December 20, 2023

best car cameras

In my research, I examined various sources, including Reddit discussions, product review websites, and articles from reputable websites like TechRadar, The New York Times' Wirecutter, and Popular Science. The majority of these sources focused on dash cams, with some discussing cameras for car photography. There was a general consensus on the top recommended dash cams, with Vantrue and Garmin frequently mentioned. However, recommendations for car photography cameras varied depending on user preferences and budgets. Overall, the sources provided a wide range of options for both dash cams and car photography cameras, but the level of consensus was higher for dash cams.

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Vantrue N4 Dash Cam

Vantrue N4 Dash Cam

The Vantrue N4 Dash Cam is often recommended as the best dash cam overall, praised for its exceptional video quality, excellent performance in low-light conditions, and offering front, cabin, and rear cameras. It also has advanced motion detection capabilities and easy merging of the three video streams. However, it does have some downsides, such as no option for lower resolution with 60 FPS, no GPS mount included, and video codec in h.265 format that may not be supported by older computers. The Vantrue N4 is also Wirecutter's top pick for the best overall dash cam.
BOOGIIO Dash Cam

BOOGIIO Dash Cam

The BOOGIIO Dash Cam is recommended as the best budget dash cam, providing crystal clear 1080p video quality, excellent night vision capabilities, and an easy setup process. Some downsides include a small 32GB micro SD limit on recording time, files saved in AVI format that may require conversion for some devices, and not-so-easy-to-navigate menu options.
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2

Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2

The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is both TechRadar's best budget dash cam and Wirecutter's also-great pick. Despite its small size, it records in Full HD at 30fps with HDR, producing sharp enough footage to pick out key details. It connects to Wi-Fi, offers night vision and 24-hour parked-car monitoring, and adhesive magnet mounts. However, it requires the use of the Garmin app for settings control, as it has no display.
Nextbase 622GW Dash Cam

Nextbase 622GW Dash Cam

The Nextbase 622GW is recommended as the best high-end dash cam, with crystal-clear 1440p resolution, a wide 180° field of view, and advanced driver assistance features like traffic motion alerts, lane departure warnings, and tailgating alerts. It is also Wirecutter's upgrade pick, offering Bluetooth and app connectivity, built-in Alexa support, and emergency calling. However, it lacks the sweltering high-temperature protection of the other picks, with a maximum temperature of 140 °F.

Car Photography Cameras

For car photography, recommendations vary depending on user preferences and budgets. Users on Reddit suggested options like the m43 system with Olympus and Panasonic, Fujifilm X100v, Canon 700/800D with a 35 or 50mm prime lens or a used 70-200 from Sigma or Tamron, and a used Fujifilm X-T2 with an 18-55mm kit lens. Some users also recommended using a phone camera with a CPL filter for car photography, especially for those on a tight budget.

Budget Dash Cams Under $100

Popular Science recommends several dash cams under $100, including the HP F650 (best overall), Ssontong Dash Cam (best 2-channel), Vantrue N1 Pro (best parking mode), REXING V1 (best heat handling), and Angel Case Dash Cam (best budget). These options provide a variety of features at affordable prices, making them suitable for those on a tight budget.

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"https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/buying-guides/best-budget-dash-cams"

  • The webpage discusses the best budget dash cams of 2023, with a focus on affordable options priced at under $200 and even under $100.
  • It mentions that some of the best dash cams on the market can cost hundreds of dollars and require a monthly subscription for the best features, but that there are still plenty of great options for those on a budget.
  • The article explains the importance of having a dash cam in a car, especially in the event of an accident or legal dispute.
  • It notes that many dash cams offer features like GPS, speed camera alerts, voice control, and parking mode (where they start recording when a collision is detected), and that even budget dash cams often include these features.
  • The webpage lists 8 budget dash cams from different brands, including Nextbase, Thinkware, Garmin, and Kingslim, with brief reviews and specifications for each.
  • The article highlights the best budget dash cam overall, the best compact budget dash cam, the best budget dash cam with a display, the best budget front and rear dash cam, and the best budget Uber dash cam.
  • For each dash cam recommendation, the article provides specifications like video quality, viewing angle, integrated GPS, and screen size, as well as reasons to buy and avoid each model.
  • The article mentions several dash cams that have a second camera for interior recording, making them ideal for taxi drivers or those who frequently transport passengers.
  • It talks about how many dash cams require a hardwiring kit for parking mode to work, which is sold separately.
  • The article mentions that some dash cam models offer cloud storage for recorded footage, but that this may require a subscription.
  • Several of the dash cams recommended on the website have Wi-Fi, infrared night vision, and/or a touchscreen display.
  • The webpage is from Digital Camera World and promises that all of the dash cams recommended have been tested by their expert reviewers.
  • The article includes links to full reviews of each dash cam mentioned, providing more in-depth information for those interested.
  • The webpage also briefly discusses the pros and cons of using a dash cam with a suction cup mount compared to a dash cam with a tape or adhesive mount.

"https://www.techradar.com/best/best-dash-cam"

Title: The best dash cam 2023: finest car cameras for every budget

  • Dash cams give peace of mind while driving by capturing video evidence of everything on the road
  • Ranked results of expert dash cam reviews
  • Top picks include simple, affordable options to premium multi-cam models
  • Goal is to help users find the right in-car camera for their needs and budget
  • Best overall: Nextbase 622GW with impressive 4K video quality, flagship feature set, large touchscreen, and best balance of price and performance for most people
  • Best budget: Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 with tiny size and Full HD at 30fps with HDR, sharp enough to pick out key detail
  • Best smart: Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam with 4K resolution, easy to use, packed with clever features, requires a subscription
  • Best for high-mileage drivers: Nexar Pro, a dual-cam solution aimed at those who spend extended periods behind the wheel, limited to 1080p
  • Best low-profile 4K: Vantrue E1 is neat, relatively compact, and capable of recording 2.5K video at 30fps
  • Best for ease of use: Thinkware X1000 with a large 3.5-inch touchscreen and easy-to-use icon-based interface, no smartphone partner app needed
  • Best value 4K: BlackVue DR750X-2CH and DR900X-2CH adding a 2K rear camera to a slick front unit with proven video quality, generous feature set
  • Best for ride-share drivers: Vantrue N2 Pro designed with taxi drivers in mind, forgoes many of the extras which your car is already likely to have, no speed camera alerts or collision warnings
  • Best 3-camera option for pro drivers: Viofo A139. If you require coverage of your vehicle’s front, rear and interior, Viofo’s package offers a lot for the money and ideal for those that cover long distances
  • Best for older analogue vehicle: Garmin DriveCam 76 combines a dash cam and a sat nav with intuitive 7-inch display, feature-packed tool for vehicles without an infotainment system
  • Each dash cam has been tested by TechRadar and meets their minimum standards for producing sharp videos that clearly pick out details and have a wide field of view
  • Includes tips for how to pick the best dash cam for your needs and how to get started with a dash cam
  • Written by

"Cheap Beginner camera for car photography"

  • Title: “Cheap Beginner camera for car photography”
  • Posted a month ago on r/Cameras, with 9 points.
  • User recommended going to a camera store and trying out different cameras.
  • A different user recommended getting a camera that you enjoy using, as it will make you more likely to carry it around and use it.
  • Some users shared their personal experiences with cameras they own:
    • User has a Nikon D5000 and an Olympus EP3 but prefers the Olympus because it’s easier to use and carry.
    • A user learned to shoot on a Canon G5 and has nothing against point-and-shoot cameras.
    • A user recommended getting an older DSLR with a 50mm lens.
    • A user suggested getting a Sony NEX series camera for around $200.
    • A user bought a D3300 with an 18-55mm kit lens for $180 as their first camera.
    • A user recommended a Canon 60d with a kit lens or a Sony A6000.
    • A user recommended getting a cheap Nikon/Canon DSLR with a cheap prime lens.
  • One user recommended using a phone camera and getting a CPL filter for the car, and maybe an ND filter for dramatic shots with the sun in the background.
  • Another user suggested different types of car photography may require different lenses - for example wide-angle lenses for carspotting but longer telephoto lenses for motorsports.
  • A dedicated camera may allow for direct access to exposure & focus controls via dedicated buttons, access to zoom lenses, the ability to use accessory flash and other off-camera lighting, and better ergonomics and handling.
  • A basic DSLR or mirrorless camera could be enough to teach you about cameras.
  • The Panasonic Lumix G3 or G5 and Nikon D90 with 18-55 or 18-105 kit lens may fit the stated budget.
  • Some users suggested buying from pawn shops or secondhand markets, like Music City Pawn.
  • One user recommended the Sony F717 or F828 because the tilting lens barrel makes ground level or above the head shots easier.
  • Some users warn about buying used cameras since it’s easy to get ripped off.
  • Users had different opinions on the usefulness of buying a camera in the $150 range. Some think it’s better to use your phone camera, while others believe that a cheap DSLR or mirrorless camera with a kit lens can work just fine.
  • One user argued that getting a cheap camera is still better

"Affordable Entry Level Camera for Car Photography"

Here are my notes from the webpage:

  • A user is looking for an affordable entry-level camera for car photography with a budget of around $1k.
  • One user recommends the m43 system with Olympus and Panasonic. You can get lots of gear for great pricing. Perfect if you aren’t printing but sharing online mostly.
  • Another user recommends the Fujifilm X100v, which is a fixed lens camera.
  • A third user recommends an APSC camera, preferably a Canon 700/800D, with a 35 or 50mm prime lens or a used 70-200 from Sigma or Tamron. If you are not specifically looking for a mirror less camera, a DSLR is a great option to learn with.
  • A fourth user suggests looking for a used Fujifilm X-T2 and 18-55mm kit lens. The combo will run you like $800 tops. If you want a bigger zoom, the 16-80 F4 is a great option.
  • The same user notes that another option for car photography is to use film at an auto event.
  • The user who suggested the Canon camera notes that a polarizing filter and tripod would also be useful.
  • One user mentions that some folks still use their phones to take car photos, while others use very expensive cameras.
  • Another user shares an Instagram post featuring photos taken at a time trial event with a Pentax SF1 and Fuji 200 film.

Overall, the webpage provides several suggestions for an entry-level camera for car photography, ranging from the m43 system to DSLRs to mirrorless cameras. The recommendations focus on specific camera models as well as lenses and accessories like filters and tripods. One user even recommends using film for certain events.

"https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-dash-cams-under-100/"

  • Website title: “The best dash cams under $100 in 2023”
  • Dash cams for cars have been helpful in catching hit-and-run automobile accidents, staged pedestrian accident scams, and meteor showers.
  • Dash cams provide the ability to monitor exterior views of the car and review the data after the fact.
  • The year is 2022, and under $100 dash cams have quality and features to help.
  • Top 5 dash cams are mentioned:
    • HP F650 (Best overall)
      • Pros: Warning system, low-effort installation, loop recording with event highlights, locks video clips when an accident occurs
      • Cons: No rear-facing camera
    • Ssontong Dash Cam (Best 2-channel)
      • Pros: Includes backup cam with guidelines, sensitive G-Sensor, full value for price
      • Cons: Low angle of view rear cam
    • Vantrue N1 Pro (Best parking mode)
      • Pros: Superior night vision, quality collision and motion detection, battery protection
      • Cons: Front cam only
    • REXING V1 (Best heat handling)
      • Pros: Best temperature range, sharp, clear image, phone support
      • Cons: Tax could take it over $100, front cam only
    • Angel Case Dash Cam (Best budget)
      • Pros: Quick installation, fully featured, incredible customer satisfaction
      • Cons: Cheap suction mount, front cam only
  • Criteria for selecting the best dash cam: good specs, intensive value for cost, and peer suggestions, highlighting cams across the full price spectrum.
  • Reviews and recommendations for the selected dash cams.
  • Specs, pros, and cons mentioned for each dash cam.
  • Affiliate disclosure: The website earns revenue from the products available on the page and participates in affiliate programs.
  • Author recommends using a 32GB MicroSD card that could be purchased for well-under $10.
  • Angel Case Dash Cam costs under $35.
  • Ssontong Dash Cam can become a four-channel system, has a bundle available and can be upgraded to include more channels.
  • Vantrue N1 Pro can be bought with the N1 Pro add-on for GPS functionality for around $20, where the total will be right around the $100 mark.
  • REXING V1 is capable of connecting with your phone, and you can offload clips that way as well.
  • Vantrue N1’s SONY Sensor works well in a variety of environments.
  • Parking mode

"https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-dash-cam/"

  • The webpage is a product review page that highlights the best dash cams available on the market.
  • The listed dash cams cover a wide range of budget options, features, and buying options, including a budget pick and an upgrade pick.
  • The recommended dash cams have a front-facing, single-camera option as well as multiple cameras that include interior and rear cameras.
  • The recommended dash cams vary in resolution as well, including 1080p and 2160p (4K/UHD).
  • Key features of the dash cams include night vision, 24-hour parked-car monitoring, GPS tracking, built-in Wi-Fi, app connectivity, voice control, and automatic emergency response capabilities.
  • Each dash cam is reviewed with a brief overview that includes its standout features, buying options, and potential drawbacks.
  • The top pick is the Vantrue N4, praised for its sharp, high-resolution footage, ease of use, compact size, and three perspectives with interior and rear cameras. The review mentions that it is lacking app connectivity for remote video access and built-in GPS tracking.
  • The upgrade pick is the Nextbase 622GW, which has all the features of the Vantrue N4, as well as Bluetooth and app connectivity, built-in Alexa support, and emergency calling. The capacitor power supply helps it operate reliably in extremely cold weather. The review notes that it lacks the sweltering high-temperature protection of the other picks while still keeping a maximum temperature of 140 °F.
  • The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 is the smallest and most discreet model and the also-great pick. It connects to Wi-Fi, offers night vision and 24-hour parked-car monitoring, and adhesive magnet mounts. It requires the use of the Garmin app for settings control as it has no display.
  • The budget pick is the Vantrue N1 Pro, which is small and affordable, with 1080p resolution, night vision, and 24-hour parked-car monitoring. The review mentions its compact size, ease of use, and well-designed mounting system. Like the Vantrue N4, it lacks built-in GPS tracking.
  • The research section discusses how a dash cam can be useful as evidence of an accident, hit-and-run, unsafe conditions, and monitoring the driving habits of someone else in the car. It also quotes a personal injury attorney on how dash cams may affect an insurance claim and their overall usefulness as evidence.
  • The research section also includes information on how to pick the right dash cam, the different

"Best Dash Cam to Buy in 2023"

  • The webpage provides a list of the best dash cams for cars in 2023, sorted by different price ranges and features.
  • The author mentions being an Amazon associate, meaning that they earn a small commission on the products shown in the list.
  • The list includes the Vantrue N4 Dash Cam, BOOGIIO Dash Cam, Garmin Live Dash Cam, Vantrue M2 Dash Cam, REDTIGER Dash Cam, Vantrue N2 Dash Cam, Garmin Dash Cam, and 4K Dash Cam.
  • For each dash cam, the author provides a brief description of its features, along with pros and cons.
  • The Vantrue N4 Dash Cam is recommended as the best dash cam overall, with exceptional video quality and excellent performance in low-light conditions. It includes front, cabin, and rear cameras, as well as advanced motion detection capabilities and easy merging of the three video streams. Its downsides are no option for lower resolution with 60 FPS, no GPS mount included, and video codec in h.265 format that may not be supported by older computers. It has a karma of 66.
  • The BOOGIIO Dash Cam is recommended as the best budget dash cam, with crystal clear 1080p video quality, excellent night vision capabilities and easy setup process. Its downsides are small 32GB micro SD limits recording time, files saved in AVI format that may require conversion for some devices, and not-so-easy-to-navigate menu options. It has a karma of 3.
  • The Garmin Live Dash Cam is recommended as the best high-end dash cam, with crystal-clear 1440p resolution, a wide 180° field of view, and advanced driver assistance features like traffic motion alerts, lane departure warnings, and tailgating alerts. Its downsides are no suction cup mount option available, recording of constant one-minute video clips instead of longer segments, and an expensive monthly fee to store footage longer than 24 hours in Garmin Vault. It has a karma of 14.
  • The Vantrue M2 Dash Cam is recommended as the best mirror dash cam, seamlessly integrating with vehicles while providing exceptional video quality and visibility. It features a touch screen interface, 1440P resolution for both front and rear cameras, improved rearview mirror visibility by 40%, and advanced features like parking mode, collision detection, and automatic video locking and saving. Its downside is that the cutoff voltage is too low for some vehicles, causing potential battery drain. It has a karma of 1

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