Really there’s only one essential function for the best dash cams: capturing clear footage of events on the road and around your vehicle. We understand this well, having conducted thorough real-world reviews of over 30 different dash cams from leading brands such as Garmin, Nextbase, 70mai, and Viofo.
Every dash cam featured in this guide excels at that crucial task, and many also provide extra features like GPS tracking, parking monitoring, and smartphone app integration. The necessity of these additional features often depends on individual needs and, importantly, budget. That’s why we’ve organized this guide to help you find a great dash cam without breaking the bank – focusing on the best inexpensive options available.
If we were to recommend a single dash cam that balances performance and affordability, it would be the Miofive S1 Ultra. It delivers impressive 4K video quality without the premium price tag typically associated with such resolution. For those seeking smart features on a budget, the Nextbase Piqo offers a taste of advanced functionality at a more accessible price point, while the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 remains a fantastic compact and budget-friendly option for users who prioritize simplicity and value.
Our team of experts has dedicated numerous hours to real-world testing of a wide array of dash cams. We assess each model across various driving scenarios, from initial setup to nighttime performance. Our rankings are based on the results of these comprehensive reviews. Furthermore, we include an “Also Consider” section to present even more choices that might suit your specific needs and budget, ensuring you discover the Best Inexpensive Dash Cam for you, along with links to find the best deals.
Written by
Written byTimothy Coleman
Tim is TechRadar’s Camera’s Editor. With over 15 years of experience in the photo and video industry, both as a freelance photographer and a tech journalist, Tim has extensively tested various photography equipment, including numerous dash cams. From driving in the UK to Nairobi, Tim has accumulated significant road experience, giving him a deep understanding of what constitutes a reliable dash cam. Tim points out, “Many dash cams on the market come with advanced features like GPS, surveillance, and driver assistance modes. If these tools aren’t essential for you, opting for a simpler model can lead to considerable savings.”
Top 3 Inexpensive Picks
If you’re looking for a quick guide to some of the best value dash cams for every driver, our brief summary below highlights top choices that are friendly on your wallet. If one catches your eye, use the links provided to jump directly to the detailed review.
Miofive S1 Ulta dashcam on white backgroundBest Cheap 4K Dash Cam4. Miofive S1
Best Cheap 4K
Priced comfortably under $100 / £100, the Miofive S1 is arguably the best inexpensive dash cam available now, offering 4K video and integrated GPS.
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 on a white backgroundBest Budget Dash Cam2. Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3
Best Budget
Garmin’s miniature dash cam receives a subtle upgrade, featuring a landscape orientation and polarizing filter, complementing its Full HD HDR footage.
Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam on a white backgroundBest Value Smart Features (Also Consider)Honorable Mention: Nextbase Piqo
Best Value Smart Features
For a taste of smart dash cam features without the premium price, the Nextbase Piqo offers ‘Lite’ versions of advanced functionalities in a compact design.
Best Inexpensive Dash Cams by Feature
Miofive S1 Ulta dashcam on white backgroundBest Cheap 4K4. Miofive S1
Best Cheap 4K
For high-resolution recording on a budget, the Miofive S1 delivers 4K video and GPS at a price point under $100 / £100.
70mai Omni Dash Cam on a white backgroundBest Inexpensive 360 Degree5. 70mai Dash Cam Omni
Best Inexpensive 360-degree
Offering unique 360-degree coverage, this dash cam is ideal for comprehensive recording at a reasonable price.
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 on a white backgroundBest Inexpensive Compact2. Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3
Best Inexpensive Compact
If you need a discreet and budget-friendly option, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is incredibly small yet effective.
Finding an Inexpensive Yet Reliable Dash Cam in 2025
Why you can trust TechRadar We dedicate hours to testing every product and service we review, ensuring you receive trustworthy buying advice. Learn more about our testing process.
Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each of the best inexpensive dash cams from our list. We have thoroughly tested each model to ensure our recommendations are dependable and help you find a dash cam that offers great value without compromising on essential features.
The Best Inexpensive 4K Dash Cam
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4. Miofive S1 Ultra
The best inexpensive 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
+Excellent 4K footage quality for the price
+Fast video transfer with 5GHz Wi-Fi
+Built-in GPS included
Reasons to avoid
-Frame rate limited to 30 fps at all resolutions
-Windscreen mount could be improved
-AI features feel somewhat unnecessary
Miofive S1 Ultra sample footage
Buy it if:
✅ You want 4K video on a budget: The Miofive S1 Ultra offers sharp 4K video recording with minimal noise, making it an outstanding option for its price point.
✅ GPS is a must-have feature: At this affordable price, integrated GPS is a significant advantage, adding crucial location data to your recordings for incident verification.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You need higher frame rates: The S1 Ultra caps video frame rates at 30fps, regardless of resolution. If smoother 60fps footage is important to you, consider other options.
❌ You prefer to avoid AI alerts: Some may find the AI-driven driver alerts and harsh driving warnings to be superfluous or distracting.
The Miofive S1 Ultra stands out as an exceptional value, often found for well under $100 / £100. This is remarkable for a 4K dash cam that also incorporates GPS and fast 5GHz Wi-Fi for quick file transfers. In our tests, the video quality was notably impressive, delivering sharp details and effective noise reduction in low light conditions. It truly punches above its weight in terms of video performance for an inexpensive dash cam.
While a 60fps recording option, even at 1080p Full HD, would be a welcome enhancement, the S1 Ultra is otherwise difficult to fault. Setup is straightforward, and despite not being the smallest dash cam, it’s easy to position and operate. The option to pair it with Miofive’s rear dash cam further expands its coverage capabilities. Considering its comprehensive feature set and impressive 4K video quality at such a competitive price, the Miofive S1 Ultra is undoubtedly the best inexpensive 4K dash cam you can currently find.
The Best Inexpensive Budget Dash Cam
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2. Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3
The best inexpensive 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
+Discreet, compact design for unobtrusive placement
+High-quality Full HD footage capture
+Polarizing lens to reduce windshield glare
+Simple and user-friendly interface
Reasons to avoid
-Only a minor upgrade from the Mini 2
-No GPS functionality included
-Lacks an integrated screen
-MicroSD card not included in the box
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 sample footage
Buy it if:
✅ You need a truly hidden dash cam: Its incredibly small size allows the Mini 3 to be almost completely hidden behind your rearview mirror, maintaining clear forward visibility.
✅ Simplicity is key for you: Garmin has designed the Mini 3 for straightforward setup and operation, making it a reliable, easy-to-install tool that operates quietly in the background.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You are already a Dash Cam Mini 2 owner: The upgrades are minimal – mainly a polarizing filter and landscape redesign – offering little incentive to upgrade.
❌ 4K video resolution is essential: The Mini 3 is limited to 1080p Full HD. For higher resolution video, you’ll need to invest in a more premium, and typically more expensive, model.
If you’re in the market for a small, uncomplicated dash cam that you can simply set up and forget, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 is our top recommendation for budget-conscious buyers. In our testing, its compact form factor allowed it to be easily concealed behind the rearview mirror, while its intuitive interface made setup and daily use a breeze. It also reliably captures high-quality Full HD video with HDR. While these attributes are also true of its predecessor, the Dash Cam Mini 2, owners of the older model might not find enough new features to justify an upgrade.
Like the Mini 2, GPS and a built-in display are absent in this version. Control and settings adjustments are managed through the Garmin Drive app, which functions effectively for reviewing footage and changing settings. New features include a landscape design and an integrated polarizing filter, intended to minimize windshield reflections. However, in our review, the footage appeared visually similar to that from the Mini 2. Nevertheless, for those purchasing their first dash cam or seeking a smaller, inexpensive option, the Dash Cam Mini 3 excels in all the essential areas, delivering reliable performance at a budget-friendly price.
The Best Inexpensive 360-Degree Dash Cam
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5. 70mai Dash Cam Omni
Best inexpensive omni-directional front dash cam
Our expert review:
Specifications
Video quality: 1080p up to 60fps
Viewing angle: 140 degrees, omnidirectional
GPS tracker: Yes
Memory: eMMC built-in 32GB / 64GB or 128GB
Reasons to buy
+Unique 360-degree panoramic viewing capability
+High-resolution video capture
+Records both video and audio effectively
+Convenient user-friendly voice controls
+Affordable price point
Reasons to avoid
-No cloud backup by default
-Parking surveillance requires hardwiring installation
-Can be challenging to remove from the windscreen
70mai Omni sample footage
Buy it if:
✅ You desire 360-degree coverage: The Omni’s standout feature is its ability to rotate 360 degrees, providing comprehensive coverage from any angle around your vehicle.
✅ You appreciate a user-friendly experience: The Omni includes charming, interactive display graphics for an enhanced user interface.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You need 4K video quality: The Omni’s video resolution peaks at 1920×1080 Full HD up to 60fps, which is lower than some other dash cams on the market, especially if you require ultra-detailed footage.
❌ Automatic cloud syncing of footage is important: Cloud syncing is available, but it requires an optional 4G hardware kit, adding to the overall cost.
The 70mai Omni is truly unique in the dash cam market. It’s a single-camera system with a 140-degree field of view, but its special ability to rotate provides complete 360-degree coverage from its windshield mount. This allows it to record the road ahead like a conventional dash cam or turn inwards to film the vehicle’s interior. While its video resolution tops out at 1080p at 60fps – not the highest detail available – we were particularly impressed with the low-light performance of its f/1.8 lens during our testing. For an inexpensive dash cam, it offers surprisingly versatile coverage.
In our review, the Omni impressed us with its design and user experience, featuring enjoyable graphics and animations on the display. It also incorporates AI-powered surveillance features, including motion detection and threat-level assessment, to enhance vehicle security. As a single-unit dash cam, it is exceptionally fun to operate, and its retail price is quite reasonable. However, automatic cloud backup requires purchasing the additional 4G hardware kit. For those seeking broad coverage without a high price, the 70mai Omni is a compelling inexpensive option.
Specs Comparison of Inexpensive Dash Cams
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Model | Video resolution | Viewing angle | GPS | Memory | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miofive S1 | 4K 30p | 140 degrees | Yes | microSD | Under $100 |
| Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 | 1080p | 140 degrees | No | microSD | Under $150 |
| 70mai Dash Cam Omni | 1080p | 140 degrees (360°) | Yes | eMMC built-in | Under $200 |
Also Consider for Inexpensive Dash Cams
While the models above represent our top picks for inexpensive dash cams, there are a few honorable mentions worth considering if they better meet your specific needs or if you find them on sale.
Nextbase Piqo: If the smart features of the Nextbase iQ are appealing but the price and subscription fees are not, the Piqo is an excellent budget-friendly alternative from the same brand. It offers ‘Lite’ versions of the iQ’s smart features in a compact and attractive design, making it a great value option for those wanting some connected features without a high cost.
Vantrue E1: The Vantrue E1 is a solid all-around choice that balances compact design with good performance. It records crisp 2.5K video and 1080p video at up to 60fps, and includes built-in GPS. Its discreet size allows it to fit neatly behind your rearview mirror, making it a less obtrusive option for drivers looking for an inexpensive but capable dash cam.
Garmin Dash Cam X310: While not strictly in the “inexpensive” category, the Garmin Dash Cam X310 sometimes sees price drops that make it surprisingly affordable. It records sharp 4K video with HDR and is packed with features like GPS and a touchscreen. If you can find it on sale, it offers premium features at a mid-range price.
Nextbase 622GW: Similar to the Garmin X310, the Nextbase 622GW is a higher-end model that can become an “inexpensive” option when discounted. It boasts 4K video, excellent night vision, and image stabilization. Keep an eye out for deals on this model if you prioritize top-tier video quality and advanced features but want to snag a bargain.
The Thinkware X1000 dash cam mounted inside a car windshield
The Thinkware X1000 dash cam and it’s large screen (Image credit: Future)
Choosing the Best Inexpensive Dash Cam for Your Needs
Selecting the right dash cam involves considering several factors, especially when budget is a primary concern. Here’s what to keep in mind when looking for an inexpensive dash cam that meets your needs:
Video Resolution and Quality: While 4K is ideal for capturing fine details, it often comes at a higher price. For inexpensive dash cams, 1080p Full HD is generally sufficient and offers a good balance of clarity and affordability. Look for models that perform well in various lighting conditions, particularly at night.
Essential Features vs. Budget: Decide which features are must-haves for you. GPS, parking mode, and Wi-Fi connectivity are useful but can increase the price. If you’re aiming for “inexpensive,” prioritize core recording quality and reliability over advanced features. The models highlighted here prove that you can get essential features without overspending.
Form Factor and Size: Compact dash cams like the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 3 are less obtrusive and easier to mount discreetly. If you prefer a dash cam that doesn’t draw attention, consider smaller models.
Ease of Use and Setup: Inexpensive doesn’t have to mean complicated. Look for dash cams that are easy to set up and use daily. User-friendly apps and straightforward interfaces are a big plus, especially for budget models.
Reliability and Durability: Check user reviews for insights into the long-term reliability of inexpensive dash cams. While you might be saving money upfront, you want a dash cam that will last and consistently record when you need it.
Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands known for producing quality dash cams, even when shopping in the inexpensive category. Brands like Garmin, 70mai, Miofive, and Nextbase offer budget-friendly options that still maintain a degree of quality and support.
By carefully considering these points, you can find an inexpensive dash cam that provides the essential protection and features you need without exceeding your budget.
Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam on a white background
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Getting Started with Your Inexpensive Dash Cam
Setting up an inexpensive dash cam is generally straightforward. Most models are designed for easy installation, allowing you to get up and running quickly. Here are the basic steps:
Mounting: Most inexpensive dash cams use a suction cup or adhesive mount to attach to your windshield. Choose a location that provides a clear view of the road without obstructing your vision.
Power Connection: Typically, inexpensive dash cams are powered via a 12V car socket (cigarette lighter) or a USB port. Plug in the provided power cable to power the dash cam. Some may offer hardwiring options for parking mode, but this is less common in budget models and usually requires professional installation.
Memory Card Installation: Ensure you insert a compatible microSD card. Many inexpensive dash cams do not include a memory card, so you may need to purchase one separately. Check the dash cam’s specifications for the maximum supported card size.
Initial Setup: Turn on your vehicle’s ignition. The dash cam should power on automatically. Follow the on-screen prompts (if there is a screen) or use the companion app to complete the initial setup, which may include setting the date, time, and video resolution.
Testing: Take a short drive to ensure the dash cam is recording correctly. Review the footage on your smartphone or computer to check video quality and viewing angle.
Position Adjustment: If necessary, adjust the dash cam’s position to optimize the view and ensure it captures the road ahead effectively.
By following these simple steps, you can quickly install and begin using your inexpensive dash cam, gaining peace of mind knowing you have a reliable witness on the road.
Miofive Dual Dash Cam front camera in hand
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Is an Inexpensive Dash Cam Worth It?
Absolutely! Even an inexpensive dash cam can be a worthwhile investment for any driver. While they may lack some of the advanced features of premium models, inexpensive dash cams provide the core functionality you need: reliable video recording in case of an accident.
Key Benefits of Inexpensive Dash Cams:
Accident Evidence: The primary benefit is having video evidence in the event of a collision. This footage can be crucial for insurance claims and determining fault, protecting you from liability and potentially lowering your insurance costs.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a dash cam recording can provide significant peace of mind while driving. It’s a safety net that can protect you from fraudulent claims and provide an objective record of events.
Monitoring Teen Drivers: For parents of new drivers, an inexpensive dash cam can be a valuable tool for monitoring driving habits and ensuring safety.
Protection Against Road Rage and Uninsured Drivers: Dash cam footage can be invaluable in cases of road rage incidents or accidents involving uninsured drivers, providing evidence to authorities and insurance companies.
Affordable Security: Even budget models often include parking mode features, offering basic surveillance for your vehicle when parked, protecting against hit-and-run incidents and vandalism.
While premium dash cams with advanced features are appealing, an inexpensive dash cam is a smart and practical choice for most drivers. It provides essential protection and peace of mind without straining your budget, making it a highly worthwhile addition to your vehicle.
A dash camera inside a car windscreen recording road
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Battery Drain Considerations for Inexpensive Dash Cams
Power consumption is an important consideration, even with inexpensive dash cams. Here’s what you need to know to avoid draining your car battery:
Power Source: Most inexpensive dash cams are designed to be powered via your car’s 12V socket or USB port. They draw power only when the vehicle is running, minimizing battery drain.
Parking Mode: Some inexpensive dash cams offer parking mode, which allows them to record when your car is parked if they detect motion or impact. However, continuous parking mode can draw power even when the engine is off.
Hardwiring vs. Plug-in: For parking mode to function effectively without draining your battery, some dash cams can be hardwired into your car’s electrical system. However, this is less common and often not necessary for basic, inexpensive models. Plug-in models generally only operate when the ignition is on, which reduces battery drain risk.
Motion Detection: If your inexpensive dash cam has parking mode, ensure it uses motion detection or impact sensors to trigger recording rather than continuous recording. This significantly reduces power consumption while parked.
Battery Drain Risk: For most users of inexpensive dash cams that are plugged into the 12V socket and do not have continuous parking mode, battery drain is generally not a significant concern. However, if you use parking mode frequently, especially in cold weather or with an older car battery, be mindful of potential drain.
External Power Banks: For extended parking surveillance without battery drain, consider using an external dash cam battery pack. These portable power sources can power your dash cam for hours without tapping into your car’s battery.
By understanding the power consumption characteristics of your inexpensive dash cam and using it appropriately, you can enjoy its benefits without worrying about draining your car battery.
A man adjusting a Nextbase dash cam in a car interior
(Image credit: Nextbase)
GoPro vs. Inexpensive Dedicated Dash Cam
While GoPro cameras are excellent action cameras and can be used as dash cams, dedicated inexpensive dash cams often offer a more practical and cost-effective solution for everyday driving recording.
Cost: GoPros, even older models, are generally more expensive than many dedicated inexpensive dash cams. If budget is a primary concern, a dedicated dash cam is usually more economical.
Features: Dedicated dash cams are designed specifically for in-car recording and come pre-equipped with features like loop recording, automatic incident detection, and parking mode. GoPros lack these features out-of-the-box and require manual setup and operation for dash cam use.
Ease of Use: Inexpensive dash cams are designed for set-and-forget operation. They automatically start recording when you start your car and stop when you turn it off. GoPros require manual starting and stopping of recording each time you drive, which can be inconvenient.
Form Factor: Dedicated dash cams are typically smaller and more discreet than GoPros, making them less obtrusive on your windshield.
Durability and Heat Resistance: Dash cams are built to withstand the extreme temperatures inside a car, while GoPros, although rugged, are not specifically designed for prolonged exposure to heat.
Parking Mode: Many inexpensive dash cams offer parking mode, a crucial feature for security, which is not available on GoPros without significant DIY setup and external power.
Loop Recording: Loop recording is standard on dash cams, ensuring continuous recording by overwriting old footage. While GoPros can loop record, it needs to be manually configured.
While a GoPro can function as a dash cam, inexpensive dedicated dash cams offer a more user-friendly, feature-rich, and cost-effective solution specifically tailored for vehicle recording. For most drivers looking for reliable and affordable protection, a dedicated dash cam is the better choice.
70mai 4K A810 Dash Cam on dashboard
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Legality of Using Inexpensive Dash Cams
Using a dash cam is generally legal in most jurisdictions, including the UK and the US. However, it’s important to be aware of and adhere to local regulations to ensure your dash cam use is lawful.
General Legality: In most places, recording video in public spaces like roads is legal. Dash cams primarily record in such public environments, making their use generally permissible.
Windshield Mounting Laws: Some regions have specific laws about mounting devices on windshields. Ensure your dash cam placement does not obstruct your view of the road and complies with local regulations. In the US, some states have restrictions on where you can mount items on your windshield.
Privacy Considerations: While recording video on public roads is generally accepted, audio recording may have stricter rules, especially regarding passenger consent. If your inexpensive dash cam records audio, be aware of local privacy laws, particularly if you drive for ride-sharing or taxi services. In some US states, audio recording requires consent from all occupants.
Data Protection and Sharing Footage: Be cautious when sharing dash cam footage online, especially if it includes identifiable individuals or license plates. Blurring faces and license plates is advisable to protect privacy and comply with data protection laws.
European Regulations: Be aware that some European countries have stricter rules or even prohibit dash cam use. If you plan to drive in Europe, research the specific regulations of each country you’ll be visiting.
Insurance and Legal Use: Dash cam footage is widely accepted by insurance companies and in legal proceedings as evidence. Using an inexpensive dash cam can be beneficial in accident claims and disputes.
By being informed about and respecting local laws and privacy considerations, you can legally and responsibly use your inexpensive dash cam to enhance your safety and protection on the road.
The Nextbase 522GW dash cam in a car interior
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Understanding Loop Recording in Inexpensive Dash Cams
Loop recording is a standard and essential feature in virtually all dash cams, including inexpensive models. It ensures continuous recording without the need to manually manage storage space.
How Loop Recording Works: Dash cams record video in segments, typically of 1, 2, or 3-minute durations. When the memory card is full, the dash cam automatically overwrites the oldest, non-protected video segments with new recordings. This continuous cycle ensures that your dash cam is always recording the latest driving events.
Seamless Recording: Loop recording provides seamless video capture, ensuring no gaps in your driving record. You don’t need to worry about stopping to delete files or format the memory card; the dash cam handles storage management automatically.
Incident Protection: Most dash cams, even inexpensive ones, have a G-sensor that detects sudden impacts, like collisions or hard braking. When an incident is detected, the dash cam automatically locks the current and preceding video segments, preventing them from being overwritten by loop recording. This ensures that crucial accident footage is preserved.
Manual Protection: In addition to automatic incident detection, most dash cams allow you to manually protect video clips. Usually, a button on the dash cam can be pressed to lock the current recording, saving footage of events you deem important, such as witnessing an accident or a road rage incident.
Memory Card Management: Loop recording efficiently manages memory card space, allowing you to maximize the use of your storage and maintain continuous recording capability.
Benefits for Inexpensive Dash Cams: For inexpensive dash cams, loop recording is particularly valuable as it simplifies operation and ensures that even budget-friendly models provide reliable, continuous recording without requiring user intervention for storage management.
Loop recording is a fundamental feature that makes dash cams, including inexpensive ones, practical and user-friendly for everyday use, providing continuous protection and peace of mind.
Meet the Team Behind the Reviews
Our team of reviewers brings together over a century of combined experience in camera technology and testing. We are dedicated to providing you with expert, reliable reviews to help you make informed decisions.
Alistair Charlton
Alistair Charlton is a freelance technology and automotive journalist based in London. With a lifelong passion for cars and technology, Alistair contributes to numerous publications in the consumer tech and automotive sectors. In addition to reviewing dash cams for TechRadar, his work appears in Wired, T3, Forbes, Stuff, The Independent, SlashGear, and Grand Designs Magazine, among others.
Rob Clymo
Rob Clymo has been a tech journalist for an extensive period, starting in print media before embracing the digital world. His career includes running the Innovation channel at Microsoft and contributing news, reviews, and features to TechRadar, Tom’s Guide, and various automotive industry publications. Outside of work, he is an avid e-bike enthusiast.
Tim Coleman
Tim Coleman is TechRadar’s Cameras Editor, overseeing all camera-related content, including buying guides, reviews, and news. His expertise spans from mirrorless cameras to smartphones and dash cams. With nearly 20 years in the photo and video industry, Tim brings deep knowledge and practical experience to his reviews.
Leon Poultney
Leon has spent nearly two decades navigating the intersection of automotive and technology, covering in-car entertainment, manufacturing, and the evolution of electric vehicles. His current focus is on EVs and future transportation technologies. In his free time, Leon enjoys working on classic motorcycles.
Paul Hatton
Paul Hatton is a digital expert with over 20 years of experience in technology and creative industries. Holding a first-class honors degree in Computer Science, Paul is a go-to source for reviews and tech analysis, with his writing also featured in Creative Bloq, Digital Camera World, and 3D World Magazine.
Our Testing Methodology for Inexpensive Dash Cams
The Garmin Dash Cam Tandem mounted in a windshield for testing
(Image credit: Future)
Our dash cam testing process is rigorous and designed to simulate real-world usage. Here’s how we evaluate inexpensive dash cams:
Installation and Setup: We begin by installing each dash cam in a vehicle, following the manufacturer’s instructions, just as a typical user would. We assess the ease of mounting, wiring, and initial setup.
Real-World Driving Tests: We conduct extensive driving tests both during the day and at night, and in various weather conditions. This allows us to evaluate video quality under different lighting and environmental scenarios.
Video Quality Assessment: We transfer recorded footage to a computer and smartphone to review video quality. We check for clarity, detail, color accuracy, and performance in low light. We also assess the legibility of license plates and road signs.
Feature Testing: We thoroughly test all advertised features, including GPS tracking, parking mode, Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control, and driver assistance systems. We evaluate their effectiveness and user-friendliness.
Ease of Use: We assess the overall user experience, including menu navigation, app functionality, and daily operation. We look for intuitive interfaces and straightforward controls, critical for inexpensive models where simplicity is often key.
Durability and Reliability: While we don’t conduct destructive testing, we monitor dash cams for any reliability issues during the testing period. We also consider build quality and materials to assess long-term durability.
Simulated Incident Detection: To test incident detection, we simulate collisions by firmly tapping the dash cam. This allows us to verify that the G-sensor correctly identifies incidents and protects footage from being overwritten.
Value for Money: Finally, we consider the price of each dash cam in relation to its performance and features. We assess whether it offers good value for money, especially within the “inexpensive” category, and whether it meets the needs of budget-conscious consumers.
Hands installing a dash cam into a car windshield
(Image credit: Let Geo Create / Shutterstock)
Why Trust TechRadar for Inexpensive Dash Cam Reviews?
TechRadar has been committed to providing honest, unbiased, and reliable reviews of technology products since 2008. When it comes to inexpensive dash cams, you can trust our expert team because:
Decades of Experience: Our reviewers have decades of experience testing cameras and automotive technology. We have a deep understanding of dash cam technology and the features that matter most.
Rigorous Testing: We put each dash cam through a comprehensive series of real-world tests. Our testing methodology is designed to replicate how you would use the dash cam in your daily life, ensuring our reviews are practical and relevant.
Impartial Reviews: Our reviews are editorially independent. We are not influenced by manufacturers, and our primary goal is to provide you with unbiased and trustworthy buying advice.
Focus on Real User Needs: We understand that different users have different needs and budgets. Our reviews of inexpensive dash cams specifically focus on helping budget-conscious buyers find the best options that balance affordability and essential features.
Commitment to Accuracy: We are committed to accuracy and reliability in our reviews. We thoroughly verify all information and claims to ensure our recommendations are dependable.
Helpful and Practical Advice: Our goal is not just to list specifications but to provide helpful, practical advice that empowers you to make informed purchasing decisions. We explain complex features in easy-to-understand terms and offer clear recommendations based on real-world performance.
For reliable and trustworthy reviews of inexpensive dash cams, TechRadar is your go-to source. We are dedicated to helping you find the best technology to meet your needs and budget. For more information about our commitment to editorial independence and the standards we uphold, please visit our About Us page.
