A dash camera, or dashcam, is a device designed to record events while driving. As car ownership continues to rise, traffic accidents have become increasingly common. In the event of a collision, dashcam footage can provide crucial evidence for police investigations, helping to reconstruct events and determine responsibility. Much like a black box in an airplane, a dash camera plays a vital role in ensuring driving safety and accountability.

Although dash cameras are relatively affordable, many drivers struggle with selecting the right one from the countless models available on the market. So, what defines a good dash camera? Let’s walk through a few common misconceptions and practical tips to help you make an informed choice.

Does Higher Resolution Mean Better Quality?

While many dashcams now offer 1080p resolution as standard, higher resolutions such as 2K or 4K may seem like an obvious upgrade. However, this isn’t always necessary. Full HD (1080p) is sufficient for most daily driving needs. Higher resolution videos take up more storage space and increase the number of read/write cycles on memory cards, potentially reducing their lifespan. Additionally, high-resolution sensors may perform worse in low-light conditions due to smaller pixel sizes, negatively impacting night vision.

Is a Larger Memory Card Always Better?

It’s easy to assume that a larger memory card is better, but 32GB is often sufficient. For example, with a daily commute of around 100 minutes, a 32GB card can store roughly 300 minutes of 1080p footage—enough for about three days of recordings. More important than capacity is card quality. Cheaper memory cards may fail in high-temperature conditions. Look for cards that are rated for use in extreme environments, both hot and cold.

Can License Plate Clarity Define a Good Dashcam?

Capturing a clear license plate depends on more than just camera resolution. Factors such as vehicle speed, lighting, distance, and road conditions all affect image clarity. Even a 720p dashcam can capture license plates clearly when the vehicle ahead is stationary within 3 meters. However, in motion or poor lighting, even high-end models can struggle.

Is a Wider Angle Always Better?

Many dashcams advertise wide-angle lenses to reduce blind spots. However, an excessively wide angle can lead to distortion, making objects at the edge of the frame appear stretched or warped. A viewing angle between 120 and 150 degrees usually offers a good balance between field of view and image accuracy.

Which Installation Type is Best?

There are three common dashcam types, each with their own pros and cons:

a. Card-Type Dash Camera

This traditional design includes a front-facing camera and a rear display screen. It’s compact and easy to install using a suction cup. However, suction mounts may become unstable over time, especially in hot weather, leading to frequent falls. Large screens can also obstruct the driver’s view, while small screens may limit usability.

b. Rearview Mirror Dash Camera

These dashcams clip onto your existing rearview mirror and often feature large screens for better video playback. They are more securely mounted and usually offer better aesthetics. However, some models use low-cost blue mirrors that reduce visibility at night. High-quality models use white mirrors, which maintain or exceed original mirror clarity.

c. Hidden (Screenless) Dash Camera

These models omit a screen, resulting in a more discreet and compact design. They don’t obstruct the driver’s view and are harder to notice from outside the car. However, without a screen, real-time playback is unavailable unless the device supports Wi-Fi connectivity for smartphone pairing. If wireless connectivity fails, accessing footage may become difficult.

Final Thoughts: Choose What Fits Your Needs

Other elements such as sensor quality, lens construction, and chipset also significantly impact video quality and reliability—and often justify the price difference. So, what makes a good dash camera? The answer depends on your needs. The best dashcam is the one that balances essential features with your specific driving habits and environment.

Why Choose Jimi IoT?

With years of experience in developing and manufacturing vehicle DVRs, Jimi IoT offers a wide range of dash cameras to suit every budget, application, and vehicle type. Whether you need high-resolution recording, multi-channel setups, or discreet installations, we provide expert recommendations tailored to your needs. Contact us today to find the ideal solution for your vehicle or fleet.