6 Types of Dash Cameras (Compare & Choose)

Knowing the different types of dashcams available is important when looking for one. Different models have different features to suit different needs. 

These devices have become quite popular due to their ability to provide crucial evidence in the event of accidents, enhance driving safety, and even capture unexpected moments on the road.

In this article, I’ll explore the different types of dashcams available and help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

Types of Dashcams – At a Glance

Here’s a table covering the different types of dashcams and their key parameters, such as wired/wireless and recording quality. 

This will help you quickly compare and choose the best dashcam.

Type of dashcam	Description	Wired/Wireless	Recording Quality	Ideal For
Basic dashcams	Simple, forward-facing cameras.	Wired	720p to 1080p	Everyday drivers who want basic protection
Dual dashcams	Cameras that record both the front and rear	Wired	1080p	Drivers who want comprehensive coverage
Interior dashcams	Records inside the vehicle	Wired	720p to 1080p	Taxi, Uber, and Lyft drivers
4K dashcams	High-resolution cameras.	Wired/Wireless	4K	Those who need high-quality footage.
Smart dashcams	Equipped with advanced features like GPS, Wi-Fi, and voice control.	Wireless	1080p to 4K	Tech-savvy users who want extra functionalities.
Fleet dashcams	Designed for commercial vehicles with multiple cameras and fleet management tools	Wired	1080p	Businesses with multiple vehicles

Now, for more details about the different types of dashcams and their features, please read next.

1. Basic dashcams

Source: Amazon

Description: Simple, forward-facing cameras.
Features: Records the road ahead, easy to install.
Ideal For: Everyday drivers who want basic protection.

Basic dashcams are the most straightforward type. They are mounted on the windshield and record everything happening in front of the car. 

These are perfect for drivers who need a simple solution to capture their journeys and any incidents that might occur. They are easy to install and use, making them a popular choice for many.

2. Dual dashcams

Source: Amazon

Description: Cameras that record both the front and rear.
Features: Two lenses, captures more angles.
Ideal For: Drivers who want comprehensive coverage.

Dual dashcams have two cameras: one facing forward and one facing the rear. This setup provides a more complete view of your surroundings, making it easier to capture incidents from multiple angles. They are great for those who want to ensure they have footage of both the front and back of their vehicle.

3. Interior dashcams

Source: Amazon

Description: Records inside the vehicle.
Features: Monitors passengers, which is useful for rideshare drivers.
Ideal For: Taxi, Uber, and Lyft drivers.

Interior dashcams are designed to record the inside of the vehicle. They are especially useful for rideshare drivers who want to monitor passenger behavior and ensure safety inside the car. These cameras can help in resolving disputes with passengers and provide an extra layer of security.

4. 4K dashcams

Source: Amazon

Description: High-resolution cameras.
Features: Clearer video quality, better details.
Ideal For: Those who need high-quality footage.

4K dashcams offer ultra-high-definition video quality. This means clearer and more detailed footage, which can be crucial for capturing important details like license plates and road signs. They are ideal for those who want the best possible video quality from their dashcam.

5. Smart dashcams

Source: Amazon

Description: Equipped with advanced features.
Features: GPS, Wi-Fi, voice control.
Ideal For: Tech-savvy users who want extra functionalities.

Smart dashcams come with advanced features such as GPS for location tracking, Wi-Fi for easy video transfer, and voice control for hands-free operation. These are great for users who want more than just basic recording. They offer additional functionalities that can make driving safer and more convenient.

6. Fleet dashcams

Source: Amazon

Description: Designed for commercial vehicles.
Features: Multiple cameras, fleet management tools.
Ideal For: Businesses with multiple vehicles.

Fleet dashcams are tailored for commercial use. They often include multiple cameras and tools for fleet management, making them ideal for businesses that need to monitor several vehicles at once. These dashcams help in managing a fleet of vehicles efficiently, ensuring safety and accountability.

Benefits Of Getting a dashcam

Getting a dashcam offers several benefits. It provides crucial evidence in case of accidents, helping to resolve disputes and insurance claims. 

dashcams also enhance driving safety by encouraging better driving habits, as drivers know they are being recorded. 

Plus, they capture unexpected moments on the road, which can be exciting or worthwhile. A dashcam is a valuable tool for personal and commercial vehicle owners, offering peace of mind and security.

Here are the top benefits of getting a dashcam:

• Provides crucial evidence in accidents, aiding dispute resolution and insurance claims.
• Enhances driving safety by promoting better driving habits.
• Captures unexpected moments on the road.
• Deters theft and vandalism.
• Monitors driving behavior for commercial drivers.
• Can potentially lower insurance premiums.
• Offers peace of mind and security for both personal and commercial vehicle owners.

Top dashcams To Buy

Choosing the right dashcam can be overwhelming with so many options available. 

Here are three of the most popular dashcams, known for their reliability, features, and video quality, to help you make an informed decision.

1. Nextbase 622GW

Known for its 4K video quality, the Nextbase 622GW offers advanced features like image stabilization, GPS, and Alexa integration. It’s perfect for those who want top-notch video clarity and smart functionalities.

Buy Here

2. Garmin dashcam Mini 2

This compact and affordable dashcam provides 1080p video quality. Despite its small size, it includes features like voice control and automatic incident detection, making it a great choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Buy Here

3. Vantrue N2 Pro

Ideal for rideshare drivers, the Vantrue N2 Pro features dual cameras that record both the road ahead and the vehicle’s interior. It offers 1080p video quality and infrared night vision, ensuring clear footage in all lighting conditions.

Buy Here

Conclusion: Dashcams Have 6 Major Types

dashcams come in many types, each with unique features to match different needs. A basic front-facing dashcam is affordable and does the job well for everyday use. Dual dashcams, recording both front and rear, offer comprehensive coverage and are popular among drivers wanting extra security.

Interior dashcams are perfect for ride-share drivers who need to monitor the inside of their vehicle. High-tech options like 360-degree dashcams and 4K models provide the best quality and coverage but come at a higher price. 

Many people prefer Wi-Fi dashcams because they can view footage on their phones. Generally, basic front-facing dashcams are more affordable and meet the needs of most drivers. 

Investing in a dashcam gives you peace of mind, improves your driving experience, and lowers your insurance costs.

FAQs

1. Is there a dashcam without wires?

There are wireless dashcams available. These models typically use a battery or solar power and connect to your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. 

2. What is the downside of a dashcam?

While dashcams offer many benefits, they also have some drawbacks. They can be a distraction if not properly installed, and some models may have limited battery life or storage capacity.

3. How do I know what dashcam to get?

Choosing the right dashcam depends on your specific needs. Consider factors like video quality, field of view, storage capacity, and additional features such as GPS, Wi-Fi, or dual cameras. 

4. How much should I pay for a dashcam?

The price of dashcams varies widely based on features and quality. Basic models can start around $50, while high-end models with advanced features can cost $200 or more. It’s important to balance your budget with the features you need.

5. Is insurance cheaper with Dashcam?

Some insurance companies offer discounts for drivers who use dashcams, as they can provide valuable evidence in case of an accident. However, this varies by insurer and location, so it’s best to check with your insurance provider.

6. Does your insurance go down if you have a dashcam?

Having a dashcam can potentially lower your insurance premiums, as it may reduce the risk of fraudulent claims and provide clear evidence in disputes. However, not all insurance companies offer this benefit.