Dash cameras are windscreen-mounted video recorders that film the road ahead, and sometimes the cabin or rear window, to provide evidence after a collision or dispute. They suit everyday commuters, long-distance drivers, fleet owners and anyone who wants proof of what happened on the road. No models are listed in this category at the moment, so this guide explains what to compare.
How to choose a dash camera
Video resolution. Full HD (1080p) is the practical minimum, but 2K or 4K footage makes number plates and road signs easier to read, especially at speed. Check the sensor and lens quality as well, because resolution alone does not guarantee a readable plate at night.
Number of channels. A front-only camera covers the road ahead. A dual-channel set adds a rear camera for rear-end collisions, and some systems include an interior lens, which is useful for taxi and ride-hailing drivers.
Parking mode and power. Parking mode records impacts or movement while the car is switched off, but it needs a constant power source, usually a hardwire kit with a low-voltage cut-off to protect the car battery. Without one, the camera only records while driving.
Storage and loop recording. Dash cameras record to a microSD card and overwrite the oldest clips when it fills. Choose a high-endurance card, since ordinary cards wear out under constant rewriting. Make sure the camera supports the card capacity you want, and that the G-sensor locks clips from an impact so they are not overwritten.
Heat tolerance and night footage. A car parked in the sun gets very hot, so cameras with a supercapacitor generally cope with heat better than those with a small lithium battery. For night driving, look for WDR or HDR support and a wide aperture lens.
Brands and what to compare
There are no dash camera brands to profile yet, since no models are listed in this category. When products are added, these are the points worth comparing between makers:
- Warranty and local support: check that the manufacturer offers a warranty that is honoured in South Africa and that spares such as mounts and cables are available.
- Software and apps: Wi-Fi models let you view and download clips on your phone, so a well-maintained app with firmware updates makes daily use easier.
- Optional extras: GPS logging, rear cameras and hardwire kits are often sold separately, so confirm what is included in the box.
Dash camera FAQ
What resolution should a dash camera have?
Full HD is enough for general evidence, but 2K or 4K is better for reading number plates at a distance. Lens quality and night performance matter as much as the headline resolution. A good 1080p camera can outperform a poor 4K one in low light.
What size memory card does a dash camera need?
A 64 GB or 128 GB high-endurance microSD card suits most single-channel cameras, while dual-channel or 4K models fill a card faster and benefit from more space. Always check the maximum card size the camera supports. Replace the card periodically, because constant rewriting wears it out.
Does a dash camera record when the car is parked?
Only if it has a parking mode and a permanent power supply. Most cameras plugged into a cigarette lighter socket stop recording when the ignition goes off. A hardwire kit with a battery cut-off lets the camera record while parked without draining the car battery.
Do I need a front and rear dash camera?
A front camera covers most incidents, but a rear camera adds evidence for rear-end collisions and tailgating. If you drive long distances or in heavy traffic, a dual set is worth considering. For short, occasional trips, a front-only camera is usually enough.
