The Best Dash Cams of 2022

Staying safe on the road should always be front of mind for drivers, but even when you’re paying attention, accidents happen. Often they’re not your fault, but while knowing that is one thing, proving it is something else. In these situations, it pays to have a dash cam installed.

A dash cam, or dashboard camera, automatically records the road in front of you, and with some models, behind you as well. Footage is saved automatically to an internal memory card, which can then be copied to an external drive or computer.

If an accident happens, dash cam material may be reviewed by the police and/or insurance companies to determine fault in the accident.

It’s not just accidents that make dash cams useful, however. They can also help prevent (and prosecute) thefts. Features like Parking Mode automatically activate the camera when motion is detected nearby, allowing recording of would-be prowlers and vandals even when the vehicle is turned off. 

There are hundreds of dashboard cameras on the market, and each claims to be “the best”. Today, we’re taking a close look at several of the top models to figure out which ones truly are the best dash cams of 2022.

Best Dash Cam: Rexing V1-4K

The Rexing V1-4K is one of the most popular dash cams on the market, and for good reason. It’s a great all-around choice, with high-resolution recording, a wide-angle lens, and advanced extras like parking mode and a G-force sensor that can detect collisions. Despite the laundry list of features, the Rexing is affordably priced, making it a sensible option for many drivers.

The OV4689 sensor in this model can record in up to 2160p resolution and has a wide dynamic range, helping ensure crystal-clear video and strong low-light performance. The 170-degree lens also picks up a very wide field of vision, so there’s little chance of missing anything important. 

Even when the vehicle is off and the camera is asleep, the 24/7 parking monitor activates whenever motion is detected nearby. It will then record for 20 seconds, helping capture a vehicle prowler or hit-and-run without the camera needing to record constantly and drain the battery. You’ll need to buy and install a separate (inexpensive) hardwire kit to be able to activate parking mode, however.

During normal use, the V1 continually overwrites previous footage on a loop as needed. Collision detection technology ensures that footage is automatically locked if a collision occurs, however, ensuring it will remain available. The V1 supports SD cards of up to 256GB (sold separately), so you can add plenty of storage space for most situations.

Like most dashcams, the Rexing V1-4K has its own small power source that’s used when vehicle power isn’t available. Cheaper models tend to use standard lithium-ion batteries for this, while better versions (like the Rexing V1-4K) are powered by a supercapacitor instead. This lets it work in a much wider range of temperatures, with the manufacturer claiming the dash cam can operate safely down to -20°F, and as high as 176°F. 

Overall, this is a well-rounded, affordable dashcam from a respected company that offers US-based customer support. The only real downside is that you may need to buy a few extras to get full functionality: as well as the SD card and hardwire kit mentioned earlier, you’ll also need to purchase the GPS logger separately if you want to record your location as well.

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Best Front and Rear Dash Cam: VIOFO A129 Duo

For those looking to record in front of and behind their vehicle, a dual camera setup is necessary. One of the best dual dash cams on the market is the VIOFO A129 Duo, which comes as a kit that includes two separate cameras: a front-facing dash camera and a smaller rear-facing camera. Both of these record at up to 1080p, with night vision and a wide dynamic range for superior recording in low light. 

The VIOFO includes many advanced features normally only found on high-end models. This includes Wi-Fi support for viewing and transferring files and videos to your phone or computer, as well as GPS location logging. The GPS tracker is useful for insurance purposes, as it tracks both the physical location of the vehicle and its current speed. 

Like our top pick above, the VIOFO A129 Duo is powered by a supercapacitor that allows for safe operation during extreme temperatures. On the downside, the 140-degree “wide-angle” lens is a bit narrower than many popular models, but still sufficient for most purposes. The front camera is a little bulky, and best placed behind the rear-view mirror so that it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s field of vision. 

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Best Budget Dash Cam: Chortau Dash Cam

If you want a budget-friendly option, look no further than the Chortau Dash Cam. At a fraction of the cost of most devices on this list, this is the best cheap dash cam we’ve come across. Despite the low price, it actually works pretty well.

Surprisingly, the Chortau can record in full HD (1080p), and has a 170-degree wide-angle lens. It has a G-sensor and automatic accident detection, night vision support, and even includes a parking monitor feature (via an optional hardwire kit or battery.) It installs easily with a suction-cup mount, and doesn’t take up too much space. Be aware, though, that the suction cup can come loose in very hot weather.

Given the price, it perhaps isn’t surprising that the inbuilt software isn’t always the easiest to use, although it does the job. A microSD card isn’t included in the box either, so be sure to pick up a Class 10 card (up to 32GB capacity) when placing your order. 

One notable downside to this model is that it is powered by a lithium ion battery. Unlike the supercapacitor-powered devices listed above, this model won’t be able to withstand extreme temperatures. 

If you live in a particularly hot or cold climate, or are looking for the highest-quality recordings or slickest software, it’s likely worth spending a bit more. But if you don’t, and want to save some money, this is one of the best dash cams under $100.

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Best 4K Dash Cam: BlackVue DR900S 

There’s a lot of misleading advertising around 4K dash cams. Many cameras (including even our top pick) have 4K in their marketing material, but that’s just what the sensor can capture for a single image. Proper 4K video recording, especially at 30 frames per second or higher, requires much better hardware. At this stage, only a few dash cams offer it.

For true 4K video, the BlackVue DR900S is where it’s at. This is a top of the line model from a premium brand, and that’s reflected in the price, but you get a lot for your money. The tubular design is easy to mount, and its slim size and black coloring make it a discrete option if you’re trying to keep the camera hidden.

The front-facing camera has a 160° wide-angle lens and can record at 4K (3840×2160) resolution at 30fps, while the rear camera has a 140° lens that shoots at 1080p. The DR900S comes with a microSD card in the box and supports cards with up to 256GB capacity, higher than much of the competition.

Other than the higher price, the only real downside of this camera is that its small size leaves no room for a screen on the back. To view footage or change settings, you’ll need to use the iOS or Android app on your phone.

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Best Motorcycle Dash Cam: VSYSTO Waterproof Dash Cam

Motorcycle dash cameras are specifically designed for the needs of motorcyclists, built tough to withstand the elements, and needing to attach very securely so they don’t fall off while you’re riding. 

The VSYSTO Waterproof Dash Cam is the best motorbike dash cam on the market today. It comes with front- and rear-facing cameras, each with secure mounts to keep the cameras firmly attached on bumpy roads, and a touchscreen unit to connect the two together.

Both cameras can record at 1080p, with a 150° field of vision. The camera cases are IP67 rated against water and dust, and the host unit is rated to IP65, so there’s strong protection against whatever the elements decide to throw at you.

This model supports SD cards of up to 128GB capacity. As usual the loop recording approach automatically overwrites older files, so even with a relatively small SD card, you’ll be able to record enough for most situations. 

The downsides to this model is that the “wide-angle” 150° lens isn’t especially wide (many models on this list are 160° or 170°), and that GPS tracking requires an optional add-on, sold separately. 

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Best Dash Cam for Uber & Lyft Drivers: Vantrue N4

Rideshare drivers are often encouraged to use dash cams to protect themselves, not only from other road users, but also from their passengers. The Vantrue N4 dash cam is a great choice for those driving for Uber or Lyft, mostly because of its unique in-cabin camera. This model includes three separate cameras: front-facing, rear-facing, and inside the cabin. Drivers can record everything that’s going on inside and outside of their vehicles. 

The Vantrue is a fairly high-end camera, with a price tag to match. If you drive for a living, however, it’s well worth the cost, with its extra features making this one of the best dash cams for truckers and other driving professionals. In addition to the in-cabin camera, features like a 24-hour parking mode (with an optional hardwire kit), infrared night vision, and heat-resistant supercapacitor power source make this a well-rounded and powerful dash cam. 

The recording resolution for this model depends on how many cameras are running. With just the front-facing camera in use, it can record at up to 4K. With front and rear or cabin, it can record at 4K + 1080p. And with all three cameras running, it is limited to 1440p (front-facing) and 1080p + 1080p (rear-facing and in-cabin). 

The downsides to this model are that it is somewhat expensive, and that it doesn’t include GPS tracking by default. A GPS unit is sold separately for drivers who would like to add the feature, however.

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Main image via Titikul_B/Shutterstock.com, product images via Amazon