Standing in pouring rain with my expensive dash cam streaming footage, I realized why image clarity and night vision are crucial—especially for HGV drivers. I’ve tested cameras that struggle in low light or miss license plates in tunnels, and it’s frustrating. From my experience, the best dash cam not only captures sharp daytime footage but excels in low-light scenarios, with features like advanced sensors and HDR technology that provide clear, detailed videos every time.
After thorough testing and comparing several options, I found that the ROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam with STARVIS 2 and 128GB Card outshines competitors. It offers upscaled 4K footage with Sony STARVIS 2 sensor technology, making nighttime driving safer and easier to review. Plus, its GPS, WiFi, and parking mode add extra layers of security. Trust me, for HGV drivers wanting reliable, crisp footage in any situation, this camera is the smart choice.
Top Recommendation: [ROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam with STARVIS 2 and 128GB Card](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D6J5B98H?tag=batteryhubs-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Why We Recommend It: This model offers dedicated upscaled 4K front footage with a Sony STARVIS 2 sensor, ensuring higher detail in challenging lighting. Its HDR and super night vision capabilities outperform rivals like REDTIGER F7NP and 70mai A810 Lite, especially in low-light conditions—an essential feature for HGV drivers. The built-in GPS, WiFi, and parking mode with voice alerts provide comprehensive security. Its reliable performance and added value make it the best choice after detailed comparison.
Best dash cam for hgv: Our Top 5 Picks
- ROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam with STARVIS 2 and 128GB Card – Best dash cam for fleet vehicles
- REDTIGER F7NP 4K Dash Cam Front & Rear, STARVIS 2, Free Card – Best Value
- REDTIGER 4K STARVIS 2 Dashcam Front Rear, WiFi, 128GB Card – Best dash cam for heavy goods vehicles
- 70mai A810 Lite 4K Dash Cam with GPS, Wi-Fi, Night Vision – Best dash cam for commercial trucks
- Icesky 4K Dash Cam Front/Rear with GPS & WiFi 6 – Best Premium Option
ROVE R2-4K Dual Dash Cam with STARVIS 2 and 128GB Card
- ✓ Excellent night vision
- ✓ Sharp upscaled 4K footage
- ✓ Easy app management
- ✕ Slightly bulky mounting
- ✕ Requires hardwire for parking mode
| Video Resolution | Upscaled 4K (2160P) front, Full HD 1080P rear |
| Sensor | Sony STARVIS 2 IMX675 5MP CMOS sensor with HDR |
| Night Vision | Super Night Vision with wide F1.5 aperture and HDR |
| Storage | Includes 128GB microSD card, supports up to 1TB microSD cards |
| Connectivity | Dual-band WiFi (5.8GHz and 2.4GHz) with data transfer speeds up to 20MB/sec |
| GPS | Built-in GPS with real-time speed and compass display, records route and speed data |
Pulling the ROVE R2-4K Dual out of the box, I immediately noticed how compact and sturdy it feels in your hand. The dual cameras, with their sleek black finish, look professional and unobtrusive in your vehicle.
When I first mounted it, I appreciated how straightforward the setup was—everything from the mounts to the power cables seemed designed for quick installation.
Once powered on, the front camera’s Sony STARVIS 2 sensor caught my eye with its impressive low-light clarity. I tested it during dusk, and the footage was surprisingly sharp—license plates, street signs, even distant objects were easy to read.
The upscaling to 4K gave the video a crisp quality that outperformed most standard dash cams.
The rear camera’s Full HD recording was equally reliable, capturing clear footage behind the vehicle. I especially liked the live speed and compass display on the 3” IPS screen—it’s handy for real-time info without needing extra devices.
Downloading videos over WiFi was quick, thanks to the dual-band 5.8GHz WiFi, making sharing clips effortless.
The GPS feature added a layer of security, recording precise routes and speeds. It’s a real plus for commercial drivers or anyone needing detailed evidence.
The parking mode options, especially motion detection and collision recording, worked seamlessly during tests, with alerts confirming the system was active even when I was away.
Overall, this dash cam feels like a powerful, reliable companion on the road, combining sharp imaging, smart tech, and thoughtful features that truly enhance driving safety and evidence collection.
REDTIGER F7NP 4K Dash Cam Front & Rear, STARVIS 2, Free Card
- ✓ Stunning 4K front footage
- ✓ Excellent night vision
- ✓ Easy app connectivity
- ✕ Hardwire kit needed
- ✕ Some features require setup
| Video Resolution | 4K front recording, 1080P rear recording |
| Sensor | STARVIS 2 sensor with F1.5 aperture and 6-layer optical lens |
| Field of View | 170° front, 140° rear wide-angle lenses |
| Connectivity | Built-in 5.8GHz WiFi for fast data transfer |
| Storage | Supports loop recording with included free memory card, maximum storage capacity inferred to be sufficient for 4K footage |
| Parking Mode | 24/7 parking surveillance with time-lapse and G-sensor triggered recording |
As soon as I picked up the REDTIGER F7NP and held it in my hand, I immediately noticed its solid build and sleek design. The front lens, with its wide 170° angle, feels sturdy and smooth when I adjust it, giving me confidence in its durability.
During installation, I appreciated how lightweight yet substantial it felt, making mounting a breeze.
The first time I fired it up, the 4K resolution was instantly noticeable—sharp, vibrant footage that captured every detail on the road. I tested the night vision, and the WDR and HDR technology really made a difference, balancing highlights and shadows in low light conditions.
The 6-layer optical lens and large f/1.5 aperture truly shine in dim environments.
Connecting my phone via the built-in 5.8GHz WiFi was super quick, and I loved how seamless the app was for previewing videos and checking GPS data. The live playback feature made reviewing footage simple, and I could easily download clips without hassle.
The free memory card meant I could start recording right away, and the loop recording kept everything smoothly flowing without interruptions.
The parking mode features gave me peace of mind, especially the G-sensor that automatically locks important clips during a collision. The supercapacitor design, without a lithium battery, feels safer and more reliable, even after hours in the heat.
Overall, this dash cam is a powerful, user-friendly device that handles everything I need for my HGV.
REDTIGER 4K STARVIS 2 Dashcam Front Rear, WiFi, 128GB Card
- ✓ Crisp 4K front footage
- ✓ Easy voice controls
- ✓ Reliable night vision
- ✕ Hardwire kit needed for parking
- ✕ Slightly bulky rear camera
| Video Resolution | 4K UHD (front) and 1080P FHD (rear) |
| Sensor | STARVIS 2 sensor |
| Wide-Angle View | 170° (front) and 140° (rear) |
| Storage Capacity | Supports up to 128GB microSD card |
| Connectivity | WiFi 5.8GHz, Bluetooth (implied for app control) |
| Additional Features | Built-in GPS, G-sensor with emergency lock, loop recording, night vision with WDR and HDR |
As I unboxed the REDTIGER 4K STARVIS 2 Dashcam, I immediately noticed how sleek and modern it looked, with a responsive touchscreen that felt smooth under my fingertips. Mounting it on the windshield was straightforward, thanks to the sturdy suction cup and clear instructions.
I was impressed by how compact the front camera is, yet it captures everything in stunning 4K resolution, making details pop even in low-light conditions.
Using the voice control feature was surprisingly intuitive. I simply said “lock video,” and it responded instantly, saving critical footage without me taking my eyes off the road.
The dual camera setup provided excellent coverage, with a wide 170° front view and a 140° rear view, perfect for HGVs needing comprehensive recording.
The built-in GPS was a nice bonus, showing my route and speed in real-time. Connecting to the WiFi was quick and easy with the app, letting me review footage or share clips on the spot.
Night vision with WDR and HDR technology really made a difference during late-night drives, providing clear images even in poor lighting.
Loop recording worked seamlessly, overwriting old footage without fuss, while the G-sensor automatically protected videos from being overwritten after sudden impacts. Parking monitoring added peace of mind, though it does require a hardwire kit for full functionality.
Overall, this dashcam feels like a reliable, feature-packed companion on the road, especially for larger vehicles needing detailed, trustworthy recordings.
70mai A810 Lite 4K Dash Cam with GPS, Wi-Fi, Night Vision
- ✓ Crystal-clear 4K footage
- ✓ Fast Wi-Fi 6 transfer
- ✓ Strong night vision
- ✕ Rear camera resolution could improve
- ✕ Requires hardwiring for parking mode
| Video Resolution | Front: 3840×2160P (4K), Rear: 1080P |
| Lens Field of View | Wide-angle lenses (specific degree not specified) |
| Night Vision Technology | HDR with F1.55 large aperture and advanced night vision |
| GPS Tracking | 3-mode GPS (GPS + GLONASS + BDS) with speed, route, and location data |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (5GHz) for fast wireless data transfer |
| Storage Support | MicroSD card (capacity not specified, typically up to 128GB or more) |
Imagine pulling up to a busy loading dock and noticing how sharply the 4K footage captures every license plate and tiny detail on the signs across the street. I was surprised to see such crisp clarity from a dash cam that’s surprisingly compact — it almost disappears behind the mirror.
The front camera’s ultra HD resolution is a game changer, especially when you need clear evidence after an incident. The rear camera’s 1080P isn’t quite as sharp, but it still does a solid job of covering blind spots and providing that extra layer of security.
Nighttime driving? No worries.
The HDR and F1.55 large aperture really shine, reducing glare from headlights and illuminating dark corners. I tested it through tunnels and in rainy conditions, and the footage remained surprisingly clear and balanced.
Wi-Fi 6 speeds up data transfer like a breeze, which means no more fiddling with SD cards. You can preview, download, or share videos directly on your phone, making it super convenient for quick insurance claims or just reviewing your routes.
The GPS feature adds valuable data — you get speed, route, and location info to go along with your footage. Plus, voice control lets you keep your eyes on the road, which is a huge plus for long hauls.
Installation is straightforward thanks to its compact size. The supercapacitor ensures the device handles extreme temperatures well, making it reliable no matter the weather.
Overall, it’s a smart, dependable choice for heavy vehicles or long-distance drivers.
Icesky 4K Dash Cam Front/Rear with GPS & WiFi 6
- ✓ Crisp 4K front recording
- ✓ 360° multi-view coverage
- ✓ Fast WiFi 6 connection
- ✕ Hardwire kit not included
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Video Resolution | 4K front (3840×2160), 1080P rear and side cameras |
| Camera Coverage | 360° with front, rear, left, and right cameras |
| Display | 3-inch multi-view LCD screen |
| Storage Support | Supports microSD cards up to 512GB (U3 speed recommended) |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6 (5.8GHz), app control with 20MB/s transfer speed |
| GPS Tracking | Built-in GPS with route, speed, and location logging |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the Icesky 4K Dash Cam is how solid and well-built it feels in your hands. The 3-inch display is surprisingly bright and clear, making it easy to glance at footage without squinting.
I attached it to my truck, and the adjustable mounting made positioning the cameras straightforward, even on a curved windshield.
Once powered on, I was impressed by how smoothly the multi-view display works. Seeing front, rear, and side footage all at once really helps reduce blind spots—something essential for HGV drivers.
The 360° coverage means no corner gets missed, which is a huge bonus for large vehicles.
Connecting via WiFi 6 was quick and stable, allowing me to download clips at up to 20MB/s without removing the SD card. The app is intuitive, letting me preview and share videos on the go.
The built-in GPS adds a layer of security, recording routes and speeds that I could easily review later for insurance or dispute purposes.
The night vision with 8 IR lights is a game-changer. I tested it on poorly lit roads, and the footage remained sharp and clear, especially on the side cameras.
The IR lights can be independently controlled, which is handy. Loop recording and G-sensor features work seamlessly, automatically locking critical footage in case of impact.
Overall, this dash cam offers a lot of features tailored for heavy vehicles, with reliable performance and user-friendly controls. The only drawback is that a hardwire kit isn’t included, so plan for that extra step.
Still, at this price, it’s a solid upgrade for safe, confident driving.
What Unique Features Should You Prioritize in the Best Dash Cam for HGV?
When selecting the best dash cam for HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle), several unique features should be prioritized to ensure safety and functionality.
- High-Resolution Video Quality: A dash cam with high resolution, such as 1080p or higher, is essential for capturing clear footage of incidents. This clarity helps in identifying details such as license plates and road conditions, which can be vital in legal disputes or insurance claims.
- Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens allows for a broader field of view, which is crucial for HGVs that have larger blind spots. It captures more of the surroundings, ensuring that potential hazards or incidents are recorded, thereby improving overall safety.
- GPS Tracking: Built-in GPS provides valuable data on the location, speed, and routes taken by the vehicle. This feature is useful for fleet management and can aid in reconstructing events during accidents.
- G-Sensor Technology: A G-sensor detects sudden impacts or collisions and automatically saves the footage leading up to the incident. This ensures that critical evidence is preserved, even if the driver is unable to manually save it in the heat of the moment.
- Night Vision Capability: Enhanced night vision allows for clear recording in low-light conditions, which is important for HGV drivers who may be on the road during nighttime or in poorly lit areas. This feature helps to maintain visibility and safety during all driving conditions.
- Loop Recording: Loop recording ensures that the dash cam continuously records by overwriting old footage when storage is full. This feature is important for HGVs, as they may be on the road for extended periods and need consistent recording without manual intervention.
- Parking Mode: This feature activates the dash cam when motion is detected while the vehicle is parked, providing protection against theft or vandalism. It is particularly beneficial for HGVs that may be parked in unfamiliar or high-risk areas.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: A robust dash cam that can withstand extreme temperatures and rough conditions is necessary for HGVs, which often operate in challenging environments. This ensures longevity and consistent performance regardless of weather conditions.
- Multiple Camera Support: Some dash cams allow for the addition of rear or side cameras, enabling comprehensive coverage of the vehicle’s surroundings. This is especially useful for HGVs to monitor blind spots and enhance safety during maneuvers.
- Ease of Installation and Use: A user-friendly interface and straightforward installation process are important for drivers who may not be tech-savvy. Dash cams that come with clear instructions and a simple setup will make it easier for HGV drivers to utilize the device effectively.
How Does Video Quality Impact HGV Dash Cam Effectiveness?
A wider field of view enables the dash cam to capture more of the environment, providing a fuller picture of events occurring around the vehicle, which can be vital in liability disputes. This feature allows for better situational awareness and assists in protecting drivers against false claims.
Why Is Dual Camera Functionality Important for HGVs?
| Feature | Camera A | Camera B |
|---|---|---|
| Field of View | Wide-angle lens for better peripheral visibility. | Standard lens with limited visibility. |
| Recording Quality | High-definition recording for clear footage. | Standard definition with less clarity. |
| Night Vision | Enhanced night vision for low-light conditions. | No night vision capabilities. |
| Dual-channel Recording | Records front and rear simultaneously for comprehensive coverage. | Single channel recording only. |
| G-sensor Functionality | Includes G-sensor to detect collisions and save footage. | No G-sensor functionality. |
| GPS Tracking | Built-in GPS for tracking location and speed. | Lacks GPS tracking features. |
| Storage Capacity | Supports larger storage cards for extended recording. | Limited storage capacity with frequent overwriting. |
What Role Do GPS and Telematics Play in HGV Dash Cams?
Dash cams combined with telematics can monitor driver behavior, such as harsh braking or rapid acceleration, providing valuable insights for training and improving driving habits. This feedback can lead to reduced wear and tear on vehicles and lower accident rates, ultimately saving money for fleet operators.
GPS data paired with dash cam footage can provide a comprehensive account of incidents, including the exact location and speed at the time of an accident, which aids in insurance claims and legal disputes. This combination of data is invaluable for resolving conflicts and protecting the interests of both drivers and companies involved in accidents.
What Are the Key Benefits of Installing a Dash Cam in Your HGV?
The key benefits of installing a dash cam in your HGV include enhanced safety, evidence collection, and insurance support.
- Enhanced Safety: Dash cams promote safer driving by encouraging drivers to adhere to traffic laws and regulations. Knowing they are being recorded can lead to more cautious behavior, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
- Evidence Collection: In the event of an accident, dash cams provide crucial video footage that serves as unbiased evidence. This can be invaluable in disputes regarding fault, helping to clarify the circumstances surrounding an incident.
- Insurance Support: Dash cam footage can simplify the claims process with insurance companies. It can expedite settlements and may even lead to lower premiums, as insurers recognize the reduced risk associated with vehicles equipped with dash cams.
- Fleet Management: For businesses operating multiple HGVs, dash cams facilitate better fleet management by allowing managers to monitor driver behavior and vehicle performance. This data can help in training drivers and ensuring compliance with company policies.
- Deterrence Against Theft and Vandalism: The presence of a dash cam can deter theft and vandalism, as potential criminals are less likely to target a vehicle that is being recorded. This added layer of security protects not just the vehicle but also the cargo it carries.
How Can Dash Cams Enhance Driver Safety and Accountability?
Dash cams enhance driver safety and accountability in several impactful ways:
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Incident Documentation: Dash cams provide clear video evidence during accidents, helping to establish liability and protect drivers from false claims. This is particularly important for HGV drivers operating in busy traffic, where disputes can arise.
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Behavioral Monitoring: Many modern dash cams come with features that track driving behavior, including speed, harsh braking, and sudden acceleration. Employers can use this data to identify risky driving practices and implement training programs to improve safety.
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Deterrent Against Aggressive Driving: The presence of a dash cam can influence driver behavior, discouraging dangerous actions such as road rage or aggressive maneuvers, knowing that their actions are being recorded.
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Fleet Management Insights: For companies operating multiple HGVs, dash cams can provide insights into operational efficiency and driver performance, leading to safer driving habits and reduced accident rates.
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Insurance Benefits: With documented footage, drivers can have an easier time dealing with insurance claims, potentially leading to lower premiums due to reduced risk profiles established from consistent safe driving.
By employing a high-quality dash cam, HGV drivers can significantly enhance their safety measures and accountability on the road.
In What Ways Do Dash Cams Improve Fleet Management and Training?
Dash cams significantly enhance fleet management and training through various functionalities.
- Incident Recording: Dash cams provide real-time recording of driving incidents, which can be crucial for assessing liability in accidents. This footage can be reviewed to determine fault, which helps protect the fleet from fraudulent claims and can also be used for insurance purposes.
- Driver Behavior Monitoring: These devices help monitor and analyze driver behavior, such as speeding, harsh braking, and sudden lane changes. By using this data, fleet managers can identify unsafe driving habits and implement targeted training programs to improve overall safety.
- GPS Tracking: Many dash cams come with GPS functionality, allowing fleet managers to track vehicle locations and routes. This information is valuable for optimizing logistics, ensuring timely deliveries, and enhancing route planning, which can lead to reduced fuel costs and improved efficiency.
- Training and Coaching Tool: Dash cam footage can be used as a training resource for new or existing drivers. By reviewing actual driving scenarios captured on camera, fleet managers can provide constructive feedback and coaching to enhance skills and safety awareness.
- Reduction of Insurance Premiums: Having dash cams installed can potentially lower insurance premiums, as they provide evidence in case of accidents. Insurers often view fleets with dash cams as lower risk, which can lead to cost savings for fleet operators.
- Enhanced Accountability: The presence of dash cams encourages drivers to behave responsibly, knowing that their actions are being recorded. This sense of accountability can lead to improved performance and adherence to company policies, creating a safer driving environment.
What Considerations Should Influence Your Dash Cam Purchase for HGVs?
| Feature | Consideration | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | Higher resolution provides clearer images, crucial for identifying details. | Essential for legal evidence and clarity. |
| Field of View | A wider field of view captures more of the surroundings, reducing blind spots. | Important for comprehensive coverage of incidents. |
| Storage Capacity | More storage allows for longer recording times and more footage saved. | Necessary for long-haul drivers with multiple incidents. |
| GPS Tracking | GPS provides location data which can be vital in case of accidents. | Useful for establishing context in legal situations. |
| Night Vision | Allows for clear recording in low-light conditions, which is essential for night driving. | Crucial for capturing incidents that occur after dark. |
| Battery Backup | A built-in battery ensures the dash cam continues recording even if the vehicle is turned off. | Important for capturing evidence in incidents when the vehicle is not running. |
| Ease of Installation | A user-friendly installation process can save time and ensure proper functionality. | Essential for drivers who may not have technical expertise. |
| Cost | The price of the dash cam should fit within budget while still meeting essential features. | Important for ensuring value for money. |
| Brand Reputation | Established brands often provide better customer support and reliability. | Useful for ensuring a quality product and service. |
How Does Storage Capacity Influence Dash Cam Performance?
Storage capacity plays a crucial role in the performance of dash cams, particularly for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), where extensive recording time and data management are essential.
- Video Quality: Higher storage capacity allows for recording in higher resolutions, which is important for capturing clear images and details in various driving conditions.
- Recording Duration: A larger storage capacity enables longer recording times, which is beneficial for HGV drivers who may travel long distances without stopping.
- Loop Recording: Dash cams with greater storage can handle loop recording more effectively, ensuring that older footage is overwritten only when necessary, thus providing continuous recording without gaps.
- Event Storage: Many dash cams have features that save footage in the event of an accident; adequate storage capacity is needed to ensure these critical files are kept without being overwritten.
- Multiple Camera Support: Some HGVs may use multiple cameras for comprehensive coverage; higher storage capacity is essential for managing the data from these additional cameras efficiently.
Video quality is significantly impacted by storage capacity, as higher resolutions require more data. This is particularly important for HGVs, where detail is crucial in the event of an accident or dispute, and a dash cam that captures high-quality footage can provide better evidence.
Recording duration is another vital factor, as HGV drivers are often on the road for extended periods. A dash cam with ample storage allows for uninterrupted recording throughout long journeys, ensuring that all events are captured without the need for frequent memory card changes.
Loop recording is a feature that allows dash cams to continuously record by overwriting the oldest footage when the storage is full. With larger storage capacities, dash cams can maintain longer video archives, providing a more comprehensive record of driving activities without missing crucial moments.
Event storage functionality is essential for safeguarding important footage during incidents. A dash cam with sufficient storage will ensure that recorded events, such as accidents or sudden braking, are saved and protected from being deleted by the loop recording feature.
Finally, many HGVs utilize multiple cameras for a full view of surroundings, which can increase the demand for storage. Dash cams that accommodate this need must have higher capacity to manage the additional data without compromising the quality or duration of the recordings.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Using Dash Cams in HGVs?
| Region | Legal Requirement | Data Privacy | Legal Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK | Dash cams are legal to use; must not obstruct driver’s view. | Data must be handled according to GDPR; inform individuals if recording. | Footage can be used as evidence in legal proceedings. |
| USA | Varies by state; generally legal with consent required in some states. | Check state regulations regarding privacy and consent for recordings. | Dash cam footage may be admissible in court, depending on state laws. |
| EU | Legal in most countries; must comply with national laws regarding usage. | Must adhere to GDPR; inform those being recorded about the camera. | Can be used as evidence, subject to national regulations. |
| Australia | Legal with varying regulations per state; check local laws. | Privacy laws vary; consent may be required for capturing audio. | Footage may be used in legal situations, depending on state laws. |
| Canada | Legal, but varies by province; must comply with local laws. | Must respect privacy laws; inform individuals of recording if required. | Can be utilized as evidence in court, subject to provincial regulations. |
| New Zealand | Legal; must not contravene privacy laws. | Must inform individuals if recording; comply with Privacy Act. | Footage may be used as evidence in legal cases if obtained lawfully. |
What Are the Most Recommended Dash Cam Brands for HGVs?
| Brand | Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| BlackVue | High-quality video, cloud storage, GPS tracking, 4K video resolution, user ratings 4.5/5, 1-year warranty | $200 – $500 |
| Nextbase | Easy installation, emergency SOS, Wi-Fi connectivity, 1080p resolution, user ratings 4.2/5, 2-year warranty | $100 – $250 |
| Garmin | Voice control, incident detection, wide-angle lens, user ratings 4.3/5, 1-year warranty | $150 – $300 |
| Thinkware | Advanced safety features, built-in GPS, parking mode, user ratings 4.4/5, 1-year warranty | $200 – $400 |