent insurance fraud
A car security camera can help to prevent insurance fraud in several ways. By recording the outer and inner areas of the car, it can provide evidence of any damage that may have been caused. It can be used to deter insurance fraudsters from targeting a particular car. Finally, if a claim is made, the footage from the camera can be used to support or refute the claim.
8. To capture scenic drives
A car security camera is a great way to capture scenic drives. The camera can be used to capture footage of the driver and the surrounding environment. Dash cams typically have a large memory card to store the maximum amount of video. Many dash cams have a built-in screen that you can use to review footage. Some dashcams can also be used as GPS devices.
Conclusion
The best car security cameras are easy to use and have a clear menu. They are also small and can be attached to the windshield. We tested them under bright sunlight and at night, on highways and suburban streets. We played back footage on a computer to make sure we were happy with our pick before buying it.
FAQs
Is it worth having a security camera in your car?
Yes, a car security camera is worth every money. Security cameras can help protect you from theft, vandalism, and other crimes. Car cameras are easy to install and are generally affordable, making them a good investment for safety and protection. You can also use car cameras for other purposes such as monitoring your child while they’re driving or keeping an eye on elderly family members who may need assistance but may be reluctant to ask for help themselves.
What is the best car security camera for night vision?
When it comes to car security cameras, there are a few things that you should look for. One of the most important factors is night vision; the best car security cameras should be able to record clear footage even in low-light conditions. The Vantrue N2 Pro Uber Dashcam is a small and powerful dashcam with excellent night vision capabilities.
What is the best wireless car security camera system for vehicle vandalism?
The best wireless car security camera system for vehicle vandalism is the Owlcam. The Owlcam has two live cameras and AI surveillance alerts that always stay on. The Owlcam system provides complete protection at all times, even while driving. The Owlcam has a 4G LTE connection that keeps you up to date on what’s going on with your car even when you’re not driving.
The Owlcam also has AI surveillance and alerts that will detect unsafe or risky activity. The Presto wireless car security camera system is another great option. The Presto wireless car security camera system supports 4k resolution footage and wide-angle video. The Presto wireless car security camera system is wireless and compatible with mobile phones.
What are the best car security cameras with parking modes?
The best car security cameras have a number of features that make them ideal for use in parking modes. These features include night vision, recording on the loop, and a G-Sensor Lock. These cameras are also good for heat resistance and have better battery timing than some other types of cameras. However, they can’t read license plates.
What is the best car security camera for GPS tracking?
The best car security camera for GPS tracking is the Thinkware Car Security Camera. This camera is sleek and smart with excellent performance in low light conditions. The camera has built-in WiFi and GPS, as well as super night vision. The camera is excellent for recording in full HD.
The Thinkware car security camera is a good option for those looking for a camera that can track vehicles, but there are some drawbacks. The connectivity issues with the app can be frustrating, and the camera is not very heat resistant. Overall, the Thinkware car security camera is a good option for those looking for a camera that can track vehicles.
Why can’t you install a security camera inside your car?
Installing a security camera inside your car can be difficult and may require special wiring or batteries. The camera must be constantly connected to a power supply and a wifi network. If the car’s battery dies, the camera may not start up quickly.
Installing a security camera inside your car is not as easy as it sounds. You’ll need to find a way to connect it to your home wifi network. Additionally, the power and network requirements make installing a security camera in your car, not a good idea.