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Action camera or dash cam: what to choose for recording on the road?

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For drivers who want to record what’s happening on the road, choosing between a dash cam and an action camera can be a difficult task. Both devices offer video recording capabilities, but have different features that affect the ease of use and quality of recording in automotive conditions. Let’s compare an action camera and car recorder, to understand which device is best for recording on the road.

Main purpose and recording capabilities

DVRs are originally designed specifically for use in cars, so they are equipped with functions that simplify the recording process and make it automatic. The main advantages of a DVR:

  • Automatic recording start when ignition is turned on. The DVR starts recording as soon as the engine is turned on and stops recording when it is turned off. This is convenient for those who want to record continuously and do not have to turn on the device manually.
  • Loop recording. The device records video to the memory card cyclically, automatically deleting the oldest files when the memory is full. This allows you to record continuously without worrying about free space.

Action cameras like the GoPro or DJI Osmo are primarily designed to capture extreme sports, but they can also be used to record on the road. Key features of action cameras include:

  • High quality recording. Action cameras provide shooting in 4K or even 5K resolution, which allows you to capture the smallest details and use the camera to create high-quality video content. This can be useful if it is important to capture not only emergency situations, but also picturesque landscapes during the trip.
  • Versatility of use. The action camera can be easily removed from the mount and used for recording on a walk, bike ride or in other conditions, which makes it a more versatile device compared to a video recorder.

Viewing angle and image quality

DVRs usually have a viewing angle of 120 to 170 degrees, which allows you to cover most of the road in front of the car. This is enough to record the traffic situation and record possible accidents. However, in some models, the image quality may deteriorate at the edges of the frame, which is worth considering when choosing a device.

Action cameras often offer a wide viewing angle of up to 170-180 degrees and are better at recording in low-light conditions due to larger sensors and advanced image stabilization systems. This makes them better for nighttime shooting or shooting in changing lighting conditions. However, due to the wide viewing angle, the picture may have a “fish-eye” effect, which distorts the image, which is not always convenient for recording road accidents.

Mounting and ease of use in the car

Video recorders are designed for fixed mounting in the car, most often on the windshield or dashboard. Their compact size and fixed mount make them more convenient for all-day use: they do not interfere with the view and do not require frequent position adjustments.

Action cameras, although they can be mounted to the windshield with special mounts, do not always provide the same stability and convenience. They can be bulky and require more effort to install, especially if you need to provide a stable power supply and a connection to an external battery. In addition, action cameras do not always support the automatic recording function, which adds to the inconvenience.

Built-in functions and additional features

Modern video recorders have many useful functions, such as:

  • GPS module that records the speed and coordinates of the car. This can be useful in the event of an accident to prove where and at what speed the car was moving.
  • Impact sensor (G-sensor) that automatically saves a recording when sudden braking or a collision is detected.
  • Parking mode function that activates recording when motion or vibration is detected, even when the vehicle is parked.

Action cameras like GoPro don't have these specialized car features, but they may offer other useful features like voice control, slow-motion video, or underwater shooting, making them more versatile. However, these features aren't always relevant for recording on the road.

Cost and feasibility of choice

In terms of price, dash cams are generally cheaper than action cameras, especially if you consider mid-range and budget models. A quality dash cam starts at $50-$100, while an action camera like the GoPro Hero 12 Black can cost $400 and up. For drivers looking for a device solely for recording on the road, a dash cam will be a more economical and practical choice.

Action cameras, on the other hand, are a versatile solution that can be used not only in the car, but also for outdoor activities, sports, and travel. This makes them more attractive to people who want to capture events other than just car rides.

The choice between a dash cam and an action camera depends on your needs and preferences. If the main goal is to record traffic conditions and record possible incidents, a dash cam will be the better choice due to its automation, built-in functions and compactness. However, if you need a universal camera for various types of shooting, including on the water or in the mountains, an action camera may be a more profitable solution, despite its higher price.