Dash Cam Basics and Power
Should You Leave a Dash Cam Plugged In?
Should you leave a dash cam plugged in? Yes, with the right wiring. Here is when constant power is safe, when it drains your battery, and how to set it up.
Choose a dash cam that suits your car and your budget
Clear picks and side-by-side comparisons for dash cams from Garmin, VIOFO, Vantrue, REDTIGER, WOLFBOX and Rexing. Start with the kind of cam you want, a model you're weighing or the setup question on your mind.
Latest guides
Setup, Storage and FootageHow to Connect a Dash Cam
How to connect a dash cam: route the cable, choose a power source, wire it safely and confirm the camera records before you drive away.
Dash Cam Basics and PowerIs There a Completely Wireless Dash Cam?
Yes, there are completely wireless dash cams, but most still need a power cable. See how battery, plug-in and hardwired setups compare and what to buy.
Setup, Storage and FootageHow to Install a Rear Dash Cam
How to install a rear dash cam: run the cable along the headliner and pillars, mount the lens on clean glass, and set loop recording correctly.
Dash Cam Basics and PowerIs There a Battery-Operated Dash Cam?
Is there a battery operated dash cam? Yes, but most run on a supercapacitor and charge only while driving. Here's how to get true all-night parking power.
Setup, Storage and FootageHow to Reset a 70mai Dash Cam
Learn how to reset a 70mai dash cam when the app won't connect or settings get stuck, plus when to use the reset button and what to do next.
Dash Cam Basics and PowerHow Long Does a Dash Cam Record?
How long a dash cam records depends on your card size, resolution and loop setting. See typical recording times and how to keep footage longer.
Setup, Storage and FootageHow to Access Dash Cam Footage
Learn how to access dash cam footage from the app or a card reader, plus how loop recording and locked files change what you find.
- Dash Cam Basics and Power
Does a Dash Cam Record Audio Inside the Car?
Yes, most dash cams can record audio inside the car, and it's usually on by default. Learn how the mic works, how to mute it, and the laws to know.