Table of Contents
Best front and rear dash cams in 2024: two-way protection for you
A single dash cam recording the road ahead through your windscreen is certainly better than nothing (and you can check our guide to the best dash cams to find a suitable one)… But have you considered the benefits of having a second camera recording rearwards as well?
This is where the two-channel, front-and-rear dash cam system comes into play. By having cameras installed on both the front and rear screens, you can capture footage of the road ahead and the road behind, providing valuable evidence in determining fault in the event of a rear-end collision.
Often referred to as 2CH dash cams, these systems typically consist of a standard forward-facing camera paired with a smaller rear camera. While the resolution of the rear camera is usually lower than the front, it serves its purpose in giving you a complete picture. The rear camera is connected to the front camera via a long cable
Due to their design, two-channel dash cam systems often require professional installation. Alternatively, you can carefully tuck the long cable into the gaps between and behind the interior panels and roof lining of your car. Power is supplied either through a single cable connected to the front camera and your car’s 12v lighter socket or through a hardwiring kit that draws power from the vehicle’s fuse box. The latter option is best handled by a professional. Some two- or three-channel dash cams can also be powered by the car’s OBD port, which provides a more accessible and reliable source of constant power.
The rear camera is usually affixed to the rear screen using an adhesive pad. While some models offer a great deal of adjustability, others require careful positioning to achieve the perfect view. Although rare, there are a few dash cams where the rear camera is weather-resistant and designed to be attached to the rear of the car, preferably close to the license plate.
Although inherently more expensive than a single-channel dash cam, front-and-rear systems are available at various price points, ranging from under $50 to over $500. Additionally, it is possible to purchase a front-facing dash cam initially and later expand the system by adding a compatible rear camera.
If you’re only interested in recording the front of your vehicle, we also have a guide to the best dash cams for single-direction recording. And if you’re looking to save some money, we also provide a guide to the best budget dash cams.
The Ultimate Dash Cam Buying Guide: Expert-Tested Recommendations
How to choose the best dash cam for you
The best dash cams can have one, two, or even three cameras. Single-camera dash cams record the outside view from your windshield, while dual dash cams add an inside-facing camera, which is especially useful for ride-share drivers like taxis. Three-camera dash cams are designed for professional drivers, adding an additional viewpoint from the outside of the vehicle, which is particularly handy for trucks.
Video resolution is a crucial factor when choosing a dash cam. Most dash cams in 2024 can record footage in Full HD, sufficient to identify large details in a video clip. Sharper 4K dash cams tend to be pricier but capture video at a higher resolution, making it easier to pull out crucial details such as number plates, offering more reassurance from a safety perspective.
Video frame rates are also important. While most dash cams can record at 30fps, the best models capture action at a smoother 60fps, allowing for easier detail pickup at half-speed. It’s becoming common to find dash cams that can capture Full HD video at 60fps, while 4K 60fps recording is generally reserved for professional dash cams. Some models also feature digital image stabilization to smooth out footage on bumpy roads, such as the Nextbase 622GW.
There are a variety of features to consider, including a touchscreen display, a companion app, GPS, parking surveillance, voice control, sat nav, and what3words. If you drive an older car without an infotainment system, then it’s worth getting a dash cam with sat nav. GPS location data is handy when recording incidents, with some even including what3words geolocation data, offering the most precise way of pinpointing your vehicle and proving super handy should you become stranded.
Is it worth having a dash cam?
Undoubtedly, some drivers may feel uneasy about the notion of having a camera constantly monitoring their vehicle. However, certain models of dash cams, such as the discreet and compact Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2, are designed to blend almost seamlessly with the rearview mirror, offering unobtrusive surveillance. Once in operation, these cameras become inconspicuous guardians, silently overseeing the road and standing ready to capture crucial footage in the event of an accident.
In a worst-case scenario where you need to establish your innocence, the dash cam’s footage can serve as irrefutable evidence. It can include key details like your speed, as well as the time and date, bolstering the credibility of your evidence in the face of any dispute. Moreover, in addition to monitoring the road ahead, dash cams can also record through the rear windscreen, providing valuable documentation if you’re rear-ended by another driver.
Even if you’re not directly involved in a collision, a dash cam remains a valuable asset. Many models come equipped with a quick-save button for capturing and preserving the most recent moments of video. This functionality allows you to record noteworthy incidents, such as accidents between other vehicles or instances of reckless driving, offering crucial evidence when needed. Some dash cams even feature an automatic emergency response system, which can notify the authorities of a crash and provide your location if you’re unable to respond, ensuring that help is on the way.
Furthermore, numerous dash cams offer additional driver assistance features, including alerts for nearby speed and red light cameras, as well as notifications for the movement of vehicles in front of you, particularly helpful for alertness during traffic.
Lastly, certain dash cams can be permanently installed and hard-wired in your vehicle, providing continuous power. Combined with a specialized parking mode, this setup allows the camera to detect impacts and record footage while your car is parked, potentially capturing evidence of poor parking or other incidents involving your vehicle.
Can a dash cam drain your car battery?
There is a variety of power sources for dash cams, and it’s essential to understand how your new dash cam is powered to avoid draining your car’s battery. Some dash cams have internal power or can be charged using external sources, while others rely on the car’s battery through the cigarette lighter/USB port or hard-wiring.
Leaving a dash cam plugged in overnight through the cigarette lighter/USB port can potentially drain your car battery, especially if your vehicle supplies constant power to the ports. However, hard-wired dash cams can be optimized to turn on with the car ignition in certain vehicles to preserve battery life.
If security is a priority for you, consider selecting a dash cam with motion detection and using an external power source to ensure that your car’s battery remains unaffected.
The Quick List
REDTIGER Dash Cam Front Rear, 4K/2.5K Full HD Dash Camera for Cars
The REDTIGER F7NP dual dash cam offers 4K Ultra HD and FHD 1080P recording with wide-angle lenses for detailed coverage. It features superior night vision, WiFi/SMART APP CONTROL for easy management via the “Redtiger” app, and built-in GPS for route tracking. Its accident recording features include Loop Recording and a G-sensor, and it has a 24-hour parking monitor. Comes with a 1-year warranty and 24/7 technical support.
Video Resolution: Ultra HD 4K (3840*2160P) + FHD 1080P
Front Camera Wide Angle: 170 degrees
Rear Camera Wide Angle: 140 degrees
Aperture: F1.5
Lens: 6-layer optical lens
Connectivity: WiFi for wireless connection to smartphones
GPS: Built-in GPS for route, real-time speed, and location tracking
Additional Features: Loop Recording, G-sensor for collision detection, 24-hour parking monitor with time lapse function, 1-year warranty, 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, 24/7 technical support.
For Road Safety: Document accidents and provide evidence in case of collisions or violations.
For Convenience and Peace of Mind: Monitor the car while parked for 24 hours to ensure its safety and the safety of its contents.
For Travel Enjoyment: Record travel moments and beautiful landscapes to share with friends and family.
For Driving Behavior Analysis: Analyze driving patterns to improve safety and security.
For Theft Protection: Document suspicious activities or theft attempts while parked in continuous monitoring mode.
Pros:
High-quality recording
Wide-angle coverage
Excellent night vision
Remote control via app
Built-in GPS
Advanced features like automatic recording and parking monitoring
Cons:
Need for additional hardware kit for 24-hour parking monitoring
Learning curve for app usage.
Vantrue N4 3 Channel Dash Cam, 4K+1080P Front and Rear
The Vantrue N4 is a triple channel dash cam designed to monitor the front, rear, and interior of your vehicle simultaneously. It offers high-resolution recording, infrared night vision, and a 24-hour parking mode. The camera is heat resistant and powered by a super capacitor, ensuring durability in extreme weather conditions. With variable sensitivity G-sensor and loop recording, it provides reliable evidence in case of accidents. The N4 comes with an 18-month warranty and customer support.
Triple Channel Dash Cam: Front, inside, and rear cameras with 155°, 165°, and 160° angles respectively.
Resolution: 4K+1080P front and rear, 1440P+1440P inside, and 1080P audio.
Adjustability: Rear camera adjustable up to 360° with a 20ft extension cable.
Night Vision: High-performance STARVIS CMOS sensor and infrared night vision.
Parking Mode: Low bitrate recording for continuous monitoring, motion or collision detection mode.
Weather Resistance: Super capacitor withstands extreme temperatures from 14°F to 158°F.
Storage: Supports up to 512GB of external memory.
Comprehensive Monitoring: Ideal for monitoring the front, rear, and interior of your vehicle, providing comprehensive coverage and security.
Rideshare Drivers: Perfect for rideshare drivers like Uber, Lyft, and Taxi, who may need to record both the road and the interior of the vehicle for safety and security.
Personal Security: Offers peace of mind for personal safety and security, capturing evidence of accidents or incidents that occur in or around the vehicle.
Pros:
Comprehensive triple channel monitoring.
High-resolution recording.
Infrared night vision for clear footage in low light conditions.
Reliable parking mode with motion and collision detection.
Heat resistant and durable design.
Extensive warranty and customer support.
Cons:
Additional hardware required for parking mode.
No WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity.
Miden S7 2.5K Dash Cam Front and Rear, 64G SD, FHD Dual Dash Camera for Cars
The Miden S7 is a dual dash cam system designed for front and rear recording, providing high-quality video footage for enhanced driving safety and security. It features a 2.5K front camera and a 1080P rear camera, along with a wide-angle lens and a large IPS screen for clear viewing. With advanced features like G-sensor, parking monitor, and night vision, the Miden S7 offers comprehensive protection for your vehicle.
Dual Recording: Records Ultra HD 2.5K front video and FHD 1080P rear video.
Wide Angle: 176° front camera angle and 160° waterproof rear camera angle.
Screen: Large 3.2-inch IPS screen for clear display and easy operation.
Material: Made of professional aviation aluminum alloy for durability and heat dissipation.
Cyclic Recording: Continuously records and overwrites old video when the microSD card is full.
G-Sensor: Automatically records and saves videos in emergency situations.
Night Vision: Features a f1.5 aperture and WDR technology for clear footage in low light conditions.
Parking Monitor: Automatically starts recording when vibration is detected, providing 24-hour protection.
Driving Safety: Provides clear video evidence for accidents and incidents, ensuring driving safety and security.
Vehicle Monitoring: Monitors the front and rear of the vehicle, capturing important details like license plates and road signs.
Parking Protection: Activates parking mode to record any activity or attempts of theft while the vehicle is parked.
Pros:
High-quality dual recording for front and rear views.
Wide-angle lenses for comprehensive coverage.
Durable aluminum alloy construction with excellent heat dissipation.
Advanced features like G-sensor and parking monitor for added security.
Easy to install and operate.
Comes with 64G SD card and USB card reader for convenient data transfer.
Cons:
May not have built-in WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity.
No mention of compatibility with larger SD card capacities beyond 64GB.
SUVCON J06 Dash Cam Front and Inside, Triple Dash Cam
The Dash Cam, 3 Channel Dash Cam, 1080P Dash Cam Front and Inside is a comprehensive triple dash camera system designed to enhance vehicle safety and security. It features a 170° wide-angle front camera, a 150° cabin camera, and a 150° waterproof rear camera, ensuring minimal blind spots and clear evidence in case of accidents. With advanced features like G-sensor, loop recording, HDR, and night vision, this dash cam offers reliable performance and ease of use.
Triple Dash Cam: Includes a 170° wide-angle front camera, a 150° cabin camera, and a 150° waterproof rear camera, reducing blind spots for comprehensive coverage.
Video Quality: Records Ultra HD 2.5K (2560 x 1600P) front video and FHD 1080P rear video, ensuring clear footage for evidence.
Screen: Features a 3.2” IPS screen, providing a clear picture at any angle without blurring.
G-Sensor & Parking Monitor: Built-in G-sensor activates emergency recording and locks recorded videos in case of sudden shakes or collisions. Parking monitor automatically records when the car is stationary.
Loop Recording: Automatically overwrites the oldest video when storage limit is reached, recording in 1-3 minute intervals.
Night Vision & WDR Technology: Infrared LED lights and HDR technology provide clear footage under low light conditions and adjust exposure for balanced images.
Easy Installation: Plug and play setup, easy mounting on the windshield, and user-friendly settings.
Manufacturer: SUVCON
Brand: SUVCON
Model: J06 Dash Cam
Item Weight: 13.7 ounces
Product Dimensions: 7.48 x 5.1 x 2.55 inches
Item model number: J06
Manufacturer Part Number: J08
Position: Front Inside
Special Features: 3 Channel Dash Cam Front Inside and rear, Night Vision, HDR, Loop Recording, G-sensor, Parking Monitor
Dash Cam Front and cabin *1
11.48ft Car Charger *1
Adjustable Suction Mount *1
Rear Camera with 19.68ft Cable *1
Wire Trim Tool *1
User Manual, Cable Hiding Clip *4
32GB Memory Card *1
Mini USB Cable *1
Pros:
Comprehensive triple-channel dash cam system.
High-resolution video recording with clear night vision.
Advanced features like G-sensor and parking monitor for enhanced security.
Easy to install and use.
Cons:
Limited information provided about specific technical details like processor or sensor type.
The memory card capacity may not be expandable beyond 32GB
Sarmert M572 Dash Cam Front and Rear - 2024 4K/1080P Dash Camera for Cars
The Dash Cam Front and Rear – Sarmert 2024 is an upgraded dual dash camera system designed to capture high-quality footage of your driving experience. With real 4K recording, super night vision, and a wide range of features including parking modes and loop recording, this dash cam provides comprehensive protection for your vehicle.
Real 4K Recording: Records in UHD 3840*2160P front and FHD 1080P rear, providing clear footage of street signs, license plates, and other road information.
Wide-Angle Lens: Achieves a 170° field of view, covering more than 3 lanes and reducing shooting blind spots.
Super Night Vision: Upgraded aperture lens and image sensor ensure clear recording even in low-light conditions, combined with WDR technology for balanced images.
High-Speed Transmission: Features 5G/2.4GHz dual-band WiFi for fast transmission, allowing real-time preview, playback, download, or sharing of videos via the “Oncam” app.
Parking Modes: Automatically switches to parking mode when the car is parked, offering both time-lapse and impact detection parking modes.
Multifunction Design: Supports loop recording, 24-hour parking mode, G-Sensor, time-lapse video, and emergency video lock. Compatible with SD cards up to 256GB (sold separately).
Easy Installation: Quick and easy setup, magnetic base, and Type C port design for easy plug and unplug. Rear camera supports flexible rotation. 3.18” IPS Screen display without any reflection, and compact size ensures it doesn’t block the driver’s view.
Warranty & Support: Built-in supercapacitor extends service life, withstands extreme temperatures. Comes with a 12-month worry-free warranty and online 24-hour customer support.
Model Name: M572
Orientation: Front and Rear
Vehicle Service Type: Uber, SUV, Car, Taxi, Vehicles, Truck
Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi
Special Feature: Supercapacitor, Over-The-Air Firmware Updates, WDR, Loop Cycle Recording, G-Sensor, Parking Monitor, Emergency Video Lock, Automatic Incident Detection, Front and Rear Resolution 4K+1080P/ 2K+1080P, Dual Band 5G/2.4GHz Wi-Fi, IPS Screen Display, Free Oncam App
Video Capture Resolution: 1080p, 4K
Mounting Type: Windshield Mount
1*4K Front Camera
1*1080P In-car Rear Camera (Cable 6m/20ft)
1*Type-C USB Cigarette Lighter Power Cable (3.5m/12ft)
1*Magnetic Holder
4*Electrostatic Films
5*Cable Clips
1*Pry Tool
1*User Manual
12-Month Reliable Warranty
Pros:
Real 4K recording with upgraded night vision for clear footage.
Dual-band WiFi for fast transmission and easy access via the “Oncam” app.
Comprehensive parking modes and multifunction design for enhanced security.
Easy to install and use with a compact and unobtrusive design.
Cons:
Requires power from the cigarette lighter port at all times during use.
Micro SD card not included and requires formatting before first use.
Rear camera rotation may require adjustment during use.
Limited Wi-Fi signal range (best within 25 feet).
ROVE R3 Dash Cam Front and Rear with Cabin, Touch Screen, IR Night Vision
Beautifully Designed and User-Friendly Interface: Sleek design with a single power button for seamless access to features.
All the Bells and Whistles: 3″ IPS touch screen, 3-channel recording, ROVE apps for iOS and Android, dual-band WiFi, built-in GPS, voice guidance, supercapacitor.
More Features: 24-hour parking monitor, G-Sensor, loop recording, digital image stabilization, f1.4 lens aperture, wide dynamic range, IR LEDs, USB Type C ports, fast dual USB charger, time-lapse video, and more.
Enhanced User Experience: Seamless video viewing on smartphones with 5.0GHz WiFi and ROVE apps, providing a unique and intuitive experience.
Brand: ROVE
Model Name: R3
Orientation: Front, Rear, and Inside
Vehicle Service Type: Minivan, Bus, SUV, Car, Truck
Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi, USB
Special Features: Super Capacitor, 3″ IPS Touch Screen, Dual Band WiFi (5.0 & 2.4GHz), Voice Guidance, 3-Channel Recording
Video Capture Resolution: 1080p, 1440p
Included Components: R3 Dash Cam (Primary), Rear Cam, Dual USB Fast Car Charger, Windshield Suction Mount, Magnetic Mount, Power Cable (12ft), USB-C Data Cable (3ft), Rear Cam Extension Cable (19.6ft), User Manual, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card, Cable Clips, Crowbar, Sticky Tapes, Electrostatic Films, Wet Cleaning Pads
Mounting Type: Windshield Mount
R3 Dash Cam (Primary), Rear Cam
Dual USB Fast Car Charger, Windshield Suction Mount, Magnetic Mount
Power Cable (12ft), USB-C Data Cable (3ft), Rear Cam Extension Cable (19.6ft)
Cable Clips, Crowbar, Sticky Tapes, Electrostatic Films, Wet Cleaning Pads
User Manual, Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card
Pros:
Sleek and user-friendly design
3-channel recording for comprehensive coverage
Dual-band WiFi for fast transfer speeds
Built-in GPS for live speed and location stamps
Supercapacitor for safety and longer product life
Cons:
Memory card not included
Requires meticulous setup for optimal use
How We Test Dash Cams
Nearly all dash cams can be installed in a car without any permanent modifications. They can be mounted on a windshield using a suction cup or removable adhesive pad, and powered from a USB port or the 12V socket commonly found in cars. To test dash cams, we install them in our own vehicle, mount them on the windshield, and connect them to our smartphone as if they were our personal purchase.
We then drive during both daytime and nighttime to evaluate how the camera handles different lighting conditions and ideally varied weather. Afterward, the footage is transferred to a smartphone or computer for examination of the quality and legibility of key details, such as vehicle registration plates. This process also allows us to assess how easy (or difficult) it is to view, transfer, and save recorded footage.
We thoroughly test additional features like voice assistants and driving assistance systems, and also assess the ease of turning them off or adjusting them to personal preferences. The ability to quickly and easily deactivate audio recording is particularly important, especially when passengers prefer not to have their conversations recorded.
While we cannot intentionally crash a vehicle to gauge the dash cam’s collision detection, we simulate a collision by firmly tapping the dash cam to see how the footage is saved. Triggering a recording by powering the camera with a portable battery and tapping it against a desk also allows us to assess its functionality. Though this approach may seem basic, it effectively ensures accurate recording and keeps our insurance company satisfied.
At times, driving over an aggressive speed bump may inadvertently trigger a dash cam recording. These instances help us determine if the camera’s g-sensor is overly sensitive and whether adjustments are needed, provided that the menu system includes such an option.
Are dash cams legal?
Using a dash cam is completely legal in both the UK and the US, and in fact, authorities in both countries actively encourage their use to lower insurance premiums. However, there are important guidelines to adhere to in order to ensure compliance with the law.
Firstly, it’s crucial to choose a dash cam that doesn’t obstruct your view of the road or cause distraction while driving. Some prefer models without displays for this reason. Additionally, in the US, many states have specific rules about where dash cams can be mounted, with some prohibiting placement on windshields.
Privacy regulations are also a key consideration. While recording with a dash cam on public roads is generally allowed due to the lack of privacy expectation, the rules change on private property. It’s important to exercise reason and discretion in recording, especially for professional drivers like taxi drivers who should inform passengers about the dash cam, especially if it’s recording audio.
Moreover, sharing dash cam footage online requires caution to avoid breaching data protection laws. It’s advisable to blur identifying details such as registration plates and faces before publishing any clips.
Lastly, it’s essential to note that several European countries have restrictions on dash cam use, so it’s important to familiarize oneself with regional regulations.
Is a GoPro better than a dash cam?
GoPro cameras are renowned for being top-notch action cameras. They can be effortlessly mounted on your dashboard and set to record videos on a continuous loop. Due to their compact size, they won’t obstruct your view of the road. Moreover, the latest models can even capture videos with resolutions exceeding 4K.
However, there are certain aspects that make a dedicated dash cam superior to a GoPro for recording the road. Surprisingly, the price difference between a GoPro Hero 11 Black and a premium dash cam, such as the Nextbase 622GW, is smaller than expected. Yet, what you won’t get with a GoPro camera are the advanced features commonly found in high-spec dash cams, like collision detection or parking protection. Additionally, with a GoPro, you must manually set it to record every time you get behind the wheel, even if it’s connected to your vehicle’s power cable.
Therefore, if you already own a GoPro, it’s convenient to pair it with a dashboard mount or windshield suction cup to record videos while driving. We even have a specialized guide on using a GoPro as a dash cam for your car. Nonetheless, if you seek a comprehensive solution for capturing in-car videos, it’s worth considering a dedicated dash cam.
