Which reversing camera to buy

A few hundred dollars spent on a reversing camera could save a life. A car reversing camera kit includes a camera that you attach to the rear of the car and a monitor for dashboard viewing. When the reverse gear is selected the monitor powers up, showing the camera vision. The downside of reversing cameras can be the limited angle. If an obstruction is behind either rear wheel the camera may not be able to detect it, so it's best to combine a reversing camera with a proximity sensor that will make a sound as you approach an obstruction.

If you're buying a new car and want to know how it rates for reversing visibility, check the IAG Reversing Visibility Index for test results on a range of vehicles. Look for a wide viewing angle. Wider angles often mean lower picture quality, but this is less important than seeing the obstructions in the first place. Most cameras are round and attach to the bumper bar or license plate, others sit in the back window or clip on the rear view mirror.

Some flexibility with the camera is useful to get the best angle. It can be used front or back; by default the image is mirror flipped but you can choose to flip it normal when you fit it by cutting a wire.

The reversing guides can also be adjusted after fitting via buttons on the screen, though it could be easier to use. The camera mount is designed for the standard screw holes found on US license plates and all similar jurisdictions , giving the option of tucking the mounting plate behind the plate for a more discrete appearance or for Americans the option to obscure your State name if you prefer. The screen itself is a bit contrasty, but plenty easy to see, especially given the price.

This is a simple and cheap solution which can obtain its power via the cigarette lighter and then needs only one cable to be run to the camera, which clips over the license place. The backup camera itself is pleasingly discrete, not only IP68 waterproof but can be fitted without drilling but just attaching to the top of your number plate. Manual switching may offend the sensibilities of car tech enthusiasts, and changing settings is far from simple, but many car and van drivers like having the ability to keep the view on in other driving situations, so for some that might be a plus.

At that height, the degrees gives a great view, with the lines turned on or off. Your mechanic, rather than a dealer with a code, will be all you need though.

Read more guides: The Best camera phones today Best front and rear dashcams Best Uber dash cams Best borescopes and inspection cameras Best thermal imaging camera Best indoor security cameras Best outdoor security cameras The 10 best action cameras The best helmet cameras The best baby camera monitors.

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones.

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. Included in this guide: 1. Auto-Vox V5 Pro. The elegant in-mirror option with two-way dash cam and GPS tagging. Specifications Video quality: xpx monitor. Viewing angle: degrees. Integrated GPS: No. Activated: Button.

Connectivity: Wireless. Night vision: Yes. Integrated GPS: Yes. Screen: 9. Activated: Automatic. Connectivity: Wired. Reasons to avoid - More expensive than some. Yada BehindSight BT Best backup camera for pickups with no cable run from back to front. Specifications Video quality: p monitor. Fortunatley we do not have to do this very often. To look after your camera we recommend you avoid pressure washing them.

Corrosion can be a problem on some cameras. The bullet style cameras tend to be extruded alluminium which in our experience cope very well with the winter salt. On our bracket style cameras we use a shell with a high almunium content. They cost a little more, but it does help limit corrosiont. We also use stainless steel to make the brackets where possible.

It helps to wipe them clean and wax the outer body on a regular basis. If the paint does get damaged, then in winter when there is salt on the road they will corrode. Repairing the damage quickly will greatly extend the life of the camera.

The cheap heavy cameras with a high zinc content will begin to corrode the first time it rains. If you wish to confirm this there are plenty of Chinese sellers who have them on ebay! Corrosion is a issue that affects all reversing cameras as the photograph above demonstrates.

You can pay for expensive cameras from a well known brand and they can still corrode if not looked after. The camera had been fitted 18 months. We are working to solve the issue but plastic camera leak, anti-corrosion coatings do not work and fibreglass housings tend to accelerate the corrosion as it traps in moisture. We often get asked how well our cameras stand up to vibration.

Below is our test vehicle! They spend the day getting bounced around along with members of the public. You can get to ride on the Monster Truck at many of the motor racing events around the coutry.

Advanced Search Colour:. Product Finder Category:. Advice on buying reversing cameras Most people buying a reversing camera will have very little knowledge about them. The reversing camera sensor This is the most important part of the reversing camera as it controls the quality of the image the camera can produce. Camera angle The specifications for cameras will include a range of data most of which you can ignore. Types of connection There has never been a standard connector produced for a reversing camera.

Wiring arrangements The reversing camera systems based on the 4 pin aviation connector are the easiest to wire is as they are powered directly from the monitor. Where to place a camera The ideal place for a reversing camera is up high angle angled down.

Vibration testing We often get asked how well our cameras stand up to vibration. Featured Products Quick View. Add to Basket. Quick View. Top Sellers Quick View.

Delivery information. More information Advice on buying reversing cameras Radio interference Fault finding.