The best dash cam in 2024: security and protection for you and your vehicle

In this guide

Vantrue N4

(Image credit: Amy Davies/Digital Camera World)

The Quick List ↩
1. Best overall - Garmin 67W
2. Best mini  - Garmin mini 2
3. Best 4K  - Nextbase 622GW
4. Best for security - Nextbase iQ
5. Best for ease of use - Nexar Beam
6. Best budget - Thinkware F70
7. Best value 4K - Miofive 4K
8. Best hard-wired - Thinkware U1000
How to choose
How we test

Looking for the best dash cam for your vehicle? Our expert guide will help you choose the right model for your budget and requirements. With a dash cam installed, you’ll always have video evidence at hand, should you need to prove your innocence after an accident.

Alistair Charlton
Alistair Charlton

Alistair is a technology and automotive journalist who has reviewed dozens of dash cams over the years. Whether they are $20 or $400, he has tried and tested dash cams from companies like Garmin, Thinkware and Nextbase, as well as lesser-known brands. Every model is fitted to his car and used as if his own before it is reviewed, and then judged if suitable as recommendations in one of our buying guides. With over a decade of experience, Alistair also writes for Wired, Forbes, T3, and The Independent. A typical week includes reviewing light switches, Lamborghinis, and everything in between.

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Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesGPS, Wifi, parking mode and even a battery for short cable-free journeys if you like, the 67W has it all.★★★★★
DesignAttractive, compact and intuitive, but some prefer their dash cams without a screen.★★★★
Video qualityBeyond HD but without the massive file sizes of 4K★★★★★
ValueLots of dash cams cost less, but few manage to offer such good value at this price point.★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesWith its small size comes a smaller feature set, but this still packs Full HD, HDR, 60fps, Wifi and voice control.★★★★
DesignThis tiny dash cam is so small you’ll forget it’s even there★★★★★
Video qualityFull HD video with HDR at 30 frames per second is impressive for a dash cam of this size.★★★★
ValueNot the cheapest, but the Mini 2 still offers great value★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesFrom 4K video to Alexa, support for extra cameras and emergency calling, this dash cam has the lot.★★★★★
DesignCompact for its capabilities, the 622GW has a clever magnetic mount with an integrated GPS aerial.★★★★
Video qualityProduces 4K video at 30 frames per second, or you can drop to Full HD for the maximum 120 fps.★★★★★
ValuePretty expensive, but that’s the price you pay for all those extra features and 4K goodness.★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
Features4G is the big one here, turning this dash cam into a security camera for your car.★★★★★
DesignChunky but well made, the Nextbase iQ manages to pack an awful lot into its big body. ★★★★
Video quality4K video quality is excellent during the day and at night, while interior footage captutred in Full HD with infrared night vision is also top-notch.★★★★★
ValueThere’s no getting around just how expensive the Nextbase iQ is, especially when selecting the 4K model and adding a rear camera. Then there’s the subscription cost.★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesGPS and Wifi are the big features here, along with a great phone app.★★★★
DesignNexar could have done a better job with the suction cup and GPS antenna★★★
Video qualityFull HD at 30 frames per second is table stakes these days, but video from the Nexar Beam looks particularly good.★★★★
ValueThe good video quality, relatively compact design and excellent smartphone app make it feel like good value.★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesAlthough one of the simplest dash cams around, the F70 Pro still has a parking mode when hardwired, and infrared night vision★★★
DesignThe F70 Pro is one of the smallest dash cams on the market today. It takes up very little windshield real estate, and when hardwired provides a very neat installation.★★★★
Video qualityI was hoping for more from the F70 Pro’s video quality. It’s just about passable, with important details like street signs and vehicle license plates readable at short distances, but doesn’t make the best use of its Full HD resolution.★★★
ValueAt $80 in the US, the F70 Pro represents decent value for money. It comes from a reputable brand and ticks the basics, while taking up little space and keeping things nice and simple.★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesWifi, GPS and a display are the biggest features here, as well as optional hardwiring and, of course, the option for 4K video★★★★★
DesignSurprisingly compact for a dash cam packing 4K video and a display; nicely designed windscreen mount, too.★★★★
Video qualityGreat video at 4K resolution and 30 frames per second. Lens a touch narrow, at just 140 degrees, and 4K file sizes can be massive, but overall the Miofive performs well.★★★★
ValueFantastic value, especially considering the 4K sensor and inclusion of both GPS and speedy 5GHz Wifi. There’s a generous 64GB of internal storage, too.★★★★★
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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
Features4K video is a standout feature here, along a streamlined design, GPS and option for OBD power★★★★
DesignIt’s not the smallest dash cam, but its slim, windshield-hugging profile makes it a discreet addition to your car interior.★★★★
Video qualityExcellent 4K footage at 30fps, or the option to shoot 1440p at 60fps★★★★★
ValueA dash cam recording at 4K was never going to be cheap, but I still think the U1000 represents good value for your money. ★★★★
Alistair Charlton

Alistair has been a journalist since 2011 and used to be Deputy Technology Editor at IBTimes  in London. His specialist tech subjects include smart home gadgets, phones, wearables, tablets and dashcams. He is the host of  The AutoChat Podcast.

With contributions from