Key Takeaways
- A GoPro can be used as a dash cam, providing high-quality video, but it lacks dash cam-specific features and has limited battery life.
- They are light weight, have good image stabilization, and effective night video recording.
- However, they are expensive, not ideal for dashboard mounting, and have a short battery life.
- Instead, dedicated dash cams offer more relevant features like longer battery life, internal storage, parking mode, and safety alerts, which GoPros lack.
Pros of Using a GoPro as a Dashcam
One of the things making GoPro so popular is its marketing strategy. Even just reciting the name is fun to do.
But several things stand out that make the GoPro camera an easy choice for those looking for a dash cam.
- Lightweight: the GoPro models are all marketed as cameras that “won’t weigh you down.” Given this, a GoPro suction cup mount would do the trick to keep your camera in place for a front or rear camera.
- Image stabilization: the GoPro cameras are great action cameras equipped with video stabilizers. Dashcam footage will remain steady and easy to view later, despite any bumps you may encounter.
- Great for night video recording: The Hero10 model boasts the ability to record in low-lit environments, making nighttime driving just as good a time as any to record your driving.
Cons of Using a GoPro as a Dashcam
- Price: While handy and efficient, the GoPro is a spendy choice. The cheapest model, the Hero8, brings a price tag of $279 before shipping and tax. Those looking for a practical but inexpensive option may not find what they’re looking for here.
- Intent: While your GoPro cam may include a GoPro mount, they are not conducive to being placed on a dashboard. You may have to get creative on securing your camera in your vehicle.
- Battery: Full-time rideshare drivers may be wary of choosing the GoPro as their camera of choice, given that their most elaborate model only boasts a battery life of 4 hours unless you use a USB cable to keep it charging.
Conclusion: Should You Use a GoPro as a Dashcam?
We must always weigh the pros and cons before deciding which product to choose. While it offers better video quality features than other dash cams may, you might want to explore more criteria before marrying yourself to the GoPro.
I personally would not use this as a dash cam. There are so many other options out there that would better serve drivers in the long-run.
What Useful Dash Cam Features is a GoPro Missing?
1. 2 Channel Functionality
Sometimes what we need to record is behind us. To capture what happens in both the front and rear of the vehicle, you’d need to order two separate GoPro cameras.
Purchasing two cameras is both expensive and impractical for drivers. Instead, you’d be wise to seek options featuring 2-channel functionality- meaning you receive a front and rear-facing camera in your order.
2. Simpler Wiring
While the GoPro does not require any wires to be connected while in use, it would be wise to have a charging cable plugged in to keep your camera rolling.
However, this puts a wire in your line of sight, potentially causing additional distractions on the road. Other dashboard camera options feature fewer wires, becoming safer choices.
3. Motion Detector
The GoPro records continuously until turned off, which may not always be what you need. Many dash cams feature a motion sensor that begins recording when the camera detects a change in light or new objects appearing and stops when motion ceases.
4. Storage
Each GoPro option includes a 32GB SD card to store video. If you desire a higher storage SD card, you must buy that separately and in addition to the card that already comes with the camera.
While other dash cam options also require SD cards, some feature internal storage, alleviating the need for SD cards.
5. Battery Life
As previously mentioned, the best battery life offered by a GoPro model is four hours. While this is nice, it may be wise to choose a camera that is built with or includes a battery lasting a more realistic length of time for driving.
6. Parking Mode
Parking mode is a plus for a dash cam.
The feature acts as a parking monitor, allowing the camera to begin recording when visual or physical motion detection occurs when the car is parked or if the ignition is off.
If anything should happen to or around your vehicle while you’re away, it automatically saves to the memory card for you.
7. Safety Alerts
Several dash cams come with safety alerts such as detecting collisions, alerting you when you leave lane lines, and so much more. Some also offer voice control, which helps keep your hands on the wheel while still operating your camera.
How To Use Your GoPro as a Dash Cam
To use your GoPro as a dash cam, first, fix a suction cup mount to either your windshield or dashboard. Securely attach the GoPro to this mount. Adjust its position to ensure maximum visibility of the road when driving.
While the GoPro has a battery life of a few hours, it’s best to keep it connected to a power source during your drive for continuous recording. If the camera becomes loose or shifts position while driving, safely pull over to readjust it.
If the issue continues, consider getting a more stable mount for better security.
Wrapping Up
In short, the need for a reliable dash cam is evident. Drivers need to be able to protect themselves in every way possible.
If GoPro is your method of choice, we support you in your endeavors! However, we strongly recommend the Nexar Pro as this seems to be the most straightforward and reliable camera on the market today.
If driving with confidence is crucial to you, getting a dependable dash cam is a great place to start!
