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Best Dash Cams of 2026
A dash cam records the road while you drive, which can be useful if you ever need to show what happened. Here are our picks, with our choice first.
By Kenji Morita · Updated October 25, 2026We earn commissions from links on this page, which can affect the order shown. How we make money
#1 Our choice
DashOne Pro Dash Cam
Why it is our choice, from the seller's listed features
Wide 170° lens to capture more of the road
Built-in G-sensor that protects the current clip from being overwritten after a sudden impact
Parking mode that records when motion is detected near the parked car
Low-light recording listed for day and night use
Built-in LCD screen for settings
Best for: drivers who want a simple windshield camera with a built-in screen.
Picks #2 to #5 link to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We do not show Amazon prices or ratings here; tap "Check price on Amazon" for current details.
#2Garmin
Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2
What stands out
Car key sized camera that records in 1080p HD
140-degree field of view
Voice control in six languages, audio recording optional
Best for: drivers who want a small front camera that stays out of sight
A compact dash cam with a wide lens, G-sensor and parking mode.
Wide 170° lens to capture more of the road
Built-in G-sensor that protects the current clip from being overwritten after a sudden impact
Parking mode that records when motion is detected near the parked car
Low-light recording listed for day and night use
Built-in LCD screen for settings
360° rotation to adjust the view
Suction-cup mount that connects to the vehicle power port
Good to know: It plugs into your vehicle's power port. Whether parking mode can run with the engine off depends on how that port is powered in your car.
Seller's stated terms: 30-day money-back guarantee. Check the current terms before you buy.
A dash cam records the road while you drive, which can be useful if you ever need to show what happened. This list looks at compact cameras that are easy to mount and use. We compared products using the specs and terms that sellers and brands publish. We did not lab test these products. Here is what we looked at:
Field of viewLens angle and how much of the road the camera can capture.
Recording featuresImpact detection, parking mode and low-light recording, as listed.
Ease of useMounting, screen and settings.
PowerHow it connects to the vehicle.
Seller termsReturns and shipping as stated by the seller.
This list is for you ifYou want a plug-in camera you can mount on the windshield in a few minutes.
Look elsewhere ifYou want a hard-wired, multi-camera fleet system installed by a shop.
What to look for in dash cams
Lens angle
A wider lens covers more lanes and the roadside, which matters at intersections.
Impact and parking features
A G-sensor can lock a clip after a sudden jolt. Parking mode can record near a parked car, but it needs power while the engine is off.
Mounting
Suction mounts are easy to move between cars. Place the camera so it does not block your view of the road.
Questions about dash cams
Is it hard to install?
The seller describes three steps: attach the suction mount to the windshield, plug the power cable into the vehicle power port, and use the screen to adjust settings.
Does it record while parked?
The seller lists a parking mode that records when motion is detected. It needs power from the vehicle while parked.
Does it have a screen?
Yes. The seller lists a built-in LCD screen for settings and adjustments.
Written by
Kenji Morita
Auto & Outdoor Editor
Covers car gear and outdoor tools, from dash cams to tire inflators. Meet the team.
