If you struggle to reverse your vehicle into tight spaces, a backup camera is the perfect solution. Reversing cameras come in a range of formats from mirror mounted to wired straight into the back of stereo systems.
The best Backup Camera for all vehicles is the AUTO-VOX T2 Backup Camera Kit that attaches to the rear view mirror and has a camera attached to the rear license plate.
Features such as night vision, wide angle views and HD quality are highly desirable and there is a range of backup cameras to choose from based upon your budget.
Best Reversing Cameras
| Backup Cameras | Type | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| AUTO-VOX T2 | Rear View Mirror | 4.9 |
| ZEROXCLUB | Wireless | 4.8 |
| SVTCAM SV-928WF | Wireless/Smartphone | 4.8 |
| Nakita | Stereo | 4.8 |
| Chuanganzhuo | Monitor | 4.7 |
Many modern cars or car owners with aftermarket double din stereos can benefit from an in-dash display. However, before you assume that it will work straight away, ensure that the double din stereo has an output for a reverse camera.
On-dash or rear view mirrors are very popular for all vehicles included RV’s but require wiring just like the stereo system camera setup. If you do not want to do any wiring whatsoever, there is a wireless option apart from the power source.
Adding a reversing camera to assist with your parking or overall driving is an excellent investment and worth the money. Below is a list of the best backup cameras that offer intuitive features and value for money.
AUTO-VOX T2 Backup Camera Kit
The Auto Vox T2 is the best rear view mirror backup camera you can buy that includes an LED night vision camera for a clear sight of vision. It is designed to be very similar to the majority of OEM mirrors so that it can blend in easily.
The mirror itself is universal and suitable for the majority of cars. It is also very clever with a brightness sensor, brightness adjustment button and an indicator. It can be installed fairly simply with just one wire to complete the installation and you can then begin reversing with ease.
Overall, the Auto Vox T2 has an easy installation without a large amount of wires going in all different directions and power sources. It also doesn’t need to take up any room within your dashboard because it will connect straight to your rear view mirror.
Check it OutZEROXCLUB Wireless Backup Camera System
For the owners of large vehicles such as trucks, RVs and others, you will have plenty of room of the dash for something a bit special. The Zeroxclub wireless reversing monitor has a 7 inch LCD screen that displays crisps footage.
This backup camera uses 18 infrared lights, CMSOS sensor and HD image processor to provide high quality video. Installation is simple and the unit powers up via the cigarette lighter (12/24V) and it will automatically turn on and switch to rear view camera when reversing.
Overall, it is the best backup camera for RVs and other large vehicles with the benefits of being wireless for an easy installation. In terms of video quality, the viewing angle is 140 degree with 960 x 576 resolution, which is output onto the monitor.
Check it OutSVTCAM SV-928WF Smartphone Reverse Camera
The latest backup camera by SVTCAM has the ability to connect to your smartphone via a wireless connection and their free application on both iPhone and Android. The wireless connection has a signal range of 100 feet within open area, which is more than enough for all vehicles on the road.
It is the cheapest wireless reversing camera that requires very little installation apart from mounting the camera on the rear of your vehicle. The camera itself is rated as IP69 in terms of waterproofing and is excellent during the dark winter months with 28 PCS IR LEDs.
Overall, this is the best wireless reversing camera for the money but only if you do not want a screen. The ability to only watch the real time reversing footage on a smartphone may put some people off but to others, it is the greatest invention yet.
Check it OutNATIKA Backup Camera For Stereos
If you have just ordered a double din stereo with reversing camera and you notice the quality is not very good, simply upgrade it to the Natika backup camera. Using the latest camera technology, it uses a HD 600TVL image sensor and 170 degree super wide viewing angle lens for clear vision.
The installation requires connecting the camera to a suitable location at the rear, connecting the power wire to the backup camera and then using the RCA video cable to the stereo or external monitor.
It is a fully waterproof backup camera with excellent high quality footage and 2 years warranty. You cannot complain at the reasonable price too and overall it is the best backup camera for a double din stereo.
Check it OutChuanganzhuo Backup Camera and Monitor Kit
For those looking for the cheapest backup camera to wire into your vehicle, the Chuanganzhuo is the best buy. The monitor is 4.3 inches and supports a 12V power source and comes with 1 years warranty.
The monitor itself can support a range of video inputs from the camera itself to DVD players and much more. When you are reversing, this backup camera will automatically display the video, which is pretty impressive for such as cheap unit.
Other features include IP68 waterproof rating, night vision, sun shade and much more. It is the best cheap reversing camera that comes with warranty for peace of mind.
Check it OutCar Reversing Cameras Buying Guide
Car Reversing Cameras ensure and improve vehicle safety. They help ward off occurrences like hitting that passerby while reversing and can serve as an evidence for you in court cases, and so on.
Reversing Cameras are gradually becoming a legal requirement. In the US, steps are in place to make it a legal requirement on every newly sold or leased vehicle. However, for those who own vehicles already, there are available reverse cameras you can buy.
Types of Reversing Cameras
Knowing the three types of reversing cameras available will really help you in making a good choice.
Surface mounted reversing camera: Made to be mounted mostly high up. Could also be placed on any flat surface. It is ideal for large vehicles as it provides an exceptional view.
License mounted reversing cameras: Installation process for this type is quite easy. It requires no modifications or new hole drilling. It is to be mounted on the already available license plate hole. The camera can be positioned close to the road or off-center.
Flush mounted cameras: This gives a nice appearance because it is mounted through a hole in the vehicle’s body. The only thing that can be seen is the lens and bezel. This camera does not provide depth as the surface mount will.
Factors to Consider
- Field of view
- Audio monitor
- Activeness in low light/night vision
- Monitor type
- Mirror image
- Wired or wireless
- Viewing angle
- Weatherproof
- Image sensors
- Automatic power on
- Automotive power supply
- Mounting style
Field of View
Just like a camera works, the size of the sensor determines the quality of the image you will get. The sensor also determines how well it will perform in low light plus how wide the field of view will be.
While purchasing your reversing camera, do not settle for less than 90-degree field of view. That is the minimum you should accept. Anything lesser might not work well for its purpose. However, 120-degree field view seems to be the best you want to go for.
Although there are others as big as 180, 210 degrees, these mostly give you what you will get through a fisheye lens. I’m sure you do not want that because it is impossible to reverse with such effect.
Audio monitor
If you wish to have a camera with attached microphone, there are many available ones in the market. Those without a microphone are not bad. It depends on your choice and needs.
Nightvision
You should go for a reverse camera that can enhance its pictures even in darkness. There are many cameras that have infrared LED lights which makes it possible to give you a picture even in total darkness. Hence, do not go for a camera without this function since you are not limited. However, do not expect to see long distance coverage. You can get about 30 feet coverage.
Monitor Type
Do not settle for less. Do not make the mistake of going for a CRT monitor. I mean who uses such when there are a lot of LCD (liquid crystal display) monitors out there. Talk of the TFT-LCD, it gives you the most quality. This should be your target. But the LCD screens aren’t bad, they give quality too. They are not just as good as the TFT-LCD.
Screen sizes are available up to 10 inches. Though the size depends on your choice, why will you go for anything less than 5 inches? However, a screen might not be needed if your car comes with an inbuilt SatNav unit. Some cars have it these days. But compatibility with your camera is very important.
Mirror image: It is advisable you go for a monitor that can reverse view in order for the view to appear like it will on a rear mirror. Sometimes this comes as an option in cameras.
Wired or wireless: While wireless reverse cameras were made so to reduce the process of wiring your camera to the monitor, it sometimes gives the annoying outcome. The quality of the wired and the wireless are different. With the wireless, you might get stripes on your screen.
Desirable Features
- Viewing angle: Reversing Cameras give a horizontal view generally. While some are quite expandable to 190 degrees.
- Weatherproof: Be it under the sun, rain, snow, or any weather condition, your camera should still be able to work properly. The camera and its wiring are always exposed to the weather. Be sure you go for a reversing camera that is made for outdoor use. Those otherwise will get bad quick if used outdoor; do not buy a household camera.
Image Sensors
Sensors serve the purpose of converting light into signals. This is achieved in two ways, through CCD and CMOS. While CCD is analog, CMOS, on the other hand, is digital.
The advantage CCD sensor has is that it handles fluctuating lighting situations better than the other does. While CMOS sensor tends to be better in low light and draws less power than a CCD sensor. However, a difference may occur. It depends on the types of environments you ply. Yet, both are good as none of the two can be said to be better.
Camera and Monitor Power
Automatic power on: Most reversing Cameras has the ability to power at once you start your car. You should not be going through the process of turning on the camera each time you enter the car. You will even forget to sometimes. Make sure you buy the one with this feature for your convenience.
Automotive power supply: Be sure to know what type of power your camera unit requires to work. Most cars require 12V to work while some require 24V. You certainly need a voltage regulator or filter to ensure durability.
Camera Mounting
Before selecting a camera you need to check the rear of your vehicle. Mounting can be done in different ways.
- Mounting on a licensed plate: Some cameras are designed to fit on the plate of the license plate. Some go with a strap mount- the widely used approach. This can be fastened over the strap mount with the use of screws.
- Bracket mounting: With this mounting style, you can mount your camera anywhere you feel comfortable with. It provides an adjustable bracket.
- Lip mounting: With an infix area on your car rear, you should be able to use an angled lip mount camera.
- Vehicle-specific mounting: This comes with some brands. They provide brackets that can fit into factory parts that will match your vehicle. These ones are specialized as most mounting types come as the previous options.
Installing your reversing camera can be done on your own without the use of a professional. What you need to do is install the camera in the rear of your car. After that, you should wire it for power.
From the camera to your car dash, you will need to run a video connection. Then the video cable should be connected to the input of a compatible monitor or stereo. Connecting to the monitor requires installation. To connect to the stereo, you will need to remove the stereo from the dash and reinstall.
Although a wireless reversing camera will reduce the time you will spend on installation, but remember you will still go through wiring the camera and the monitor when connecting to the power source.
Conclusion
A reverse camera stands to give you a whole lot of benefits. You might feel you do not need it but it often comes in handy. However, to get the best out of your reversing camera, you need to look out for the best.
Going for a good one that will last you long is the best choice to make. In order for you not to make the wrong camera Choice, I have put this article together for you and I do hope you have learned from it.
The post 5 Best Rear Backup Cameras For Reversing 2018 appeared first on Pro Car Reviews.
