Best Dash Cam Under $50: Our Top 7 Picks
Road accidents and vehicle burglary are common occurrences. An anticipated turn going wrong or a faulty locking mechanism may not seem like much, but they often cost you your vehicle. Serious car wrecks and thefts often make their way to courts, and only concrete evidence clears the line.
Dash cams act as your hidden witness against road accidents and vehicle thefts by documenting road trips. However, thousands of market alternatives may lead you into buying an unsuited piece. Therefore, to prevent all the inconveniences and ensure a budget-compatible buy, we have combined the top budget dash cams.
Time constraints often put you on the lookout for universal solutions. In that case, CHORTAU B-T19 is the best dash cam under $50 with sharp image quality.
Table of Contents
- Our Selection Criteria
- Things To Consider When Buying a Dash Cam
- Best Dash Cam Under $50: Our Picks
- The Bottom Line
- FAQs
Our Selection Criteria
Before diving into the most promising dash cam list on the internet, let’s explore the points we used to select these products. The products mentioned here are awesome. But if you decide to conquer the rogue waves alone, these pointers will steer you to the best options.
Image Quality
The first performance metric we considered is image quality, aka resolution. Resolution is the number of pixels that can fit the screen vertically. The higher the number of pixels, the better the image quality. After all, a blurred video doesn’t make sound evidence.
The most common resolutions in dashcams are 1080, 1440, and 2160. You can always pick higher resolutions. However, 1080p is the recommended industry standard.
Night Vision
A dash cam must have the capacity to capture high-quality (or at least considerable quality) images and video in low light. It is beneficial for people traveling to distant places at night.
The quality of the night vision depends upon the image resolution of the unit, so naturally, the more pixels, the better the night vision results. But in this budget, you won’t get excellent quality, so consider that when comparing the options.
FOV (Field of View)
The final performance metric is the field of view or FOV, the capturing area of the camera. Dash cams with higher FOV allow you to see a wider lot than those with less FOV. Although larger FOV is good, it is crucial to understand the tradeoff between FOV and resolution.
Larger FOVs compromise the image quality. Also, there is no standard line to separate good FOVs from not-so-good FOVs, as manufacturers opt for different measuring orientations.
Things To Consider When Buying a Dash Cam
The following guide will help you pin down the best dash cam under $50 without compromising the features. These are the must-have factors, but you can alter them according to your preferences.
However, ensure you get the most out of your bucks.
Storage
The first thing you’ll need to get green-checked is the unit’s storage capacity. Now, the storage capacity of the ideal unit depends on your use case. If you want a dash cam to record footage of a 3 to 4 hours long driving trip, then 32 GB storage capacity will suffice.
However, if you are looking for a parking mode dash cam, you’ll need a memory of 64 GB, so the camera can capture everything without overwriting. Most users like plentiful storage space, so 128 GB is the most bought storage size.
The dashcams in this range won’t come with a 32 GB SD card (and even that is not always the case), so you’ll have to purchase separately.
File Sharing Capability
You’ll need a model with the adequate file-sharing capacity to transfer the footage to your desired medium easily. Dash cams have various connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cloud compatibility.
You can choose any model with the desired connectivity options. However, usually, the dash cams under $50 incorporate bluetooth and USB transfer.
Resolution
Resolution is an essential factor to consider when buying dash cams. You can always opt for higher resolutions. But setting the bar at the 1080p minimum is better, as anything less will compromise the footage quality.
Mounting Style
The placement of the unit also plays a significant part in making the choice. Most dash cams have suction cups to stick on your vehicle’s windshields. However, some models also have dashboard placements and are more suitable for vehicles with increased dashboard space.
Number Of Cameras
Some dashcams incorporate multiple cameras as well. Again, it is something that you can alter according to your needs and liking. But it is always better to consider multiple cameras as they provide more security and versatile surveillance from the front and rear.
Additional Features
Though there are other things to look for in a dashcam, these features mentioned above are must-haves in a dash cam. However, you can look for additional features like audio recording, impact detection, and IR capturing.
Only a handful of models under 50 bucks offer these features, but if you dig in the right direction, you’ll find a piece.
Best Dash Cam Under $50: Our Picks
1. CHORTAU B-T19 Mini Dash Cam
Highly rated for its battery life, this cam is an ideal choice for you if you’re a long-route traveler. You won’t need to be tense about repeated plug-ins after every particular period.
Pros: 3.2 inch LCD Display, 170 degrees Wide Angle Lens, 1080P HD resolution, Loop recording
Cons: Only USB connectivity
CHORTAU B-T19 dash cam tops our list of the best dash cam under $50 because it covers almost all the features necessary for a dash cam.
It is a front-only model that records in 1080P HD with clear image and video quality. Apart from its good battery life, it ensures you don’t miss a thing while your long trips, recording every sign and mark within 170 degrees angle.
Starting from its installation, that’s super easy to set up! Just mount it on your windshield with the suction cup and holder, insert a 32 GB SD card, and connect it to the power cable. When you start the engine, the dash cam will automatically turn on and start recording.
If you drive long trips in hot conditions without AC, the camera can handle up to 130+ F temperature – that’s what we love in this dash cam.
When you’re on long trips, your memory card fills up due to lengthy recordings. But the loop recording feature of the CHORTAU dash cam makes you tension free and automatically rewrites the old footage. Overwriting doesn’t disturb the locked clips detected and secured by its G-sensor during collisions and shakes, so you won’t have to worry about losing that crucial evidence in case of an accident.
But wait, there’s more! This dash cam also has a 24-hour parking monitor. That’s right, even when you’re not in the car, it’ll turn on and lock the current video if there’s any collision or damage. No need to worry about anyone messing with your ride, as this dash cam has got your back.
Despite its night version, it might not be excellent at night, but you should accept that for the price. Otherwise, you can go for a bit more expensive model with good night vision quality.
2. Yansoo B09JW67L73 Dash Cam Front and Rear
Looking for a dual dash cam that captures from both the front and back of your vehicle? Get this model with HD quality with both cameras for just under $50.
Pros: Dual camera (front and rear), 1080P HD resolution, 3-inch large screen size, built-in microphone, 170-degree wide field of view, 1-year warranty
Cons: No WiFi connectivity
Yansoo B09JW67L73 records both the front and rear footage in 1080P full HD and lets you watch live footage and playback on the 3-inch wide display screen. The 170-degree field of view covers almost every necessary area around the road and provides you with evidence of in-depth details.
Though the rear camera can only record within 150 degrees, it’s enough for the backward details. These details get crystal clear due to Sony Starvis, which retains details in high-contrast light and improves low-light sensitivity. So you’ll get great footage even in the dark.
And in case of an accident, the G-Sensor function will lock your video to prevent it from being overwritten. However, the dashcam is not great at capturing small details like license plates.
It’s highly rated for its easy installation, and you can easily attach it to your windshield quickly. It comes with a 3-month unconditional refund and a 1-year warranty, so in case of any damage, you could contact them via email and get a replacement.
Though it has impressive features at this economical rate, some users have complained that it doesn’t have manual settings.
3. 70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S
For those who don’t want to mess around with manual settings but still need a decent dash cam under $50, this dash cam is worth buying.
Pros: Affordable price point, high-quality 1080p HD resolution, the wide-angle lens captures more detail, loop recording saves storage space, G-sensor saves and locks important footage
Cons: No built-in GPS functionality, No screen
We rate 70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S for its 1080p HD recording and easy-to-catch voice commands ability. With this level of clarity, you won’t miss any minute details around your car on the road.
Our favorite feature is its voice control, which gives you a hands-free driving experience. It helps you to take pictures and record videos with just your voice. We also like its sleek, cylindrical design and cable management feature, making it easy to hide.
The dashcam also has loop recording and evidence protection, overwriting the oldest videos with the latest ones and storing the footage locally on a microSD memory card. This ensures that you always have enough space on your memory card for new recordings.
The G-sensor feature is another valuable addition to this dash cam. In the event of an accident or sudden impact, this sensor will automatically save and lock footage so that it can’t be overwritten. This means that you’ll always have evidence of any incidents on the road.
However, there’s no display screen in this dash cam. So you’ll have to use 70mai’s mobile app (available for both Android and iOS). Some users have complained that the playback of video can be choppy, even with a strong internet signal. But you shouldn’t mind it with all the other well-working features under $50.
4. Seegar DC44 Dash Cam 1080P Full HD
Highly rated for its picture and video quality, this dash cam is ideal for you if you can’t afford expensive products but still need quality recording while driving.
Pros: Full HD 1080P video quality, wide-angle lens for maximum coverage, loop recording and G-sensor for automatic accident detection, easy to install and use, comes with a suction cup mount
Cons: No screen for playback
For under $50, you’re getting two years warranty with the Seegar DC44 Dash Cam and HD quality recording with an extra layer of protection while driving. Mainly designed for filming road incidents, this dashcam is also perfect for all-around use. With its lifetime technical support, you can rest assured that you’re making a smart investment.
Unlike other budget models, this dash cam has a sizeable three-inch LCD screen. So you can easily monitor and replay critical moments even when driving at high speeds. The suction cup mount will securely hold your dashcam and allow you to adjust it effortlessly. Otherwise, you can opt for the white adhesive-backed mount to install this cam.
However, the Seegar DC44 does not have a built-in GPS or a screen for playback. So, if these features are essential to you, you may want to consider other options, like CHORTAU B-T19, for its 3.2-inch large display screen.
5. Rexing V1 Basic Dash Cam
If you need a small dash cam that you can secretly fit in your vehicle, this model is for you. Despite its lack of a few stunning features, the dash cam does the job well at an affordable price.
Pros: Super Night Vision, Parking Monitor, full HD recording quality, wide Dynamic Range for balanced images and footage, 170-degree super wide angle lens, accident auto-detection
Cons: No WiFi connectivity or GPS feature available, limited storage options with no memory card included
Rexing V1 Basic is a compact, sleek device that can easily blend with your car’s interior. The mount is sturdy and can hold the camera in place without wobbling during the ride. Its discreet design can make it hard to spot, making it perfect for those who want to keep a low profile, and that’s why we listed it in our list of the best dash cam under $50.
The camera can record 1080p Full HD video and capture every detail with sharpness and clarity. The 170-degree wide-angle lens ensures the camera can capture a broad view of the road and gives you peace of mind while driving.
The Rexing V1 Basic Dash Cam also comes with loop recording, meaning it can automatically overwrite old footage when the storage card is full. It makes you not worry about running out of storage space or changing SD cards while driving.
Likewise, it has a G-sensor that detects any sudden movements and automatically saves the current footage, protecting it from being overwritten.
On the downside, the device lacks advanced features such as GPS and WiFi connectivity. Therefore, it cannot provide you with location data or connect to your smartphone, which might be a dealbreaker for some users. However, you can purchase Rexing GPS Logger separately for location and speed details.
Its battery may die within a year if you consistently drive the car in extreme temperatures. If you need a dash cam with element battery health, you can choose CHORTAU B-T19.
6. Ssontong A10 Dashcam for Car
Popular for its large display screen for live viewing and playbacks, this dash cam is perfect for you if you frequently drive in busy areas or on highways. It can be helpful for you to navigate through traffic or in challenging driving conditions.
Pros: Full HD 1080p resolution, large 3-inch screen, superior night vision, and WDR technology,
G-sensor and loop recording, free 32GB SD card, 1-year warranty
Cons: Not very good in low light, Only front camera
We rate Ssontong A10 Dashcam for Car for its 3-inch large IPS display screen and full HD 1080P resolution. The detailed recording also makes it a good choice. Though the manufacturer claims that this dashcam can read license plates up to 30 feet away, our research suggests that it’s not the case. It does provide a decent-quality video, but you won’t be able to read license plates in low-light conditions.
This front-only dash cam has a plug-and-play feature. This means that Ssontong Dashcams will automatically start recording as soon as you turn on your car. This dash cam is incredibly easy to install and comes with everything you need right out of the box. It includes a free 32 GB SD card, unlike many dash cams in this price range.
Perfect for security, its highly-sensitive G-sensor makes it a stand-out feature. Unlike other dash cams, it has more sensitivity toward any disturbance.
It’s not highly rated for super night vision, but still, its WDR technology ensures that you record safely and reliably in good lighting conditions. You’ll never have to worry about running out of space on your SD card or losing substantial evidence again. Its loop recording will do the job and automatically rewrite the old files.
Some reviewers found the microphone quality to be subpar. If you prioritize this feature, you can choose 70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S.
7. GOODTS D013
Perfect for you if you want a little fancier dash cam that fits anywhere easily, this dash cam is an excellent budget that offers superb value for money.
Pros: Mini design, HD recording, emergency lock, wide field of view, free 32GB card, loop recording
Cons: No WiFi and GPS, only a 1.5-inch screen
With a real 1080P full high-definition camera, the GOODTS D013 captures clear, high-quality videos and images of the road ahead. It provides valuable evidence if you are involved in an incident and reduces the possibility of legal disputes.
It is a favorite for its little, compact design that allows for easy installation behind the rearview mirror. With that, you can view the road without causing distractions.
Like other dash cams under $50, this model also has a built-in G-sensor and emergency lock. The automatic detection of any impact or movement secures the footage and saves it as an emergency file.
This feature ensures that the video is not overwritten during loop recording and prevents any disagreement in the event of an accident. Continuous recording with loop recording and a 32GB SD card, the dash cam records seamless short clips and automatically overwrites the oldest unlocked recordings.
The parking monitoring feature offers 24-hour supervision of the surrounding environment while parked, and you can view your vehicle, ensuring safety and security. Though it doesn’t come with a rear camera, Its 170-degree wide-angle lens eliminates driving blind spots and captures more details with the front cam.
Some users have under-reviewed it for allocating large disk space during loop recording, which can result in large file sizes and may cause concerns regarding SD card space.
The Bottom Line
There you have it. The seven best dash cams under $50 you can try, no matter if you’re a part-time or long-trip driver. These affordable devices provide essential safety and security benefits, offering you peace of mind by monitoring your vehicle and surroundings.
While these budget-friendly options lack features such as WiFi connectivity for cloud recording and built-in GPS tracking, they still provide all the basic functions.
If you require these advanced features, you may need to consider a higher-priced option. But for those looking for an affordable and reliable option, any of these seven dash cams will do the trick. If you ask for our recommendations, we’d advise you to go with CHORTAU B-T19 which we consider to be the best dash cam under $50.
FAQs
Though many good budget dash cams are available, according to our research, CHORTAU B-T19 Mini Dash Cam is the best of all. This model features quality HD recordings, a 170-degree wide field of view, and a 3.2-inch screen for under $50.
A good dash cam costs anywhere between $150-300. In general, the more you pay, the better quality you get if you don’t care about your budget. With just basic features, you can buy a dash cam for under $50. But don’t expect to read the license plates of moving cars with these.
