Driving at night can be risky. Poor visibility makes accidents more likely. A good dash cam with night vision can be a lifesaver. It records everything, even in low light. These are my top picks for dash cams that see in the dark.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Vantrue N4: Best overall, front, inside, and rear recording.
- Garmin Dash Cam 57: Compact, reliable, and easy to use.
- Thinkware F200 Pro: Great value, solid performance, and cloud features.
- Nextbase 622GW: High-end, 4K recording, what3words integration.
- Rove R2-4K: Budget-friendly, 4K recording, simple setup.
Top 5 Best Dash Cam With Night Vision
1. Vantrue N4
The Vantrue N4 is a powerhouse. It records front, interior, and rear views simultaneously. Its night vision is impressive, even in near-total darkness.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent night vision on all three cameras.
- ✅ Records front, interior, and rear simultaneously.
- ✅ 24-hour parking mode monitors your car while parked.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be pricey compared to other dash cams.
- ❌ Large size may obstruct some views.
- ❌ Requires a high-endurance microSD card.
Verdict: If you want comprehensive coverage and top-notch night vision, the Vantrue N4 is a great choice. It’s ideal for rideshare drivers or anyone wanting complete peace of mind.
2. Garmin Dash Cam 57
The Garmin Dash Cam 57 is small but mighty. It’s known for its reliability and ease of use. Its night vision performs well, capturing clear footage in dark conditions.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact and discreet design.
- ✅ Easy to install and use.
- ✅ Clear night vision recording.
Cons:
- ❌ No rear camera included.
- ❌ Screen is small.
- ❌ Fewer features than some competitors.
Verdict: The Garmin Dash Cam 57 is a solid choice for those who want a simple, reliable dash cam with good night vision. It’s perfect for everyday drivers who don’t need all the bells and whistles.
3. Thinkware F200 Pro
The Thinkware F200 Pro offers great value. It balances performance and features at an affordable price. Its Super Night Vision technology enhances low-light recording, producing clear, usable footage.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent value for the price.
- ✅ Super Night Vision technology.
- ✅ Optional rear camera available.
Cons:
- ❌ Design is a bit dated.
- ❌ Cloud features require a subscription.
- ❌ Parking mode requires hardwiring.
Verdict: The Thinkware F200 Pro is a great option for budget-conscious buyers who still want good night vision and reliable performance. Its cloud features are a bonus for added security.
4. Nextbase 622GW
The Nextbase 622GW is a high-end dash cam with impressive features. It records in 4K and has enhanced night vision capabilities. It also integrates with what3words, allowing emergency services to pinpoint your location accurately.
Pros:
- ✅ 4K recording for incredibly sharp video.
- ✅ Enhanced night vision.
- ✅ what3words integration for precise location.
Cons:
- ❌ Expensive compared to other dash cams.
- ❌ Large size may be obtrusive.
- ❌ Battery life could be better.
Verdict: The Nextbase 622GW is for those who want the best possible video quality and advanced features. The what3words integration is a unique and potentially life-saving feature.
5. Rove R2-4K
The Rove R2-4K is a budget-friendly dash cam that records in 4K. Its night vision is surprisingly good for the price. It’s easy to set up and use, making it a great option for beginners.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable 4K dash cam.
- ✅ Decent night vision for the price.
- ✅ Easy to set up and use.
Cons:
- ❌ Build quality feels a bit cheap.
- ❌ Night vision not as good as higher-end models.
- ❌ Limited features.
Verdict: The Rove R2-4K is a solid choice if you’re on a tight budget but still want 4K recording and acceptable night vision. It’s a great entry-level dash cam.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right dash cam can be tough. Here are some things to consider:
- Resolution: Higher resolution (like 4K) captures more detail. This is helpful for reading license plates.
- Night Vision: Look for dash cams with “night vision” or “low-light” capabilities. Check reviews to see how well they perform.
- Field of View: A wider field of view captures more of the road. 130-170 degrees is a good range.
- Features: Consider features like parking mode, GPS, and Wi-Fi. Decide which ones are important to you.
- Storage: Dash cams record continuously, so you’ll need a microSD card. Check the maximum storage capacity supported by the dash cam.
- Power Source: Most dash cams plug into your car’s cigarette lighter. Some can be hardwired for parking mode.
- Price: Dash cams range in price from under $50 to over $300. Set a budget and stick to it.
I had a fender-bender last year. Wish I had a dash cam then! Now I wouldn’t drive without one.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about dash cams with night vision:
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Q: What is night vision in a dash cam?
A: Night vision uses technology to record clear video in low-light conditions. This can involve infrared sensors or software enhancements.
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Q: Do dash cams record audio?
A: Yes, most dash cams record audio. You can usually turn this feature on or off in the settings.
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Q: How much storage do I need for a dash cam?
A: It depends on the resolution and recording time. A 64GB card is usually sufficient for several hours of footage.
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Q: Can dash cams be used as evidence?
A: Yes, dash cam footage can be used as evidence in accidents or other incidents. Check your local laws regarding audio recording.
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Q: How do I install a dash cam?
A: Most dash cams are easy to install. They typically mount to your windshield with a suction cup or adhesive mount and plug into your car’s cigarette lighter.
Conclusion
A dash cam with good night vision can provide valuable peace of mind when driving at night. Consider your budget, desired features, and recording needs when choosing a dash cam. The Vantrue N4 is a great all-around option, while the Rove R2-4K is a solid budget choice. No matter what you pick, drive safely.
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