Dash cams, short for dashboard cameras, are small video cameras that are mounted on the dashboard or windshield of a vehicle to record the road ahead and sometimes the interior of the car. They have become more and more popular for various reasons, including providing evidence in case of accidents, monitoring driving behavior, and capturing memorable moments on the road. In this full guide, we will explore the purpose of dash cams and review three of the best models of 2024, highlighting their specifications, pros, cons, and reasons to consider them.
Purpose of Dash Cams:
Evidence in Accidents: Dashcams record footage of the road ahead, which can be crucial in determining fault in the event of an accident. This footage can serve as evidence in insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Monitoring Driving Behavior: Some dash cams come with features like GPS tracking and G-force sensors to monitor driving behavior such as speeding, harsh braking, and erratic maneuvers. This information can be useful for improving driving habits and coaching inexperienced drivers.
Security: Dash cams equipped with parking mode and motion sensors can capture incidents such as vandalism, theft, and hit-and-runs when the vehicle is parked. This adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind for vehicle owners.
Insurance Discounts: Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who install dash cams in their vehicles. The recorded footage can help insurers assess claims more accurately and efficiently, leading to potential savings for policyholders.
Documenting Road Trips: Dash cams are not just for capturing accidents and incidents; they can also document scenic road trips and memorable journeys. The footage can be shared with friends and family or used for personal enjoyment.
Top 3 Dash Cams of 2024:
Vantrue N4 3:
Specifications:
Resolution: Front (1440p), Cabin (1440p), Rear (1080p)
Field of View: Front (155°), Cabin (165°), Rear (160°)
Parking Crash Video Protection: Yes
Crash Detection Video Protection: Yes
Cameras: Front, Cabin, Rear
Pros:
Good image quality across all cameras.
Clear display with picture-in-picture mode.
Excellent value for money.
Wide fields of view with minimal distortion.
Infrared lighting for low-light conditions.
Cons:
Wiring backup camera may be tricky.
Low-frame-rate and low-bit-rate modes can drain car battery.
No included micro SD card.
Resolution drops when using all three cameras simultaneously.
Limited adjustment options for mounting.
Reasons to Buy:
Offers three cameras for comprehensive coverage.
Impressive image quality and wide field of view.
Affordable price compared to competitors.
Cobra SC 400D:
Specifications:
Resolution: 1080p
Field of View: Not specified
Parking Crash Video Protection: Yes
Crash Detection Video Protection: Yes
App: Yes, Android and Apple
Cameras: Front, Rear
Pros:
4K resolution for superior video quality.
Fantastic touchscreen interface.
DriveSmarter app for additional features.
Easy to operate and responsive.
Includes a micro SD card.
Cons:
Relatively expensive compared to other models.
Limited swivel range for mounting.
No specific field of view mentioned.
App compatibility may vary.
Does not include a rear-facing cabin camera.
Reasons to Buy:
High-resolution video recording for detailed footage.
User-friendly touchscreen interface and app integration.
Comprehensive protection features and included micro SD card.
Car and Driver Dual View:
Specifications:
Resolution: 1080p
Field of Vision: Not specified
Parking Crash Video Protection: Yes
Crash Detection Video Protection: Yes
Cameras: Front, Rear
Pros:
Affordable price with dual cameras.
Multiple mounting options for versatility.
Easy to use touchscreen interface.
Essential features like parking mode and collision detection.
Adjustable orientations for optimal positioning.
Cons:
Mount may loosen on bumpy rides.
No app connectivity for additional features.
No included micro SD card.
Faint magenta hue observed during driving.
Limited field of vision information provided.
Reasons to Buy:
A budget-friendly option with dual cameras.
Versatile mounting options and user-friendly interface.
Essential features for basic dash cam functionality.
Dash cams offer numerous benefits for drivers, including evidence collection, security, and insurance savings. The Vantrue N4 3, Cobra SC 400D, and Car and Driver Dual View are among the top choices in 2024, each offering unique features and functionalities to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for high-resolution video recording, user-friendly interfaces, or budget-friendly options, there’s a dash cam out there to meet your requirements. Invest in one today and drive with confidence knowing that you have an extra set of eyes on the road.
