The best car DVRs: updated rating

Despite the popularity of car recorders, there are still opponents of these gadgets. Some believe that this is an unnecessary waste of money, while others believe that a video surveillance system is a vital necessity. The truth, as always, is in the middle. Like any device, video recorders have positive and negative aspects.

The advantages of video recorders include:

1. A reliable witness in road accidents and controversial situations on the roads.
2. Ensures vehicle safety when the owner is not around.
3. A convenient assistant on the road and when parking.
4. Can act as an action camera when traveling and on vacation.

However, such devices also have a number of disadvantages and features of use:

1. Drains the battery.
2. He himself is an object of interest for car thieves.

The debate about the design of good car DVRs continues, which is better – with or without a display, with one or two cameras, in the form of a mirror or a classic prism.

On the other hand, the presence of a display is a great help when you don’t have a smartphone at hand. Let’s say there was a collision due to the fault of another driver, the camera recorded it, you just need to show the recording, but the phone was left at home, ran out of battery, broke, etc. The ability to play video on the screen can reduce the time spent on investigations and make life easier for the car owner.

To choose the best car DVR , you need to determine the requirements for the device. What is it for, what tasks will it solve (only recording, notifications about control cameras or police stations, route building and determining coordinates, etc.), operating conditions.

In addition, there are a number of general criteria that will help you choose a reliable and functional device.

• Build quality and appearance . The exterior of the device is the first thing that catches the eye. The plastic of the case should be dense, without a strong smell, the parts fit tightly, play, gaps, poorly processed edges with burrs are unacceptable. In the car, the recorder is constantly subjected to shaking and vibration, so the build quality is of great importance, it would be a shame if the new device fell apart.
• Mounting . Most recorders are designed to be placed on the windshield (except for mirror-type devices, which are fixed to standard mounts). Either 3M tape or a vacuum suction cup is used as a fastener. The recorder itself is connected to the bracket using a latch or a magnet. The second option is preferable.
• Camera . Nowadays, it is rare to find a recorder based on a 1 MP matrix; most budget models have a resolution of 2 MP and video in 1920×1080 format. Mid-range models boast five-megapixel optics, which allow recording in SuperHD format and scaling frames with a high degree of detail. Light sensitivity is of great importance; the smaller the lens aperture, the more light it can capture; the recommended value is f/1.8.
• Battery . This is not a mandatory part, but it is desirable, as the battery allows for autonomous shooting. Usually it is 3-10 minutes, but in emergency situations this is enough.
• Control . Can be mechanical, touch or combined. Many devices are synchronized with smartphones, which allows for more subtle adjustments.
• Additional features: GPS, radar detector, speedcam . Their presence turns a regular recorder into a multifunctional model. True, the cost increases accordingly.
• Wireless interfaces . In addition to the now familiar Wi-Fi, video recorders can be equipped with Bluetooth and mobile communications. Wi-Fi is responsible for sending the recorded data to storage or to the phone, and Bluetooth and 4G are for communication with other devices.

The above list is far from complete, but the points mentioned are of crucial importance. The issue with brands remains open, but in recent years there has been a tendency towards “sinicization” of production, which has forced users to turn their attention to little-known brands. In addition, many companies in the Celestial Empire have already managed to prove that they can compete with European, American, South Korean and Japanese concerns. The most striking example is Xiaomi, which has become a world leader in a matter of years. So here the decision is up to the user – to pay extra for the name or take a simpler model. Especially since now the question “how much does it cost” is no longer relevant. There are many worthy budget models on the market.

The list includes models costing up to 4,000 rubles. These are mainly devices with basic characteristics, but there are also devices with advanced capabilities. They are suitable for those who want to buy a good and inexpensive video recorder, and at the same time not overpay for unused functions.

The entry-level Digma FreeDrive 107 DVR with a GC1024 matrix with a resolution of 1 MP and a 140° field of view. However, the camera produces a picture in Full HD format at 30 frames per second. The 1.5″ LCD display has recording indicators and is switched on manually. It also has a built-in 110 mAh battery and a slot for memory cards up to 32 GB. The device is attached to the windshield using a suction cup, which is why it is an ideal option for a beginner – easy to install and remove.

The main advantages include:

• low cost;
• good quality of shooting during the day;
• wide angle lens.

Navitel R200 NV is a compact model with a platform mount. The optics are equipped with a GC2053 sensor, which provides decent shooting even at night. This is indicated by the abbreviation NV in the name – Night Vision. The resolution and recording frequency are standard: 1920 × 1080 pixels, 30 frames per second. The wide coverage of the review pleases – 140 °. Cyclic recording to a memory card up to 64 GB is available. A miniature 2″ screen allows you to track events online. A lithium-polymer battery with a capacity of 180 mAh is responsible for autonomous operation.

The advantages include:

• nice design;
• secure fastening;
• high quality recording.

The disadvantages of the device are:

• flimsy power cable.

Artway AV-397 GPS Compact is a square-shaped recorder with an additional GPS module for tracking the route, as well as recording the coordinates of the car and its speed on video. The two-megapixel camera shoots with a resolution of 1080p, an additional advantage is the presence of the WDR image enhancement function. The sensor has a wide viewing angle of 170 °, which ensures monitoring of not only the front, but also the side zones. The 200 mAh battery allows you to work in parking mode and provides several minutes of recording.

The advantages of the model include:

• compact;
• the picture and sound are clear;
• easy setup.

Another device based on the GC2053 matrix with the ability to shoot at night is Roadgid Mini 2 Wi-Fi . The resolution is 1920×1080, the viewing angle is 170°. The advantage of the model is the built-in Wi-Fi module, which provides a stable connection with a mobile device and sending the recording to the cloud storage. You can configure the device using the buttons on the body or through the application. The footage is compressed by the H.265 codec without losing quality. The bracket with 3M tape, the recorder itself is easily removed from the mount with one hand.

The advantages of the model include:

• excellent video shooting;
• wide viewing angle;
• long cord (3 m);
• Wi-Fi availability.

This category of devices is very popular for its extended functionality. The devices perform the functions of a recorder, radar detector and GPS navigator. They are more expensive, but they also have more capabilities. The TOP includes the best video recorders with radar in 2022.

Combo Parkprofi EVO 9001 Signature is a good video recorder with a radar detector, which continuously records what is happening, tracks the route and detects signals from traffic control devices on the road. The low cost determines the minimum capabilities of the device. One megapixel camera, 1080p shooting resolution and 100 mAh battery (1 minute of recording). At the same time, there is a good 170° view, an updated H.265 compression codec, the ability to power from the on-board network and a capacitor and a speedcam option (the latter provides a higher level of vehicle safety while driving).

The advantages of the model include:

• affordable price;
• compact dimensions;
• convenient menu;
• easy software installation and setup;
• clear operation of the radar detector.

The disadvantages of the device include:

• deterioration of shooting at night;
• The kit does not include a micro-USB cable.

The TOP of the best video recorders continues with the smallest combined recorder in the world — Artway MD-107 . The miniature device does not obstruct the view and at the same time has decent technical characteristics. The two-megapixel camera shoots with a resolution of 2304 × 1296, which ensures excellent recording quality. Special image processing algorithms Super Night Vision allow you to preserve detail even when shooting at night. There is a micro-USB connector for connecting to a computer. The OCL mode allows you to select the distance at which the radar detector will be triggered — from 400 to 1500 m. An additional advantage is the setting of “silence points” to protect against false alarms.

The main advantages of this video recorder:

• effective in the city and on the highway;
• clear voice notification;
• good daytime shooting;
• fine tuning.

One of the best DVRs with a radar detector in 2022, and even with an additional camera – Carcam Hybrid 2s Signature . The main camera has six lenses with a 2 MP sensor, a maximum recording resolution of 2560 × 1440 and a viewing angle of 170 °. The second camera shoots in 1080p format, coverage is 110 °. A large 3″ screen allows you to easily monitor what is happening. The radar detector detects all the most common systems – Binar, Arena, Krechet, Strelka, Kordon, LISD, etc. The user has 4 operating modes – city, highway, smart, signature. An additional advantage is the built-in Wi-Fi module.

Pros of Carcam Hybrid 2s Signature:

• high quality recording day and night;
• sensitive radar;
• magnetic mount;
• convenient setup via the app.

It is important to understand that a video recorder with a good camera will cost accordingly. High-quality optics work in tandem with a powerful processor, which is responsible for processing and improving incoming frames. However, some manufacturers save on other components to compensate for the difference in cost.

It is difficult to imagine a list of the best DVRs of 2022 without Xiaomi. The 70mai Mini Dash Cam Midrive D05 DVR has a really great camera. The 5 MP matrix allows you to record video in 2560 × 1600 format at 30 frames per second. The wide-angle lens provides 140 ° coverage. An additional advantage is the original anti-fog algorithm, which has a beneficial effect on visibility in precipitation or fog. A powerful 500 mAh battery allows you to record short videos during the day or continuously record for 50 minutes. The video is compressed using the H.264 protocol and sent via Wi-Fi to your phone or cloud. Memory cards up to 64 GB are supported. But with all this, the device does not have a display.

Advantages of the model:

• detailed video;
• availability of Wi-Fi;
• long battery life.

Mio MiVue 786 is an inexpensive but good car DVR with good characteristics and fully touch control via a 2.7″ display. There is one camera with high-aperture optics and an aperture of f/1.8. The viewing angle is 130°. It is possible to connect an external camera (purchased separately). Video is shot in 1080p format and can be sent via Wi-Fi to a phone or cloud service. The DVR warns the owner about approaching surveillance cameras and allows you to set the notification distance. A 240 mAh battery provides autonomous operation for 15 minutes. It has a slot for memory cards up to 128 GB.

The advantages of the model include:

• high quality assembly;
• good shooting day and night;
• Wi-Fi.

The downside is that the menu is quite complicated.

This year’s new product is a video recorder with a good camera based on the OmniVision OV4689 light-sensitive matrix . Video is recorded in 2304×1296 format with a bitrate of up to 36 Mbit/s. The Ambarella A12A35 ​​792 MHz chipset is responsible for image processing. The optics match the 3.5″ touch screen. In addition, the model is equipped with a radar detector, a GPS module and a capacious 520 mAh battery, allowing it to work autonomously for 20 minutes.

The main advantages include:

• • great shooting;
  • reliable radar with a minimum of false alarms;
  • precise navigator;
  • long battery life.

The disadvantages of the device include:

• large body;
• afraid of frost, lower threshold up to -10°С.

The Sony IMX 335 5MP matrix gives the Roadgid Premier the right to claim a worthy place in the ranking of the best video recorders with a good camera. Video in 2304×1296 format and a viewing angle of 170° speak for themselves. The advantage is a large 3″ screen and a battery with a heat-resistant capacitor. The model is equipped with a radar detector, a GPS module and a brand new processor from Novatek with the H.265 codec. The company’s flagship received a rich package, which includes a spatula, replaceable clips, a CPL filter from glare and a napkin.

The advantages of the Roadgid Premier model include:

• high recording quality;
• camera detection;
• anti-radar;
• anti-glare filter;
• large display.

The only downside of the model is the price.

Viofo A129 Pro Ultra 4K is the best dual-camera DVR in the mid-price category. The main Sony Exmor R IMX317 matrix shoots video with a resolution of 3840×2160, viewing angle – 130°. The external camera is more modest – 1080p, 110°. The integrated Wi-Fi module is responsible for synchronization with mobile devices and the proprietary application. Recordings can be stored on a memory card up to 256 GB. There is support for the GPS unit (purchased separately). Power is supplied via a capacitor or from the on-board network, a battery is not provided.

Advantages of the Parkmaster 8-FJ-27 model :

• 2 cameras;
• high resolution 4K;
• There is Wi-Fi.

Some car owners prefer to use video recorders in the form of a rear-view mirror. Such models have a number of advantages – hidden placement, a large display, the ability to combine images from the front and rear cameras on one screen.

Carcam Z6 is a budget device with two cameras and a powerful battery that has rightfully earned a place in the TOP of the best DVRs of 2022. The body is elongated, the screen itself with a diagonal of 4.3 “is integrated into the left side. Both cameras, front and remote, shoot with a resolution of 1920 × 1080, the viewing angle is 140 °. The functionality is standard – a shock sensor, a motion sensor in the frame, display of date and time in the recording. The 300 mAh battery is enough for 10 minutes of independent work, which is quite good compared to competitors. Video recording is cyclical, with the ability to save to a memory card up to 128 GB.

The advantages of the model include:

• affordable cost;
• good video quality;
• wide range of operating temperatures: from -40 to +60°С.

The disadvantages of the DVR include a darkened mirror

We can safely say that this is the best video recorder with a rear camera – Roadgid Blick WiFi . Laconic form, decent optics and two-channel video recording have appealed to many. It is worth mentioning separately the quality of night shooting, the use of innovative Sony Starvis technology allows you to achieve excellent detail. In addition to the 2 MP front camera, an external one is included in the kit. The built-in battery provides up to 3 minutes of autonomous operation. The device is mounted on a standard mirror, the screen diagonal is 9.66 “, viewing angle – 170 °. The Wi-Fi module provides uninterrupted video transmission in 1080p format to the cloud or mobile device.

The main advantages of Roadgid Blick WiFi include:

• not very large dimensions;
• touch control;
• clear recording even at night;
• The markings allow you to park correctly.

This model has no drawbacks and is distinguished by an optimal price-quality ratio.

The multifunctional device Blackview X8 is the answer to the question of how to choose a good DVR. The kit includes the DVR itself and a remote front camera, if necessary, you can buy another one. Video is recorded in 1080p format, compression codec H.264. A powerful quad-core processor is responsible for image processing. Automatic switching on and off is provided. In addition to built-in Wi-Fi, there is Bluetooth with speakerphone and a 4G module (with a slot for microSIM). Power is supplied from the vehicle’s on-board network.

Advantages of Blackview X8:

• possibility of connecting a third camera;
• high quality shooting;
• availability of mobile communications;
• Bluetooth.

The proposed rating does not claim to be the ultimate truth. Its purpose is to introduce users to the most popular models of 2022 among budget devices, combo devices, representatives of the middle price segment and mirror devices. From the TOP it is obvious that even inexpensive devices successfully cope with their tasks. We hope that it will help to solve the question of which DVR is better to buy for a car.