Best Smallest Dash Cam
Ben Wells is a tech enthusiast specializing in cameras and GPS devices. He has a keen interest in reviewing dashcams, navigators, and other useful car...
Introducing the world of tiny yet powerful dash cams that discreetly capture every moment on the road. After extensive research, we’ve discovered the best and smallest dash cams, perfect for covert recording without drawing any attention. These little wonders have the ability to document the happenings in front of your vehicle, providing solid evidence in case of suspicious or dishonest behaviour from other drivers or pedestrians. Driving with a small dash cam grants you peace of mind without obstructing your view. This ensures you stay clear of false insurance claims and pesky traffic challans. It’s important to note that dash cams are completely legal in the UK, with proper placement being the only concern. Bulky cameras not only attract unwanted attention but also consume valuable space and hinder the driver’s visibility.
The Highway Code explicitly prohibits view-blocking dash cams, imposing fines of £200 for improper installation. However, discreet dashboard cameras offer an ideal solution, allowing you to record without obstructing your vision. The recent amendment to the code includes the stipulation that dash cams should not be placed within the 40mm region swept by windscreen wipers. Nonetheless, mounting on the passenger side, upper middle, or down to the dashboard remains permissible. It’s worth mentioning that drivers using dash cams are encouraged to inform others of their presence, but this requirement primarily applies to taxis, work cars, and private hire drivers. With these miniature dash cams, you’ll delve into a world of inconspicuous recording, ensuring a comprehensive record of road events without raising eyebrows.
BestB is trustworthy because our expert reviewers put in a lot of time and effort to test and compare different products and services, allowing you to make informed decisions about what is best for you. Find out How We Review
Best Smallest Dash Cams
Garmin Mini 2
The Best Smallest Dash Cam UK
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Sensor: 1080P FHD | Field of View (FOV): 140-degree | Camera Type: Front | Screen: No | GPS: Built-in | Wireless: Built-in | G-sensor: Built-in | Voice Control: Yes |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Wide 140-degree field of view clearly
✓Voice-controlled and Virtually unnoticed design
✓Can upload to the secure Garmin Video Vault
✓Parking safety, incident detection with location GPS
✓Garmin Drive app for live view
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Lack of screen
✗Setup only through the app
✗Garmin Cloud is still a paid service
I had the opportunity to try out the previous-generation Garmin Mini, but unfortunately, I lost it. However, the new Garmin Mini 2 has caught my attention as an upgrade due to its same keychain size. It has also been highly praised by several reviewers as the ultimate discreet car camera. Having personally used this remarkable mini DVR, I can vouch for its incredible features and confidently declare it superior to other models in terms of size. Resembling a car key, I award it the title of the best smallest dash camera and it stays hidden on the windscreen on my work car.
With its advanced night vision capabilities, this dash cam excels in low-light conditions, ensuring that even your nighttime drives are captured with remarkable clarity. Additionally, the built-in G-sensor technology detects sudden movements or impacts, automatically saving and protecting the relevant footage. The Garmin Mini 2 also impresses with its time-lapse function, allowing you to condense hours of footage into a shorter, more digestible format.
Moreover, the camera’s mobile app enables seamless control through your phone, offering a user-friendly experience. And let’s not forget the voice control feature, which adds another level of convenience by responding to your commands. The wireless connectivity of this device is truly a game-changer. With Wi-Fi capabilities, you can effortlessly upload videos to the Garmin cloud or share them with friends and family, enhancing the overall sharing experience.
What I Liked
The compact size and convenience of the Garmin Mini 2 make it incredibly portable and easy to use.
What I Disliked
The limited 1080p resolution might not satisfy those seeking higher video quality. But what I dislike the most is the hefty service fees for Garmin cloud storage.
What Makes it the Best Smallest Dash Cam
The combination of wireless connectivity, advanced features, and user-friendly controls sets the Garmin Mini 2 apart as the top choice for a discreet car camera in the UK.
BlackVue DR900X-2CH 4K
4K small dash cam front and rear
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Sensor: 4K (front) + 1080P FHD (rear) | Field of View (FOV): 162-degree + 140-degree | Camera Type: Front and Rear | Screen: No | GPS: Built-in | Wireless: Built-in | G-sensor: Built-in | Voice Control: Yes |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Complete setup of a premium dash cam
✓4G LTE ready for data SIM card
✓Can share live view remotely with an active internet connection
✓Built-in speaker with voice alarm
✓Onboard GPS adds location and speed data
✓Multiple recording modes with efficient decoding
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Expensive package
✗The app needs an update
✗Needs a big storage SD card
The BlackVue DR900X-2CH 4K dash cam offers an incredible experience on the road. I was amazed by the crystal-clear video quality captured by its front camera, which records in stunning 4K Ultra HD. The wide 162-degree lens provided a broad perspective, ensuring that no details were missed. In addition, the rear camera with its 1080p Sony starves sensor delivered smooth and high-quality 60 fps video footage.
Setting up the DR900X-2CH was a breeze, and its compact size made it suitable for any car. Once installed, the dash cam automatically initiated recording as soon as the vehicle started moving, giving me peace of mind knowing that all important moments were captured. The built-in GPS tracking allowed me to keep track of my route and speed, adding an extra layer of information to the footage.
One of the standout features of this dash cam is its parking mode recording. It can be configured to record in intervals of 1, 3, 5, or 10 minutes, ensuring that any incidents in parking lots are documented. The option to store the footage on either Micro SD cards up to 128GB or rely on the BlackVue cloud storage for flexibility and convenience with active internet.
What I Liked
The BlackVue DR900X-2CH is truly exceptional with its stunning 4K video quality, user-friendly installation process, and premium build quality that sets it apart. In my personal preference, it appears noticeably smaller compared to its counterpart, the DR900X Plus, which was released after this version. Both models offer similar performance capabilities while boasting an aesthetically pleasing design.
What I Disliked
As a matter of personal preference, I would advise against considering the addition of a SIM card module for the dash camera, particularly if your car does not have a separate battery pack. It is crucial to carefully consider the potential risk of draining your car’s battery versus the convenience of remote viewing. Unless you have made a substantial investment in a reliable power backup plan, it would be more prudent to prioritize preserving your car’s battery over remote viewing capabilities.
What Makes it the Best Small Dual Channel Dash Cam
The BlackVue DR900X-2CH 4K dash cam stands out due to its superior video quality, easy installation, and comprehensive recording features, making it the best choice for capturing every moment on the road. I totally recommend going for it. There’s no screen it is very discrete, and the app feels basic but robust. What makes it teh best in business, is the cloud features provide live feed from the car on my phone, great for security if there’s any impact detected, you will be notified.
Nexar Pro Dual Dash Cam
Best front and rear dash cam with night vision
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Sensor: 1080p FHD (front) + 720P HD (rear) | Field of View (FOV): 135-degree + 135-degree | Camera Type: Front and Cabin | Screen: No | GPS: Built-in | Wireless: Built-in | G-sensor: Built-in | Voice Control: Yes |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Compact dash cam with cabin recorder
✓Excellent for taxi drivers like Uber and commercial vehicles
✓Great touch night vision for the cabin view
✓Remote surveillance from your smartphone
✓G-force impact detection and location stamp
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Could add a backup unit
✗Include with low-quality SD card
The Nexar Pro dual dash cam has been an exceptional addition to my driving experience. With its high-definition recording capabilities, I can confidently monitor both the front and inside cabin of my car. The impeccable front camera lens captures stunning 1080p Full HD footage at a 135-degree angle, providing a clear and detailed view of the road ahead, while the cabin unit only reaches 720p max at 24 FPS along with 10 IR lights, and it knocks my expectations with optimal visibility in the nighttime in comparison to most expensive VIOFO A139 3 channel system. With this dashcam, I can trust that every crucial moment of my journey is documented with utmost clarity. I like the unboxing experience, it’s simple and clean and comes with leaflets that show every step of how to use and set up.
During my first-hand experience, I am absolutely thrilled with Nexar Pro dual dash cam, as it has far exceeded my expectations with its advanced prediction system, functioning akin to an AI. Notably, what sets it apart from the competition is its surprisingly affordable price, making it an ideal and future-proof choice. Its standout feature lies in its remarkable ability to capture critical moments, effortlessly detecting unusual behaviors in passing cars, and peoples, thanks to its impressive object recognition capabilities. Unlike many other dash cams that solely record collisions, this smart dash cam device ensures I am always prepared for any unforeseen incidents on the road. I must mention Nexar’s outstanding monitoring capabilities, and the sheer convenience of their app’s remote live view, which allows me to stay perpetually connected and aware of my surroundings in real-time, making it the safest option.
The Nexar Pro’s mobile app further enhances the overall experience. It offers a range of services that go beyond my initial expectations. What’s even better is that the dashcam comes with free cloud storage unlimited as they say, providing excellent value for the entire package. There are a few minor drawbacks to consider, such as the need to securely stick the interior camera to the optimal location, which can be a bit tricky, and live monitoring via phone app costs battery life. Overall, this is particularly popular among taxi and Uber drivers who heavily rely on inside cabin cameras with night vision to mitigate conflicts with passengers.
What I Liked
With superior video quality, enhanced night vision featuring real IR sensors, and the added benefit of GPS data, this dash cam provides unparalleled performance. Whether I’m driving through dimly lit streets or pitch-black highways, I can rely on this device to capture high-quality footage even in the darkest conditions.
What I Disliked
The interior camera attachment method of the Nexar Pro is not suitable for windshield mounting as it tends to juggle. It is recommended to use a stiff hanger or place it on the dashboard for more secure positioning.
What Makes it the Best Dual Dash Cam with Night Vision
Rob Clymo’s endorsement, impeccable video quality, exceptional night vision, and the inclusion of GPS data make the Nexar Pro dual dash cam a standout choice for Uber drivers seeking reliable and comprehensive recording capabilities to ensure passengers’ safety.
Thinkware F100
Best mini dash cam with phone app
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Sensor: 1080P FHD | Field of View (FOV): 135-degree | Camera Type: Front | Screen: No | GPS: No | Wireless: Built-in | G-sensor: Built-in | Voice Control: Yes |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Sony CMOS for low-light recording
✓Comfortable sleek and discrete design
✓Speed and location logging is possible
✓16GB SD card and hardwire lead included
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Single unit without a backup camera
✗Requires optional GPS antenna
The Thinkware F100 is a compact and feature-rich dash cam that I personally love for recording in high temperatures. Its built-in supercapacitor ensures continuous functionality even in extreme weather conditions, which sets it apart from battery-powered dash cams.
Recording in full 1080p HD at a wide 135-degree angle and 30 fps, the F100 captures clear and detailed footage. It even includes a 16GB SD card, although I recommend upgrading to a 64GB Micro SD card for longer recordings. Additionally, its G-sensor automatically saves footage upon detecting accidents, providing added peace of mind. The embedded parking mode is another impressive feature that records incidents when your car is parked.
In my experience, the Thinkware F100 competes favourably with other dash cams in its price range. It offers excellent value for money, combining affordability with reliable performance. The seamless integration of advanced features makes it a compelling choice for modern vehicles.
What I Liked
Reliable performance in high temperatures, impressive 1080p HD recording, and the inclusion of essential features like the G-sensor and parking mode.
What I Disliked
Limited storage capacity with the included 16GB SD card, which can be easily resolved by upgrading to a larger Micro SD card.
What Makes it the Best Mini Dash Cam with Phone App
The Thinkware F100 excels in its ability to handle extreme temperatures, its comprehensive features, and its competitive pricing, making it a top choice among small dash cams.
70Mai Dash Cam
Best budget wireless dash cam
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Sensor: 1080P FHD | Field of View (FOV): 130-degree | Camera Type: Front | Screen: No | GPS: Built-in | Wireless: Built-in | G-sensor: Built-in | Voice Control: Yes |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Great value discrete dash cam
✓Modern design for modern automobiles
✓Good video quality at 1080p
✓All safety features onboard
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Could have better 1440p resolutions
✗No bundled with a reversing camera
This is a Xiaomi dash cam, named 70Mai, and it’s really a compact and discreet one that I personally find impressive. Recording in 1080P Full HD ensures high-quality footage. Its WiFi connectivity allows for easy real-time viewing and convenient file sharing with your smartphone. This makes it the perfect dash cam for small cars and vans.
With its 130-degree angle of view, the 70Mai captures a wider area ahead, providing comprehensive coverage. The built-in G-sensor automatically saves any collisions or accidents, ensuring important footage is preserved for evidence report. But I can say, if you prefer higher 1440p resolutions, go for the 70mai Pro, and you will thank me later, yet it’s much bigger than this one and has a built-in screen.
Equipped with a Sony IMX image sensor, the basic 70Mai offers exceptional performance and captures detailed full 1080p HD resolution video. In my experience, it excels in both performance and aesthetics, With its sleek cylindrical design it hides seamlessly behind the rear view mirror, with no trace of existence. The WiFi connection and mobile app functionality are particularly noteworthy, allowing for effortless control and easy access to recorded footage.
What I Liked
High-quality 1080P Full HD recording, convenient WiFi connectivity for real-time viewing and file sharing, and the reliable performance of the Sony IMX image sensor. I like the LED ring on the side, and it blicks for notifications.
What I Disliked
A significant drawback observed during testing is the reduced brightness in low-light conditions. In most cases, the footage appears dark, but it still manages to capture the most detail. Other limitations having 64GB max card support, and a built-in 240mAh battery that does nothing.
What Makes it the Best Wireless Dash Cam on Budget
The 70Mai Dash Cam Pro stands out as the top choice among the best budget dash cameras I have had hands-on experience with within the past few years. It had a great price point of £30 at the time I bought it for myself, and it is a perfect fit for small cars and vans. Additionally, it offers useful features such as WiFi connectivity and an aesthetically pleasing design.
Nexar Beam Dash Cam
Smallest dash cam with cloud storage
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Sensor: 1080P FHD | Field of View (FOV): 135-degree | Camera Type: Front | Screen: No | GPS: Built-in | Wireless: Built-in | G-sensor: Built-in | Voice Control: Yes |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Nexar’s most compact dashboard camera
✓Free cloud backup, unlimited time
✓Quick help with insurance claims
✓Share live footage of the drive on your smartphone
REASONS TO AVOID
✗May require a backup camera for rear footage
✗The camera chamber could fit a tiny screen
Nexar recently launched the 6th generation of its Beam dash cam, and I must say, I’m impressed! The new model comes packed with exciting features and upgrades. One of the standout improvements is the addition of WiFi and GPS capabilities, allowing for seamless connectivity and accurate tracking of your location and speed.
What sets this dash cam apart is its compact size and ability to record high-quality 1080P video at 30 frames per second. This ensures that you capture every detail on the road, providing clear evidence in case of any incidents or accidents.
The inclusion of a G-sensor is a thoughtful addition. It detects collisions, ensuring that any impact is recorded and stored securely. This feature is crucial when dealing with insurance claims, as it provides irrefutable evidence of what transpired. Installing the Beam dash cam is a breeze. You can either attach it to your windshield or dashboard using the suction cup mount that comes with it, or you can opt for the adhesive pad to securely place it on your dashboard.
What I Liked
The Nexar Beam dash cam’s emergency protocol, activated by a simple button tap, is a lifesaver. It automatically generates comprehensive post-collision reports, alleviating the stress of dealing with insurance claims.
What I Disliked
Although the nighttime video quality is excellent, it would have been even better if Nexar implemented a higher resolution sensor like 2K or 4K.
What Makes it the Best Smallest Dash Cam with Cloud Storage
The combination of WiFi, GPS, and unlimited cloud storage truly sets the Nexar Beam apart from its competitors. These features ensure seamless connectivity, accurate tracking, and peace of mind knowing that your recordings are securely stored in the cloud.
Peztio Full HD 1080P
Best value hidden dash camera UK
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Sensor: 1080P FHD, 720p HD | Field of View (FOV): 170-degree | Camera Type: Front | Screen: No | GPS: Built-in | Wireless: Built-in | G-sensor: Built-in | Voice Control: Yes |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Tiny and unobstructed design dash cam
✓Built-in WiFi 2.4G wireless
✓Small size with a large camera lens of F2.0
✓Wide 170 degrees FOV
✓Two recording modes 1080p or 720p HD
REASONS TO AVOID
✗very small screen to notice key details
✗No adjustment for camera angle
By name, this is Peztio Full HD 1080P dash cam that offers a basic value for money hardware that is capable of capturing daily drive, blending seamlessly into your car’s interior. With its unusual design, there is a screen, that lets you know when it is recording.
Having personally used this hidden gem, I was amazed by its advanced Novatek 96658 chip, guaranteeing smooth video decoding with exceptional details, making every moment crystal clear and perfect for reliving on your TV or laptop. However, its bright LED annoys me during nighttime, leaving me to change its position.
What sets this mini dash cam apart is its convenient Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling the effortless transfer of footage to your mobile phone, so no more hassle with cables. I can say, that Peztio Full HD 1080P is a workable and nice little camera for a low budget under £50.
What I Liked
Good 1080P footage quality at 30 frames per second and discreet design, that is nicely built for the price.
What I Disliked
The SOS button lacks precision and WiFi connectivity is very slow, especially when downloading on your phone from a distance.
What Makes Peztio Full HD 1080P the Best Value Hidden Dash Cam
The seamless integration, powerful chip, and basic wireless convenience make the Peztio Full HD 1080P dash cam an affordable choice for capturing your journeys with basic features.
Cobra IP200 Dash Camera
Cheapest tiny dash cam UK
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Sensor: 1080P FHD | Field of View (FOV): 120-degree | Camera Type: Front | Screen: 1.5-inches display | GPS: Built-in | Wireless: Built-in | G-sensor: Built-in | Voice Control: Yes |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Simple features for simple peoples
✓Currently the cheapest 1080p dash cam
✓Very sharp quality for its little retro design
✓Easy control keys on the device
✓Can bare high heat in summers
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Better replace 4GB SD card with 32GB class 10 TF card
✗Outdated design but works as it meant to be
Introducing the Cobra IP200 dash cam, a hidden gem on a limited budget that I’ve personally come to appreciate. While it may not cater to everyone’s needs, it specifically targets individuals who are on a tight budget and cannot look over expensive cameras. As someone with expertise in the field, I understand the importance of finding an affordable solution without compromising quality. That’s why I was pleasantly surprised by the Cobra IP200. The design is compact, yet it has a 1.5-inch screen making it a rare dash cam in the realm of budget-friendly options.
Capturing your journeys in crisp 1080p resolution, the IP200 ensures every detail is recorded with clarity. With its integrated G-Sensor, I was impressed by how it automatically saves footage upon detecting sudden movements or impacts, providing valuable evidence when you need it most. One advantage of the Cobra IP200 is that it includes a 4GB microSD memory card, allowing you to start recording right away, even on a limited budget.
While the Cobra IP200 may not have all the advanced features found in more expensive models, it effectively serves its purpose. It provides the essential video evidence required to protect your insurance claims and maintain a clean driving record, all while considering your budgetary constraints. Even if you don’t have the means to invest in a pricier option, you can still enhance its capabilities by adding a larger SD card. This device is more than sufficient to provide the necessary coverage and peace of mind.
What I Liked
Cheapest among all, this is a discreet camera with a functional screen.
What I Disliked
The limited storage capacity of the Cobra IP200 may require frequent data management unless you are willing to invest in a larger SD card with ample storage space. However, it’s a couple-year-old model to its competition.
What Makes it the Cheapest tiny dash cam UK
With a long history, the Cobra IP200 dash cam has become more affordable compared to its competition, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget. It delivers reliable performance and essential video evidence, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious buyers seeking peace of mind on the road.
Check More Similar Options:
- Best Mirror Dash Cam UK
- Sat Nav with Dash Cam
- Best Car Reversing Camera
- Best High-Temperature Dash Cam
- Best Dual Dash Cam Under 100
- Best Sat Nav for Europe
- Best Sat Nav for Motorhome
- Best Dash Cam Under 100
How We Selected the Smallest Dash Cameras
I personally put every piece of hardware to the test along with my team. Together we understand the importance of finding the best dash cameras that not only deliver top-notch performance but also seamlessly integrate into any vehicle without drawing unnecessary attention. Our selection process for the smallest dash cameras involves several key criteria, ensuring we bring you the most discreet and efficient options on the market. At our testing facility, we go the extra mile to ensure that the dash cameras we recommend meet your specific needs. Let me share our personalized experience in evaluating each criterion:
Small Size that Fit Discreetly in Any Vehicle
During our testing process, we meticulously sought out dash cameras with compact and sleek designs. We installed these cameras in various vehicles, ranging from small cars to larger vans, to assess their fit and integration. Our goal was to find cameras that seamlessly blended into the car’s interior, avoiding any distraction to the driver and minimizing the risk of theft.
Appealing Aesthetics
Understanding the importance of aesthetics, we handpicked dash cameras that exude modernity and elegance. As drivers ourselves, we appreciate the value of a dash cam that complements the interior rather than standing out as an odd addition. Our team evaluated various models, looking for those that felt like a natural part of the car’s dashboard.
WiFi Connectivity for Mobile App
As tech enthusiasts, we recognize the convenience of WiFi connectivity in modern dash cameras. To ensure a smooth and seamless user experience, we tested the WiFi capabilities of each camera. From easy connection to your smartphone to the convenience of managing footage and adjusting settings remotely, we prioritized cameras that offered top-notch mobile app integration.
Well Priced for Small Budget
Being conscious of budget constraints, we kept affordability as a key factor in our selection process. We understand that not everyone has a large budget for a dash cam, so we focused on finding options that provide excellent value for money without compromising on essential features.
Performance Test for Standard 1080P Quality
To know the reliability, we rigorously tested each dash camera’s performance, with a special emphasis on their video quality at the standard 1080P resolution. Our aim was to ensure that only cameras with clear, sharp, and detailed recordings made it into our recommendations. As drivers ourselves, we know how crucial it is to have high-quality footage that can serve as reliable evidence in case of accidents or incidents on the road.
By taking these personalized steps in our testing process, we are confident that the dash cameras we recommend are not only technically proficient but also tailored to suit your preferences and needs. Your satisfaction and safety are our top priorities, and we hope our efforts make your decision-making process smoother and more enjoyable. Drive safe!
Why You Should Choose a Small Dash Cam Over Regular Size
While regular-sized dash cameras may be effective, there are several compelling reasons why opting for a smaller model can be advantageous:
- Discreetness: The primary advantage of small dash cams is their discreet size, allowing them to be neatly tucked away behind the rear vision mirror or in a corner of the windshield. This subtlety reduces the risk of theft and eliminates distractions for the driver.
- Cute Aesthetics: Smaller dash cams blend effortlessly with the car’s interior, making them less noticeable to passengers and reducing the chances of tampering.
- Compact Installation: The smaller form factor of these dash cameras simplifies the installation process, often requiring minimal wiring and reducing clutter.
- Enhanced Safety: Large dash cameras might obstruct the driver’s view, potentially compromising safety. Smaller models ensure an unobstructed field of vision.
Smallest Dash Cam Vs Regular Dash Cam
Criteria | Smallest Dash Cam | Regular Dash Cam |
---|---|---|
Size | Less than 3 inches small | Larger than 4 inches and big |
Installation | Easy with fewer cables | Addons increase cables and connections |
Aesthetics | Blends seamlessly, unnoticeable | Bulky and large with a noticeable design |
View obstruction | Minimal risk, Hidden, and Discreet | Potential view obstruction, Attention grabber |
Wireless | Mostly rely on WiFi | Mostly rely on cable connection |
When it comes to dash cameras, the smallest ones stand out as an excellent choice due to their discreetness, aesthetic appeal, ease of installation, and overall affordability. These compact devices ensure you have a reliable eyewitness on the road without sacrificing style or safety.
Video Review of Best Smallest Dash Cam
- Latest Posts by Ben Wells
-
Best High Temperature Dash Cam
- -
Best Mirror Dash Cam UK
- -
Best Dual Dash Cam under £100
- All Posts