Buying Guide for the Best Dash Cam With Rears
Choosing the right dash cam with a rear camera can be a bit overwhelming given the variety of options available. A dash cam is a valuable tool for recording your driving experience, providing evidence in case of accidents, and enhancing your overall safety on the road. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a dash cam with a rear camera.Video ResolutionVideo resolution determines the clarity and detail of the footage captured by the dash cam. Higher resolution means clearer and more detailed videos. Common resolutions include 720p (HD), 1080p (Full HD), and 4K (Ultra HD). If you want to capture fine details like license plates, a higher resolution like 1080p or 4K is recommended. For general use, 1080p is usually sufficient.
Field of View (FOV)The field of view indicates how wide the camera can capture the scene in front of and behind your vehicle. A wider FOV can capture more of the surroundings, which is useful for recording incidents that happen on the sides of your car. Typical FOV ranges from 120 to 170 degrees. If you drive in busy areas or want comprehensive coverage, opt for a wider FOV. For regular driving, a moderate FOV around 140 degrees is adequate.
Night VisionNight vision capability allows the dash cam to record clear footage in low-light conditions or at night. This is crucial for capturing incidents that occur in the dark. Look for dash cams with good night vision features, such as infrared LEDs or advanced sensors. If you frequently drive at night or in poorly lit areas, prioritize a dash cam with strong night vision performance.
Storage CapacityDash cams record footage onto memory cards, and the storage capacity determines how much video can be saved before it starts overwriting old files. Common storage options include 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB memory cards. If you want to store more footage without frequently transferring files, choose a larger capacity. For everyday use, a 64GB card is usually sufficient, but if you drive long distances or want to keep recordings for longer, consider 128GB or more.
Loop RecordingLoop recording ensures that the dash cam continues to record even when the memory card is full by overwriting the oldest files. This feature is important to ensure continuous recording without manual intervention. Most dash cams have this feature, but it's good to confirm. If you want hassle-free operation, make sure your dash cam supports loop recording.
G-SensorA G-sensor detects sudden movements or impacts and automatically saves the footage around the event to prevent it from being overwritten. This is crucial for preserving evidence in case of accidents. If you want to ensure important incidents are recorded and saved, look for a dash cam with a reliable G-sensor.
GPSGPS functionality allows the dash cam to record your location and speed along with the video footage. This can be useful for providing additional context in case of an incident. If you want detailed records of your trips, including location and speed data, choose a dash cam with built-in GPS.
Wi-Fi and App ConnectivityWi-Fi and app connectivity enable you to connect the dash cam to your smartphone for easy access to footage, settings, and live view. This can be convenient for quickly reviewing and sharing videos. If you prefer easy access and control via your phone, look for a dash cam with Wi-Fi and a compatible app.
Parking ModeParking mode allows the dash cam to monitor your vehicle while it is parked, recording any incidents that occur when you are not around. This feature is useful for added security. If you want to protect your car even when it's parked, choose a dash cam with a reliable parking mode.