Dash Cam Essentials: Reddit‘s 10 Best Picks for 2023
By Tech Guru
Dash cams have surged in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. These compact cameras continuously record the view through your vehicle‘s windshield, providing an extra set of eyes on the road. In the unfortunate event of an accident, dash cam footage offers undeniable evidence of what really happened. Dash cams can help expedite insurance claims, prove your innocence, and even sometimes capture entertaining moments on the road.
With so many models on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to pick the right dash cam for your needs and budget. That‘s where the Reddit community comes in handy. Reddit houses the collective wisdom of millions of real product users who generously share their honest opinions and experiences. The r/dashcam subreddit in particular is an invaluable resource, with over 220,000 members contributing dash cam recommendations, reviews, and advice daily.
To save you hours of combing through Reddit threads, we‘ve compiled this definitive list of Reddit‘s 10 most recommended dash cams for 2023, based on upvotes and positive reviews. We evaluated models based on essential criteria including video quality, reliability, storage capacity, ease of use, and extra features. We paid special attention to dash cams tried and trusted by Reddit user Grace Sunny, one of the most active and knowledgeable members of r/dashcam who has personally tested dozens of models.
Whether you‘re a first-time dash cam buyer or looking to upgrade your current setup, this list has you covered with the best options at every price point. Let‘s dive in.
Best Overall: Viofo A119 V3
The Viofo A119 V3 tops our list as Reddit‘s most recommended dash cam overall. This feature-packed model records crystal clear 2K Quad HD video at 1440p resolution with a wide 140-degree field of view. Equipped with a cutting-edge Sony STARVIS sensor and a large F1.6 aperture 7-element glass lens, the A119 V3 excels in low-light conditions, capturing crisp video even at night.
The A119 V3 has a stealthy wedge-shaped design that hugs close to the windshield for a low profile install. It records to a microSD card (up to 256GB supported) with seamless loop recording. When impact is detected by the built-in G-sensor, the camera automatically saves and locks the current video file to prevent overwriting.
Other notable features include integrated GPS logging, time lapse mode, and a new 2.0" high resolution screen for video playback right on the device. Reddit user Grace Sunny praises the A119 V3 for its "excellent video quality, easy setup process, and unbeatable value for the price."
Pros:
- 2K QHD 1440p video
- Excellent night vision with Sony STARVIS sensor
- Integrated GPS
- 256GB microSD support
- Compact low-profile design
Cons: - Requires hardwiring kit for parking mode (sold separately)
- No cloud connectivity
Best Budget 1080p: Blueskysea B1W
The Blueskysea B1W is a mini-sized dash cam that records sharp 1080p Full HD video in a stealthy package. Measuring just 3.5 x 1.14 x 1.5 inches, this tiny camera virtually disappears behind your rear view mirror. But don‘t let the small size fool you – the B1W packs a punch with a Sony IMX323 sensor, 150-degree lens, and Ultra Night Vision technology.
Easy to set up with either adhesive or suction cup mounts, the B1W supports up to a 256GB microSD card and saves locked incident videos when the G-sensor detects a collision. In parking mode, the B1W springs into action if motion or vibration is detected to capture hit-and-runs.
The built-in Wi-Fi makes it a breeze to configure settings, view, and save videos right on your smartphone using the Blueskysea app. Grace Sunny calls the B1W "hands down the best dash cam you can get on a tight budget" and loves that "the small size makes it very discreet."
Pros:
- 1080p Full HD video
- Compact, discreet design
- 150° wide angle lens
- Built-in Wi-Fi and app
- Great value
Cons: - No GPS
- Some users report app connectivity issues
Best Premium 4K: BlackVue DR900X-2CH
For those seeking the ultimate in video quality and features, the BlackVue DR900X-2CH is Reddit‘s top luxury pick. This professional-grade 2-channel system records razor-sharp 4K Ultra HD 3840 x 2160 video front and rear simultaneously.
With an 8-megapixel CMOS sensor and 162-degree lens up front and a 2.1MP Full HD Sony STARVIS sensor out back, the DR900X excels in any lighting conditions, even total darkness. Built-in GPS, advanced parking mode, cloud connectivity, and dual-band 5GHz Wi-Fi set this dash cam apart.
Access your footage remotely anytime from your phone with BlackVue‘s Over the Cloud service. Get real-time alerts if your car is hit or moved when parked. The DR900X‘s high price is its only downside, but Grace Sunny affirms it‘s "worth every penny for the exceptional 4K clarity, rock-solid reliability, and remote live view."
Pros:
- Front/rear 4K+1080p
- 8MP CMOS sensor with ultra low light sensitivity
- 162° angle front, 139° rear
- Cloud-capable with live view
- Advanced parking mode with buffers
- Integrated GPS
- Dual-band 5GHz Wi-Fi
Cons: - High price
- May require professional hardwiring
Best Stealth: Street Guardian SG9663DCPRO
The Street Guardian SG9663DCPRO proves that the best things can come in small, unassuming packages. This compact cylinder-shaped dash cam measures just 2.4 x 1.1 inches, making it one of the smallest and most nondescript models available.
But inside, the SG9663DCPRO sports an Omnivision OV4689 sensor that records extremely clear 1080p video at 60fps with a 140-degree field of view. A supercapacitor provides reliable power even in extreme temperatures that would cause traditional lithium-ion batteries to fail.
In parking mode, the camera records in time lapse to conserve space while never missing a moment. Grace Sunny applauds the "insanely tiny size" of this dash cam and says "the quality is amazing for something so small. I forgot it was even there!"
Pros:
- Extremely compact design
- 1080p 60fps video
- 140° wide viewing angle
- Supercapacitor for reliability
- Time lapse parking mode
Cons: - No rear camera option
- Lacks Wi-Fi/cloud features
Best Budget Dual Channel: Viofo A129 Duo
Front and rear coverage on a budget can be hard to find, but Reddit users agree the Viofo A129 Duo nails it. This dual channel system records 1080p Full HD video front and rear simultaneously with a wide 140-degree field of view.
The front camera uses a top-notch Sony EXMOR IMX291 sensor while the rear packs a Sony STARVIS IMX323 for excellent low light sensitivity. Both cameras have large F1.6 7-element lenses for optimal clarity day or night.
The A129 Duo supports up to 256GB microSD cards and features built-in Wi-Fi for easy viewing and sharing. Optional GPS and CPL filter attachments are also available. As Grace Sunny puts it, "You simply can‘t beat the A129 Duo for the price. The 1080p video is super sharp front and rear and it has all the essential features."
Pros:
- 1080p front and rear
- Sony EXMOR/STARVIS sensors
- Wide 140° field of view
- Up to 256GB microSD
- Built-in Wi-Fi
Cons: - GPS requires separate mount
- No interior-facing camera
Best Taxi/Uber Cam: Vantrue N4
For rideshare drivers who need to record both the road and their passengers, the Vantrue N4 is Reddit‘s go-to. This innovative 3-channel dash cam records 1440p video up front, 1080p in the rear, and 1080p in the cabin simultaneously.
Four infrared LEDs provide clear interior recording even in total darkness without disturbing passengers. Dual Sony sensors ensure top-notch imaging on all channels. With a 160-degree front lens, 165-degree rear lens, and 165-degree interior lens, virtually nothing escapes the N4‘s watchful eyes.
24-hour parking monitoring, collision detection, and optional GPS round out this versatile dash cam‘s features. Grace Sunny, an Uber driver herself, says "The N4 gives me total peace of mind. The night vision is impressive and being able to record the front, rear, and cabin all at once is game-changing."
Pros:
- Three-way 1440p+1080p+1080p recording
- Infrared night vision for interior
- Wide angle lenses on all channels
- 24 hour parking mode
- Supports up to 256GB microSD
Cons: - Bulky design
- GPS not integrated
Most User-Friendly: Garmin Dash Cam 66W
While Garmin may be better known for their GPS navigation devices, their Dash Cam 66W proves they‘re a serious contender in the dash cam arena too. Incredibly easy to set up and use, the 66W is a great pick for dash cam newbies.
With a crisp 2.5K 1440p resolution, 180-degree field of view, and unique Travelapse feature that condenses hours of scenic driving footage into short highlight videos, the 66W is a joy to use. Voice commands allow you to tell it to save a picture, record video, or start Travelapse hands-free.
Grace Sunny calls the 66W "the most intuitive dash cam I‘ve ever tested" and loves the "super wide 180-degree lens that captures everything." The only downside is there‘s no rear camera option. But for solo front recording, you can‘t beat the user-friendly simplicity of the Garmin 66W.
Pros:
- 2.5K 1440p resolution
- 180° wide angle lens
- Intuitive interface
- Voice control
- Fun Travelapse feature
Cons: - No rear cam
- Relatively expensive for 1-channel
Best 360° Coverage: Zenfox T3 3CH
To record in front, inside, and behind your vehicle in every direction, the Zenfox T3 3CH is Reddit‘s reigning 360° champion. With a 1440p 165-degree front cam, a 1080p 160-degree rear cam, and a 720p 160-degree interior cam, the T3 doesn‘t miss a thing.
Infrared LEDs help the cabin camera see clearly even at night without disturbing the driver. The T3‘s Sony sensors, advanced WDR (wide dynamic range) technology, and large F1.8 apertures ensure bright, crisp video quality under all lighting conditions.
The T3 3CH supports up to 256GB microSD cards and features built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, parking mode, and a supercapacitor for extreme temperature resilience. As Grace Sunny sums it up, "If you want the most comprehensive coverage possible, the T3 3CH has you covered on all sides. The triple-camera setup is impressive and video quality is great all around."
Pros:
- 360° recording in all directions
- 1440p 165° front, 1080p 160° rear, 720p 160° interior
- Sony sensors with F1.8 apertures
- Infrared night vision for interior
- GPS and Wi-Fi built in
- Supercapacitor
Cons: - Interior camera only 720p
- Somewhat pricey
Best Voice Control: Thinkware U1000
While many dash cams now offer voice commands, the Thinkware U1000 takes it a step further with advanced Voice Feedback. Not only can you tell the U1000 to take videos, save clips, or enter parking mode hands-free, the camera talks back to you with proactive safety alerts.
For instance, it may say "Warning, forward car start", "Warning, you are in a school zone", or "You are in a high accident zone" to help keep you alert and aware on the road. Verbal notifications make the U1000 easy to operate without ever taking your hands off the wheel.
Dual front 4K 150-degree and rear 2K 140-degree cameras, Sony STARVIS sensors, integrated GPS, Advanced Driver Assistance (ADAS) features, and Cloud connectivity complete this premium package. According to Grace Sunny, "The U1000‘s Voice Feedback feature is a game changer. It‘s like having a co-pilot. The extra safety and convenience is awesome."
Pros:
- Unique Voice Feedback safety alerts
- Dual front 4K/rear 2K Sony cams
- Wide 150° and 140° viewing angles
- ADAS features like Forward Collision Warning
- Cloud-compatible
Cons: - Expensive
- May be more features than some users need
Best Motorcycle Dash Cam: Thinkware M1
Motorcyclists looking for a rugged, waterproof dash cam should look no further than the Thinkware M1. This durable cam is specifically designed to withstand the elements, attaching securely to your helmet or bike with a 3M adhesive mount.
The M1 records sharp Full HD 1080p 30fps video with a wide 140-degree field of view to capture more of the road. A unique Parking Incident Recording feature acts as a motion-activated surveillance camera for your parked bike.
Wi-Fi connectivity, GPS logging, and a handy remote control button make the M1 convenient and intuitive to operate on the go. Grace Sunny, an avid motorcyclist, says "This is the most well-designed motorcycle dash cam I‘ve tried. The waterproofing, wide angle lens, and Parking Incident Recording give me total peace of mind."
Pros:
- Rugged and fully waterproof (IP66 rated)
- 1080p Full HD video
- 140° wide angle lens
- Parking Incident Recording surveillance mode
- Wi-Fi and GPS enabled
Cons: - Records front view only
- No screen (relies on smartphone app)
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right dash cam is largely about finding the best intersection of video quality, reliability, features, and price for your specific needs. However, this roundup of Reddit‘s most popular, community-tested models is a great starting point.
Whether you‘re looking for the most affordable, most compact, most fully-featured, or most motorcycle-friendly option, one of the dash cams on this list should fit the bill. While no dash cam is 100% perfect, these ten picks represent the cream of the crop for 2023 according to thousands of real Reddit users.
Special thanks to Reddit user Grace Sunny and all the other helpful folks at r/dashcam who contributed their experiences and expertise to inform these recommendations. Stay safe out there and happy recording!
