Among the essentials any driver must have in their car - and yes, we're talking things you really cannot live without - in-car cameras are high on the priority list.
After all, there's really no telling what might happen on the road. In the unfortunate situation that the need for an insurance claim arises, the default action is to reach into these cameras as the first line of defence.
Technology is constantly shifting, though, and in-car cameras are growing ever more sophisticated and advanced as the times change. Here, we take a look at six different dashcams that should be on your shortlist for your next ride!
1. BlackVue DR970X-2CH LTE
If you've been on the road for a good few years, BlackVue's name shouldn't sound unfamiliar. Established in 2007 by Korean manufacturer, Pittasoft, it has gone on to become one of the standard-setters of the industry in years since.
The core specifications of the full-HD (high definition) BlackVue DR970X-2CH LTE are impressive: An 8-megapixel front 4K Ultra HD camera, and 2.1-megapixel rear camera with a Sony STARVIS image sensor. Specifically, the Ultra HD front sensor captures four times as many pixels as in Full HD.
As the LTE portion of its name suggestions, however, a built-in Nano SIM card reader for 4G LTE enables the camera to connect to BlackVue Cloud, a free add-on connectivity service. Important videos can be backed up to the Cloud remotely; you can even play and download video, or check on your car – no matter the time, and no matter where you are.
With a built-in 5G Dual Band WiFi, settings can be easily adjusted for transferring videos straight to your phone, via the dedicated BlackVue App.
Distributed by: Wow! Gadgets Pte Ltd
Contact number(s): 84996533 / 61009691
2. BlackVue DR590X-2CH
The BlackVue DR590X-2CH may not pack the same level of capturing ability as its sibling, but still has enough firepower with its dual full HD cameras. Its built-in WiFi also allows for the same ease of transferring bvideos via the BlackVue app.
This compact camera's secret weapon, however, is its status as a 'stealth dashcam'. The DR590X-2CH boasts a special Parking Mode natively, which can be hardwired to your vehicle's fuse panel, and is switched automatically when the ignition is turned off. (You can adjust the voltage cutoff and timer via the BlackVue app.)
What Parking Mode provides is extra peace of mind when - for example - you are fast asleep at night and away from your car. Recording is activated when motion or impact is detected, and you'll get voice notifications if 'Events' were recorded while you are away.
As a promise of stealth, all LED indicators are turned off in Parking Mode for the most part, too. Only the recording LED indicator facing the interior of the vehicle will blink when motion or impact is detected. To minimise potential errors, automatic reboots are scheduled daily.
Distributed by: Wow! Gadgets Pte Ltd
Contact number(s): 84996533 / 61009691
3. Marbella KR9S+
Designed in Singapore, and manufactured in Korea, Marbella says its car cameras aim for the "highest standards" with features that meet different needs and requirements for local car owners.
Those who feel more assured with a screen on their dashcams should like the Marbella KR9S+, which is equipped with a 3.5-inch immersive and functional display. The KR9S+ is also a dashcam with WiFi functionality, and like the previous camera, boasts a Parking Mode for extra assurance.
One of its calling cards, however, is its energy efficiency: It's claimed to have the lowest electrical consumption of (of 2CH/250mAh) in the market. This allows it to run in Parking mode for up to 48 hours without an external battery pack.
Distributed by: Maka GPS Technologies
Contact number(s): 91331596 / 62760889
4. Marbella KR8S Pro
If screens are lower on your priority list, but you still enjoy the unique qualities from the Marbella brand, the Marbella KR8S Pro might be the answer.
The Marbella KR8S Pro is a dual full HD dashcam that boasts a 3-megapixel Sony STARVIS CMOS imaging sensor on its front camera. This provides sharper, clearer and more defined video quality throughout day and night recordings.
Additionally, the Marbella KR8S Pro boasts the exact same level of low electrical consumption that the KR9S+ manages. Similarly, it uses a specially-licensed TAT format-free technology. This allows it to record videos in a .TAT format, which eliminates the need to manually format your microSD card, and thus reduces potential damage during long hours of recording.
Distributed by: Maka GPS Technologies
Contact number(s): 91331596 / 62760889
5. Hella DR 850 Pro
For those that are partial towards European technology, Hella is an international brand headquartered in North-Western Germany.
The Hella DR 850 Pro is also a dual full HD camera with built-in WiFi functionality for seamless transfers, and playing back of footage on a smartphone. Hella has likewise incorporated its own iteration of Format Free Technology into the system, with a free-flowing recording system eliminating formatting hassles.
Drivers that would prefer to have a broader field of vision, however, will be particularly delighted by the DR 850 Pro's capturing capabilities. The camera has a 145-degree wide visibility angle, which allows it to capture a wider view of the road that effectively reduces blind spots while maximising visibility.
Distributed by: Rimbunan Kuasa (S) Pte Ltd
Contact number(s): 69711688
6. iRoad X6
Our final dash cam on the list also has Korean technology woven into it. The iRoad X6 is a dual 1080p full HD dashcam, which boasts wide angle capturing capabilities across both its front and cameras too (at 140-degrees).
Like many other cameras on this list, it utilises a format-free technology - dubbed Format Free 2.0 by iRoad. This relies on an IVS file system, which saves recordings automatically in the main memory unit that does not require regular formatting. An automatic reboot function further guarantees the safety of data, and the longevity of the device.
One of the unique features of the iRoad X6, however, is the High Dynamic Range promised for videos capture. For better clarity and contrast across footage, real HDR technology is integrated to eliminate light blurring at night. This produces clear and vivid recordings even in challenging lighting conditions, such as when a scene is backlit, or when in tunnels.
Even cooler, however, is its in-built suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) - especially useful for older cars. By way of audio and visual alerts, the camera is able to function as a Lane Departure Warning System, and send out Front Collison Warnings and Front Vehicle Departure warnings to the driver.
Distributed by: Corvit International Pte Ltd
Contact number(s): 66590141
Get these car cameras from the Sgcarmart e-Shop!
If you're keen on getting one of these cameras, but don't know where to start, fret not.
Whether it's BlackVue, Marbella, Hella, iRoad, or even other major brands you're looking at, the cool gadgets from these names can be browsed and purchased on the Sgcarmart e-Shop!
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