Dashcams

How we test

We install each dashcam to a car, then drive around an urban route at night and during the day. Back in our lab we conduct a technical assessment of the performance and assess the quality of recordings the cameras capture. We also consider the ease of use of each dashcam.

Overall score breakdown

Our overall score for dashcams includes:

• picture quality (80%)
• ease of use (20%).

Picture quality

Picture quality is tested while the vehicle is stationary and moving. We look for clarity of image, detail, any blurring from vibration, and how well colours are represented. We include a daylight test (on a sunny day) and a night test (with the subject lit by headlights). We also measure the angle of view, including vertical and horizontal coverage. More weight is placed on the daylight picture quality.

Ease of use

We assess:

• installation
• set-up
• ease of mounting and removing the camera
• adjusting settings
• viewing recordings.

How we choose what we test

We aim to test brands and models you’re likely to see when you head to the shops, plus some you might not be aware of.

Before we buy anything, we do our research: we visit stores, both online and physical; we talk to experts and consumers; and we ask manufacturers about their range of models. We want to capture new developments in the market and make sure the products we test will be available after we publish our results.

We then compile a list of models and head out to purchase them, just as any consumer would. Where it means we can publish on upcoming models not yet in stores, we will accept samples to test from distributors.