Best dual dash cam for pickup trucks

When it comes to safeguarding your pickup truck, which is often a significant investment and a workhorse for many, a dual dash cam isn’t just a gadget—it’s an essential security measure. The best dual dash cam for pickup trucks provides comprehensive front and rear surveillance, offering crucial evidence in case of an accident, theft, or vandalism. This full-spectrum coverage ensures you’re protected from all angles, capturing everything from fender benders to parking lot incidents, giving you unparalleled peace of mind. For truck owners, the added rear camera is particularly valuable, as larger vehicles often have blind spots and are more susceptible to rear-end collisions. Investing in a high-quality dual dash cam is undoubtedly worth it, especially given the rising costs of repairs and insurance premiums, turning a relatively small upfront cost into significant long-term protection and liability mitigation.

Here’s a breakdown of some top contenders that stand out for their features, reliability, and suitability for pickup trucks:

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  • Key Features: 4K front camera, 1080p waterproof rear camera, Wi-Fi, GPS, G-sensor, parking monitor, supercapacitor.
  • Average Price: Around $200-$250
  • Pros: Excellent video quality, durable for various weather conditions, reliable parking surveillance, easy file access via Wi-Fi.
  • Cons: Higher price point, app connectivity can sometimes be finicky.

• VIOFO A129 Pro Duo

  

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  • Key Features: 4K front, 1080p rear, Wi-Fi, GPS, buffered parking mode, supercapacitor, optional CPL filter.
  • Average Price: Around $240-$280
  • Pros: Top-tier video resolution, reliable parking mode, robust build quality, excellent low-light performance.
  • Cons: Can be more complex to install, rear camera cable management can be tricky in larger trucks.

• BlackVue DR900X-2CH

  • Key Features: 4K front, 1080p rear, built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, Cloud connectivity, parking mode with impact detection, supercapacitor.
  • Average Price: Around $450-$500
  • Pros: Premium features, seamless Cloud integration for remote viewing, sleek design, highly reliable.
  • Cons: Very expensive, Cloud features require a separate data plan, may be overkill for some users.

• Garmin Dash Cam Tandem

  • Key Features: 1440p front, 720p interior night vision, dual lenses in a single unit, voice control, GPS, automatic incident detection.
  • Average Price: Around $250-$300
  • Pros: Compact design, excellent interior footage with NightGlo technology, easy to use voice commands, reliable Garmin ecosystem.
  • Cons: Interior camera, not exterior rear, so it won’t cover rear-end collisions from outside, lower interior resolution.

• Thinkware U1000

  • Key Features: 4K front, 2K QHD rear, Cloud connectivity, energy-saving parking mode, super night vision, radar detection optional.
  • Average Price: Around $400-$450
  • Pros: Exceptional video clarity day and night, advanced parking surveillance options, robust Cloud features.
  • Cons: High price, can be complex to set up all features, rear camera may require professional installation.

• Nextbase 622GW

  • Key Features: 4K front, optional 1080p rear module, image stabilization, Alexa built-in, what3words integration, GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi.
  • Average Price: Around $300-$350 plus rear module
  • Pros: Stunning video quality, innovative features like what3words for emergency location, modular design for rear camera flexibility.
  • Cons: Rear camera is a separate purchase, battery life can be short without hardwiring, some features are less critical for basic protection.

• REDTIGER F7N

  • Key Features: 4K front, 1080p rear, Wi-Fi, GPS, G-sensor, parking monitor, supercapacitor, wide dynamic range.
  • Average Price: Around $150-$180
  • Pros: Excellent value for money, decent video quality, easy to install, user-friendly interface.
  • Cons: App can be basic, less refined parking mode compared to premium options, night vision may not be as strong as higher-end models.

Why a Dual Dash Cam is Non-Negotiable for Pickup Trucks

For pickup truck owners, a dual dash cam isn’t just a luxury.

It’s a strategic asset for safeguarding a valuable vehicle.

Trucks, by their nature, are often used for work, hauling, and off-road adventures, putting them in situations where an extra layer of security is vital.

The sheer size of a pickup means larger blind spots, and the potential for incidents, whether on busy highways or tight parking lots, increases.

A dual dash cam addresses these challenges head-on. Best dash cam ever

Comprehensive Coverage and Enhanced Security

The primary advantage of a dual dash cam is its ability to provide comprehensive coverage of both the front and rear of your vehicle.

This dual perspective is invaluable for several reasons:

• Evidence Collection: In the unfortunate event of an accident, particularly rear-end collisions which are common, the rear camera captures critical footage. This can be instrumental in proving fault, protecting you from fraudulent claims, and streamlining insurance processes. Imagine a scenario where someone backs into your parked truck and drives off. the rear cam is your silent witness.
• Parking Surveillance: Many dual dash cams offer parking mode capabilities. This means they continue to monitor your truck even when it’s parked, activating and recording if they detect impacts or motion. This is especially useful for trucks parked in public areas, construction sites, or even your driveway, protecting against hit-and-runs or vandalism.
• Deterrent to Theft and Vandalism: The visible presence of a dash cam can act as a deterrent to potential thieves or vandals. If they know they’re being recorded, they’re less likely to target your vehicle.
• Monitoring Cargo: For those who frequently haul valuable equipment or cargo in the bed of their truck, a rear-facing camera can also offer a degree of monitoring for these items, providing an extra layer of security against theft.

The True Value Proposition: Is a Dual Dash Cam Worth It?

Absolutely.

The question “is a dual dash cam worth it?” can be definitively answered with a resounding yes, especially for pickup truck owners.

Consider the costs involved in an accident or theft: rising insurance premiums, costly repairs, potential legal fees, and the sheer hassle of dealing with uninsured motorists or false claims. Best car front and rear camera

• Financial Protection: A dash cam can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in potential out-of-pocket expenses. By providing irrefutable evidence, it can help prevent your insurance company from assigning you fault unfairly, thus protecting your rates.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your truck is under constant surveillance, whether you’re driving or parked, offers significant peace of mind. This is particularly true for those who rely on their truck for their livelihood or who often park in less secure locations.
• Simplifying Claims: Insurers often expedite claims when clear video evidence is available. This means less time spent haggling and a quicker resolution to unfortunate incidents.
• Personal Safety: In rare but serious situations, dash cam footage can even document road rage incidents or provide evidence if you are ever approached or harassed while in your truck.

Key Features to Prioritize in a Pickup Truck Dual Dash Cam

When evaluating the best dual dash cam for pickup trucks, focusing on specific features ensures you get the most robust and reliable protection for your investment.

Not all dash cams are created equal, and what works for a compact car might not be ideal for a larger vehicle like a truck.

Video Resolution and Quality

Crystal clear footage is paramount.

What good is a dash cam if the license plate of an offending vehicle is unreadable?

• Front Camera Resolution: Aim for at least 1080p Full HD, but 4K 2160p is highly recommended for superior detail, especially for capturing license plates and distant objects. Higher resolution provides more identifiable information in case of an incident.
• Rear Camera Resolution: While 4K is ideal, 1080p for the rear camera is generally sufficient. The key is clarity to identify vehicles and impacts directly behind your truck.
• Wide Dynamic Range WDR / High Dynamic Range HDR: These features are crucial for balanced exposure, especially when transitioning from bright sunlight to shadows, or driving at night against oncoming headlights. They ensure details aren’t lost in overexposed or underexposed areas.
• Night Vision: For nighttime driving and parking surveillance, look for cameras with excellent low-light performance or dedicated night vision technology. This ensures critical details are captured even in dimly lit environments.

Parking Monitoring and Surveillance

For a pickup truck, which is often parked in various environments, a robust parking mode is incredibly valuable. Dash cam system for car

• Buffered vs. Non-Buffered:
  • Buffered parking mode also known as pre-buffered is superior. It records the few seconds before and after an event like an impact, giving you the full context of what happened. This is a must for hit-and-runs.
  • Non-buffered modes only start recording after an impact, potentially missing crucial initial moments.
• G-Sensor Impact Detection: This sensor detects sudden movements or impacts and automatically locks the current recording to prevent it from being overwritten. Essential for both driving and parking modes.
• Motion Detection: Some cameras use motion detection to trigger recordings when movement is detected around your parked truck. This is useful for capturing vandalism attempts.
• Hardwiring Kit: For continuous parking surveillance, a hardwiring kit is necessary. This connects the dash cam directly to your truck’s fuse box, providing constant power without draining the main battery. Many dash cams have low-voltage cut-off functions to prevent battery drain.

Durability and Temperature Resistance

Pickup trucks often operate in demanding conditions, from scorching summer heat to freezing winters.

• Supercapacitor vs. Lithium-Ion Battery:
  • Supercapacitors are highly recommended for dash cams in vehicles. They are more durable, reliable, and perform much better in extreme temperatures both hot and cold compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. They are also less prone to overheating or swelling.
  • Lithium-ion batteries can degrade quickly in temperature extremes and pose a slight fire risk if damaged or improperly manufactured.
• Build Quality: Look for dash cams with solid construction that can withstand vibrations and minor bumps common in trucks.

Installation Considerations for Pickup Trucks

Installing a dual dash cam in a pickup truck presents unique challenges compared to smaller vehicles due to the truck’s size, interior layout, and potential for outdoor use.

Proper installation is key to optimal performance and longevity.

Mounting the Front Camera

The front camera typically mounts on the windshield, behind the rearview mirror.

• Optimal Placement: Ensure the camera is mounted centrally and high enough to capture a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead without impeding your vision. For trucks, this often means slightly higher on the windshield due to the taller cabin.
• Adhesive vs. Suction Cup:
  • Adhesive mounts 3M VHB tape are generally more secure and less prone to falling off, especially in fluctuating temperatures or rough terrain. They provide a more permanent solution.
  • Suction cup mounts offer flexibility for repositioning but can lose suction over time or in extreme heat/cold. For a permanent installation, adhesive is preferred.
• Cable Routing: Plan the route for the power cable and the cable connecting to the rear camera. For a clean look, these should be tucked neatly along the headliner, down the A-pillar, and behind the dashboard to the power source cigarette lighter or fuse box.

Running the Rear Camera Cable

This is often the most challenging part of a dual dash cam installation in a pickup truck. 24 hour dashcam

The rear camera typically needs to be mounted either on the rear window or, for external waterproof cameras, on the truck’s exterior.

• Internal Rear Camera:
  • Route the cable: The cable needs to run from the front camera or main unit along the headliner, down the C-pillar or B-pillar for crew cabs, and then across to the rear window. In a long truck, this cable needs to be sufficiently long.
  • Hiding the cable: Use trim tools to tuck the cable neatly under headliners, door seals, and interior panels to keep it out of sight and prevent snagging.
• External Waterproof Rear Camera:
  • Drilling potentially: For an exterior rear camera, you might need to drill a small hole to feed the cable from the outside to the inside of the cabin. This should be done carefully to prevent water leaks.
  • Weather Sealing: Ensure any drilled holes are properly sealed with silicone or rubber grommets to protect against water and dust ingress.
  • Cable Protection: If the cable runs along the truck’s frame or exterior, ensure it’s protected from road debris, heat from the exhaust, and moisture. Use cable ties and conduit where necessary.

Powering the Dash Cam

The method of powering your dash cam affects its functionality, especially for parking mode.

• Cigarette Lighter Socket 12V Outlet: The simplest option, but it usually only provides power when the ignition is on, meaning no parking mode. It also leaves a visible cable.
• Hardwiring Kit: This connects the dash cam directly to your truck’s fuse box, drawing constant or accessory power.
  • Benefits: Allows for 24/7 parking surveillance, keeps the cigarette lighter free, and results in a much cleaner installation with hidden wires.
  • Installation: Requires identifying suitable fuse slots constant power for parking mode, accessory power for ignition-on recording and using fuse taps. Many kits include low-voltage cut-off protection to prevent battery drain. If you’re uncomfortable with electrical work, professional installation is highly recommended.

Advanced Features for the Modern Truck Owner

The best dual dash cams for pickup trucks often go beyond basic recording, incorporating advanced technologies that enhance safety, convenience, and evidence collection.

These features leverage the truck’s connectivity and size to offer a truly comprehensive surveillance solution.

GPS Functionality

Beyond just showing your location, integrated GPS offers a wealth of data that can be crucial in the aftermath of an incident. Car dash cams for sale

• Location Tracking: Records your truck’s precise location at all times, invaluable for proving where an incident occurred.
• Speed Data: Logs your speed, which can be critical evidence in determining fault in an accident. It can also help you monitor driving habits.
• Route Playback: Many dash cam apps allow you to view your recorded routes on a map, providing a visual representation of your journey alongside the video footage. This can be useful for both personal review and insurance claims.
• Time and Date Stamping: GPS ensures accurate time and date stamping on recordings, which is fundamental for validating evidence.

Wi-Fi Connectivity and Smartphone App Integration

Wireless connectivity has revolutionized how users interact with their dash cams.

• Easy File Access: Instead of removing the SD card, Wi-Fi allows you to wirelessly connect your smartphone to the dash cam. You can then view, download, and share recorded footage directly from the device. This is particularly convenient for quickly backing up important clips.
• Live View: Many apps offer a live view, allowing you to see what your dash cam is recording in real-time. This can be helpful during installation to ensure proper camera alignment or to check on your truck when parked nearby.
• Settings Management: Adjusting dash cam settings, such as resolution, G-sensor sensitivity, or parking mode options, becomes much easier and more intuitive through a smartphone app interface.
• Firmware Updates: Some dash cams support over-the-air OTA firmware updates via the app, ensuring your device always has the latest features and bug fixes without needing a computer.

Cloud Connectivity for Premium Models

For ultimate peace of mind, especially for trucks that might be left unattended for extended periods or in remote locations, cloud connectivity is a must.

• Remote Viewing: With a cloud-connected dash cam and a Wi-Fi hotspot or dedicated LTE module in your truck, you can remotely access live view and check on your vehicle from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Instant Notifications: Receive push notifications to your smartphone if an impact or motion is detected while your truck is parked.
• Cloud Storage: Important event videos can be automatically uploaded to the cloud, providing an off-site backup that protects your footage even if the dash cam or SD card is stolen or damaged.
• Two-Way Communication: Some advanced models allow for two-way voice communication through the dash cam, letting you speak to someone inside or near your truck e.g., to deter a potential thief.
• Cost Consideration: Cloud features typically require a separate subscription and often an LTE module or continuous Wi-Fi connection, adding to the overall cost of ownership. However, for high-value trucks or commercial applications, this investment can be well worth it.

Understanding Dash Cam Storage: SD Cards and Loop Recording

Effective storage management is fundamental to a dash cam’s utility.

Without proper storage, even the highest quality footage is useless.

This section delves into the nuances of SD cards and the critical concept of loop recording. Front and rear facing cameras

SD Card Requirements and Best Practices

The microSD card is the lifeline of your dash cam, storing all the recorded footage. Not just any SD card will do.

Dash cams put continuous write-and-rewrite demands on the card, requiring specific types for reliable performance.

• High Endurance Cards: This is perhaps the most crucial factor. Standard microSD cards are designed for occasional reads and writes, like those in smartphones or digital cameras. Dash cams, however, are constantly recording, deleting, and rewriting data. High Endurance cards e.g., Samsung PRO Endurance, SanDisk High Endurance are specifically designed for continuous recording and offer significantly longer lifespans under these strenuous conditions.
• Capacity: The required capacity depends on the dash cam’s resolution, the number of channels front + rear, and how long you want to store footage before it’s overwritten.
  • For a 4K front and 1080p rear dual dash cam, a 128GB card is a good starting point, typically offering several hours of continuous recording.
  • 256GB or even 512GB cards are recommended for longer recording times, especially if you have a buffered parking mode or want to store more footage before loop recording kicks in.
• Speed Class: Look for cards rated as U3 UHS Speed Class 3 or V30 Video Speed Class 30. These ratings ensure the card can handle the high data transfer rates required for continuous high-resolution video recording without dropping frames or corrupting files.
• Formatting: Regularly formatting the SD card monthly or bi-monthly directly within the dash cam itself is vital. This helps maintain the card’s health, prevents fragmentation, and clears out any corrupted files. Never just delete files. always format.

Loop Recording Explained

Loop recording is a standard feature in all dash cams that allows them to continuously record without running out of storage space.

• How it Works: When the SD card reaches its full capacity, the dash cam automatically overwrites the oldest unlocked files with new footage. This ensures that recording never stops.
• File Segmentation: Footage is typically recorded in short segments e.g., 1-minute, 3-minute, or 5-minute clips. This makes it easier to manage and retrieve specific events.
• Locked Files Event Files: The G-sensor, when triggered by an impact, automatically “locks” the current recording segment and often the preceding and subsequent segments so that it is not overwritten by loop recording. These locked files need to be manually deleted or transferred off the card.
• Manual Locking: Most dash cams also have a manual button that allows you to instantly lock the current recording, useful for capturing something significant you witness on the road.
• Importance: Without loop recording, your dash cam would stop recording once the SD card is full, leaving you unprotected. This feature ensures continuous surveillance.

Comparing Supercapacitors vs. Lithium-Ion Batteries in Dash Cams

When selecting a dash cam for your pickup truck, understanding the internal power source – specifically whether it uses a supercapacitor or a lithium-ion battery – is critical for long-term reliability and performance, especially given the varying temperatures a truck experiences.

Supercapacitors: The Preferred Choice

• Durability in Extreme Temperatures: This is the most significant advantage for a vehicle like a pickup truck. Supercapacitors are designed to withstand a wide range of temperatures, from freezing cold -20°C / -4°F to extreme heat up to 70°C / 158°F or even higher. This makes them ideal for dash cams mounted on windshields, which are directly exposed to harsh environmental conditions. They are far less prone to degradation or failure due to heat or cold.
• Enhanced Safety: Unlike lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors do not carry the same risk of overheating, swelling, or explosion. This makes them inherently safer, particularly in a vehicle that can be exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
• Longer Lifespan: Supercapacitors have a much longer cycle life than lithium-ion batteries. They can be charged and discharged tens of thousands of times without significant capacity loss, meaning they will last the lifetime of the dash cam itself.
• Rapid Charging/Discharging: They charge and discharge very quickly, which is beneficial for sudden power loss events e.g., during an accident where the dash cam needs to save the last few seconds of footage instantly before shutting down.
• Primary Function: Their main role in a dash cam is to provide enough power for a safe shutdown and to save the last recorded file after external power is cut e.g., when the engine is turned off or in an accident. They are not designed to power the dash cam for extended periods without external power.

Lithium-Ion Batteries: Considerations and Drawbacks

• Limited Temperature Tolerance: The primary drawback of lithium-ion batteries in dash cams is their sensitivity to temperature extremes.
  • Heat: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures common in parked vehicles can cause the battery to swell, degrade rapidly, lose capacity, and in rare cases, pose a fire risk. This swelling can also physically damage the dash cam’s internal components.
  • Cold: In very cold temperatures, lithium-ion batteries lose efficiency, leading to shorter operational times and potential inability to power the dash cam reliably for shutdown.
• Shorter Lifespan: Compared to supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries have a shorter lifespan and will degrade over time, especially with constant charging and discharging in varying temperatures.
• Potential for Swelling: Battery swelling is a common issue in dash cams with lithium-ion batteries that have been exposed to high temperatures, often rendering the device unusable.
• Applications: While less ideal for dash cams, lithium-ion batteries are often found in cheaper dash cams or those designed to be portable and operate for short periods off vehicle power. They are more suited for devices that are regularly taken indoors.

Recommendation for Pickup Trucks

Given the potential for high interior temperatures in a parked pickup truck especially during summer months and the need for robust reliability, a dash cam equipped with a supercapacitor is the clear and recommended choice for pickup truck owners. This ensures longevity, safety, and consistent performance regardless of weather conditions. Dash cam that connects to iphone

Maintenance Tips for Your Dual Dash Cam

Just like any electronic device, a dual dash cam requires a bit of routine maintenance to ensure it performs reliably and captures critical footage when you need it most.

Neglecting these simple steps can lead to corrupted files, missed recordings, or even premature device failure.

Regular SD Card Formatting

This is arguably the most crucial maintenance task for any dash cam.

• Why it’s important: Over time, continuous writing and rewriting of data on an SD card can lead to fragmentation, corrupted files, and a decrease in the card’s overall performance and lifespan. Even high-endurance cards benefit from regular formatting.
• How often: Aim to format your dash cam’s microSD card at least once a month, or more frequently if you do a lot of driving or if your dash cam is frequently triggered in parking mode.
• Method: Always format the card directly within the dash cam itself. Do not remove the card and format it on a computer, as this can sometimes introduce compatibility issues with the dash cam’s file system. The dash cam’s menu will have an option for “Format” or “Delete All.”
• Backup important files: Before formatting, always ensure you have backed up any critical footage accident clips, interesting road events that you want to keep.

Cleaning the Lenses and Windshield

A dirty lens or a smudged windshield can drastically reduce the quality of your recorded footage, rendering it useless.

• Lens Cleaning:
  • Frequency: As needed, or at least every few weeks.
  • Method: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth specifically designed for optics. Gently wipe the front and rear camera lenses to remove dust, fingerprints, and smudges. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners, as these can damage lens coatings. A small amount of lens cleaning solution designed for cameras can be used if necessary.
• Windshield Cleaning:
  • Frequency: Every time you clean your truck’s interior glass.
  • Method: Ensure the area of the windshield where the dash cam is mounted and the rear window for the rear camera is clean. Use a glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth. A clear windshield is crucial for the dash cam to capture clear, unobstructed views.
  • Placement Consideration: If your dash cam is mounted with adhesive, be careful not to get cleaner directly on the adhesive, as it can weaken the bond over time.

Checking Firmware Updates

Dash cam manufacturers regularly release firmware updates to improve performance, add new features, fix bugs, and enhance stability. Wireless rear camera for car

• Frequency: Check the manufacturer’s website or your dash cam’s companion app periodically e.g., quarterly.
• How to update: Follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions for updating firmware. This usually involves downloading a file to your SD card and then inserting the card into the dash cam, which will automatically initiate the update process.
• Benefits: Updated firmware can improve video quality, optimize parking mode, enhance app connectivity, and address security vulnerabilities, ensuring your dash cam operates at its peak.

Legal Aspects and Privacy with Dash Cams

While dash cams are powerful tools for protection and evidence, it’s crucial to understand the legal and privacy implications surrounding their use, especially when operating a large vehicle like a pickup truck.

Laws vary by jurisdiction, so a basic understanding is key.

Legality of Dash Cam Use in the United States

Generally, using a dash cam for personal recording in your vehicle is legal across all 50 U.S. states. However, there are nuances:

• Public vs. Private Property: You can typically record anything visible from public property. This includes public roads, sidewalks, and areas visible from those points. Recording on private property without permission might raise legal questions, though in the context of an accident on private property, the footage would still be highly relevant as evidence.
• Audio Recording Laws: This is where it gets tricky. Many states have “one-party consent” laws for audio recording, meaning if you are a party to the conversation, you can record it without the other person’s explicit permission. However, some states e.g., California, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Washington are “two-party consent” states, meaning all parties involved in a conversation must consent to be recorded. If your dash cam records audio, be mindful of these laws, especially if you are recording conversations with passengers or law enforcement. To be safe, consider disabling audio recording if you’re concerned, or informing others that audio is being recorded.
• Mounting Location: Ensure your dash cam is mounted in a location that does not obstruct your view of the road. Most states have laws against anything blocking the driver’s view, and some specifically mention items attached to the windshield. Typically, mounting behind the rearview mirror is acceptable.
• Use as Evidence: Dash cam footage is generally admissible as evidence in court or for insurance claims, provided it’s relevant and authenticated. It can be crucial in proving fault, contesting tickets, or documenting incidents.

Privacy Concerns for Others

While your dash cam protects you, it also records other people.

• Public Expectation of Privacy: In public spaces, there is generally no expectation of privacy. Therefore, recording other vehicles or pedestrians on public roads is typically not a privacy violation.
• Accidental Recording of Private Spaces: Be mindful if your dash cam can capture views into private homes or properties. While usually permissible if visible from a public road, continuous, intentional recording of private residences without cause could lead to complaints.
• Sharing Footage: Exercise caution when sharing dash cam footage publicly, especially if it identifies individuals. While sharing footage of criminal acts or dangerous driving is often beneficial, avoid sharing footage that could be construed as harassing or invading privacy without a legitimate purpose.
• Interior Cameras: If your dual dash cam has an interior-facing camera common in ride-sharing vehicles or for monitoring passengers, be aware of the privacy rights of those inside your truck. In many places, passengers should be informed they are being recorded.

It’s always a good practice to briefly research the specific dash cam laws in your state or any states you frequently travel through to ensure full compliance and peace of mind. Dashcam and rear cam

Factors Influencing Dash Cam Pricing

The price of a dual dash cam for pickup trucks can vary significantly, from under $100 to over $500. Understanding what drives these price differences helps you make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.

Resolution and Video Quality

This is often the most significant factor impacting cost.

• Standard Definition e.g., 720p or 1080p for both cams: More budget-friendly, typically under $100-$150. While they capture events, details like license plates might be harder to discern, especially at a distance or in low light.
• High Definition e.g., 1080p front, 1080p rear: The sweet spot for many, usually in the $150-$250 range. Offers decent clarity for general evidence.
• Ultra High Definition e.g., 4K front, 1080p/2K rear: These models provide superior detail and clarity, making license plates and finer details much easier to identify. They typically fall in the $250-$400+ range.
• Advanced Imaging WDR/HDR, Night Vision: Cameras with advanced sensors and processing for better low-light performance and balanced exposure in challenging lighting conditions will be more expensive.

Features and Connectivity

The more bells and whistles, the higher the price tag.

• GPS: Adds location, speed, and route logging. Found in most mid-range to high-end models.
• Wi-Fi: Allows for wireless transfer of files and easy settings management via a smartphone app. Common in most dash cams above the entry-level.
• Cloud Connectivity: Requires built-in Wi-Fi and often an LTE module or external hotspot. Allows for remote viewing, notifications, and cloud storage. This is a premium feature, adding significantly to the cost, typically found in models $350+.
• Parking Modes:
  • Basic impact detection parking modes are common.
  • Advanced buffered parking modes, energy-saving modes, or radar detection optional accessories are more sophisticated and contribute to a higher price.
• Voice Control / AI Integration: Features like Alexa built-in or specific voice commands add convenience but also to the price.

Durability and Components

The quality of internal components significantly impacts reliability and longevity.

• Supercapacitor vs. Lithium-Ion Battery: Dash cams with supercapacitors are generally more expensive due to their superior heat resistance and lifespan compared to cheaper lithium-ion battery models. For a pickup truck, a supercapacitor is a worthwhile investment.
• Lens Quality: Better quality lenses e.g., multi-layered glass elements provide sharper images and are more durable.
• Processor: A powerful processor is needed to handle high-resolution recording, especially with dual cameras, and to support advanced features without lag.
• Build Quality: Premium materials and robust construction that can withstand vibrations and temperature fluctuations will cost more.

Brand Reputation and Support

Established brands often command higher prices, but this typically comes with better reliability, customer support, and firmware updates. Backup camera system

• Premium Brands e.g., BlackVue, Thinkware, VIOFO, Garmin: These brands invest heavily in R&D, offer excellent customer support, and provide regular firmware updates. Their products are often at the higher end of the price spectrum.
• Value Brands e.g., Rexing, Nextbase, REDTIGER: Offer competitive features at more accessible price points. While performance can be very good, customer support or app functionality might sometimes be less polished than premium options.

Ultimately, the “best” dash cam isn’t necessarily the most expensive.

It’s the one that best balances features, reliability, and price for your specific needs as a pickup truck owner.

Prioritize core features like reliable parking mode, good resolution, and a supercapacitor for longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dual dash cam for pickup trucks?

The “best” truly depends on your priorities, but top contenders for pickup trucks often include the Rexing V55 with waterproof rear camera for balanced performance and value, VIOFO A129 Pro Duo for superior video quality, or BlackVue DR900X-2CH for premium cloud features and reliability.

Is a dual dash cam worth it for a pickup truck?

Yes, absolutely. Cameras for cars and trucks

For pickup trucks, a dual dash cam is highly worth it due to their size, blind spots, and the potential for incidents in various driving and parking scenarios, providing crucial evidence for accidents, theft, and vandalism.

What features should I look for in a dash cam for a pickup truck?

Prioritize 4K front and 1080p rear resolution, a supercapacitor for extreme temperature resistance, buffered parking mode, GPS, Wi-Fi for easy file access, and a wide dynamic range WDR for clear night vision.

Can a dual dash cam monitor my truck when it’s parked?

Yes, many dual dash cams offer a parking mode that allows them to monitor your truck when parked. This typically requires hardwiring the dash cam to your truck’s fuse box for continuous power.

Do dual dash cams record audio inside the truck?

Yes, most dual dash cams record audio by default. However, be aware of two-party consent laws in some U.S. states regarding audio recording, especially if recording passengers. You can usually disable audio recording in the dash cam’s settings.

How do I install a dual dash cam in a pickup truck?

Installation involves mounting the front camera on the windshield, routing the power cable, and then running the rear camera cable from the front unit to the rear of the truck. Front rear and cabin dash cam

For continuous parking mode, a hardwiring kit connected to the fuse box is recommended.

Professional installation is an option for complex setups.

What kind of SD card do I need for a dash cam?

You need a high-endurance microSD card e.g., Samsung PRO Endurance, SanDisk High Endurance with a U3 or V30 speed rating and a sufficient capacity at least 128GB for dual 4K/1080p setups.

How often should I format my dash cam’s SD card?

It’s recommended to format your dash cam’s SD card directly within the dash cam at least once a month to maintain its health and prevent file corruption.

What’s the difference between a supercapacitor and a lithium-ion battery in a dash cam?

Supercapacitors are preferred for dash cams due to their superior durability and resistance to extreme temperatures hot and cold, longer lifespan, and enhanced safety. Lithium-ion batteries are more prone to degradation, swelling, and overheating in harsh vehicle environments. Easiest dashcam to install

Can a dash cam lower my insurance premiums?

While a dash cam doesn’t directly lower premiums upfront, it can significantly benefit you in the event of an accident by providing irrefutable evidence.

This can help prove you’re not at fault, preventing premium increases and protecting your no-claims bonus.

Are dual dash cams difficult to use?

Most modern dual dash cams are designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive menus and smartphone apps for easy setup, viewing footage, and managing settings.

Will a dash cam drain my truck’s battery?

If hardwired for parking mode, a dash cam draws minimal power. Most hardwiring kits include a low-voltage cut-off feature that automatically shuts off the dash cam if your truck’s battery voltage drops too low, preventing it from draining your battery completely.

Can I view dash cam footage on my phone?

Yes, most dash cams with Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to connect wirelessly to your smartphone via a dedicated app. You can then view, download, and share footage directly from your phone. Rear view cameras for trucks

What happens if my dash cam’s SD card gets full?

Dash cams use loop recording, which means when the SD card is full, the oldest unlocked files are automatically overwritten with new footage. This ensures continuous recording. Event-triggered locked files are protected from overwriting.

Do dash cams record when the truck is turned off?

Yes, if properly hardwired and equipped with a parking mode feature, the dash cam can record continuously or upon impact/motion detection even when the truck’s engine is off.

What is GPS used for in a dash cam?

GPS records your truck’s location, speed, and route data, stamping it onto the video footage. This information is invaluable for proving your whereabouts, speed, and trajectory during an incident.

How important is night vision for a pickup truck dash cam?

Very important. Trucks are often driven and parked in various lighting conditions. Good night vision enhanced by WDR/HDR ensures that crucial details like license plates and incident specifics are captured clearly even in low-light environments.

Can I install an external waterproof rear camera on my truck?

Yes, some dual dash cam kits include or support external waterproof rear cameras, which are ideal for mounting outside the truck, often near the license plate, providing a clearer view without window tint obstruction. 4 camera car system

What is the typical lifespan of a good dual dash cam?

With proper maintenance especially regular SD card formatting and if it uses a supercapacitor, a good quality dual dash cam can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years or even longer.

Are professional installation services available for dash cams?

Yes, if you’re uncomfortable with electrical wiring or want a very clean, discreet installation, many automotive shops or car audio specialists offer professional dash cam installation services.undefined