Dashcam can come to your rescue

The phrase ‘it’s cheap insurance’ couldn’t be more apt when discussing dashcams. Having video evidence of on-the-road misdeeds can turn an insurance claim from a case of ‘he said, she said’ to a case of ‘exhibit A proves it beyond doubt’.

And with a car being the second most expensive thing any of us are likely to purchase, protecting that asset with some video-capturing hardware makes a lot of sense.

But the array of cameras on offer is mind-boggling, and the features they flaunt extend well beyond simply recording video these days.

Here’s a spread of the best the market has to offer, no matter your budget.

Top-shelf

What is it? Thinkware U3000

How much? $1300

Pros: This isn’t a mere dashcam. Besides a highresolution Sony-sourced 4K front-facing camera and 2K/ QHD rear-facing camera, the U3000 also includes a lane departure warning function, frontal and rear collision warning, a short-range radar that can detect approaching people when parked, location tracking, night vision and remote monitoring via a smartphone app.

Cons: Besides its cost, the front-facing camera unit can be a smidge bulky, which may obstruct some of your vision depending on the shape of your windscreen.

Mid-range

What is it? IROAD X11

How much? $769

Pros: Wide-angle 2K/ QHD cameras cover both the front and rear, recording crisp detail. A security mode with motion detection records evidence of anyone tampering with your car while parked. The X11 also sports night vision and lane departure warning to help you stay within the painted lines. A diagnostic port interface helps to simplify installation.

Cons: While some dashcams have a built-in screen to show what’s been recorded, the X11 only allows playback via an app or by putting the memory card into a computer.

Bargain bin

What is it? Viofo A129 Pro Duo Ultra

How much? $365

Pros: It’s one of the most affordable 4K-capable dashcams, and it comes with a rear-facing camera. A motion-detecting parking mode, night vision, GPS tracking and a built-in 2.0-inch LCD screen add to the appeal.

Cons: The field of vision for both cameras isn’t as wide as with some other dashcams and if you have the front camera set to record in 4K, the rear camera is deactivated. Running both cameras at the same time steps the resolution down to 1080p, reducing finer details to a blur.