With more drivers relying on dash-cams to provide vital information in the event of an incident, we’ve tested some of the best models on the market to help you decide which one is best for you. These aren't your budget options, and if you ride a motorcycle, you'll need a specialist cam - but if you're on the hunt for something robust and of the highest quality, this is the guide for you.
We tested each dash-cam on at least two commuter journeys to and from the WTB office, at daytime and night-time. Our reviews rate the dash-cams based on quality of materials and build, and the resulting footage - how easy it is to use, and how visible are number plates on the recording.
The Best Dash-Cams
1 of 5Nextbase G22GW bundle
Simply the best option on the market today, the Nextbase G22W excels in terms of both technology and build quality. Able to record in either full 4K or HD, the camera quality is outstanding. It is designed to enhance numberplates, a very welcome addition in the event of an accident. Not the smallest of dash cams, it is however one of the easiest to mount thanks to the option of a suction cup or proper mount. Magnetic attachment to the mount means there are no dangling wires to obstruct your view.
£389.00
2 of 5Thinkware F770 Dash Cam
The F770 is a bulky thing to look at, but once it's affixed in position (out of your field of vision as per legal requirements), it's easy to forget it's even there. The lack of screen means you can't see what you're filming, but a Thinkware Mobile Viewer app for your smartphone will allow you to view recorded footage that's stored on your dash-cam.The wide, HD lens means image quality is good. You can make out number plates on cars if you're not driving too quickly, although some colours appear slightly dull. It's worth noting that footage is crisper and clearer to view via the mobile app than on a computer (and also much easier).
3 of 5Cobra Drive HD CDR 835 Dash-Cam
Cobra's Drive HD dash-cam – full name CDR835 – is a high-definition dash-cam that records in 1080p quality for any incidents you may come across while on the road.The camera quality is very good. Viewing recordings on the 2.0-inch screen reveals a high-quality picture from the 160-degree wide angle lens. With the regular 8GB memory card, a total of 1.7 hours of footage at 1080p quality can be saved.
4 of 5Snooper DVR-4HD Dash-Cam
This Snooper dash-cam not only films the road ahead – in full HD quality – but it also logs any bumps thanks to its G-force sensor, protecting this footage from being overwritten. An added bonus is that it can alert you to any fixed speed cameras ahead, too.Simply plug the DVR-4HD in, stick the mount to the windscreen, feed the power cable around the windscreen and you're good to go.The camera quality is mediocre. It doesn't matter whether it's light, dark, dry or raining, video quality isn't as sharp as you would hope. Even in broad daylight number plates aren't always legible – meaning that if you need to use footage to identify a passing car and prove you're not to blame for a crash, it may not be up to scratch.
5 of 5Apeman Mini Dash Cam
If the price is your main concern but you're still wanting some top-quality equipment then this Apeman is your best bet. Still offering full HD recording (not 4K however) and a 170-degree wide-angle lens it'll certainly come in handy should you need it. It also comes with the functions of more premium offerings, including night vision, motion detection and that all-importtant g-sensor.