If you are shopping for the best rear view mirror camera, the most important factors to consider include the video resolution, display quality, and functionality. Below, I’ve summarized my top picks based on these features. Continue reading to learn more about why they matter.
Whenever I am reversing or parking in a tight spot, I have to laugh about how hard is used to be to estimate distances safely with just the standard side and rear view mirrors. Plus, most typical mirrors have big blind spots, which increases the risk of accidents especially when backing up.
Fortunately, there are rear view mirror dash cameras that can help. Rear view mirror cameras have a lot of benefits. They offer a wider field of view, making it easier and safer to back out of your driveway, change lanes, or parallel park. The best rear view mirror cameras also record footage of the road in case of an accident. They can help protect you from liability in accidents, fraud schemes, traffic stops, and more.
And unlike other dash cams, rear view mirror-mounted dash cams do not obstruct your view on the windshield. Hence, they will not cause any legal issues for the mounting location.
With these factors in mind, I’ve put together a list of the best backup dash cams. I researched countless products and thousands of customer reviews to come up with these top picks.
To make sure you don’t spend more than you need to, I also included an overview of the most important rear view mirror cam features and factors to consider when purchasing one.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Runner-up  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
 |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Reasons to Get a Rear View Mirror Camera for Your Car
Rear view mirror cameras give you an accurate idea of the obstacles surrounding your vehicle. Thus, they can help prevent accidents and other mishaps on the road.
If you are still not convinced whether you should get a backup cam or not, read these three reasons why you might need one.
Safety
When reversing into a parking space, you might not notice people, especially children, walking behind the vehicle. Likewise, you probably cannot see other cars in your blind spot when overtaking lanes.
Fortunately, a backup camera eliminates the dangers you can otherwise get from standard mirrors. It can detect people and other obstacles near your vehicle, which prevents injuries or death.
Parking Assistance
Rear view mirror cameras can also help you park safer and quicker.
Most camera systems feature on-screen guidelines to guide you when parking. They also alert you when you’re backing up too close to obstacles.
Insurance Benefits
Car insurance companies usually offer premium discounts to vehicles with rear view mirror cameras. This is because they make driving safer.
And the safer you are, the less money these insurance companies will pay in claims every year.
In contrast, vehicles without safety features pay higher premiums.
Best Rear View Mirror Camera
With these benefits in mind, you may already by sold on picking up a rear view mirror dash cam.
To help narrow down your choices, we focused down to 5 models that have great reviews and features. You can consider getting any of these five backup cameras knowing that they are among the best on the market.
ViviLink VX510 2.5K Mirror Dash Cam – Best Overall
The ViviLink VX510 packs an array of useful features that ensure a safe and pleasant driving experience.
It boasts of 2.5K video resolution to provide a clear view of your surroundings. Together with the WDR technology, this mirror dash camera delivers bright footage, even at night. However, a few users said that video quality at night is kinda blurry.
The VX510 also includes a loop recording setting. It continuously captures video files and makes room for the newest recording.
Meanwhile, the G-Sensor can instantly lock the footage once it detects bumps and mishaps on the road. It guarantees that your clip would not be overwritten on loop recording.
To save battery life, it automatically enters standby mode when the car is turned off. But you also have the option to record events for 10 minutes in park mode.
What’s more, the VX510 has a voice control feature. It recognizes simple commands, such as “take a photo” or “video start,” for added convenience and security of the drivers. It also has full touch screen capabilities.
Considering all these benefits, we chose the ViviLink VX510 as the best rear-view mirror dash cam. We highly recommend buying one for your safety on the road.
Specifications:
Max Video Capture Resolution: 2.5K (2560 x 1440)
Display Screen Size: 10-inch
Viewing Angle: 330° Combined
Dimensions: 10.1 x 3.8 x 1.5 inches
VanTop H610 2.5K Mirror Dash Cam – Best for Night Driving
If you are looking for a dash cam with excellent night capabilities, consider the VanTop H610.
It features an advanced Sony Starvis sensor that captures sharp video at low light conditions. It is the ideal choice for those who drive at night.
The VanTop dash cam also offers ultra HD resolution at 2.5K, similar to the ViviLink.
Plus, there is a 170° adjustable front lens and 160° rear lens for a total of 330° viewing angle. Thus, this dash cam reduces blind spots and captures wider scenes of the road.
On top of all these features, the H610 backup camera includes a built-in G-sensor. It can start capturing video after detecting collisions. It will then lock that footage so it would not be overwritten during loop recording.
The G-sensor also has a parking mode and monitor function. It automatically turns on and records video if any vibration or movement is detected. Thus, it helps protect your car in case of thievery.
However, a few users pointed out that the rear camera’s backup guidelines are inaccurate. They had a hard time gauging the right distance when parking in tight spaces.
Nevertheless, the VanTop H610 is still among the best rear view mirror cameras on the market.
Specifications:
Max Video Capture Resolution: 2.5K (2560 x 1440)
Display Screen Size: 10-inch
Viewing Angle: 330° Combined
Dimensions: 10.1 x 3.8 x 1.5 inches
TOGUARD CE80 Mirror Dash Camera – Best 4K Dash Cam
Do you want a rear view mirror dash cam that captures objects in high-definition from long distances? The TOGUARD CE80 might be the device you are looking for.
It uses the Sony Starvis sensor and pairs it with an F1.8 large aperture six-glass lens. The result is ultra-high resolution videos in 4K and Full HD. As such, it can record license plates and road signs at a distance without a problem.
The dual-lens itself offers a combined 330° adjustable wide view. It captures more of the scene on the road and reduces blind spots.
What’s more, the CE80 is a smart dash cam with built-in voice commands. These eliminate the need to touch the screen to change settings. Thus, it provides a more comfortable and safer driving experience.
And unlike other products on our list, this backup camera includes a GPS module track for additional security. This feature allows you to know when and where the events happened while watching the recorded footage.
Although most customer reviews for the CE80 were positive, several users wished they could manually switch to a rear view display.
They also mentioned that the voice control feature can be improved as it picks up radio sounds instead of their voices.
With that said, the TOGUARD CE80 still provides useful features for those who want a reliable dash cam.
Specifications:
Max Video Capture Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
Display Screen Size: 12-inch
Viewing Angle: 330° Combined
Dimensions: 11.2 x 2.8 x 0.6 inch
AUTO-VOX T2 Back Up Camera Kit – Best Wired Dash Cam
The AUTO-VOX T2 is a wired transmission dash camera. It receives a more stable signal than wireless devices, resulting in sharp videos without delay.
The T2 also delivers clear videos in low-light conditions, thanks to the included six LED lights. These automatically turn on at night for brighter footage.
Moreover, this camera system offers a 170-degree wide angle of view. It helps you see more obstacles on the road and reduces blind spots.
There are also three different sizes of bracket adapters in the package, which are compatible with most cars.
Several customers even liked the T2 dash cam for its easy installation via the included wire.
However, a few reviews critiqued the screen quality during the daytime. Besides being small, it also causes glare and blurred image display.
Nevertheless, the AUTO-VOX T2 is still a great option for those who want a wired solution for accurate video quality.
Specifications:
Max Video Capture Resolution: 480P (852 x 480)
Display Screen Size: 4.3-inch
Viewing Angle: 170° (Rear only)
Dimensions: 10.55 x 3.23 x 0.91 inches
DoHonest S01 1080p HD Back Up Camera – Best Budget Dash Cam
At less than $40, the DoHonest S01 is among the cheapest rearview mirror cameras on the market.
Despite its lower price, it still includes several useful features.
First, this dash camera has a multi-function smart switch. It enables you to toggle between different settings with just a touch of a few buttons.
The backup camera itself includes six glass lenses with a 150° rear view angle. It provides a wide view of your surroundings, which helps eliminate blind spots. Plus, it comes with six LED lights to increase night vision capability.
What’s more, the S01 dash cam offers a 4.3-inch LCD screen with a clear display. It can attach to your rear view mirror or a flat surface dashboard.
Despite these benefits, there are a few negative reviews.
Several users said that this dash cam is not waterproof. Some also said that the mounting adhesive did not stick properly, causing the device to fall. You get what you pay for.
But considering its low price, the DoHonest S01 might still be worth considering. Just manage your expectations since it is on the lower end of the spectrum.
Specifications:
Max Video Capture Resolution: HD (1280 x 720)
Display Screen Size: 4.3-inch
Viewing Angle: 149° (Rear only)
Dimensions: 7.32 x 5.28 x 4.41 inches
Things to Look For in a Rear View Mirror Camera
With so many rear view mirror dash cams, it can be difficult to choose one that suits your needs and preferences.
Below, we list down the qualities to consider in a backup camera to help you make the right purchasing decision.
Video Resolution
Resolution determines how accurate and clear the footage will be. The higher the resolution, the more detailed the video is.
Since you want to use the camera footage as evidence in case of accidents, it is best to look for a backup camera that can record 720p HD.
Fortunately, most rear view mirror dash cams on our list can record 2.5K and up to 4K resolution. They will help you recognize car models, license plate numbers, and even faces on the road.
Display Quality
Almost all rear view mirror dash cams include a little screen for displaying the video, but not every one shows the same clear image.
Hence, you must also consider the display resolution of the screen.
You want to ensure that it can record at the same video quality. This makes it easier to see the obstacles surrounding your car.
Functionality
When buying a dash camera, you must consider the ways you plan to use it.
Ask yourself if you need a device that can automatically turn on and off. Maybe you also like to rotate and change the angles of the camera. Do you need a full touch screen display? What about voice control capability?
Depending on your personal preference, you can choose a dash cam with one or all of these features.
If you want to have them all, consider the ViviLink VX510. It has a touch screen display with an additional voice function. Plus, it automatically activates the parking aid system once you engage the reverse gear. These features make it easier and more comfortable to drive.
Night Vision
You cannot always rely on a cheap dash cam and street lights in case an accident happens at night. Chances are the footage will turn out blurry.
You may want a backup camera with excellent night capabilities.
Design
The best rear view mirror cameras should not obstruct your view when driving. In general, they should be the same size as your mirror and perfectly fit on the mount. These help you see the screen display and the road ahead without a problem.
Durability
Nobody wants to buy a rear view mirror camera that will only last months of driving.
Look for a device with sturdy construction material. Skip the plastic ones as they will probably break down in a month or two.
You may also want to consider buying a shockproof or even waterproof dash cam. It will ensure the durability of your device, especially if you plan to mount it outside your car.
Cost
Finally, you need to consider your budget. Ask yourself how much you want to spend on a dash camera.
If you need something simple, you can go with a cheaper backup camera like the DoHonest S01.
But if you want the best rear view mirror camera on the market, you might consider paying more. This is because a dash cam with high resolution, dual-lens, low-light capability, and other advanced features come at a price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backup cameras required by law?
Yes, federal regulation in 2018 requires all new vehicles to have backup cameras. These devices will help prevent accidents when reversing their car.
Drivers with old cars can get a separate backup camera to ensure everyone’s safety on the road.
How do I install rear view mirror dash cams?
In general, it is easy to install a rear view mirror dash cam.
Some models require you to mount the camera on the license plate using a screwdriver. Other dash cams go to the bumper cover or rear trim piece by drilling a hole.
When in doubt, check the manual for the installation specifics. Manufacturers will provide them after you make a purchase.
Which is better: wired or wireless backup camera?
Backup cameras can either have a wired or wireless system. Choosing between the two will depend on your needs. Thus, what might be better for you is not ideal for someone else and vice versa.
As its name suggests, a wired backup camera connects directly to the monitor via a wire. It delivers a clear signal and higher-quality video in real-time. The only downside is that it can be difficult to install, especially in longer vehicles like trucks.
Meanwhile, a wireless backup camera is more convenient and easy to install. All you need to do is attach the monitor and dash cam to your car. However, it is susceptible to radio frequency interference. Thus, it does not always provide an accurate display, which can be dangerous while reversing.
Conclusion
There you have it: the five best rear view mirror cameras on the market.
Our top choice is the ViviLink VX510. We love how it comes with several useful features for the convenience and safety of the drivers. These include loop recording, G-sensor, and automatic standby mode, among many others. It even delivers a 2.5K resolution video to ensure a clear view of your surroundings.
Check out this link to check the latest price for VX510 camera today!