What is the price of a dash cam? Continue reading for a comprehensive overview of every issue to consider when purchasing a dash cam.
The main difference between car and truck dash cameras is that truck dash cams often feature a wide-angle fish-eye lens that covers 160 to 170 degrees, while automobile dash cams typically cover 120 degrees.
Truck dash cameras also come with a more comprehensive set of functions and capabilities.
Read on for a comprehensive discussion of every element to consider when purchasing a dash cam, as well as examples of the best pricing currently available and how a decent dash cam may save you money in the long run.
Alternatively, if you’re ready to begin comparing quotes to discover the best offer, just fill out Tech.co’s customizable quotes form to get started.
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Dash Cam
When assessing the prices of purchasing a dash cam, it’s important to consider each cost aspect separately.
You’ll have all the information you need to evaluate each dash cam’s specifications and pricing against your own demands and budget after you know where you stand on each of the subjects below.
Price of a Dash Cam for a Consumer vs. a Business
Consumer dash cameras are meant to work best in a vehicle, and they frequently have less functions than dash cams built for commercial usage, such as those put in whole fleets of delivery trucks or long-haul semi trucks.
Related: 7 Best RV Dash Cams of 2024
The Video’s Quality
High-definition video footage is available in four distinct formats: 720p, 1080p, 2K, and 4K, each with a greater resolution and pixel count than the last.
In reality, a resolution of 1080p be enough for any vehicle or automobile.
A standard 1080p HD dash cam will record enough information to identify a license plate or street sign and will not cost as much as a 2K or 4K dash cam.
When it comes to insurance claims, though, the greater resolution detail of a 2K or 4K camera may be the difference you need.
Commercial cameras are more likely to achieve that greater quality, but a consumer camera is unlikely to reach 2K or 4K unless it is a really high-end model.
Dual-Facing Vs. Front-Facing
The most popular dash cam is a front-facing dash cam.
It features a single lens and is intended to capture the road ahead of a vehicle.
However, the term “front-facing” might be deceptive since some front-facing cameras are intended to swivel so that they can record inside the car.
A dual-facing dash cam has two lenses and will simultaneously video the road ahead as well as the inside of the car.
Because film showing a driver with their eyes on the road may reduce liability to a minimal, this type can cost a bit more and is significantly more prevalent among fleets than consumer cars.
Finally, a dash cam that covers both the road in front of and behind a vehicle is known as a “front and rear” dash cam (though not the interior).
These cameras come in two parts, each with one lens, that sync up during shooting, allowing one to be positioned in front and the other in the back.
It’s also more typical in business fleets, but it may happen in personal automobiles as well.
The optimum potential coverage is, of course, 360 degrees.
While other devices on the market do provide a full 360-degree vision, this is an uncommon and unique feature.
Prices for 360-degree dash cameras are normally determined on a case-by-case basis, based on the size of the fleet and other requirements.
Installation
It’s possible that the expense of installing a dash cam is little.
Many dash cameras come with mounts that are either sticky pads or suction-cup type attachments that may be fitted by hand.
Others may be connected into an ODB-II port or a cigarette lighter in a car.
If you’re purchasing a camera for your own car, it should be simple to install.
The more elaborate fleet dash cameras need a somewhat more difficult installation, since they must be manually connected behind a car panel.
If the camera comes with a hardwire kit, connect one of the power lines to continuous 12V and the other to ignition 12V.
Because the labels and color-coding will differ depending on the camera type, you’ll have to rely on the instructions.
With the purchase of a business dash cam or fleet monitoring software, several providers will offer installation for free.
A commercial dash cam will be mounted in a hidden area on a vehicle, usually behind the rearview mirror on the windshield.
So that the driver’s vision isn’t hindered, the dash cam should never be more than five inches from the top of the windshield.
The glue used to mount the camera might be a concern, since certain adhesives are excessively permanent and can harm glass when removed.
Functionality
Video footage may be recorded by any dash cam.
Many include a software function called “Wide Dynamic Range,” which may reduce bright brightness and boost low lighting for a better video picture.
Some come with added benefits, such as the following:
- Night vision — This allows the cam to shoot clear video at night.
- Motion sensors —If something interferes with the cam’s microwave beam, it will be prompted to start recording, even if it is parked.
- Collision detection auto-recording (also called shock sensors) — When the camera’s sensors are rattled by a car accident, this immediately stores a video clip.
- Internal accelerometer — This detects the rate of acceleration of a vehicle.
- Time lapse auto-recording —When switched on, it captures periodic photos and combines them into a time-lapse movie.
- Artificial Intelligence — So you can monitor and promote safe driving, cameras with built-in AI can recognize and record a variety of activities, from unworn seatbelts to particular driving offences. This function is most suited for fleet-specific dash cameras, since it is most beneficial when a manager is in charge of a group of cars.
- In-cab coaching —Some dash cameras include built-in speakers to keep drivers engaged by alerting them to important information. This capability is also only available on fleet dash cams, not consumer cameras.
However, a dash cam with all of these characteristics is unlikely to be found, and definitely not at a low price.
Pick one or two of your favorite features from the list above and seek for a camera that has them.
Our list of the top ten best dash cams for truckers includes cameras with at least one of these characteristics.
Related: What is a Dash Cam?
Tracking using GPS
GPS data recording is available on certain dash cameras, which embeds GPS data into the video footage being captured.
This allows viewers to correlate timestamps to places, allowing them to verify a vehicle’s whereabouts during an incident.
This leads us to our last point…
Software for Fleet Management
A Fleet Management System is not required for personal usage, but it does provide a wide variety of capabilities to a commercial fleet of vehicles.
Fuel management, routing and dispatching, ELD compliance, and two-way messaging are all important features that may help you run your business more efficiently.
Many major fleet management software firms, such as Samsara, Verizon Connect, and GPS Insights, sell dash cams as part of their hardware offerings.
If a fleet already utilizes that FMS, they’ll probably want to purchase the dash cam that comes with it, or at the very least make sure their third-party dash cam is compatible.
Whether or not you currently have an FMS, gathering and comparing bids should be the first step in your hunt for the best affordable dash cam (with the functionality you need).
You may get competitive tailored quotes from the leading business dash cam providers by filling out Tech.co’s 1-minute form.
Price Breakdown for Dash Cams in Total
A fleet manager can anticipate the following features from this price range: a 1080p HD camera with a 170 degree wide-angle lens and a dual-facing device.
Dash Cams at the Lowest Prices
When looking for the best dash cam pricing, it’s a good idea to compare a variety of dash cam models and costs.
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| Byakov Dash Cam 1080 | AIPLUGER 4K Dual Dash Cam | TOGUARD Dual Dash Cam FHD | Rexing V1 – 4K Ultra HD Car Dash Cam | GILAYGROW 4K Dual Dash Cam | Nexar Beam GPS Full HD Dash Cam | KDLINKS R100 Dash Cam | |
| Top Features | Wide Angle Lens Loop recording G-Sensor (collisions) Parking Mode 2-year Warranty Motion Detection | Loop recording Wide angle lens Plug & Play installation 64GB SD Card G-sensor (collision sensor) 3-inch LCD screen | Full HD recordingFront & Rear cameras Night Vision with infrared Wide angle lens G-sensor (collision detection) Small 1.5-inch screen | 4K quality recording Small, discreet design Built for temperature extremes Wide angle lens G-sensor (collision sensor) 2.4-inch screen | 4K Ultra HD recording 2-inch screen Front & Rear cameras Night Vision Wide angle 170° lens G-sensor (collision detection) | Unlimited cloud storage Paired smartphone app One-tap insurance report generator Reasonably wide angle lens Collision sensor | Motion detection Superior Night Vision 1-Year Warranty G-sensor (collision sensor) 5-inch IPS screen |
Cheapest Dash Cam Offers
So you’re looking for a low-cost dash cam that’s nonetheless durable, simple to use, and records in 1080p HD? You’ve arrived to the correct location.
However, the selection is limited – like with any product line, you get what you pay for.
The cheapest solutions are more likely to be built with lower-quality materials, and you may end up spending more in the long term since you’ll have to replace them more often.
Having saying that, these are some of the finest dash cameras available.
The Best Dash Cam
They’re both simple to use, with broad perspectives and HD footage, and have important features like as an accident-detecting shock sensor that records and saves video when activated by a collision.
The TOGUARD cam is notable for its twin camera design, which captures both the road and the cab, making it an excellent value for fleets.
Related: How To Install Dash Cam? (Complete Guide)
Best Dash Cam
Although the screen is just an inch and a half wide, it provides a 1080p HD 170-degree perspective.
Wide Dynamic Range, collision detection, and a parking mode are among the features.
It employs continuous loop recording, which eliminates the need for the user to remove data manually.
Instead, the oldest files will be replaced by new ones in a seamless manner (unless the device has detected a collision, in which case it saves the incident automatically).
It also comes with a two-year guarantee, so if anything goes wrong, you can return it.
Given that you won’t be able to use your phone and will shortly run out of capacity, an app is unlikely to be a viable long-term solution.
Fleet managers are unlikely to settle for an off-the-shelf option.
Cost Savings using a Dash Cam
It’s easy to overlook the long-term advantages of investing in a high-quality dash cam when planning a company dash cam budget.
Although it’s difficult to quantify soft savings, they’re nevertheless worth mentioning.
Here are a few unspoken advantages of a competent dash cam that a fleet will reap for years (or even decades).
- Insurance —If a vehicle is involved in an accident but is not at fault, it will be simple to demonstrate using camera evidence, saving your firm money on insurance.
- Theft recovery — When disturbed throughout the night, a motion-detecting dash cam might start recording and instantly transmit the film to the internet. What’s the end result? Vehicles and equipment that have been stolen may be recovered quickly and securely.
- Theft deterrence — When theft recovery is simple, it has the unintended consequence of making thefts less prevalent. The mere presence of a camera may serve as a deterrent.
- Driver safety — Drivers might acquire a fresh perspective on their driving behaviors by reviewing dash cam footage. A management of a trucking fleet may look at film to see how well their drivers are doing, or look at prior incidents to see what information can be gathered to avoid future mishaps. Higher-end devices may potentially be able to provide real-time sound driving warnings.
- Fleet efficiency —When a fleet manager gets access to dash cam video throughout the day, he or she can know where their cars are without having to depend on their drivers. This improves decision-making speed and accuracy, resulting in a more efficient fleet. Combining a dash cam with fleet management software, on the other hand, takes this value to a whole new level.
While these long-term advantages are easy to overlook and difficult to completely account for in a budget, they can easily save car owners hundreds – and fleet managers thousands – every year.
These hidden savings may give you peace of mind when purchasing a dash cam, knowing that the camera’s cost will help you avoid even more unexpected expenditures in the future.
Related: Where To Mount Dash Cam: The Ultimate Guide
What’s Next for Dash Cams?
Which dash cam are you looking for? It all relies on a few factors, like your budget, the features you want, and whether you want a camera for personal or business usage.
The Byakov Dash Cam is a good choice for those who require a personal camera since it has a lot of functions and a high-quality resolution at a reasonable price.
However, comparing the different rates given by the top dash cam providers accessible is the greatest way to guarantee you save money on your dash cam.
Once you’ve determined your budget and requirements, take a minute to fill out our free form, which will match you with unique bids from the finest dash cam suppliers.
FAQs
Is the expense of a dash cam warranty justified?
If a dash cam comes with a warranty, it’s normally a 12-month or 18-month guarantee that comes with the dash cam’s purchase.
It’s up to you if you want to acquire another (or buy one outright if one isn’t included), but any good pro-grade dash cam should survive at least 3-5 years, depending on use and harsh temps.
What does it cost to install a dash cam?
Many types, on the other hand, are “plug-and-play,” meaning they can be connected into a vehicle connection – such as a cigarette lighter or a truck’s OBD-II port – and installed for free.
Is a dash cam going to lower my insurance?
Dash cam video may be used in an insurance or legal appeal, possibly saving you thousands of dollars if it demonstrates that you were not at fault.
You can avoid an expensive insurance hike if you use it to win a case.
But, if you show your insurance provider that you’ve installed a dash cam, would they cut your premium? This is dependent on the policies of the insurance company.
Unfortunately, it’s rare for an insurance company to grant a discount to drivers who use dash cameras, and many don’t even have protocols in place for utilizing dash cam evidence in an insurance claim.
These requirements may alter as dash cameras become more common.
Is it okay if I leave my dash cam in the car?
When leaving their car for the day, some drivers choose to take their dash cam with them.
This, however, necessitates re-installing it every time you get back into your car to drive – and the one day you don’t, may be the day you want that film.
It’s doubtful that a dash cam would promote theft if it’s placed in a hidden area.
It may actively deter theft for truckers, since gadgets with auto-recording capabilities will capture anybody trying to steal what is rightfully theirs.
You may even use it to keep an eye on your car when it’s parked.
It’s ultimately up to you whether or not you want to have a dash cam in your own car, but for truckers’ dash cameras, we encourage doing so.
Will a dash cam deplete my vehicle’s battery?
Dash cameras may, but do not always, deplete a battery.
When hooked in, certain dash cameras will take power from the car’s battery, even if the vehicle is turned off.
This is how some unique features, such as time-lapse recordings or motion-sensing, may function even when the vehicle is turned off.
As a general rule, if the camera is connected to a vehicle’s OBD-II port, it can run continuously with little battery depletion owing to the connection’s low voltage protection.
The dash cam will not draw any power if it is connected to the vehicle’s ignition circuit.
Furthermore, most dash cameras may be programmed to turn off when the car is turned off and switch back on when the vehicle is turned on.
Check the manual for your dash cam to see how it gets its power.
What factors influence the price of a dash cam?
A dash cam’s price is roughly proportional to the quality of video it captures and the number of extra capabilities it delivers.
Is it true that dual dash cameras are more expensive?
Yes, twin dash cameras are more costly than single lens dash cams since they have two camera lenses.
Are dash cams capable of recording audio?
Some dash cameras, although not all, capture audio from inside the car.
If you don’t hear anything, check your recorded film to see if there is an audio component, and if there isn’t, check your options to switch on an audio option.
Are dash cameras equipped with night vision?
Night vision is available on some dash cams, but not all.
“Wide Dynamic Range” is another function that helps improve the clarity of poorly lit film, albeit it does need some light to operate.
Night vision and Wide Dynamic Range are two capabilities that you’ll almost certainly discover on a mid-priced dash cam.
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