Dash Cam VS Mirror Cam

　　Both dash cams and mirror cams are car video cameras and usually have the same core functions (dual lenses, backup cam, WIFI, wide angle, G-sensor, looping recording, night vision, HD 1080p, and software.), but there are some key differences.

　　Dash cams are small video cameras that are fitted within the vehicle. Most commonly, they are mounted on the dashboard or the windshield of the car using a suction cup.

　　Mirror cams are essentially a kind of dashboard camera that is attached to or replaces a rearview mirror with a few critical differences.

　　The main differences between a dash cam and a mirror cam are:

　　Screen (mirror cameras are larger)

　　Size (dash cams are much smaller)

　　Design (hardware, screen, etc)

　　Price (mirror cams are more expensive)

　　Usage (dash cams are dedicated devices, mirror cams are also rearview mirrors)

　　Installation place (mirror cams are fixed on the rearview mirror)

　　1. Usage

　　Dash cams are designed to be dedicated car recording devices while mirror cams can be used as a rearview mirror, a dash cam and occasionally a reverse camera.

　　Being a dedicated device, dash cam don’t compromise on anything compared to mirror cams. For example, when trying to view footage in real time on a mirror camera, the screen will obstruct at least half of your rearview mirror, which can be dangerous when driving.

　　2. Size

　　Dash cams are typically very small and discreet devices, making them very practical to have. Mirror cams can be very big, which may obstruct your vision of the road.

　　3. Screen

　　Dash cams come with a screen that allows you to review footage in real time from a dedicated screen. Mirror cams can show you a larger screen overlapped on the mirror, however, you need to manually activate it and it can be very dangerous as it obstructs half or more of your rearview mirror. If you’re already trained to check the rear view mirror, so it’s easier to use these mirror cam rather than messing around with another gadget while you’re driving.

　　4. Installation place

　　Since mirror cams must be connected and hooked to the place where your rearview mirror in, their placement is fixed.

　　Dash cams, on the other hand, are placed using a suction cup and can be placed on windshield or anywhere in your car, so long as your power cable reaches far enough.

　　Conclusions

　　Although mirror cams have the same core functions and essential dash cam features not found in traditional cameras and action cameras, experts recommend dash cams for a few reasons. Not only are dash cams much cheaper than mirror cams, installation is significantly easier, they come with a dedicated screen, they are much smaller and can be placed freely practically anywhere in a car. For these reasons, we recommend a dash cam over a mirror cam.