Top dash cams from Thinkware, Garmin, Nextbase, and other manufacturers
Although people frequently ask us which dash cams are the finest, the truth is that no dash cam is ideal for every driver or car. Of course, a decent dash cam should be able to record clear footage of the road ahead among other things. However, the importance of additional features will depend on your budget and unique requirements. For this reason, we’ve evaluated a broad range of dash cams, from budget-friendly versions to high-end recording setups.
We believe that the Nextbase iQ is currently the best option for the majority of individuals based on our thorough reviews. With a full range of help and security functions, as well as more coming soon through firmware updates, this dash cam is among the smartest ones we’ve tried. However, given that it’s among the priciest dash cams on our list, there’s a strong possibility you might choose for something else.
Every dash cam is put to the test in a variety of real-world settings by our knowledgeable staff. From setup and usage to the dependability of the help features and overall video quality, these sincere reviews have it all covered. To make your decision about which dash cam to buy as simple as possible, we list the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Our brief Top 5 Best Dash Cam of 2024 summary below provides an overview of the finest dash cams for drivers of all budgets, giving you a quick route to the best choices. Once you’ve selected one that meets your needs, click the links below to view our complete article.
Table of Contents
The best dash cam in 2024
Complete reviews of each of the top dash cams on our list can be found below. We’ve thoroughly tested every one of them, so you know that our suggestions are reliable.
NO.1 : Nextbase iQ
The best next-gen dash cam with smart features
Pros
- One-stop safety solution
- Impressive smart features
- Nicely designed and made
Cons
- Full functionality behind a paywall
- More features than many will need
- Expensive with added subscription
As Top 5 Best Dash Cam of 2024 feature-rich as dash cams go, the Nextbase iQ is a smart security camera for your vehicle. This premium solution, which comes in 1K, 2K, and 4K editions, has a suite of related talents. This includes GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity, parking assistance, a voice-activated Witness Mode, and the option to check in on your car using the Nextbase iQ app. An internal camera is standard on all three models, and a rear-facing camera is an optional feature. To fully take advantage of its capabilities, a paid subscription is required, so the iQ can quickly add up in price.
However, our testing revealed that it’s also a really good one. In our review, setup was straightforward, and using the app’s numerous functions was a breeze. As expected, the audio and video from our 4K review unit were also quite good. The system is powered solely by the vehicle’s battery, thus it is operational even when the engine is off. The Nextbase iQ is as smart as they get if you want a complete, all-in-one camera to watch your car at all times, yet it will be too much for many drivers.
NO.2 : Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2
The best budget dash cam
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Full HD video with HDR
Cons
- Lacks a display
- No battery
- No GPS
The Garmin Mini 2 is so small that it can be hidden behind the rearview mirror of your vehicle. It records in Full HD at 30 frames per second with HDR despite its size. In our assessment, it provided video that was sufficiently sharp to identify important elements, like as registration plates, in every kind of weather or ambient light. In our experiments, we also discovered that installation was fast and easy. Little space is taken up by the plastic arm on the windshield, and it is simple to adjust thanks to the ball-and-socket joint.
The UI is equally user-friendly; despite the lack of a display, shortcut buttons enable one-touch recording of clips and microphone muting. We discovered that you can quickly adjust settings, go through recordings, and verify the camera’s perspective with the Garmin Drive smartphone app (available for iOS and Android). Although the only features available are voice commands and a collision-detection g-sensor, we believed that GPS was the only significant missing feature. The Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 will not disappoint unless you require the greatest dash cam with driver aid features. This technology is the epitome of set-and-forget—it’s unobtrusive, dependable, and easy to use.
NO.3 : Nextbase 622GW
The best all-rounder dash cam
Pros
- Alexa and what3words built-in
- Superb video quality
Cons
- Requires large capacity SD card
- Poor smartphone app
We believe the Nextbase 622GW is a great device with great features and video quality. Its tests revealed nearly cinematic 4K/30p video with excellent detail and sharp definition. In difficult situations, low-light algorithms also yield better results. You may capture 120 frames per second in slow motion when shooting in 1080p, which helps you to more easily identify details like registration numbers. We were also delighted by the degree to which the computerized picture stabilization effectively attenuated road vibrations and the built-in polarizing filter decreased windscreen glare.
Our testing did show that the 3-inch touchscreen needed clear swipe inputs, and that setup was a little tricky. In order to transfer video clips, we also encountered some connection issues with our iPhones. Nevertheless, we believe that generally, the 622GW is an easy camera to operate. Its UI is user-friendly, and the display is large, crisp, and clear. When an incident is identified, video is automatically saved. The 622GW can also locate the affected vehicles and forward the footage to emergency vehicles, all made possible by the ingenious integration of what3words. The 622GW is a capable dash cam that consistently records crisp 4K video; but, the Nextbase iQ (above) is even more intelligent.
NO.4 : Vantrue E1
The best low-profile 4K dash cam
Pros
- Good video quality
- Neat, compact design
Cons
- 2K only captured at 30fps
- No left/right adjustment
The Vantrue E1 is a sleek, rather small dash cam with 2.5K video recording at 30 frames per second. For better detail while you drive, it can also capture Full HD video at a smoother 60 frames per second. Our review’s results showed that the images were clear day and night, with true colors and manageable noise in low light. Additionally, the 160-degree angle provides a broad view of the horizon, and the optional polarizing filter effectively lowers dashboard reflections, according to our testing.
The E1’s magnetic mount is effective, in our opinion, but if it cannot be positioned in the center, its usage is limited by the lack of sideways adjustment. When installing, a small 1.54-inch screen provides a preview; nevertheless, the smartphone app is a more practical way to adjust the settings. The driver assistance features of other dash cams are not available to you, therefore you or your car must look for speed cameras and possible collisions. Nevertheless, Wi-Fi and GPS connectivity are still available, and we appreciate that Vantrue prioritized video quality above needless extras.
NO.5 : Thinkware X1000
The best dash cam for ease of use
Pros
- Great touch screen
- Two cameras in the box
Cons
- Hard-wiring requires care
- Records as soon as connected
Thinkware’s X1000 is a capable yet easily accessible camera that comes with all the accessories you need to record both front and rear. The X1000 proved to be rather satisfactory in our testing. Several sticky pads are needed for installation, and we thought the user manual could have done a better job of explaining everything and making setup easier. The complete feature set, which includes parking surveillance, can only be unlocked by hardwiring it; GPS and radar detection are add-ons.
Nevertheless, the item feels well-assembled once it is in place. Its greatest feature is how easy it is to use: with an expansive 3.5-inch touchscreen and an icon-based interface, it requires no additional smartphone apps and is easy to configure. The touchscreen may be used to adjust the capture settings, but our experience was positive right out of the box. Even in low light, the results from both cameras were remarkable, displaying a good dynamic range and an abundance of fine detail. The X1000 does a lot of things well for a stress-free and trustworthy dash cam.
How to choose the best dash cam for you
One, two, or even three cameras can be found in the greatest dash cams. Three-camera dash cams are more geared toward professional drivers who are logging miles; they add an extra perspective from the outside of the vehicle and are particularly helpful for trucks. Single camera dash cams record the outside view from your windscreen; dual dash cams add an inside facing camera, which is especially useful for ride-share drivers like taxis.
As elucidated below, video resolution is a crucial factor to take into account while selecting a dash cam. The majority of dash cameras made in 2024 have Full HD video recording capabilities, which is typically sufficient to detect fine features in a video clip. Although they often cost more, Sharper 4K dash cams record footage at a greater resolution. This makes it simpler to extract important information, including license plates, therefore 4K dash cams typically provide greater peace of mind in terms of safety.
Frame rates for videos are also significant. While analyzing footage at full speed, most dash cams record at 30 frames per second, but the finest models capture action at a smoother 60 frames per second. With the ability to slow down video after the event, you can more easily pick up details at half speed. Full HD footage at 60 frames per second is becoming more and more popular for dash cams, but 4K 60fps recording is usually limited to professional dash cams. Digital image stabilization is another feature on some models—like the Nextbase 622GW—that helps to smooth down video captured on choppy roadways.
A touchscreen display, a companion app, GPS, parking surveillance, voice control, sat nav, and what3words are just a few of the many features to take into account.
Purchasing a dash cam with satellite navigation is worthwhile if your older car lacks an infotainment system, but if your vehicle already has satellite navigation, it makes little sense. GPS location data is useful for incident reporting, and some models even come with what3words geolocation data, which provides the most accurate means of locating your car and is extremely helpful in the event of an emergency.
The Best Dash Cams in 2024 : FAQS
Q1. What are Bestfluencer’s top 5 best dash cams in 2024?
According to Bestfluencer’s review, the top 5 best dash cams available in 2024 are:
Thinkware X1000
Vantrue E1
Nextbase 622GW
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2
Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam
Q2. What makes the Thinkware X1000 special?
High-def video recording, wide dynamic range, enhanced night vision, lane departure warnings, and front collision warnings are some of the advanced features that make the Thinkware X1000 stand out.
Q3. Why choose the Vantrue E1?
Compact in design, easy to mount, and high in video quality, this recommends a Vantrue E1. It can track your route with a built-in GPS and has a parking mode, making it able to serve several purposes for any driver.
Q4. Some major features of the Nextbase 622GW include
The Nextbase 622GW records in 4K ultra HD and has image stabilization, plus what3words integration to pinpoint a vehicle’s location. There’s also an emergency SOS feature that will alert emergency services in the event of an accident.
Q5. How does the Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 stack up against the competition?
It has an ultra-compact design—nearly invisible on the windshield, off the front glass. It produces high-quality video and features voice control, allowing for hands-free operation.
Q6. What sets the Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam apart?
What really differentiates the Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam, however, is the addition of smart features such as Alexa integration and ADAS. It also records in 1440p HD and has intelligent parking mode.
Q7. Are these dash cams easy to install?
Yes, all of the dash cams in this list are designed to be user-friendly. Indeed, they come with full guides on how to install them. The majority of these often feature adhesive mounts or suction cups that make it easy to set up.
Q.8 Do any of these dash cams support parking mode?
Yes. Most of the dash cams reviewed, which include the Thinkware X1000, the Vantrue E1, and Nextbase models, come with parking mode. This feature allows them to go on recording events even while parked.
Q9. Can these dash cams connect via a smartphone?
Yes, almost all these dash cams—including the Nextbase 622GW and the Nextbase iQ Smart Dash Cam—have connectivity to a smartphone via their dedicated apps, allowing users to view or download footage straight on their phone.
Q10. Where should I buy these dash cams from?
You can find these dash cams on online retailers or through the manufacturers’ websites. To make things easier, Bestfluencer has actually included buying links within the article itself so readers can buy any of the recommended models quickly and easily.
