Dash cams are essential for capturing what happens on the road. High-quality footage is the primary function, and the models recommended below excel in that area. Many also offer extra features, such as GPS and parking surveillance. Which features you need will depend on your budget and intended use of the camera, so we’ve divided our guide based on different needs.
Based on our comprehensive real-world testing, the Nextbase iQ is a top recommendation. It’s a full-featured system for in-car recording with a range of smart, connected features. However, for some buyers, this may prove to be too much. If you’re seeking an affordable, dependable dash cam, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is a solid choice.
Our team of experts has dedicated countless hours to testing various types of dash cams. We assess each model in a variety of real-world conditions, from initial setup to nighttime driving. Our ranked list is built upon the results of these reviews.
Written by Timothy Coleman, TechRadar’s Cameras Editor. Tim has over 15 years’ experience in the photographic and video industries as both a freelance photographer and tech journalist. He has reviewed a variety of photography equipment, which includes many of the best dash cams. Tim explains that “many of the dash cams in this list have advanced features, such as GPS, surveillance, and driver assistance modes. If you don’t need these tools, you can save money by choosing a simpler model.”
Top 3 Picks
Here’s a quick rundown of our top dash cam recommendations for every driver and budget. Click the links to jump to the full review.
- Best smart: Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam.
- Best value: Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3
- Best all-rounder: Nextbase 622GW
The Best Dash Cam in 2024
Below are the complete reviews for each of the best dash cams on our list, with comprehensive testing to ensure our recommendations are trustworthy.
The Best Smart Dash Cam
-
Nextbase iQ: The best next-gen dash cam with smart features
Our expert review:
-
Specifications:
- Video quality: 1080p/1440p/2160p (front) / 1080p/1440p (cabin) / 1440p (rear)
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees (front) / 180 degrees (cabin) / 140 degrees (rear)
- GPS tracker: Yes
- Memory: microSD / cloud
-
Reasons to buy:
- Comprehensive all-in-one solution
- Impressive smart features
- Well-designed and well-made
-
Reasons to avoid:
- Full feature set may overwhelm some users
- Free subscription version lacks features
- Subscription costs can add up
The Nextbase iQ is as feature-packed as dash cams come. It’s a premium solution that comes in 1K, 2K, and 4K variants, complete with a suite of connected features. This includes parking assistance, a voice-activated Witness Mode, the ability to check your car via the Nextbase iQ app, as well as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS connectivity. All three versions include an interior-facing camera, and there’s an optional rear-facing unit available, too. To get the full potential of its abilities, you will need a paid subscription, which means the iQ can quickly become costly. Our tests proved that it’s an impressive camera. The setup was simple, and the app made it easy to access many features. Audio and video recordings from our 4K review unit were excellent. Because the unit is powered directly from the car battery, the system remains active even when the engine is off. Many road users will find it to be overkill, but if you want a comprehensive, all-in-one camera to monitor your car at all times like a smart surveillance camera for your car, the Nextbase iQ is highly recommended.
Buy it if:
-
You want an all-in-one dash cam that offers a full suite of safety/security features.
-
You want a future-proof model, since firmware updates are on the way that will add extra functionality. Don’t buy it if:
-
You don’t need a complex camera; if you only want straightforward video recording, there are more affordable options.
-
You want a subscription-free dash cam: Basic modes are free, but you’ll need the subscription to get the full set of Nextbase iQ features.
-
The Best Budget Dash Cam
-
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3: The best budget dash cam
Our expert review:
- Specifications:
- Video quality: 1080p
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees
- GPS tracker: No
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
- Reasons to buy:
- Compact design
- High-quality footage
- Polarizing lens
- Simple interface
- Reasons to avoid:
- Minor incremental improvements
- No GPS
- No screen
- MicroSD is not included
If you are looking for a small, simple dash cam that’s easy to set up and then leave alone, then the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is a recommendation. Its compact dimensions allow it to be discreetly hidden behind the rearview mirror, while the simple interface makes it easy to use and set up. Furthermore, it captures high-quality Full HD video with HDR. Much the same can be said for the Dash Cam Mini 2, so if you already own one, there’s not much reason to upgrade. Like the Mini 2, there is no GPS or display. Controls are handled using the Garmin Drive app, which is very effective for reviewing footage and modifying settings. The new features include a landscape design and a built-in polarizing filter. The filter is designed to minimize windshield reflections. If you are purchasing your first dash cam, or if you are looking for a smaller one, the Dash Cam Mini 3 fulfills its purpose.
Buy it if:
-
You want a discreet dash cam: Compact proportions mean it can hide behind your rearview mirror, so forward visibility isn’t impacted.
-
You prefer a simple setup: Garmin kept the Mini 3 simple so it’s easy to install and runs flawlessly in the background. Don’t buy it if:
-
You already own the Dash Cam Mini 2: The polarizing filter and landscape redesign are the only upgrades.
-
You need 4K video footage: The Mini 3 is limited to 1080p Full HD; for higher-resolution video, you’ll need to spend more.
- Specifications:
The Best All-Rounder Dash Cam
-
Nextbase 622GW: The best all-rounder dash cam
Our expert review:
- Specifications:
- Video quality: 4K
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees
- GPS tracker: Yes
- Memory: MicroSD card (not included)
- Reasons to buy:
- Excellent image quality
- Great performance in poor weather
- Intuitive interface
- Simple incident recording and storage
- Reasons to avoid:
- Rear camera requires wiring
- Fairly bulky
- Requires a large SD card
- The app experience can be frustrating
With impressive video and flagship features, the Nextbase 622GW does a lot well. Its 4K/30p footage is nearly cinematic, with outstanding detail and crisp definition. Low-light algorithms also improve results in tricky conditions. Drop down to 1080p, and you can shoot 120fps slow motion, which makes it simpler to pinpoint details, like registration numbers. The built-in polarizing filter effectively reduces windscreen glare, and digital image stabilization lessens road vibrations. Our tests revealed that the setup was a bit fiddly, and the 3-inch touchscreen requires very clear swipe inputs. We had a bit of trouble when connecting to smartphones to transfer video clips. The 622GW is an overall simple camera to use. The interface is intuitive, while the display is big, sharp, and clear. When an incident is detected, footage is saved automatically, and the 622GW can pinpoint the location of stricken vehicles using what3words, then send the location to emergency vehicles. The Nextbase iQ (above) is even smarter, but if you want a 4K dash cam that reliably captures video, the 622GW is a solid choice.
Buy it if:
-
You want emergency services on call: Thanks to what3words integration, the 622GW can pinpoint your location and instantly pass this information to emergency services.
-
You want sharp video footage: Harnessing a quad-core processor and six-layer f/1.3 lens, the 622GW can capture impressively detailed 4K footage. Don’t buy it if:
-
You want seamless connectivity: Connecting to a smartphone isn’t always straightforward; the Wi-Fi connection often fails.
-
You want built-in rear recording: The 622GW offers rear-view cameras as standard.
- Specifications:
The Best Cheap 4K Dash Cam
-
Miofive S1: The best cheap 4K dash cam
Our expert review:
- Specifications:
- Video quality: 4K 30fps
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees (front)
- GPS tracker: Yes
- Memory: microSD / cloud
- Reasons to buy:
- Good 4K footage with little noise
- Fast video transfer with 5GHz Wi-Fi
- Integrated GPS
- Reasons to avoid:
- Frame rate limited to 30 fps, even at Full HD
- Windscreen mount could be better
- AI functions feel unnecessary
You can pick up the Miofive S1 for well under $100 / £100. That’s impressive when you consider that it’s a 4K dash cam equipped with GPS and a 5GHz Wi-Fi connection for fast data transfers. It’s a rare combo at this price point, particularly when you consider its impressive video footage. With sharp detail and admirable noise control in low light, this is a real contender. If there’s one thing we’d improve, it would be the ability to record at 60fps – even if just in Full HD 1080p. Sadly the S1 is capped at 30fps. Otherwise, the S1 is difficult to criticize. While it’s not the smallest dash cam in that price bracket, setup is easy. There’s also the option to bundle it with a Miofive rear dash cam (2K and 4K versions) to capture every angle. Considering all of this, it’s the best 4K dash cam you can find for less than $100.
Buy it if:
-
You want 4K video for less because the footage is sharp, with little noise.
-
GPS is a must; not many dash cams at this price include GPS, which adds crucial data to each recording and can be invaluable. Don’t buy it if:
-
You want high frame rates with the S1’s video rates capped at 30fps.
-
You would rather avoid AI alerts.
- Specifications:
Best 360 degree
-
70mai Dash Cam Omni: Best omni-directional front dash cam
Our expert review:
- Specifications:
- Video quality: 1080p up to 60fps
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees, omnidireactional
- GPS tracker: Yes
- Memory: eMMC built-in 32GB / 64GB or 128GB
- Reasons to buy:
- 360-degree viewing
- High-resolution video
- Records both video and audio
- User-friendly voice controls
- Affordable
- Reasons to avoid:
- No default cloud backup
- Parking surveillance requires hardwiring
- Difficult to remove from windscreen
There’s no dash cam quite like the 70mai Omni. It’s a single camera with a 140-degree field of view and a trick up its sleeve: it can rotate to provide 360-degree coverage from its position on the windshield. That allows you to record your journey out the front like any other dash cam, or turn to film the inside of your vehicle. Video resolution tops out at 1080p up to 60fps, so footage isn’t incredibly detailed, but low-light performance from the f/1.8 lens in our tests impressed us. We found the Omni well-designed with a user-friendly experience, complete with fun graphics and animations on the display when you interact with it. It also benefits from AI-powered surveillance features, such as motion detection and threat-level processing, to keep your vehicle safe. As single dash cams go, this is one of the most enjoyable to use, and the list price is reasonable – though you’ll need to buy the 4G hardware kit if you want to back up to the cloud automatically.
Buy it if:
-
You’d like 360-degree coverage, because the Omni can rotate for full coverage.
-
You enjoy a user-friendly experience, and it features charming ‘human-like’ display graphics. Don’t buy it if:
-
You need 4K video quality, which is bettered elsewhere.
-
Auto syncing your footage to the cloud is important.
- Specifications:
Best for Older Cars Without an Infotainment System
-
Garmin DriveCam 76: Best for older cars without an infotainment system
Our expert review:
- Specifications:
- Video quality: 1080p
- Viewing angle: 140 degrees
- GPS tracker: Yes
- Memory: 16GB microSD (dash cam, included), microSD (not included)
- Reasons to buy:
- Great user interface
- Better navigation than a smartphone
- Lots of useful connected features
- Reasons to avoid:
- Expensive
- Poor dash cam video stability
- Notification system feels like overkill
Combining a dash cam and a sat nav, the Garmin DriveCam 76 is a feature-packed tool for vehicles without an infotainment system. Its 7-inch display is intuitive to use, and also makes Garmin’s mapping visuals easy to follow. Navigation is clear and well-timed. The display is also complemented by live traffic updates if paired with your smartphone’s data connection. The unit is larger than many rivals, which potentially obstructs the driver’s view, which can be difficult to place in a vehicle with a shallow windscreen. The display angle and camera lens can be adjusted, so you can find the right position between road and driver. Full HD footage is shot in HDR at 30fps, delivering balanced exposure and enough detail to make number plates legible. Video suffers from noticeable stabilization wobble. This distortion doesn’t reduce the detail, but footage is worse than from other Garmin dash cams. You’ll also find better value dash cams if you don’t need features such as smartphone notifications and weather updates. But if you want a dash cam with added smarts, this is a great choice.
Buy it if:
-
Your vehicle has no infotainment system, and you need features like mapping and forward collision warnings.
-
You want an all-in-one system, combining a dash cam and a sat nav system. Don’t buy it if:
-
You have a small windshield, because it’s larger than many dash cams.
-
You’re on a tight budget, because its multiple features result in a relatively high price.
- Specifications:
Specs Comparison
Also Consider
We’ve tested many dash cams. Here are some honorable mentions:
- Nexar Pro: A great dual-cam that’s ideal for drivers that travel long distances. It’s an older model that can only shoot 1080p video and not 4K. However, it has unlimited cloud storage.
- Vantrue E1: This well-rounded choice pairs a compact design with 2.5K video, and 1080p video at 60fps, plus built-in GPS.
- Thinkware X1000: Here’s an option that feels unique. It has a bigger touchscreen, and an easy-to-use interface, meaning you don’t really need to rely on an app like some other options.
- Miofive Dual Dash Cam: If you like the Miofive S1, you could use the Ultra version or the Miofive high-end model.
- Vantrue N2 Pro: Great for ride-share drivers.
- Viofo A229 Pro: An excellent all-rounder.
How to Choose the Best Dash Cam
When selecting a dash cam, begin by considering the number of cameras that fit your needs. Dash cams can have one, two, or three cameras. A single-camera dash cam records what’s happening outside via the windscreen; dual dash cams have an interior-facing camera that’s especially useful for ride-sharing drivers like taxis; and three-camera dash cams are generally for professional drivers who add a camera to the outside.
Video Resolution
Video resolution is a crucial factor when choosing the right dash cam. Most that are available today can record in Full HD. Sharper 4K dash cams generally cost more, but they capture video at a higher resolution. This can make specific details like number plates easier to identify and can provide a greater degree of reassurance from a safety perspective.
Video Frame Rates
Video frame rates are also important. While most dash cams can record at 30fps, the best models can capture action at 60fps, which is even smoother than 30fps. You have the option to slow down footage afterward, making it easier to pick up details. 4K 60fps recording is generally reserved for professional dash cams. Digital image stabilization is also a great feature for those driving on rough roads.
Features
There is a wealth of features, including touchscreen display, companion app, parking surveillance, GPS, voice control, sat nav, and what3words. If you drive an older car without an infotainment system, then it’s advantageous to get a dash cam with sat nav.
