There’s only one critical function for a dashcam: to reliably record clear footage of everything that unfolds on the road. After rigorous testing and in-depth reviews, we’ve compiled a list of dash cams that excel at this primary task. Many of these recommended models also come equipped with valuable additional features such as GPS tracking and parking surveillance. Whether these extra features are necessary for you depends on your individual needs and budget. To simplify your choice, we’ve categorized our recommendations based on different driving scenarios and requirements.
From all the dash cams we’ve put through real-world testing, the Nextbase iQ stands out as our top choice for most car owners. It offers a comprehensive in-car recording solution with a wide array of smart, connected features. However, for some, its advanced capabilities might be more than needed. If you’re looking for a dash cam that’s both affordable and dependable, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is our strong recommendation.
Our team of experts has dedicated countless hours behind the wheel, thoroughly evaluating a diverse range of dash cams. Each model undergoes extensive testing across various real-world driving situations, from initial setup to challenging nighttime conditions. Our rankings are based on the results of these comprehensive reviews, which are summarized below.
Written by
Written by Timothy Coleman, TechRadar’s Cameras Editor, with over 15 years of experience in the photo and video industry. Tim’s expertise, gained as a freelance photographer and tech journalist, includes extensive testing of numerous dash cams. Having spent considerable time on roads from the UK to Nairobi, Tim understands the essential qualities of an effective dash cam. He advises, “While many dash cams on this list offer advanced features like GPS, surveillance, and driver assistance, choosing a simpler model can lead to significant savings if these tools aren’t essential for your needs.”
Top 3 Dash Cam Picks
For those seeking quick recommendations, our top three dash cam picks offer excellent options for various budgets and needs. Click on the links below each summary to jump to the detailed review.
Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam: Best Smart Dash Cam
1. Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam: Best Smart Dash Cam
Best next-generation dash cam. The Nextbase iQ is packed with features and easy to use, offering 4K recording and smart connectivity, ideal for users seeking advanced technology. Subscription required for full feature access.
Explore the Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam in Detail
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3: Best Budget Dash Cam
2. Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3: Best Budget Dash Cam
Best budget-friendly dash cam. The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is a compact and reliable option that delivers Full HD footage with HDR, now featuring a landscape design and polarizing filter for enhanced video quality.
Learn More About the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3
Nextbase 622GW: Best All-Rounder Dash Cam
3. Nextbase 622GW: Best All-Rounder Dash Cam
Best all-around dash cam. The Nextbase 622GW offers impressive 4K video quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a top choice for drivers seeking a balance of performance and features.
Discover Why the Nextbase 622GW is a Great All-Rounder
Best Dash Cams by Use-Case
Miofive S1: Best Cheap 4K Dash Cam
4. Miofive S1: Best Cheap 4K Dash Cam
Best value 4K dash cam. The Miofive S1 offers exceptional value, providing 4K video recording and built-in GPS at a price point under $100/£100, making high-quality recording accessible.
Read Our Review of the Miofive S1
70mai Dash Cam Omni: Best 360-Degree Dash Cam
5. 70mai Dash Cam Omni: Best 360-Degree Dash Cam
Best 360-degree dash cam. The 70mai Dash Cam Omni features a unique 360-degree rotating lens, capturing comprehensive views around your vehicle, perfect for both driving and in-car recording.
Explore the 360-Degree Capabilities of the 70mai Omni
Garmin DriveCam 76: Best Dash Cam with Sat Nav
6. Garmin DriveCam 76: Best Dash Cam with Sat Nav
Best dash cam for older vehicles. The Garmin DriveCam 76 combines a dash cam with a built-in sat nav, ideal for vehicles lacking modern infotainment systems, offering navigation and recording in one device.
Discover the Garmin DriveCam 76 for Analogue Vehicles
The Best Dash Cams for Cars in 2024
Why Trust TechRadar Reviews? At TechRadar, we are committed to providing trustworthy and thorough reviews. We dedicate hours to testing each product to ensure our recommendations are reliable and help you make the best purchasing decisions. Learn more about our rigorous testing process.
Below, you’ll find detailed reviews for each of the top dash cams featured in our list. Each dash cam has undergone extensive testing by our expert team, ensuring our recommendations are based on real-world performance and reliability.
The Best Smart Dash Cam: Nextbase iQ
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1. Nextbase iQ
The best next-gen dash cam with smart features.
Read our full expert review of the Nextbase iQ.
Key Specifications:
- Video Quality: Front: 1080p/1440p/2160p, Cabin: 1080p/1440p, Rear: 1440p
- Viewing Angle: Front: 140 degrees, Cabin: 180 degrees, Rear: 140 degrees
- GPS Tracker: Yes
- Memory: microSD / cloud
Reasons to Buy:
- Comprehensive, all-in-one solution for vehicle monitoring.
- Impressive suite of smart features enhancing safety and security.
- Premium design and build quality.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Advanced feature set might be excessive for basic needs.
- Full feature access requires a paid subscription.
- Subscription costs add to the overall expense.
Nextbase iQ Sample Footage: [Link to Sample Footage (if available)]
Who Should Buy the Nextbase iQ?
✅ Ideal for those seeking a complete dash cam solution: The Nextbase iQ delivers a full package of safety and security features, making it a top-tier smart dash cam.
✅ Perfect for users wanting future-proof technology: With ongoing firmware updates, the Nextbase iQ is designed to evolve and offer even more functionality over time.
Who Should Avoid the Nextbase iQ?
❌ Not recommended for those needing a simple camera: If your primary need is basic road recording, more affordable and simpler dash cam options are available.
❌ Avoid if you prefer subscription-free operation: While basic functions are free, the full range of Nextbase iQ features requires a subscription, increasing long-term costs.
The Nextbase iQ positions itself as a smart surveillance system for your vehicle, loaded with features that go beyond typical dash cam functionalities. Offered in 1K, 2K, and 4K variants, it’s a premium choice with connected capabilities including parking assistance, voice-activated Witness Mode, and remote vehicle monitoring via the Nextbase iQ app. It also includes GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. All models feature an interior camera, and a rear-facing camera is available as an optional add-on. To fully utilize its capabilities, a paid subscription is necessary, which can make the iQ a significant investment.
However, our tests have shown its impressive performance. Setup was straightforward, and the app interface is user-friendly, providing easy access to its numerous features. Video and audio quality from our 4K test unit were outstanding. Powered directly from the car battery, it remains active even when the engine is off, providing continuous surveillance. While it may be overkill for some, for those wanting comprehensive, around-the-clock vehicle monitoring, the Nextbase iQ is a leader in smart dash cam technology.
For a more budget-friendly alternative, Nextbase offers the Piqo, a simpler and more affordable model with lighter versions of the iQ’s smart features.
The Best Budget Dash Cam: Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3
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2. Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3
The best budget dash cam.
Explore our expert review of the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3.
Key Specifications:
- Video Quality: 1080p Full HD
- Viewing Angle: 140 degrees
- GPS Tracker: No
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
Reasons to Buy:
- Ultra-compact and discreet design.
- Excellent Full HD video quality.
- Includes a polarizing lens to reduce glare.
- Simple and intuitive interface.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Only a minor upgrade from the Mini 2.
- No GPS tracking capabilities.
- Lacks an integrated screen.
- MicroSD card is not included.
Who Should Buy the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3?
✅ Ideal for those wanting a hidden dash cam: Its small size allows the Mini 3 to be almost completely hidden behind the rearview mirror, maintaining clear forward visibility.
✅ Suited for users who prefer simplicity: Garmin has designed the Mini 3 for easy setup and operation, making it a dependable and unobtrusive tool that runs seamlessly in the background.
Who Should Avoid the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3?
❌ Not for owners of the Dash Cam Mini 2: The upgrades are minimal, mainly a polarizing filter and landscape design, making it unnecessary to upgrade from the previous model.
❌ Not suitable for 4K video seekers: The Mini 3 is limited to 1080p. For higher resolution, consider premium dash cams.
If you need a small, straightforward dash cam that you can set up and forget, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is an excellent choice. In our testing, its compact design was easily concealed behind the rearview mirror, and its simple interface made it user-friendly. It records high-quality Full HD video with HDR. While these features are similar to the Dash Cam Mini 2, current Mini 2 owners might not find enough new features to justify an upgrade.
Like the Mini 2, it lacks GPS and a screen. Control and settings adjustments are managed through the Garmin Drive app, which is effective for changing settings and reviewing footage. New features include a landscape design and a built-in polarizing filter, intended to reduce windshield reflections. However, in our tests, the video quality appeared similar to that of the Mini 2. Despite this, if you are a first-time dash cam buyer or looking for a more compact option, the Dash Cam Mini 3 effectively covers all essential aspects.
The Best All-Rounder Dash Cam: Nextbase 622GW
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3. Nextbase 622GW
The best all-rounder dash cam.
Read our detailed expert review of the Nextbase 622GW.
Key Specifications:
- Video Quality: 4K
- Viewing Angle: 140 degrees
- GPS Tracker: Yes
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional 4K image quality for detailed recordings.
- Excellent performance in poor weather conditions.
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
- Simple incident recording and storage.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Rear camera installation requires wiring.
- Relatively bulky design.
- Requires a large capacity SD card.
- App connectivity can be unreliable.
Who Should Buy the Nextbase 622GW?
✅ For those prioritizing emergency assistance: Integrated with what3words, the 622GW can precisely communicate your location to emergency services, enhancing safety in critical situations.
✅ For drivers wanting sharp, high-quality video: Equipped with a quad-core processor and a six-layer f/1.3 lens, the 622GW captures highly detailed 4K footage, ensuring clarity in recordings.
Who Should Avoid the Nextbase 622GW?
❌ Not for users needing seamless connectivity: Connecting to smartphones can be challenging, with Wi-Fi connection issues reported during testing.
❌ Not ideal if built-in rear recording is essential: While rivals may offer standard rear cameras at a similar price, the 622GW requires an optional rear camera add-on.
With its impressive video quality and comprehensive set of flagship features, the Nextbase 622GW is a strong contender as an all-around dash cam. In our tests, the 4K/30p footage was remarkably cinematic, offering sharp definition and exceptional detail. Low-light performance is enhanced by specialized algorithms, improving video quality in challenging conditions. When set to 1080p, it can record slow-motion footage at 120fps, useful for capturing license plate details and incident specifics. We were also impressed by the effective glare reduction from its built-in polarizing filter and the digital image stabilization, which minimized road vibration effects.
Our testing revealed that setup was slightly complex, and the 3-inch touchscreen requires deliberate swiping inputs. We also encountered some difficulty in establishing consistent smartphone connections for video transfer. Despite these minor issues, we found the 622GW generally user-friendly. Its interface is intuitive, and the display is large, sharp, and clear. Footage is automatically saved upon incident detection, and the what3words integration is a standout feature, enabling precise location sharing with emergency services. While the Nextbase iQ (mentioned above) offers even more advanced features, the 622GW is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable dash cam that consistently captures clear 4K video.
The Best Cheap 4K Dash Cam: Miofive S1 Ultra
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4. Miofive S1 Ultra
The best cheap 4K dash cam.
Explore our expert review of the Miofive S1 Ultra.
Key Specifications:
- Video Quality: 4K 30fps
- Viewing Angle: 140 degrees
- GPS Tracker: Yes
- Memory: microSD / cloud
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent 4K video footage with minimal noise.
- Fast video transfer using 5GHz Wi-Fi.
- Integrated GPS for location tracking.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Frame rate limited to 30fps even at Full HD.
- Windscreen mount could be improved.
- AI features are somewhat unnecessary.
Miofive S1 Ultra Sample Footage: [Link to Sample Footage (if available)]
Who Should Buy the Miofive S1 Ultra?
✅ For those seeking affordable 4K video: The Miofive S1 Ultra offers sharp 4K video quality with low noise levels at a very competitive price point.
✅ GPS is a must-have feature: Few dash cams in this price range include GPS, which adds crucial location data to recordings, essential for incident verification.
Who Should Avoid the Miofive S1 Ultra?
❌ Not for high frame rate enthusiasts: Video frame rates are capped at 30fps across all resolutions. Higher frame rates like 60fps provide smoother video capture.
❌ Avoid if uninterested in AI alerts: The AI features, such as driver alerts and harsh driving warnings, may feel superfluous to some users.
The Miofive S1 Ultra is available for under $100 / £100, a remarkable price for a 4K dash cam that includes GPS and fast 5GHz Wi-Fi for data transfer. This combination is rare at this price, especially considering the impressive video quality we observed in our tests. It delivers sharp, detailed 4K footage with excellent noise control in low light conditions.
If there’s one area for improvement, it would be the frame rate, which is capped at 30fps even at 1080p Full HD. Ideally, 60fps recording would be beneficial. However, otherwise, the S1 is hard to fault. It’s not the smallest dash cam, but we found it easy to set up and operate. There’s also an option to bundle it with Miofive’s rear dash cam (available in 2K and 4K). Considering its features and performance, the Miofive S1 Ultra is arguably the best 4K dash cam available for under $100 / £100.
Best 360-Degree Dash Cam: 70mai Dash Cam Omni
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5. 70mai Dash Cam Omni
Best omni-directional front dash cam.
Read our expert review of the 70mai Dash Cam Omni.
Key Specifications:
- Video Quality: 1080p up to 60fps
- Viewing Angle: 140 degrees, omnidirectional
- GPS Tracker: Yes
- Memory: eMMC built-in 32GB / 64GB or 128GB
Reasons to Buy:
- Unique 360-degree view coverage.
- High-resolution video recording.
- Records both video and audio.
- User-friendly voice controls.
- Affordable price point.
Reasons to Avoid:
- No cloud backup by default.
- Parking surveillance requires hardwiring.
- Difficult to remove from the windscreen once mounted.
70mai Omni Sample Footage: [Link to Sample Footage (if available)]
Who Should Buy the 70mai Dash Cam Omni?
✅ For those needing 360-degree coverage: The Omni rotates to provide full 360-degree coverage from a single point, filming in all directions.
✅ Users who appreciate a user-friendly experience: The Omni features charming, interactive display graphics and animations, enhancing user interaction.
Who Should Avoid the 70mai Dash Cam Omni?
❌ Not for 4K video quality seekers: With a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 Full HD up to 60fps, video quality is not as detailed as some competitors.
❌ Not ideal if automatic cloud syncing is needed: Cloud backup is available only through an optional 4G hardware kit.
The 70mai Omni is a uniquely designed dash cam, unlike any other. It features a single camera with a 140-degree field of view that rotates to provide a complete 360-degree view from its windshield position. This allows it to record forward-facing journeys like a standard dash cam, or rotate to film inside the vehicle cabin. Video resolution reaches 1080p at up to 60fps. While not the most detailed, we were impressed with the low-light performance of its f/1.8 lens during testing.
In our review, we found the Omni well-designed with a user-friendly interface, featuring fun graphics and animations on its display. It also includes AI-powered surveillance features for vehicle security, such as motion detection and threat-level processing. As a single-camera system, it’s exceptionally fun to use, and its list price is reasonable. However, automatic cloud backup requires purchasing an additional 4G hardware kit.
Best Dash Cam for Older Cars Without an Infotainment System: Garmin DriveCam 76
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6. Garmin DriveCam 76
Best for older cars without an infotainment system.
Read our comprehensive review of the Garmin DriveCam 76.
Key Specifications:
- Video Quality: 1080p Full HD
- Viewing Angle: 140 degrees
- GPS Tracker: Yes
- Memory: 16GB microSD (dash cam, included), microSD (not included)
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent user interface on a large display.
- Superior navigation compared to smartphones.
- Numerous useful connected features.
Reasons to Avoid:
- High price point.
- Dash cam video stability is subpar.
- Notification system can be overwhelming.
Garmin DriveCam 76 Sample Footage:
Garmin DriveCam 76 sample footage – YouTube
Watch Sample Footage on YouTube
Who Should Buy the Garmin DriveCam 76?
✅ Vehicles lacking an infotainment system: With features like mapping and forward collision warnings, the DriveCam 76 is ideal for older vehicles without these standard systems.
✅ Users wanting an all-in-one device: Combining a dash cam and sat nav reduces windshield clutter, providing a clearer view with fewer mounted devices.
Who Should Avoid the Garmin DriveCam 76?
❌ Not suitable for small windshields: Due to its larger size, the DashCam 76 might feel obstructive in vehicles with shallow windshields.
❌ Not recommended for budget-conscious buyers: Its extensive features come at a higher price. If you don’t need all the extras, standalone cameras offer better value.
Combining a dash cam and a sat nav, the Garmin DriveCam 76 is a feature-rich device designed for vehicles without modern infotainment systems. In our testing, the 7-inch display proved intuitive and easy to use. Garmin’s detailed mapping visuals are clear and navigation prompts are well-timed, enhanced by live traffic updates when paired with a smartphone data connection. The unit is larger than most dash cams, which can make placement challenging without obstructing the driver’s view. However, both the display angle and camera lens are adjustable to optimize positioning for both road view and driver comfort.
Full HD footage is recorded in HDR at 30fps, providing balanced exposure and sufficient detail for license plate readability. However, we noted noticeable stabilization wobble in the video. While detail isn’t compromised, the footage quality is less stable than other Garmin dash cams. If you don’t need smartphone notifications or weather updates, more cost-effective dash cam options are available. But for those seeking a smart dash cam with integrated navigation, the DriveCam 76 is an excellent choice.
Dash Cam Specs Comparison
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| Model | Video Resolution | Viewing Angle | GPS | Memory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nextbase iQ | 1080p/1440p/2160p (front) / 1080p/1440p (cabin) / 1440p (rear) | 140° (front) / 180° (cabin) / 140° (rear) | Yes | microSD / cloud |
| Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 | 1080p | 140° | No | microSD |
| Nextbase 622GW | 4K | 140° | Yes | microSD |
| Miofive S1 | 4K | 140° | Yes | microSD |
| 70mai Dash Cam Omni | 1080p | 140° | Yes | eMMC built-in 32/64/128GB |
| Garmin DriveCam 76 | 1080p | 140° | Yes | 16GB microSD (included) |
Other Dash Cams to Consider
Beyond our top picks, several other dash cams are worth considering, especially for specific needs:
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Nexar Pro: A five-star dual-camera system ideal for high-mileage drivers, recording both inside and outside the vehicle. While it records in 1080p rather than 4K, it includes unlimited cloud storage. Learn more about Nexar Pro.
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Vantrue E1: A well-rounded, compact dash cam offering crisp 2.5K video and 1080p at up to 60fps, with built-in GPS. Explore the Vantrue E1.
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Thinkware X1000: Unique with a large touchscreen and user-friendly interface, minimizing reliance on a companion app. Available as a dual-camera bundle, though it lacks built-in GPS. Discover the Thinkware X1000.
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Miofive Dual Dash Cam: If you like the Miofive S1, consider the dual-camera ‘Ultra’ version or Miofive’s high-end Dual Dash Cam, another five-star rated option. Check out the Miofive Dual Dash Cam.
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Vantrue N2 Pro: An excellent choice for ride-share drivers, offering interior and exterior recording. Read about the Vantrue N2 Pro.
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Viofo A229 Pro: Another top all-around dash cam known for its reliability and video quality. Explore the Viofo A229 Pro.
The Thinkware X1000 dash cam with its large touchscreen. (Image credit: Future)
How to Choose the Best Dash Cam for Your Car
Choosing the right dash cam involves considering several key features to match your specific needs. Dash cams come in single, dual, or triple camera configurations. Single camera models record the view ahead, while dual dash cams add an interior-facing camera, useful for ride-share drivers. Triple camera systems, often used by professional drivers, include an additional exterior camera, beneficial for trucks and larger vehicles.
Video Resolution:
Video resolution is crucial. Most modern dash cams record in Full HD, sufficient for capturing general details. 4K dash cams, though pricier, offer higher resolution, making it easier to discern critical details like license plates, enhancing safety and evidence quality.
Video Frame Rates:
Frame rates are also important. Most dash cams record at 30fps, adequate for standard playback. However, 60fps provides smoother video, especially useful for slow-motion analysis to capture finer details. 4K 60fps is typically found in professional-grade dash cams. Features like digital image stabilization, as in the Nextbase 622GW, help smooth out footage on rough roads.
Features to Consider:
Numerous features enhance dash cam functionality, including touchscreen displays, companion apps, GPS, parking surveillance, voice control, sat nav, and what3words geolocation. If your car lacks built-in navigation, a dash cam with sat nav can be valuable. GPS location data is useful for recording incident locations, and what3words offers precise geolocation for emergency situations.
Nextbase iQ dash cam mounted on a car windshield. (Image credit: Future)
Getting Started with Your Car Dash Cam
The ease of installation and use varies across dash cam models. Most dash cams are designed for windscreen mounting, ensuring they do not obstruct the driver’s view. Rear-facing cameras or complete front and rear kits require more complex installation, often involving routing cables through the car’s interior, sometimes under the headliner.
Dash cams record in short video clips, typically one to two minutes long. Loop recording ensures continuous operation by overwriting the oldest clips when the memory card is full. Older dash cams required manual saving of footage after an incident, but newer models use G-sensors to automatically detect and save incident footage.
Advanced features such as 4K resolution, night vision, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and voice control are increasingly common, adding to the cost. Voice control and Alexa integration are available in high-end models. Parking mode, using time-lapse or motion detection, provides surveillance while parked, capturing events like parking collisions.
Miofive Dual Dash Cam front camera. (Image credit: Future)
Is a Dash Cam Worth Having in Your Car?
Absolutely. While some drivers may be hesitant about in-vehicle cameras, modern dash cams like the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 are compact enough to be nearly invisible behind the rearview mirror. They operate silently, continuously monitoring and ready to record in case of an accident.
In the event of an incident, dash cam footage can be crucial evidence, proving innocence and providing details like speed, time, and date. Dash cams can also record rear-view footage, useful in rear-end collisions. Even if you’re not directly involved in an accident, a dash cam can record incidents or bad driving behavior, providing valuable evidence. Some dash cams also offer emergency services contact features in case of severe accidents.
Furthermore, many dash cams include driver assistance features, such as speed camera and red light camera alerts, and prompts for traffic flow. Permanently installed, hard-wired dash cams with parking mode can record incidents while parked, useful for documenting parking-related damages.
A dash camera discreetly mounted inside a car windscreen. (Image credit: Nexar)
Can a Dash Cam Drain Your Car Battery?
Dash cam power sources vary. Some have internal batteries or use external power. Most use the car’s cigarette lighter/USB port or require hardwiring, drawing power from the car battery. Dash cams powered via the cigarette lighter/USB port may drain the battery if left plugged in, depending on the car’s power supply to these ports when off. Hard-wired dash cams can be set to activate only with the ignition to conserve battery power.
For parking surveillance, consider dash cams with motion detection and use an external power source to avoid draining the car battery.
Adjusting a Nextbase dash cam in a car. (Image credit: Nextbase)
Is a GoPro Better Than a Dash Cam for Car Use?
GoPro cameras, among the best action cameras, can be mounted in cars and set to loop recording. Their compact size and 4K+ video capabilities are advantageous. However, dedicated dash cams offer features GoPros lack, such as collision detection and parking protection. GoPros also require manual start for each drive, even when powered by the car.
While GoPros can be used as dash cams with mounts, for comprehensive in-car video solutions, dedicated dash cams are generally more suitable. Learn how to use a GoPro as a dash cam.
70mai 4K A810 Dash Cam. (Image credit: Future)
Are Dash Cams Legal to Use?
Dash cam use is generally legal in the UK and the US, and encouraged by some bodies for insurance benefits. However, certain rules apply. Dash cams should not obstruct the driver’s view or cause distraction. US state laws vary regarding windshield mounting.
Privacy regulations are important. Recording is generally legal on public roads due to no reasonable expectation of privacy, but private property is different. For professional drivers, especially taxi drivers, informing passengers about dash cam recording, particularly audio, is essential. Some US states require consent for audio recording from all vehicle occupants.
Sharing dash cam footage online requires caution to avoid breaching data protection laws. Blurring faces and license plates is advisable. European countries have varying restrictions on dash cam use, so regional laws should be checked.
Nextbase 522GW dash cam mounted inside a car. (Image credit: Nextbase)
What is Loop Recording in Dash Cams?
Loop recording allows dash cams to continuously record, overwriting the oldest footage when storage is full. This ensures uninterrupted recording without manual deletion. Video is saved in short, sequential clips, typically 2-5 minute segments, which are overwritten in order. This also simplifies locating specific incidents without reviewing lengthy footage.
To prevent overwriting important clips, dash cams automatically detect incidents and protect the relevant footage. Manual tagging of clips is also usually possible via a button on the dash cam.
Meet Our Expert Review Team
Our team of reviewers brings together over a century of combined experience in camera technology and testing, covering the latest innovations over the past two decades.
Alistair Charlton
Alistair Charlton is a London-based freelance technology and automotive journalist, with a lifelong passion for cars and technology. He contributes to numerous publications including Wired, Forbes, and TechRadar, reviewing dash cams and other automotive technologies.
Rob Clymo
Rob Clymo, a veteran tech journalist, has covered technology for many years, from print to digital media. His work includes contributions to TechRadar, Tom’s Guide, and various automotive industry publications, focusing on automotive technology and transportation.
Tim Coleman
Tim Coleman is TechRadar’s Cameras Editor, overseeing all camera-related content. With 20 years in the photo and video industry, his expertise spans mirrorless cameras, smartphones, and dash cams, providing in-depth reviews and buying advice.
Leon Poultney
Leon Poultney has two decades of experience in the automotive and tech sectors, reporting on in-car tech and automotive innovations. Currently focused on electric vehicles, he also explores future transport technologies and enjoys classic motorcycles.
Paul Hatton
Paul Hatton is a digital expert with 20 years in tech and creative industries. With a Computer Science degree, he provides reviews and analysis for publications like Creative Bloq and Digital Camera World, offering broad tech expertise.
Our Dash Cam Testing Methodology
Garmin Dash Cam Tandem mounted on a car windshield. (Image credit: Future)
Our dash cam testing process ensures comprehensive and real-world evaluation. We install and use each dash cam in our vehicles as a typical user would. This involves windscreen mounting, smartphone pairing, and driving in diverse conditions, day and night, and in varying weather.
Footage is reviewed on smartphones and computers to assess video quality, clarity, and detail, including license plate legibility. We evaluate the ease of transferring, viewing, and saving footage.
Hands installing a dash cam in a car. (Image credit: Let Geo Create / Shutterstock)
Additional features like voice assistants and driver aids are thoroughly tested for functionality and ease of use. We assess the ease of adjusting settings and disabling features like audio recording. Collision detection is tested by simulating impacts, and g-sensor sensitivity is evaluated by driving over varied road surfaces.
Why You Can Trust TechRadar’s Dash Cam Reviews
TechRadar’s review team has extensive experience in testing consumer technology. With hundreds of camera product reviews, including numerous dash cams, our expertise ensures reliable and informed recommendations.
Each dash cam undergoes weeks of real-world testing across various driving conditions to assess ease of use, video quality, and connectivity. TechRadar has been committed to providing impartial and trustworthy tech reviews since 2008. For more on our editorial standards and commitment to independence, please visit our About Us page.
