Best Car Dash Cameras for Video Quality (2024)

1

BlackVue DR970X-2CH Plus 4K Cloud Dashcam

Score: 9/10

BlackVue DR970X-2CH Plus 4K Cloud Dashcam

The dashcam provides excellent video quality with advanced image sensors and lenses, though rear camera improvements are limited.

Video Quality

9/10

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Integral Cam

This year's upgrades to BlackVue's 4K dash cameras are indeed worth discussing.

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Integral Cam

The new Sony Starvis 2 image sensor definitely provides better low-light sensitivity and dynamic range.

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Integral Cam

The front lens is upgraded to a seven-element lens, supporting an f/1.7 aperture with a 146° diagonal angle of view.

Storage Capacity

8/10

Supports large memory cards and efficient video coding, though additional costs for cloud features may apply.

Ease Of Use

7/10

Easy app pairing and live view features, but installation can be complex for some users.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Integral Cam

Setting up is as easy as before, thanks to the seamless pairing.

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Integral Cam

The Dr 970x Plus doesn't have a screen. We recommend directly checking the position of the dash cam through its live view feature in the mobile app.

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Integral Cam

If you don't know how to do this, I'll provide a link in the description to a guide.

Build Quality

7/10

Discrete design with reliable installation, but size may be inconvenient for some.

Connectivity

8/10

Offers dual-band Wi-Fi and comprehensive cloud features, but additional costs for full connectivity.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Integral Cam

This year, they do have dual-band wireless, so it now has 2.4 or 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity.

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Integral Cam

BlackVue Cloud is the best cloud-based service for dash cameras on the market.

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Integral Cam

The main thing about this one is that it does not have a SIM card slot built in.

2

Thinkware U1000

Score: 9/10

Thinkware U1000

Delivers sharp 4K video quality with enhanced night vision, though the rear camera only supports 2K resolution.

Video Quality

9/10

L

Linus Tech Tips

The Thinkware U1000 records in sharp 4K video quality through its 150-degree lens.

L

Linus Tech Tips

You can also add an optional rear camera that shoots in a lower, but still crisp, 2K resolution.

L

Linus Tech Tips

The device records in sharp 4K video quality.

Storage Capacity

7/10

Supports large storage but requires frequent management due to high-resolution recordings.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Linus Tech Tips

With 24 days of long parking mode, you can go on a trip for a couple of weeks, come back, and this device will still record every impact on your car.

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Linus Tech Tips

It can even communicate with a smartphone, showing my view right on the screen.

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Linus Tech Tips

The location is updated every 10 seconds.

Ease Of Use

7/10

Offers easy installation and a user-friendly app, but setup can be complex due to numerous features.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Linus Tech Tips

It comes with built-in GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity for location tracking, speed data, and camera alerts.

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Linus Tech Tips

And the geofencing feature is included.

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Linus Tech Tips

It can even communicate with a smartphone, showing my view right on the screen.

Build Quality

8/10

Durable and sleek design, though some may find the price high for the build quality offered.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Linus Tech Tips

The Thinkware U1000 should fit the bill well.

L

Linus Tech Tips

It does have some creature comforts.

L

Linus Tech Tips

This brand has a high customer satisfaction rating of 83%.

Connectivity

7/10

Features dual-band Wi-Fi and GPS, but may experience connectivity issues with the cloud app.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Linus Tech Tips

It comes with built-in GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity for location tracking, speed data, and camera alerts.

L

Linus Tech Tips

This device supports dual-band Wi-Fi.

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Linus Tech Tips

It can even communicate with a smartphone, showing my view right on the screen.

3

BlackVue DR900X-2CH

Score: 9/10

BlackVue DR900X-2CH

Records in 4K with improved heat tolerance, though requires additional LTE module for full connectivity.

Video Quality

9/10

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Vortex Radar

The DR900X is going to record in 4K up front.

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Vortex Radar

It's a better dashcam than the DR900S due to the new improvements it is adding.

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Vortex Radar

This is really nice because the DR900S has previously had issues with overheating in hot weather and actually shutting off.

Storage Capacity

7/10

Supports cloud uploads and remote access, but requires LTE module and supports only one device connection.

Ease Of Use

7/10

Offers real-time video access and convenient parking mode, but requires extra steps for LTE module use.

Build Quality

8/10

Features improved heat management and a smaller size, but requires new wiring and is not compatible with older accessories.

Connectivity

7/10

Enhanced cloud connectivity with optional LTE module, but limited to one device connection and additional cost.
4

Nextbase 622GW

Score: 9/10

Nextbase 622GW

4K resolution and effective stabilization provide clear and smooth footage.

Video Quality

9/10

L

Lens Of James

The 622GW is a 4K dash cam that's packed with innovative, practical, and useful features for keeping you safe while driving.

L

Lens Of James

I'm very impressed with the quality of all the footage. This footage seems to have a certain clarity and sharpness, making number plates and signs very clear.

L

Lens Of James

The image stabilization option is excellent and does a great job of stabilizing the footage.

Storage Capacity

8/10

Supports large microSD cards and dual file settings for efficient management.

Ease Of Use

7/10

Easy installation and hands-free operation with Alexa, but setup can be cumbersome.

Build Quality

7/10

Premium look with strong magnetic mount, but limited battery power.

Connectivity

6/10

Wi-Fi and GPS enhance connectivity, but app reliance may be inconvenient.
5

DOD Tech LS460W

Score: 9/10

DOD Tech LS460W

Superior recording quality with excellent night performance, though requires correct settings to avoid distortion.

Storage Capacity

9/10

Efficient storage management with time lapse and loop recording features.

Ease Of Use

9/10

User-friendly interface with intuitive controls and separate buttons.

Build Quality

9/10

Elegant and durable design with high-quality materials.

Connectivity

9/10

Reliable GPS and HDMI connectivity enhance functionality.
6

Viofo A119 V3

Score: 9/10

Viofo A119 V3

Offers excellent video quality with high resolution and good night vision.

Video Quality

9/10

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Vortex Radar

It has good video quality and a nice feature set.

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Vortex Radar

adding higher resolution options, higher frame rates, or a new HDR feature

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Vortex Radar

2K at 30 frames per second with a 21:9 ratio, and everything seems to be working really well.

Storage Capacity

8/10

Supports large storage and continuous recording, but requires separate SD card purchase.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Vortex Radar

I also picked up a set of hardwire cables to install them in the car and a 256GB card to insert as well.

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Vortex Radar

Quick disclaimer: this kit does not come with an SD card, so you have to buy your own.

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Vortex Radar

I set the loop recording to occur every three minutes so that it records constantly.

Ease Of Use

7/10

Straightforward installation but menu navigation can be challenging.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Vortex Radar

I encountered a number of issues with the installation that made it a bit tougher since I wasn't at home.

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Vortex Radar

It's super easy to install it yourself.

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Vortex Radar

Installation is straightforward with the provided tools and clips.

Build Quality

7/10

Compact and durable design, but adhesive mount is permanent.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Vortex Radar

It looks pretty clean and pretty slim.

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Vortex Radar

It comes with a GPS module, which I will install in my car.

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Vortex Radar

It uses three-millimeter tape, so if you're like me and have tint on your windows, just be careful.

Connectivity

6/10

Basic connectivity with GPS, but lacks advanced features.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Vortex Radar

The kit provides you with a 12-volt plug-in for your cigarette lighter to power the entire system.

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Vortex Radar

There is a parking mode feature on this, but again, be careful where you plug it in.

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Vortex Radar

It comes with a GPS module, which I will have in my car.

7

Thinkware U1000 4K Dash Cam UHD

Score: 8/10

Thinkware U1000 4K Dash Cam UHD

The U1000 provides 4K UHD video quality with HDR, ensuring clear footage and legible details.

Video Quality

8/10

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Vortex Radar

The optional rear camera for the U1000 records at 2K.

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Vortex Radar

The U1000 features an 8-megapixel Sony Starvis IMX 334 camera for the front.

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Vortex Radar

The U1000 has an updatable database that alerts you to things like fixed red light cameras and speed cameras.

Storage Capacity

7/10

Supports large storage capacities but high-resolution files consume space quickly.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Vortex Radar

The U1000 has an updatable database that alerts you to things like fixed red light cameras and speed cameras.

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Vortex Radar

Both of these cameras deliver 4K UHD for the front and 2K QHD for the rear.

Ease Of Use

7/10

Easy to mount with automatic recording, but setup may require tech support.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Vortex Radar

It is designed to be mounted on your windshield, right next to the U1000.

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Vortex Radar

I find it pretty problematic and challenging. I actually had to reach out to tech support to figure out how to do it.

Build Quality

8/10

Durable build with a low-profile design, but installation can be challenging.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Vortex Radar

The Thinkware U1000 still remains a timeless high-end choice.

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Vortex Radar

European cars, like this German Audi rron, have really tight and rigid trims, so this could be one of the tougher challenges for you.

Connectivity

7/10

Offers cloud functionality and multiple connectivity options, but setup can be difficult.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Vortex Radar

Once you're connected to the dash cam, it will allow you to do things like locating your vehicle on a map in real time.

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Vortex Radar

I find it pretty problematic and challenging. I actually had to reach out to tech support to figure out how to do it.

8

70mai A800S Dash Cam

Score: 8/10

70mai A800S Dash Cam

The 70mai A800S Dash Cam delivers impressive 4K video quality, especially with its front camera, though the rear camera's performance is less stellar.

Video Quality

8/10

P

Phil UK Net

The performance of the camera has been truly impressive.

P

Phil UK Net

The footage looks pretty decent, but in the A800S, I think the footage is slightly warmer and also slightly sharper.

P

Phil UK Net

The rear camera of the A800S has slightly higher noise compared to the 810, and both cameras are nowhere near the quality that the front camera offers.

Storage Capacity

7/10

Supports up to 256 GB microSD cards, allowing for extended recording, though no card is included.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Phil UK Net

Remember to remove the SD card.

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Phil UK Net

I ruined the SD card, so now I need a new one.

Ease Of Use

6/10

Straightforward setup with easy access to video samples, but battery replacement is challenging.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Phil UK Net

It was a really difficult task to separate the two halves of the camera.

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Phil UK Net

This camera wasn't really designed to be opened for a battery replacement.

Build Quality

7/10

Solid build with a premium feel, but not designed for easy battery replacement.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Phil UK Net

The camera requires an enormous amount of force to separate its two halves.

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Phil UK Net

It disappoints me that 7i has designed it this way, without taking battery replacement into consideration.

Connectivity

6/10

Offers WiFi and app support, but lacks HDR and motion detection in parking mode.

Quotes from Reviewers

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Phil UK Net

The A800S does not support HDR, whereas the A810 supports HDR on both the front and rear dash cams.

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Phil UK Net

The A800S does not support motion detection during parking monitoring.

9

Garmin Dash Cam 67W

Score: 8/10

Garmin Dash Cam 67W

Records in 1440p HD with a 180-degree wide-angle lens, offering clear and vivid footage.

Video Quality

8/10

T

TechnoRV

The Garmin Dash Cam 67W records in 1440p HD at 60 frames per second, providing clear and vivid video.

T

TechnoRV

It features a 180-degree wide-angle lens, which captures more of the environment.

T

TechnoRV

The display resolution is 320 by 240 pixels, which is not very high.

Storage Capacity

8/10

Supports up to 512GB with automatic looping and cloud storage options.

Quotes from Reviewers

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TechnoRV

It comes pre-installed with a 16GB SD card and supports up to 512GB.

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TechnoRV

The system loops over old information, so you don't need to manually delete the footage.

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TechnoRV

A class 10 or faster SD card is required for upgrades.

Ease Of Use

8/10

User-friendly with a magnetic mount and intuitive app controls.

Quotes from Reviewers

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TechnoRV

The Garmin Drive app makes it easy to review footage and adjust settings.

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TechnoRV

The magnetic mount allows for easy installation and removal.

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TechnoRV

It requires constant power for some features, such as the parking guard and live view.

Build Quality

8/10

Compact and durable with a premium feel, though small buttons may be challenging.

Quotes from Reviewers

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TechnoRV

The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to install without obstructing the view.

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TechnoRV

The build quality is top-notch, giving off a premium vibe.

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TechnoRV

The two-inch display might be too small for some users.

Connectivity

7/10

Offers comprehensive coverage with app integration, but requires constant power and Wi-Fi.

Quotes from Reviewers

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TechnoRV

You can sync up to four Garmin dash cameras for comprehensive coverage.

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TechnoRV

The Garmin Drive app allows for real-time viewing and control via a smartphone.

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TechnoRV

It requires constant power and Wi-Fi for live view and some features.

10

Garmin Dash Cam 57

Score: 8/10

Garmin Dash Cam 57

Offers high-resolution 1440p video with a wide 140-degree view, though some issues with glare and graininess.

Video Quality

8/10

T

TechnoRV

The camera resolution on the 57, which is what it's shooting in, is 1440p, and that is a very high resolution.

T

TechnoRV

60 frames per second is a very high rate, and basically, what that will do is minimize any motion blur you might have.

T

TechnoRV

It has a 140-degree viewing angle, which should capture most of what's going on around us on the road.

Storage Capacity

8/10

Supports up to 512GB with loop recording, but requires a class 10 SD card for best performance.

Quotes from Reviewers

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TechnoRV

This unit comes pre-installed with a 16-gigabyte SD card, and you can insert your own SD card if you want, up to 512 gigabytes.

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TechnoRV

These systems typically loop over old information when you're using a dash camera.

Ease Of Use

7/10

Compact design with voice control, but needs constant power supply.

Quotes from Reviewers

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TechnoRV

It's easy to install, easy to move from one vehicle to another, and I really do appreciate that.

T

TechnoRV

The Dash Cam 57 does have voice control, so from my driver's seat, I can say, 'Hey Garmin, take a picture.'

Build Quality

7/10

Durable and discreet design, but requires constant power connection.

Quotes from Reviewers

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TechnoRV

It is a nice and compact pocket size, as they call it, just like you want for a dash camera.

T

TechnoRV

It does have a magnetic mount, which is one of my favorite features of this.

Connectivity

7/10

Good app integration and GPS, but lacks a rear camera option.

Quotes from Reviewers

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TechnoRV

The Garmin dash cams work with the Garmin Drive app, which you can download onto your smartphone and then connect via Bluetooth to this unit.

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TechnoRV

With the Garmin Drive app, you can also use the live view feature, but you do need to have Wi-Fi for that.