One safety accessory every truck driver needs is a high-quality dash cam system. Dash cams provide added protection and peace of mind when driving as they record what is in front of you. In the event of an accident, you can use the camera footage to show the insurance company the other driver was at fault. This type of system can also make it easier to see what is around your truck when backing up or changing lanes.
Finding the best high-quality dash cam for your truck does require doing a little bit of research to learn more about the various features and options found on various models. We invite you to review our Dash Cam Buying Guide, which contains useful information to help you select the best dash cam for your truck.
Questions to Consider When Selecting a Dash Cam
- How wide is the view field? The wider the view field, the more the camera can see. You want a dash cam that can capture a wide view for the best coverage.
- How fast is the dash cam’s frame rate? Frame rates are important, as they determine how well the camera records as you are moving. Just like the view field, higher frame rates are better if you want to avoid blurry playback.
- What is the operating temperature range? You want to make sure the dash cam can handle the cold or heat for those times you shut off your truck or are in parking mode.
- How is the dash cam mounted? This one might not seem that big of a concern, but you should still explore how the camera is mounted. For example, you are leasing your truck. You may not want to use a permanent installation method.
- Is the screen built-in or does it require a separate display? Some screens will be built-in to the dash cam to create an “all-in-one” device while others can require connecting to a separate display.
- What is the recording capacity of the dash cam and can it be expanded? If you want to make sure the camera has plenty of recording capacity, you want a model that allows you to add a microSD card to expand its internal storage.
- Can the dash cam be integrated with other cameras on your truck? Some driver assistance systems might allow you to connect blind spot cameras and backup cameras to the system so you can use the same monitor or display to see the front and rear of the truck.
What Dash Cam Features to Compare?
Here are some important dash cam features to compare when selecting one for your semi-truck:
- Battery Life: Check the dash cam’s battery life to ensure it can record for extended periods without a constant power supply.
- Video Resolution/Image Quality: Look for a dash cam with high-resolution or full HD video recording capabilities and good low-light performance to capture clear real-time
- Cost: Compare the prices of different dash cam models and consider their features to find the best value for money.
- Views Available: Some dash cams offer multiple views, including an in-cabin shot and a view of the road ahead. Consider if these views are beneficial for your specific needs.
- Ease of Installation: Evaluate the installation process of the dash cam and ensure it is straightforward. Some only require a suction cup to install. Otherwise, consider professional installation options if needed.
- Audio Recording Capability: Determine if audio recording is important for your needs. Some dash cams offer built-in microphones to record audio along with video.
- Smart Features/Phone Connectivity: Check if the dash cam has smart features such as built-in GPS, Wi-Fi, cloud storage, or smartphone connectivity. These features can provide additional functionality and ease of use.
- Night Vision: Consider if the dash cam has night vision capabilities to capture clear footage in low-light conditions, which is crucial for night driving.
- Loop Recording: Consider if the dash cam has loop recording functionality, where new recordings automatically overwrite old footage.
- Impact/Sudden Event Detection: Some dash cams have built-in sensors that automatically detect sudden movements or impacts, triggering the camera to save that footage separately. This feature can be valuable in the event of an accident.
- GPS Logging: Check if the dash cam has built-in GPS logging functionality to record your location, speed, and video footage. This can be useful for keeping track of routes, speed limits, and other important data.
- Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews: Consider the reputation of the dash cam brand and read customer reviews to gauge the reliability and overall user experience.
How to Select the Right SD Card for Your Dash Cam
Selecting the right SD memory card for your dash cam is crucial to ensure reliable and continuous recording. Here are some steps to help you choose the right one:
- Determine the Requirements: First, check the dash cam’s specifications or user manual to identify the recommended or required SD card Look for information regarding capacity, speed class, and format compatibility.
- Capacity: Consider the amount of storage space you require based on how frequently and for how long you intend to record. Dash cams typically support a range of capacities, such as 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, or even higher. Keep in mind that higher capacities allow for longer recording times.
- Speed Class: Dash cams require SD cards with fast write speeds to ensure smooth and uninterrupted recording. The speed class is denoted by a number or letter inside a circle on the SD card (e.g., Class 10 or UHS-3). Look for a card that meets or exceeds your dash cam’s minimum recommended speed class.
- Endurance: Consider using SD cards specifically designed for dash cam recordings or surveillance applications. These cards are built to withstand constant read/write cycles and are more reliable in the long run compared to regular SD cards.
It is important to mention that not all dash cams require an SD card. Some models have built-in memory. If the dash cam you are considering has built-in memory, ensure it has sufficient storage space to meet your needs.
Find the Perfect Dash Cam Today
Hopefully, these questions and tips help you start thinking about the type of dash camera you want for your truck. When you are ready to start shopping, please feel free to explore our online store or call Suburban Seating & Safety at 844-727-7328. We carry a wide range of semi truck seats and safety accessories, including products from Brigade Electronics.
