The Complete Guide to Dash Cameras and Their Benefits

So you’ve heard about the benefits of dash cams and want one for your car. These practical devices can help you with insurance claims, record reckless driving, prevent damage to your vehicle, and provide valuable data during road trips. But with so many brands and models currently sold, which dash camera is worth your hard-earned cash? Let’s delve deep into what makes a dash camera a worthy buy, and the features to look for.

But First, What Exactly is a Dash Cam?

The hint is in the name. This is a small camera mounted in the car interior on the front windshield. It records in detail everything that is going on while driving. Most also have the option of recording when the vehicle is parked. The recorded material is first-hand evidence in the event of an accident, in insurance claims, and explaining to the police just what exactly happened.

But there’s more to dash cameras than this. The device can capture instances of vandalism and intentional damage to your car, help with cases of insurance fraud, and even lower premiums. Additionally, with a Malaysia dash camera, you’ll know what is happening when lending the car to family or friends. And for business use, the device can track irregular driving habits in fleet vehicles and some interesting footage if you’re a taxi or Grab driver.

How They Work

Dash cameras can be powered either from the car battery or have their own integrated power source. The first type falls into two categories, those that are hotwired directly to the battery, and those that use an accessory socket or USB port. While cams with built-in batteries are in the minority, they do have the advantage when recording footage with the engine off. Choose this type if you also want footage while the vehicle is parked.

Virtually all dash cameras have an auto-on function, meaning they start recording once the vehicle is moving. The footage is stored on a micro SD card, or in internal storage. Obviously, more storage available means longer recording times. SD cards are relatively cheap, and total memory is increasing. For instance, a 128GB card should last a full day’s driving.

Most dash cameras though record in a loop cycle, so ones that have filled storage capacity record new footage over the old one. However, instances of sudden braking, impact, damage, and more serious incidents are automatically saved, and you can access the footage when needed.

Choosing the Right Dash Camera

Dash cams can be grouped into three major types -those that do front-facing recording, those that record to both the front and rear of the car, and those that also record inside the cabin. The design of each type is different. They differ in their lens setup, number of features, and price. And they are intended for different buyers.

Single-lens front dash cams are the least expensive and will be fine for most needs. More features are found in dual-facing, front and rear cams, so these will be a bit dearer but can help resolve issues such as rear-ending. If you’re a Grab driver or fleet owner, then footage from the cabin, as well as the front and rear makes more sense.

Features to Look for

Dash cams have been around for quite a while (the mid-1990s), but have improved in every aspect since then. If you’re on the lookout for a Malaysia dash camera, then a few key features help you make the most out of your purchase:

• Image Quality – You want images and videos in the highest clarity for the money. Even basic cams record in HD, while most have a native resolution of crystal clear 4K footage. This is paired with a quality lens setup, often with a wider field of view that also covers the sides of the car. Ensure that the camera you’re getting also has a recent sensor. Bigger sensors let in more light, so will capture clearer video at night.
• Auto start and Loop recording – This is a feature that distinguishes a dash camera from phones and Go-Pros. The camera will automatically record when it senses the car is moving. There is no need for adjustments and no potential risks. It can also be set up to continue recording when at a standstill, for example at traffic lights or when the vehicle is parked for longer periods. Loop recording continues where the Auto-start feature ends. It overwrites older footage while letting you save footage that is important. Some units also do time-lapse recording, essentially compressing video. The aim is not to run out of memory. To avoid any issues, ensure that the card you’re getting is compatible and works with your car dash cam.
• Driver Assistance – the integrated tech in many dash cameras also provides for a safer journey. These supplement systems that you may or may not have on your car. Nice additions are lane departure and forward collision warning systems with appropriate alerts. Rear-facing cams may also detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in blind spots.
• Built-in GPS – This monitors and displays real-time info, such as current and average speed, and current location with coordinates. The feature is handy in case of an accident and when supervising driver habits in fleet cars. GPS additionally allows for route info, with the distance travelled, the route taken, and speed and time data.
• App and WiFi – Apps allow for easier control and adjusting camera settings on your phone. This is done with the camera’s wifi. You can adjust the recording time, save or delete footage, and even share footage on social media.

When shopping for a car dash cam. ensure that you get a product that meets your needs. All cameras do a fine job in basic recording tasks. They’re also supplied with the necessary mounting hardware and power cables for quick and easy installation. The additional features and the ability for rear and in-cabin recording will up the price but might be just what you’re looking for.