All dash cams come with a power cord that plugs in to the cigarette lighter. These range from around 1.4 metres up to 6 metres. Price doesn't predict quality, however. We've found models from both ends of the spectrum that have failed to impress in our thorough lab and road tests. Some dash cams, including models from Garmin and Nextbase, now come with voice assistants or Alexa.

At here we don't let precious charging ports go to waste thanks to Dual USB Charger. Keep your phone and other devices powered up while using CarPlay, without sacrificing the charging port. Experience maximum efficiency and convenience on the road. Although you shouldn't be overly swayed by bells and whistles, it is important to consider what features you're getting for your money.

Tuner Specifications

They'll usually record in Full HD, and have additional features such as parking mode, GPS and wi-fi connectivity. Unlike cheaper alternatives, premium dash cams commonly record in 4K (3,840 x 2160p). You can also get more advanced extras such as voice recognition at this price point. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto infotainment integration in a vehicle is expected now, especially for vehicles manufactured within the last decade. Ever since Apple CarPlay’s introduction in 2014 and Android’s equivalent in 2015, most new cars adopted the technology to sync with a smartphone using either operating system. Even if you have no prior electronics or wiring experience, replacing a head unit has become very easy. Simply mount CarPlayNow portable navigation on dash, set the audio output via FM or AUX, and connect to your phone through CarPlay/Android Auto. That's all, no more daunting wiring job!

If a dash cam doesn't come with an app, you can still save your footage by transferring it to your computer.

You may prefer to have your dash cam hardwired in, so will need to consider whether you want it installed professionally.

Related: 12 Best Android Auto Head Units and Apple CarPlay Stereo to Buy in 2022 Hikity Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Receiver How easy a dash cam is to use is also very important. That includes how easy it is to fit, set up using the provided instructions and remove from the mount. That said, no features should be the deciding factor. We've tested Don't Buy dash cams with GPS and wi-fi.

A higher resolution doesn't guarantee better quality – we've uncovered higher resolution dash cams that produce dire footage. We've also found dash cams at 1080p that are clear and detailed. Dash cam ease of use GPS – allows you to pinpoint your exact location at the time of the crash. It will also show the route you travelled, and your speed. This could be useful for building up a picture of exactly what happened in a crash. Rear-window dash cam – these record the road behind your car. These devices are separate from the front camera; you install them directly on the rear window to get a clear, uninterrupted view of the road behind.

Being a portable device, it opens many use cases for the Dashboard Console. Travelling, for example, you could bring it with you for use in a hired car, for familiar in-car navigation. You could use it in a friend’s vehicle or even let them borrow it to try out Apple CarPlay in their own vehicle. You could swap it between multiple family vehicles. You can even bring the Console over to your next new vehicle without the need to buy a more costly vehicle with a CarPlay system option. The ways you can use this portable Dashboard Console are endless, and that just helps bolster how great this device is for all car owners. We have a basic model and an upgraded model, the upgraded model requires no installation and the basic model requires easy installation. Details of the basic model Basic installation The Nextbase 622GW, one of the brand's most expensive dash cams, records in Quad HD and comes with built in Alexa. Read our full review to see its score. THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.

Methodology

Related: 7 Best Wireless Android Auto Adapters to Connect Your Android Phone with Your Car Wirelessly Camecho Car Dashboard Camera