Buying Guide for the Best Mirror Dash Cams
Choosing the right mirror dash cam can significantly enhance your driving experience and provide valuable evidence in case of accidents or disputes. A mirror dash cam is a device that combines a rearview mirror with a built-in camera to record the road ahead and sometimes the rear as well. When selecting a mirror dash cam, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.Video ResolutionVideo resolution refers to the clarity and detail of the recorded footage. Higher resolution means clearer and more detailed videos. Common resolutions include 720p (HD), 1080p (Full HD), and 4K (Ultra HD). If you want to capture fine details like license plates, a higher resolution like 1080p or 4K is recommended. For general use, 720p might suffice, but it may not provide as much detail in critical situations.
Field of View (FOV)The field of view is the extent of the observable area captured by the camera. A wider FOV means the camera can capture more of the surroundings. Typical FOV ranges from 120 degrees to 170 degrees. A wider FOV (e.g., 150-170 degrees) is beneficial for capturing more of the road and surroundings, which can be crucial in case of an accident. However, too wide a FOV might cause some distortion at the edges. Choose a FOV that balances coverage and image quality based on your driving environment.
Night VisionNight vision capability allows the dash cam to record clear footage in low-light conditions. This is important for driving at night or in poorly lit areas. Look for dash cams with features like infrared LEDs or advanced low-light sensors. If you frequently drive at night, prioritize a dash cam with strong night vision performance to ensure you capture clear footage regardless of lighting conditions.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity determines how much footage the dash cam can store before it starts overwriting old recordings. Dash cams typically use microSD cards, with capacities ranging from 16GB to 128GB or more. Higher capacity cards allow for longer recording times. If you drive long distances or want to keep recordings for extended periods, opt for a larger storage capacity. Ensure the dash cam supports the microSD card size you plan to use.
Loop RecordingLoop recording is a feature that allows the dash cam to continuously record by overwriting the oldest footage when the storage is full. This ensures that the camera is always recording and you don't run out of space. Most dash cams have this feature, but it's important to check. If you want to ensure continuous recording without manual intervention, make sure your dash cam supports loop recording.
G-SensorA G-sensor detects sudden movements or impacts and automatically saves the current footage to prevent it from being overwritten. This is crucial for preserving evidence in case of an accident. The sensitivity of the G-sensor can often be adjusted. If you want to ensure that important events are always saved, choose a dash cam with a reliable G-sensor.
Rear CameraSome mirror dash cams come with an additional rear camera to record the view behind your vehicle. This can be useful for capturing rear-end collisions or for parking assistance. If you want comprehensive coverage of both the front and rear of your vehicle, consider a dash cam with a rear camera. Ensure the rear camera has good resolution and night vision capabilities if you drive in low-light conditions.
Display SizeThe display size of the mirror dash cam affects how easily you can view the footage and navigate the menu. Larger displays provide a better viewing experience but may be bulkier. Common sizes range from 4.3 inches to 10 inches. If you prefer a larger screen for easier viewing and navigation, opt for a bigger display. However, ensure it doesn't obstruct your view while driving.
Parking ModeParking mode allows the dash cam to continue recording even when the vehicle is parked. This can be useful for monitoring your car for theft or vandalism. Some dash cams require hardwiring to the car's battery for this feature. If you want to keep an eye on your vehicle while it's parked, look for a dash cam with parking mode and consider the installation requirements.