Car Cameras: Should You Install One?

Cameras in cars can serve a variety of purposes, from vlogging to security and surveillance. In-car cameras can be used to record the driver, the interior of the car, or the road ahead. They can also be used to monitor the driver's behaviour and health, and even to detect things like a baby left in the back seat or someone getting sick in the car. In some cases, cameras in cars can be used for driver assistance features, such as lane keep assist or forward collision warning. When it comes to security, cameras in cars can help to deter theft or vandalism, and can even be used to monitor the car when it is parked. When choosing a camera for a car, it is important to consider factors such as power supply, internet connectivity, placement, and low-light performance. Overall, cameras in cars can provide a range of benefits, from improved safety to added convenience.

Dash cams for vlogging while driving

Vlogging while driving is a trend that's gaining traction on YouTube. If you're planning to vlog while driving, you must use a hands-free camera with a mount and ensure that you hit record before you begin moving. It's also a good idea to plan your route and what you'll be talking about in your vlog beforehand.

When choosing a dash cam for vlogging, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, you'll want a dash cam that records in high-quality video, preferably at 1080p or 2K resolution with a frame rate of at least 30 fps. This will ensure that your vlogs look sharp and detailed, even when uploaded to platforms like YouTube.

Another important feature to look for is audio recording capability. While many dash cams do record sound, you may want to consider setting up an external lavalier microphone for clearer audio. Look for a dash cam with a jack for an external microphone if this is important to you.

Additionally, consider a dash cam with multiple lenses. Some models offer a second lens that can be pointed towards the interior of your vehicle, allowing you to capture footage of both the road ahead and your reactions while driving. This can add a unique perspective to your vlogs.

• Garmin Tandem: This dash cam has dual ultra-wide lenses that can record simultaneously, with the front-facing lens capturing footage at 1440p and the rear lens capturing HD footage at 1080p. It has a compact design and wireless connectivity, making it a good option for beginners.
• Thinkware Q800 Pro: This 2-channel dash cam offers 2K video resolution and a 140-degree field of view. It also includes advanced driver assistance features like collision alert and lane departure alert. It has a stealthy design and can be easily tucked behind the rearview mirror.
• Nextbase 622GW: This premium dash cam offers 4K video resolution, image stabilization, and a 140-degree viewing angle. It also has built-in Alexa and SOS support, making it a good choice for professional vloggers. However, it is one of the more expensive options.
• Vantrue N2 Pro: This dash cam is specifically designed for ride-share drivers, with dual lenses that capture the interior and exterior of the vehicle simultaneously. It records in Full HD with smooth and sharp footage. It is a good choice if you want a simple and self-contained dash cam without extra features like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
• Miofive 4K Dash Cam: This dash cam offers impressive 4K video quality and a compact design. It includes a 2.2-inch screen and integrated storage, although the lack of a removable memory card may be a drawback for some.

Dash cams for ride-share drivers

Dash cams are a great way to protect yourself and your car while you’re on shift. They are especially useful for ride-share drivers, as they can help prevent misconduct complaints, settle disputes, and avoid lawsuits.

When choosing a dash cam, it's important to consider your needs and budget. Some dash cams have advanced features with premium price tags, while others are simple and affordable. Here are some recommended dash cams for ride-share drivers:

Nextbase iQ

The Nextbase iQ is a feature-packed 4K dash cam that offers a full suite of connected skills, including parking assistance, a voice-activated Witness Mode, and the ability to check in on your vehicle remotely via the Nextbase iQ app. It also includes an interior camera, and there’s an optional rear-facing unit. However, you'll need to pay a subscription fee to access the full set of features.

Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is a compact and discreet dash cam that records in Full HD with HDR. It produces sharp footage that's detailed enough to capture key details like license plates, even in low-light and challenging weather conditions. The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is simple to install and use, making it a reliable and unobtrusive choice.

Nexar Pro

The Nexar Pro is a dual-cam solution that records video both inside and outside the vehicle. It includes a front-facing and cabin camera, with each component being compact and easy to conceal. The Nexar Pro records in 1080p Full HD and offers features like collision detection and parking mode. It also has a companion app that allows you to review footage, generate incident reports, and back up recorded clips to the cloud.

Vantrue N4

The Vantrue N4 is a 4K dash cam that offers sharp and clear footage. It includes three cameras that can record simultaneously in full HD. The front-facing camera can capture crisp 1140p footage. The Vantrue N4 also has a 2.45-inch LCD screen for easy adjustments and the option to turn audio recording on or off. It's a good choice for ride-share drivers looking for a dash cam with clear video quality and flexible recording options.

Vantrue N2 Pro

The Vantrue N2 Pro is a dual-camera dash cam that records in both directions—out the windshield and inside the vehicle. It supports 1080p on both cameras, providing a clear and wide-enough view to capture the whole interior. It also automatically switches to night mode when it’s dark, ensuring clear footage regardless of lighting conditions. The Vantrue N2 Pro is a good option for ride-share drivers seeking a dash cam with clear video quality and convenient features.

Dash cams for older cars

Dash cams are a great way to capture evidence in the event of an accident, or even just a good story to share with your friends. They can also be used to record a meteor shower or a rare sighting while on the road.

If you drive an older car, it is recommended to get a dash cam loaded with integrated safety features, such as those found in newer vehicles. For example, Garmin dash cams offer lane-departure warnings, while some Nextbase models can automatically call for help in case of an accident.

When choosing a dash cam for an older car, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the power source. Some dash cams can drain your car's battery if they are plugged into the cigarette lighter or USB port. To avoid this, you can use a switched power supply that is only on when the car is on, or connect the dash cam to a battery pack.

Another consideration is the type of memory the dash cam uses. Some dash cams use micro SD cards, while others utilize cloud storage. If you opt for a dash cam with an SD card, be sure to purchase one with a high capacity to avoid running out of storage space.

When it comes to specific models, there are a few dash cams that are well-suited for older cars. The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is a good option for those who want a simple and discreet dash cam. It is compact, records in Full HD with HDR, and has a magnetic mount for easy installation. Another recommended dash cam is the Miofive S1 Ultra, which offers 4K video quality, GPS, and a fast 5GHz Wi-Fi connection, all for under $100.

If you're looking for a dual-camera setup, the Thinkware U1000 is an impressive option. It can record in 4K at 30fps or 2K at 60fps, offering excellent video quality. The rear camera has a 156-degree field of view, ensuring a wide coverage of the area behind your vehicle.

For those seeking a more premium option, the Nextbase iQ is a feature-rich dash cam with a subscription service. It offers parking assistance, a voice-activated Witness Mode, and the ability to check in on your vehicle remotely.

In conclusion, when choosing a dash cam for an older car, consider the power source, memory type, and the specific features that meet your needs. Some recommended models include the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2, Miofive S1 Ultra, Thinkware U1000, and Nextbase iQ.

Dash cams with subscription services

Nextbase iQ

The Nextbase iQ is a feature-rich dash cam that offers a range of subscription-based services. It is available in 1K, 2K, and 4K variants, providing high-quality footage. The camera has a built-in interior camera, and there is an optional rear-facing unit available. The iQ also includes parking assistance, a voice-activated Witness Mode, and the ability to check on your vehicle remotely via the Nextbase iQ app. GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity are also included. While the basic modes are free, a subscription is required to access the full set of features, which can increase the overall cost.

Cobra SC 400D

The Cobra SC 400D is a dash cam that offers a subscription-based service through its proprietary DriveSmarter app. The app provides police alerts and other driver reports, enhancing your awareness on the road. The camera captures footage in 4K resolution and has a responsive touchscreen for easy operation. While the Cobra SC 400D offers impressive visual performance and features, it comes at a higher cost.

Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2

While the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 does not require a subscription for its basic functionality, it can be paired with the Garmin Vault subscription service. This optional subscription provides cloud storage for your recordings, ensuring they are safely backed up and accessible. The Mini 2 captures footage in Full HD with a 140-degree field of view, making it a discreet yet capable option.

Ring Car Cam

The Ring Car Cam is a unique offering that utilizes your vehicle's OBD-II port for power. It features forward and cabin cameras, with the option to disable the cabin camera if desired. While the camera functions without a subscription, the Ring Protect Go subscription enhances its capabilities. This subscription enables LTE connectivity, cloud storage for your footage, and other useful features. It is important to note that without the subscription, certain functions are limited.

Dash cams with advanced driver assistance systems

ADAS typically includes a Forward Collision Warning System (FCWS), which uses visual sensors and GPS data to warn the driver when they are approaching the vehicle in front at high speed. This system can also detect when a vehicle in front is driving away, while the driver's car is stationary. Lane Departure Warning Systems (LDWS) are another common feature, which notifies drivers with visual or vocal cues when they are drifting out of their lane. This is particularly useful for long-distance driving or during rush hour when distractions are more common.

Some dash cams also offer a Headway Warning system, monitoring the distance between the driver's vehicle and the one in front, providing a warning when the distance becomes unsafe. This system uses the smartphone's rear camera and motion sensors to calculate the time and distance between vehicles. Another useful feature is the Forward Vehicle Start Alarm (FVSA), which alerts the driver when the vehicle in front starts moving, helping to avoid rear-end collisions.

ADAS can also assist with parking. For example, the G-sensor in the Cobra dash cam can detect an impact and automatically start recording, notifying the registered user. This is particularly useful for drivers who want to catch incidents on camera when parked in a crowded lot or on the street.

In addition to these features, ADAS often includes a Fatigue Alert, which can be set to notify the driver when they have been driving uninterrupted for a long time, suggesting it is time to take a break. This is just one of the many ways that ADAS technology is helping to improve road safety and driver awareness.

Frequently asked questions