Subj : The best dash cam 2025 To : All From : TechnologyDaily Date : Tue Oct 28 2025 13:30:08 The best dash cam 2025 Date: Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:25:54 +0000 Description: Searching for the best dash cam for your car? We've rounded up the finest 4K, front-and-rear and budget choices around. FULL STORY ====================================================================== Weve tested approximately 50 dash cams in real driving conditions including over 15 just this year and that number keeps growing. We can tell you that quality varies wildly, but fundamentally a dash cams most important job is simple: capture and safely store clear footage when it counts. Every model here has passed that test, and many go beyond with offer useful features, such as GPS, always-on parking modes, and app connectivity. Based on our tests, the Viofo A329 is the closest thing to a complete dash cam in 2025. When we reviewed 4K 60fps footage recorded during our tests, we found it clear in all conditions, which helped the flagship model earn a five-star rating. For buyers on a tighter budget, however, we highly rate the tiny Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 . We're confident you'll find the best dash cam for your needs and budget, below. And if you're not sure how to select the right model, check out our buying advice further below, along with the glossary of a number of in-depth articles covering dash cam FAQs. You won't find more comprehensive information about dash cams anywhere else. Read more Why you can trust TechRadar's choices Collectively, our expert dash cam reviewers has decades of experience testing the latest models, and 2025 has been our most fruitful year for reviews. When we review a dash cam, we go through the process as if we had bought it and were fitting it into our own vehicle, fixing the front camera to the windshield and additional rear / cabin cameras where available. If a dash cam can be hardwired, we'll do that too such models usually offer additional features when hardwired. All models are tested in daylight and nighttime conditions, at a range of driving speeds and over the course of a few weeks. We then assess the quality of footage at the various resolutions and frame rates possible, and report our findings, together with our experience fitting the dash cam, ease of use and connectivity features. Our aim is to help you buy a dash cam with confidence, based on our honest feedback. We highlight the pros and cons of every option, to give you the full picture. Having tested so many models, there are many that haven't made the cut in this guide we've included additional options in an Also Consider section, below. TechRadar has been dedicated to providing honest, impartial and reliable feedback and buying advice on the latest technology since 2008. For more information about our commitment to editorial independence, our IPSO regulation and the standards we uphold, check out our About Us page. ^ Back to the top The best dash cam in 2025 Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best dash cams in our list. We've tested each one comprehensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted. The best all-rounder dash cam Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Future) 1. Viofo A329 The best all-rounder dash cam Video quality: 4K | Viewing angle: 140 degrees | GPS tracker: Yes | Memory: MicroSD card up to 512GB / SSD up to 4TB (not included) Excellent quality 4K 60fps video Quality design and build adds value Supplementary rear camera is a boon Compatible with external SSDs Quite a lot of wiring to install A bit bulkier than some rival models High purchase price Cable connectors are brilliant but really tight to undo Viofo A329 sample footage Buy it if: You want superb 4K footage: Having crisp and clear 4K 60fps video can make all the difference in the event of an incident or insurance claim. The quality of the rear-facing camera impresses, too. You like front and rear coverage: A two-channel, setup keeps all bases covered. And with the cameras being hardwired into a vehicle, you get powerful features. Don't buy it if: You want an easy setup: Theres a lot of cabling to plumb in and, while the connectors are excellent quality, they are hard to undo if youve plugged the ends in the wrong way around. You just need the basics: The Viofo A329 Dash Cam's 4K video, rear camera support and various features might be more than you need when a cheaper stripped-back dash cam could be sufficient for you. It might be expensive, but the two-camera Viofo A329 Dash Cam bundle is worth the outlay. Not only do you get crisp 4K video up to 60fps from the main camera that is able to capture fine details at speed, the rear-facing unit is a great supplement with decent 2K footage of its own. We also found that footage captured after dark was equally impressive than our clips taken on dull and gray days, with both front and rear cameras adept at picking out little details, such as license plates and road signs. All of that data can be stored onto micro SD with generous 512GB capacity compatibility, or SSD up to 4TB. Files can be quickly loaded to Viofo's app, which by the way is a dream to use. Initial setup will test your skills (and patience) there is more work involved in getting it all wired in but those who persist will enjoy the fruit of their labor being rewarded with a premium performer. If money is no object, then you'll struggle to find a dash cam with better quality video. Read our in-depth Viofo A329 review ^ Back to the top The best budget dash cam Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Future) 2. Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 The best budget dash cam Video quality: 1080p | Viewing angle: 140 degrees | GPS tracker: No | Memory: MicroSD card (not included) Tidy, compact design High-quality footage Polarizing lens Simple interface Minor upgrade No GPS No screen MicroSD not included Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 sample footage Buy it if: You want a hidden dash cam: Compact proportions mean the Mini 3 can just about hide behind your rear-view mirror, so there's no impact on forward visibility. You prefer a simple setup: Garmin has kept the Mini 3 simple to set up and use, meaning it's a reliable tool thats easy to install and runs faithfully in the background. Don't buy it if: You already own the Dash Cam Mini 2: A polarizing filter and landscape redesign are the only upgrades to speak of here, so there isn't a case for upgrading. You need 4K video footage: The Mini 3 is limited to 1080p Full HD. Youll need to spend more on a premium model for higher resolution video. If you want a small, simple dash cam to set and forget, we recommend the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3. In our tests, its compact design could be easily hidden behind the rear-view mirror, while its simple interface made it easy to set up and use. It also captured high-quality Full HD video with HDR. Granted, the same can also be said of the Dash Cam Mini 2 , and if youre already an owner of that device, theres not really a case for upgrading. Like the Mini 2, you dont get GPS or a display here. Control is by way of the Garmin Drive app, which works well for changing settings and reviewing saved footage. Whats new is a landscape design, as well as a built-in polarizing filter. The latter is designed to reduce windshield reflections, although to our eyes, our review footage looked pretty similar to video from the Mini 3. Still, if youre buying your first dash cam, or looking for a smaller one, the Dash Cam Mini 3 gets all the right things right. Read our in-depth Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 review ^ Back to the top The best smart dash cam Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Future) 3. Nextbase iQ The best next-gen dash cam with smart features Video quality: 1080p/1440p/2160p (front) / 1080p/1440p (cabin) / 1440p (rear) | Viewing angle: 140 degrees (front) / 180 degrees (cabin) / 140 degrees (rear) | GPS tracker: Yes | Memory: microSD / cloud Comprehensive one-stop solution Smart features are very impressive Nicely designed and well made Full-fat feature set might be too much for some Free subscription edition lacks all the features Subscription options will add extra cost Nextbase iQ sample footage Buy it if: You want an all-in-one dash cam: With a full suite of clever safety and security features, the Nextbase iQ is the complete dash cam package. You want a future-proof model: Firmware updates are in the pipeline which will add additional functionality to the iQs already impressive arsenal. Don't buy it if: You dont need a complex camera: If you only want to capture video of the road, there are simpler dash cam options for a lot less money. You want a subscription-free dash cam: Basic modes are free, but youll need to pay subscription fees for the full set of Nextbase iQ features. A smart surveillance camera for your car, the Nextbase iQ is as feature-packed as dash cams come. Available in 1K, 2K and 4K variants, its a premium solution with a suite of connected skills. That includes parking assistance, a voice-activated Witness Mode and the ability to check in on your vehicle via the Nextbase iQ app, as well as GPS, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. All three versions include an interior camera, and theres an optional rear-facing unit. You will need a paid subscription to get the full benefit of its abilities, which means the iQ can quickly become a costly bit of kit. But our tests found that its also an impressive one. Setup proved simple in our review, while the app made it easy to access its many features. Footage and audio from our 4K review unit was predictably excellent, too. Because powered is delivered directly from the cars battery, the system remains active even when the engines off. It will be overkill for many road users, but if you want a complete, all-in-one camera to monitor your car at all times, the Nextbase iQ is as clever as they come. Too expensive? Nextbase recently unveiled the Piqo , which is a simpler and much cheaper sibling with light versions of the iQ's smart features. Read our in-depth Nextbase iQ review ^ Back to the top The best cheap 4K dash cam Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Future) 4. Miofive S1 Ultra The best next-gen dash cam with smart features Video quality: 4K 30fps | Viewing angle: 140 degrees (front) | GPS tracker: Yes | Memory: microSD / cloud Great 4K footage with little noise Fast video transfer with 5GHz Wi-Fi Integrated GPS Frame rate limited to 30 fps, even at Full HD Windscreen mount could be better AI functions feel unnecessary Miofive S1 Ultra sample footage Buy it if: You want 4K video for less: 4K footage is sharp, and suffers from very little noise too. GPS is a must: Not many dash cams at this price include GPS which adds key data to recordings and can be invaluable proving when and how an incident occurred. Don't buy it if: You want high frame rates: Whatever the resolution, the S1's video frame rates are capped at 30fps. Higher frame rates like 60fps can capture smoother footage. You'd rather avoid AI alerts: The S1's AI features feel superfluous, such as its driver alerts and warnings about supposed harsh driving. You can pick up the Miofive S1 Ultra for well under $100 / 100. That's impressive when you consider that it's a 4K dash cam equipped with GPS and a 5GHz Wi-Fi connection for fast data transfers. That's a rare combo at this price point, especially given how impressive we found the quality of its video footage in testing: with sharp detail and admirable noise control in low light, this is the real deal. If there's one thing we'd improve based on our review, it would be the ability to record at 60fps even if just in 1080p Full HD. Sadly the S1 is capped at 30fps. But otherwise, the S1 is hard to fault. It's not the smallest dash cam around, but we found it easy to set up and get going. You also have option to bundle it with Miofive's rear dash cam (2K and 4K options are availability) for full coverage. Considering all of that, we think this is the best 4K dash cam you can get for less than $100 / 100. Read our in-depth Miofive S1 review ^ Back to the top Best 360 degree Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Future) Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Future) 5. 70mai Dash Cam 4K Omni Best omni-directional front dash cam Video quality: Front 4K 3840 x 2160p 60fps / Rear 2K 1920 x 1080p 30fps | Viewing angle: 146 degrees front / 130 degrees rear | GPS tracker: Yes | Memory: MicroSD up to 512GB, Cloud Upgraded to shoot 4K video Beefier sensor and battery tech A host of improved features and functions Front and rear cameras plus 360-degree front lens App tends to feel like the weakest link Chunky design might not appeal on smaller windshields Advanced parking options require a hardwire Needs to be started via the app each time 70mai Dash Cam 4K Omni sample footage Buy it if: You'd like wide coverage: In addition to the 4K rotating camera with a full 360 degree range, there's a bundle which includes a rear camera. You want 4K quality: The 4K Omni updates the original model with better quality 4K video and a high-resolution rear camera. Don't buy it if: You don't vlog: The unique 360 rotating trick is neat but it's a single camera, not a dual front and cabin type. That cabin view then, feels clearly designed for vlogging. A simple dash cam will do: A number of the 4K Omni's features and functions could be superfluous do check the specification before buying splashing out. 70mai updated its unique Dash Cam Omni with a pricier 4K model, the 70mai Dash Cam 4K Omni. Its party trick is its front camera with a 146-degree field of view which can rotate a full 360-degrees for both front and cabin views (though not at the same time it's a single camera). With the 4K Omni, you can record journeys from out the front, or rotate it to film inside the cabin of your vehicle cue your in-car karaoke. Video resolution has been bumped up from 1080p up to 60fps to 4K up 60fps, while the sensor is beefier too complete with 70mais new after dark tool called Lumi Vision, so low light footage is crisper than before, which is impressive given the Dash Cam Omni was already a decent low-light performer. New features include AI Motion Detection 2.0, and there's now a second rear camera available in the package, providing dual-channel HDR capability that rear camera shoots in 1080p resolution. The front camera has a larger screen, beefier Wi-Fi performance and more efficient battery. Overall, the 4K Omni is a decent upgrade and worth forking out the extra for. With a fun UI and bulbous design, it's also unlike other dash cams, even if it's anything but inconspicuous. Voice control works a treat you can command the camera to rotate for a cabin view when the mood takes, without needing to fiddle with the camera itself. This 4K version irons out many of the issues we had with the original model, without losing the fun factor. Note you'll need to buy a 4G hardware kit if you want to backup to the cloud automatically. Read our in-depth 70mai Dash Cam 4K Omni review ^ Back to the top Best for older cars without an infotainment system Image 1 of 5 (Image credit: Alistair Charlton) Image 2 of 5 (Image credit: Alistair Charlton) Image 3 of 5 (Image credit: Alistair Charlton) Image 4 of 5 (Image credit: Alistair Charlton) Image 5 of 5 (Image credit: Alistair Charlton) 6. Garmin DriveCam 76 Best for older cars without an infotainment system Video quality: 1080p | Viewing angle: 140 degrees | GPS tracker: Yes | Memory: 16GB microSD (dash cam, included), microSD (not included) Great user interface Better navigation than a smartphone Lots of useful connected features Expensive Poor dash cam video stability Notification system feels like overkill Garmin DriveCam 76 sample footage Buy it if: Your vehicle has no infotainment system: With features like mapping and forward collision warnings, the DriveCam 76 is ideal for older vehicles without such systems as standard. You want an all-in-one system: Combining a dash cam and a sat nav system means fewer devices mounted to your windshield, giving you a clearer view. Don't buy it if: You have a small windshield: Because its larger than many dash cams, the DashCam 76 can feel like an obstruction in vehicles with shallow windshields. Youre on a tight budget: Its multiple talents mean the DriveCam 76 demands a fairly high price. If you wont use all of its features, youll find better value in standalone cameras. Combining a dash cam and a sat nav, the Garmin DriveCam 76 is a feature-packed tool for vehicles without an infotainment system. In testing, we found its 7-inch display intuitive to use. It makes Garmins rich mapping visuals easy to follow, while navigation is clear and well-timed, complemented by live traffic updates when paired with your smartphones data connection. The unit itself is much larger than many rivals, though, which can make it tricky to place without obstructing the drivers view. Helpfully, both the display angle and camera lens are adjustable, so you can find the right position between road and driver. Full HD footage is shot in HDR at 30fps, delivering balanced exposure and enough detail to make number plates legible. That said, we found that video suffers from noticeable stabilization wobble. This distortion doesnt reduce the detail, but footage is worse than from other Garmin dash cams. Youll also find better value dash cams if you dont need features such as smartphone notifications and weather updates. But if you want a dash cam with added smarts, this is a great choice. Read our in-depth Garmin DriveCam 76 review ^ Back to the top Specs comparison Model Video resolution Viewing angle GPS Memory Viofo A329 4K 60p 140 degrees Yes microSD / SSD Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 1080p 140 degrees No microSD Nextbase iQ 1k, 2k or 4k options (front) / 1k or 2k (cabin) / 2k (rear) 140 degrees (front) / 180 degrees (cabin) / 140 degrees (rear) Yes microSD / cloud Miofive S1 4K 30p 140 degrees Yes microSD 70mai Dash Cam Omni 1080p 140 degrees Yes eMMC built-in 32GB / 64GB or 128GB Garmin DriveCam 76 1080p 140 degrees Yes 16GB microSD (dash cam, included) Also consider We've reviewed a huge range of superb dash cams and plenty didn't make the six strong list above. Below are the best of the rest, all of which also come highly recommended. Garmin Dash Cam X310 : Garmin's best-ever dash cam is small, easy to use and records sharp 4K video with HDR. It's also packed with features, including GPS and a 2.4in touchscreen plus it can be accessed remotely via the Garmin Drive app (if you pay for a subscription). It's not a huge upgrade from the Dash Cam 67W , but for most people this will feel like a top-tier product that is built to last. Nextbase Piqo : If you like the sound of the Nextbase iQ but can't quite stomach the price and rolling subscription costs, the Piqo is the perfect low-cost alternative from the same brand. It offers 'Lite' versions of many of the iQ's smart features, in an attractive and compact package. RedTiger F77 : Shooting some of the sharpest 4K video you'll see from front and rear cams with a wider-than-most 170 degree field of view the Redtiger F77 is a top drawer dash cam, let down only by a fiddly file upload process. Vantrue E360 : If you want a true 360-degree dash cam, the Vantrue E360 dash cam is the package. Being able to break from the confines of a vehicle to double up as a regular 360 camera, it's a big box of tricks. Features include 5.2K 30fps video through, dual-lenses each with a 210-degree field of view that together produce a 360-degree video in playback, complete with an additional rear camera. There are various bundles, including one with a tripod for using outside a vehicle. 70mai Dash Cam 4K T800 : The Omni might be 70mai's unique dash cam, but the 4K T800 is its comprehensive flagship which we awarded a full five star rating. It's a complete triple camera setup with front, cabin and rear cameras, complete with 24 / 7 parking mode an intuitive app. Nextbase 622GW : With 4K video resolution, an excellent Night Vision mode, a built-in polarizing filter plus image stabilization, the 622GW delivers excellent quality footage that makes it easy to pick out number plates in all conditions. The addition of Alexa voice control and What3Words emergency geolocation are welcome added bonuses. Thinkware X1000 : Another option that feels unique from all the other choices here (see below). It has a bigger touchscreen and easy to use interface, meaning you don't really need to rely on a companion app like other options. It can be purchased as a dual camera bundle, however it lacks built-in GPS. Miofive Dual Dash Cam : If you like the sound of the Miofive S1, our pick for a sub $100 / 100 4K dash cam, you can find an S1 'Ultra' version that's a dual camera setup, or indeed Miofive's high-end model, the Dual Dash Cam, another five-star rated dash cam. Viofo A229 Pro : It's not particularly cheap and there's a fair amount of wiring to install, but the A229 Pro offers complete coverage with a trio of cameras. It's a smart choice if you want total peace of mind while driving. The Thinkware X1000 dash cam and it's huge screen (Image credit: Future) How to choose the best dash cam for you Key features to look out for Ideally pick a 4K model Half speed 60fps frame rates can pick out details better than 30fps GPS records speed and location date, which could be crucial evidence The best dash cams can have anything from one to four cameras. Single camera dash cams record the outside view from your windscreen, while dual dash cams typically add a rear facing camera, An additional cabin camera is especially useful for ride-share drivers like taxis and carpool karaoke divas. Professional drivers clocking up the miles, particularly trucks, can add an additional viewpoint from the outside of the vehicle. Video resolution Video resolution is a key consideration when choosing a dash cam, as explained below. Most of the best dash cams in 2025 record footage in 4K, which cheaper models could top out at just 1080p. We recommend 4K models which should easily pull out crucial details such as number plates, even if those files sure are bigger. Video frame rates Video frame rates are also important. Most dash cams can record at 30fps, which is fine for reviewing footage at full speed, but the best models can capture action at a smoother 60fps, more often than not in reduced 1080p resolution. 60fps gives you the option to slow down footage after the fact, making it easier to pick up details at half-speed. We're now starting to see 4K 60fps recording in select premium models, such as the Viofo A329. Other models, such as the Nextbase 622GW, also feature digital image stabilization, which helps to smooth out footage on bumpy roads. We've done the tests check out this in-depth article: Is frame rate important for dash cam footage? I compared 30fps and 60fps clips from a 4K camera to find out. Features There are also a wealth of features to consider, including a touchscreen display, a companion app, GPS, parking surveillance, voice control, sat nav and what3words to name but a few. If you drive an older car without an infotainment system, then its worth getting a dash cam with sat nav, but theres little point if your car already has sat nav. GPS location data is handy when recording incidents, while some even include what3words geolocation data which offers the most precise way of pinpointing your vehicle and super handy should you become stricken. (Image credit: Future) Getting started with a dash cam Getting started with a dash cam Position the dash cam so it doesn't block your view of the road Check for automated safety features that keep footage safe, such as G-sensor Hardwiring is necessary for always-on features like parking mode The overall experience installing, getting started and ease of use on the go varies wildly from dash cam to dash cam. For the most part, dash cams mount somewhere along a car's front windscreen. Of course, wherever you place your dash cam must not block your view of the road. The advent of rear-facing cameras (or complete kits that contain both front and rear) require a little extra installation, as these often involve cables that run from front to back. Expect some fiddly work involving the car's headliner to get these fitted correctly. Dash cams record usually record until the card is full, at which point loop recording kicks in, continually recording over the oldest clips. Some record shorter clips in order to prevent the card from filling. After years of testing, I know where to install a dash cam follow my 5 tips for your perfect placement While older models typically required the user to manually save or tag the appropriate clip in the event of an accident, new G-Sensor-based incident detection technology has taken over, and now takes care of this automatically. There are also dash cams that boast additional features that, just like any other technology, translate to a higher asking price. In addition to better video quality like 4K, night vision and built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for easy file transfer may also be included. A rise in popularity of voice control has also made its way over to the humble dash cam, so expect Alexa integration and other such voice-activated technology at the very pinnacle of the range. Numerous parking modes are also possibilities. These use a time-lapse feature as a surveillance function to capture details of those irksome car park prangs when you're off running errands. Frequently asked questions (Image credit: Future) Is it worth having a dash cam? A dash cam can prove innocence in collision and false speeding fines Some dash cams can alert emergency services, with location data Those with a parking mode can also monitor your unmanned vehicle Yes, absolutely. Some drivers might not like the idea of a camera constantly monitoring their vehicle, but some models of dash cam (like the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3) are compact and subtle enough to almost disappear behind the central rear view mirror. In other words, once they are up and running you soon forget about them; they just sit there, quietly keeping an eye out, ready to save footage if youre caught in an accident. If the worst were to happen, and you need to prove your innocence, the dash cams footage could do exactly that. This footage can also be set to include your speed, along with the time and date to help reinforce the validity of your evidence if blame is disputed by the other party. As well as monitoring the road ahead, dash cams can be used to record out of the rear windscreen too, recording footage if you are unfortunate enough to be rear-ended by another motorist. Even if you're not directly involved in a collision, dash cams can still be useful. Many have a button for quickly saving the last few seconds of video. That way, if you see something ahead that you think needs recording, like an accident between two other vehicles, an example of bad driving, or something else noteworthy, you can provide that evidence to whoever might need it. Another useful feature of some dash cams is how they will call the emergency services if a crash is detected and you dont respond; they can then share your location and ensure help is on its way. Furthermore, many dash cams come with additional driver assistance features. These include alerts to let you know about nearby speed cameras and red light cameras, plus a prompt to tell you the vehicle in front has set off just in case you werent paying attention while sat in traffic. Lastly, some dash cams can be permanently installed in your vehicle and hard-wired, giving them a constant power supply. When paired with a special parking mode, this enables the camera to sense impacts and record footage while the car is parked, potentially gathering useful evidence of your neighbors poor parking. (Image credit: Nexar) Can a dash cam drain your car battery? Dash cams need wired power So long as your engine is running, it won't drain battery Don't leave it plugged in too long when the vehicle is not in use Different dash cams use different power sources, so it's always worth checking how your new dash cam is powered if you're concerned about draining your car's battery. Some dash cams have internal power, or can easily be charged using external power sources. However, the rest use the cigarette lighter/USB port in your vehicle or need to be hard-wired, meaning they do use your car's battery. If you use the cigarette lighter/USB port to power your dash cam, then leaving it plugged in overnight might drain your car battery, depending on if your vehicle supplies constant power to the ports. Hard-wired dash cams can be set up to switch on with the car ignition in some vehicles to save battery, too. If you were planning on using your new dash cam for security purposes, you might want to consider choosing a dash cam with motion detection and using an external power source to make sure you don't drain your car battery. Does a dash cam drain battery? Heres what you need to know, according to experts (Image credit: Nextbase) Is a GoPro / action camera better than a dash cam? Action cameras can have better video quality than dash cams You miss out on advanced safety features, such as a G-sensor The price difference can be negligible GoPro cameras are some of the best action cameras you can buy, together with DJI and Insta360. They can be easily mounted to your dashboard and set to record video on a rolling loop. Because action cameras are compact, they shouldnt obstruct your view of the road ahead, while the latest models are capable of capturing 5.3K videos which is sharper than 4K. Then there's 360 cameras which can record front and cabin views simultaneously. However, there are certain factors which make a dedicated dash cam better than a GoPro for recording the road, forgetting that the price difference between a GoPro Hero 13 Black, say, and a premium dash cam such as the Garmin Dash Cam X310 is less than you might think. What you dont get with an action camera are the more advanced features associated with a high-spec dash cam, such as G-sensor collision detection or parking protection, while many won't show GPS data such as speed and location. Youll also need to manually set a GoPro or action camera to record every time you get behind the wheel, even if its power cable is connected to your vehicle. If you already own a GoPro, pairing it with a dashboard mount or windshield suction cup is an easy way to record video while youre driving. We even have a dedicated guide on how to use a GoPro as a dash cam for your car . We also ran a month-long experiment with the Insta360 X5 360-degree camera to see if it could replace a dash cam . In both cases are conclusion is clear if youre looking for a comprehensive solution to capture in-car video, its worth considering a dash cam. (Image credit: Future) Are dash cams legal? Make sure the dash cam doesn't obstruct your view of the road It might not be legal to record on private property Don't breach data protection laws by posting identifiable individuals online Using a dash cam is generally legal in both the UK and the US. In fact, certain bodies in both countries actively encourage the use of dash cams to reduce insurance premiums. That said, there are a few basic rules to follow to ensure your dash cam usage stays on the right side of the law. A dash cam shouldnt obstruct your view of the road ahead or distract you while youre behind the wheel. For this reason, some people prefer to choose a model without a display. In the US, many states have regulations governing where you can mount a dash cam. Several prohibit you from fitting one to your windshield, for example. Privacy regulations are another factor to consider. As there is no reasonable expectation of privacy on public roads, its generally legal to record with a dash cam while driving. However, this changes on private property, such as a persons driveway. While dash cam recordings can usually be justified on the grounds of safety and security, its important to act reasonably and be mindful of where and what you record. This is particularly the case for professional drivers. If youre a taxi driver, for example, you should inform passengers that your vehicle is fitted with a dash cam, particularly if its recording audio. In the US, several states only permit sound recording with the permission of everyone in the vehicle. You should also think carefully before sharing any dash cam footage online. Uploading videos that identify individuals without their consent could breach data protection laws. Its always safer to blur details such as registration plates and faces when publishing any dash cam clips. Its worth nothing that a number of European countries restrict the use of dash cams, so be sure to familiarize yourself with regional rules. (Image credit: Nextbase) What is loop recording? It avoids the card filling up When memory is full, the oldest footage is overwritten by newer clips G-Sensor tech auto protects key clips such as collisions Loop recording allows dash cams to continuously record video footage to their built-in storage or memory card. The setting automatically overwrites the oldest clips on your camera with new ones when its storage becomes full. This way, it can keep recording without requiring you to pull over and manually delete unneeded clips. This gives you the reassurance that there will be no gap in your driving log. Worried your dash cam is going to delete footage? Here's how you can preserve crucial clips By default, dash cams save video clips in sequential order. Loop recording usually works by splitting these clips into preset intervals based on file size or time, such as 2-minute or 5-minute segments. By dividing recordings like this, dash cams can write over small parts of a longer video without erasing the entire thing at once. This can also make it easier to locate clips of specific moments, without having to scan through lengthy recordings. To stop important clips from being overwritten, many of the best dash cams can automatically detect potential incidents and flag the relevant footage to protect it from deletion. Most models with loop recording also allow you to manually tag clips with the same effect, generally by way of a shortcut button on the body of the dash cam. How much is a dash cam? The price of a dash cam can vary wildly depending on the technology housed within, the features it offers and the quality of the video and audio it captures. Our favorite budget dash cam, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3, comes in at around $150/150, but it is possible to spend upwards of $500/500 for those kits that include rear-facing cameras, or models that also capture footage from inside the cabin. In reality, it is possible to spend as little as $50/50 for a dash cam from a respectable brand, but youll likely have to make do with lower-quality 1080p video, basic sound and the bare minimum in terms of sensors that kick-start automatic recording in the case of an accident. How do dash cams work? Dash cams are small video cameras that are mounted inside a vehicle to capture the road ahead, continuously recording on a loop (and deleting older footage unless saved ) in order to save space on a memory card. There are cameras that also cover action from the rear window, as well as those that record inside the cabin, while audio capture, night vision and 4K resolution (in some cases) all help deliver the best footage for use as evidence following an incident. Built-in accelerometers and other sensors can detect an accident and will automatically save the footage down to an SD card or the cloud, depending on whats offered, while hard-wiring a camera into a vehicles power outlet means it can also act as a vigilant pair of eyes when the vehicle is parked. How do I install a dash cam? Installation will depend on the model but in general, the camera unit itself attaches to the windscreen through either a sucker mount or via provided adhesive pads. There are other possible locations and mounting methods, but its best to check the manufacturers guidelines or see our full guide to dash cam placement . Dash cams then draw power from the vehicles 12V battery via a typical 12V cigarette lighter-style outlet. Although more modern units can also be powered through a vehicles USB or USB-C ports. The trailing wires will need to be tucked neatly out of the way, which can require removing interior vehicle trim, while hard-wiring the camera directly to the vehicles battery also unlocks other beneficial features, such as a parking sentry mode, but its worth seeking professional installation help for these things. What is a good dash cam to buy? As you can see in our guide above, we recommend the Viofo A329 as the best all-rounder dash cam, based on its excellent video quality, supplementary rear camera and its compatibility with external SSD drives. That said, the Viofo model is relatively expensive and there are more affordable dash cams out there for those on a tight budget, including the Miofive S1 Ultra and the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3. Nextbase, Garmin and Thinkware have been producing dash cams for a very long time and, as a result, have garnered an excellent reputation for quality and longevity. Do dash cams record audio? Most modern dash cams can record audio, though quality and the ability to turn it off vary by model. The built-in microphone primarily captures internal sounds, though exterior noises such as horns, tire screeching or loud voices can also be recorded. Some high-end dash cams use noise-reduction algorithms to suppress wind and engine noise, helping conversations or warnings come through more clearly. However, there are privacy and legal considerations. Recording passengers without their knowledge may breach data laws in some regions. To address this, many dash cams include a mute function or allow users to disable the microphone entirely, striking a balance between evidence and privacy. Weve got an entire guide to dash cam audio , including input from experts in the field. Do dash cams record when the car is switched off? If a dash cam is plugged into a vehicles 12V outlet, power is typically cut to a device in order to preserve the vehicles battery and the dash cam will switch off after a few seconds. That said, it is best to check this, as some vehicles provide constant power from 12V outlets, which can lead to flat batteries fast. Although you can read our full guide to dash cam power for more info. An alternate method is to hard-wire a dash cam into a vehicles power supply, which will typically involve smart power monitoring tech, so the camera will only draw power if theres enough remaining in the vehicles battery pack. Is a front or rear dash cam more important? Most dash cams cover the action out of the front window, as this is where the majority of potential incidents take place. However, a rear-facing camera can add further peace of mind in the case of rear shunts, persistent tail-gaters or other unfortunate events that might occur in the rear-view mirror. Similarly, some modern dash cam kits include three cameras to give an almost 360-degree view of the environment, including capturing content from inside the vehicle. This sort of footage can prove vital as evidence that the driver wasnt distracted during an incident, for example. Are there any wireless dash cameras? Unfortunately a dash cam requires a constant power supply to work, so there isnt anything thats completely wireless at the moment. That said, some of the best models out there offer seamless data transfer via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, making it possible to send video and still images directly from the camera to a smartphone, often via an easy-to-use application. Do dash cameras lower insurance costs? Owning a dash cam doesnt necessarily guarantee a lower insurance premium many drivers who ask insurers for discounts often get no direct reduction. Larger or leading insurers tend to treat dash cams as helpful for evidence, not as a primary factor in pricing. That said, a camera can prove invaluable when making a claim: video can help establish fault, disprove false allegations or speed up processing. Weve explored the topic extensively in our guide to whether dash cams lower insurance costs . If youre shopping around, its worth asking the insurer whether they offer discounts for specific dash cam models, or whether certain features are required. Even without premium savings, the protection and peace of mind offered by clear video evidence will almost certainly help speed up claims and investigations. FAQs glossary We've been busy answering your dash cam FAQs in detail. Check out the the list of articles below, which is regularly being added to: Is frame rate important for dash cam footage? I compared 30fps and 60fps clips from a 4K camera to find out Does a dash cam drain battery? Heres what you need to know, according to experts Is your dash cam feeling the heat? Here are 8 tips to keep it running smoothly After years of testing, I know where to install a dash cam follow my 5 tips for your perfect placement Does having a dash cam really lower your insurance premium or is it just an urban myth? We asked leading insurers Five reasons why you need a dash cam from protecting yourself against scams to fending off speeding fines Worried your dash cam is going to delete footage? Here's how you can preserve crucial clips Can I use dash cam footage in court? An expert explains why video clips are increasingly helping motorists with claims Is a GoPro action camera / 360 camera better than a dash cam? Heres how the 360 camera compared How can I use a GoPro as a dash cam for my car? Should I hardwired my dash cam? Here are 3 reasons why you should too, including unlocked features Do dash cams record speed? An expert unpacks why its important to get one that logs the details Do dash cams record audio? An expert explains why its vital to capture road noise as well as video Meet the team Collectively, our team of reviewers has amassed over a hundred years of camera experience and testing, covering all of the latest and greatest cameras in the last 20 years. How we test dash cams (Image credit: Future) We fit and set up a dash cam as if we'd bought it We check daytime and nighttime video quality We check additional features and hardwire if it's possible Almost all dash cams can be fitted to a car without making any permanent modification. They can be attached to a windscreen using a suction cup or removable adhesive pad, and powered from either a USB port or the 12V socket found in almost all cars. To test dash cams, we install them in our car, attach them to the windscreen and pair them to our smartphone as if we had bought them ourselves. We then drive, at day and night, to test how the camera handles different lighting conditions, and ideally in varied weather too. The footage is then transferred to a smartphone or computer and viewed to check out the quality, and whether key details like vehicle registration plates are legible. This also gives us an opportunity to see how easy (or difficult) it is to view, transfer and save recorded footage. (Image credit: Let Geo Create / Shutterstock) Additional features like voice assistants and drive assistance systems get a thorough workout, and we also test how easy it is to turn these off, or adjust them to our personal preferences. Being able to quickly and easily turn audio recording off is key, especially when carrying passengers who dont want their conversations recorded. Naturally, we cannot crash a vehicle to see how well the dash cam detects collisions. Instead, firmly tapping the dash cam can simulate a collision, allowing us to see what happens when footage is saved. It is also possible to trigger a recording by powering the camera with a portable battery and tapping it against our desk. It may seem rudimentary, but it works and keeps our insurance company happy. Sometimes, driving over a particularly aggressive speed bump can trigger a dash cam recording. In these cases we learn that the cameras g-sensor is too sensitive, and needs to be adjusted, providing the menu system includes such an option. ====================================================================== Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/dash-cams/the-best-dash-cam-2025 --- Mystic BBS v1.12 A49 (Linux/64) * Origin: tqwNet Technology News (1337:1/100) .