Dashcams have been around for years, and don’t expect them to get phased out anytime soon. There are a lot of reasons why drivers have them in their vehicles, and this article will tell you why.
The Need for Dashcams
Dashcams are a lot like your regular video cameras except they’re intended for capturing or recording footage from inside the vehicle.
Typically mounted on the dashboard, windshield, or behind the rearview mirror, the primary job of a dashcam is to record its viewing area and serve as substantial evidence in the event of a crime or accident.
Dashcams are typically connected to the vehicle’s power supply. Like most cameras, a dashcam also needs an SD card or other type of removable storage to store footage.
Depending on the type, a dashcam can record footage that lasts for a few minutes to more than six hours.
Types of Dashcams
There are various kinds of dashcams you’ll find in the market. Here are some of the most common ones you might come across.
Single Channel
The single-channel dashcam is the most common and affordable type of dashboard camera there is. A single-channel dashcam can only record footage from in front of the vehicle.
Dual Channel
Unlike single-channel dashcams, dual-channel ones can record footage from the front and rear of the vehicle, offering drivers a comprehensive area of their surroundings.
Rearview Mirror Camera
A rearview dashcam is one that’s mounted to the vehicle’s rear view mirror. This type of dashcam blends well with most vehicle interiors, as it’s often in a discreet spot and unobtrusive.
Most rearview dashcams come with a larger screen that displays the recording.
4K
A 4K dashcam is one of the most expensive types of dashboard cameras out there一and for good reason.
4K dashcams provide ultra-high definition video recording features, so you can expect that the footage you’ll get is incredibly clear and detailed.
360-Degree Camera
A 360-degree dash camera can capture footage from various angles, providing drivers with maximum coverage of their surroundings.
Battery-Powered
Battery-powered dash cams usually have two types of batteries一lithium-ion and capacitor. Unlike most dashcams, battery-powered ones don’t have to rely on the vehicle’s power supply.
Reasons to Have Dashcams on Cars
Dashcams have become popular over the years for many reasons. Here are some of the benefits of having one in your vehicle.
Encourages Safe Driving Practices
People tend to be more careful with their actions when they’re being recorded. The same thing applies to drivers who have dashcams.
Driving with a dashcam recording your every move can help you practice your skills, too. Reviewing your driving adventures can help you determine which areas you need to work on.
Parents with kids who are learning to drive for the first time can also benefit from a dashcam. They can simply watch the footage and determine whether or not their child has been driving recklessly.
Provides First-Hand Evidence
Dashcams always come in handy when there are road accidents. Dashcam footage during an accident is damning evidence and helps in establishing who’s at fault to hold them accountable.
Aside from accidents, dashcam footage can also help you get out of a parking ticket or other traffic violations, especially when you know for yourself that you didn’t violate any rules.
Increases Vehicle Security
Dashcams also double as anti-theft devices by adding another layer of security to your vehicle against thieves.
Dashcams with a parking feature can record a vehicle’s surroundings for an extended period while the driver is away.
Disadvantages of Using a Dashcam
As convenient as it is to own a dashcam, there are also some disadvantages of using one.
Costly
Depending on the type, dashcams don’t come cheap, especially those that come with high resolutions. You can expect the price of dashcams to go up as more features are added.
Violates Privacy
Recording via a dashcam can violate privacy to some extent, given that it’s capturing footage outside of the vehicle.
Before installing a dashcam, be sure to check state regulations and protocols regarding the matter.
Provokes Theft
A vehicle that has a dashcam might increase security, but it can provoke theft, too. Vehicles with dashcams can be regarded as valued highly, so crooks might take an interest in them.
Limited Storage
Most dashcams have removable storage devices that can get full after recording hours of footage. You’ll have to delete some videos to keep recording, which can be quite a hassle.
State Regulations on Using Dashcams
Generally, dashcams are legal in every state. However, a fine line is drawn when audio recording is involved.
Most states will permit audio recording from a dashcam, provided that there’s consent from one person.
In other states, however, you’ll need to get the consent of everyone involved in the footage.
While dashcams are legal in all states, it’s still important to consider the slight modifications each state has regarding dashcam usage.
Shopping for Dashcams
Here are some factors to consider when shopping for a dashcam.
Mounting Options
When shopping for a dashcam, some of the popular mounting options you might come across include suction cup mounts, adhesive mounts, and rearview camera mounts.
Battery Type
Battery-powered dashcams can either have a lithium-ion or capacitor battery. A lithium-ion battery has a limited amount of charge cycles while a capacitor battery doesn’t degrade as fast and can withstand extreme temperatures.
Capacity
A lot of dashcams with a memory card slot have memory storage capacities that can range anywhere between 32 and 256 GB. You can also buy a dashcam that already has built-in memory.
Video Quality
Video resolution options can range from 720p to 8K. Of course, the higher the resolution, the higher the cost.
The Verdict: Are Dashcams Worth It?
Dashcams are worth having as they promote safe driving practices and serve as evidence when there are road accidents.
While owning one can come with a few disadvantages, it’s good to note that a dashcam is a great investment in the long run.
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